《Immortal of the Nine Realms》


 Chapter 1: I’ve Once Met a Fairy

    Chapter 1: I¡¯ve Once Met a Fairy


    The Great Xia Country was a grade-9 state, but their crushing defeat to the Greenpine Country at the Three Realms Mountain had greatly weakened them. Many unfair uses were imposed on them, resulting in widespread unhappiness amongst the people.


    From the nobles and officials down to the civilians, there was one person they cursed and swore atthe young master of General Fang Manor, Fang Chen!


    Five years ago, Fang Chen had be the number one expert of Great Xia despite only being eighteen years of age. He was a brilliant strategist excelling in offense, and he had never tasted defeat since bing amander. As such, he was known as the Great Xias War God.


    Yet, 600,000 of the 800,000 soldiers Fang Chen had brought to the Three Realms Mountain to attack the Greenpine Country had died. He even had his eyes blinded and his ki sea destroyed, thus reducing him to a cripple.


    In the majestic General Manor, a young man with sharp eyebrows quietly gazed at the sky. He still gave off a faint air of enigma that made it hard for one to see through him.


    In truth, he could hardly see anything at all with his grayish-white eyes.


    Five years ago, he had led his army to subdue the Greenpine Countrys First Wolf Marshall. It should have been an easy victory, but the tables were turned when the Greenpine Country brought in an expert from a grade-8 country to ambush him.


    He was defeated. His ki sea was shattered, reducing him to a cripple.


    As he teetered on the brink of death, he saw a fairy gazing upon a world amidst the zing sun. The fairy saw him too, and a brilliant light enveloped him. Since then, he has been blind.


    The First Wolf Marshall chose to let him go instead of killing him, saying, Youll know what it means to live a life worse than death once you return to the Great Xia. This will be the worst torture to you.


    And over the past five years, he had suffered loads of curses and humiliation. Those who used to be on good terms with him also avoided him as if he was venomous.


    Second sister, you should be eighteen this year, right? Youre already of marriageable age, but youre still teasing your older brother? Fang Chen suddenly spoke up.


    Fang Zhixue, who had secretly crawled up till she was only a few steps away from Fang Chen, pouted in dissatisfaction. Big brother, how are you able to notice me every time? I have already reached the second stage of Human Profound, Ki Explosion!


    There were four stages to Human Profound, Ki Condensation, Ki Explosion, Ki Control, and Ki Manifestation.


    Those who had reached second stage Ki Explosion could already be considered experts in Great Xia, and those who went a step further and reached third stage Ki Control could even start their own sects.


    Fang Chen, with his unparalleled talent, had reached the fourth stage of Human Profound at just eighteen years old, bing the only Ki Manifestation expert in Great Xia!


    You were looking for me? Fang Chen asked.


    Big brother, His Majesty has bestowed a marriage upon you Fang Zhixues face suddenly sank.


    Why would His Majesty suddenly bestow a cripple like me with a marriage? Which young miss would be interested in me? Fang Chen chuckled. Something is amiss here.


    His Majesty wants you to marry into the Xiao n to ease our Great Xias rtionship with Greenpine Country. There have been suspicious movements from Greenpine Country in recent days, so His Majesty is worried. Fang Zhixues eyes reddened, and she tightly clenched her fists. Our father has already agreed to it


    Youre talking about Greenpine Countrys number one n, the Xiao n where Wolf Marshall Xiao is from? Fang Chen was taken aback, but he quicklyposed himself. Why? I am a mere cripple. I dont think I am of any value to the Xiao n. Moreover, I used to be Wolf Marshall Xiaos nemesis.


    It was proposed by the Xiao ns first young miss. She said that she had met countless men, but she wants to have a taste of Great Xias ex-War God. She threatened His Majesty to bestow you to her, or else Greenpine Country will invade us, and this time around, they wont stop until they reach our capital, Fang Zhixue quietly replied.


    My enemys daughter wants me to marry into her n? Hahaha Fang Chenughed softly.


    Fang Zhixue anxiously urged, Big brother, lets escape. Ill bring you to the remote mountains. They wont be able to find us there.


    Second sister, what will happen to our Fang n if I escape? Do you think His Majesty will spare our n? Fang Chen shook his head. Im a mere cripple. Itd be worth it if my useless body can buy a few years for Great Xia. There might be an opportunity for us to turn the tables or at least protect ourselves from Greenpine Country.


    Big brother, do you know how the officials and the popce have insulted you over thest five years? How can you side with them even now? Even shop assistants and servants have been humiliating you behind your back. Is it worth doing this for them? It infuriated Fang Zhixue just thinking about it.


    Theres you, father, mother, and people like them. Id have done it just for your sake. Not to mention there are innocent children who dont know anything and havent insulted me at all. Fang Chen waved his hand. Give me some time to myself.


    Fang Zhixue let out a sigh before leaving. She knew her big brothers temper. He wouldnt change his mind once he had made his decision.


    Fang Chen continued gazing at the sky with his dull grayish-white eyes. It was unfortunate he had never met that fairy again after that momentary nce. He wanted to get to the bottom of it, especially why he had gained the ability to draw his soul out of his body after that day.


    Before he knew it, his soul had already drifted out of his body and was gazing over the capital from the sky. He could hear the merryughter in the imperial pce, the shouting vendors on the streets, and everything around him.


    He saw martial artists from Greenpine Country acting wilfully on Great Xias streets, beating up the civilians as they deemed fit. Even officials would be viciously beaten up for talking back to them.


    He could see the rage seething in the civilians, the sorrow reflected in the soldiers eyes, and the indignant faces of the officials.


    Haha, your Great Xia is useless! Make sure to address us, those from Greenpine Country, as milord, or else our First Wolf Marshall will trample over your capital with his army and drag your emperor down from his imperial throne!


    Theughter of Greenpine Countrys martial artists evoked the resentment, anger, and also helplessness of the civilians.


    Oh? What a coincidence to bump into a fellow daoist astral traveling in such a small country, a surprised voice suddenly echoed behind Fang Chen.


    rmed, Fang Chen quickly turned around and saw a half-transparent daoist floating in mid-air. The other party was assessing him with curious eyes.


    Fang Chens heart jolted. For five years his soul had wandered in the sky, but never had anyone noticed him or talked to him. He sped his fist and greeted the other party, A good day to you, daoist. How should I address you?


    <em>It should be right to call the other party a daoist since he addressed me as such.</em>

 Chapter 2: Forging the Immortal Vein in a Day

    Chapter 2: Forging the Immortal Vein in a Day


    I am Daoist Cloudcrane from the Center Continent Country. Daoist, were you passing by this ce too?


    Center Continent Country?! Fang Chens heart shook.


    He had long heard about the Center Continent Country. It was said to be a true grade-1 state, with vast territories and countless experts. However, he had never met anyone from the Center Continent Country, and there were even ims that the Center Continent Country was a myth!


    Wait a moment, theres something weird about your soul Hm? Youre astral projecting with a soul and not a Nascent Spirit? Daoist Cloudcrane was startled.


    He raised his palm and struck Fang Chen. Thetter tried to avoid the attack, but before he knew it, his soul had already returned to its body.


    Youre a mortal?! How unusual. How could a mere mortals soul be so rich as to be able to astral project? Daoist Cloudcrane eximed.


    Fang Chen calmly sped his fist toward a certain direction and said, Elder, I am merely a martial artist with a crushed ki sea. Im sorry to have disappointed you.


    Disappointed me? Hahaha, how could I be disappointed? I never thought Id stumble upon a fine jade like you just as I was about to return from my hundred years journey. It must be fate. Someone with a rich soul like yours is born for immortal cultivation. Daoist Cloudcrane burst intoughter.


    He was astral projecting with his Nascent Soul, and he had limited his voice so that only Fang Chen could hear him. The others in the General Manor couldnt notice him.


    Immortal cultivation? Elder, are there really immortals in this world? Fang Chen was startled. He couldnt help but remember the fairy amidst the zing sun he had seen five years ago.


    Youre from a grade-9 state; its no wonder you have never seen a cultivator before. I dont know whether there are immortals in this world, but Id say your people would deem someone with my means as an immortal, Daoist Cloudcrane said. I want to take you in as my personal disciple. Are you interested?


    Fang Chen fell silent for a few seconds. I cant cultivate. My ki sea has been crippled.


    Ki sea? Thats only a thing for you martial artists. Us cultivators dont forge a ki sea. If Im not mistaken, you martial artists have three realmsHuman Profound, Earth Profound, and Heaven Profoundand each realm is further divided into four stages, right?


    Theres no such thing for us cultivators. Instead, we have Ki Refinement, Foundation Establishment, Golden Core, and Nascent Soul. Your Heaven Profound expert barely rivals our pinnacle Ki Refinement cultivator, Daoist Cloudcrane proudly said.


    Fang Chens heart was shaken up by what he was hearing.


    I need to rush back to the Center Continent Country to resolve some matters. Ill bring you with me if youre willing to take me as your master, Daoist Cloudcrane urged.


    <em>Ill have to head to the Center Continent Country? </em>Fang Chen smiled bitterly as he bowed with a sped fist, saying, Im afraid I cant leave this ce at the moment.


    <em>Whod clean up the mess here if I leave? My father is getting old, and my grandfather is in a life-and-death training seclusion. My second uncle has sustained severe traumas serving the Great Xia over the past five years, such that he has be wheelchair-bound. </em>


    Youre reluctant toe with me? Whats there to miss in this shabby ce? Come with me, and I guarantee youll reach Golden Core within a hundred years. By then, you can return here whenever you wish to, Daoist Cloudcrane said.


    My parents are here; Im afraid its not convenient for me to travel far. I have to stay behind to clean up some mess. Im sorry to disappoint you, elder. Fang Chen sighed.


    Tsk tsk. Daoist Cloudcrane eyed Fang Chen. Theres no one in the world who doesnt envy immortals. Other people would crawl to the Center Continent Country with a broken leg for an opportunity to be my personal disciple, but you actually turned me down.


    My sect has strict rules. Personal disciples have to cultivate in the sect. I wont be able to take you as my personal disciple if you refuse toe with me. Ahh, but its such a waste of your excellent talent!


    How about this? Ill first impart to you our Three Thousand Dao Gates entry cultivation method, which means that youll be our sects external disciple from this day onward. You can begin your cultivation here. However, youll have to visit our sect and officially join our ranks once you reach Foundation Establishment.


    Daoist Cloudcrane raised his hand and smacked a bundle of light into Fang Chens forehead.


    Fang Chen immediately sensed a stream of information rushing into his head. The information interweaved with one another to form a gleaming golden manualThree Thousand Dao Initiate Manual.


    His interest was piqued. He opened the book and immersed himself in the cultivation method.


    Unknowingly, the surrounding spirit ki began converging into his body. His body had be deficient after years of not practicing any martial arts, but the nourishment of the spirit ki healed up his deficiencies and reinforced his vitality.


    The spirit ki soon reached his tattered ki sea, but they continued circting instead of settling there.


    The moon slowly faded, as the sun rose from the eastern horizon.


    Fang Chen had stood unmovingly for a day now.


    The servants and maids in the General Manor gossiped about it amongst themselves. It was only when Fang Zhixue arrived that they hurriedly shut their mouths.


    Big brother has been standing there from yesterday till now?! Fang Zhixue eximed in astonishment.


    Ey Your big brother is a proud man. He must be feeling indignant about having to marry into the Xiao n. A middle-aged man sighed as he looked at Fang Chens upright posture. He felt apologetic to thetter.


    He was the patriarch of the Fang n, Fang Canghai. As a third stage Ki Control expert, he should have been able to retain his youth, but his sideburns were already snowy white despite being only forty years of age. His wrinkles were also increasing with each passing day.


    Father, cant we turn His Majesty down? Big brother will live a fate worse than death if he goes to Greenpine Country! Fang Zhixue cried.


    Greenpine Country has grown stronger over thest five years, whereas our Great Xia has been weakening with each passing day. Wolf Marshall Xiao has already spoken on behalf of his daughter; he demanded Fang Chen marry into the Xiao n, or hell lead his troops over to crush our capital. Those words are neither a joke nor a brag. Great Xia is hanging on a thread. We have no choice. Great Xia might at least still stand a chance if we ept their demand Fang Canghai said with reddened eyes.


    Is our aunt unable to do anything about it? Fang Zhixue asked.


    Your aunt might be the empress, but her hands are tied. She has to prioritize Great Xia here. Theres nothing she can do. Fang Canghai shook his head. Wolf Marshall Xiaos daughter will be arriving in the capital with her people tomorrow. Your big brother will have to deal with her. Go and advise your big brother to get some rest.


    Meanwhile, a pristine immortal vein had formed inside Fang Chen. All of the spirit ki flowing inside him found their belonging and surged into the immortal vein.


    The twelve stages of Ki Refinement was centered around forging ones immortal vein. With the creation of the first pulse, Fang Chen officially joined the ranks of the immortal cultivators.


    Forging the immortal vein in a single day? Your talent is indeed impressive! Remember to register with our Three Thousand Dao Gate once you reach Foundation Establishment! Daoist Cloudcrane said before vanishing into thin air.


    Fang Chen woke up from his trance. He bowed in the direction of the disappeared Daoist Cloudcrane with a heart filled with gratitude. Daoist Cloudcrane had not just changed his fate but the fates of countless lives in Great Xia!

 Chapter 3: Great Xia’s Shadow Guards

    Chapter 3: Great Xia¡¯s Shadow Guards


    Whats wrong with big brother?! Fang Zhixue was dumbstruck. She couldnt understand why Fang Chen was bowing toward empty space.


    The servants had weird looks in their eyes too, as they didnt understand what Fang Chen was up to.


    Fang Canghai sighed softly before calling out, Chener.


    Father, what brings you here? Fang Chen turned around to look at Fang Canghai.


    For an instant, the crowd thought they saw a glimmer of light in Fang Chens dull eyes, but they shrugged it off as Fang Chen had already been blind for five years.


    Im worried. You have stood here for a day now. Feel free to speak whatevers on your mind. Fang Canghai gritted his teeth. No matter what, Ill do my best to help you!


    Father, do you think Im worried about marrying into the Xiao n? Fang Chen smiled.


    Isnt that the reason you have stood here for an entire day? Fang Canghai was surprised.


    Its not because of that. I have thought things through, so father, you dont have to worry about me. Ill deal with it myself, Fang Chen shook his head and replied. He then sped his fist and said, Ill be taking my leave first.


    Father, what do you think big brother has thought about? Fang Zhixue asked while staring at Fang Chens departing silhouette.


    Your big brother is a wise man. His thought process is different from ordinary people like us. Perhaps, he might have already found a solution to this quandary. A glint shed across Fang Canghais eyes.


    His son had never made empty ims before. He could be trusted to properly deal with a matter if he chose to take it up. The only time he had stumbled was for that battle in the Three Realms Mountain five years ago.


    Themon popce might not know better, but he was well aware that things only went out of control due to the intervention of an expert from a grade-8 state.


    What other means does Chener have? Does he intend to rely on those people? But his ki sea has been crushed. He might have raised those people, but they dont have the power to turn the situation around too Fang Canghai fell into deep thought.


    He was so absorbed in his thoughts that he didnt hear Fang Zhixue shouting for him. In the end, thetter stomped off.


    Fang Chen left the General Manor with his eyes shut, but he was able to walk like anyone else. He was exceptionally sensitive toward his surroundings. It was a power he obtained after going blind, or to be exact, it was from witnessing the fairy in the zing sun.


    He could clearly map out everything around him even without astral projecting.


    War God Fang is out for a walk again.


    Hah! Our Great Xia has been mocked and humiliated by Greenpine Country for five years now, but War God Fang is still in the mood toe out and have a sip of tea. Its as if he is unfazed by this. Does he have no sense of shame?


    600,000 of our soldiers are buried in the Three Realms Mountain, and he still has the mood to take a walk and drink tea. I dont even know what to say.


    The passers-by pointed their fingers at Fang Chen and furiously berated him.


    Yo, isnt this our War God Fang? Thats not right. In a few days time, all the martial artists from our Greenpine Country will have to call you young master!


    A few brawny men draped in beastskin suddenly blocked Fang Chens path. The leader looked at Fang Chen with eyes dripping with disdain. Only the martial artists from Greenpine Country were fond of wearing such beastskin clothes.


    The nearby civilians quickly backed away. There was a hint of resentment when they looked at the brawny men, but they dared not express it.


    What are those Greenpine Countrys martial artists talking about?


    Why would they call War God Fang young master? Whats going on?


    The crowd muttered amongst themselves.


    Wearing the nearby murmurs, the leader of the Greenpine Countrys martial artists gleefully spoke with a loud voice, You havent heard yet? Our Wolf Marshall Xiao has already requested a betrothal from your emperor. Soon, your War God Fang will be marrying into the Xiao n. His bride will be none other than the First Wolf Marshalls beloved daughter, Celestial Xiao!


    <em>Fang Chen is marrying Celestial Xiao?</em>


    Boom!


    The shaken-up crowd stared at Fang Chen in disbelief.


    Youre talking nonsense! War God Fang would never marry into the Xiao n! an enraged schr bellowed with a reddened face.


    You lowly schr dare use me of lying? You must be out of your mind!


    The Greenpine Countrys martial artist walked up to the schr, grabbed him by his clothes, and gave him twelve tight ps that left thetters brain ringing.


    Fang Chens expression flickered. The crowd was seething, but no one dared to act up.


    After striking the schr, the Greenpine Countrys martial artist pointed his finger at Fang Chen and said, Ask your War God yourself if you dont believe me. See if Im lying or not!


    W-War God Fang, please tell us they are lying! How can you marry into the Xiao n? Despite being struck till his cheeks were swollen up and his mouth was seeping blood, the schr stared expectantly at Fang Chen as if hoping that thetter would refute it.


    The Xiao n has indeed requested a betrothal, Fang Chen replied.


    Weng!


    The schr had forced himself to remain on his feet despite having been struck twelve times, but Fang Chens words robbed him of his strength, and he fell on his bum with a dazed look.


    The surrounding Great Xia civilians were dumbfounded too.


    <em>What hope do we have if even our ex-War God marries into the Xiao n?</em>


    Hahaha! Hahahaha! The world wants our Great Xia to end! Our Great Xia is doomed! The schr burst into frenziedughter as he uttered sphemous words, but not a person stopped him.


    Who says our Great Xia is doomed? The world has to ask me for permission first, Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    The schr was stunned. He stared at Fang Chen in uncertainty.


    Fang Chen didnt say anything more. Instead, he turned to the Greenpine Countrys martial artist and asked, Whats your name?


    The world has to ask you for permission? What arrogance. Heh, I am He Longsheng. Young master, do you need me for anything? the Greenpine Countrys martial artist sneered.


    He Longsheng? Fang Chen walked up to the martial artist.


    The Greenpine Countrys martial artists immediately prepared to make a move, but Fang Chen suddenly opened his eyes and revealed his grayish-white eyes. His eyes contained some sort ofpelling authority that caused the martial artists to freeze up.


    He Longsheng suddenly felt a sharp pain in his right ear.


    Fang Chen had plucked off his right ear with his bare hands! He casually tossed the bloodied ear aside before smiling at He Longsheng. Youll be the first one to be in when I pick up my de once more.


    With that, he took his leave.


    Damn it! Damn it! He Longsheng clutched his ear white ring venomously at Fang Chens departing figure. He wanted to chase after Fang Chen, but he dared not do so.


    It was not just because Fang Chen was Great Xias War God, but that he would soon be the Xiao ns son-inw too!


    F-forget it, lets go! the other martial artists sheepishly said.


    When those fellows finally left, the swollen-faced schr looked at the bloodied ear on the ground and burst into heartyughter.


    Fang Chen took his walk, drank his tea, before making his way to a little courtyard located by the suburbs. The piled-up dust suggested that no one had been to this courtyard for a long time.


    He silently stood for a moment before abruptly saying, Youre here.


    Young master!


    Many pairs of agitated eyes stared at Fang Chen. Dozens of silhouettes had unknowingly appeared in the little courtyard. These people were dressed in different clothes; some were roadside vendors, some were schrs, some were dressed in extravagant dresses, and there was even one wearing a training uniform with a sword hanging by his waist.


    These people were Great Xias Shadow Guards, the secret weapons he had personally nurtured!

 Chapter 4: Purple Lightning Talisman

    Chapter 4: Purple Lightning Talisman


    How have you been doing in thest five years? Fang Chen turned to them and smiled.


    In truth, he had known how they were faring in the past five years. He had astral projected far too often that there were no secrets to him in Great Xias capital.


    Young master, we havent been well, someone said.


    Thats right, we havent been well. Theres nothing more we would like to do than to behead the ingrates who insult you, but you wouldnt allow us to do so.


    Young master, it has been five years since you havest been to this little courtyard. Is it time for us to be mobilized once more? someone asked.


    The faces of the crowd visibly lit up, and they looked at Fang Chen with expectant eyes.


    My martial cultivation is crippled. Are you willing toe under mymand despite this? You should know that any one of you can easily defeat me now, Fang Chen said.


    Young master, well be Great Xias loyal Shadow Guards as long as you are in need of us!


    A brawny man stepped forward and red at the crowd. He gave off an intimidating aura showing that he had reached the pinnacle of the second stage Ki Explosion of Human Profound. With his strength, he was easily a top expert in Great Xia.


    Xu Ge is right! Young master, its not because of your martial cultivation that we have chosen to serve you. If you give us the word, well willingly march up a mountain of des or descend into a sea of mes, another person spoke up.


    Their voices were hushed lest others eavesdrop on their conversation, but that didnt lessen the conviction behind their deration.


    Young master, Wolf Marshall Xiaos daughter will be arriving in the capital tomorrow. If we make a move, Im confident we can assassinate her with a casualty of 30%, someone sneered.


    Looks like you havent been idling around. You have even heard about that. Fang Chens lips crept up. However, you seem to have forgotten that the Guard in Great Xias Shadow Guards means to protect. You are guards, not assassins. I dont need you to kill people on my behalf. The only thing you have to do is to protect Great Xia. Itd be a waste of your talents to be assassins.


    Young master, what should we do? Xu Ge asked with a suppressed voice.


    I came here with the intent to mobilize you, but for the time being, you should patiently bide your time. I dont need you to make a move yet. Xu Ge, stay behind. The rest of you return to wherever you came from. Send a message to those who are currently out of the capital too, Fang Chen ordered.


    The crowd was startled, but they were too used to unconditionally obeying Fang Chens orders that they gloomily dispersed despite their reluctance.


    Young master, do you have any orders for me? Xu Ge asked with a face brimming with excitement.


    I need a weasel hair brush, top-tier cinnabar, and top-tier yellow talisman paper. Also, the Shadow Courtyard has gotten dirty, so its about time to clean it up, Fang Chen said.


    Xu Ge was taken aback before nodding. Give me a moment, young master. Ill buy the items you have requested right now.


    Around an hourter, Xu Ge returned with the items in hand. He rolled up his sleeves and began cleaning the courtyard while curiously eyeing Fang Chen. To his confusion, thetter lifted the brush and drew on the yellow talisman paper.


    Young master is drawing talismans? I thought he couldn''t see Forget it, it hurts my head just to think about it. He must have his reasons behind this. Xu Ge decided not to ponder about the matter and instead focus on cleaning up.


    To him, the reactivation of their Shadow Courtyard was already something worth celebrating. There was no need to fuss about the details for now!


    There are four talismans in the Three Thousand Dao Initiate Manual, of which, the Flitting Talisman, the Protection Talisman, and the Strength Talisman are average grade-9 talismans. However, the fourth talisman in the manual, the Purple Lightning Talisman, is a grade-8 talisman with astounding prowess.


    Fang Chen quietly meditated as he looked at the drafts in front of him. When he felt that he was ready to give it a go, he began channeling the spirit ki within him.


    Only talismans drawn with spirit ki would be effective.


    Fang Chens goal for today was to draw a Purple Lightning Talisman. He was no longer a martial artist but a cultivator. To turn the tables on Greenpine Country, he would require powerful means to intimidate them.


    He thought that it shouldnt be too difficult for him to draw a Purple Lightning Talisman as he tried drafting it a couple times earlier, but now that he was channeling his spirit ki, as soon as his brush fell on the talisman, the spirit ki in him reduced by half.


    It was only then he realized drawing talismans required a huge amount of spirit ki.


    He tried toplete the talisman in a single swoop in hopes that he had enough spirit ki for it, but not only did his spirit ki quickly deplete, but he also lost control of the weasel hair brush too. He had wanted it to pull it leftward, but it swiped rightward instead.


    With this, he failed his first talisman.


    Drawing talismans isnt easy, Fang Chen murmured.


    To his surprise, his depleted spirit ki swiftly recovered. He knew that this couldnt have been normal. Could it be that my spirit ki recovers faster than normal due to my rich soul?


    With a chuckle, he focused his attention on drawing the Purple Lightning Talisman.


    The sky soon turned dark, but this didnt hinder Fang Chen as he couldnt see in the first ce. ced on the table in front of him were over a hundred failed talismans.


    Xu Ge was done cleaning the Shadow Courtyard and was currently standing in the shadows, quietly guarding Fang Chen. How much more time is the young master going to spend on drawing his talismans? Wolf Marshall Xiaos daughter will be arriving in the capital tomorrow!


    Xu Ge was nervous.


    Im almost there. This one should work.


    Fang Chen picked up another talisman paper. Over his hundred failures, he had slowly grasped the technique to draw the Purple Lightning Talisman. It was fortunate his spirit ki recovered fast. He had depleted his spirit ki countless times over the course of the day, but it swiftly healed up every time.


    On top of that, he realized that his spirit ki capacity would increase each time he expended his spirit ki. Just today, he had already increased his spirit ki capacity by around 20% to 30%.


    At this rate, it wouldnt be long before he forged his second immortal vein and advanced to the second stage of Ki Refinement.


    Fang Chen might not be able to see, but his spirit ki-infused brush flew fluidly across the yellow talisman paper, infusing it with an immortals aura.


    Time slowly ticked by.


    As he finished up his final stroke, the lightning element spirit ki in the surroundings furiously surged into the Purple Lightning Talisman, and a lightning bolt seemed to sh across the dark room.


    Lightning?! Am I seeing things?! Xu Ge immediately straightened his posture, as he rubbed his eyes in disbelief. The courtyard remained as peaceful as before.


    Yet, he was certain he had seen a sh of lightning earlier. <em>Am I seeing things?</em>


    What concentrated lightning spirit ki this is! Ive finallypleted a Purple Lightning Talisman! A smile finally emerged on Fang Chens impassive face.


    He could draw a Purple Lightning Talisman in an hour. There was around nine hours before daybreak, so he should be able to finish up around eight to nine more talismans.

 Chapter 5: Celestial Xiao

    Chapter 5: Celestial Xiao


    Fang Chen didnt know that the Purple Lightning Talisman, which had be extremely easy for him to draw, was a huge hurdle for other Ki Refinement cultivators to ovee.


    The Purple Lightning Talisman was tooplicated; the slightest mistake could result in failure. However, the worst thing of all was the consumption of spirit ki.


    Ordinary Ki Refinement cultivators would deplete their spirit ki after failing a couple times, and it would take them several days before they fully recovered their spirit ki. It would take them a few months to umte a hundred attempts at drawing the Purple Lightning Talisman.


    In fact, there were some who had failed a thousand times but were still unable toplete a single Purple Lightning Talisman. It was a formidable grade-8 talisman, after all.


    If Daoist Cloudcrane was here, he would have been astounded by the sight before him.


    Nine Purple Lightning Talismans were ced neatly in front of Fang Chen, and he was busy drawing the tenth one. It was as if the concept of fatigue didnt apply to him. The more he used his spirit ki, the more spirit ki he had. The only thing hecked was time.


    By now, Xu Ge had already known that he wasnt seeing things. Each time Fang Chen finished a Purple Lightning Talisman, he would see a sh of lightning in the room.


    This world really has talismans! I thought it was just tricks chatans use to dupe others As expected of the young master! He has been working hard over thest five years! Xu Ge was exhrated.


    Thepletion of the tenth Purple Lightning Talisman induced the lightning phenomenon again. Fang Chen waited for the lightning spirit ki to gush into the talisman before stowing it away.


    Xu Ge, you have reached pinnacle Ki Explosion, and youre beginning to make a name for yourself in the capital. Have you considered doing something else one day? Fang Chen asked.


    Xu Ge panicked. His eyes reddened, and he cried despite his brawny physique, Young master, what have I done wrong? Why are you chasing me off?!


    When did I say Im chasing you off? Fang Chenughed.


    Xu Ge heaved a sigh of relief. What makes you say that then? Ill always be a Great Xia Shadow Guard!


    All of mymanders died in the battle five years ago. I need someone to stand with me at the forefront to help me deal with issues. This means that they wont be able to stay in the shadows anymore, Fang Chen said.


    As the name suggested, Great Xia Shadow Guards was a hidden organization that no one knew about, be it the emperor, the popce, or Greenpine Country, His father, Fang Canghai, had an inkling as to what was going on, but he only knew the tip of the iceberg.


    The Great Xia Shadow Guards had their own jobs; no one knew about their rtionship with Fang Chen. In the eyes of outsiders, they wereplete strangers with him.


    If Xu Ge stepped to the forefront, it would mean he was no longer a Great Xia Shadow Guard.


    Doesnt that mean I can stay by the young masters side all the time? Xu Ge gasped.


    Fang Chen nodded with a smile.


    Ill do it! Ill do it! Xu Ge excitedly eximed.


    The sun is about to rise, Lets return to the General Manor, Fang Chen said as he made his way out of the Shadow Courtyard.


    Xu Ge quickly followed him as he asked, Young master, how do you know the sun is about to rise? Can it be your eyes


    I still cant see anything, but there are things in this world that you dont need your eyes to see, Fang Chen replied with an enigmatic smile.


    Xu Ge didnt fully grasp those words. In the end, he said, Only the young master is capable of such a feat. I wouldnt even be able to walk properly if I had gone blind.


    In his eyes, Fang Chen was an indomitable existence whom he had to devote his entire life catching up to.


    Just as they left the Shadow Courtyard, a huge procession arrived in front of the gates of the Great Xias capital.


    There were more than a hundred people in this procession, and they were all riding on giant silver wolves that were almost as tall as grown men. Most of them were martial artists emitting strong murderous auras. Their movements were coordinated, and they were expressionless most of the time except for the brief moments they let their contempt slip.


    It was early in the morning, but the city gates were already opened. The soldiers were in position, and there was an endless stream of Great Xia civilians entering and leaving the city.


    The crowd was horrified when they saw the procession, and some even turned tail and fled.


    It was the legendary Wolf Army that had shed many times with Great Xia. Theirmander was none other than the Xiao ns Wolf Marshall Xiao, who was known to be the number one expert of Greenpine Country.


    Celestial Xiao is here!


    We wee Celestial Xiao!


    Some of the Greenpine Countrys martial artists heard the news and excitedly rushed over to pay their respect. These were the people who usually wreaked havoc in the capital, but they showed utmost respect toward the procession.


    The civilians of Great Xia felt conflicted and fearful about this.


    At the center of the Wolf Army, a woman who looked to be around eighteen years of age rode on a silver wolf boasting arger physique and a more dashing appearance. The woman had an exquisite face and long, slender legs. She had spirited eyes and copper skin that looked radiant under the morning rays. There was a faint smile on her lips as she looked at Great Xias capital.


    She was none other than the daughter of Wolf Marshall Xiao, Celestial Xiao!


    Just then, an army dressed in Great Xias uniform arrived. Upon seeing the Wolf Army, themander quickly turned to Fairy Xia and sped his fist. I am the vicemander of the West Tiger Barracks, You Longchang. I havee under imperial orders to wee Miss Xiao.


    You should have been waiting here from the very start, Celestial Xiao remarked.


    I haveete. Celestial Xiao, please pardon me, You Longchang suppressed his anger as he exined.


    Give him two ps, Celestial Xiao ordered.


    Boom!


    A person amidst the Wolf Army flitted up to You Longchang and gave him two tight ps before returning to his position. His movements were so fast that You Long Chang couldnt react at all.


    Ill pardon you now, Celestial Xiao said with a smile.


    The surroundings fell silent. You Longchangs face turned bright red, feeling utterly humiliated by the other party. The soldiers under hismand also trembled in anger.


    <em>How dare the Greenpine Countrys Wolf Army p our West Tiger Barracks vicemander in public?</em>


    Milord! A soldier couldnt take the humiliation and reached for his de.


    Dont make a rash move. The person who attacked me earlier has to be at least at third stage Ki Control. Also, Celestial Xiao is an important guest, as decreed by the imperial edict. Youll be executed if you dare offend her, You Longchang mumbled softly.


    He then turned to Celestial Xiao and sped his fist. Since Miss Xiao has pardoned me, I shant harp on the matter anymore. Your Majesty is waiting for you in the imperial court. If I may, Miss Xiao, please


    Inform General Fang Manor that Ill meet War God Fang Chen in the imperial court today. I have specially brought five bridal sedans here to carry him back. Celestial Xiao smiled.


    Rest assured, Miss Xiao. We have sent word to General Fang Manor. Youll meet Fang Chen in the imperial court, You Longchang replied heavily.


    Thats good. Lead the way, Celestial Xiao said cheerily.

 Chapter 6: Resounding Reputation

    Chapter 6: Resounding Reputation


    In General Fang Manor, Fang Canghai was seated at the main seat.


    On his left was a beautiful, middle-aged woman.


    On his right was a middle-aged man who shared some resemnce with Fang Canghai. He was seated in a wooden wheelchair, with a nket stitched out of fox skin draped over his legs.


    Big brother, sister-inw, I heard Celestial Xiao has entered the capital. Have you decided to have Chener marry into the Xiao n? the middle-aged man asked.


    Little uncle, I know you disagree with your big brothers decision. I feel terrible for Chener too. However, we have no choice, the beautiful, middle-aged woman said with a sigh of resignation. Our Great Xia doesnt have the means to rival the Greenpine Countrys 100,000-men strong Wolf Army. We have beennguishing since that fight five years ago, while Greenpine Country has been growing stronger. Its doubtful whether we can evenst a year if Wolf Marshall Xiao invades us with his army.


    We cant evenst a year? Hah The middle-aged man shook his head.


    Just then, Fang Zhixue entered the room and spoke with a suppressed voice, Father, mother, second uncle, big brother went out yesterday and hasnt returned yet Could he have left?


    Its not like you dont know your big brothers temper. Hed directly confront Wolf Marshall Xiao if thetter came, so theres no way hed fear thetters daughter, the middle-aged man said. Chener probably left Great Xia temporarily to settle some issues.


    Indeed. Fang Canghai and his wife nodded in agreement. They knew their son well too.


    Sometimes, they would rather Fang Chen escape to a ce where no one could find him. As for the consequences of that, they didnt want to think too much into it.


    Unfortunately, Fang Chen was not the type to shirk his responsibilities.


    Old master, someone from the imperial court is here, a servant rushed into the room and reported.


    A group from the imperial court was waiting outside the General Manor. Heading the group was a eunuch dressed in silk. He stood upright while holding a yellow imperial edict in his hands.


    Fang Canghai rushed out of the manor. Upon seeing the eunuch, he immediately sped his fist and said, Official Fang Canghai is here to receive the imperial edict.


    The eunuch slowly eyed the Fang nsmen one by one before frowning. Wheres young master Fang? This imperial edict is for him. How dare he not receive it?


    Fang Canghais expression tensed up. He squeezed out a smile and said, Eunuch You, Chener is currently not in the manor. Allow me to receive the imperial edict on his behalf.


    Eunuch You used to be so subservient and careful around him, but in the recent five years, due to Fang Chens failure in the Three Realms Mountain, the emperor gave the Fang n and the empress the cold shoulder. Due to that, even a eunuch dared to berate him now.


    This was not the first time they had suffered such humiliation, but they silently tolerated it.


    Is this a joke? How can you receive His Majestys imperial edict on behalf of your son? This is a breach of propriety! I demand to meet young master Fang right now, Eunuch You sneered with a high-pitched voice.


    The Fang nsmensplexions turned horrible. More and more passers-by were gathering in the area, pointing and criticizing them.


    The Greenpine Countrys Celestial Xiao has arrived in the imperial pce. General Fang, dont y any tricks and call your son out right now, Eunuch You sneered.


    Big brother, Ill send someone to look for Chener, the middle-aged man in the wheelchair said.


    Before Fang Canghai could reply, someone saw Fang Chen walking over with Xu Ge.


    War God Fang is here.


    To think he still has the leisure to roam outside today


    Eunuch You looked up and happened to meet Fang Chens grayish-white eyes. For some reason, it sent shivers down his spine, but he quickly shrugged it off with a disdainful smile.


    <em>Hes no longer the great War God Fang, who can get away with pping a member of the imperial family at the entrance of the imperial pce. I dont need to fear him!</em>


    Father, mother, second uncle. Fang Chen urately bowed to the three of them, which left the passers-by wondering if he was truly blind.


    Youre back. Fang Canghai heaved a sigh of relief.


    Hmph! Young master Fang, I thought you dared not receive this imperial edict, Eunuch You spoke with a mocking tone.


    Pah!


    Fang Chen gave Eunuch You a tight p that sent thetters headgear flying off.


    The surroundings fell so silent that one could hear a pin drop. The imperial guards reflexively grabbed their weapons, but their bodies froze up upon seeing Fang Chens grayish-white eyes.


    It was at this moment they suddenly thought about the indomitable War God Fang. Countless people in Great Xia had been pped by him, from the sons of generals, the sons of officials, to members of the imperial family and even imperial princes!


    How dare you p me! Eunuch You sped his cheek as his face flushed in anger. His eyes were filled with disbelief and rage. <em>How dare this trash p me in front of so many people?!</em>


    Ive received the imperial edict. You may scram now. Fang Chen took the imperial edict before waving Eunuch You away like a fly.


    This is a revolt! Eunuch You was outraged. He turned to his subordinates and bellowed with his high-pitched voice, Take him down! Arrest him!


    Eunuch Yous angry roars echoed, but not a single person made a move. His subordinates nced at one another, not daring to move.


    Xu Ge looked at Eunuch You with a mocking smile.


    <em>Yes, there have been plenty of people who insulted the young master behind his back, but none has dared to make a move on him. Not even the Greenpine Countrys martial artists dare to make a move on him!</em>


    <em>He might be crippled now, but his reputation is simply too resounding!</em>


    Pah!


    Fang Chen pped Eunuch You again, and thetter staggered backward from the impact. Another eunuch quickly rushed forward to support him from behind.


    Y.you Eunuch Yous body trembled as he pointed his finger at Fang Chen. His breathing was so ragged that it seemed as if he couldnt catch his breath.


    I can tolerate the popce humiliating me. They contribute to Great Xia through their hard work. I can also tolerate the martial artists humiliating me. They risk their lives on the battlefield to protect the civilians behind them. Its because of them that our Great Xia is prosperous.


    But what about you? A half-man whos only interested in politicking. How have you contributed to Great Xia? What makes you think you can criticize me? Its out of respect for His Majesty that I address you properly, or else you wouldnt even have a name before me, Fang Chen said.


    The looks of the passers-bys faces changed.


    Eunuch You was so angered by those words that blood began seeping from the corners of his lips. The other eunuch knew it wouldnt be wise for them to linger, so he dragged Eunuch You away from here.


    Military God Fang, you might have lost five years ago and had your ki sea destroyed, but as long as youre alive, youre as good as a hundred thousand martial artists to us! a martial artist amidst the crowd roared.


    Fang Chen didnt respond. He took the imperial edict into the General Manor.


    The crowd stared at his departing figure in anticipation. They felt like they could finally see a glimmer of hope, albeit a slim one.

 Chapter 7: Celestial Xiao’s Trial

    Chapter 7: Celestial Xiao¡¯s Trial


    In the General Manors front hall, Fang Canghai looked at the imperial edict before exhaling deeply. He turned his eyes to Fang Chen and asked, Chener, what are your ns?


    Father, Ill take a step at a time, Fang Chen replied.


    <em>Take a step at a time? </em>


    The crowd felt downhearted. Now that Fang Chen had lost his martial cultivation, there wasnt much he could do even if he had all the schemes in the world.


    Just then, the middle-aged man on the wheelchair looked at Xu Ge and frowned. Are you Windcloud Sword Xu Ge?


    Second master, please call me Xu Ge. I am unworthy of that title, Xu Ge replied with a grin.


    Fang Canghai and the others were shocked, especially Fang Zhixue. She rushed up to Xu Ge and examined him. It really is Windcloud Sword Xu Ge! How did you know my big brother?


    Windcloud Xu Ge was a mysterious individual. Five years ago, he arrived at the capital and revealed his outstanding swordsmanship. Over this course of time, his cultivation rose from early Ki Explosion to pinnacle Ki Explosion.


    Someone of his strength was rare in the current Great Xia.


    Many Ki Explosion and Ki Control experts had died in the fight at the Three Realms Mountain, shaking Great Xias foundation. There were probably no more than a hundred Ki Explosion and barely ten Ki Control martial artists left in Great Xia.


    In contrast, Greenpine Country had at least a few hundred pinnacle Ki Explosion martial artists. This was enough to highlight the disparity between the two countries.


    I have long admired the War God. I havee here today to pledge my loyalty to the War God and serve him as a guard, Xu Ge sped his fist and said.


    Fang Canghais eyes glimmered. He nodded his head, as he looked at Xu Ge with gentle eyes. Ill be counting on you to take care of Chener when he goes to Greenpine Country.


    The crowd was also relieved to hear that. Fang Chen would be spared a lot of torture if he had a pinnacle Qi Explosion martial artist protecting him in Greenpine Country.


    Fang Zhixue quickly said, Big brother Xu, well be troubling you in the future.


    Its not trouble at all, Xu Ge quickly replied.


    Chener, do you want me to apany you to the imperial pce? the middle-aged man on the wheelchair asked.


    The daughter of Wolf Marshall Xiao hase here to humiliate our Fang n. Second uncle, wed be ying to her tune if you visit the imperial pce too, Fang Chen said with a chuckle. Ill suffice.


    Fang Chen nced at Xu Ge before heading out with the imperial edict.


    Xu Ge remembered what Fang Chen had told him: <em>If I dont walk out of the imperial court today, you have to escort the Fang n out of the capital. However, the chances of it happening are extremely slim.</em>


    In the imperial pce, the hundred soldiers stood solemnly before the Pce of Great Peace. They would asionally nce at the nearby guards with contempt in their eyes.


    The guards were infuriated, but they dared not say a word.


    Five years ago, the Wolf Army wouldnt even have been able to enter their capital, but here they were in the imperial pce. Great Xia had be iparably insignificant before Greenpine Country.


    Bring me before His Majesty! Eunuch You screeched with a face covered in blood, as he rushed toward the Pce of Great Peace under the support of a few other eunuchs.


    The guards were taken aback. <em>Didnt Eunuch You head to the Fang n to announce the imperial edict? How did he get beaten up?</em>


    Godfather, what happened? The vicemander of the West Tiger Barracks, You Longchang, walked over and stared at Eunuch You in shock.


    That brat, Fang Chen, is too much! Eunuch You berated, but he rushed into the Pce of Great Peace instead of lingering around for a chat with You Longchang.


    <em>Fang Chen?!</em>


    You Longchang was startled. <em>Fang Chen has maintained a low profile over the five years, but he actually struck my godfather today? This reminds me of five years ago, when even His Majestys prestige seems to pale inparison to him.</em>


    A cripple like him dares act so arrogantly. It looks like he cant put down his past You Longchang sneered.


    The hundred soldiers of the Wolf Army reflexively raised their heads and nced at each other, the disdain in their eyes disappearing without a trace.


    The Great Xias War God carried great significance to them as they had shed countless times with Fang Chens military formation. Not once had they ever gotten the upper hand over him. Countless soldiers of the Wolf Army had died to him. In fact, they were the ones who cameter.


    In the Pce of Great Peace, practically all of the officials, academic and military, were present. The emperor of Great Xia sat on the imperial throne in a yellow dragon robe as he chatted with Celestial Xiao.


    Their conversation revolved around Fang Chen marrying into the Xiao n, as well as Greenpine Countrys promise to not invade Great Xia within the next five years.


    Eunuch You happened to barge into the Pce of Great Peace then and kneeled on the floor, crying in agony, Your Majesty, I have failed to properly deliver the imperial edict. I was struck by young master Fang. Please punish me for my ipetence!


    What?!


    He was struck by Fang Chen?


    The official stared at Eunuch You in bewilderment. <em>But Fang Chen hasnt struck anyone for five years, right? </em>Some of them reflexively touched their own cheeks.


    Celestial Xiao looked at the emperor with a frown.


    The emperor was also taken aback. He stared at Eunuch You with a darkened face as he asked, You were struck by Fang Chen? What about the imperial edict? Did he ept it?


    Your Majesty, he did ept it, but


    Eunuch You wanted to further borate on the matter, but to his astonishment, the emperor waved his hand and said, Thats good enough. He wouldnt have struck you without reason. You must have said something that angered him. You arent the only one who has been struck by him in this Pce of Great Peace. Theres no need to make a huge fuss about it.


    Eunuch You was rendered speechless.


    Some of the officials snorted. <em>Great Xia needs Fang Chen to marry into the Xiao n and appease Greenpine Country in exchange for five years of survival. A mere eunuch still wants to deal with Fang Chen at this critical juncture? </em>


    Your Majesty, War God Fang seems reluctant to marry into our Xiao n. Will he disregard your imperial edict? Should I send my Wolf Army to drag him here? Celestial Xiao asked with a smile.


    There were subtle changes in the officials expressions. A hint of nervousness tinged their eyes.


    <em>If news spread that the Wolf Army has captured Fang Chen in our own capital, it would be a huge p in Great Xias face! </em>


    Rest assured, Miss Xiao. Fang Chen is my nephew. He wont disregard the imperial edict, the emperor said. He nced at the impassive empress behind him before directing another smile at Celestial Xiao, You just need to be more patient.


    Just then, You Longchangs voice echoed from outside the doors, The young master of General Fang Manor is here!


    The emperor smiled. See, hes here.


    Celestial Xiao narrowed her eyes. She turned outward and shouted, War God Fang, you have to undergo a trial if you wish to marry into the Xia n!


    Everyone, from the emperor to the officials, were startled by those words.


    Well drop this marriage if he fails the trial. Our Greenpine Country will trample on Great Xia and turn it into our subordinate nation, Celestial Xiao said with a chuckle.


    Outside the Pce of Great Peace, the Wolf Army got into their formation and eyed the approaching Fang Chen with sharp eyes.

 Chapter 8: As Cheap as Weed

    Chapter 8: As Cheap as Weed


    Fang Chen slowly walked toward the Pce of Great Peace with closed eyes, seemingly unaware of the hundred Wolf Armys soldiers ring at him.


    Hes really blind! one of the soldiers murmured.


    It felt like the times had really changed, seeing their most feared enemy on the battlefield be a blind cripple. But above that, it deepened their admiration for the First Wolf Marshall.


    <em>So what if you became a War God at a young age? In the end, you still fell in defeat to our First Wolf Marshall! Our First Wolf Marshall is still the greatest of all!</em>


    Meanwhile, the emperor, Celestial Xiao, and the officials had walked to the entrance of the Pce of Great Peace. The empress, who had maintained an impassive face thus far, saw Fang Chens skinny silhouette, and a pained frown shed across her face.


    He looks the same in the paintings, just less imposing than before. Celestial Xiao assessed Fang Chen before revealing a smile. I dont see anything special, though Ill concede he does look better than the men I had.


    A flicker of rage zed in the empress eyes.


    The officials also red at Celestial Xiao in anger. It didnt matter whether they were on good terms with Fang Chen or not; it was a humiliation to Great Xia for her topare their War God with her male lovers!


    Your Majesty, you exin to him. He has to undergo a trial if he wishes to marry into our Xiao n. I have no desire to bring back a useless blind man, Celestial Xiao said.


    The emperor turned to Fang Chen and called out, Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen pays respect to His Majesty. Fang Chen halted his footsteps, sped his fist, and bowed toward the emperor.


    Audacious, Fang Chen! Why arent you kneeling before His Majesty? You Longchang roared.


    The crowd figured that he was venting on behalf of his godfather, Eunuch You.


    Fang Chens eyes remained closed, but he slowly turned to where You Longchang was. The vicemander of the West Tiger Barracks, You Longchang?


    You Longchang was stunned. <em>Is he really blind? Hes acting no different from a normal person! We havent met for five years now, but he still recognized me right away!</em>


    Yes, thats me, You Longchang grimly replied.


    His Majesty has bestowed me with the privilege to remain on my feet in his presence. Have you forgotten about that? Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    Startled, You Longchang blurted out, But thats before you fell into defeat


    He couldnt finish speaking. <em>Now that I think about it His Majesty didnt retract Fang Chens privilege despite thetter falling into defeat. We were the ones who one-sidedly thought Fang Chen had lost all his honor and rights. </em>


    It looks like you have remembered. Fang Chen chuckled. He turned to the emperor and said, Your Majesty, I rushed here upon receiving the imperial edict. May I know if the daughter of Wolf Marshall Xiao is here?


    The emperor nced at Celestial Xiao before replying, Miss Xiao is here with me. She said that you have to clear her trial before you can marry into the Xiao n.


    The officialsplexions turned awful.


    It was already a humiliation for Great Xia to have Fang Chen marry into the Xiao n, yet Celestial Xiao still wanted to stage a y to make it seem as if Great Xia was pushing for it. This only furthered the humiliation.


    Trial? May I know what trial? Fang Chen asked.


    Miss Xiao? The emperor looked at Celestial Xiao.


    Its simple, War God Fang. Ill deem you to have cleared the trial if youre able to guess the movements of my Wolf Army, Celestial Xiao said before ncing at the leader of the Wolf Armys soldiers.


    The Wolf Armys leader immediately ordered his soldiers to charge at the guards, maids, and eunuchs.


    Bam bam bam!


    Several guards, maids, and eunuchs were tossed in Fang Chens direction. They were both confused and horrified, as they had no idea how they were involved in the trial.


    The emperors face twitched when he saw how the Wolf Army dared to make a move on his people in the imperial pce.


    Audacious! How dare you cause a fuss in the imperial pce, before the eyes of His Majesty? An old official with a long white beard stepped forward and red at Celestial Xiao. He was Great Xias prime minister, Li Guozhu!


    Its required in the trial. Your Majesty doesnt mind, right? Celestial Xiao asked.


    Haha The emperor chuckled. I wonder what kind of trial would require them. Celestial Xiao, you should just give the word. Theres no need for your subordinates to make a move lest it cause a misunderstanding.


    At the same time, he waved his hand at Li Guozhu, signaling thetter to step down.


    Li Guozhu frowned, but he didnt say anything more.


    Simple. Celestial Xiao looked at Fang Chen. War God Fang, you have four guards, four maids, and four eunuchs in front of you. Later, you have to guess whether my subordinate is going to kill the guards, maids, or eunuchs. Id consider you to have cleared the trial if you get it right.


    The crowd was appalled.


    Someone couldnt take it anymore and roared, Do you have the life of our people as a joke?!


    Just then, the Wolf Armys leader took out a bow and aimed it at Fang Chen, but he soon turned it toward the guards, maids, and eunuchs.


    As long as our Greenpine Country wills so, your peoples lives can be as cheap as weed. If youre wise, you wouldnt let one or two lives ruin our arrangement. Your Majesty, dont you agree? Celestial Xiao asked.


    Your Majesty, how will the world see us if you allow them to murder our people in the imperial pce? the empress finally spoke up.


    The emperor fell silent for a few moments. In the end, he ignored the empress and turned to Fang Chen, saying, Fang Chen, do as Celestial Xiao requests.


    The crowd was startled. The guards, maids, and eunuchs were horrified. They never thought they would be ughtered by Greenpine Countrys soldiers despite being in the imperial pce.


    <em>Pah pah pah!</em>


    Fang Chen pped. I finally understand why Wolf Marshall Xiao spared me back then.


    Celestial Xiao narrowed her eyes. She remembered her fathers instructions:


    <em>Fang Chen has suffered insults and humiliation in Great Xia in the past five years. If we can win him over, even if hes crippled as a martial artist, he can still contribute greatly to our Greenpine Countrys advancement to a grade-8 state. Thats why I spared his life then.</em>


    <em>Whether it works or not depends on the decision he makes in the trial. If he still chooses to serve Great Xia, you have to kill him on the spot. </em>


    <em>Otherwise, bring him back to Greenpine Country. Dont slight or insult him anymore, for he would have already seen through my thoughts.</em>


    War God Fang, its time for you to make your choice. Is my subordinate going to kill the guards, the maids, or the eunuchs? Celestial Xiao asked.


    The officials looked at the scene with deste eyes. Li Guozhu first looked at Fang Chen, followed by the emperor, and in the end, he let out a sigh and fell silent.


    <em>So what if we understand what Greenpine Country is up to? Great Xia doesnt have the power to stop it anymore. Greenpine Country is forcing Fang Chen to kill his own people, so that hell never be epted in Great Xia ever again. He wont be the War God anymore from this day on.</em>


    What if I say none are going to die? Fang Chen said.


    The emperors expression flickered. Li Guozhu and the others were stunned.


    Fang Chen should have understood the weight of the current situation. Given their plight, they had no choice but to bow down to Greenpine Countrys demands, so as to buy five more years for Great Xia!

 Chapter 9: Sorry to Disappoint Your Father

    Chapter 9: Sorry to Disappoint Your Father


    You have disappointed my father.


    Celestial Xiaos eyes turned cold. She nced at the Wolf Armys leader, and the Human Profound third stage Ki Control expert immediately aimed his arrow at Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen raised his hand and activated his Purple Lightning Talisman. A terrifying bolt of lightning shed across the crowds eyes and reduced the Wolf Armys leader into cinders. Even the soldiers around him were caught in the fray and burned to crisp too.


    This sight astounded the crowd.


    <em>What terrifying means is that?! Didnt they say that Fang Chen has lost his martial cultivation and is now a cripple? Why does he possess terrifying means to destroy even a Ki Control expert instantly?</em>


    Thats impossible You Longchang stared at Fang Chen in absolute terror.


    W-War God Fang didnt lose his martial cultivation?! an official blurted out.


    Spirit slowly returned to the dull eyes of the officials, as they looked at one another excitedly. Their shoulders began trembling uncontrobly.


    A shudder ran through Li Guozhus body. As he stared at Fang Chen, tears began falling from his eyes as he muttered, Theres hope for Great Xia


    The emperor stared at Fang Chen with flickering eyes. In the end, he sped his mouth, as his eyes turned red.


    Your martial cultivation Celestial Xiaos face turned pale.


    Sorry to disappoint your father. My martial cultivation isnt crippled. Fang Chen opened his grayish-white eyes and looked at Celestial Xiao. My eyes can no longer see, but it doesnt hinder me from leading an army onto the battlefield.


    You held it in for five years For what? Celestial Xiao couldnt believe it. There was a short pause before she roared, Kill him!


    Some of the Wolf Armys soldiers drew their bow, whereas the others charged at Fang Chen. Their murderous intent overflowed, filling the surroundings with bloodthirst.


    A few more lightning bolts crashed down, reducing the soldiers charging at Fang Chen into cinders. Those who had aimed their arrows at Fang Chen found their fingers trembling in fright.


    Your father spared my life back then. Ill spare yours today. Take your men and leave, Fang Chen cidly said.


    He had already used five of the Purple Lightning Talismans, and the remaining five wouldnt be enough to destroy the remaining Wolf Armys soldiers. His empty bluff would be revealed if the enemy insisted on fighting to the end,


    However, he figured the possibility of that was slim.


    Celestial Xiao stared at Fang Chen with many different emotions before finally clenching her teeth. She waved at her subordinates and shouted, Lets go!


    She swiftly left the imperial pce with her Wolf Army.


    The emperor was momentarily silent before issuing an order, General You, escort Miss Xiao.


    You Longchang nodded before quickly bringing his men over.


    War God Fang, thank you for saving our lives! The guards, maids, and eunuchs kneeled down and kowtowed to Fang Chen with utmost gratitude.


    Fang Chen,e to the Imperial Library! the emperor said before taking his leave.


    The officials nce at one another. They hadnt expected todays events to end in such a way. Regardless, it was good news that Fang Chen still had his martial cultivation.


    The empress ran up to Fang Chen and asked, Chener, have you really regained your martial cultivation?


    Aunt, its a long story. Have you been well in the pce? You havent visited in a while, Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    Im good. I had my hands full, so I couldnt find time to visit, the empress replied with a nod, but her eyes darkened. However, the shadow on her face soon dissipated, and she broke out in a smile. Im relieved to learn that you have regained your martial cultivation. Go to the Imperial Library. Ill inform His Majesty that Ill be returning to the Fang n with you.


    All right. Fang Chen nodded.


    Please enter, Lord Fang, Eunuch You, who had previously acted arrogantly before Fang Chen, lowered his head and spoke with a respectful tone. His waist remained bent as he waited for thetter to enter the premises.


    Fang Chen nced at him before entering the Imperial Library.


    Eunuch You closed the doors before exhaling deeply. He wiped off the cold sweat from his face.


    The emperor sat in the Imperial Library, quietly assessing Fang Chen. Thetter stood still without saying a word. Silence loomed in the room.


    Half a minuteter, the emperor finally said, Fang Chen, when did you recover your cultivation? Your means earlier doesnt appear to be your Fang ns Profound Heaven Form.


    I met a daoistst year who imparted to me a method to condition my body. I didnt think much about it at the start, but to my surprise, I regained my martial cultivation. At the same time, I grasped a martial art called Purple Lightning Palm, Fang Chen sped his fist and replied.


    A daoist?! Where is the daoist now? The emperor suddenly rose to his feet in agitation.


    I have only met him once. He has likely wandered elsewhere by now, Fang Chen replied.


    What a pity. Direct him to me if you meet him again. I have always been interested in daoist arts, the emperor said.


    He paused for a moment before getting to the main topic at hand. This time, I was forced to betroth you to the Xiao n for the survival of our Great Xia. Its good news you have regained your martial cultivation. Wolf Marshall Xiao would be intimidated and think twice before attacking us for the time being.


    He looked at Fang Chen with an intense gaze. You dont me me, right?


    Your Majesty, I understand your difficulties. Its all for Great Xias countless civilians. If I had not regained my martial cultivation, I would have followed Fairy Xia to Greenpine Country, Fang Chen replied with a sped fist.


    Its good that you understand. I reckon youll have to rest since you have only just regained your martial cultivation. Dont move around too much for now and recuperate in your manor, all right? the emperor said.


    Yes, Your Majesty, Fang Chen replied with a nod.


    The emperor took in Fang Chens expression before smiling. You may leave now.


    Fang Chen stepped out of the Imperial Library, and Eunuch You walked him out. Along the way, they stumbled upon a group of people. The person leading the group had a perfectplexion reminiscent of jade, and he wore a dignified purple robe that exuded regality.


    Your Highness?! Eunuch You was rmed. He quickly halted his footsteps and bowed.


    The person dressed in purple was none other than the incumbent crown prince, but he wasnt the offspring of the empress but Noble Consort Hua.


    I heard War God Fang has regained his martial cultivation and was overjoyed, so I came here to pay you a visit. Paying no heed to Eunuch You, the crown prince walked up to Fang Chen, sped his fist, and bowed. However, there was coldness in his eyes as he assessed Fang Chen.


    Your Highness, it has been a long time since we met, but Im exhausted. Id like to return to my manor and rest. Lets catch up next time, Fang Chen replied with a smile before walking off.


    The crown prince was taken aback. He looked at Fang Chens departing figure with a livid face. A momentter, a vicious glint shed across his eyes, and he murmured, Investigate the people whom Fang Chen hase into contact with in the past five years. I want to know how he regained his martial cultivation!


    Yes, Your Highness!

 Chapter 10: As Promised, You’re the First to be Slain

    Chapter 10: As Promised, You¡¯re the First to be in


    The empress procession was already waiting for him outside the imperial pce by the time Fang Chen arrived. The empress invited him onto the carriage, and the two of them made their way back to the Fang n.


    Chener, did His Majesty reinstate you as a marshall? the empress asked with a suppressed voice.


    Fang Chen chuckled. His Majesty told me to have a good rest in the Fang n. He said that I have only just regained my martial cultivation, and I should take my time to heal up.


    I see The empress was disappointed.


    Aunt, has Noble Consort Hua been causing you trouble? Fang Chen asked.


    The crown prince addresses me as his mother, but in the end, hes Noble Consort Huas child. She has been making use of this rtionship to kick a fuss in the rear pce. She hasnt openly challenged me yet, but she has been probing. I reckon shes eyeing my position, the empress replied.


    There was a brief silence before she said, I must be getting old. Why am I saying all these? You have never been fond of the political shenanigans of the imperial pce. Since His Majesty told you to take a rest, you should take this time to rest well.


    Fang Chen simply smiled without saying a word. He understood the emperors temperament.


    He had once been revered as Great Xias War God, and his prestige amongst the popce soared even above that of the emperor. This had stoked the emperors displeasure.


    However, there was nothing Fang Chen could do about it. To defeat Greenpine Country and the others who were eyeing their Great Xia, he needed to build up a strong prestige to bolster the morale of the soldiers, so that their soldiers could be more valiant than the others.


    It wasnt easy for his reputation to fall to the bottom. There was no way the emperor would let him make aeback. He was unlikely to be reinstated as the Grand Marshall.


    Hardly anyone knew that most of the insults and rumors surrounding him were orchestrated by the emperor.


    Fang Chen, in one of his astral projections, had personally witnessed the emperor instructing the crown prince to spread rumors that they had lost the fight in the Three Realms Mountain due to Fang Chen being greedy for merit and not following the imperial courts directions.


    <em>Even without any army under mymand, I can still easily protect Great Xia from the likes of Greenpine Country with the means of a cultivator. I shall have nothing more to do with the affairs of the imperial court. Once I reach Foundation Establishment, Ill travel to the Center Continent Countrys Three Thousand Dao Gate and join them</em>, Fang Chen thought.


    He was only at the first stage of Ki Refinement, but his talismans could easily kill Ki Control experts. His means far surpassed that of martial artists. He looked forward to seeing what else he would be capable of as his cultivation rose, and he desired to wander freely like how Elder Cloudcrane did by astral projecting his Nascent Soul.


    This lowly one was wrong! Milord, please have mercy! It was all because this lowly one failed to keep my child in check! Please hit me instead of the child!


    Amotion suddenly broke out.


    The empress frowned. Whats happening outside?


    A pce maid pulled open the curtains and whispered, A Greenpine martial artist is beating up a vendor. A tinge of fear could be seen in her eyes.


    A Greenpine martial artist? The empress expression turned grim.


    Aunt, Ill take a look. Fang Chen alighted from the carriage.


    The empress was rmed, but she quickly remembered that Fang Chen had regained his martial cultivation and breathed a sigh of relief. She pried open the curtains and watched the scene outside.


    A vendor hugged the leg of a Greenpine martial artist, desperately begging thetter. There was a three-year-old child seated beside the vendor. His face was red as if someone had just viciously pped him, and he was crying loudly.


    The spectators eyes were filled with resentment, but no one dared to stop the martial artist.


    Your child dirted my boots. How about I take your leg in exchange? Sounds fair, right?


    Spare me, milord! Please spare me! I wont be able to raise my family without my leg! My family will die of starvation!


    Thats none of my business. Its not a problem if a couple of lowly peasants of Great Xia die anyway.


    Anger rushed to the crowds heads when they heard the martial artists words of contempt. The empress guards clenched their fists as killing intent shed across their eyes.


    War God Fang, the leader of the empress guards sped his fist and greeted Fang Chen as he came out of the carriage.


    Fang Chen nodded before walking to the Greenpine martial artist. I remember you. Youre He Longsheng, right?


    Its War God Fang!


    The crowds morale was boosted upon seeing Fang Chen. Most of them had uttered insulting words about Fang Chen over the past five years, but they still found themselves reassured by his presence.


    Oh? Isnt this our Xiao ns young master? Is your marriage with our young miss settled? When will you be marrying over? He Longsheng sneered as he reflexively touched the stub of his severed ear.


    Fang Chen paid him no heed. He nced at the vendor kneeling on the ground and said, You may leave.


    T-thank you, thank you! The vendor thanked Fang Chen before hurriedly picking up her child and leaving the area.


    He Longsheng was infuriated. He wanted to stop the vendor from leaving, but Fang Chens intense gaze left him feeling inexplicably chilled. In the end, he held himself back.


    He coldly red at Fang Chen. Young master, dont you think youre interfering too much? Youre part of Greenpine Country from this day onward. You shouldnt side with outsiders.


    Hahaha! You dont know yet, right? Fang Chen is going to marry into the Xiao n. Hell have to call Wolf Marshall Xiao father.


    You think hes going to stand up for you? Think again! Your War God Fang has already died five years ago!


    The other Greenpine martial artists roared in mockery.


    The civilians were stunned. Some of them were angered. Some of them were in despair.


    It was then that You Longchang arrived with his army. Upon noticing Fang Chen, he walked over with a look of uncertainty. War God Fang, whats going on?


    Have you escorted Celestial Xiao out of the capital? Fang Chen asked.


    I have. You Longchang nodded.


    <em>Wait, Celestial Xiao is gone? But Fang Chen is still here? In the first ce, why did she leave the capital when she only arrived earlier today? </em>He Longsheng and the others were perplexed.


    You keep calling me young master that Im starting to get a bit embarrassed. Its a pity, but Im not fated to join the Xiao n. Fang Chen looked at He Longsheng with a faint smile.


    How could this He Longsheng was stunned.


    You Longchang, Ill borrow your sword, Fang Chen said as he stretched his hand forth.


    You Longchang was confused. He nced at He Longsheng, the Greenpine martial artist, and his eyes suddenly widened in shock. War God Fang


    Shut up.


    Yes sir! You Longchang quickly retrieved his sword from his waist and passed it to Fang Chen.


    I told you that you are the first one Id ughter when I pick up my de once more, He Longsheng, Fang Chen said as he grabbed the sword handle and slowly drew the sword.


    <em>War God Fang is going to kill that Greenpine martial artist?</em>


    The surrounding crowd stared at Fang Chen in disbelief. Even the empress in the carriage also widened her eyes.


    He Longsheng was startled, but he quickly burst intoughter. Youre going to kill me? Have you forgotten that I have the Greenpine Country behind me?


    Hahaha!


    The other Greenpine martial artists burst intoughter too. It was as if this was the funniest joke they had heard in thest five years.


    He Longsheng even stretched out his neck. Here, War God Fang. Feel free to chop here. If I let out even a groan, Ill


    Psh!


    With a sh of cold light, He Longshengs head fell from his body and rolled a distance away. Fresh blood gushed from his neck like a spring.

 Chapter 11: The World Shall Change From This Day Onward

    Chapter 11: The World Shall Change From This Day Onward


    The surroundings fellpletely silent. Theughing Greenpine martial artists found their smiles slowly stiffened up, as disbelief crept into their eyes. They never thought Fang Chen would really dare to kill someone from Greenpine Country,


    You Longchang and his subordinates were stunned. The empress procession was dumbstruck. The surrounding popce sped their mouths, bbergasted by what they had seen.


    Greenpine martial artists had been oppressing them in the capital all this while. They had witnessed more than enough of their atrocities. As much as they wanted to rip them into pieces, they knew that they had to hold back.


    Killing someone from Greenpine Country will invoke Greenpine Countrys wrath. The current Great Xia couldnt withstand that.


    Yet, Fang Chen actually yed a Greenpine martial artist.


    The crowd was shocked and confused, but that was soon reced with delight. That was exhrating after undergoing five years of oppression!


    How dare you, Fang Chen! a Greenpine martial artist roared.


    Fang Chen began walking toward the martial artist with his sword. The surrounding civilians automatically stepped aside.


    Psh!


    Yet another head fell to the ground. The first stage Ki Condensation Greenpine martial artist was in, and he couldnt even fight back at all.


    How dare you! Insolence! Arent you scared that our Greenpine Country would destroy your Great Xia?! the remaining Greenpine martial artists screeched.


    From this day onward, I dont want to see any Greenpine martial artists in Great Xias capital, Fang Chen calmly dered.


    Several people in the crowd nodded in agreement as they secretly slit the necks of nearby Greenpine martial artists.


    This sight had Great Xias civilians breathing heavier, as their eyes reddened in excitement. They began scanning their surroundings for martial artists from Greenpine Country.


    What should we do,mander? one of You Longchangs subordinates asked.


    Do what? You Longchang was still overwhelmed by the situation and wasnt thinking straight.


    War God Fang has regained his martial cultivation. We dont have to fear Greenpine Country anymore! How can we allow their martial artists to continue oppressing our people? We should work with War God Fang to eliminate every one of them! the subordinate urged with a suppressed voice.


    But You Longchang gritted his teeth.


    He dared not decide on this by himself. For a matter as grave as this, they would require the emperors edict before making a move.


    Commander, my younger brother was killed by a Greenpine martial artist on the streets, the subordinate said.


    Damn it! I dont care anymore! You Longchang roared, Soldiers of West Tiger Barracks!


    Yes,mander! There was a resounding response.


    We shall follow War God Fangs lead and purge the capital of all Greenpine martial artists today!


    You Longchangs eyes reddened with bloodthirst, as if he had returned to the days when he fought valiantly on the battlefield. Terrifying killing intent billowed from him.


    Yes,mander!


    You Longchang led his subordinates behind Fang Chen, as they made their way toward a martial dojo. This martial dojo was opened by Greenpine Country, and it was the ce where Greenpine martial artists frequented.


    Countless Great Xias civilians followed them. They might be unarmed, but five years of umted rage from the oppression they had suffered greatly enlivened them. They felt as if endless energy was surging in their body.


    Your Majesty, young master Fang The pce maid stared dazedly at the empress.


    The empress took a deep breath before turning to her guards. Take your men to support Chener. Well support him in purging the capital of Greenpine martial artists.


    Yes, Your Majesty! The leader of the empress guards nodded in excitement.


    Leaving a few guards to protect the empress, he took the others and chased after Fang Chen.


    The world is going to change from this day onward, the empress murmured.


    Your Majesty, someone might use this matter to attack you, the pce maid said worriedly.


    Fang Chen was the empress nephew, after all. They were on their way back to the Fang n when he suddenly began ughtering Greenpine martial artists. If this matter blew up, the empress would be implicated.


    In particr, Noble Consort Hua would never let this opportunity slip.


    They might have forgotten, but I was a Fang nsman before I became the empress. The empress chuckled. Lightning flickered across her eyes, and the jade ring she had been fiddling in her hands was suddenly reduced to dust.


    The Greenpine Superior Dojo upied a huge plot ofnd, as the ce used to be an administrative office. Greenpine Country had taken over it when it won the war five years ago and established a martial dojo in its ce.


    The word superior indicated that those from Greenpine Country were superior to the lowly people of Great Xia.


    It was crowded. Eight out of ten Greenpine martial artists making a living in Great Xias capital resided here.


    Do you think Celestial Xiao will visit our dojo?


    Of course! Our dojo master was a Wolf Armys veteran. He was part of the army who fought alongside First Wolf Marshall at Three Realms Mountain and defeated Fang Chen!


    I heard Celestial Xiao is an unparalleled beauty. Fang Chen got lucky!


    Dont say that. If Fang Chen bes one of us too, Great Xia will be over. By then, itll only be a matter of time before our Greenpine Country conquers thisnd! Hahaha!


    A group of Greenpine martial artists were idly chatting near the dojos entrance, and they wouldugh loudly every now and then. A group of servants carefully maneuvered around the martial artists with fearful eyes.


    These servants were from Great Xia, but they had been forced to serve the Greenpine martial artists. They were afraid of having their heads lopped off if they screwed up.


    Just then, a Greenpine martial artist noticed that something was amiss. Why is it so noisy outside? He stood up and looked outward, only to be taken aback.


    Whats wrong? hispanion asked.


    People. Theres a lot of people the Greenpine martial artist muttered. They seem to be heading in our direction.


    <em>A lot of people?</em>


    The Greenpine martial artists rushed outside, and they were shocked by the massive crowd gathered outside. Most were ordinary civilians, but there were also armored soldiers. Someone even recognized Fang Chen, who stood at the forefront of the crowd.


    Isnt that Fang Chen?


    Something is not right. Ill inform the dojo master! one of the martial artists rushed off.


    Fang Chen walked up to the Greenpine Superior Dojo and eyed the que hanging above the entrance. Commander You, take down the que.


    Yes sir! You Longchang leaped up and punched the que, smashing it into pieces. The wooden smithereens fell all over the ground.


    Audacious!


    The Greenpine martial artists were infuriated. Their eyes turned red with anger.


    Kill them, Fang Chen said.


    War God Fang, are you sure? You Longchang had regained hisposure on his way here, and he began weighing the pros and cons of their actions.


    Dont make me repeat myself. Fang Chen frowned.


    You Longchang realized that there was no backing down anymore. There was only one choice he could make. Thus, he roared, Kill them!!!


    He charged into the Greenpine Superior Dojo, with his subordinates quickly following him.


    The Greenpine martial artists gathered at the entrance of the dojo didnt have time to react before they were buried under a sea of people. In a matter of seconds, every one of them had already suffered more than ten cuts.


    This showed how much the people of Great Xia hated Greenpine martial artists.


    You Longchang led the way, whereas Fang Chen rxedly paced behind him.


    The civilians closely followed Fang Chens footsteps with worried but excited faces.


    The Greenpine martial artists realized what was going on and rallied their forces to stage a counterattack. It was then that a person rushed out. Upon seeing this sight, he furiously roared, Stop!


    That person was the Greenpine Superior Dojos Master, Xiao Tianci. He was not a Xiao nsman, but he was granted the Xiao n name as he had fought alongside Wolf Marshall Xiao from a young age.

 Chapter 12: How Can My Rage Be Placated?

    Chapter 12: How Can My Rage Be cated?


    The battle temporarily halted. Everyone turned their eyes to Xiao Tianci.


    Fang Chen, what are you doing? Xiao Tianci red at Fang Chen. Uncertainty flickered in the depths of his eyes, as he struggled to understand what was going on.


    <em>He has lied low for five years now, but he suddenly led a group of misfits to attack our Greenpine Superior Dojo?</em>


    He thought that the people with Fang Chen were no more than a group of weak misfits, whom he could easily deal with by himself. His strength as a third stage Ki Control expert was not just for show. A single Ki Control expert could rival a thousand soldiers on the battlefield!


    I know Wolf Marshall Xiao dispatched you to our capital to reach out to unstable elements and scheme with them, but I have turned a blind eye to it, since those fellows cant shake us. Fang Chen sighed. But you should have kept a rein on your people and keep them from acting as they pleased in our capital.


    You have a lot to say for a defeated general, Xiao Tianci sneered. Youll be the young master of our Xiao n soon. Ill let you off on our young miss ount. Take your men and leave, and I wont report this matter to your emperor.


    A loud voice suddenly boomed, Dojo Master Xiao, whos so brazen as to cause trouble here? Dont worry! I, Li Huang, will ughter him!


    The crowd looked over and saw a chubby young man strutting out. He was apanied by a few decently strong guards.


    Why is he here? You Longchang frowned.


    Li Huang, like Fang Chen, was the nephew of one of the emperors consorts, which meant he was a rtive of the imperial family.


    Fang Chen?! West Tiger Barracks You Longchang? Li Huangs footsteps screeched to a halt. Fear flickered across his eyes, but there was also a hint of resentment in their depths.


    Young master Li, leave this matter to me, Xiao Tianci said with a smile.


    S-sure, Dojo Master Xiao. You can resolve it.


    Li Huang backed down right away. He stood by the side and eyed Fang Chen. He couldnt understand why Fang Chen, a cripple, would suddenly appear in the Greenpine Superior Dojo.


    Fang Chen, you should leave, Xiao Tianci said.


    You Longchang frowned in worry. The excited Great Xia civilians were intimidated as well. They knew the person standing before them was a third stage Ki Control expert!


    The Greenpine Superior Dojo has three Ki Control experts, two early stage and one middle stage, fifteen pinnacle Ki Explosion, and 1032 martial artists, Fang Chen said.


    The crowd gasped in shock.


    They hadnt known that Greenpine Superior Dojo was so powerful. There were only around ten pinnacle Ki Explosion martial artists in the entire Great Xias capital! As for Ki Control experts, there were hardly any of them left after that battle five years ago.


    And this is just their martial dojo. Just how many experts does the Greenpine Country have? The crowd wondered.


    Xiao Tianci was astounded too. He hadnt expected the other party to urately list out the number of martial artists Greenpine Country had in Great Xia. If they rallied all of the martial artists under theirmand, they could even stage a mini war.


    It might even be possible for them to stomp Great Xias imperial pce!


    An ominous feeling welled up in Xiao Tiancis heart. <em>I thought Fang Chen had given up since he went silent for five years, but those words showed that he has been keeping an eye all along!</em>


    War God Fang, whats your reason foring here today? Dont forget that youll soon be marrying into our Xiao n! Xiao Tianci threatened.


    You havent heard yet? Celestial Xiao has already left the capital, Fang Chen said with augh.


    <em>She has left the capital? </em>Xiao Tianci was startled, as he hadnt received news about that.


    You dont know? It doesnt matter. It doesnt change what Im about to do, Fang Chen said.


    With a fling of his sleeves, a lightning bolt fell on Xiao Tianci. A third stage Ki Control expert was roasted to crisp just like that.


    Ah!


    Gasps could be heard all around.


    You Longchang was shaken up despite having witnessed this scene before. The surrounding civilians were utterly bewildered, though some of them looked at Fang Chen in admiration.


    As expected of War God Fang. He has never admitted defeat!


    These people were so excited that they were tempted to howl their feelings out.


    One down. Two more to go, Fang Chen murmured. Commander You, kill them. Dont let a single one of the Greenpine martial artists here escape.


    Yes sir! You Longchang roared with reddened eyes.


    He charged at the Greenpine martial artists, who were struggling toe to terms with their dojo masters death. There was no retreat for him. He was now Fang Chens sword. Wherever Fang Chen pointed, he would ughter.


    No, thats impossible How could he be Hes a Ki Control expert! How could Fang Chen kill him in a single move?! Did he recover his martial cultivation? What was that lightning?!


    Li Huangs face paled in horror. The more he thought about it, the more confused he became. He trembled as he watched You Longchang ughter Greenpine martial artists.


    Li Huang, lets reminisce about the past, Fang Chen threw these words to Li Huang before heading deeper into the Greenpine Superior Dojo.


    Li Huang turned ghastly pale. He nced at the chaotic surroundings around him before hurriedly following Fang Chen with clenched jaws.


    You have gotten close with Xiao Tianci over the years, Fang Chen said as he walked.


    Li Huang squeezed out a smile. We arent that close. I just oftene here to train.


    There was a brief pause before Li Huang tried to probe, War God Fang, therell be an uproar once the imperial court learns that you have killed Xiao Tianci. His Majesty might punish you for this


    Why would His Majesty punish me for killing Greenpine martial artists? Fang Chen asked with an enigmatic smile.


    I-itll evoke Greenpine Countrys wrath! How many people in our Great Xia will have to die to appease their anger? Li Huang eximed.


    How many of Greenpine Countrys civilians do you think ought to die to appease my anger? Fang Chen returned the question.


    By then, he had arrived at the Greenpine Superior Dojos rear courtyard. The Greenpine martial artists here appeared to be oblivious to the chaos outside. Quite a few of them were feasting on meat and alcohol with their tops bare. From time to time, they would point at the targets in the distance and mock them.


    In the distance, there were dozens of targetslive targets bound in ce. All of them were civilians of Great Xia!


    Li Huang, its nothing much, right? Whats there to worry about when our dojo master is here? Its your turn now. I shot that lowly peasant in the forehead with just one arrow. You have to do the same, or else youd have lost the bet. Thatd be a thousand silver taels, thanks! one of the Greenpine martial artists merrily waved at Li Huang.


    The others burst intoughter. Li Huang had lost quite a lot of silver taels here in recent years, so they saw him as a plump fish waiting to be harvested.


    That reminded Li Huang of Fang Chens earlier words, and his face warped in shock. His body was trembling more and more intensely.


    You havent answered my question yet. How can I cate my rage? Fang Chen asked as he looked at the dead corpses tied upright as live targets.

 Chapter 13: From Today Onward, You May Return To the Team

    Chapter 13: From Today Onward, You May Return To the Team


    I-I have nothing to do with this. I am only here to watch themotion. These targ-no, I mean these people, I havent killed a single one of them Li Huangs voice quivered in fear.


    Li Huangs guards exchanged gazes and stuck closer to him, fearing that Fang Chen might attempt to hurt him.


    Is that so Fang Chenughed.


    By now, it had be apparent to the Greenpine martial artists that something was not right. They took a closer look and were shocked to discover Fang Chens identity.


    Its Fang Chen!


    Whats he doing here?!


    They quickly put down their meat and alcohol and grabbed their weaponsswords, sabers, spears, and bows. They stared at Fang Chen with wary eyes.


    Fang Chen, why are you here?


    A person emanating a powerful aura flitted over. His swift and fluid legwork made it look as if he was gliding across the air without touching the ground. This was the ability of a Ki Control expert!


    Master Tie Ma! Li Huangs eyes lit up in relief.


    This person was one of the Greenpine Superior Dojos two early Ki Control experts. He used to be a famous swordsman in Greenpine Country, but he threw his lot with Wolf Marshall Xiao. He was assigned to Greenpine Superior Dojo alongside Xiao Tianci.


    Li Huangs delight onlysted a brief moment before he remembered something and eximed, Be careful, Master Tie Ma! Dojo Master Xiao has already died in Fang Chens hands!


    What?! Dojo Master Xiao has died in Fang Chens hands?


    How is that possible?


    Isnt Fang Chens ki sea destroyed? He should be crippled!


    The Greenpine martial artists present were astounded.


    Without any hesitation, Master Tie Ma drew his treasured sword and shed it. Twelve Greenpine martial artists were decapitated by him in a single sweep.


    He didnt just stop there. He flitted around like a specter, iming the lives of multiple Greenpine martial artists with each swing of his sword. Within moments, dozens had already died in his hands, and this included both Ki Condensation and Ki Explosion martial artists.


    Fresh blood flowed down Tie Mas sword and dripped on the ground.


    Li Huang was baffled. He couldnt understand what had just happened. <em>Why would Tie Ma kill his own people?</em>


    Li Huangs guards were baffled too. They were astounded by the means of a Ki Control expert. Deep down, they knew none of them would have been able to withstand Tie Mas sh.


    Young master, I couldnt return to the Shadow Courtyard that day as Xiao Tianci was looking. With a flick of his wrist, Tie Ma swung off the fresh blood on his sword. He walked up to Fang Chen, sped his fist, and bowed.


    You have worked hard all these years. It must have been difficult watching this everyday. The Greenpine Superior Dojo must be overflowing with resentment by now, Fang Chen muttered.


    Youre the one who has worked hard, young master, Tie Ma replied.


    I knew about this, but I didnt have the power to stop it Fang Chen replied self-deprecatingly.


    You mustnt me yourself, young master! They were unlucky. Many more Great Xia civilians would have died if not for you! Tie Ma said.


    Their conversation left Li Huang dumbfounded. He felt like someone had thrown a hammer into his mind.


    Y-you The trembling Li Huang pointed his finger at Tie Ma and Fang Chen.


    The Great Xia Shadow Guards are going to be mobilized once more. Your mission has ended. Youll return to the team from today onward, Fang Chen patted Tie Mas shoulder.


    Yes, young master, Tie Ma replied.


    He tried his best to maintain hisposure, but the slight quiver in his voice gave him away. It had been years since Fang Chen nted him in Greenpine Country. He slowly rose through the ranks and eventually infiltrated the Wolf Army. He even won the First Wolf Marshalls favor.


    Thanks to that, he was able to supply Fang Chen with plenty of crucial intelligence that changed the trajectory of many battles.


    He knew he was important to Fang Chen, but it wasnt easy being in the enemy camp. He couldnt do anything when Greenpine martial artists tortured Great Xia civilians. Deep down, there was nothing more he wanted than to ughter these brutes, but he had to hold himself back because he was a spy!


    But today, he could finally return to the team!


    Young master, I have killed thest one. There should be no more Ki Control experts from Greenpine Country in the capital. What should we do next? Tie Maposed himself and asked with a deep voice.


    We shant spare anyone, Fang Chen said. Our Great Xia doesnt need to lower its head to Greenpine anymore. Our first step is to purge the capital of the venom that has taken root here.


    What about these people? Tie Ma looked at Li Huang and the others.


    War God Fang, I was wrong! I am a Great Xia civilian too! On the ount that my aunt and your aunt are His Majestys consort, please spare me! Li Huangs knees fell to the ground, and he desperately kowtowed to Fang Chen.


    The guards were at a loss, but they decided to kneel down and lower their heads too.


    I think youd rather be from Greenpine. Make sure to reincarnate in the right country in your next life. Donte to Great Xia anymore, Fang Chen said with a smile.


    Li Huang immediately raised his head, revealing a venomous re. Fang Chen, are you really going to kill me? My aunt wont spare you if you kill me! You shouldnt think that you can do as you please just because youre the War God! His Majesty has long viewed you as an eyesore!


    Psh!


    Tie Ma shed his sword, severing Li Huang into two at the waist.


    ARGHHHH! Li Huang cried in agony.


    He didnt die right away, but the excruciating pain and the awareness he would bleed out and die greatly terrified him. There was no worse torture than that to an arrogant scion like him.


    The guards froze in ce. Cold sweat dripped from their heads.


    Lackeys who help their mastermit evil dont deserve mercy too, Tie Ma sneered as he decapitated the guards.


    Fang Chen, His Majesty was right about you! You do harbor traitorous intentions by raising a private army! Wait till His Majesty finds out about it! Youll be joining me very soon. You cant begin to imagine just how terrifying His Majesty is. Hahahaha! Li Huangughed maniacally, as he looked at Fang Chen with eyes of ridicule.


    Secondster, hisughter slowly softened till his eyes turned dull. Li Huang had died.


    Have you prepared an identity for yourself in the capital? Fang Chen asked.


    I havent, Tie Ma replied.


    You can camp at my manor for the time being. Fang Chen smiled.


    Thank you, young master! Tie Ma was excited to hear that, as this meant that he could frequently meet the young master!


    Fang Chen walked out of the Greenpine Superior Dojo alone. By then, the area was already crowded with Great Xias civilians and martial artists. They eagerly asked one another what was happening inside.


    You havent heard yet? War God Fang charged in with his men! I heard the dojo master has already been killed!


    Really?!


    Its absolutely true!


    What are we waiting for?


    A schr rolled up his sleeves and charged into Greenpine Superior Dojo with a roar.


    A vendor passed his child to his wife and marched into the Greenpine Superior Dojo with reddened eyes, holding nothing but a carrying pole in his hand.


    More and more people charged in. Some were ordinary civilians. Some were leather-armored soldiers. Some were sword-wielding martial artists. They came from different walks of life, but in this instant, they share the same identity.


    They were civilians of Great Xia!


    It didnt take long for Greenpine Superior Dojo to go up in mes. The fire was so strong that everyone was forced to retreat. However, not a single Greenpine martial artist was to be seen.


    War God Fang, theres no living Greenpine martial artist left inside, but some managed to escape, You Longchang watched the Greenpine Superior Dojo burn down as he reported with a suppressed voice.


    Today will be a restless night. Fang Chen chuckled softly.

 Chapter 14: Left in the Dust

    Chapter 14: Left in the Dust


    Nights in Great Xias capital were bustling and prosperous. Despite the huge setback Great Xia suffered from its defeat five years ago, the extravagance and depravity only intensified.


    Upon nightfall, brilliantmps would light up along the Great Xia River, and songstresses would sing enchanting melodies from boat taverns.


    The domineering Greenpine martial artists loved to frequent this ce, but todays guests swiftly noticed their conspicuous absence. While they were wondering about this, someone arrived with news that Fang Chen had led his men to destroy the Greenpine Superior Dojo.


    This piece of news immediately made this night an exceptional one for Great Xia.


    Most people thought news traveled the fastest in taverns and teahouses, but none couldpete with the entertainment districts. Any news that appeared here would spread like the gue, swiftly reaching all echelons of society, from the nobles to themoners.


    Gathered inside Great Xia Rivers most famous flower boat, the Jade Fairy Boat, were eight young masters. They had booked the entire boat, which hinted at their powerful backgrounds.


    Everyone, what do you think about Fang Chens recent deed today?


    A dashing young man opened up his fan as he admired the graceful performance of the dance artisans. He was Ye Qinghe, the son of the Minister of Military Personnel. His father was higher ranked than the other young masters fathers, so he rightfully took the center seat in the group.


    Hes too reckless. I heard from my father that Fang Chen has disyed exceptional means in the imperial pce today, killing a Wolf Armysmander in a move and driving Celestial Xiao out of the capital, but we shouldnt forget how he was defeated by Wolf Marshall Xiao back when he was at his peak!


    Indeed! And he dares massacre all Greenpine martial artists in the capital. Greenpine Country wont hesitate to dispatch Wolf Marshall Xiao if they learn about it. Who knows how many of our civilians will have to die in order to cate his anger?


    West Tiger Barracks You Longchang is out of his mind too. How can he support Fang Chen? He should have thought twice about it. His Majesty would have long made a move if we could kill Greenpine martial artists! Speaking of which, why hasnt there been any movement from His Majestys side?


    His Majesty isnt the only one holding still. The other factions are taking a back seat too as if watching the show. But if they dont move, its only a matter of time before the fire reaches them. Brother Ye, what did Minister Ye say?


    My father said to watch the situation first, Ye Qinghe replied.


    It looks like Fang Chens fearsome reputation back then has intimidated many Its one thing if hes still a cripple, but he actually recovered his martial cultivation


    Great Xias greatest mistake was to allow Fang Chen to rise above the Ministry of Military Personnel and even His Majesty himself! Thats why he got arrogant. In a bid to rue merit, he led 600,000 of our Great Xia good men to their death!


    Brother Ye, I heard you recently made a huge advancement in your martial cultivation. Themanders in the capital are full of praise for you. Why dont you step forward and rece Fang Chen? Someone looked at Ye Qinghe with eyes filled with anticipation.


    I have indeed made significant advancement. I was lucky to stumble upon a wandering daoist, who bestowed me with a golden pill. My martial cultivation grew considerably after consuming the pill, Ye Qinghe said with augh. But Im still nowhere near Fang Chen.


    Nowhere near Fang Chen


    Those words brought the crowd back to five years ago, when the most renowned phrase in the capital was <em>Left in the dust by Fang Chen</em>.


    Still, Fang Chens action goes against the current tides. Thus, Id like you to liaise with your family members to help me protect one person. As long as he doesnt die, there might still be room to reverse what Fang Chen did today, Ye Qinghe said.


    The crowd was intrigued. <em>Who could be so powerful as to be able to reverse todays massacre?</em>


    Ye Qinghe stood up and said, Brother Xiao, please enter. You can be assured my brothers here wont sell you out.


    A young man walked into the room with a livid face. The others were startled to see him.


    He was Dojo Master Xiao Tiancis son, Xiao En!


    They would have never expected Xiao En to still be alive and appear on the Jade Fairy Boat on top of that. They recalled Ye Qinghes earlier words and swiftly understood his intention.


    Brother Ye, Im grateful for your help. If not for you, Id have also died on Great Xias streets, Xiao En sped his fist with a grim expression. Ill repay this debt when I return to Greenpine.


    Youre too courteous, Brother Xiao. None of us agree with Fang Chens actions. Great Xia and Greenpine ought to work together like friends, not engage in war. Thats not beneficial to either of us, Ye Qinghe said. Jade Fairy, why arent you here yet? Im hosting an important guest. Do not let him wait!


    He beckoned Xiao En to sit down before introducing the young men seated in this table to him. Shortly after, a white-robed woman with bare feet walked into the room and began her dance.


    She had a ravishing face. Her skin was fair like snow, and her eyes twinkled like stars. Her smile was intoxicating, and her movements were ethereal like a true fairy. Drunk on the performance, Ye Qinghe closely followed her every move.


    As expected of Great Xia Rivers most famous dance artisan, Jade Fairy. What a captivating performance, Xiao En said, but his eyes remained cold.


    Not only did the dancing beauty not dispel his exhaustion, but it even evoked his memories about the Greenpine Superior Dojo being enveloped by mes. He tightly clenched his fists. <em>Greenpine will definitely return this favor!</em>


    While enchanting performances were being put up on the Great Xia River, a massacre was being carried out in Great Xias capital. Greenpine martial artists were being hunted down one after another.


    At daybreak, inside the ruins of Greenpine Superior Dojo, Fang Chen was seated on an intact stone chair with some talismans in front of him. He had drawn more Purple Lightning Talismans over the night, so he now had a total of 16 of them.


    He also drew three of the Protection Talisman, the Flitting Talisman, and the Strength Talisman. They were a lot easier to draw aspared to the Purple Lightning Talisman.


    My spirit ki has be several times more concentrated than before. I should be able to try forging the second immortal vein tomorrow and advance to the second stage of Ki Refinement.


    As he kept the talismans on the table, a person rushed over from a distance away.


    It was You Longchang, whose body was covered in blood. He felt like he was in a dream. <em>I never thought a day woulde when I would personally receive orders from Fang Chen to y Greenpine martial artists.</em>


    War God Fang, we have in all the Greenpine martial artists we can find. We did a tally, and there are two people unounted for, You Longchang said with a suppressed voice. One of them is Tie Ma, a Ki Control expert, and the other is Xiao En, Xiao Tiancis son. Its as if they have vanished from the face of the world. We cant find any traces of them at all.


    I already know where they are. Leave them to me. You must be exhausted, Commander You. Head home and have a good rest. Fang Chen smiled.

 Chapter 15: How Can Commonfolk Be Compared to Our Young Master?

    Chapter 15: How Can Commonfolk Be Compared to Our Young Master?


    You Longchang was indeed tired, so he respectfully bowed once more to Fang Chen before taking his leave.


    A person quietly appeared beside Fang Chen. Looking at him with a sympathetic expression, she slowly approached him and gently massaged his shoulders. Young master, Ye Qinghe has taken Xiao En. Hes making use of this opportunity to fawn on Greenpine Country while dealing with you.


    You didnt need toe personally. I have already received the news. The people of Great Xia might swallow me alive if they see you here. Fang Chen chuckled.


    The woman blushed. Young master, what are you saying


    Youre Jade Fairy; your suitors easily line up from Great Xias capital to the doors of Greenpine Countrys Xiao n, Fang Chen said.


    How can thosemonfolk bepared to young master? Jade Fairy harrumphed. Young master, Tie Ma has returned to the team. When can I finish my mission and return to your side? Id rather be your maid, massaging your back and washing your legs, than to smile at those disgusting insects.


    Soon. Fang Chen smiled. He took out a Flitting Talisman, Strength Talisman, and Protection Talisman each and passed them to Jade Fairy, saying, Were in a dangerous period, and you havent reached second stage Ki Explosion yet. Activate them with your ki if anything happens. Theyll help you.


    This is? Jade Fairys interest was piqued.


    Talismans. Your young master has taken a step into immortal cultivation. You can think of it as an alternative path, Fang Chen replied. He suddenly paused. Someonesing. You should leave.


    Ill be taking my leave. Jade Fairy stowed away the talismans before taking her leave. Despite her lower martial cultivation, her proficiency in movement skills was amazing.


    Xu Ge slowly pushed a wheelchair over from afar.


    As the sun came up, the civilians gathering around to watch themotion gradually increased. They couldnt help but be perplexed when they saw Fang Chen still seated amidst the ruins.


    Chener, who are you waiting for? Fang Chens second uncle, Fang Cangyou, asked.


    Yesterday, the empress arrived at the Fang n and informed them that Fang Chen had regained his martial cultivation and chased Fairy Xiao out of the capital. Following that, they learned that Fang Chen had his a group of men to purge the capital of Greenpine martial artists.


    Due to that, the Fang n had been busy for the entire night.


    Fang Cangyou hadnt slept a wink. As soon as he was done with his work, he had Xu Ge bring him over to meet Fang Chen.


    Xu Ge, why did you bring my second uncle to a ce like this? Fang Chen frowned. Take him back to the manor.


    Yes, young master. Xu Ge began pushing Fang Cangyou back.


    Wait, wait! Fang Cangyou eximed.


    However, Xu Ge only obeyed Fang Chens orders. He paid no heed to Fang Cangyous words.


    Chener, let me speak my piece first! Fang Cangyou roared angrily.


    Go ahead, second uncle. Fang Chen directed a nod at Xu Ge, and thetter halted.


    I have ties with the Court of Great Brilliance. I used to have a post there. Ill wait here with you for them, Fang Cangyou said. They wont dare to cause a fuss as long as Im here.


    He had already guessed whom Fang Chen was waiting for.


    There had been no reaction from the imperial pce and the other factions regarding yesterdays matter, but there would be a silent showdown after daybreak, and Fang Chen would be at the center of it all.


    Xu Ge, take second uncle back to the manor, Fang Chen instructed.


    Fang Cangyou flew into a rage. He swore and cursed, but Xu Ge ignored him as if he was deaf. Soon, the two of them had left the area.


    Shortly after they disappeared from the street, the Court of Great Brilliances constables arrived from the other direction and surrounded the ruins of the destroyed Greenpine Superior Dojo. These ck-clothed constables had wary expressions as they tightly gripped their sabers.


    Their superior, under the escort of a few constables, quickly made his way up to Fang Chen.


    War God Fang. The official from the Court of Great Brilliance sped his fist and bowed.


    Take this list. The names that have been ticked are already dead. Take your time to tally it.


    Fang Chen passed over a piece of paper filled with words. He had written this list in between his talisman drawing. Tie Mas name was also inside, but it had been ticked.


    The official from the Court of Great Brilliance looked at the list, and his face slowly turned pale. The constables with him also exchanged looks. There was a sliver of respect in their eyes when they looked at Fang Chen.


    Of a thousand Greenpine martial artists, only one survived The official from the Court of Great Brilliance smiled bitterly. War God Fang, youre putting me in a spot. Im under orders to apprehend you to the Court of Great Brilliance for investigation.


    The Court of Great Brilliance was Great Xias enforcement arm. Unlike the Bureau of Justice, the Court of Great Brilliance only dealt with people of high standing. In particr, the Court Master specifically handled cases rting to the imperial family and their rtives.


    The current Court Master was the incumbent emperors younger brother, the Fifth King.


    Theres still one alive, Fang Chen replied. Lets deal with him first before I follow you to the Court of Great Brilliance.


    The official pursed his lips. War God Fang, please dont make things difficult for me. Ill be punished if I dont take you down today.


    Did the Court Master specifically state when you should bring me back? Fang Chen asked.


    Uh The official was caught off guard by the question. <em>The Court Master doesnt seem to have mentioned anything on that front. </em>


    He didnt say anything, right? Dont worry, Ill follow you to the Court of Great Brilliance today. You maye with me if youre worried, Fang Chen said as he got up and walked away.


    Milord, what do we do? a constable asked with a suppressed voice.


    I dare not forcefully apprehend him. Lets be patient since War God Fang said that hell follow us back once he settles this matter, the official replied.


    Just then, a constable rushed over and reported, Milord, Imperial Uncle Lis son, Li Huang, was also in Greenpine Superior Dojo, and he has been severed from the waist down


    This will be troublesome the official murmured with a frown as he followed Fang Chen with his men.


    As they marched on, they realized that the scenery around them looked familiar. In the end, Fang Chen stopped right in front of a grand manor.


    Isnt this the Minister of MIlitary Personnels manor?! The official was stumped.


    By then, Fang Chen had already knocked on the doors.


    In the manor, the Minister of Military Personnel, Ye Dongming, was having a meal with his family. As their n observed the custom of silence over food, no sound could be heard over the dining table.


    Old master W-War God Fang is knocking on our door an old servant ran over with a flustered expression.


    ng!


    A few people dropped their bowls on the table, but they quickly snapped out of it and turned to Ye Dongming.


    <em>Whats Fang Chen doing here? Wasnt he ughtering Greenpine martial artistsst night? Why did hee to their manor? Could he be harboring a grudge over that matter back then?</em>


    Ye Qinghe turned to Ye Dongming with feignedposure. Father, should we meet him?


    What business does Fang Chen have with me? Ye Dongming frowned. Secondster, he slowly got up. Ill meet him. Let me see what he is up to.

 Chapter 16: Relentless Obstruction

    Chapter 16: Relentless Obstruction


    Fang Chen went to the Minister of Military Personnels manor?


    Is he still harboring a grudge over that? But Ye Dongming cant be med for that. His subordinate was the one who messed things up and delivered Fang Chens military ration elsewhere


    Is there any news from His Majesty? Why hasnt the Court of Great Brilliance apprehended Fang Chen yet?!


    The upper echelons of Great Xias capital had dispatched their men to keep a close eye on Fang Chens movements, so that they could receive thetest updates.


    The manor doors opened. Ye Dongming and his family quietly met eyes with Fang Chen.


    Does War God Fang think that Xiao En is hiding inside the Minister of Military Personnels manor? The official from the Court of Great Brilliance widened his eyes in rm.


    The Minister of Military Personnel should have no reason to house the remnants of the Greenpine martial artists. He would be making an enemy out of Fang Chen if so, as thetter had already dered that he was going to purge the capital of them.


    It has been a while, War God Fang. It has been hard to meet you ever since you stopped attending morning assembly, though well likely meet in the imperial court very soon. May I know the reason behind your abrupt visit today? Ye Dongming asked.


    The Ye nsmen assessed Fang Chen. To their relief, he had lost much of the imposing air he used tomand back then. This told them that the man standing before them wasnt the same Fang Chen from five years ago. He wasnt all-powerful anymore, so there was nothing to fear.


    I have given it a lot of thought over thest five years. I dont intend to bother with the imperial court anymore. Fang Chen shook his head. Im afraid you wont meet me in the imperial court, after all.


    <em>What?!</em>


    Not only were the Ye nsmen stunned, but those from the Court of Great Brilliance were dumbstruck too. The spectating civilians, academics, and martial artists couldnt believe what they had just heard as well.


    <em>War God Fang isnt going to bother with the imperial court? Doesnt this mean that he doesnt intend to take charge of the military anymore?</em>


    Ye Qinghes breathing hastened. He intently stared at Fang Chen as if assessing how sincere thetter was.


    War God Fang is humoring me. You have regained your martial cultivation. It shouldnt be long before His Majesty tasks you with the important responsibility of leading our soldiers against Greenpine Country, Ye Dongming said deeply.


    Take it as if Im joking then, Minister Ye, Fang Chen casually replied with a smile.


    Ye Dongmings eyebrows shot up. War God Fang, what brings you here today?


    Im here to demand a man from your Ye n, Fang Chen replied.


    <em>Demand a man? Who do we have that warranted Fang Chen personally knocking on our door to ask for? </em>Ye Dongming and the others were perplexed.


    However, Ye Qinghes eyes flickered in a panic. He couldnt believe what he had just heard. <em>How does Fang Chen know that Xiao En is in the Ye Manor? Did someone in the Jade Fairy Boat leak the news?</em>


    This thought enraged Ye Qinghe. He didnt think those artisans would dare to reveal the content of their conversation, as they knew his identity. The culprit had to be those who shared the same table as himst night.


    <em>But who could it be? </em>Ye Qinghe wondered as faces shed across his mind.


    War God Fang, who does our Ye n have that warrants you to personally knock on our door? Could you have gotten the wrong ce? Ye Dongming asked with a polite smile. He nced at the official and constables by the side and frowned.


    Im looking for Xiao Tiancis son, Xiao En. Hes in your Ye Manor. Minister Ye, Ill leave as soon as you hand him over to me, Fang Chen said.


    Wait! Ye Dongming was astounded. Xiao Tiancis son, Xiao En? War God Fang, please watch your words. Theres no way Id take in someone like that!


    That was a Greenpine martial artist, not to mention Dojo Master Xiao Tiancis son!


    Should the civilians think that he was providing refuge to Xiao En, their ns reputation would immediately fall to the gutters, and rocks and smelly eggs would be hurled at their manor all day long.


    As expected, amotion broke out amongst the spectators, as they began pointing their fingers at the Ye n. The schrs began berating them, while the martial artists rolled up their sleeves.


    <em>Are these people from the Court of Great Brilliance after Xiao En too? Fang Chen would never make an empty im. What makes him say that Xiao En is in my manor </em>Ye Dongmings mind quickly whirred into action.


    Ye Qinghe could hardly maintain his expression. Small beads of cold sweat dotted his forehead. He confidently thought there was no way Fang Chen could have known Xiao Ens whereabouts, but it only took a night for thetter toe knocking on his door.


    This sent him into a panic. He hadnt made preparations for this yet


    Lord Ye, if youre confused, you may consider asking your son for rification, Fang Chen politely offered advice.


    Ye Dongming immediately turned to Ye Qinghe with a flicker of rage in his eyes. Qinghe, have you met with Xiao En?


    Father, I have not met with Xiao En. Ye Qinghe shook his head. He turned to Fang Chen and sped his fist, saying, Brother Fang, Im not sure where you got the news from, but you might have been taken for a fool.


    Indeed Could War God Fang be mistaken?


    Theres no way our Minister of Military Personnel will harbor a Greenpine martial artist.


    War God Fang is not omniscient; he cant possibly know everything. Now that I think about it, I recall there being a grudge between War God Fang and the Minister of Military Personnel.


    Could War God Fang be making use of this opportunity to settle old grudges?


    Such murmurs could be heard from the surroundings.


    Ye Dongmings face darkened. He looked into Fang Chens eyes and said, War God Fang, I concede that I have let you down regarding that matter, but I have reported it to His Majesty and received punishment for it. You shouldnt frame me and sully my reputation over that.


    Minister Ye, would you allow me to search the premises of your manor? Fang Chen asked.


    Fang Chen, youre getting overboard! This is the Minister of Military Personnels manor, not a ce where you cane and go as you please. Do you honestly think that youre still the War God? Youre just a normal civilian now; you dont even have the right to enter the imperial court, Ye Qinghe roared.


    However, to Ye Qinghes shock, his father gestured for him to keep quiet.


    War God Fang, my manor isnt too big. Youre free to search the area as you like. However, I expect an exnation if you cant find any traces of Xiao En.


    Ill be following them to the Court of Great Brilliance if I cant find Xiao En. What other exnation do you require? Fang Chen gestured to the official standing not too far away.


    Ye Dongming nodded in realization. <em>So they are here to apprehend Fang Chen.</em> That took a load off his heart.


    Very well. Go ahead, War God Fang.


    Father?! Ye Qinghe panicked.


    We havent done a thing, so what do we have to fear? Ye Dongming coldly harrumphed.


    Ye Qinghe fell silent. He couldnt say anything more, or else he would be giving himself away.


    Just as Fang Chen was about to enter, another group of people rushed over and stationed themselves in front of the manor. The leader got off his steed and cidly looked at Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen, you cant enter the Minister of Military Personnels manor.


    Your Highness?! Ye Dongming hurriedly bowed in astonishment.


    The crowd was startled too. Who could have thought the crown prince would get involved too?

 Chapter 17: Searching Via Astral Projection

    Chapter 17: Searching Via Astral Projection


    Your Highness, why cant I enter the Minister of Military Personnels manor? Fang Chen asked as he eyed the crown prince with his grayish-white eyes.


    Contempt shed across the crown princes eyes as he said, You are a criminal for wreaking havoc in the Greenpine Superior Dojost night. What right does a criminal have to step into the manor of our Minister of Military Personnel?


    The official from the Court of Great Brilliance,e here for a moment. Fang Chen beckoned with his hand.


    Taken aback, the official worriedly walked up to them. He first bowed to the crown prince before turning to Fang Chen.


    Youre more well-versed with thew than us. Am I currently a criminal? Fang Chen asked.


    The crown prince looked at the official with sharp eyes. Whats your name?


    I am Rectifier Yuan Zhuang from the Court of Great Brilliance, Yuan Zhuang respectfully replied.


    Good. You better exin to War God Fang whether hes a criminal or not. The crown prince nodded as he eyed Yuan Zhuang menacingly. He didnt bother to be subtle since Fang Chen couldnt see.


    There was no need for him to conceal it since Fang Chen couldnt see.


    While Yuan Zhuang was thinking it through, the constables beside him were profusely sweating. Secondster, he slowly spoke up, ording to the rules, War God Fang has to first enter the Court of Great Brilliance and be deemed guilty of his charges before hes considered a criminal. Since he hasnt been to the Court of Great Brilliance yet, he still isnt a criminal from the eyes of thew.


    The crown princesplexion turned awful. He red at Yuan Zhuang.


    Yuan Zhuang revealed a bitter smile, knowing that he had offended the crown prince. <em>Damn it! Theres no way I would have taken on this ursed job if I knew it would turn out like this.</em>


    Did you hear that, Your Highness? Fang Chen asked with a smile. Minister Ye has agreed to let me search his manor. If Your Highness has no other grounds to deny me, Id have to ask you to let me through.


    He paused for a second before adding, Could it be that Your Highness is aware that Xiao En is hiding in the manor and wishes to protect him, so you decided to hinder my investigation?


    The civilians expressions visibly changed upon hearing those words.


    Search my manor all you want, but dont you frame His Highness. Theres no way His Highness would protect a Greenpine martial artist!


    Very well, Fang Chen said before entering the manor.


    The crown prince coldly watched Fang Chens back as he told Yuan Zhuang, The Court of Great Brilliance sent you here to apprehend him, but you allowed him to roam free and even barge into the Minister of Military Personnels manor. This is a breach of duty.


    Your Highness, Im in a spot too. None of us are a match for War God Fang if things get ugly. Ive heard that War God Fang has regained his martial cultivation, making him the only fourth stage Ki Manifestation expert of our Great Xia Yuan Zhuang said in resignation.


    The imperial court would have to assign an army of at least a thousand men armed with the best equipment to him if they truly wanted him to apprehend such a person, but even so, he still wouldnt be confident that he could capture Fang Chen alive.


    Our Great Xia is in decline because our imperial court is filled with useless people like you. The crown prince harrumphed before leading his people into the Minister of Military Personnels manor too.


    Yuan Zhuangsplexion turned awful. A few secondster, heughed self-deprecatingly before saying, Lets go in too. War God Fang wouldnt havee here for no reason. Lets see if theres a Greenpine remnant here.


    He led his constables into the manor too.


    Shortly after Fang Chen entered the manor, he suddenly stood still on a single spot.


    Ye Qinghe smirked as he secretly heaved a sigh of relief. You might possess incredible means, but you arent an immortal. Theres no way you can find Xiao En as long as he conceals himself well.


    He had lost himself earlier out of a guilty conscience, but his heart was put at ease now that he remembered the measures he had taken. There was no way War God Fang could find Xiao En, at least not in the spur of a moment.


    War God Fang, when do you intend to start searching? My manor is a small Four Entrance Residence. There arent many ces to hide here. Ye Dongming smiled and stroked his beard upon seeing that Fang Chen had fallen still.


    But Fang Chen didnt reply.


    That left Ye Dongming feeling awkward.


    The crown prince sneered, War God Fang, arent you here to look for someone? You do know that you wont find anything standing here.


    There was still no response from Fang Chen.


    One was the Minister of Military Personnel, whereas the other was the crown prince. They were two highly important figures in Great Xia. Yet, Fang Chen disregarded the two of them as if they were nothing.


    The crowd was a little shaken.


    So this is War God Fang! Im trulycking, Yuan Zhuang thought.


    Others couldnt tell, but Fang Chen had drawn out his soul via and was searching every inch of the manor from above. Through his soul, he could see, or rather, sense, much more than his eyes.


    There were thirty rooms in the manor, and Xiao En was not in any of them.


    However, Fang Chen didnt lose his patience. He was certain Xiao En was inside the manor, and someone would have informed him if thetter had escaped.


    Secondster, he noticed something amiss with a fake hill not too far away. He charged into the fake hill with his soul and discovered a hidden chamber. Xiao En was seated cross-legged in the hidden chamber, his ears twitching as he listened to the movements outside.


    Fang Chen, Ill never forgive you for killing my father. Ill definitely kill you with my own hands in the future. As for Ye Qinghe, how dare a Great Xia scum use me as leverage for his future? What a joke! Xiao En uttered with a vicious glint in his eyes.


    Fang Chen chuckled at that sight before pulling his soul back into his body.


    Minister Ye, thats a unique fake hill you have. Who did you hire to construct it? Id like to have one in the Fang Manor too. Fang Chen pointed at the fake hill not too far away and smiled.


    Ye Dongming frowned. Ye Qinghe started sweating profusely. The crown prince had a nonchnt expression which suggested that he was unaware of the fake hills secret, but that didnt stop Fang Chen from doubting him.


    <em>The crown prince is likely the one who ordered Ye Qinghe to protect Xiao En.</em>


    War God Fang, are you searching for a person or admiring my scenery? Ye Dongming sneered.


    I am both searching for a person and admiring the scenery. If I hadnte here in person, I would have never known that theres a secret behind your fake hill, Fang Chen said.


    With a wave of his hand, he unleashed a lightning bolt on the fake hill.


    The fake hill was blown into smithereens, revealing the door of a secret chamber underneath.


    The crowd was startled. Half of it was due to Fang Chens means, whereas the other half was due to the revtion of a secret chamber beneath the fake hill.


    Ye Dongming was stunned. Even he was unaware of the secret chamber beneath the fake hill.

 Chapter 18: No One Can Stop Me

    Chapter 18: No One Can Stop Me


    Whispers echoed from the surroundings. The servants and maids of the manor were shocked, as they had never known about the secret chamber beneath the fake hill despite having lived here for many years.


    Ye Dongming turned to Ye Qinghe with a livid face. Only his son could have created a secret chamber under the fake hill without him noticing.


    Yuan Zhuang was startled too. He had wanted to ask Fang Chen how he was going to prove there was a secret chamber beneath the fake hill when thetter utterly destroyed the fake hill. It was a relief they didnt forcefully apprehend him, or else he would have destroyed them.


    Rectifier Yuan, Ill trouble you to open this door for me, Fang Chen said.


    Yuan Zhuang first nced at Ye Dongming to confirm he had no objection before gesturing to his men to do the job. Two constables tried to open the door, but it wouldnt budge. In the end, they had to draw their des to chop it into pieces.


    Xiao En, do you want toe out yourself, or should I drag you out? Fang Chen smiled.


    Theres no need to trouble you. Ille out myself, a forceful voice echoed from within.


    A tall, brawny man slowly walked out from the secret chamber. He red at Fang Chen with vicious eyes reminiscent of a wolf. It was as if his deep-seated hatred had turned corporeal in his eyes.


    Xiao En really is here?!


    The crowd was appalled.


    The manors servants and maids might not know him, but Ye Dongming, Yuan Zhuang, and the others recognized him in a single nce.


    Xiao En had inherited Xiao Tiancis talents, and he reachedte Ki Explosion at a young age. He was famous among Greenpine Countrys younger martial artists, and it was certain he would be a Ki Control expert in the future.


    Ye Dongmingsplexion couldnt get any worse as he coldly eyed Ye Qinghe.


    Ye Qinghe was covered in cold sweat, and his eyes swam around in a panic. He instinctively turned to the crown prince for help.


    To think Xiao En is truly hiding here However, Minister Ye, I believe you have done the right thing. War God Fang had gone on a rampagest night, ughtering Greenpine martial artists at a whim. With Xiao Ens survival, we might still be able to mend ties with Greenpine Country, the crown prince said.


    Xiao En thought that he was doomed, but the crown princes attitude sparked a ray of hope in him. He turned to the crown prince and sped his fist, saying, Your Highness, there has been peace between our two countries over thest few years. There might have been arguments, but those were small fights. Yet, Fang Chen ughtered our Greenpine martial artists and killed my father yesterday. I fear this matter will spark a war between both our countries!


    Rest assured, Xiao En. I have my eyes on this matter. The Court of Great Brilliance has dispatched men to apprehend Fang Chen. After we deal with him, Ill personally exin things to Greenpine Country, the crown prince replied.


    Thatd be for the best. Xiao En nodded as he concealed his vengeful eyes.


    He didnt want to reveal his emotions if he could survive this ordeal. He would be in danger as long as he remained in Great Xias capital. There was always a risk that the crown prince might renege on his promise.


    The crown prince turned to Fang Chen and said, Stop erring, Fang Chen. Follow Yuan Zhuang back to the Court of Great Brilliance. I wont allow you toy a hand on Xiao En.


    Fang Chen burst intoughter. Your Highness, are you still hoping Greenpine Country will make peace with us? Haa, your stance matters not to me. I made a deration yesterday, promising to purge the capital of all Greenpine martial artists. I am a man of my word, and no one can stop me.


    Even me? The crown prince narrowed his eyes.


    Boom!


    There was a sh of lightning.


    Xiao En lowered his head in disbeliefhis lower body had been charred beyond recognition. He let out an indignant roar as his life force finally burned out.


    Everyone was bbergasted. They hadnt expected Fang Chen to obstinately kill Xiao En despite the crown princes obstruction.


    The experts guarding the crown princes side warily eyed Fang Chen as they instinctively took half a step forward to guard the crown princes vitals.


    Yuan Zhuang, Id like to borrow your de. Fang Chen raised his hand.


    Yuan Zhuang snapped out of his daze and hurriedly handed his sword to Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen took the sword and sliced off Xiao Ens head before carrying it out of the manor.


    Outside the manor, there was a sizable crowd waiting for the oue. Their eyes widened in shock when they saw Fang Chen walking out with a bloodied head in his hand. <em>Whose head is that? Is it Xiao Ens head or does it belong to someone else from the manor?</em>


    War God Fang, now that you have killed Xiao En, Id like you to follow me back to the Court of Great Brilliance Yuan Zhuang said bitterly.


    Fang Chen smiled. He tossed Xiao Ens head on the ground and watched as it rolled into the distance. This was the man who had suggested using the civilians of Great Xia as live targets.


    I have exacted vengeance for you, but this is far from enough Fang Chen murmured.


    Secondster, he turned to Yuan Zhuang and said, Lets go. I shant make things hard for you.


    Thank you, War God Fang! Yuan Zhuang breathed a sigh of relief. He felt so grateful that he would willingly call Fang Chen daddy in this instant.


    Shortly after Fang Chen left with Yuan Zhuang, the crown prince left the manor too, and the manors doors mmed shut.


    A martial artist mustered his courage to examine the head. When he saw Xiao Ens aggrieved face, he eximed out loud, Its Xiao En! Xiao Tiancis son, Xiao En!


    The most arrogant Greenpine martial artist in the capital?


    It really is him! I would have never expected our Minister of Military Personnel to be harboring a Greenpine martial artist. Hes not just going against War God Fang but all of us!


    The crowd was riled up. A few people had already picked up the items around them to hurl at the manor.


    Broil Xiao Ens head in a soup! My son is sick with his lungs. He might recover from drinking that! someone suddenly shouted.


    All of a sudden, people started fighting over Xiao Ens head. They thought that consuming the blood and flesh of such vile people could cleanse away the demons guing their bodies. As the saying went, curb evil with evil!


    Meanwhile, Ye Dongming had just received a report from a servant that someone had hurled an egg into their manor, and his face turned livid. He dismissed everyone except for Ye Qinghe.


    Tell me, Qinghe. Just why?


    Ye Qinghe gritted his teeth and replied, Father, this is His Highness will. Since Fang Chen sought to kill the Greenpine martial artists, he decided that he would save them.


    Why does His Highness want to deal with Fang Chen? Ye Dongming frowned. Theres nothing to be gained from that!


    His Highness wants the world to know that Fang Chen is capable of doing wrong. Only that can stop Fang Chen from rising up once more, Ye Qinghe grimly replied.


    Is His Highness worried that Fang Chen will grasp hold of military power once more and threaten his position? Ye Dongming frowned. But the Third Prince has been held hostage in Greenpine Country all this while Does that mean hes about to return?


    Most people knew War God Fang was on good terms with the Third Prince. When Fang Chen fell in defeat five years ago, the Third Prince offered to be a hostage in Greenpine Country. His only request was for the emperor to not punish Fang Chen.


    If not for that, the Third Prince would have been the crown prince now


    His Highness says that Fang Chen will do everything he can to bring the Third Prince back to Great Xia now that he has regained his martial cultivation Someone might already be moving in the shadows, Ye Qinghe whispered.


    It looks like youre very scared of Fang Chen. Ye Dongming sighed.


    Fang Chens means had traumatized Great Xias younger generation. As a matter of fact, it was the same for those in the older generation too.


    If not for that, the crown prince wouldnt have started worrying about his position just because Fang Chen regained his martial cultivation.

 Chapter 19: Hidden Dragon

    Chapter 19: Hidden Dragon


    In General Fang Manor


    What?! My big brother has been apprehended by the Court of Great Brilliance?


    Fang Zhixue had been waiting for Fang Chens return when she heard that thetter had been brought to the Court of Great Brilliance. She immediately dashed out, only to be stopped by Fang Canghai.


    Dont add to our troubles now and stay here! Fang Canghai roared.


    Father, mother, arent you worried about my big brother at all? Fang Zhixue was startled. She turned to Fang Cangyou and the empress. Second uncle? Third aunt?


    She thought that everyone would have been worried, but contrary to her expectations, everyone, including her parents, was perfectlyposed. It was as if Fang Chen had merely gone to the Great Xia River for an excursion.


    Your big brother didnt even tell us that he has regained his martial cultivation. This means that he has greater things nned. He has seeded in purging the capital of Greenpine martial artists, but no one knows what his next step is, and no one can guess either.


    Even I, his father, am unable to fathom his thoughts. What we can do right now is to not hold him back, and this includes you, Fang Canghai said.


    Will big brother be put through grueling torture in the Court of Great Brilliance? Fang Zhixue asked. Despite knowing Fang Canghai was right, she couldnt help but worry about Fang Chen.


    Hmph! Who dares? He has his third aunt as an empress, but even if not for that, just his reputation as the War God Fang is enough to grant him immunity. The Court of Great Brilliance has no choice but to treat him well while they wait for the emperors verdict.


    Zhixue, there are times when I wonder if youre one of us. You dont need to be as bright as your big brother, but you should learn to analyze a situation by yourself, Fang Cangyou said with augh.


    Fang Canghai and his wife red at Fang Cangyou.


    Those words agitated Fang Zhixue. Second uncle, youre making fun of me!


    Enough, enough. The empress waved her hand with a smile. Chener has regained his martial cultivation and purged the capital of Greenpine trash. Our people dont have to be oppressed by those Greenpine martial artists anymore. This is something worth celebrating.


    Indeed, its something to be celebrated. Fang Canghai stroked his beard.


    However The empress suddenly changed her tone, and a sliver of worry showed on her face. His Majesty seems to have no intention of reinstating Chener post. I dont think he has any intention of allowing Chener into the imperial court.


    The group was taken aback.


    Fang Cangyou mmed his hand on his wheelchairs handle and angrily sneered, He dares!


    Second brother, watch your mouth! Fang Canghai berated his brother before turning to the empress. Third sister, dont worry too much about it. Chener knows what hes doing. This might be a good thing if Chener doesnt want to return to the imperial court.


    Fang Canghais wife nodded. I do hope that Chener doesnt lead an army again. Hes already of marriageable age. He should find a wife and continue our bloodline.


    Xu Ge, who was standing behind Fang Cangyou, frowned. <em>Should I inform the young master about this? It looks like his elders are nning to matchmake him. </em>


    Just then, a subordinate rushed into the room and reported, Old master, someone is applying to be our private teacher. He said that he came under the young masters rmendation.


    <em>Hm? Fang Chen was the one who rmended him here?</em>


    Everyone, including Xu Ge, was taken aback.


    The empress eyes gleamed with curiosity. Bring him in.


    Soon, Tie Ma stepped into the hall. He sped his fist and bowed to Fang Canghai. Tie Ma pays respect to General Fang.


    Everyones expressions turned weird, except for Fang Zhixue.


    You are one of the third stage Ki Control martial artists of Greenpine Superior Dojo, Tie Ma? Fang Canghai asked with narrowed eyes.


    The empress assessed Tie Ma from head to toe. Fang Cangyou fell into deep thought. Xu Ge was bbergasted.


    Fang Zhixue was confused until she finally connected the dots. <em>Wait, Greenpine Superior Dojo? Doesnt that mean hes a Greenpine martial artist? </em>Her ki immediately surged, as she prepared to make a move on Tie Ma.


    Fang Canghai hurriedly held her down and said with a deep sigh, Please! Think about what your second uncle said earlier and let it steep.


    But father, he Fang Zhixue anxiously pointed at Tie Ma.


    He was introduced by your big brother. That makes him one of us. Dont just instinctively react to the word Greenpine. Fang Canghai looked visibly stressed.


    That suddenly clicked for Fang Zhixue. <em>That seems to make sense.</em>


    Mister Tie Ma, based on what I know, you are a citizen of Greenpine Country. Fang Canghai pointed out.


    General Fang, I was born and raised in Great Xia. Under War God Fangs orders, I infiltrated Greenpine Countrys Wolf Army in order to acquire and deliver vital intelligence back, Tie Ma replied with an attitude that was neither arrogant nor subservient.


    Fang Canghai and Fang Cangyou were surprised. They exchanged looks before they turned to Tie Ma with grim expressions. You are a Hidden Dragon?


    Indeed. Tie Ma nodded.


    Hidden Dragon was the term used in Great Xia to refer to spies who had infiltrated the enemy camp to deliver vital intelligence back. It was a highly dangerous role, with nine out of ten spies dying in the most grueling manner. Only the most outstanding and loyal people were chosen to be Hidden Dragons.


    The only thing a Hidden Dragon could do upon being found by the enemy was to end their life. There were Hidden Dragons who failed to end their life in time and were subjected to terrifying torture over a long period of time before they were finally granted release.


    Fang Canghai raised his right arm, clenched his fist, and struck his heart. Fang Cangyou did the same too.


    This was a Great Xia military salute.


    Tie Ma returned the salute.


    The women in the room watched the scene in silence.


    Mister Tie Ma, youll be our private tutor from this day onward. Well be counting on you to take care of our younger generation, Fang Canghai said with a smile.


    There were over a hundred children in the General Manor. Some were children from the branch families, whereas the others were orphans whose parents had died in war.


    Youre too polite. Its only right for me to do so, Tie Ma replied.


    Did Chener suggest changing your name? Fang Canghai asked.


    Tie Ma shook his head. The young master told me to continue using this name. If someone guesses my identity, so be it.


    Hahaha! Sounds good! Fang Canghai burst intoughter. He summoned a servant to help Tie Ma settle down in the manor.


    After Tie Ma took his leave, Fang Cangyou said, First the Windcloud Sword, and now Tie Ma. One is at pinnacle Ki Explosion, whereas the other is at early Ki Control. Granted the Windcloud Sword pales inparison to Tie Ma, it still makes me wonder how many more aces Chen''er has up his sleeves. His own influence might just be greater than our Fang n Its an early Ki Control expert! Our Fang n will have another early Ki Control expert from this day on!!!


    Second master, I am right behind you, Xu Ge murmured.


    Why? Am I not allowed to talk about you? Fang Cangyou snorted. He was still holding a grudge against Xu Ge for not listening to hismand.


    Of course not. Second master, you can say all you want about me. I dont mind. Xu Ge smiled.


    Meanwhile, Fang Chen had arrived at the Court of Great Brilliance.


    Hoh, isnt this our War God Fang? I never thought youd ever grace our Court of Great Brilliance.


    A man around thirty years of age walked over. He was dressed in official garments, and apanying him was a group of rectifiers, clerks, and wardens.


    He was Li Huafeng, the supervisor of the Court of Great Brilliance, a position that was second only to the court master himself. He was also the son of Prime Minister Li Guozhu.


    Fang Chen was acquainted with Li Huafeng, though it would be more apt to say that they were nemeses!

 Chapter 20: Old Huang, It’s Me

    Chapter 20: Old Huang, It¡¯s Me


    Li Huafeng and Fang Chens grudge was rather simple.


    Around six years ago, Fang Chen was around sixteen years of age but his martial cultivation had already risen to an incredible height of third stage Ki Control.


    Back then, Li Huafeng was celebrated as the number one martial artist among the younger generation in Great Xia. Despite being only 23 years of age, he had already reached mid third stage Ki Control. Even among the older generation, there were only a few who could match him.


    He was already the supervisor of the Court of Great Brilliance back then, and he had investigated countless powerful officials.


    One day, he received a tip-off that amander was colluding with Greenpine Country. He personally went down the barracks to capture that person back to the Court of Great Brilliance.


    To his surprise, that person was extremely stubborn. He refused to admit that he was colluding with the enemy despite Li Huafeng employing all kinds of torture on him. In the end, he couldnt take it anymore and killed himself by biting his tongue off.


    Thatmander was known to be a valiantmander under Fang Canghaismand, and he had also been Fang Chens mentor for a period of time.


    Fang Canghai was infuriated to learn about thatmanders death, so he requested the emperor to thoroughly investigate this matter.


    Later, it was found that the whistleblower had a grudge against themander, so he fabricated evidence to frame him.


    On the day of themanders funeral, Fang Chen personally carried the coffin. Along the way, he bumped into Li Huafeng, who hade to offer his condolences. However, he expressed not the slightest guilt about his misjudgment and even mocked themander for ending his own life andplicating matters.


    Unable to take it anymore, Fang Chen made his move.


    That was the day Great Xia learned that there was a youth younger than Li Huafeng who had already reached pinnacle Ki Control. There was no way Li Huafeng, being at mid Ki Control, could have been a match for him.


    That day, Fang Chen broke Li Huafeng four limbs and partially crushed his ki sea. If not for Prime Minister Li Guozhu arriving with his men, Li Huafeng would have likely died then.


    This resulted in Li Huafengs martial cultivation regressing to pinnacle second stage Ki Explosion, and he could never raise it again.


    From then on, the two of them became nemeses.


    Li Huafeng would asionally cause trouble for Fang Chen, and Fang Chen would return the favor. Often, the one to suffer in the end was Li Huafeng.


    I never thought youd still be the Court of Great Brilliances supervisor after so many years. Fang Chenughed.


    Li Huafengs face scrunched up. Even though his current position was beyond the reach of most people, this was far from enough to satisfy him. His hearty with the army. He wanted to march onto the battlefield and pit his life against Greenpine martial artists.


    However, Fang Chen hadpletely destroyed that possibility for him, as well as his future.


    Fang Chens words came as an insult to him.


    Tough words. You wouldnt have suffered a tragic defeat at Three Realms Mountain if your fist was as tough as your mouth, Li Huafeng sneered.


    He ordered the chief warden to bring Fang Chen to his cell. Once the case was drafted up, he would make sure to <em>thoroughly</em> interrogate Fang Chen.


    The prisoners locked in the Court of Great Brilliances prison were excited to see a neer. Some of them cheered, some of them uttered words of mockery, and some of them spat threats.


    What a diverse group of people here in the Court of Great Brilliances prison.


    Fang Chen took a quick nce and saw at least a hundred people locked here. Considering the Court of Great Brilliances jurisdiction, these people had to be nobles or officials.


    This is your cell.


    The chief warden unlocked one of the cells and pushed the door open. There were already seven prisoners locked inside. They were of different ages, but their faces looked haggard. They coldly nced at Fang Chen without saying a word; evidently, they didnt recognize him.


    Chief Warden, I have instructed my subordinates to deliver some stuff here. Can you bring them over for me? Fang Chen requested.


    The chief warden was surprised by the sudden request. What kind of stuff?


    A weasel hair brush, some cinnabar, and a stack of talisman papers, Fang Chen replied.


    The chief warden was stunned. <em>Is War God Fang going to draw talismans? </em>He thought about it, but he eventually shook his head and coldly replied, There are rules here. You have to obey them unless the supervisor grants you an exception.


    You are one of Li Huafengs men. Fang Chen pointed out with a smile.


    I am indebted to Lord Supervisor, the chief warden replied with a nod before taking his leave.


    The prisoners became even livelier after the chief warden left.


    A prisoner in the opposite cell roared in mockery, Lad, you want to draw talismans in the Court of Great Brilliances prison cell? This is my first time hearing such a request despite being locked here for a long time. Interesting, interesting! Hahaha!


    You look quite young. What got you in here? Those who are thrown here have some standing. Do you have someone in your n who has connections to get you out? one of the prisoners tried to probe into Fang Chens background.


    A prisoner sharing the cell with Fang Chen spoke up, There are rules in the prison. As a neer, youll be responsible for washing the feces bucket from this day onward.


    You want me to wash the feces bucket? Fang Chen looked at the prisoner and burst intoughter.


    Shut up! Im trying to sleep! a deep voice echoed.


    Everyone immediately fell silent. Their eyes drifted toward the corner of the room.


    A neer? the deep voice echoed once more. Neer, introduce yourself!


    Hurry up and introduce yourself! Do you know who he is? He used to be one of the Four Dragon Generals under War God Fang! someone urged Fang Chen.


    The Four Dragon Generals used to be awe-inspiring, but three of them died in the battle at the Three Realms Mountain. The only surviving one was thrown into the Court of Great Brilliances prison. It has been five years, but his case still hasnt been handled yet, someone murmured.


    Old Huang, its me, Fang Chen said.


    <em>Old Huang?! </em>


    The crowd stared at Fang Chen in disbelief. <em>Is this fellow tired of living? How dare he address that man like that? Even the chief warden respectfully addresses him as General Huang!</em>


    The voice fell silent for a second before booming out loud, Marshall?! Did they throw you in here too? AHHHH! Those bastards! They deserve to die!


    Boom!


    The explosion was so deafening that some of the prisoners revealed pained looks and hurriedly covered their ears. It sounded as if someone had torn the cell apart.


    A man who resembled a small hill appeared before Fang Chen.


    The crowd was stunned.


    He was at least half a body taller than ordinary people, and his arms were as thick as a grown mans waist. Despite being dressed in prison garb, he still exuded an intimidating aura that ensured no one made light of him. He stared fixated at Fang Chen withrge, round eyes.


    Marshall, how can they throw you in here as well? They duped me! Ill ughter all of them and bring you out of here!


    <em>Marshall? </em>


    All of the prisoners who made fun of Fang Chen earlier fell silent. There was only one person whom General Huang would call Marshall.


    This young man is War God Fang?!


    What in the world happened outside?! Why would War God Fang be thrown in here?


    The crowd was appalled.


    At the same time, a few wardens rushed into the prison. They were terrified to see the giant, and they dared not approach him. They could only yell from afar, General Huang, return to your cell now!

 Chapter 21: Innate God Strength

    Chapter 21: Innate God Strength


    Say anything more and Ill ughter all of you!


    The giant turned around and red at the wardens with murderous intent. Under his sharp, dagger-like eyes, the warden and guards felt their legs going numb.


    Old Huang, I came in on my own ord, It has nothing to do with them, Fang Chen said with a chuckle.


    His subordinate was the same as before. Not only did he not get any thinner here, but he appeared to have bulked up instead.


    Huang Sihai was an ordinary person who possessed strength on par with third stage Ki Control martial artists despite having never trained in martial cultivation. He had been one of the Dragon Generals under Fang Chensmand.


    Three of the Four Dragon Generals had died at the Three Realms Mountain, and Huang Sihai sustained severe injuries too. However, he had a hardy life. Not only did he not die, but he even made a full recovery within half a year without leaving any trauma behind.


    Marshall, I


    I am not the marshall anymore. Call me young master.


    Young master, they told me that they wouldnt touch you if I stayed here. They said that His Majesty would spare you if I obeyed them. They lied to me! Huang Sihai stared at Fang Chen, his eyes zing with insuppressible anger.


    What?!


    Is that the reason General Huang stays in this prison?


    The crowd was taken aback. They had known that it was impossible for this prison to lock Huang Sihai up in the first ce.


    They didnt lie to you. No one harassed me in the past five years, Fang Chen replied.


    Many people have suffered over the past five years because of him. Tie Ma was one. Huang Sihai was another one. He was going to change it all now.


    Why are you here, young master? Is it Li Huafeng? Screw his grandmother! Ill kill him! Huang Sihai roared as he clenched his fist.


    The wardens felt a chill go down their spine. They had never known that Huang Sihai saw their supervisor as a little chick who could be crushed at any moment.


    I killed quite a few people in thest two days. They were Greenpine martial artists. The imperial court decided to throw me in here first while they decide on how they should deal with this matter, Fang Chen exined. I thought that it has been a while since Ist saw you, so I came here to visit you.


    <em>He killed Greenpine martial artists? </em>The prisoners were shaken up. <em>I thought Fang Chen had been crippled, and his eyes even went blind. </em>


    Young master, your martial cultivation Huang Sihai suddenly calmed down and closely examined Fang Chen.


    It has recovered. Fang Chen nodded with a smile.


    Hahaha! Huang Sihai was initially stunned before bursting into heartyughter. His face broke out in joy, as he knew he wouldnt remain in this prison for long!


    War God Fang has regained his martial cultivation?


    No wonder! I was thinking why the people from the Court of Great Brilliance have been a bit off in the past two days. It looks like the world is going to change


    Such whispers echoed in the prison.


    I have decided to not get involved in the imperial court ever again. Are you willing to follow me even though I dont have a general position for you? Fang Chen asked.


    Young master, to hell with being a general! If you sell biscuits, Ill roll the dough for you! Huang Sihai roared inughter.


    The crowd looked at Huang Sihai with conflicted eyes.


    <em>This powerful manparable to Ki Control experts snubbed even the chief warden, but he would willingly lower himself to roll dough for Fang Chen. </em>Just thinking about the sight left them feeling weirded out.


    General Huang, I have given you good food and drinks in the past few years, and I have never insulted or humiliated you before. You should at least spare me some dignity, the chief warden from earlier returned and looked at Huang Sihai with conflicted eyes.


    Old He, youre the one who isnt sparing my dignity. You should have given me a heads up before tossing my young master here. If not for my young master patiently exining things to me, Id have smashed your head as soon as I got out of here, Huang Sihai sneered.


    The chief warden was stunned. He didnt think Huang Sihai would still be loyal to Fang Chen even after five years had passed.


    Can you return to your cell now that your young master has exined things to you? the chief warden asked.


    Give me the things I want and prepare a single cell for me. Hell return to his cell once youre done, Fang Chen said.


    You hear my young masters words? Huang Sihai looked at the chief warden.


    The chief warden fell silent. Secondster, he relented with a nod. Your subordinate is currently outside the Court of Great Brilliance?


    Fang Chen nodded.


    Give me a moment. The chief warden turned around and took his leave.


    Xu Ge was patiently waiting with a bag outside the Court of Great Brilliance. He looked to be daydreaming, but he was actually assessing the areasyout.


    Id be able to raid the Court of Great Brilliance in less than an hour if I have ten Ki Explosion and fifty Ki Condensation martial artists.


    Windcloud Sword Xu Ge?! a loud exmation shook Xu Ge out of his thoughts.


    The chief warden stared at Xu Ge in disbelief. He would have never thought the famous Windcloud Sword Xu Ge would be Fang Chens subordinate and the other partys earlier murmur was nothing short of horrifying!


    <em>That fellow is thinking of raiding our Pce of Great Brilliance?! Did he receive instructions from War God Fang? </em>Goosebumps rose all over the chief wardens body, as he felt light-headed.


    Youre from the Pce of Great Brilliance? You came under my young masters instructions, right? Xu Ge asked with a frown. <em>Whats this fellow doing? Why does he look at me as if he has seen a ghost? Is everyone from the Court of Great Brilliance so timid?</em>


    Yes, thats right, the chief warden replied with a nod.


    Take this. Hand it to my young master. Xu Ge passed the bag to the chief warden.


    Its against the rules for me to do this, so Ill have to check the content, the chief warden said.


    Go ahead. Xu Ge nodded.


    The chief warden opened the bag and saw that it really only contained a weasel hair brush, cinnabar, and yellow talisman paper. He couldnt understand why Fang Chen needed these items in his cell.


    Pass them to my young master, and dont y tricks. If I learn you didnt pass it to him, Ill make sure you live out the rest of your life in fear, Xu Ge nonchntly threatened.


    You should know Im the Court of Great Brilliances chief warden. How dare you threaten me? The chief warden was infuriated.


    So what if youre the chief warden? I have nothing to lose. Why should I fear you? Xu Ge red at the other party.


    The chief warden left without saying a word. He returned to the prison and passed the items to Fang Chen.


    Old Huang, return to your cell, Fang Chen said.


    Young master, let me walk you to your cell first. Huang Sihai grinned.


    The chief warden quickly arranged a single cell for Fang Chen, and only then did Huang Sihai finally return to his own cell.


    War God Fang, raiding the Court of Great Brilliance is not a good idea. Please think twice, the chief warden said those words before hurriedly taking his leave.


    <em>Raiding the Court of Great Brilliance? </em>Fang Chen was baffled.


    He tossed aside those ridiculous words and turned his attention to drawing Purple Lightning Talismans again. He was hoping to forge the second immortal vein today. If he could raise his cultivation, the prowess of his talismans would increase too.

 Chapter 22: Advancing to Second Stage Ki Refinement

    Chapter 22: Advancing to Second Stage Ki Refinement


    The upper echelons of the Court of Great Brilliance, including Supervisor Li Huafeng, were gathered in the High Court, as they looked through stack after stack of documents.


    Recorded in these documents were the details of the deceased Greenpine martial artists.


    Good riddance, an elder suddenly sneered with enlivened eyes.


    The crowd was startled.


    Li Huafeng turned to the elder and coldly asked, Good riddance? Do you know how much danger Fang Chen has brought to our Great Xia through his actions? How long can west if Greenpine Country invades us over this matter?


    Lord Supervisor, the elder said. The Greenpine martial artists have killed hundreds, if not thousands of our civilians over the past five years. Their atrocities have been piling up as cases on our desks. War God Fang did us a favor by eradicating them, thus sparing us the burden of going through those cases. Isnt this good news?


    As for Greenpine Country thats not something for us to worry about. War God Fang has his own considerations for doing what he did. I heard he has regained his martial cultivation. Our Great Xia isnt as weak as it was before.


    A few people nodded in agreement.


    Li Huafengs eyes turned grim. I understand why you think that way, but its a fact Fang Chen was defeated in the Three Realms Mountain. Our Great Xia is no match for Greenpine Country. I called you here today to discuss how we should deal with him. I suggest throwing him into the imperial prison and having him deported to Greenpine Country. This way, we can appease their anger.


    The crowd was rmed. <em>You want to send Fang Chen to Greenpine? How can we do that?</em>


    Just then, a guard rushed over and reported with a suppressed voice, Milords, theres arge group of people gathered outside the Court of Great Brilliance.


    Are they here to demand Fang Chens release? the elder asked.


    No The guard had a weird look on his face. They are people from Guhe, Longdu, and Yizhou. They heard about Fang Chen massacring Greenpine martial artists, and they insist that he must be severely punished, or else foreigners in Great Xias capital wont be able to live in peace.


    Guhe, Longdu, and Yizhou were grade-9 states, though none was in a military conflict with Great Xia. They were focused onmerce and had many merchants, so it wasmon for their people to reside in Great Xias capital.


    Rubbish! What does this matter have to do with them? the elder sneered.


    How is it unrted? Li Huafeng nced at the elder. Director Zhao, you shouldnt overlook Guhe, Longdu, and Yizhous rtionship with Greenpine. A huge amount of trade goes to and fro their countries each year. Fang Chens actions must have provoked them. What will we do if they begin exerting pressure on Great Xia too? Were already struggling to deal with Greenpine. Itll be over for us if we turn those three countries against us too.


    The crowd slowly turned grim.


    Li Huafeng was right. Thest thing Great Xia wanted was for those three countries to get involved in this matter. The problem was that those three countries were unlikely to back down if they couldnt give a satisfactory exnation.


    The Court Master is here.


    Court Master.


    The crowd rose up to wee a middle-aged man wearing a flood dragon robe. The middle-aged man acknowledged them with a nod before settling down on the main seat.


    You have been discussing the matter for some time now. Have you decided on a procedure? the court master asked.


    Court Master, I believe that we should hand Fang Chen over to Greenpine, Li Huafeng sped his fist and replied.


    Ey, this matter is truly a headache. The court master massaged his temples. Fang Chen is a troublesome figure to deal with. We could have traded him for years of stability for our nation if he hasnt recovered his martial cultivation, but now that he has, it doesnt matter how we sentence him. Ultimately, the problem is whether hes willing to obey our sentence or not.


    The crowd was stunned. Frowns formed on their faces, as they hadnt thought of this.


    Li Huafeng hesitated. But does he dare to defy orders?


    Are you going to put that to the test? the court master sneered. I might be the court master and Great Xias king, but do you think he wouldnt dare p me if I give him a long lecture?


    The crowd fell silent.


    That settles things. Dont waste your time. Our Court of Great Brilliance wont be getting involved in this matter. Let Fang Chen deal with it himself. The court master stood up. We have done our part by capturing him. As for how it goes, thats none of our business."


    The court master strutted out of the High Court.


    The others also stood up and left one after another.


    Lord Supervisor, I suggest you should wash your hands clean of this matter. Youll only look bad no matter how it goes. Director Zhao smiled at Li Huafeng before casually walking out.


    Li Huafengs face turned livid.


    Outside, Yuan Zhuang rushed up to Director Zhao and asked, Milord, what did the upper echelons say?


    I never thought you would be able to apprehend War God Fang. Thats something you can boast about for the rest of your life. Director Zhao chuckled. As for the rest, let the others hash it out. Im in a good mood today. Ill treat all of you to a performance at Great Xia River.


    Yuan Zhuang was surprised. Director Zhao had never stepped into the entertainment district since Great Xias defeat five years ago. <em>Did something good happen today?</em>


    Thunderous rumbles could be asionally heard in the prison. The bbergasted prisoners crouched in front of their cells, curious to know what was going on.


    Soon, from the wardens idle chatter, they learned that Fang Chen had regained his martial cultivation, and he even grasped an extremely powerful martial art that sparked lightning when executed. Many enemies had been reduced to cinders by his attack.


    Xian Tianci, Greenpine Superior Dojos Master, had died from that too.


    They were initially struck with terror, but they quickly got used to it. Soon, the thunderous rumble sounded reassuring to them instead.


    The stronger War God Fang is, the more powerful Great Xia is. Heaven has not forsaken us!


    Theres bound to be a battle between Great Xia and Greenpine Country that will determine our fates. Itll be an even more grueling battle than that of the Three Realms Mountain. The stronger War God Fang is, the greater our chances at victory.


    Wardens! How long are you going to keep War God Fang imprisoned here? Let him go! Hell suppress Greenpine Country on behalf of our Great Xia!


    The wardens revealed bitter smiles. They would have already done so if they had the authority.


    In the single cell, Fang Chen quietly drew his Purple Lightning Talismans. His brush strokes were fluid and forceful. The rate at which he was drawing the talismans gradually hastened.


    His spirit ki was slowly bing stronger and more concentrated. It was already several fold stronger than the day he first forged his immortal vein. Each time he expended his spirit ki, its capacity would increase when he recovered it.


    Immortal cultivation isnt that tough, after all


    Fang Chen put down his weasel hair brush as he quietly sensed the billowing spirit ki in him. A smile formed on his lips as he knew his spirit ki was strong enough for him to forge the second immortal vein.


    With a thought, the surrounding spirit ki began surging toward his body. It didnt take long for a second pristine immortal vein to appear.


    He advanced to second stage Ki Refinement!


    <strong>Quick context about Chinese robes:</strong>


    Dragon is a symbol of the Chinese emperor, so wearing and possessing anything rted to a dragon is strictly forbidden (youll be executed under high treason, even if you are the empress or a member of the imperial family).


    However, in the very rare case where a person has greatly contributed to the country, the emperor may bestow an official with the right to don a flood dragon robe. Flood dragons are thought to be half-dragons, but just the association with dragons makes it extremely prestigious.

 Chapter 23: Trap

    Chapter 23: Trap


    The following day, Fang Chen put down his brush.


    He had noticed a problem. His weasel hair brush, cinnabar, and yellow talisman paper were only mortal-grade items, so they couldnt harness even more spirit ki. Due to that, the prowess of his Purple Lightning Talisman remained the same despite the rise in his cultivation.


    The prowess of the Purple Lightning Talisman is so great that it can strike fear even in a twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator, but the Purple Lightning Talisman I draw is nowhere near that. It looks like the problem lies with the equipment. Fang Chen fell into deep thought.


    There were no cultivators to be found in Great Xia, but that didnt mean that they didnt have spirit items. He needed a better weasel hair brush, cinnabar, and yellow talisman papers.


    Maybe I should ask someone to collect such items for me.


    Fang Chen began sieving through the candidates. Quite a few people met the criteria in the Great Xia Shadow Guards. They had several stores under them, but the problem was that they had no spirit ki, so they were incapable of discerning spirit items.


    All of a sudden, a thought arose in his mind.


    He remembered his Shadow Guards reporting something strange many years ago. It was intriguing, but he didnt pay attention to it as it had nothing to do with the battlefield. Now that he thought about it, it might be rted to the world of cultivation.


    I should find time to take a trip there, Fang Chen murmured.


    War God Fang, the chief warden called him from outside.


    How did the negotiation go? Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    He had given them a day. No matter how they dragged things out, there should be a conclusion by now.


    The court master has received news from the imperial pce. You have been granted an audience with His Majesty, the chief warden replied as he instructed a warden to open the gate.


    Young master, youlle and fetch meter, right? Huang Sihai anxiously asked.


    You have been here for five years now. Theres no rush. Stay here for now, Fang Chen said.


    Fang Chen followed the chief warden out of the prison. Eunuch You and You Longchang were already waiting for him outside.


    You Longchang looked defeated. He seemed to have something to say to Fang Chen, but he held himself back.


    War God Fang, I havee under orders to fetch you. Pleasee with me, Eunuch You said politely.


    Ill be troubling you, Fang Chen replied.


    The chief warden walked them out of the Court of Great Brilliance, and only then did he heave a sigh of relief. Each day Fang Chen stayed in their prison, his stress would increase by a load.


    War God Fang, will His Majesty punish us? You Longchang walked beside Fang Chen as he asked with a suppressed voice.


    Eunuch You heard those words, but he feigned ignorance. He had brought You Longchang along this time under the emperors orders. After all, You Longchang was an aplice in his massacre of the Greenpine martial artists.


    The ones we killed are Greenpine martial artists. Why would His Majesty punish us for that? You dont have to worry about it. Fang Chen smiled.


    You Longchang was unconvinced. <em>You say that, but you have been locked in the Court of Great Brilliance for a day now. </em>However, there was nothing he could do now. Blood had rushed into his head that day, and he killed quite a few Greenpine martial artists alongside Fang Chen.


    It didnt take long for them to arrive before the imperial pce.


    You Longchang suddenly remarked, Isnt that Imperial Uncle Li and his family?


    A group of people were kneeling before the pce doors, ranging from the young to the old. There was even a trembling old woman with snowy-white hair kneeling with them.


    One of them noticed Fang Chen and roared, The murderer Fang Chen is here!


    <em>Murderer? </em>You Longchang was suddenly reminded of Li Huang. <em>Now that I think about it, I dont think I have met Li Huang since that day. Could it be </em>


    You Longchang quickly turned to look at Fang Chen in disbelief. <em>Surely this fellow cant have killed Li Huang too? Li Huangs aunt is one of His Majestys most dotted consorts!</em>


    Fang Chen, what grudge does our Li n have with you? Why are you so vicious as to kill my son and end our lineage? Imperial Uncle Li stood up and red at Fang Chen with animosity.


    Son, is he Fang Chen? The old woman shakily stood up and pointed a trembling finger at Fang Chen.


    Imperial Uncle Li nodded.


    Y-you! Why did you kill my grandson? Why?! Ill beat you to death! Ill beat you to death! The old woman limped up to Fang Chen and raised her walking cane to strike him.


    Not only did Imperial Uncle Li and the others not stop her, but there was even a hint of glee in their eyes.


    Eunuch You was at a loss as to what to do. One side was Imperial Uncle Lis mother, and the other side was Fang Chen. He didnt know what he could do to not offend both sides.


    While he was still in thought, the walking cane had almostnded on Fang Chens head.


    Fang Chen heaved a sigh as he grabbed the walking stick. Old Madam, Li Huang, like the Greenpine martial artists, saw the civilians of our Great Xia as mere livestock and used them as live targets. His Majesty would have beheaded him even if I didnt make a move, and your n would have been implicated too.


    You killed my grandson, and you still want to sully his reputation! My grandson wouldnt do anything like that! Ill beat you to death! The old woman disregarded Fang Chens exnation as she tried to retrieve her walking cane from his hand to continue hitting him.


    Meanwhile, several figures were quietly watching as this farce unfolded.


    His Highness, how will Fang Chen resolve this matter? Its one thing for him to kill the Greenpine martial artists, but he actually killed Li Huang on top of that. Imperial Uncle Li and Noble Consort Fang wont let this matter slide, Ye Qinghe said.


    The crown prince calmly looked at Fang Chen, followed by the old woman, before bursting intoughter. Resolve this matter? Not that easy! Imperial Uncle Lis mother used to be my fathers nanny, so Fang Chen cant afford to touch her. This puts him in a spot. Hahaha!


    A crowd was starting to gather in front of the imperial pce.


    The Li n immediately spread word about Fang Chen killing the innocent, which horrified the civilians. The civilians pointed their fingers at Fang Chen and criticized him.


    All of a sudden, the old woman cried in agony. She fell to her knees while clutching her chest. Imperial Uncle Li rushed forward to support her, but at the same time, he roared at Fang Chen, How dare you make a move on my mother?


    I didnt do anything. There are many eyes watching us, Fang Chen said.


    You are a martial artist, a fourth stage Ki Manifestation martial artist! You dont even need to lift a finger to kill my mother; all you have to do is to exert your inner ki! Imperial Uncle Li bellowed while inspecting the old womans body.


    With those words, the surrounding civilians looked at Fang Chen with a different gaze.


    Y-you must avenge Huanger The old woman saw her life sh across her eyes as she desperately clutched onto Imperial Uncle Lis sleeves. She obstinately pointed her finger at Fang Chen as she said, Avenge Huanger, kill him, and destroy his n


    The old womans legs finally caved in, and she cked out.


    Imperial Uncle Li roared in sorrow, Mother!!!


    Did War God Fang really make a move on an unarmed old woman?


    Dont talk nonsense! War God Fang never touched her!


    A fourth stage Ki Manifestation martial artist doesnt need direct contact to kill someone. There might be more than meets the eye.


    Such discussions could be heard from the crowd.


    A young man dressed like a schr stepped forward and yelled at Fang Chen, War God Fang, no matter what, you should nevery your hands on a civilian of Great Xia!


    On the pce walls, the crown prince chuckled at that sight. Qinghe, do you know how it feels to be criticized by everyone?


    I-I dont think so Ye Qinghe shook his head.


    Just look at Fang Chen. Hes in huge trouble. Its almost impossible for him to make aeback now, the crown prince snorted.


    Ye Qinghe thought about the matter, and his eyes gleamed in realization. Your Highness, this is an ingenious move! Even if His Majesty wishes to reinstate Fang Chen as a marshall, there will be strong resistance from the people as he has lost their support!


    It was under the crown princes instruction that Imperial Uncle Li chose to camp outside the imperial pce today.


    Whats Fang Chen doing? the crown prince suddenly asked with a frown.


    Ye Qinghe looked over and saw Fang Chen squatting beside the old woman and taking her pulse.

 Chapter 24: The Emperor’s Punishment

    Chapter 24: The Emperor¡¯s Punishment


    What are you doing? Let go of my mother! Imperial Uncle Li roared.


    She has only fainted out of exhaustion. Itll be hopeless if I dont save her now, Fang Chen replied as he sent a surge of spirit ki into the old womans body.


    Spirit ki had the ability to nourish all beings. Having her body cleansed by spirit ki had restored not just the old womans energy but also healed some of her hidden traumas.


    The old woman slowly opened her eyes in confusion. Son, am I in theherworld?


    Imperial Uncle Li couldnt believe his eyes. The civilians were dumbfounded too.


    Imperial Uncle Li, you know full well what Li Huang had done in the Greenpine Superior Dojo. Feel free to do your worst if you wish to exact vengeance, but dont use an old woman as a cover. I dont intend to take on military roles anymore, so reputation and merit mean nothing to me. I dont care how the civilians see me, Fang Chen said with a smile before walking past Imperial Uncle Li to enter the imperial pce.


    Eunuch You and You Longchang quickly caught up with him.


    Imperial Uncle Li sat in a daze. He could discern the threat behind Fang Chens words. Basically, Fang Chen was saying that he had no qualms killing them, and he wouldnt be deterred by the potential bacsh of doing so as he had nothing to lose.


    On the pce walls, Ye Qinghe was taken aback. Fang Chen possesses such means?


    The crown princes face turned livid. He was intending to sully Fang Chens reputation through this, but who could have thought that thetter had the means to save the old woman? His n ended up falling t.


    Meanwhile, Eunuch You brought Fang Chen and You Longchang to the Imperial Library, where the emperor was waiting for them.


    Fang Chen stood upright with aposed demeanor, whereas You Longchang had his head lowered and body stiffened up out of nervousness.


    What have you done? The emperor coldly eyed the two of them. Who granted you permission to make a move on the Greenpine Superior Dojo? Do you understand the consequences of your actions?


    You Longchang kneeled down in fear, not daring to utter a word.


    In contrast, Fang Chen smiled and replied, Your Majesty, the Greenpine Superior Dojo has been a tumor to our capital. Many innocent civilians have died to the Greenpine martial artists in thest five years.


    Do you think Im unaware of that? the emperor coldly replied. Great Xia in treading on thin ice. So what if you have recovered your fourth stage Ki Manifestation martial cultivation? You might be able to rival a thousand troops, but the Wolf Army alone is already a hundred thousand men strong. Can you deal with it by yourself?


    Our Great Xia iscking in military prowess. If Greenpine Country attacks us over this matter, Fang Chen, do you have the means to resolve this issue?


    The emperor stared intently at Fang Chen. Even Long Youchang pricked up his ears, curious to know if Fang Chen was truly confident about dealing with Greenpine Country.


    Your Majesty, you dont know Wolf Marshall Xiaos personality. He wont make a move unless hes absolutely confident of victory. Fang Chen smiled. As long as he doesnt get to the bottom of my situation, hell never attack Great Xia.


    Thats your spection. Im asking you if you can take responsibility if something really happens, the emperor asked once more.


    Yes, Ill take all the responsibility. Fang Chen nodded.


    Very well. The emperor nodded. You have acted recklessly this time around. Guhe, Longdu, and Yizhou have their eyes on me. They are waiting for my verdict, and they will not rest unless I give them a satisfactory answer. We have already made an enemy out of Greenpine; we cant afford to offend the other three countries too.


    Do what you must, Your Majesty. Ill heed your verdict, Fang Chen said.


    Your father, Fang Canghai, will be demoted three grades, and hell have to hand over the East Tiger Barracks Tiger Seal. As for you, you are hereby forbidden from stepping into the imperial court and leading an army for the rest of your life. This is the promise I have made in order to cate them, the emperor said. Do you disagree with my punishment?


    You Longchang was in disbelief. <em>What will happen to me if even Fang Chen is subjected to such severe punishment? Can I keep my position as the vicemander of the West Tiger Barracks?</em>


    Ill ept your verdict, Your Majesty, Fang Chen replied with a sped fist. There was not the slightest change in his expression, as if he was unfazed by the verdict.


    The emperor was irked by his nonchnce. He waved his hand and said, You may go now.


    Yes, Your Majesty. Fang Chen took his leave.


    You Longchang was dazed. <em>Its over? Is His Majesty not going to punish me? </em>He raised his head and saw the emperor picking up a memorial and flipping through it. Not daring to interrupt, he quickly followed Fang Chen out of the Imperial Library.


    W-War God Fang You Longchang couldnt help but call out.


    Whats wrong? Fang Chen looked at him with a smile.


    <em>Hes still able to smile despite that harsh punishment?</em>


    You Longchang suppressed his voice and asked, War God Fang, His Majesty sentenced you to never be able to step foot into the imperial court or lead an army. Do you not feel indignant?


    Why should I feel indignant? Such a judgment fits my will. Its exhausting to deal with the imperial court. Id rather be a carefree young master, Fang Chen said.


    You Longchang could sense the sincerity behind Fang Chens words, but that only deepened his incredulity. The old Fang Chen wasnt like that at all!


    The Fang Chen from five years ago was very young, but he wouldnt hesitate to oppose even Prime Minister Li Guozhu in the morning assembly. He was a political force to be reckoned with in the imperial court. He raised countless officials, and these people were privately known as the Fang Faction.


    However, after Fang Chens defeat in the Three Realms Mountain, the powerful Fang Faction practically copsed overnight. Everyone anxiously drew a line between them and Fang Chen. Some even wrote memorials to pin crimes on Fang Chen!


    Thus, You Longchang thought Fang Chen would fight for what he had lost after regaining his martial cultivation. At the very least, he would have done just that.


    Ill be heading back.


    Once they were out of the imperial pce, Fang Chen bade You Longchang farewell and headed back to the Fang Manor.


    He was aware of You Longchangs skepticism, but he didnt think there was a need for him to exin himself. Even if he did try to exin himself, the other party might not understand due to the differences in their states of mind.


    He didnt deny that the old him was obsessed with power. While employing all the means he had avable to protect the civilians of Great Xia from external harm, he desperately climbed up the politicaldder.


    It was true that the expert from a grade-8 state invited by Greenpine Country had resulted in his crushing defeat in the battle at the Three Realms Mountain, but hiscency had worsened the oue.


    His arrogance had prompted him to gather all of the soldiers together in hopes of defeating Greenpine Country in a single swoop, but that only led to the death of 600,000 of their soldiers.


    The death of these loyal soldiers was a scar he would never recover from.


    It had been five years. He dearly regretted his arrogance, but it was impossible to do it over.


    The only thing I can do now is to take care of the people around me and protect the civilians of Great Xia. After that, I think Ill try bing an immortal, Fang Chen murmured with a smile.


    Daoist Cloudcrane had been able to travel the world through astral projecting his soul. Once he reaches the same level, he should be able to live the same carefree life.


    Before he knew it, Fang Chen arrived at the Court of Great Brilliance.


    Li Huafeng was waiting for him at the entrance. How did His Majesty deal with you?


    Im forbidden from stepping into the imperial court and leading an army for life, Fang Chen replied.


    Li Huafeng revealed a heartened smile. He nced at the chief warden, and thetter ordered his men to bring Huang Sihai out.


    Huang Sihai has been eating five kilograms of beef and three kilograms of rice for each meal. The Court of Great Brilliance cant afford to keep him anymore, so you can take him away with you, Li Huafeng coldly sneered before turning away.


    Young master! Huang Sihai grinned at Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen also smiled. Lets go. Xu Ge, Tie Ma, and the others miss you.

 Chapter 25: You Can Ask Him Yourself

    Chapter 25: You Can Ask Him Yourself


    The following day, the Great Xias imperial pce released an imperial edict announcing Fang Chens punishment.


    <em>Fang Chen is forbidden to step into the imperial court or lead an army for the rest of his life. </em>


    An intense debate broke out when the civilians learned about the matter.


    Some said that the emperor had crippled Great Xia with this move. Some said that this could appease Greenpine Countrys wrath.


    In the General Fang Manor, Fang Canghai handed over his Tiger Seal and was stripped of his position as the general of the East Tiger Barracks. He was demoted to a gatekeeper for the east city gate.


    This should have been bad news, but a lively celebration was held in the Fang Manor instead. The main family and branch families gathered together to celebrate the recovery of Fang Chens cultivation.


    The Fang n was the only n with a fourth stage Ki Manifestation martial artist, after all! Not even the imperial pce had an expert of this caliber.


    Xu Ge, Tie Ma, and Huang Sihai reminisced about the past together.


    Huang Sihai, as a Dragon General, had not been under the samemand chain as Xu Ge and Tie Ma, but the three of them had met one another. After five years of absence, there were endless things for them to talk about.


    Chener, Ill be returning to the pce after this meal. The empress looked at Fang Chen with a smile. Youre 23 now. Its about time for you to form your family. Are there anydies youre interested in? Ill help matchmake you.


    Fang Canghai and his wife, as well as Fang Cangyou, looked at him with expectant eyes.


    I do have someone in my heart. Fang Chen nodded.


    The crowd was surprised. Fang Zhixue excitedly asked, Big brother, who is it?


    I dont know either. Fang Chen shook his head with a helpless smile.


    The sight of the fairy amidst the zing sun five years ago was imprinted in his mind. Even now, he was still unable to forget about her.


    The crowd stared at Fang Chen with frowns. They thought that he was finding an excuse to sidestep the matter. But again, they knew Fang Chen was different from ordinary people, so it wouldnt be wise to rush this matter.


    Father, is grandfather still training in seclusion? Fang Chen casually asked.


    Yes, your grandfather is still training in seclusion. Our Fang n will have another fourth stage Ki Manifestation expert if he seeds, Fang Canghai nodded with a smile.


    This topic excited the crowd.


    Fourth stage Ki Manifestation experts were the greatest assets of a grade-9 state. Great Xia had fallen weak because it hadnt had a Ki Manifestation martial artist for more than a decade before Fang Chens arrival.


    This allowed Greenpine Country, despitegging far behind Great Xia in the past, to catch up and even overtake them.


    The empress returned to the pce in the evening.


    Fang Chen retired to his room and continued drawing Purple Lightning Talismans. These talismans served both as an offensive means as well as a way for him to deplete his spirit ki and raise his cultivation.


    Before he knew it, it was already midnight.


    Fang Chens grayish-white eyes suddenly darted toward the corner, and he said, Celestial Xiao, why have youe back to Great Xias capital instead of returning to Greenpine?


    From the shadows, Celestial Xiao red at Fang Chen with bone-chilling animosity.


    She was in an unkempt state. Her clothes were tattered, and she was covered with injuries. Some had already formed scars, whereas some had barely started to clot and were still oozing blood.


    I would have never thought the so-called War God Fang would be such a despicable scum! To think my father has such a high opinion of you. He judged you wrongly! Celestial Xiao spat.


    What do you mean? Fang Chen frowned. Youre badly injured.


    You pretended to let me go, but you secretly sent experts after me. Are you feigning ignorance right now? The first thing I heard as soon as I returned to the capital is that you have massacred everyone in the Greenpine Superior Dojo! You piece of trash! Celestial Xiao sneered.


    I was the one who eradicated the Greenpine Superior Dojo. Why would I allow a poisonous tumor to thrive in our Great Xias capital? As for you I wasnt the one who did it, Fang Chen cidly replied.


    Who else could it be other than you? You still refuse to admit it at this point! Celestial Xiao red at him venomously.


    Id have admitted it if I did it, but why should I admit to things I havent done? Fang Chen chuckled. The fact you came here shows you are uncertain too. Otherwise, you would have been courting your own doom.


    Celestial Xiao was stunned. Fang Chen was spot on.


    Even though she suspected Fang Chen, she still harbored a sliver of doubt that drew her here to confront him. She was willing to put her life on the line for the truth.


    At the same time, it was also because she was cornered. The person chasing after her possessed unfathomable means.


    Tell me what you encountered, Fang Chen said as he stood up.


    He was curious about this matter too. <em>Is there a powerful figure in the capital who doesnt want Celestial Xiao to return to Greenpine Country alive?</em>


    Celestial Xiao was slowly bing convinced that the assassination attempts on her had nothing to do with Fang Chen. After some hesitation, she began speaking, I bumped into a daoist a day after I left the capital. This daoist possesses unfathomable means. Not only is he invulnerable to des and spears, but he possesses tremendous strength too. My hundred Wolf Army soldiers werent a match for him at all. We were forced to retreat.


    Ten Wolf Army soldiers escorted me away, while the others stayed behind to stall the daoist. What shocked me was how easily the daoist found me no matter where I ran and hid. Slowly, my escorts died one after another. In the end, I had no choice but to escape into your capital.


    Celestial Xiao turned to Fang Chen and sneered, That daoist is likely a Ki Manifestation expert. Your Great Xia has truly hidden its strength well. It looks like you have never truly submitted in the past five years no matter how subservient you all appeared.


    Daoist? Fang Chens face turned grim.


    <em>Her descriptions, invulnerable to des and spears and tremendous strengthwhy does that sound like the Protection Talisman and the Strength Talisman? Those are the entry talismans to the world of cultivation; they arent exclusive to the Three Thousand Dao Gate. Normal daoists are able to draw them too.</em>


    <em>If my guess is right, it means theres a cultivator hiding in our Great Xia!</em>


    <em>Though it might just be a martial artist too. There are a handful of martial arts that bolsters ones defense and grants one immense strength. </em>


    Fang Chen, do you know whos that daoist? Who sent him to kill me? Celestial Xiao asked.


    You mentioned earlier you couldnt shake him off, and he was able to easily find you no matter what you did? Fang Chen asked.


    Celestial Xiao nodded.


    With a wave of his hand, Fang Chen released a surge of spirit ki into Celestial Xiao. It didnt take him long to stumble upon something.


    What are you doing?! Celestial Xiao was rmed to see Fang Chen walking toward her.


    Dont move, Fang Chen ordered.


    He tightly grabbed Celestial Xiaos shoulder and furiously pumped his spirit ki into her. A secondter, a white worm writhed out of her skin.


    Celestial Xiao was horrified by this scene. <em>Why is there a worm inside my shoulder?!</em>


    This is how that daoist tracked your whereabouts, Fang Chen said before crushing the white worm into bits.


    By this point, it was certain that daoist was a cultivator, but there wasnt enough information for him to figure out how powerful the other party was.


    What kind of means is this?! Celestial Xiao stared fixated at Fang Chen as she held back her urge to puke.


    You can ask him yourself. Fang Chen turned his eyes in another direction.


    Celestial Xiao looked over too. A middle-aged man dressed in a light-red dao robe was standing quietly by the corner with a livid face.

 Chapter 26: Blood Spirit Cult

    Chapter 26: Blood Spirit Cult


    Celestial Xiaos body shuddered, as hatred shed across his eyes.


    The person before her was none other than the sinister daoist who had chased her all the way here.


    Our manors security is gettingx. Celestial Xiao snuck in, and this daoist pulled it off too. And I think Old Huang is still fast asleep? He has no sense of danger at all, Fang Chen murmured.


    He astral projected his soul and quietly assessed the daoist from mid-air. In this state, he could vividly sense the movements in the surroundings and react right away.


    Its him? Fang Chen was shocked to see the daoists face.


    He remembered setting this person six years ago at a banquet, but it had been too long ago that he couldnt remember whose banquet it was. During that period of time, he would attend at least ten banquets, big and small, every month.


    Only someone with spirit ki can force out my mother worm. The daoist looked at Fang Chen.


    <em>Spirit ki? Whats that?</em>


    Celestial Xiao struggled to understand the daoists words, though she understood that the white worm from earlier on was the mother worm.


    Fang Chen returned his soul to his body and asked, Youre a cultivator. Why are you trying to assassinate her?


    Knowing too much isnt beneficial to you. I didnte here today to be your enemy. Im here only to take her life, the daoist replied.


    I promised to let her return to Greenpine alive. Fang Chen smiled.


    Fang Chen, you seem to believe the world revolves around you just because others call you War God. You are nothing in the eyes of my kind, the daoist scoffed. Ill cut you if you get in my way.


    Your cultivation doesnt appear to be particrly strong. Dont you think itd be reckless of you to make a move on me? Fang Chen asked with a frown.


    He sensed that the other partys spirit ki was around the same level as him, probably third stage Ki Refinement at most. A single Purple Lightning Talisman should suffice in curbing this person.


    Hah! You dont seem to know a lot; you must be a new cultivator. Im curious to know how you came to possess spirit ki. I guess Ill have to drag you back with me and interrogate you.


    The daoist took out a little bell around the size of a palm and gently struck it.


    Weng!


    An inexplicable energy rippled outward and attempted to shake Fang Chens soul, but his soul was immovable like a mountain. This resulted in the energy rippling backward, and the little bell exploded into scrap metal.


    <em>Pu!</em>


    Fresh blood gushed out of the daoists mouth. He couldnt believe his eyes.


    <em>I actually suffered a bacsh from my Soul Suppressing Bell? Thats impossible! The Soul Suppressing Bell has the power to curb any cultivator of sixth stage Ki Refinement or below. Its a treasure my master bestowed it upon me after I made a huge contribution!</em>


    Celestial Xiao was dumbfounded. She didnt expect the enigmatic daoist to suddenly spew blood, especially since Fang Chen hadnt lifted a single finger from the start to the end.


    Where did this rate from? How dare you trouble our young master? Die! a voice bellowed.


    A giant suddenly appeared before the daoist. It smashed its massive fist into the daoist, smashing every inch of his bones and tendons.


    At the same time, a sword suddenly pierced through the daoists chest. It was pulled out, then plunged in a second time.


    Young master, are you all right? Tie Ma withdrew his sword before sping his fist at Fang Chen.


    Young master, this daoist is too brazen. He deserves death for troubling you, Huang Sihai cursed while spitting his saliva everywhere.


    Dont kill him. I have questions for him, Fang Chen said helplessly.


    Hes not dead yet. I made sure to leave a breath in him. Huang Sihai pulled the copsed daoist up with a single hand and bellowed, Oi, you better answer my young masters questions, you hear me? Try to pull anything, and Ill crush your head!


    The Giant Dragon General He has been let out of the Court of Great Brilliance? Celestial Xiao was stunned by the sight of Huang Sihai.


    The Xiao n was familiar with Huang Sihai. He was one of the Four Dragon Generals under Fang Chensmand, and he was known for his immense innate strength.


    A momentter, Celestial Xiao saw Tie Ma and was utterly shocked. Her shock swiftly turned into anger and disbelief.


    Why are you in Great Xia? Who ordered you to kill Celestial Xiao? Fang Chen walked up to the daoist and asked.


    The other party couldnt have gone after Celestial Xiao on a whim. Someone must have been behind this, but was there anyone in Great Xia who had the power to order a cultivator around?


    Fang Chen suddenly realized that the waters in the capital ran deeper than he had expected. He thought he knew Great Xia well, but the truth might not have been the case.


    Cough cough cough


    The daoist kept coughing blood, as indignation and resentment welled up in his eyes. He hadnt expected that a third stage Ki Refinement cultivator like him would die to two martial artists. His injuries were severe, such that his time was limited unless healed by a miraculous pill.


    F-Fang Chen, the Blood Spirit Cult will exact vengeance for me! It wont be long before you apany me down there. Hahaha The daoistughed eerily before his head fell limp.


    <em>The Blood Spirit Cult? </em>Fang Chen narrowed his eyes. <em>Thats obviously a cultivator sect!</em>


    Huang Sihai and Tie Ma frowned. Neither of them had heard about the Blood Spirit Cult.


    Tie Ma, have you always been Fang Chens subordinate? Celestial Xiao asked in disbelief.


    Thats right. Tie Ma nodded.


    Youre amazing, War God Fang. You nted a person in our Xiao n for so many years, and none of us noticed a thing at all. Even my father was fooled by Tie Ma! Celestial Xiao coldly spat.


    She finally understood why the Wolf Army would find itself disadvantaged by all sorts of coincidences at critical junctures before falling in defeat. It turned out there was a spy in their upper echelon!


    Tie Ma is my Hidden Dragon. Your Xiao n has also slipped many spies into our Great Xia over the years. Alls fair in war. We arent ying house here. This is nothing to be angry about, Fang Chen said. Youre injured. Have a rest. Ill have someone escort you back tomorrow.


    No, I wont go. Im not leaving until I get to the bottom of his background. Celestial Xiao nced at the daoists corpse.


    Old Huang, bring her down to rest. Break her legs if she tries anything funny, Fang Chen instructed.


    Huang Sihai grinned. He stepped forward, grabbed Celestial Xiao, and took his leave. Celestial Xiao was like a little chick in his hand, unable to oppose him at all.


    Tie Ma intended to search the daoists body, but Fang Chen shook his head and said, Ill do it. His items are unlikely to be normal. He might have prepared a means against us searching him, so well have to be extra careful.


    Fang Chen squatted down and searched the daoists corpse. He found a little porcin bottle and a bulging leather sack.

 Chapter 27: Blood Spirit Art

    Chapter 27: Blood Spirit Art


    Fang Chen first sensed the porcin bottle with his spirit ki and confirmed that it contained a plump white worm before opening it to take a look.


    This white worm was much plumper than the one extracted from Celestial Xiao. It was probably the mother of the mother worms.


    Fang Chen sent a jolt through his spirit ki, crushing both the porcin bottle and the mother worm into bits. He then opened the leather sack to check its contents.


    In it were twelve white stones, each around the size of a fingernail but harnessed concentrated spirit ki.


    Ki stone? This is good stuff. Fang Chens eyes lit up.


    The Three Thousand Dao Initiate Manual mentioned that ki stones were one of the essentials to a cultivator. They helped a cultivator cultivate faster through boosting their absorption speed of spirit ki.


    On top of that, ki stones were used as a currency among cultivators. Traditional money was worth nothing to cultivators; only ki stones had value.


    The twelve white stones fitted the description of low-grade ki stones.


    Other than the low-grade ki stones, Fang Chen also found a manualbeled Blood Spirit Art.


    Its his cultivation method! Fang Chens eyebrows shot up.


    He rummaged through the leather sack and quickly found a special token inscribed with the words: Dragonback Lane<em>.</em>


    Dragonback Lane? Sounds like a street name. It could be an exclusive ce since theres an identity token for it. It might be a ce where cultivators gather. Perhaps thats where the Blood Spirit Cult dwells, Fang Chen murmured.


    The daoist was dead, but his possessions still hinted at his background.


    Fang Chen casually flipped through the Blood Spirit Art manual, and hisplexion slowly turned grim, as he realized how vile it was. The cultivation method required a hundred portions of human blood essence to forge the Blood Spirit Immortal Vein!


    Once the Blood Spirit Immortal Vein was forged, they would be able to absorb human blood essence without any restraint, of which cultivators had the highest quality blood essence.


    This Blood Spirit Cult is not anything good. Whats its background? Why was a cultivator from the Blood Spirit Cult lying undercover in Great Xias capital? A cold gleam shed across Fang Chens eyes.


    By the nature of the Blood Spirit Art, it was likely this daoist had murdered many Great Xia civilians to absorb their blood essence during his time here.


    Fang Chen wouldnt allow such a thing to happen in Great Xia.


    Call Xu Ge here, Fang Chen ordered.


    Tie Ma nodded and quickly took his leave. He sensed that this matter was not simple, or else Fang Chen wouldnt have such a tight frown on his face.


    Xu Ge arrived in a hurry. His eyes narrowed when he noticed the daoists corpse on the floor.


    Young master, this person is? Xu Ge was perplexed.


    Remember his appearance and spread the news. I want all of the Shadow Guards to investigate this daoists identity in Great Xias capital, Fang Chen ordered.


    Xu Ge nodded. Rest assured, young master. Consider it done.


    Tie Ma began clearing the daoists corpse, while Fang Chen returned to his room and fiddled with the ki stones. Momentster, he drew his soul out of his body and gazed over the capital. There were lights at the Great Xia River and the imperial pce, but the city was mostly dark otherwise.


    Fang Chen scanned every inch ofnd, hoping to find clues about the daoist, but there was nothing worthy of note. Soon, his soul arrived above the imperial pce.


    It was then he sensed something emanating a sliver of danger, but he was unable to find the source behind this feeling. He could only tell it wasing from the imperial pce.


    Fang Chen pulled his soul back to his body. He looked in the direction of the imperial pce and solemnly murmured, Something is hidden in the imperial pce.


    It would be terrible if it was the cultivators from the Blood Spirit Cult. He thought about it, and he eventually decided not to risk rming them and instead slowly search for their trails.


    He was only at second stage Ki Refinement. It was unlikely he could deal with a cultivator sect even with his Purple Lightning Talismans.


    I havent sensed anything like that in the past five years. Cultivating might have induced some changes in my soul, Fang Chen muttered.


    He didnt think that it was a coincidence how he suddenly sensed a whiff of danger from the imperial pce at this juncture when he had never noticed anything in the past five years. It was more likely that his senses had gotten sharper after his recent breakthrough.


    At sunrise, Fang Chen paid a visit to Celestial Xiaos room and saw that she had already tidied herself up. Ill have you escorted out of the capital with our Fang ns carriageter on.


    I told you. I wont leave until I get to the bottom of this matter, Celestial Xiao replied.


    That daoist haspanions. Do you think you can make it out alive if they know youre here? Fang Chen sneered. Given your strength, you cant do anything.


    I heard you were on good terms with the Third Prince. Hes currently a hostage in our Greenpine Country. It has been a long time since the two of you got into contact, right? A glint shed across Celestial Xiaos eyes.


    Are you threatening me now? Fang Chens eyes turned cold.


    Its not a threat. Think about it. You have killed so many Greenpine martial artists. If my side learns about it, how do you think theyll deal with our hostage? As long as Im in your hands, my father will have no choice but to protect the Third Prince lest you harm me, Celestial Xiao said.


    She wanted to stay in Great Xias capital not just to uncover the daoists background but because she had just remembered a legend this morning. There had been rumors the stronger states had a way of cultivation superior to that of their martial artists, and she suspected that she had gotten a glimpse of itst night!


    This might be rted to Fang Chens resurgence. Celestial Xiaos heart hastened in excitement.


    It would be a huge thing to Greenpine Country if she could obtain that power. That could provide the impetus they needed to advance to a grade-8 state!


    Celestial Xiao, are you saying that the Third Prince will be executed if you die? Fang Chen asked.


    Celestial Xiaos vignce was piqued as she sensed a sharp edge behind his words. Fang Chen, dont mess around


    Answer me, Fang Chen interjected imposingly.


    Thats right. If I die, the same fate will befall the Third Prince of your Great Xia, Celestial Xiao replied.


    I should have known In Great Xias capital, who wishes the most for the Third Princes death? Fang Chen sneered.


    Youre saying that daoist was sent by the crown prince? He wants to kill me so as to force Greenpine Country to execute the Third Prince? Celestial Xiao was taken aback.


    She was familiar with Great Xias political situation, so she knew about the rivalry between the crown prince and the Third Prince.


    Its just a guess, but dont you think it makes sense? The crown prince learns that I have regained my martial cultivation, so he sends someone to kill you lest I attempt to bring back the Third Prince. Fang Chenughed. I finally remember where I met that daoist back then.


    It looks like your Great Xia isnt as simple as it seems Celestial Xiao turned severe.


    Why did Great Xia suffer a tragic defeat in the Three Realms Mountain if it had such power? She was starting to feel unnerved.

 Chapter 28: Non-aggression Poetry Festival

    Chapter 28: Non-aggression Poetry Festival


    Instead of sending Celestial Xiao out of the capital, Fang Chen came to an agreement with her.


    Celestial Xiao changed into a maid uniform and altered her looks to disguise as Fang Chens maid. The two of them then made their way to the Great Xia River.


    There was a poetry festival today. Not only were Great Xias outstanding youths and young misses going to be there, but schrs from Guhe, Longdu, and Yizhou would be participating too.


    The one hosting this poetry festival was the Great Xias crown prince, and the theme for the day was Non-aggression. It reflected a wish for a more peaceful world.


    Your Great Xias schrs must be carefree to squander their time on poetry. Our Greenpine men would rather spend their time sparring and bettering themselves, Celestial Xiao looked at the scene in disdain.


    Fang Chen chuckled.


    Hundreds of young schrs and misses were gathered by the Great Xia River. From time to time, they would indulge in the air of literary grace andpliment the scenery or criticize the current circumstances.


    Not all of these young schrs or misses were powerless. Most were martial artists, though their martial cultivation had stopped at Ki Condensation. It was hard to find anyone who had reached Ki Explosion amongst them.


    Fang Chens arrival initially didnt catch much attention, but as he made his way toward the center of the crowd, someone finally noticed him.


    Fang Chen?!


    Whats a martial artist doing at a poetry festival? Is he here to kill someone? It was just a few days ago that Li Huang died in his hands!


    Brother Li was an exceptional literary talent. He had a bright future, but he offended a brute and died a premature death. A pity indeed!


    Such whispers could be heard from the crowd. Most schrs didnt have a good impression of Fang Chen. In fact, they were his loudest critics when he fell in defeat five years ago.


    Even though Fang Chen had regained his cultivation, he had been forbidden from ever entering the imperial court or leading an army, which meant he would never regain the authority he once wielded. This lessened the schrs fear of him, and they saw him as a mere martial artist.


    Whats he doing here? Ye Qinghe stared at Fang Chen with a frown.


    He was apanied by talented youths and misses from distinguished backgrounds.


    The theme for todays poetry festival is Non-aggression, but it drew Great Xias greatest aggressor here. What an irony! a fair-faced young man sneered.


    He was Tao Yu, the son of the Minister of Rites. He was a famed schr in Great Xias capital, as well as one of the crown princes close aides. He and Ye Qinghe were dubbed as the crown princes Academic and Martial Guardians.


    Brother Tao, lets meet him. Ye Qinghe chuckled.


    Tao Yu proudly replied, Very well.


    The group of them made their way toward Fang Chen. The surrounding young schrs and misses tagged along upon noticing their movements.


    Isnt this War God Fang? I never expected you to grace this Non-aggression Poetry Festival with your presence, Tao Yu scoffed. Are you here to offer us some pointers?


    The crowd erupted intoughter.


    Fang Chen had never attended a poetry festival. In fact, he had studied at a school for no more than a few years before joining the military. It was likely that anyone here could fare better than him when it came to poetry.


    Celestial Xiao was curious to know how Fang Chen would react to Tao Yus ridicule. <em>Will he draw his sword and behead him?</em>


    Itd be fun if he massacres all of them. Celestial Xiao smirked.


    You are? Fang Chen looked at Tao Yu quizzically.


    Tao Yus smile froze in ce, as he hadnt expected Fang Chen to not know him. The nearby schrs and young misses also exchanged gazes.


    Fang Chen, you dont know the number one schr of Great Xias capital? I guess thats no surpriseing from a brute who has no appreciation for literature, Ye Qinghe saved Tao Yu from embarrassment while hurling an insult at Fang Chen.


    Ah, youre the number one schr of our Great Xias capital. Fang Chen nodded in realization. I have been idle, and I heard the crown prince was holding a poetry festival. I came here to join in themotion and surround myself with the scent of paper and ink.


    Those words reduced the crowds enmity toward Fang Chen. <em>At least he knows his own ce. </em>In truth, they were excited by Fang Chens participation as it boosted the prestige of this event.


    Celestial Xiao was disappointed that she didnt see the scenery she anticipated.


    Why? Am I not weed here? Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    Of course not. Im pleased to hear that years of reflection have changed your view of poetry. Youre more than weed here. Tao Yu said with a smile. He flung his sleeves and gestured at the seats. War God Fang, please take a seat.


    Fang Chen casually took a seat. He looked around and asked, Is His Highness not here yet?


    His Highness is inviting Jade Fairy, Ye Qinghe replied.


    Those gathered here were from outstanding backgrounds, but their eyes lit up when they heard Jade Fairys name. There was no one in Great Xias capital who hadnt heard about the ethereal goddess gracing the Jade Fairy Boat.


    Ordinary people might not even get a chance to meet her even if they bankrupted themselves.


    A secr woman is participating in todays poetry festival? one of the young misses murmured her dissatisfaction.


    However, they had to hold back theirints as the crown prince was the one hosting the poetry festival.


    Just then, a procession could be spotted from afar. Ye Qinghe and the others stood up and patiently waited as the procession approached. It was the crown prince, though more eyes fell upon the beautiful figure standing next to him.


    It really is Jade Fairy!


    She looks ravishing! Theres probably no woman who canpete with her in Great Xias capital No, Id say shes unrivaled even in Greenpine, Guhe, Longdu, and Yizhou! someone eximed.


    Celestial Xiao snorted at those words. She was initially indignant to hear those words, but she couldnt help but be awed when she finally got a good look at Jade Fairy.


    To think theres such a woman in the world Celestial Xiao was stunned.


    The schrs from Guhe and the other countries were enraptured too.


    This poetry festival isplete with your arrival, Jade Fairy, the crown prince said with a smile.


    He took a sweeping nce and spotted Fang Chen.


    Jade Fairy noticed Fang Chen too. With a faint smile, she said, Your Highness, youre ttering me. Its my honor to join the poetry festival.


    The crown prince chuckled. Lust flickered across his eyes as he admired Jade Fairys side profile.

 Chapter 29: Utter Rubbish

    Chapter 29: Utter Rubbish


    The crown prince led Jade Fairy over, and the two of them took their seats.


    Their arrival marked themencement of the Non-aggression Poetry Festival. The participants were more motivated than ever, as they intended to leave their mark with the poem they had prepared beforehand.


    War God Fang, what brings you here today? the crown prince casually eyed Fang Chen and asked.


    Tao Yu answered on behalf of Fang Chen, Your Highness, War God Fang said that hed like to surround himself with the scent of brush and ink.


    I see. The crown prince nodded. Thats good too. Youre not allowed to join the imperial court or lead an army, so it might be good for you to develop your literary talents and elevate our Great Xias rich culture. You are a prodigy in martial arts. Who knows? Your talents might spill over to poetry too.


    Your Highness, have you seen a brute reciting poetry? Ye Qingheughed.


    Quite a few in the crowdughed as well.


    Jade Fairy frowned. She made sure to remember the faces of those who hadughed, especially Tao Yu and Ye Qinghe.


    Fang Chen leisurely waved his hand and replied, Im here to immerse myself in the festival, not to have idle conversations with you. Hurry up and begin.


    The crowd was startled by his rudeness.


    The crown prince ignored Fang Chen and instead addressed the crowd with a smile, The theme for todays poetry festival is non-aggression. Is there anyone who would like to start things off for us?


    A person volunteered himself and recited the poem he had prepared. His poem won loud apuse and cheers from the crowd.


    <em>Utter nonsense.</em> Fang Chen apuded with a smile as he nonchntly kept an eye on the crown princes servants.


    As more non-aggression poems were recited, the atmosphere in the poetry festival slowly crescendoed. No one paid any attention to Fang Chen anymore. They were focused on making a name for themselves and leaving an impression on the crown prince, in hopes that it would benefit them in the future.


    His servants are martial artists, and the strongest one is only at pinnacle Ki Explosion. I dont see any traces of the Blood Spirit Cult, though Fang Chens eyes narrowed.


    He had already mobilized his men. They would be able to uncover the rtionship between the daoist and the crown prince by today, if any. The nature of this matter would change if the crown prince was rted to the Blood Spirit Cult.


    Zealous knights trudge up cold cloud peaks, loyal souls buried deep in Three Realms.


    Ambitions fade under the tragedy of war, only cries of kin echo in somber.


    Great poem!


    I expect no less from our Great Xias number one schr! After hearing this poem, I can almost see countless valiant soulsmenting their eternal separation from their family members.


    Brother Tao, I believe Great Xia wille to know true peace once you join the imperial court in the near future. May Great Xia be blessed with a century of peace and merriment, just like our Guhe.


    Roaring cheers broke out, as the crowd offered high praises for Tao Yus poem. It was as if they had been brought to the battle of the Three Realms Mountain, witnessing the death of countless loyal soldiers.


    Tao Yu gracefully waved his fan with a smile, but his gaze fell upon Fang Chen.


    This poem was alluding to him, and the crowd knew. Many of those who had been ignoring Fang Chens presence turned to him, their eyes reflecting anger, resentment, dissatisfaction, and contempt.


    Celestial Xiao also looked at Fang Chen expectantly, curious to know his next move.


    Tao Yu was clearly criticizing and mocking Fang Chen by reciting this poem in front of him.


    Jade Fairy nced at Tao Yu. Thetter sensed her gaze and responded with a nod. He felt gleeful to have won Jade Fairys favor through his poem.


    Jade Fairy, what do you think about Brother Taos poem? the crown prince asked.


    Do offer me some pointers, Jade Fairy. Tao Yu sped his fist.


    This poem


    The eyes of the crowd shone in anticipation. They were curious to hear Jade Fairys opinion of Tao Yus poem. It could be a highlight of this poetry festival.


    This poem is trash, Jade Fairy earnestly replied after a moment of thought.


    The crowd was taken aback. They looked at one another in confusion.


    <em>Are we hearing things? Or did Jade Fairy misspeak?</em>


    Tao Yus face stiffened up.


    The crown prince was startled, but he quickly recovered and asked, What makes you say so, Jade Fairy? I think Tao Yus poem reflects the tragedy of war well. Its a fitting take on our theme of non-aggression.


    Your Highness, I am not as well-learned as the young masters and misses here. I know war is tragic, but Great Xia is in shambles after the storms we have weathered. A one-sided desire for peace will only make us an easy target for our enemies.


    I believe our people should bare their fangs and cut down the enemies that covet ournd and resources. Only when our enemies dare noty their ws on us can we push for true peace, Jade Fairy said.


    The crowd fell silent.


    Celestial Xiao was surprised. She took another look at Jade Fairy. <em>This woman is wise. </em>


    The crown princesplexion turned awful. The theme he had chosen for this poetry festival was Non-aggression, but little did he expect that the guest he had invited was pro-war!


    He felt like he had been viciously pped on the face, but it wouldnt reflect well on him if others learned that he hadshed out at a dance artisan, so he had no choice but to hold himself back.


    What about the soldiers who died? Whos going to take responsibility for that? Tao Yu asked as he nced at Fang Clen.


    Jade Fairy looked at Tao Yu and asked, Countless civilians will die if our enemies invade us. Are you going to take responsibility for that, young master Tao?


    The schrs revealed looks of contemtion.


    The schrs from Guhe, Longdu, and Yizhou hadnt expected to see such a scene. They hade to this poetry festival to join in themotion and be acquainted with thedies of Great Xias capital.


    Jade Fairy, Great Xia will have no enemies if it refuses to fight. That was how our Guhe enjoyed a century of peace, a woman from Guhe argued. She turned to the crown prince and said. Your Highness, the secr woman you have invited will only sully the atmosphere of your poetry festival.


    The crowd fell silent.


    This woman Long Huixin, and she was from the strongest n in Guhe Empire, the Long n. She was stationed in Great Xias capital to facilitate ore trade between Guhe and Great Xia.


    Jade Fairy smiled at Long Huixin with cid eyes; she had no intention of debating with thetter.


    To her surprise, Fang Chen turned to Long Huixin and said, Your Guhe Empire is rich in ores, but your people live in poverty even though your country has no more than ten million civilians. Thats because you offer 70% of your ores as tribute to a grade-8 state, and the grade-8 state ensures your safety in return. That was how you and your people enjoyed a century of peace.


    It was then that Fang Chens voice suddenly became sharper. Your nobles and aristocrats sleep in peace thanks to the deal you have struck, but how many of your civilians are cold and starving? Whats the use of peace without prosperity?

 Chapter 30: Flying General of the Dragon City

    Chapter 30: Flying General of the Dragon City


    Fang Chens words stunned the present Guhe schrs. Frustration could be seen on their faces. Long Huixins expression changed numerous times.


    Most Great Xia schrs knew next to nothing about Guhes affairs. They didnt know that not everyone in Guhe was entitled to studying or joining the army. Most of their people spent their entire life as miners, and their children were doomed to inherit their trade.


    Only the offspring of major ns need not worry about food and clothes, and had the right to climb up the ranks. There was strict social segregation in the country.


    In fact, Guhe had strictly kept martial cultivation exclusive to the major ns. Its normal popce were forbidden from bing martial artists no matter how talented they were.


    Guhes nobles had sealed off all ways for its people to climb up the ranks.


    What rights do you have to be preaching here? Do you think Greenpine can climb over our heads if our Great Xia gives up on its civilians and religiously offers tribute to a stronger nation? Fang Chen asked with a mocking smile.


    Long Huixins face paled. Secondster, she roared in anger, Dont talk nonsense, Fang Chen! How are our people cold and starving?


    If a blind man like me can see it, a Long nsman like you shouldnt remain oblivious to it, Fang Chen calmly replied. Our Great Xia is fighting with Greenpine so that our people can fill their stomachs and have a tub of hot coal in winter. I agree with Jade Fairy. Those who dont know their people are struggling shouldnt preach about peace and non-aggression.


    Jade Fairys eyes lit up. Her heart filled with sweetness as she peeked at Fang Chen. She knew he was usually unbothered by such petty arguments, and the reason he had berated Long Huixin was because thetter called her a secr woman!


    Celestial Xiao alternated her gaze between Fang Chen and Jade Fairy, as she keenly sensed something between the two of them.


    Jade Fairy sensed her gaze and looked over, only to frown in confusion upon seeing Celestial Xiao. <em>The young master doesnt have a personal maid. Why did he bring a maid out with him today? Something is amiss!</em>


    Feeling threatened, Jade Fairy red at Celestial Xiao with frosty eyes.


    War God Fang, were in a poetry festival. Its normal to disagree about the verses, such as in the case of Miss Long and Jade Fairy. Its unwise for someone who knows not about poetry like you to get involved, Ye Qinghe spoke up.


    Long Huixin and the others had awful looks on their faces. They intended to take their leave, but Longdu and Yizhous schrs persuaded them to stay.


    As the one who hade up with the poem, Tao Yu was enraged to have his poem criticized. He directed his anger toward Fang Chen and said, War God Fang, you have immersed yourself in this poetry festival for some time now. You have made it clear you disagree with our theme of non-aggression, so why dont you voice out your thoughts through a poem so that we can see your point of view?


    You want me to write a poem? Youre putting me in a spot but I have once seen a poem in an ancient book that reflects my thoughts. Why dont I recite it aloud? Fang Chen said.


    Go ahead, the crown prince said.


    All eyes were on Fang Chen.


    Jade Fairy and Celestial Xiao were intrigued, as they knew that Fang Chen knew next to nothing about poetry. Why would someone like that read an ancient poetry book?


    Fang Chen closed his eyes, and a smile slowly formed on his lips.


    How the moon yearns for the time of great Qin, the castle gates, Han. Of the soldiers on long marches, so far returned not one man! If the dreaded Flying General of Dragon City were here, no Mongul horsemen would dare to cross the Yin Mountains frontier!


    His soft voice, under the propagation of his spirit ki, was clearly ryed to everyone.


    The crowd let the poem steep for a moment, then they turned to Fang Chen in bewilderment.


    Wheres Qin and Han?


    Mongul horsemen? What are those?


    Flying General Is he talking about himself here?


    What a wonderful poem! Jade Fairy eximed.


    Dont bother guessing. I wasnt the one who wrote the poem, and the context isnt in Great Xia, Fang Chen said before he rose to his feet and walked away.


    In his mind, a sliver of the memories he had suppressed for 23 years surfaced.


    Celestial Xiao hurriedly followed him with a grim face. She had a feeling that the Mongul horsemen was alluding to Greenpine!


    Your Highness, Im not feeling well. Id like to head back and rest. Jade Fairy got up and took her leave.


    The crown prince nodded. He ordered his men to escort her back, but Jade Fairy turned down his goodwill.


    Both Fang Chen and Jade Fairy had left, but they had left a ripple on this Non-aggression Poetry Festival. Silence loomed amidst the crowd.


    Someone was still murmuring the poem Fang Chen had recited.


    Tao Yus face turned livid. Jade Fairy had said his poem was trash, only topliment Fang Chens. He saw this as a great humiliation.


    Cough cough War God Fang has already said that he wasnt the one who wrote that poem, Ye Qinghe interjected. Itd be best not to think too much into it.


    The crowd quietly stared at Ye Qinghe.


    <em>The poem wasnt written by Fang Chen? But why have we never heard about it before?</em>


    Everyone, there was a brief interruption, but lets return to our theme of non-aggression, the crown prince said.


    The crowd nodded, but the crown prince could tell from their contemtive expressions that his Non-aggression Poetry Festival had failed. He coldly red at Fang Chens departing figure.


    <em>If the dreaded Flying General of Dragon City is here? </em>Itd be a blessing to Great Xia if you arent here, the crown prince mumbled under his breath.


    After leaving the Great Xia River, Fang Chen made his way to the teahouse he frequented. Along the way, Celestial Xiao asked, Was that earlier poem about Great Xia and Greenpine?


    It isnt. Fang Chen shook his head. Greenpine isnt worthy.


    That response had Celestial Xiao seething in anger. She coldly spat, Whats the purpose of attending that poetry festival? Are your men looking into that daoists background?


    No rush. Well talk at the teahouse. Fang Chen smiled.


    The two of them soon arrived at the teahouse. The people here were already ustomed to Fang Chens presence, though their attitudes had changed since learning that Fang Chen had regained his martial cultivation.


    Heres your tea, War God Fang, a waiter served Fang Chen his favorite tea.


    He nced at Celestial Xiao before obediently taking his leave.


    Fang Chen picked up his teacup. There was a note in it.


    With her sharp eyes, Celestial Xiao saw what was written on it.


    <em>Six years ago, in a banquet hosted by the crown prince, the daoist was a part of the Fifth KIngs procession. </em>


    Fang Chen was stunned. <em>Fifth King? The carefree man, who is content being the master of the Court of Great Brilliance and was half a foot into retirement, has ties with the Blood Spirit Cult? </em>


    Something is wrong with your Fifth King. Someone with such powerful people under hismand wouldnt be content with settling administrative issues, Celestial Xiao said.


    Credit for the poem trantion: Frank C Yue. Retrieved from /2013/03/how-moon-yearns-for-time-of-great-qin.html


    <strong>Quick content about kings</strong>:


    In ancient China, King is a nobility/title conferred to princes who dont be the emperor. This title doesnt necessarily confer them authority, which is a bit simr to how you can be a nobleman but not possess anynd, military power, or influence.


    That being said, it puts them at the top of the nobility hierarchy, so others would have to pay respect to them.

 Chapter 31: Young Master, You Have to Keep Your Promise!

    Chapter 31: Young Master, You Have to Keep Your Promise!


    It might not necessarily be the Fifth King, Fang Chen said.


    He had taken the trouble to visit the Non-aggression Poetry Festival to see if the crown prince had cultivators amongst his entourage, but there wasnt any. Of course, this wasnt enough for him to conclude anything.


    For now, he had confirmed that the daoist had indeed stayed in Great Xia for a period of time.


    Having seen the Blood Spirit Art manual, he knew that a cultivator who started practicing the cultivation method wouldnt be able to stop feeding on human blood essence. The daoist had stayed in the capital for quite some time; many civilians must have died in his hand.


    He must have left traces behind. I should look into that, Fang Chen muttered. He nced at Xu Ge and instructed, Bring her back to the manor. Have Old Huang keep an eye on her.


    Xu Ge walked up to Celestial Xiao and shed her a smile. Lets go.


    Where are you going? Celestial Xiao asked with a frown.


    What does it have to do with you? Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    Iming with you, Celestial Xiao insisted.


    We have made an agreement, but that doesnt mean you can follow me wherever I go. If you cant understand this basic principle, Ill escort you out of the capital right away, Fang Chen said before walking away.


    Celestial Xiao clenched her fists as she fell silent.


    Youre acting as if my young master has really married into your Xiao n. Dont forget that youre our hostage right now, Xu Ge said with a smirk.


    Hmph! Celestial Xiao harrumphed before obediently following Xu Ge back to the manor.


    Meanwhile, Fang Chen made his way to the Shadow Courtyard. He patiently waited for a couple of minutes before a figure silently appeared behind him.


    The figure sped his fist and asked, Young master, is there anything I can do for you?


    Director Zhao, has there been anything amiss regarding the Court of Great Brilliances cases over thest few years? Fang Chen turned around and asked with a faint smile.


    The person who came was none other than Director Zhao, the superior of all rectifiers in the Court of Great Brilliance. He was the one who sent Yuan Zhuang to apprehend Fang Chen back then.


    Director Zhaos eyebrows shot up. <em>Why would the young master suddenly ask about the Court of Great Brilliances cases? </em>He thought hard about it before answering with a suppressed voice, Young master, there are a few cases that have left me baffled over thest few years.


    Tell me more. Fang Chen nodded.


    Two years ago, someone came to our Court of Great Brilliance to report that his younger sister has gone missing in her employers manor for many years now. We looked into it and found his younger sister working as a maid in the Vice Minister of Rites manor. One of my subordinates, Yuan Zhuang, went over to investigate the matter, and he was informed that the younger sister might have eloped with someone.


    The case was left like that, but not longter, Yuan Zhuang discovered that the person who reported the case had gone missing too. His severely ill mother nearly starved to death in her house. I suspect the person who reported the case was silenced, so I had my men to continue their investigation.


    At this point, Director Zhao looked at Fang Chen before continuing, Many people have disappeared from the Vice Minister of Rites manor in recent years. This case is one of many. Thus, I entrusted this case to the court master, since he was the only one with the authority to order for the apprehension of the Minister of Rites.


    What happened next? Fang Chen asked.


    Director Zhao stroked his beard. The supervisor suppressed the matter. He imed that those people disappeared because they stole expensive items from the Vice Minister of Rites manor and escaped. That exnation sounded usible to me as my manor had such servants too.


    So, what about it bothers you? Fang Chen asked.


    First, the person who reported the matter to us was a famous filial son in the area. No matter the reason, he couldnt have abandoned his severely ill mother and disappeared into thin air.


    Second, one of Yuan Zhuangs constables had his arm chopped off while investigating this matter. It was a threat directed at us to not continue investigating the matter.


    Director Zhao paused before saying, For my subordinates safety, I suppressed the matter then. Even so, I would keep an eye out for the happenings on the Vice Minister of Rites side.


    Did any more of their subordinates disappear after that? Fang Chen asked.


    Not anymore. Director Zhao shook his head, but his eyes swiftly turned sharp. Young master, do you think that theres something amiss about this too?


    Get your subordinates to look into all disappearances in the capital over thest six no,st twenty years. Some cases arent filed at the Court of Great Brilliance as they dont involve officials; those would be at the local magistrate office. You should know what to do, Fang Chen said.


    Director Zhaos expression turned solemn. He nodded before backing away.


    <em>This matter must be of importance if it has caught the young masters attention. There might be a greater force at y, or it might even be rted to Greenpine!</em>


    Young master, have you concluded your conversation with Director Zhao? Is it my turn now? Jade Fairy quietly appeared shortly after Director Zhao left.


    She had followed Fang Chens group all the way here. Through her proficient movement skills and disguise techniques, she was able to avoid the notice of others along the way.


    I have no instructions for you, Fang Chen said.


    Young master, whats the background of the maid you brought with you today? Jade Fairy asked out of curiosity.


    Celestial Xiao, Fang Chen replied.


    Astonishment flickered across Jade Fairys eyes. Celestial Xiao? Why would she


    She volunteered to be a hostage. This way, Wolf Marshall Xiao would bail the Third Prince out when Greenpine finds out that I have massacred their martial artists in the capital, Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    She must not know about the Third Princes scheme. It wont be easy for Greenpine to kill him. Jade Fairy couldnt help but chuckle.


    That fellow has a sharp mind. He probably hasnt been idling around during the five years he spent at Greenpine. If he wished so, he would have already returned to Great Xias capital. Fang Chen nodded in agreement. It wont be long before he returns once he learns about the happenings in the capital.


    The crown prince had been worried Fang Chen would rescue the Third Prince, but that was only because he didnt know what the Third Prince was capable of.


    The Third Prince had volunteered to be a hostage at Greenpine, but Fang Chen was confident that he had already acquired the means to return to Great Xia whenever he wanted. The two of them shared simr goals. For Great Xias countless civilians, they wouldnt easily throw their lives away.


    Young master, you kept Celestial Xiao by your side despite knowing that. Are you attracted to her looks? Celestial Xiao doesnt have a clean private life, Jade Fairy said with a gloomy tone.


    Someone hopes for her death, but Wolf Marshall Xiao did spare me at Three Realms Mountain five years ago, Fang Chen said with a sigh. No matter what, Ill protect Celestial Xiao until she returns to Greenpine.


    Then Cant I be your maid too? Someone called me a secr woman today. I feel indignant, Jade Fairy muttered with a lowered head.


    Lets talk about it after you reach Ki Control. Fang Chen flung his sleeves and took his leave.


    Ki Control? Jade Fairys eyes lit up. Young master, you have to keep your promise!

 Chapter 32: Fang Cangyou’s Legs

    Chapter 32: Fang Cangyou¡¯s Legs


    Oh? My spirit ki has increased a fair bit. I should be able to forge the third immortal vein soon Immortal cultivation really isnt tough at all


    Fang Chen spent an entire night drawing talismans again. He now had fifty Purple Lightning Talismans, as well as arge handful of Flitting Talismans, Strength Talismans, and Protection Talismans.


    He hadnt slept at all during this period of time. He might have been able to pull off a simr feat back when he was a Ki Manifestation martial artist, but he wouldnt have been able to remain as spirited as he currently was.


    He felt like endless energy was surging inside him, thanks to his spirit ki.


    Once I stockpile enough talismans, Ill distribute some of them to the Shadow Guards. It might save their lives in times of danger.


    Fang Chen left his room and made his way to the sparring field.


    Fang Cangyou often spent his free time at the sparring field. He would push his wheelchair there to watch the Fang nsmen spar with the guards.


    Fang Chen watched themotion on the sparring field, as a faint smile formed on his lips. There was a mix of people on the sparring field. Some of them were from the main family, some were from the branch families, but most were military orphans.


    Fang Canghai didnt request the orphans to change their surname, but he treated them the same as the others. Whatever the Fang nsmen enjoyed, they would get a share of it as well.


    Chener, what brings you here today? Fang Cangyou suddenly turned around and looked at Fang Chen with curious eyes.


    Second uncle, Id like to inspect your leg injury, Fang Chen said.


    Fang Cangyous eyes became downcast. He looked at his own legs and shook his head. Whats there to see? My meridians have been severed. I wont be able to stand up for the rest of my life.


    Three years ago, someone wrote a protest memorial, urging the emperor to execute Fang Chen for the deaths of the 600,000 soldiers at Three Realms Mountain.


    This memorial incited civilians to cause trouble at the Fang Manor, and even Fang Canghais West Tiger Barracks started showing signs of instability.


    Yet, the imperial pce kept its silence, allowing the matter to continue worsening.


    Unable to stand it, Fang Cangyou stormed the imperial pce to berate the emperor. Themander of the imperial guards, Yan Beihan, was rmed, so he shot an arrow that pierced through Fang Cangyous legs.


    In the end, the empress stepped forward and cated both sides, and the matter ended with Fang Cangyou losing his legs.


    Fang Chen lost his eyes and had his ki sea destroyed, whereas Fang Cangyou lost both legs. The only ones left to prop up the Fang n were the old master and Fang Canghai. On top of that, the old master wouldnt have long to live if he couldnt make a breakthrough soon.


    The Fang ny low for a period of time afterward, and no one stepped out to deal with the Fang n, presumably because no one thought they were a threat anymore.


    I might have a way to reconnect your meridians now that I have regained my martial cultivation, Fang Chen said.


    Fang Cangyou stared at him before sighing. Push me to the rear courtyard.


    In the rear courtyard, Fang Chen was about to examine Fang Cangyous injury with his spirit ki when thetter suddenly stood up from the wheelchair and began hopping around. He smacked his legs and said, I told you. Theres no need to check on my legs.


    Fang Chen was stunned.


    His bbergasted expression evoked augh from Fang Cangyou. You didnt expect it, right? This is the first time in the past twenty years I have seen such a surprised look on your face!


    Second uncle, your legs have been fine all this while? Fang Chen was confused.


    Of course! Do you think that I, Fang Cangyou, would be that easily crippled? Fang Cangyou sneered before settling back into his wheelchair and carefully cing the rug over his legs.


    But why did you


    Those people might pull something if they find out my legs are fine, so I figured Id let them get their way and see how pitiful our Fang n is. You have lost your eyes and your ki sea, and I have lost my legs. Surely His Majesty cant turn a blind eye to our plight and allow others to run their mouths anymore, right? Fang Cangyou sneered.


    It has been hard on you, second uncle. Theres no need for you to put on an act anymore, Fang Chen said with a bitter smile.


    No way. I have disguised myself well so far; even you fell for it. This works in our favor. No one thinks that Im a threat. If something happens, I can be a hidden ace of our Fang n and catch our enemies off guard, Fang Cangyou snickered.


    He was a pinnacle Ki Explosion martial artist, after all. Others only overlooked him because he had lost his legs.


    All right. Ill take my leave then, Fang Chen replied with a nod. <em>If second uncle wishes to continue the act, so be it. </em>


    Wait! You have to push me back to the sparring field, Fang Cangyou eximed.


    Fang Chen waved his hand as he continued to walk away. It didnt take long for him to disappear from Fang Cangyous eyes.


    That brat! Where the hell did Xu Ge disappear to for the past two days? Fang Cangyou clicked his tongue before slowly pushing himself back to the sparring field.


    Fang Chen returned to the Shadow Courtyard.


    In the span of a night, Director Zhao hadpiled a massive heap of cases that stacked to the height of an adult man.


    Young master, here are the reported disappearance cases in thest twenty years. I have browsed through them, and there are many suspicious details surrounding them. In particr, there was a huge spike in disappearances eight years ago, Director Zhao reported.


    Are there anything amiss about the cases beyond eight years ago? Fang Chen asked.


    Not much. Most were ordinary cases, and some of them had already returned to their respective families, Director Zhao replied.


    Fang Chen nodded. <em>Since thats the case, I should focus on the cases starting from eight years ago. </em>He did a rough count and found that there were over a thousand of such cases!


    This meant that a person disappeared once every three days, and these were merely the reported cases. There were bound to be some disappearances that went unreported too.


    All in all, the number of people who had disappeared from Great Xias capital was shocking!


    With a heavy heart, Fang Chen began browsing through the cases together with Director Zhao, and it didnt take him to spot many suspicious details.


    Time ticked by, and the sky darkened.


    Fang Chen decided to further investigate three of the more recent cases, as well as the one involving the Vice Minister of Rites two years ago. It couldnt be a coincidence that no one else had disappeared from the Vice Minister of Rites manor after that case.


    <em>If these cases are rted to the Blood Spirit Cult, I should be able to figure out who they are working with by following the trail. I wont let even the slightest detail slip. </em>


    Young master, is this matter rted to Greenpine? Director Zhao asked.


    Fang Chen looked at him and chuckled. Greenpine? Theres no need to worry about them anymore. This case involves something more serious than Greenpine. That rectifier I met the other day is called Yuan Zhuang, right? Is he trustworthy?


    Yuan Zhuang? I watched him grow. Hes a passionate fellow, but I dare not say that hes trustworthy, Director Zhao replied.


    Its good you havent forgotten your vignce. Fang Chen nodded with a smile.


    The most important thing for a Shadow Guard was to not easily trust others, with the exception of the young master.


    Tell him to look for me tomorrow. Fang Chen picked up the cases he had selected before leaving the Shadow Courtyard.

 Chapter 33: Investigate!

    Chapter 33: Investigate!


    Cousin, are you certain War God Fang wants to meet us? Youre just a small rectifier in the Court of Great Brilliance. That might be better than a constable like me, but its nowhere enough to catch the eye of War God Fang! Stop bragging to me. Well be embarrassed if others see us getting thrown out of the Fang Manor!


    A tall, copper-skinned woman dressed in a ck robe eyed the Fang Manor while whispering nervously to Yuan Zhuang.


    Bragging? I was the one who apprehended War God Fang to the Court of Great Brilliance! Yuan Zhuang gulped in inconfidence. He was worried, but he didnt want to embarrass himself in front of his cousin.


    Besides, War God Fang only requested to meet me. You wouldnt have this chance to expand your horizons if you didnt happen to be on the same shift as me. Watch your tongueter on. Getting on good terms with the Fang Manor may make it easier for you to settle matters in this region in the future, Yuan Zhuang added.


    Yuan Yu was still skeptical.


    It was then that a Fang ns servant walked out and sped his fist, saying, Lord Yuan, our young master invites you in for a chat.


    Disbelief shed across Yuan Yus eyes as she dazedly stared at Yuan Zhuang. <em>War God Fang really invited my cousin here for a chat? When did my cousin get such powerful connections?</em>


    Ahem. I have a subordinate with me today Yuan Zhuang nced at Yuan Yu.


    Ill bring her to the guest room to rest afterward. Our young master has only requested for you, the servant politely replied.


    Yuan Zhuang nodded. He reminded Yuan Yu once more to not embarrass herself before he followed the servant to Fang Chens room.


    It didnt take long before Yuan Zhuang met Fang Chen. Thetter was quietly practicing an exercise fist routine. It was hard to imagine that this suave youth was their Great Xias War God!


    Have a seat, Lord Yuan. Fang Chen retracted his fist before gesturing to a nearby stone chair.


    <em>I thought hes supposed to be blind Did he recognize me from my footsteps? Thats terrifying! </em>Yuan Zhuang was taken aback.


    He carefully walked over to the stone chair and took a seat, only to shoot to his feet right after. He awkwardly sped his fist and said, War God Fang, may I know the reason you called this humble one here today?


    I am but a civilian. You need not be so polite around me, Fang Chen replied with a smile, though he didnt harp on it. He got to the point and said, I received a couple of cases, and I believe theres something amiss about them. You should be well-versed in this field, being a rectifier from the Court of Great Brilliance. Why dont you take a look at them?


    He tossed the case documents to Yuan Zhuang.


    Yuan Zhuang caught those case documents, and the first case document he saw was about the maid who went missing in the Vice Minister of Rites manor two years ago. This shocked him.


    War God Fang, this is


    Take a good look before answering me, Fang Chen said.


    Y-yes! Yuan Zhuang anxiously nodded before burying his head into the case documents. Around an hourter, he looked up with a grim expression, saying, War God Fang, theres indeed something dubious about these cases, but


    A bitter look appeared on Yuan Zhuangs face these cases are closed.


    Lets first talk about the case involving the Vice Minister of Rites. The younger sister went missing, so the older brother reported her disappearance to the Court of Great Brilliance. Shortly after, the older brother disappeared too, leaving their severely ill mother alone at home, Fang Chen said with a smile. Do you think it makes sense?


    Its illogical. Yuan Zhuang honestly shook his head. But Lord Supervisor vetted this case and concluded it. The maid stole many valuables from the Vice Minister of Rites manor and eloped with someone else.


    Do you agree with his verdict? Fang Chen asked.


    I dont but what can I do? Yuan Zhuang asked bitterly.


    Investigate it then, Fang Chen said. If you dont agree, dig deeper into it. A day wille when the truth finallyes to light.


    War God Fang, do you know something? Yuan Zhuang asked.


    I dont know much more than you, or else I wouldnt have to call you here in the first ce. Shall we first pay a visit to the siblings house? Fang Chen asked.


    Yuan Zhuang reflexively nodded, only to be shocked when he btedly realized what he had just heard. <em>War God Fang is going to investigate this case with me? This </em>He felt like he was dreaming.


    War God Fang, I have a subordinate waiting for me in your guest room. Please allow me to send her off before apanying you, Yuan Zhuang said.


    Bring her along. Were not doing anything shady, so theres no need to hide, Fang Chen said.


    Thisss sure is lucky. Its her first day at work, but shes already working on a case together with War God Fang Yuan Zhuang mumbled under his breath.


    Yuan Yu was bored out of her mind waiting in the guest room when she suddenly heard a roar. She stood up to take a look.


    It was Fang Zhixue practicing her swordsmanship in the courtyard. She was sparring with twelve young men, who were decently strong martial artists, but none of themsted more than a blow from her.


    Youre too weak! If you had worked harder as I have told you to, you wouldnt have been stuck at Ki Condensation at your age! Fang Zhixue berated in dissatisfaction.


    Big sister Zhixue, theres no way we can catch up with you. You have been practicing the Profound Heaven Form from a young age, whereas we only started practicing it a few years ago the young man grumbled.


    Fang Zhixue?! Isnt that War God Fangs little sister, a prodigious martial artist who has reached Ki Explosion despite her young age? Yuan Yu was astonished.


    She was a few years older than Fang Zhixue, but she was only at mid Ki Condensation.


    You are? Fang Zhixue sensed Yuan Yus presence, so she turned around and saw a woman dressed in a constable uniform. Her eyes gleamed in curiosity.


    M-Miss Fang! I am Yuan Yu, a constable from the Court of Great Brilliance. My superior is Rectifier Yuan Zhuang! Yuan Yu quickly sped her fist and introduced herself.


    Court of Great Brilliance?! What are you doing in our Fang Manor? Are you here to catch my big brother again? Youre too much! Fang Zhixue roared in anger.


    Yuan Yu knew that she had misunderstood, but before she could exin herself, a crisp voice echoed


    Zhixue, I was the one who invited them here, Fang Chen said as he and Yuan Zhuang made their way toward the guest room.


    Those words further fanned Fang Zhixues curiosity. Big brother, why did you invite them here?


    <em>Big brother?! Could this person be </em>


    Yuan Yu stared at Fang Chen in shock. She hadnt expected War God Fang to be so young and suave


    I have a request to ask of them. Fang Chen smiled. He turned to Yuan Zhuang and said, Bring your subordinate with us. Well head off now.


    Yuan Zhuang quickly gestured to Yuan Yu and said, Cou Yuan Yu, well be leaving now. Theres a case we need to investigate.


    Yuan Yu followed the two of them in a daze.


    Seeing that they were leaving without her, Fang Zhixue chased after Fang Chen, eximing, Big brother, where are you going? I want to tag along too!

 Chapter 34: Phantom Dragon Street

    Chapter 34: Phantom Dragon Street


    Be good. Im heading out to deal with something important, Fang Chen said.


    Big brother, we havent gone out together for many years now. I still remember how we used to sneak out together to buy candied hawthorns Fang Zhixue protested with tearful eyes.


    Yuan Zhuang and Yuan Yu awkwardly looked away.


    Ah <em>Now that I think about it, I havent been out with Zhixue for years. </em>Fang Chen eventually relented with a nod. All right, you may tag along, but youll have to listen to me. I have work to do.


    Hooray! Lets go! Fang Zhixues tears immediately evaporated. She grabbed Fang Chens arm and merrily skipped around as if she had picked up ten gold taels.


    Yuan Zhuang and Yuan Yu couldnt believe how fast her expression changed.


    My apologies for that, Fang Chen said.


    Of course not, of course not! Yuan Zhuang hurriedly waved his hand.


    <em>War God Fang is surprisingly courteous, </em>Yuan Yu thought.


    As soon as the four of them stepped out of the Fang Manor, they saw Xu Ge waiting outside for them with a carriage.


    Great Xias capital was divided into the inner city and the outer city, and the outer city consisted of thirty streets.


    Their destination was the outer citys Phantom Dragon Street. It was located near the suburbs, next to the east city gate, where Fang Canghai was now stationed.


    Young master, Ill have to ask you to bear with the poor conditions at Phantom Dragon Street. That area hasnt been peaceful recently. Why dont Yuan Yu and I head down to investigate while you remain on the carriage? Yuan Zhuang suggested.


    As they approached Phantom Dragon Street, the surrounding buildings became increasingly decrepit, forming a stark contrast to the inner citys prosperity. The civilians they met along the way wore tattered clothes, and their eyes looked zed.


    <em>And were still in the capital. What about the civilians outside the capital?</em> Fang Chen sighed.


    He had once sworn to change this, only to realize it was more difficult than he thought. It was impossible to pull it off by himself. Even so, he had never once thought of giving up!


    Im already here. Lets go down together, Fang Chen said with a smile. You dont have to worry about me. Do you take me to be a sheltered noble who has never seen dirt?


    Yuan Zhuang btedly remembered that he was in the presence of the War God who had torn countless enemies apart. From poor camping conditions to a shortage of military rations, he had been through more difficulties than most people did in their lifetime. How could he be intimidated by this?


    Young master, were here, Xu Ges voice echoed outside as the carriage stalled to a halt.


    Fang Chen brought Fang Zhixue down the carriage, and Yuan Zhuang and Yuan Yu followed them.


    Nearby civilians looked at them with curious eyes. It was rare for one to be dressed so dignified in Phantom Dragon Street. However, their eyes narrowed in wariness upon noticing Yuan Yus constable uniform, and they quickly averted their eyes and rushed off.


    Before them was a tattered house. An ajar door hung limply on its hinge, unable to be shut.


    Big brother, what are we doing here? Fang Zhixue asked.


    Lord Yuan is here to investigate a case. Were here to take a look, Fang Chen replied.


    Investigate a case?! Fang Zhixues eyes lit up in excitement.


    Listen to my instructions and dont move recklessly. Fang Chen knocked her head.


    He gestured to Yuan Zhuang to knock on the door. It would be rude of them to enter without the masters permission even though the door was open.


    Who is it? an old voice echoed, followed by a couple of coughs.


    Madam Wu! Its me, Yuan Zhuang! Yuan Zhuang shouted.


    Lord Yuan?! Quick, quick,e in! Pardon me not for getting up to wee you. My body hasnt been doing well recently. The old womans voice conspicuously became more agitated.


    The crowd entered the house. It was dark inside, and in its narrow space was a broken bed, a broken table, and a few broken chairs. The old woman lying on the broken bed was trying to get up with great difficulty.


    Yuan Zhuang quickly rushed forward to support her.


    The old woman grabbed Yuan Zhuangs arm and asked with a quivering voice, Lord Yuan, is there news about my son and my daughter?


    Her grayish-white eyes resembled Fang Chens. She was blind too.


    Fang Zhi felt a lump in her throat.


    Well Yuan Zhuang looked a little awkward. The old woman still didnt know that Supervisor Li Huafeng of the Court of Great Brilliance had already closed the case.


    Madam Wu, are you willing to report this case at the Court of Great Brilliance? Fang Chen suddenly asked.


    The old woman was taken aback. She had a lost look on her face as she said, How do I report the case when Im illiterate?


    I can have someone write the case down for you and deliver it to the Court of Great Brilliance, Fang Chen said.


    Yuan Zhuang hesitantly nced at Fang Chen. <em>It wont work. Supervisor Li Huafeng has already closed the case. Itll only draw his ire if we report it again.</em>


    The lord from the Court of Great Brilliance told me my son and daughter eloped after stealing the Vice Minister of Rites valuables? Who am I supposed to report? the old woman grumbled.


    Thats true. Fang Chen nodded. He looked around the room before turning to Yuan Zhuang. Lets go.


    Yuan Zhuang was startled. <em>Did wee all the way here just for this?</em>


    However, Fang Chen had already walked out, so he quickly entrusted the old woman with a silver tael and bade farewell to her before hurriedly following suit. Outside, he saw Fang Chen whispering something to Xu Ge, and thetter nodded before taking his leave.


    Yuan Yu discreetly tugged Yuan Zhuangs sleeves and asked, Cousin, why did wee here?


    Shush, Yuan Zhuang told her. He walked up to Fang Chen and asked with a suppressed tone, War God Fang, are we returning now?


    Didnt you notice something amiss? Fang Chen looked at the tattered house contemtively.


    Amiss? Whats amiss about this house? Yuan Zhuang asked.


    Big brother, that grandma is blind, right? Shes ill, and she doesnt have her children to take care of her. How is she going to survive? Fang Zhixue said worriedly.


    Fang Chen nodded. Indeed. Its a wonder how she survived thest two years.


    War God Fang?! Yuan Zhuang was taken aback.


    Did you notice? That old woman was clean despite being dressed in rags. Algae was growing on the door, a sign that no one had entered or left the house for a long time, Fang Chen said.


    Madam Wu is unwell, so she spends most of her time in bed Yuan Zhuang murmured.


    But someone has to deliver food to her, right? Her offspring arent by her side now. It would be hard for her to survive a winter without any rtives to look after her, Fang Chen pointed out.


    Yuan Zhuang was stunned. <em>Indeed, something is amiss now that I think about it.</em>


    Just then, a group of ferocious-looking people suddenly headed in their way. They revealed vicious smiles when they saw Fang Chens group, and they began marching over.


    What a beautifuldy! Hehehe! The leader of the group looked at Fang Zhixue andughed eerily.

 Chapter 35: Threat

    Chapter 35: Threat


    Fang Zhixues face darkened as she coldly red at the approaching ruffians.


    Miss, someone as beautiful as you should smile more. Come, give us a smile, the leader of the ruffians teased her.


    Yuan Zhuang was infuriated. He had been worried that such a thing might happen, but to think that they would actually bump into it. These people were courting death!


    You scamp! Shut your mouth right now! Yuan Zhuang bellowed.


    Oh? And who the hell are you? Cant you tell your Grandpa Lu is talking right now? the leader looked at Yuan Zhuang with increasingly sharp eyes.


    Yuan Zhuang was startled. <em>Does this fellow really not fear death? Even if they cant recognize War God Fang or me, a rectifier of the Court of Great Brilliance, they should at least recognize Yuan Yus constable uniform.</em>


    How brazen of you! Yuan Yu stepped forward with a livid face.


    Woah, a female constable! Hahaha! Bros, a female constable came to our Phantom Dragon Street. Whew, look at that physique and that face. She would have been a decent good if not for her tan.


    The ruffians werent intimidated by Yuan Yus constable uniform. On the contrary, theyughed even louder, and they made no attempt to conceal their lust and disdain.


    Yuan Yu was taken aback.


    This was her first day working as a constable, but she had already bumped into fearless fools who dared to look down on constables. <em>The ruffians of Phantom Dragon Street are getting over their heads!</em>


    Fang Chen coldly eyed the situation.


    The fearless fellow who proimed himself as Grandpa Lu red at Yuan Yu and sneered, Remember this, you inner city constables should steer clear of Phantom Dragon Street if you value your life. I, Grandpa Lu, will pluck off your legs if I ever see you here again!


    Yuan Zhuang finally understood what was going on. With a darkened face, he stepped forward and roared, Watch yourself! Im Rectifier Yuan Zhuang from the Court of Great Brilliance!


    <em>A rectifier from the Court of Great Brilliance? </em>Grandpa Lu was taken aback, but he soon roared inughter and said, Ah, so its a constable chief!


    Hisckeysughed in disdain too. In their view, the Court of Great Brilliances rectifiers were weak officials who acted like big shots while hiding behind their constables. There was nothing fearsome about them.


    Yuan Yu was infuriated. She drew her sword and roared, How dare you tease ady on the streets and insolently threaten a rectifier? Youre going back to the Court of Great Brilliance with me today!


    You? You overestimate yourself! Grandpa Lu sneered.


    He hurled his fist forth and unleashed a powerful burst of might that gushed forth like a white dragon. It crashed heavily into Yuan Yus de.


    Yuan Yu was taken aback. <em>Ki Explosion?</em>


    Yuan Zhuang was stunned as well. He hadnt expected the other party to be a Ki Explosion martial artist. <em>Theres someone of this caliber dwelling in Phantom Dragon Street?</em>


    Do you still want me to head to the Court of Great Brilliance with you? Grandpa Lu sneered.


    Fang Zhixue rolled up her sleeves to show the ruffians her might, but Fang Chen held her back.


    Fang Chen turned to Yuan Zhuang and said, Yuan Zhuang, I remember youre at early Ki Explosion as well. Someone shattered your subordinates de. Are you going to stand still and watch the situation?


    All of you areing to the Court of Great Brilliance with me today! Yuan Zhuangs eyes reddened wrathfully.


    His disposition suddenly changed; he was no longer the subservient fellow who cowered in front of Fang Chen. At this moment, he was a Ki Explosion martial artist!


    Take down the others. Ill deal with this Court of Great Brilliances rectifier. Grandpa Lu instructed hisckeys before rushing at Yuan Zhuang.


    The two of them exchanged blows, with each strike they unleashed being strong enough to pose a huge threat to the other party. The passers-by fled the scene and hid in the shadows, fearing that they would be caught in it.


    Grandpa Lusckeys snickered as they turned their eyes on Yuan Yu and Fang Zhixue.


    Just as they were about to make their moves, Xu Ge returned.


    Xu Ge didnt bother drawing his sword. With lightning speed, he struck each of them at the back of their necks to knock them out.


    Big brother, why didnt you let me make a move? This is a rare opportunity Fang Zhixue was dissatisfied.


    Im the one who would be scolded if our parents find out that you have crossed blows with these ruffians here, Fang Chen said with a smile.


    Yuan Yus eyes widened in astonishment. She didnt know Xu Ges background, but she could tell from his sharp and precise movements that he wasnt an ordinary coach.


    Young master, I have gotten to the bottom of it. The neighbors have all received money, Xu Ge walked over to Fang Chens side and reported with a suppressed voice.


    Bam!


    Yuan Zhuang was sent flying by Grandpa Lus fist, and he crashed in front of Fang Chen. He raised his head and saw Fang Chen gazing down on him, and he instinctively lowered his head in shame.


    You couldnt subdue him even though youre both at early Ki Explosion. Reflect on yourself. Fang Chen shook his head. Xu Ge, take him down.


    Yes, young master. Xu Ge began walking toward Grandpa Lu.


    Grandpa Lu was still feeling gleeful about his victory when he noticed hisckeys lying on the floor. That prompted him to raise his head and stare at Xu Ge. To his shock, he recognized thetter, and his eyes slowly widened. Windcloud Sword


    Bam!


    Xu Ge released a barrage of jabs at Grandpa Lus chest, sr plexus, and a few other vitals, stripping thetter of his ability to move.


    As expected of Windcloud Sword Yuan Zhuang was filled with envy.


    As a Court of Great Brilliances rectifier, he was aware of Xu Ges background.


    Bring them with us. Well have another chat with Madam Wu. Fang Chen smiled before making his way back into the tattered house.


    Grandpa Lu and hisckeysy paralyzed on the ground, but their arrogance didnt fade. Despite having recognized Xu Ge, Grandpa Lu uttered threatening words, Windcloud Sword, you dont want to get involved in this. You might be at pinnacle Ki Explosion, but that doesnt mean you can run rampant in Great Xias capital.


    Xu Ge scoffed. <em>You dont even recognize the one who can run rampant, and you still dare to utter such a threat.</em>


    Windcloud Sword? One of the top ten pinnacle Ki Explosion martial artists of our Great Xias capital, Windcloud Sword? Yuan Yu was bbergasted, but on second thought, it made sense for an expert of such a caliber to serve War God Fang.


    Is it Lord Yuan? Why is it so noisy outside? Madam Wus hoarse voice echoed from inside.


    Xu Ge, tell me what you gathered just now, Fang Chen said.


    Xu Ge nced in the house as he said, The Wu siblings lost their parents at a young age.


    What?! Yuan Zhuang was stunned.


    Inside the house, Madam Wu fell silent too.


    Drag her out, Fang Chen instructed.


    Xu Ge nodded. He entered the house and dragged the immobilized Madam Wu out. Her hair was unkempt, and she was in tears. What are you doing? What are you doing?!

 Chapter 36: Valiant Defenders

    Chapter 36: Valiant Defenders


    Lord Yuan, why are you oppressing a blind old woman like me? What have I done wrong?! Madam Wu continued to struggle.


    Fang Chen sneered. A blind person wouldnt keep looking around. Xu Ge, pluck out whatever is in her eyes.


    Yes, young master.


    The grinning Xu Ge fumbled around Madam Wus eyes before pulling out two white, murky pieces. Beneath those white, murky pieces were a pair of brilliant eyes that clearly didnt belong to a blind person.


    Yuan Yu and Fang Zhixue were stumped.


    Yuan Zhuangs expression stiffened. His face reddened in shame, as he couldnt believe that a rectifier like him had been taken for a fool!


    Young master, its skin shaved from a fishs eye. Its amon street trick, Xu Ge mocked.


    Madam Wus expression tensed up. She vigntly eyed her surroundings as she searched for an opportunity to slip away from Xu Ge. Needless to say, she looked nowhere as sickly as she did earlier.


    Of course, it was no easy feat to escape from the hands of a pinnacle Ki Explosion martial artist.


    Xu Ge grabbed Madam Wu by her neck and asked, Youll be here until the young master permits you to leave. Try to escape, and Ill break your leg.


    Tell me where did the missing siblings go, Fang Chen calmly asked.


    Many emotions flickered across Madam Wus face. In the end, she sheepishly replied, I dont know. I only upied this house because it was empty.


    Speak the truth, Fang Chen said. It has been a long time since anyone stayed here. Why did you leave this house empty if youre looking for a ce to stay?


    Madam Wu hadnt expected Fang Chen to see through that too. Her face continued to flicker in uncertainty.


    Lie again, and Ill drag you to the Court of Great Brilliance. By then, Ill make sure to spit out everything that you know, Yuan Zhuang sneered.


    Lord Yuan, Ill speak the truth! Seeing how things were getting serious, Madam Wu dared not to hide the truth and quickly exined the matter.


    She was a conman. She would look for empty houses, pretend to be the rtive, and find a chance to sell them out. A few years back, she learned that this house was empty, so she bribed the neighbors and upied the house under the pretext of being the siblings blind mother.


    Youre wasting my time. Fang Chen was starting to lose his patience. You dont have to speak if you dont want to. Take her with us.


    Wait, wait! Ill speak, Ill speak! Madam Wu anxiously waved her hand. Theres more to this matter. Someone approached me, telling me theres no one residing in the house and I should upy it. However, he had a requesthe wanted me to pretend to be the siblings mother in front of the officials.


    Yuan Zhuangs face darkened. This meant there was more to the siblings disappearances, or else the person behind this wouldnt have gone through so much trouble to deter them.


    Whos that person? Fang Chen asked.


    I dont know. I really dont know! I had no choice but to do his bidding. He said hed kill me if I dont follow his orders. Im just a conman; Id die if I go against that kind of people! Madam Wu cried. Milord, please have mercy and let me off this once. Ill never do it again!


    Fang Chen turned his gaze to Grandpa Lu and asked, What about you? Who got you here?


    Who are you? Grandpa Lu red at Fang Chen. You shouldnt get involved in this if you know whats better for you. My backing is not someone you can trifle with!


    Audacious! How dare a Court of Great Brilliances rectifier overstep his boundary? Is it not enough for you to capture criminals in the inner city that you want to stick a foot into the outer citys business too? a middle-aged man suddenly arrived with a group of people and began bellowing.


    Grandpa Lus eyes lit up. Lord Xu, Im here!


    Fang Chen looked at the people who had just arrived.


    There people wore red uniforms and tall headgears, and they carried a sword on their waists. There was only one group of people who dressed like that in Great Xias capitalthe Valiant Defenders.


    The Valiant Defenders was a post that the incumbent emperor created just ten years ago. Theyprised elites picked from the military and sects, and their members were deployed all over Great Xia.


    The Valiant Defenders had an independentmand chain. They were only ountable to their superior, so they didnt have to obey high-ranking officials from the other departments. This had led to them being extremely domineering and unreasonable.


    Due to that, very few people dared to offend the Valiant Defenders.


    There were two barracks for the Valiant Defenders in Great Xias capitalone in the inner city, and one in the outer city.


    This was Great Xias capital, after all, so the Valiant Defenders in the inner city kept a low profile and only did what was expected of them. It was rare for them to interfere with the affairs of the other departments.


    It was a different story for the outer city though. The Valiant Defenders in the outer city patrolled the streets all day long and interfered in everything. Their words carried more weight than anyone else!


    So its Lord Xu, Yuan Zhuang sped his fist and greeted with a perfunctory smile.


    The other party coldly eyed Yuan Zhuang. Yuan Zhuang, I remember telling you a few years back that you have to inform our barracks if you have something to do in the outer city. I heard you brought someone here to beat up innocent civilians. Is this true?


    Innocent civilians? Are you talking about these people? Yuan Zhuang pointed at Grandpa Lu on the ground. If hes an innocent civilian, Id be a saint.


    Hmph, I wont waste my breath on you. Well get to the bottom of this in the barracks. Men, apprehend them! Lord Xu said with a grand wave of his hand.


    The Valiant Defenders charged forward and surrounded them.


    Seeing this, Xu Ge stepped in front of Fang Chen and coldly eyed the Valiant Defenders. My young master isnt going anywhere.


    Audacious!


    The Valiant Defenders drew their swords and coldly eyed Xu Ge. Murderous intent suffused this little house.


    Lord Xu, be careful! This man is Windcloud Sword Xu Ge. I was subdued by him in a moment of carelessness, Grandpa Lu eximed.


    Windcloud Sword Xu Ge? Lord Xu frowned. A wandering pugilist like you dares to kick up a fuss in the capital? Do you think that you can oppose the Valiant Defenders just because youre a pinnacle Ki Explosion martial artist?


    Lord Xu, youre a Valiant Defenders centurion, right? Fang Chen nced at Lord Xus waist token and asked.


    Lord Xu eyed Fang Chen. For some reason, he found thetter oddly familiar.


    A Valiant Defenders centurion is of the same rank as a Court of Great Brilliances rectifier, but you show no respect for your peer. The first thing you want to do upon arriving at the scene is to arrest your peer. Arent you Valiant Defenders being too domineering? Fang Chen shook his head.


    You have no right to criticize the Valiant Defenders! Lord Xu sneered. Which n are you from? Stay in the inner city if you have nothing better to do!


    Lord Xu, it looks like you have stayed in the outer city for too long if you dont even recognize War God Fang! Im really worried for you if your eyes are this bad, Yuan Zhuang remarked with a sigh.


    <em>War God Fang?!</em>


    Lord Xu, as well as Grandpa Lu and hisckeys, trembled in horror. All of them reflexively turned to Fang Chen with eyes of disbelief. Madam Wu, whom Xu Ge had been holding up from the start to the end, nearly copsed on the ground.

 Chapter 37: Following the Trail

    Chapter 37: Following the Trail


    Big brother, I heard from our father that the Valiant Defenders were impeached by the imperial court because they were too domineering, and they lost their enforcement power in the inner city as a result. From the looks of it now, they are not just domineering but corrupt too! Fang Zhixue eximed.


    <em>Big brother? </em>Grandpa Lu and the others stared at Fang Zhixue in a daze before their bodies began trembling non-stop. <em>The person we teased just now is War God Fangs little sister?</em>


    W-War God Fang, please pardon me for failing to recognize you! Lord Xu immediately sped his fist and apologized. <em>No wonder he looks so familiar! He is War God Fang, the person behind the purging of the Greenpine martial artists in the capital not long ago! </em>


    Even the Valiant War Guards dared not mess with the Greenpine martial artists, but War God Fang didnt hesitate to massacre all of them. This matter had be the mostmon topic to talk about in the barracks.


    Centurion Xu, Grandpa Lu is your man? Fang Chen asked.


    Centurion Xus heart skipped a beat. He quickly waved his hand and replied, War God Fang, you have misunderstood. I do know him, but we arent close.


    <em>Not close?!</em> Grandpa Lu was rendered speechless. <em>We drank todayst night, but youre saying we arent close today?</em>


    Do you know why Im here today? Fang Chen asked.


    He sharply eyed Centurion Xu as he spoke, as if trying to figure out how involved thetter was in this matter. Yuan Zhuang also suspected that Centurion Xu was involved in this, prompting him to stare at thetter unblinkingly.


    Im afraid not Confusion shed across Centurion Xus eyes.


    Tell him, Lord Yuan, Fang Chen said.


    Yuan Zhuang slowly recounted the matter. By the time he was halfway through, Centurion Xus face had already turned pale as he sensed that he had gotten dragged into something huge.


    Shortly after I arrived here, this Grandpa Lu came with hisckeys and teased my little sister. Momentster, you arrived with your men. Centurion Xu, may I ask how you are rted to the siblings who went missing here? Fang Chen asked.


    Centurion Xu was flustered. He hurriedly replied with a suppressed voice, War God Fang, I rushed here because I heard theres a fight here. I dont know anything else.


    Oh. Youre saying you coincidentally got involved in this matter. Very well. This Grandpa Lu teased my little sister and threatened the Court of Great Brilliances constables to nevere to Phantom Dragon Street, or theyll have their legs crippled. How do you intend to deal with this? Fang Chen asked.


    War God Fang, I was foolish to have crossed you! Please spare me this once! Grandpa Lu kneeled on the floor and eximed with a quivering voice.


    Centurion Xu nced at Grandpa Lu, and a vicious glint shed across his eyes. He turned to Fang Chen and said, Ill bring him to the barracks and thoroughly question him. Ill make sure to offer you a satisfactory exnation.


    Youre Grandpa Lu, right? Fang Chen turned his attention to Grandpa Lu.


    Please, War God Fang, call me Lil Lu instead. Grandpa Lu shuddered.


    Who ordered you to mess with us and threaten the Court of Great Brilliances constables? Fang Chen asked with a smile. Give me a name.


    Grandpa Lu fell silent. Secondster, he replied with a hushed tone, Someone paid me to keep an eye on Phantom Dragon Street and threaten anyone whoes to this house.


    He described the other partys appearance, but he stopped short of identifying the person.


    Madam Wu heard his words and hurriedly added, Milords, thats the person who paid me too.


    <em>The same person, huh? </em>Fang Chen chuckled. You didnt give me a name. I dont think I can just let this matter slip. Lord Yuan, bring them back to the Court of Great Brilliance and thoroughly interrogate them. Dig up the other crimes they hadmitted and deal with them ordingly.


    Yes! Yuan Zhuang perked up before roaring at the crowd. All of you, get up right now!


    Ill be leaving now. Centurion Xu, you dont have to see me off, Fang Chen said with a smile before taking his leave.


    Yuan Zhuang shot a gleeful look at Centurion Xu before taking his leave too. Centurion Xu, Ill be taking these people back with me to the Court of Great Brilliance to lessen your workload.


    Have a safe journey, Lord Yuan, Centurion Xu said with a strained smile.


    He waited for Fang Chens group to leave before his face turned livid. He noticed that his subordinates were gossiping about Fang Chen, and his eyebrows shot up and he harrumphed. The lot of you are usually loud and rowdy, but why didnt you say a word earlier?


    Milord, thats War God Fang! I wouldnt dare run my mouth before him. I mean, he even burned down Greenpine Superior Dojo! a Valiant Defender said spiritedly. That was so satisfying!


    Right? It was exhrating to see the Greenpine martial artists suffering their karma!


    I was once lucky to have been dispatched to War God Fangs military, but I waster transferred over to the Valiant Defenders. Otherwise, I might have been able to follow him to the Three Realms Mountain five years ago.


    Then you might have been buried there too, one of his colleagues teased.


    Centurion Xus expression turned heavy. He didnt expect to meet Fang Chen in Phantom Dragon Street. What was even terrifying was that he had already offended the War God due to Grandpa Lu.


    This left him uneasy. He felt that something was amiss. Thus, he returned to the barracks with his subordinates and reported this matter upward.


    The chiliarch who received Centurion Xus report nodded before dismissing thetter.


    Not longter, the chiliarch changed his attire and snuck into the inner city. He eventually arrived before an extravagant residence.


    In the Fang Manor, Fang Chen didnt have to wait too long before Tie Ma appeared and whispered into his ear, Young master, the outer citys Chiliarch Zhang Shuzhou has entered the Vice Minister of Rites manor.


    Understood. Fang Chen nodded.


    He waited for Tie Ma to back down before drawing out his soul and making his way over to the Vice Minister of Rites manor.


    In the guest room, Fang Chen saw Chiliarch Zhang Shuzhou and Vice Minister of Rites Qin Dong.


    Lord Qin, you didnt tell me that the Fang n would get involved in this matter. Please take back your money and never look for me again, Zhang Shuzhou coldly said as he took out two banknotes and ced them on the table.


    The banknotes were in a denomination of a thousand, which meant that they totalled up to two thousand taels. This wasnt a small sum of money.


    Qin Dong turned pale. How did War God Fang get involved in this matter?! What does he have to do with this?


    I dont know either. It was bad enough that your missing maid drew the attention of the Court of Great Brilliance in the first ce, and now, yearster, it caught the attention of that person from the Fang n. Lord Qin, I dont know what youre up to, but I dont want to get involved in it.


    After speaking his piece, Zhang Shuzhou stood up and took his leave.


    Qin Dong fell in a daze. Horror could be seen reflected in his eyes.


    To think a Vice Minister like you would lose his bearings as soon as you hear that Fang Chen is involved in this matter. Howughable! A cold harrumph echoed, as an old woman stepped out from a screen partition and looked at Qin Dong in contempt.


    Dont you know what kind of person Fang Chen is? Things will get troublesome now that his suspicion has been piqued. You were the one who did it, so you should be the one to resolve this matter! Qin Dong roared at the old woman.


    <em>A cultivator It looks like there are a handful of Blood Spirit Cultists in the capital.</em> Fang Chen looked at the old woman with a grim expression.

 Chapter 38: Traveling Out of Country

    Chapter 38: Traveling Out of Country


    The old woman had an aura simr to that of the Blood Spirit Cultist who died in the Fang n. She was likely at fourth stage Ki Refinement.


    That should have beenparable to a Human Profound fourth stage Ki Manifestation martial artist, but the means of a cultivator were far superior to those of martial artists. It would likely take at least an Earth Profound martial artist to rival her.


    Within a short period of time, Fang Chen had already found two cultivators in Great Xias capital. He had no idea whether there would be more.


    What are you afraid of? Fang Chen might have regained his martial cultivation, but hes no more than a martial artist. Not in his wildest imagination would he think that there are people like me in this world, the old woman sneered in disdain.


    Vice Minister Qin, youll rise through the ranks as long as you stand with us. Dont make a big fuss over minor matters. Daoist Xue has gone after Celestial Xiao. Once news about her death reaches Greenpine, the Third Prince will be a goner. By then, Greenpine willunch a full-blown invasion on Great Xia, giving us more than enough blood essence to deliver to the higher-ups. Two birds in one stone!


    Those words brought a glint to Fang Chens eyes.


    <em>Based on what she said, they still have superiors on top of them, and their goal foring to Great Xia is to gather a huge amount of human blood essence. Could there be more nobles or officials who are colluding with the Blood Spirit Cult other than Vice Minister Qin?</em>


    Fang Chen coldly eyed the old woman. <em>Ill first root the colluders out before eradicating the Blood Spirit Cultists one by one!</em>


    Its not that I want to kick up a fuss, but not long ago I saw Fang Chen killing a Greenpine Ki Control martial artist with a single palm strike in the imperial pce! Vice Minister Qins voice quivered. There was a strike of lightning, and a man was reduced to cinders. What power is that?!


    Regardless, its the insignificant means of a martial artist. How can mere inner kipete with spirit ki? the old woman scoffed.


    She gathered her spirit ki in her hand and conjured a fireball out of thin air. The surrounding temperature immediately shot up.


    Vice Minister Qin jolted backward in shock.


    Its not as if you have never seen me burning a human to crisp with my fireball art. Its capable of even melting metal, the old woman said with a gleeful smile.


    Daoist arts? Fang Chens eyes gleamed.


    He could sense the terrifying prowess harnessed inside the fireball. It was on par with the Purple Lightning Talismans he was creating at the moment. It was a pity Daoist Cloudcranes Three Thousand Dao Initiate Manual only contained details about the Ki Refinement cultivation method and the four talismans. There was no daoist arts in it to be learned.


    <em>Cultivators are terrifying indeed.</em>


    The daoist he had killed in the Fang Manor appeared to only be well-verse in talismans, as the other party hadnt cast any daoist arts. There were also no daoist manuals on him either.


    Vice Minister Qin, do you think my fireball can kill Fang Chen? the old woman asked with a smirk.


    Definitely! Qin Dong nodded profusely as his fear faded away.


    The old woman retracted her daoist art. You dont have to be afraid of Fang Chen. Were only leaving him around to muddy the waters. Ill be heading to Dragonback Ler on. Itll be a seven day trip to and fro. You should refrain from dealing with Fang Chen for the time being.


    Qin Dong hesitantly spoke up, Goldflower Granny, I have been loyal for the past eight years, doing everything I can to support you. When can I start cultivating under your tutge If I could learn some means to protect myself, I wouldnt have been so intimidated by Fang Chen.


    A Blood Spirit Divine Pill requires a hundred thousand portions of human blood essence. My mission is to offer ten Blood Spirit Divine Pills to the superiors. When I aplish the mission, someone will bestow you with a cultivation method, and youll be able to be like me, the old woman said with a cackle before leaving the room.


    A hundred thousand portions of human blood essence for a single Blood Spirit Divine Pill. Six pills were gathered from the battle at the Three Realms Mountain, so another four more to go Qin Dong murmured.


    Fang Chensplexion turned awful upon hearing those words.


    It suddenly dawned on him that there was a huge problem regarding the battle at the Three Realms Mountain. The death of the 600,000 soldiers wasnt just because of hiscency. The Blood Spirit Cult definitely yed an important role here, and he was kept in the dark like a fool.


    Had he not seen the fairy in the zing sun, gained the ability to astral project, and met Daoist Cloudcrane who imparted him with a cultivation method, perhaps he would still be seeing things on a superficial level, never able to approach the truth.


    The consequences would have been dire!


    While it looks as if Im in the open and the enemies are in the dark, our roles are reversed. They only know I have regained my martial cultivation. However, they dont know Im actually an immortal cultivator; they dont know about the Purple Lightning Talisman; and they dont know that Daoist Xue, whos chasing Celestial Xiao, is dead. Fang Chen analyzed his situation.


    These were the advantages he had over his enemies. He had to carefully consider how he could use them to widen his lead.


    <em>Dragonback Lane might just be an opportunity. </em>


    Fang Chen slowly followed the old woman from the sky. It was only when he confirmed she was heading toward the eastern city gate did his soul finally return to his body.


    Soon, an inconspicuous carriage drove out of the Fang Manor.


    Keep heading eastward, Fang Chen ordered from the carriage.


    Tie Ma, who was driving the carriage, nodded. He didnt know where Fang Chen was headed to, but he would obediently carry out his instructions.


    Old Huang, this carriage is a bit small. Make do with it. Fang Chen smiled at Huang Sihai.


    Huang Sihais massive body filled up most of the space inside the carriage, making him appear awfully awkward. However, he paid no mind to it and grinned. Young master, Im delighted to be able to apany you on a journey.


    Heres a Strength Talisman, a Flitting Talisman, and a Protection Talisman. If you find yourself in trouble, infuse your inner ki into the talismans and activate them, Fang Chen instructed.


    With that, he drew out his soul once more.


    Around five kilometers ahead of the carriage, the old woman flitted eastward at a paceparable to a steed. Given the speed she was going, she could cover at least eight hundred kilometers in a day.


    A fourth stage Ki Manifestation martial artist could do the same too, but they wouldnt be as rxed as her. This was the difference between spirit ki and inner ki; spirit ki was objectively superior to inner ki.


    Head southwest.


    Up ahead, take the left road.


    Cross the river.


    Every now and then, Fang Chen would open his eyes and give some directions to Tie Ma.


    Three days passed in a sh.


    Stop the carriage, Fang Chen instructed.


    Tie Ma slowed the carriage to a halt. They were in the midst of wilderness; there was nothing in the area at all.


    Young master, we have traveled out of Great Xia Tie Ma eyed his surroundings in vignce.


    I know, Fang Chen replied. He popped his head out of the carriage, passed a mask to Tie Ma, pointed in a direction, and said, Wear this and head in that direction. Later on, hand this over to the guard.


    He passed a ki stone to Tie Ma.

 Chapter 39: Dragonback Lane

    Chapter 39: Dragonback Lane


    The carriage traveled across a small hill.


    At this point, it felt like they had been transported to another world, as a bustling city appeared before their eyes even though they were in the middle of a remote mountain valley.


    A martial artist?


    There were several guards at the entrance of the mountain valley. Upon seeing Tie Ma, they turned their sight toward the carriage and asked, Do you have the Dragonback Token?


    Tie Ma shed the Dragonback Token to the guards before tossing a low-grade ki stone over.


    The guards nodded. You may enter.


    This was the Dragonback Lane, a ce of gathering for cultivators. Fang Chen had already explored this area with his soul, and there were no cultivators here who could see his soul like Daoist Cloudcrane did.


    The strongest cultivator here was only at Ki Refinement.


    Dragonback Lane was huge, at the scale of a small town. Not everyone here was a cultivator. There were martial artists like Tie Ma too, but practically all of them wereckeys of a cultivator.


    Fang Chen initially thought that this ce was rted to the Blood Spirit Cult, but when he followed the old woman into Dragonback Lane with his soul, he quickly learned that this was a trading hub.


    The old woman hade here to purchase some resources she required for her cultivation.


    Wait for me on the carriage, Fang Chen instructed the two of them.


    He put on a mask, got off the carriage, and began exploring Dragonback Lane. However, he made sure to keep the old woman within his line of sight.


    Most of the cultivators here were wearing masks. The old woman had also altered her appearance before entering this ce. This suggested that Dragonback Lane might be awless ce, so cultivators needed to exercise caution by being discreet.


    Selling three Strength Talismans for 6 low-grade ki stones. No haggling.


    Southfire Sword, four daosoul imprint! You can unleash a devastating inferno by imbuing your spirit ki into it. Its up for sale for 80 low-grade ki stones. Open for haggling.


    Superior-grade Ki Condensation Pills. One for 5 low-grade ki stones, twelve for 55 low-grade ki stones.


    Vendors could be heard advertising their products along the street. These vendors were of lower cultivation, with the majority of them being at first stage or second stage Ki Refinement.


    Other than these small vendors, there were also a few more proper-looking stores. The items they sold were much more exorbitant, and the cultivators stationed at the store were stronger.


    Fang Chen stopped in front of a vendor selling talismans.


    Not too far away, the old woman was buying Ki Condensation Pills. She was buying five of them and was haggling on the price.


    Brother, your Strength Talisman is made out of ordinary cinnabar and talisman paper, right? That shows in the quality. Its inferior-grade at most. If you ask me, three of them are only worth 4 low-grade ki stones, someone haggled with the vendor.


    The vendor rolled his eyes and scoffed, Do you know how taxing drawing talismans is? Its difficult to even finish one in half a month, and a lot of spirit ki is depleted in the process. This is already my lowest price. Head elsewhere if you want to haggle!


    <em>Its difficult to finish one in half a month? </em>Fang Chen looked at the vendor. Judging from thetters aura, he should be at second stage Ki Refinement too. <em>Is talisman drawing that difficult?</em>


    He thought that the vendor was making a mountain out of a molehill, but the haggler hesitated before eventually forking out 6 low-grade ki stones to buy the talismans.


    This Strength Talismans are easier to draw than Flitting Talismans and Protection Talismans. If I spend the day doing nothing but drawing Strength Talismans, I could do forty to fifty of them. Fang Chen frowned.


    Going by that, it would mean he could make a killing just by selling talismans. That moved him. He had already spotted quite a few artifacts simr to Daoist Xues Soul Suppressing Bell, and he was interested in them.


    Old woman, are you buying it or not? Get lost if you arent going to buy. I have already stated the individual price of these Ki Condensation Pills, and that is non-negotiable! You should at least go and ask around who I am, an angry bellow echoed.


    Fang Chen turned over and saw the vendor shoving his finger at the old woman and berating her. The old womans face turned livid, but she didnt act up and instead obediently took out her ki stones to purchase the Ki Condensation Pills.


    It looks like theres politics in the world of cultivation too. Despite being at fourth stage Ki Refinement, that old woman doesnt dare to blow her top at a second stage Ki Refinement cultivator. Fang Chen took note of the situation.


    This was good news, as it indicated that the Blood Spirit Cult was not unrivaled in the region. However, it was also possible that the old woman had a lower position in the cult and dared not to kick up a fuss.


    The old woman didnt immediately leave the area after purchasing the Ki Condensation Pills. Instead, she found an empty spot and set up her own store. Sheid out a few spirit herbs and special materials.


    Fang Chen withdrew his gaze from the old woman. <em>Now that Im at Dragonback Lane, I should make the best out of what I can here. </em>He first spent an hour touring the ce so as to gain a deeper understanding of the prices here.


    Dragonback Lane was reminiscent of an antique market.


    There were a few people looking to pull off a one-time scams, evident from their extraordinarily high prices. Those were targeted at those who didnt recognize their goods. However, there were also some who honestly did business.


    Earlier, there was a man selling Southfire Sword, iming it had four daosoul imprints. That meant that it was an artifact for fourth stage Ki Refinement cultivators, so its prowess ought to correspond to that.


    A cultivator bought the sword, only to find two of the four daosoul imprints iplete. Due to that, the sword was onlyparable to a three daosoul imprint artifact. In other words, he had been scammed.


    The vendor had already escaped by then, but the cultivator who bought the sword still angrily charged out of Dragonback Lane to search for him.


    Fang Chen suddenly halted his footstep before a store selling something rted to talismans. On disy were ten brushes, quite a bit of cinnabar, and huge stacks of talisman papers. These items were emanating spirit ki, a sign that they werent ordinary materials.


    Brother, do you fancy talisman drawing? Youre in the right ce! My brushes are made out of the finest ear hair of powerful monsters. As for my cinnabar, its evident from their rich spirit ki that they have been buried for a long time before being harvested in a spirit mine. Last but not least, my talisman papers are made out of a thousand-year-old ancient tree. Any talismans you make from them are guaranteed to be of superior-grade! the vendor warmly hosted Fang Chen.


    How do you sell them? Fang Chen asked.


    The vendor assessed Fang Chens clothes and aura before replying, Dont worry, they are cheap! Fifty grams of cinnabar for one ki stone. A hundred talismans for one ki stone. As for the brushes, may I know which one youre interested in? Their prices differ depending on their quality.


    Fang Chen picked out the brush with the richest spirit ki and asked, How much does this cost?


    You have good eyes, brother! This brush is incredible


    Tell me the price, Fang Chen interjected.


    10 low-grade ki stones! the vendor said.


    Its too expensive, Fang Chen left those words before taking his leave.


    <em>10 low-grade ki stones? Why dont you rob someone instead? Thats enough to buy a one daosoul imprint artifact. Your brush might be rich in spirit ki, it cantpare to an artifact. </em>

 Chapter 40: Thievery

    Chapter 40: Thievery


    Seeing that Fang Chen wasnt falling for his scam, the vendor quickly rose up and eximed, Wait, brother! The prices are negotiable.


    Fang Chen ignored the vendor. He disliked dealing with unconscientious merchants, not to mention there was nock of vendors selling cinnabar, talisman papers, and brush anyway.


    Soon, Fang Chen arrived in the vicinity of the old woman and sat down. He took out ten Strength Talismans, Flitting Talismans, and Protection Talismans, andid them out.


    The old woman was not seeing a lot of customers at her store. Shock flickered across her eyes when she saw the talismansid out before Fang Chen, and she remarked, It must have taken a lot of time to draw those talismans!


    It took me a year to collect them, Fang Chen replied with a nod.


    A year? Thats a waste of time. You could have spent it on furthering your cultivation instead. The old woman shook her head, but her gaze remained fixated on the talismans. There was a hint of greed in her eyes.


    Those talismans were worth a considerable sum,parable to the value of a three daosoul imprint artifact.


    It didnt take long for customers toe looking around his store.


    He had set his prices to 2 low-grade ki stones per talisman. It was more difficult to draw the Flitting Talisman and Protection Talisman, but the market price for talismans of his quality was around there.


    Some of them shook their heads and left after enquiring about the prices, seemingly short on money.


    Some of them didnt hesitate to buy multiple talismans in a single breath.


    In less than half a day, Fang Chen sold all of the talismans in front of him. Clearly, talismans were a popr consumable for cultivators.


    <em>The Purple Lightning Talisman is probably worth several times more</em>, Fang Chen thought.


    However, he didnt see anyone selling Purple Lightning Talismans in this market, which showed just how rare and valuable they were. Out of prudence, it would be best for him not to sell them, lest he catch unwanted attention.


    In contrast, the old womans business was not doing well. She had only earned three low-grade ki stones in half a days time, but she had spent 25 low-grade ki stones earlier. Seeing how well Fang Chens business did only further stoked her greed.


    Time to pack up. Fang Chen shed a smile at the old woman as he got up and took his leave.


    The old woman looked at her poor business and empty pockets before ncing at Fang Chen. Slowly, her eyes turned cold.


    Fang Chen didnt leave straight away. He strolled around Dragonback Lane and bought a brush, some cinnabar, and a few stacks of talisman papers. All in all, he spent 5 low-grade ki stones.


    He did a rough count and confirmed that he had 68 low-grade ki stones with him. That made him one of the wealthier cultivators here.


    Ten Bone Tempering Pills for just one low-grade ki stone! These pills might be cheap, but they are rare goods! Make sure not to miss this opportunity! a vendor shouted.


    A passer-by nced over andughed. Well, its indeed rare toe by Bone Tempering Pills. What kind of alchemist forges Bone Tempering Pills? That thing does nothing other than to reinforce ones muscles and bones. Its useful to martial artists, but cultivators like us dont need it.


    It was rare for cultivators to engage in close-quarterbat with others, and spirit ki had the effect of reinforcing ones muscles and bones. Due to that, Bone Tempering Pills were of little use to cultivators.


    Cultivators wouldnt have spared it a nce even if it was twenty Bone Tempering Pills for one low-grade ki stone instead of ten, unless they were buying it for their subordinates. But again, cultivators saw martial artists as mere menial servants. They didnt need martial artists to deal with enemies, so they were only good for chores.


    Due to that, there were hardly any buyers for the Bone Tempering Pills. Ki stones were valuable, after all. How could they squander it on someone useless?


    Brother, how many Bone Tempering Pills do you have? Fang Chen casually asked.


    Not many. Are you interested?


    The vendor looked up and saw Fang Chen didnt have any martial artists with him. That brought a frown to his face, as he thought Fang Chen was another time waster.


    Yes, I have a few martial artists in my cavern, so this would make a good reward for them, Fang Chen replied.


    <em>Cavern?</em>


    A few people in the surroundings were stunned. Cultivators who had caverns tended to be from exceptional backgrounds. The old woman, who had been following Fang Chen from a distance, became hesitant.


    There is no better reward than this for a martial artist! Its a low-grade ki stone for ten Bone Tempering Pills, and I have a hundred of them. Do you want it all? The vendors eyes lit up.


    He had bought all of his Bone Tempering Pills for 5 low-grade ki stones. If he could sell all of it at the current rate, he would have earned 5 low-grade ki stones!


    I dont need that many. Fang Chen frowned.


    Ill offer you a discount. You can have my Bone Tempering Pills for just 9 low-grade ki stones, the vendor quickly offered. He didnt want to lose this rare customer.


    Ill take it all for 8 lot-grade ki stones though I think I only need ten Bone Tempering Pills, Fang Chen murmured.


    Is that fellow dumb? Why is he buying so many Bone Tempering Pills for his martial artists? Isnt it better for him to use them for his cultivation instead?


    He could have spent that money on a one daosoul imprint artifact instead


    Such murmurs could be heard from the crowd.


    The vendor hesitated before he clenched his jaws and said, Fine, Ill make a loss here to make a friend! Brother, Ill sell all my Bone Tempering Pills to you for 8 low-grade ki stones!


    He was worried Fang Chen would only buy ten Bone Tempering Pills, and he would end up with a stockpile that he couldnt sell. He would rather make a bit less profit instead. It was not as if he spent a lot of time making this trade anyway.


    The trade concluded on a happy note.


    After purchasing a hundred Bone Tempering Pills, Fang Chen turned around and left. Such pills were indeed useless for cultivators, but they were invaluable for martial artists.


    Most cultivators wouldnt have been willing to spend their ki stones on a martial artist, but it was different for Fang Chen. Tie Ma and the others were more important to him than mere ki stones.


    Fang Chen returned to his carriage and instructed, Well return to the capital.


    Tie Ma nodded before driving the carriage away.


    Fang Chen drew out his soul. From the sky, he spotted the old woman and three other cultivators following his carriage.


    The old woman was at fourth stage Ki Refinement, whereas of the other three cultivators, one was at third stage Ki Refinement and the other two were at second stage Ki Refinement. Those three cultivators were a group, and they clearly harbored the same intention as the old woman.


    The old woman and the three cultivators were aware of each others existence, but they didnt make contact with each other.


    After the carriage traveled 150 kilometers away, the old woman and three cultivators flitted forth to encircle them.


    Who are you? Why are you blocking our young masters path? The masked Tie Ma grimly eyed the figures in front of him. Fang Chen had instructed him to address him as young master lest they spark other peoples suspicion.


    Im not a greedy one. Give me 40 low-grade ki stones, and Ill leave right away, the old woman said with a vile smile.


    Its you? Fang Chen pried open the curtains and revealed a shock expression. Granny, you wish to borrow 40 low-grade ki stones from me?


    Im taking them from you, not borrowing, the old woman replied with a cackle.


    As for us, we just need 20 low-grade ki stones, the three masked cultivators demanded.


    Fang Chen nodded in realization. So youre here to rob me.

 Chapter 41: How Are You Different From Them?

    Chapter 41: How Are You Different From Them?


    You dont seem toe out often. You must have quite a few people at home? the old woman asked.


    Thats right! My father is a sixth stage Ki Refinement cultivator. You should think twice about your actions, Fang Chen sneered.


    Realization dawned on the robbers. <em>Thats why this fellow has so many talismans to sell. He must have stolen from his family! Judging from his mannerisms, hes obviously a wastrel.</em>


    As for him having a sixth stage Ki Refinement father


    They would have to put on a respectful attitude if they encountered an expert of such caliber, but it was not as if the other party was here today. They were not worried about the other partying after them, since it was unlikely he would ever figure out who killed his profligate son.


    The old woman heaved a sigh of relief. <em>Its just a sixth stage Ki Refinement cultivator. Theres nothing to fear. </em>The corners of her lips crept up as she said, Hand your ki stones over, and well allow you to leave. Dont lose your life over worldly possessions.


    Tie Ma, Old Huang, you deal with those three fellows behind, Fang Chen instructed.


    Yes, young master.


    Without any hesitation, the two of them rushed out of the carriage and charged at the three cultivators.


    Two martial artists dream of opposing us, cultivators? the old woman scoffed with a cackle.


    She was worried that Fang Chen might have some hidden ace up his sleeves, but the fact that he ordered martial artists to deal with cultivators put her heart at ease. It proved that he was a wastrel who didnt pose a threat.


    Rage flickered across the eyes of the three cultivators. They saw this as a humiliation.


    All of a sudden, Tie Ma and Huang Sihai activated their Flitting Talisman, Strength Talisman, and Protection Talisman. Their speed suddenly became extremely fast, their strength greatly increased, and a thin goldenyer shrouded their bodies.


    Fang Chen had previously warned them that they were up against enemies of a different caliber, so the two of them dared not to hold back.


    Talismans?! That wastrel! He gave his talismans to mere martial artists to use?!


    The three cultivators were both shocked and infuriated. In their eyes, those talismans should have been theirs!


    The third stage Ki Refinement cultivator channeled her spirit ki. The surrounding water vapor billowed, as it converged into an ice arrow that sted toward Huang Sihai.


    Bam!


    The ice arrow mmed into Huang Sihais chest, the heavy impact causing the sprinting giant to screech to a halt. He looked down and saw that the tip of the ice arrow had breached the Protection Talisman and sunk a few centimeters deep into his body.


    Interesting, Huang Sihai mumbled.


    His chest twitched, and the ice arrow was pushed out of his body. An injury of this extent was inconsequential to him.


    How is this possible The third stage Ki Refinement cultivator was stunned.


    He couldnt believe his ice arrow had failed to pierce through the other party. While the other party had used a Protection Talisman, he shouldnt have been able to draw out its true prowess as he wasnt a cultivator.


    <em>How could his body be so resilient?</em>


    Die! Huang Sihai snarled as he hurtled toward the third stage Ki Refinement cultivator as if a humongous bear.


    Shoosh! Shoosh!


    More ice arrows shot at Huang Sihai, but he simply protected his vitals with his arms. He was unfazed by the bombardment. He charged up to the third stage Ki Refinement cultivator and rammed his fist into thetter.


    He was usually not this agile, as his hulking body inevitably slowed him down. However, with the Flitting Talismans enhancement, he felt so light that he thought that he could fly in the sky.


    At the same time, Tie Ma dodged the attacks of the two second stage Ki Refinement cultivators while closing the distance between them. As soon as he got into proximity, he drew his sword in a sh and slit their necks.


    Even at their moment of death, the two second stage Ki Refinement cultivators couldnt believe that they had died at the hands of a martial artist.


    Ill help you.


    Tie Ma quickly went over to help Huang Sihai encircle the third stage Ki Refinement cultivator. Thetter appeared to have artifacts with him, as he waspletely unharmed even though he was sent flying with Huang Sihais fist.


    Even so, it didnt take long for the third stage Ki Refinement cultivator to struggle against the two martial artists heavily buffed by talismans. He could still asionally retaliate at the start, but it soon reached a point where he couldnt fight back at all.


    All he could do was to defend with his artifacts.


    Hes like a tortoise. He doesnt die no matter how we pummel him, Huang Sihai retorted.


    The old womans expression flickered when she saw this sight. She turned to Fang Chen and sneered, Those cultivators are so poor that they dont even have a talisman. No wonder they are so badly beaten. People like them are the lowest scums in the world of cultivation.


    Granny, are you telling me youre different from them? Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    Of course, the old woman sneered. Id be able to immediately suppress those two cultivators the moment I bring out my artifact. The same goes for you too. You should think about the


    A bolt of purple lightning cut her words short.


    Her spirit ki immediately rushed out to protect her, but it couldnt offset much of the Purple Lightning Talismans damage. She still suffered around 80% of the total damage, and it sent her staggering backward in a daze as smoke rose from her body.


    Her eyes widened in horror. A daoist art?! A talisman?!


    She hadnt expected the other party to prepare such means. She immediately reached for her artifact, only for yet another bolt of lightning to fall on her.


    Whats going on?!


    The bombardment of attacks startled the old woman. The furious influx of lighting ki rendered her incapable of channeling her spirit ki, making it impossible for her to counterattack.


    How are you different from them?


    Boom!


    You said you were different from them.


    Boom!


    Why arent you speaking? How are you different?


    Boom!


    Bolt after bolt of lightning crashed on the old woman. By the time Fang Chen reached her, her body was already charred ck. Her eyes had lost focus, and she was no longer able to fight.


    The difference between you and them is that youre from the Blood Spirit Cult, right?


    Those words spurred a reaction from the old woman. She snapped out of her daze and stared at Fang Chen with frightful eyes. W-who are you


    You dont recognize the Purple Lightning Talisman. The cultivators the Blood Spirit Cult nted in Great Xia arent too powerful, after all, Fang Chen sneered.


    This was good news.


    How do you know The old woman struggled to speak.


    Tell me. How many cultivators have your Blood Spirit Cult nted in Great Xia? Fang Chen cidly asked.


    Y-you know Im a Blood Spirit Cultist How dare you make a move on me The old woman red at Fang Chen in resentment.


    Im the one asking questions here. I dont mind sending you on your way if you cant answer, though itd be a waste for someone who has reached your level of cultivation, Fang Chen said.


    The old woman was finally intimidated. The person before her didnt fear the Blood Spirit Cult. She gritted her teeth and quietly answered, The upper echelons only dispatched me


    Ive already killed Daoist Xue. Ill kill you if your words contradict his in any way, Fang Chen interjected with a cold smile.


    The old woman stared at Fang Chen in disbelief. <em>He has already killed Daoist Xue? How can this be Who in the world is after their Blood Spirit Cult?! </em>She thought that a powerful sect hadid their eyes on the Blood Spirit Cult, and it filled her heart with fear.


    You only have one chance, Fang Chen said.


    The old woman hesitated before slowly answering, We have a total of seven people


    <em>Seven people? </em>Fang Chen maintained a nonchnt face, but his heart had grown heavy.

 Chapter 42: Taming an Artifact

    Chapter 42: Taming an Artifact


    Tell me everything you know. Where are they? Whats their cultivation? Why are you eyeing Great Xia? And do you have people in Guhe, Longdu, Yizhou, and Greenpine? Fang Chen said.


    Will you spare me if I speak? the old woman said with great difficulty. Her throat was so badly burned that it felt like knives were scraping in her each time she spoke.


    Of course, Fang Chen replied.


    Hehehe The old woman suddenlyughed. She looked at Fang Chen with contemptuous eyes. Do you think Id believe you? If I speak, not only will I die, but my fellow cultists will suffer the same fate too. I dont know who you are, but youre doomed for daring to make a move on our Blood Spirit Cult. Our Blood Spirit Cult is much stronger than you could have imagined!


    Youd rather die than to speak, hm? Fang Chen frowned.


    The old woman didnt say a word. Her eyes widened, and a trail of ck blood seeped from the corner of her lips. Fang Chen walked up to check on her. She was dead.


    The Blood Spirit Cult is formidable. Even its lower ranking members rather die than to betray the cult and divulge information. Fang Chen frowned.


    The old woman clearly knew more, but it was a pity she had ended her life. This meant that he had no choice but to work on Qin Dong.


    Young master, this fellow is like a tortoise. We cant kill him.


    Huang Sihai and Tie Ma captured the third stage Ki Refinement cultivator and brought them before Fang Chen. As much as the two of them couldnt hurt him, he was unable to find a chance to escape either.


    I admit defeat. Please spare me. The cultivator eyed the old womans corpse, and a shudder went down his spine. He anxiously begged Fang Chen for mercy.


    Tie Ma, give me your sword, Fang Chan said.


    Tie Ma handed his sword to Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen channeled his spirit ki into the sword before plunging it into the cultivators heart. Thetter looked down with indignant eyes before breathing hisst.


    Tie Ma and Huang Sihai were shocked.


    This person has an artifact that only spirit ki can prate. Your inner ki doesnt work well against it, Fang Chen exined.


    <em>Spirit ki </em>


    The two of them nced at each other in confusion, but they chose not to ask since Fang Chen didnt borate.


    With this, all four cultivators who blocked their path were dead.


    Fang Chen searched their bodies and acquired some ki stones and two artifacts. One was from the third stage Ki Refinement cultivator, and the other was from the old woman. There was also a manual on the old woman detailing the cultivation method for Fireball Art.


    Fang Chen ordered his subordinates to dispose of the corpses before making their way back to the capital.


    In the carriage, he did a quick tally and confirmed that he had more than a hundred low-grade ki stones at the moment.


    Then, he checked on the two artifacts. The old womans artifact was a palm-sized scarecrow overflowing with spirit ki. He could vaguely see five daosoul imprints shrouding it.


    Five daosoul imprints. Thats an artifact for a fifth stage Ki Refinement cultivator. It should be worth around 200 low-grade ki stones.


    The other artifact was a jade token with three daosoul imprints.


    Both artifacts carried their previous owners aura, so Fang Chen would have to assimte them if he wanted to use them.


    <em>Let me try assimting the artifacts.</em>


    Two hourster, Fang Chen exhausted the spirit ki inside him, but the old womans aura still lingered on the scarecrow. However, he wasnt worried about it, as his spirit ki quickly healed, and his spirit ki capacity even increased by a little.


    He continued channeling his spirit ki into the scarecrow.


    A dayter, he finally erased the old womans aura from the scarecrow and reced it with his. This meant that he had fully assimted the artifact.


    Another dayter, he sessfully assimted the jade token too.


    He decided to first try out the jade token. He channeled his spirit ki into the jade token, and he was immediately shrouded in a spirit ki barrier. As long as he didnt deplete his spirit ki, it would be difficult for even a fourth stage Ki Refinement cultivator to hurt him.


    The reason he was able to easily y the third stage Ki Refinement cultivator earlier was due to him having depleted most of his spirit ki under Tie Ma and Huang Sihais pummeling.


    For the time being, this jade token was a good defensive artifact for him.


    I wonder whats the use of this scarecrow Fang Chen murmured.


    He pumped his spirit ki into the scarecrow, and the scarecrow transformed into a middle-aged man and kneeled before him.


    Fang Chen was surprised. He took a closer look and found that the middle-aged man fitted Madam Wu and Grandpa Lus description.


    He emanates a formidable aura and is imbued with spirit ki, but he isnt a cultivator. Its unlikely he can use any daoist arts. His means are probably simr to that of martial artists. His strength surpasses that of a fourth stage Ki Manifestation martial artist, possibly reaching Earth Profound level, Fang Chen murmured his analysis.


    He shouted to those two outside, Stop for a moment.


    Tie Ma and Huang Sihai quickly stopped the carriage. Both of them were surprised when they saw a foreign middle-aged man getting off the carriage behind Fang Chen.


    Spar with him, Fang Chen instructed with a smile.


    The two of us? Huang Sihai was startled, but he quickly broke out with a grin. Young master, Ill suffice. Someone of his size wont be able to take ourbined onught.


    Sure, give it a try. Fang Chens lips crept up.


    Secondster, Huang Sihai was sent flying over a distance of fifty meters. He crashed onto the floor and sat in a daze, unable to stand up. It took him a while to calm his rattled innards before he raised his head and stared at the middle-aged man in disbelief.


    We should work together. Tie Ma narrowed his eyes.


    Huang Sihai didnt hold this back this time around. He coordinated his movements with Tie Ma to attack the middle-aged man, but thetter flitted like an elusive specter, and every strike from him wielded tremendous prowess.


    The two of them only withstood five to six exchanges before they were sent flying.


    Young master, this is? Huang Sihai and Tie Ma were rmed.


    Fang Chen retracted his spirit ki from the middle-aged man, and thetter reverted into a scarecrow before flying back into his hands.


    This further shocked the duo, especially when they remembered the talismans Fang Chen had given them. <em>Our young master has grasped such mystical means over thest five years?</em>


    This scarecrow is an artifact. Its strength surpasses Ki Manifestation cultivators, and its capable of dealing with cultivators, Fang Chen said with a smile.


    For instance, the scarecrow could have easily dealt with the third stage Ki Refinement cultivator from earlier on as it was using spirit ki.


    Young master, I have once heard that there are people in this world who possess mystical means that far surpass what we, martial artists, are capable of, as if they were immortals Tie Ma spoke with an intrigued frown.


    Yes. Those people pursue a different path from martial artists. They cultivate in hopes of reaching immortalhood, which is why they are called cultivators, Fang Chen replied with a nod.


    The duo finally realized that their young master had started walking down apletely different path from theirs, and they were overjoyed to hear that.

 Chapter 43: Longdu Noble

    Chapter 43: Longdu Noble


    Young master, well be reaching Great Xia in half a days time. Are we heading straight for the capital? Tie Ma surveyed their surroundings before asking.


    Well head straight back to the capital, Fang Chens voice sounded from the carriage.


    Tie Ma nodded.


    Just as he was about to crack the whip, he felt light tremors from the ground and frowned. These tremors felt familiar to him. <em>Cavalrymen, and theres a lot of them. At least a hundred.</em>


    Old Huang had arrived at the same conclusion too, and his face turned severe. Why would cavalrymen appear by the borders?


    Were living in tumultuous times. It could be bandits, Tie Ma said. Lets not get involved since the young master is here with us today. Lets rush back to the capital.


    Old Huang thought those words made sense, so they cracked their whips and made haste.


    To their dismay, the tremors were drawing closer to them. Soon, a huge bunch of flustered figures appeared in their line of sight. Tie Ma and Old Huang exchanged looks before stopping their carriage to watch the situation.


    The one fleeing appeared to be a merchant caravan. A toon of guards were hurriedly escaping with carriages filled with goods.


    Just then, the pursuers appeared. An excited voice echoed, Bring me my bow! I shall achieve my hundredth kill today!


    An arrow was fired, and it nearly shot one of the escaping guards.


    Longdus cavalrymen. Tie Mas face darkened. <em>Why would there be Longdus cavalrymen by Great Xias boundary?</em>


    Judging from their direction of travel, they came from Longdus hunting ins. It looks like a Longdu noble is hunting down our Great Xias merchant, Old Huang said with a frosty voice.


    Young master? Tie Ma asked.


    You settle it, Fang Chen replied.


    Tie Ma and Old Huang leaped off the carriage and charged ahead. They were not worried about Fang Chens safety at all.


    Fang Chen drew out his soul and impassively watched the situation from above.


    The pursuerprised at least a hundred Longdu cavalrymen, with an extravagant chariot at the center. A Longdu youth, who looked around eighteen years of age, stood on the chariot with a bow in hand, as he excitedly aimed his shot at the Great Xia merchant caravan.


    This youth had to be a Longdu noble, as only their nobles were allowed to rear cavalrymen.


    These cavalrymen were decently strong, with even the weakest of them being at mid first stage Ki Condensation. At the scale of a hundred men, they could be considered as an elite unit.


    Inparison, the Great Xia merchant caravan was much weaker. It only had fifteen guards, and their strongest martial artist was only atte first stage Ki Condensation.


    Old Huang and Tie Ma arrived at the battlefield at this point, and they didnt hesitate to charge at the iing Longdu cavalrymen.


    Wait! a voice echoed from the merchant caravan.


    The fleeing crowd halted. They turned around to look at Old Huang and Tie Ma, and their eyes widened in shock.


    Lets run, young miss. Well be reaching Great Xia soon.


    Two Great Xia experts have stepped forward to protect us. We dont need to run anymore.


    A woman walked out from the carriage with aposed demeanor. There was not the slightest fluster to be seen on her face, as she looked at Old Huang and Tie Ma.


    Young miss, theres only two of them! Theres no way


    Before the womans maid could finish her words, Old Huang flexed his arm and suplexed two cavalrymen onto the floor.


    At the same time, Tie Mas sword shed like a bolt of lightning. To conserve his stamina and inner ki, his attacks were aimed at the vitals. In the blink of an eye, he had already pierced the foreheads of six Longdu cavalrymen.


    Strong! the womans maid eximed with an agape mouth.


    The guard leader of the merchant caravan galloped over to the womans side and remarked in delight, Good news, young miss! Those two martial artists are at least at Ki Explosion!


    There was amon saying that Ki Explosion martial artists could fend off a hundred soldiers, and this was not just empty words!


    Do you recognize the two of them? the woman asked.


    The guard leader shook his head. There arent many Ki Explosion martial artists left in Great Xia, but Im afraid I dont recognize them.


    Reaching Ki Explosion was a hurdle. Those who overcame this hurdle gained significant prestige within Great Xia, and this elevated their circles. It was not easy for those from a lower circle to be acquainted with them.


    Dont worry. Ill personally thank them after this, the woman said.


    On the other side, the Longdu youth was enraged when he saw Old Huang and Tie Ma killing his cavalrymen. He roared in anger, Kill them! Kill them all! How dare they spoil my fun? Today, Ill use their heads as my night urn!


    Several figures suddenly leaped forth from the cavalrymen and attacked Old Huang and Tie Ma. They were shrouded by ayer of inner ki, indicating that they were Ki Explosion martial artists.


    The woman and the guard leaders faces stiffened up.


    Ki Explosion martial artists?! the guard leader eximed.


    What is the background of this Longdu cavalrymen unit? Why do they have Ki Explosion martial artists? the woman asked in shock.


    Young miss, that youth must be a Longdu high noble to have Ki Explosion martial artists serving him Its likely that hes a viscount, the guard leader grimly replied.


    Viscounts were considered high-ranking nobles in Longdu in view of the countrys background.


    Longdus highest decision-maker was still the emperor, but it was a country consisting of many noble-owned fiefs. Nobles from baron onward had their own fiefs, and they wielded the power to autonomously govern their region. In other words, Longdus nobles were practically emperors in their own fiefs!


    Young miss, lets escape. The face of the womans maid turned pale in fright.


    How can we run away after implicating those two martial artists? The woman shook her head. She turned to the guard leader and ordered, Escort the others to safety. Ill stay here.


    That wont do. I epted your money; Im obliged to safely escort all of you to Great Xia. I cant abandon you, the guard leader rejected the order.


    However, the other guards werent as brave. They exchanged looks with one another before galloping off together, abandoning the merchant caravan.


    You bastards! the guard leader furiously roared.


    Just then, in his peripheral vision, he saw Old Huang and Tie Ma ying the Longdu Ki Explosion martial artists. One of them was even sent flying over a hundred meters before crashing lifelessly into the ground.


    This Both the woman and the guard leader were astounded.


    The remaining members of the merchant caravan stood in disbelief for a few seconds before their faces lit up in joy. <em>Were saved!</em>


    Damn it! Kill them! Dont let them get close to me! the Longdu noble roared in a panic.


    The cavalrymen charged at Old Huang and Tie Ma, only to be helplessly massacred. It was almost like a bunch of children were trying to go against two war veterans. Half of them died within moments. The surviving ones huddled up around the Longdu youth with anxious faces.


    The abrupt transition from the hunters to the hunted had left them at a loss.


    Whats your nobility in Longdu? Tie Ma coldly asked.


    <strong>Little trivia from Starve</strong>


    In ancient China, you dont have to go to thetrine if you are of sufficiently high standing. Instead, you have an urn that you can pee and poo into, and your servants will dispose of the content on your behalf Thats the night urn that the Longdu youth was talking about.

 Chapter 44: Young Master, How Should We Deal With This?

    Chapter 44: Young Master, How Should We Deal With This?


    You damned Great Xia martial artists! The Longdu youth red at Tie Ma and quietly cursed at thetter before finally speaking with a cold face, I am Viscount Zhou Xiu from Longdu!


    <em>Zhou? Thats one of Longdus major ns!</em>


    Tie Ma and Old Huang exchanged looks. Tie Ma then coldly asked, Why are you hunting our Great Xias merchant caravan?


    Do I need a reason to kill lowly peasants? I advise you not to get involved in my business! Zhou Xiu spat. I came here to marry your Sixth Princess. If you know whats better for you, youd scram right now.


    Youre marrying the Sixth Princess? Tie Ma and Old Huang were taken aback.


    In the sky, Fang Chens face darkened. <em>It looks like the emperor is seeking a political marriage with Longdu in hopes that thetter can mediate between Great Xia and Greenpine. </em>


    Over at the merchant caravan, the woman and the guard leader also heard Zhou Xius words, and theirplexions turned awful. <em>That fellow is Great Xias prince consort? This </em>Zhou<em> Xiu is practically untouchable if we consider his position as a Longdu viscount too! This is bad! </em>


    What should we do the guard leader asked bitterly.


    Just then, another cavalry unit galloped over from Great Xias direction, and it didnt take long for them to arrive at the scene.


    Its our Great Xias soldiers! Those from the merchant caravan were overjoyed.


    These Great Xia cavalrymen wore superior equipment and were armed with ornate swords. Theirmander gave off an imposing and authoritative air that naturally intimidated others.


    Riding alongside themander was a fair-skinned, schrly youth, as well as a couple of schrs dressed in traditional Londu robes. Their faces lit up when they saw Zhou Xiu.


    Brother Zhou, I havee to receive you under the crown princes order, the fair-skinned, schrly youth eximed.


    He was Tao Yu, the Minister of Rites son and a famed schr of Great Xias capital! The Longdu schrs traveling with him were famous people in the capital too.


    Zhou Xiu was overjoyed to see them too. He pointed at Tie Ma and Huang Sihai and bellowed, Tao Yu, you arrived at a good time. These two martial artists from your Great Xia killed half of my subordinates. How should we deal with this matter?


    Those from the merchant caravan were stunned. They thought that the tides were in their favor now that Great Xias soldiers had arrived, but who could have thought they were here to receive Zhou Xiu?


    What? Did such a thing really happen? Tao Yu was angered. He red at Tie Ma and roared, Who are the two of you?! How dare you attack a guest of our Great Xia?! General Yuwen, take the two of them down! We shall bring them before the crown prince to judge!


    Yes, young master! General Yuwen nodded.


    He was just about to make a move when he realized that one of the two martial artists was a familiar face, causing him to freeze up. He stared intently at Huang Sihai in disbelief.


    General Yuwen? Tao Yu urged.


    Young master Tao, something is wrong here, General Yuwen said with a grim voice.


    Whats wrong here?! Tao Yu was losing his patience.


    That man is one of the Four Dragon Generals, Huang Sihai He should have been locked in the Court of Great Brilliance General Yuwen pointed at Huang Sihai.


    What?! Huang Sihai?! Tao Yu was startled.


    He rubbed his eyes and stared hard at Huang Sihai. Only then did he recognize thetter, and many emotions shed across his face.


    Zhou Xiu and those over at the merchant caravan also noticed that something was amiss, prompting them to cast their gaze on Huang Sihai.


    Yuwen Jing, I heard you became the crown princes personal guard after our battle at the Three Realms Mountain. It looks like you have been faring well, Huang Sihai said with a grin.


    Paying respect to General Huang. It has been five years, but youre as vigorous as ever, Yuwen Jing sped his fist with a conflicted look.


    Five years ago, he was a soldier under Huang Sihaismand. However, the tragic defeat at the Three Realms Mountain resulted in the Fang Factions dissolution, so Fang Chens previous subordinates had to look for new lieges. He was one of them too.


    Those who refused to look for new backing didnt end well. Huang Sihai was an example of that.


    Lets not waste our time. Im going to ughter that brat today. Are you going to stop me? Huang Sihai coldly snorted as he pointed at Zhou Xiu.


    Tao Yu, who is this man?! Zhou Xiu roared with a voice quivering in anger and horror.


    The merchant caravan was intrigued too. While they didnt recognize Huang Sihai, they could tell that the two martial artists were of high standing, or else the Great Xias general wouldnt have revealed such an expression.


    Hes a relic of the past, one of Fang Chens Four Dragon Generals, Tao Yu sneered.


    One of Fang Chens Four Dragon Generals?!


    The crowd was taken aback.


    The woman and the guard leader gasped. They would have never thought that their savior would be one of the legendary Four Dragon Generals.


    Zhou Xiu was stunned, but he quickly snapped out of it. <em>Fang Chen isnt the same man as he used to be. With my current standing, theres no need for me to fear him. </em>He looked haughtily at Huang Sihai and scoffed, Hmph! And here I was wondering whos arrogant. Is your master not here with you today? A dog without his master dares to bare his fangs at me?


    He then turned to Tao Yu and said, Your people killed so many of my men. Unless you offer me a satisfactory exnation, I shant be entering your Great Xia today. Also, tell your emperor that our marriage agreement is off! Dont expect me to raise a finger if Greenpine invades you!


    Tao Yus face warped in shock. He quickly turned to Yuwen Jing and respectfully bowed. General Yuwen, you have apprehend them right now. Those two men have already threatened the good ties between our Great Xia and Longdu. They cant be forgiven!


    Young master Tao, Im only atte Ki Explosion, whereas General Huang boasts strength that matches a Ki Control martial artist. Our people arent a match for him, Yuwen Jing replied with a helpless expression.


    Tao Yu was startled. He cursed under his breath, Damned martial artists.


    Yuwen Jing frowned, but he didnt say a word.


    Tao Yu turned to Huang Sihai and said in a severe tone, Huang Sihai, your actions have undermined our ties with Longdu. I advise you to put down your weapons and surrender.


    Weapons? Do I look armed? Huang Sihai looked at his bare hands and burst intoughter.


    Tao Yus expression further darkened. Im asking you to surrender! Dont change the topic!


    A snotty brat like you isnt qualified to make me surrender. That scoundrel over there hunted our civilians as if they were livestock. How do you think we should deal with that? Huang Sihai asked as he pointed at Zhou Xiu.


    There was a subtle change in the crowds expressions.


    In truth, Tao Yu and Yuwen Jing had long noticed the merchant caravan, and they knew about Zhou Xius tendencies too. However, this was inconsequential before their national security, and mentioning it here only made all of them look bad.


    Well look into it, but a civilian like you has no right to kill the Longdu cavalrymen. The world would descend into chaos if everyone enforces thew at their whim like you, Tao Yu sneered.


    Hear that? Your master has no right to deal with me, let aloneckeys like you. All I did was to kill some lowly peasants. Your emperor wouldnt make things difficult for me over something this small. The two of you should learn your ce and back down! Zhou Xiu sneered.


    Huang Sihai ignored Zhou Xiu and instead sped his fist toward a lonesome carriage stationed not too far away. Young master, how should we deal with this?


    <em>Young master?! Could it be that War God Fang is here today?!</em>


    The crowd was stunned.


    The woman and the guard leader exchanged looks before heaving a sigh of relief.

 Chapter 45: 1 For 10

    Chapter 45: 1 For 10


    The crowd stared intently at the lonesome carriage. Tao Yu looked nervous. Yuwen Jing was dripping cold sweat. Zhou Xiu was horrified.


    Secondster, a person emerged from the carriage, and the crowd gasped.


    It really was Fang Chen!


    Young miss, is that man really War God Fang? He looks young. The womans maid nervously trembled as she instinctively grabbed the womans sleeve.


    War God Fang was 18 five years ago, which makes him 23 now. Of course hed look young. The woman tried her best topose herself, but her quivering voice let slip her agitation.


    Well be fine today. The guard leader finally let loose of his tension.


    He was confident that the young War God here would stand up for powerless civilians like them, even if the person on the other side was a Longdu noble.


    Fang Chen walked over to Huang Sihai and Tie Mas side. He first looked at Yuwen Jing and smiled. It has been a while, Yuwen Jing.


    Yuwen Jing hurriedly leaped off his steed and half-kneeled on the ground. Yuwen Jing pays respect to young master!


    With theirmander on the ground, how could the soldiers dare to remain on their steeds? They quickly got off their horses and kneeled too.


    This put Tao Yu and the others in an awkward position. They looked awfully conspicuous being the only ones riding on the horses.


    I am a mere civilian now. General Yuwen need not pay such respect to me, Fang Chen said.


    Conflicting emotions flickered across Yuwen Jings face. He quietly rose to his feet, as a bitter smile slowly emerged on his face.


    Its good that youre here, Fang Chen. Tao Yu clenched his jaws. Viscount Zhou Xiu is a Longdu noble, as well as the prince consort chosen by His Majesty. There appears to be a misunderstanding between your subordinates and him. Ill leave it to you to resolve it.


    Misunderstanding? That man ughtered our civilians as if they were livestock, and you call that a misunderstanding? Fang Chen said with a smile that somehow looked intimidating.


    Fang Chen, are you really going to go against me over these lowly peasants? Zhou Xiu asked.


    Were in Great Xia. Our Great Xia has no noble ns, only conferred nobles. There is a difference between the two. Conferred nobles are elevated and celebrated by our Great Xias civilians. Without them, our conferred nobles are nothing at all.


    Fang Chen then looked at Zhou Xiu and shook his head. This is not Longdu. Youre gravely mistaken if you think that our Great Xias civilians are the same peasants you ughter as you please in your fief.


    Theres no difference between the two. Zhou Xiu harrumphed. Why dont we get to the point? How are you going topensate me? You have killed so many of my subordinates. I wont let things slip with a mere apology.


    There was a short pause before he continued, Your emperor will punish you if I return to Longdu. Youd know what to prioritize if youre wise. Dont sour the ties between our countries over a few lowly lives.


    Thats right! Viscount Zhou is our Longdus noble. We beseech War God Fang to handle this matter impartially. Our Longdu has always advocated for peace between Great Xia and Longdu. Im sure War God Fang wouldnt want us to side with Greenpine, right? the Longdu schrs spoke up too, their words carrying threat.


    Fang Chen, you need to prioritize whats important here, Tao Yu said.


    Those from the merchant caravan turned pale. It was much harder to deal with this matter now that national interests were involved.


    How many casualties do you have? Fang Chen turned to the merchant caravan and asked.


    The woman and the guard leader were startled. They hadnt expected War God Fang to turn to them. The woman first took a deep breath to calm down, mustered her courage, and bowed. Fang Qingyao pays respect to War God Fang. Our merchant caravan has lost two servants and three guards.


    Understood. Fang Chen nodded. He turned back to Zhou Xiu and said, Our Great Xias civilians are worth ten times more than your Longdu cavalrymen. Ill take ten of your lives for each casualty we sustain.


    Tie Ma and Huang Sihai caught Fang Chens drift and made their move. As if a tiger leaping into a pack of sheeps, they ughtered all of the cavalrymen Zhou Xiu brought with ease.


    Yuwen Jing and the others watched the situation from afar, not daring to make a move.


    It would take a lot of courage for them to confront Huang Sihai even if Fang Chen wasnt here, and Fang Chen <em>was</em> here.


    Yuwen Jing would never forget how, back in the Three Realms Mountain, Huang Sihai was encircled by a thousand Wolf Army soldiers and was drenched in blood, but he still ughtered over a hundred Wolf Army soldiers before finally falling in defeat.


    Zhou Xius cavalrymen were outssed here. Huang Sihai could deal with them with one hand.


    Tao Yu and the Longdu schrs were livid. Those from the merchant caravan were dumbstruck. Zhou Xiu was in utter shock, as he pointed his finger at Fang Chen with quivering lips.


    In just a few moments, all of the people whom Zhou Xiu brought were dead.


    Fang Chen smiled. He turned to Tao Yu and said, Since His Majesty has chosen him to be the prince consort, Ill prioritize the situation and let you take him.


    Thank you, War God Fang! Tao Yu gritted his teeth, but he dared not to say anything.


    He ordered the soldiers to take the stupefied Zhou Xiu with them before quickly leaving the scene. He dared not linger out of fear that Fang Chen would change his mind.


    Lets go, Fang Chen instructed Tie Ma and Huang Sihai before returning to the carriage.


    Seeing that, Fang Qingyao clenched her fist and marched up to the carriage alone. She first respectfully bowed to Fang Chen before saying, Qingyao would like to thank War God Fang for saving our lives.


    Which merchant association do you belong to? Fang Chen asked.


    Our Verdant Apothecary Hall belongs to Striding Dragon Consortium, Fang Qingyao replied.


    Verdant Apothecary Hall? You deal with herbs?


    Thats right. Fang Qingyao hurriedly nodded.


    Mm, Longdu does have a thriving herb industry. Youre doing good. Great Xias herb prices would have remained sky high if not for your people shipping herbs back. Fang Chen smiled. Be more careful in the future.


    With that, he told Tie Ma and Huang Sihai to set off, and their carriage slowly disappeared in the horizon.


    Young miss, did you just strike a conversation with War God Fang? Fang Qingyaos maid rushed over and excitedly asked.


    I did. War God Fang praised us, saying that Great Xias herb prices would have been sky-high if not for us shipping herbs back. He also told us to be careful in the future, Fang Qingyao said with a smile.


    Her maid looked envious.


    The guard leader galloped over and said, Manager Fang, we should get going.


    Mm. Fang Qingyao nodded. She mumbled under her breath, I wonder if Id be able to meet War God Fang again if we deliver this batch of herbs to the capital


    Fang Chen spent seven days traveling to and fro Dragonback Lane, but he had reaped huge gains. Not only did he eliminate a Blood Spirit Cultist, but he also obtained better materials for his talisman drawing, over a hundred low-grade ki stones, and two artifacts.


    War God Fang, you lied! Celestial Xiao ended up waiting for seven days before she finally saw Fang Chen again.


    How did I lie? Fang Chen asked.


    Xu Ge said that you went away on a leisure trip for seven days, but theres definitely more to that. You ought to bring me along when you investigate that daoists background! Celestial Xiao said.


    So far, I have confirmed that they are indeed after your life. Their motive is to stir war between Greenpine and Great Xia, and they would benefit from our bloodshed, Fang Chen said. What you need to do now is to hide in the Fang Manor and dont get caught. If they seed, it wont just be our Great Xia who would suffer great losses. Itll be the same for your Greenpine too.


    Celestial Xiao was stunned.

 Chapter 46: Why Are You Reasoning With a Martial Artist?

    Chapter 46: Why Are You Reasoning With a Martial Artist?


    Whats their goal? What can they earn from a war between Greenpine and Great Xia? Celestial Xiaos face turned grim.


    She thought that Greenpine attacking Great Xia was just natural selection at work, but she was unnerved by the knowledge that a third power had been nudging them along. <em>Doesnt that make our Greenpine a pawn on someone elses chessboard? Does Greenpines upper echelon know this?</em>


    Many doubts surfaced in her mind.


    You just have to stay still, Fang Chen said. You dont have to do anything.


    Celestial Xiao had more to say, but Fang Chen had already turned around and left. She tried to chase him, but Xu Ge stood in her way.


    Celestial Xiao, our young master has been patient with you. Dont push your luck. You have nothing to gain from that, Xu Ge reminded.


    Do you intend to imprison me here? Celestial Xiao frowned.


    Our young master said that youre free to leave. Xu Ge stepped aside. We wont stop you.


    Celestial Xiao fell silent.


    Since you dont intend to leave, you better stay still, Xu Ge said with a smirk.


    That night, Fang Chen ground the cinnabar, dabbed his spirit-ki-infused brush into it, and drew on his recently acquired stack of talisman papers to create more Purple Lightning Talismans.


    My spirit ki is depleting at a faster rate, but its flowing more stably now. Using equipment infused with spirit ki does make a difference when ites to drawing talismans, Fang Chen said with a smile.


    Back when he used a normal brush, he felt like the spirit ki he infused into the brush was more unruly, and the slightest carelessness could result in his efforts being in vain. This feeling was greatly lessened now, but he was consuming spirit ki faster now.


    On top of that, the Purple Lightning Talisman he drew would be significantly stronger now.


    He would deplete his spirit ki once every two hours, but by daybreak, he had already drawn eight Purple Lightning Talismans. It was also around then that the surrounding spirit ki suddenly began converging into his body at a furious pace.


    Within moments, another immortal vein formed inside his body. At the same time, his spirit ki capacity also increased by four to five times that of before.


    Ive reached third stage Ki Refinement? Fang Chen smiled as he felt the changes brought about by his breakthrough.


    His progress hadnt been so fast back when he was a martial artist. His rich soul was clearly helping him a lot in his immortal cultivation, which was why he caught Daoist Cloudcranes attention in the first ce.


    I wonder if Id get a chance to meet that fairy again. Was she the one who elevated my soul, or was there some other impetus? Fang Chen wondered.


    He might not be able to see anymore, but the benefits clearly outweighed the cons.


    Young master, Guhe, Longdu, and Yizhous schrs are berating us outside our manor! Xu Ge said from the doorway with a seething voice.


    Why? Fang Chen pushed the door open and walked out with a smile.


    Theyre saying that you unreasonably massacred the cavalrymen of a Longdu noble! Xu Ge reported with an irked voice.


    Ah, I remember that Zhou Xiu is entering the capital today. It looks like hes still unhappy with what happened and wants to get even. Fang Chen chuckled. Whats the situation outside?


    The second master is shouting back at them, but there are too many of them. Whats even more irksome is that they are well-learned, and they use esoteric words and phrases, so even I struggle to understand their insults, Xu Ge replied.


    Lets go out and take a look, Fang Chen said. <em>Theres no way second uncle could be a match for those schrs. I reckon hes hopping with anger right now.</em>


    At Fang Manors entrance, Fang Cangyou and a squad of guards furiously stared down the schrs from the three countries, but their strong bodies provided little defense against those schrs psychological attacks.


    Great Xia should have been a cultured country that observes etiquette, but its reputation is dragged down by your Fang Manor. You martial artists might be uneducated, but youre going too far to massacre the cavalrymen of my countrys viscount. Get Fang Chen out to give us an exnation!


    Stop being a tortoise, Fang Chen! Come up and face the consequences of your actions!


    If we dont receive a satisfactory exnation today, well march to the imperial pce and report you! Lets see if His Majesty will tolerate thewlessness of the Fang Manors martial artists!


    You brutes are ruining Great Xia!


    The schrs hurled a tirade of insults, and they would slip in some of their countries ng every now and then. Fang Cangyou turned livid in anger. He wanted to retort, but before he could say a word, he was immediately silenced by another wave of insults.


    The spectating Great Xias civilians were at a loss. They dared not to speak up after hearing that Fang Chen had unreasonably massacred the cavalrymen of a Longdus viscount.


    This matter was elevated to a diplomatic matter between two countries, after all!


    There were also Great Xia schrs amongst the group who criticized Fang Chens actions too, but their words were much more polite. At the very least, they were objective in their criticisms and didnt devolve into personal insults.


    How infuriating! Why do these dogshit schrs have such sharp mouths? Fang Cangyou was so angry that he wanted to leap forth from his wheelchair and give these schrs a tight p.


    Shut your mouths, a cold bellow sounded.


    The crowd instinctively fell silent.


    Fang Chen walked out of the manor with Xu Ge and impassively looked at the schrs gathered at the entrance. Its early morning. What are you trying to do yelling at the entrance of our Fang Manor?


    Amongst the crowd, Long Huixin stepped forward and sneered, Fang Chen, you brutally massacred our Longdu cavalrymen. You have to give us an exnation. It might be Longdu today, but it could be Guhe and Yizhou tomorrow. Is there now in Great Xia anymore?


    Thats right!


    Our sentiments exactly, Miss Long!


    The crowd voiced their agreement with Long Huixin.


    A Great Xia schr sped his fist and said, War God Fang, this matter involves our diplomatic rtionship with Longdu. It could bring trouble to our Great Xia if we dont handle it properly. Our people hope that you can offer an exnation too.


    Exnation? What kind of exnation are you looking for? Fang Chen asked.


    Those words stumped the crowd. <em>Indeed, what kind of exnation are we looking for?</em>


    However, Long Huixin had already thought things through. We want you to first head to our Longdu embassy and apologize for what you did before surrendering yourself to the judgment of Great Xiasws.


    p her, Tie Ma, Fang Chen instructed with a smile.


    Yes, young master. A person flitted in front of Long Huixin and gave her ten tight ps.


    The crowd was dazed.


    Fang Cangyou was startled. As much as he wanted to do the same, he knew that this could potentially turn everyone against their Fang Manor. Chener, you need to calm down!


    Its as they have said, second uncle. Were martial artists. Why are you wasting your strength debating with those schrs? You should have just beaten them up, Fang Chen replied.


    We can do that? Fang Cangyou was baffled.


    Why not? Fang Chen asked with a chuckle.


    The ps left Long Huixin so disheveled that she looked like a madwoman. She stood in a daze until the stinging pain on her cheeks finally sank in, and she howled in disbelief, Y-you dare to hit me?!


    Fang a Guhe schr roared in anger.


    p him.


    Yes, young master.


    The angry Guhe schr had his rage pped out of him.


    You all


    p him.


    Yes, young master.


    You


    p her.


    The schrs who attempted to criticize Fang Chen were left with swollen cheeks. Not even Great Xias schrs were spared from the ps.


    The crowd red hatefully at Fang Chen. If they stood a chance at all, they wouldnt have hesitated to pounce on him and tear him into shreds.


    Fang Chen chuckled. I am a mere martial artist. Why bother reasoning with me? Try this once more, and it wont end with just ps next time. Ill take at least a leg.


    The crowd felt chilled. <em>How can he be sowless?</em>


    You still dont want to leave? Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    The schrs knew better than to test Fang Chens bottom line, especially since thetter had already massacred Longdus cavalrymen. Thus, they turned around and left.


    Long Huixin touched her cheeks before taking her leave. She turned around and angrily red at Fang Chen.

 Chapter 47: Thorough Search

    Chapter 47: Thorough Search


    Young master, why didnt you tell them what Zhou Xiu did? Tie Ma asked.


    Them? Fang Chen burst intoughter. Are they worthy?


    Tie Ma nodded. <em>If the young master said they arent worthy, they must be unworthy.</em>


    Chener, why did you mess with Longdus cavalrymen? Fang Cangyou asked.


    Fang Chen quickly exined the incident to Fang Cangyou. Thetter was infuriated upon hearing Fang Xius deed. If I knew, I would have ordered my men to beat up that bastard!


    Just then, a person discreetly approached them.


    Do you need me for something? Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    It was the constable under Yuan Zhuangsmand, Yuan Yu.


    Young master, my cousin has gone missing! Yuan Yu anxiously cried out.


    Fang Chen frowned. Missing? Tell me more.


    Ever since the day we apprehended those two at Phantom Dragon Street, he hasnt shown up at the Court of Great Brilliance. I thought he had a private case to work on, so I didnt think much about it at the start. However, he didnt show up for the subsequent days, and even his parents asked me if I knew whats going on, Yuan Yu said with a suppressed voice.


    Calm down. Come in first. Fang Chen nodded before gesturing her into the Fang Manor.


    Yuan Yu was worried. Her instincts told her that something had happened to Yuan Zhuang, and it likely had something to do with the case he and Fang Chen worked on a few days ago.


    In the guest room, Yuan Yu had settled down on one of the chairs and was fidgeting nonstop. She looked at Fang Chen and saw him resting on the chair with closed eyes. She grumbled in displeasure, but she forced herself to remain calm and wait a bit longer.


    More time passed, but Fang Chen remainedpletely still.


    Yuan Yu finally lost her patience and said, War God Fang, my cousin went missing due to the case we handled together. You cant just leave him in the lurch!


    Calm down, Constable Yuan. Our young master is thinking, Xu Ge replied.


    <em>Thinking? Whats there to think about? The first thing he should do right now is to mobilize his connections to search for my cousin! We have to first find him before deciding on the next step! </em>Yuan Yu was frustrated.


    She didnt know that Yuan Yu had drawn out his soul and wasbing through the capital.


    Finding a person in the huge Great Xias capital was no different from searching for a needle in a haystack, but Fang Chens soul could pass through walls and search with great efficiency. There was a good chance he could find Yuan Zhuang as long as thetter was in the capital.


    An hourter, Fang Chens soul arrived at the Valiant Defenders barracks in the inner city.


    The Valiant Defenders were busy as ever. Some were busy reviewing cases, while the others were rushing to and fro its corridors. There was no end to its work.


    The inner citys Valiant Defenders had ten chiliarchs who took on purely academic roles, which meant that they didnt have soldiers under theirmand. These chiliarchs reported to the Enforcement Envoy, who wielded far greater power.


    The Enforcement Envoy had the authority to mobilize the Valiant Defenders and put an arrest warrant on an individual. They also had the power to take anyone into custody, including officials, without going through the Court of Great Brilliance.


    Their barracks had a private prison, where a bloodied Yuan Zhuang was tied to a wooden pole. Standing before him were two Valiant Defenders centurions, who were ready tomence the next round of torture on him.


    Lord Yuan, I advise you to confess. Now that youre in our barracks, you wont be walking out of here intact even if you survive this ordeal. Its impossible for you to be reinstated as a Court of Great Brilliances rectifier, one of the centurions said with a ming brand in hand.


    What should I confess to? Yuan Zhuang opened his swollen eyes and red at the centurions. I, Yuan Zhuang, have never done anything against my conscience. What rights do you, Valiant Defenders, have to arrest me?


    His Majesty has decreed that criminal investigations in the inner city have to go through the Court of Great Brilliance, followed by the Bureau of Justice. You Valiant Defenders have no enforcement right in the inner city, especially not against a Court of Great Brilliances rectifier like me! A civil servant who knowingly vites thew will be subjected to capital punishment!


    The other centurion burst intoughter. Lord Yuan sure has a tough mouth. We, the Valiant Defenders, might have been impeached and suppressed by the imperial court, but you shouldnt forget that were working for His Majesty. Do you think wed fear you?


    His Majesty Yuan Zhuang was startled.


    Speak! Why were you investigating a case with Fang Chen in the outer city? the centurion holding the me brand coldly questioned. If you insist on remaining silent, Ill seal your mouth with the brand so that you never utter a word again.


    This is too much! Yuan Zhuang was rmed. <em>They are going to seal my mouth with a brand? How can I face others in the future?</em>


    Thats why Im telling you to confess. We wont hurt you as long as youe out clean, the centurion sneered.


    Ive told you everything I know. I apanied War God Fang to the suburbs for leisure, and we coincidentally bumped into that incident. What else do you want me to say? Yuan Zhuang eximed in frustration.


    The two centurions nced at each other. One of them scoffed, I know you have been investigating the Vice Minister of Rites disappearance case. Tell us, how much do you know about that?


    Are the Valiant Defenders involved in that case? I knew it! No wonder that Centurion Xu from the outer city protected Grandpa Lu. Were you the ones who kidnapped those missing people? Yuan Zhuang roared in anger.


    Were the ones asking questions here, the centurion holding the me brand sneered as he pressed it against Yuan Zhuangs chest.


    Sssss!


    White smoke puffed from the point of contact.


    Yuan Zhuang trembled from the excruciating pain, and cold sweat wouldnt stop flowing down his forehead. After going through days of torture, he barely had the strength to weakly harrumph a bit to the torture. His willpower was already reaching its limit.


    Nevertheless, he continued to hold on because he knew the other party was up to something.


    He couldnt tell these two fellows that Fang Chen was the one who dragged him into this case. He could only pray that Fang Chen would somehow find and rescue him.


    <em>War God Fang has everything under his control. I have been missing for days now, so Yuan Yu should have knocked on the Fang Manor to inform him about my disappearance. He should be on the verge of finding me by now. I just have to hold on a bit longer</em>


    If not for Yuan Zhuang clutching onto this sliver of hope, he would have long sumbed to the torture.


    Speak! How much does War God Fang know about this? the centurion holding the brand questioned.


    Kill me then! Make sure to thoroughly dispose of my corpse. Otherwise, all of you will be ughtered if War God Fang finds out about this! Yuan Zhuang spat a mouthful of bloodied water. You should open your eyes and see who youre going up against. War God Fang has already regained his martial cultivation. He didnt hesitate to light up Greenpine Superior Dojo; who do you think you Valiant Defenders are?


    The centurion holding the brand was infuriated. He raised the brand to seal off Yuan Zhuangs mouth, only for the other centurion to immediately stop him.


    Dont go too far. He makes sense, the other centurion said with a suppressed voice.


    While Fang Chen was no longer in the imperial court and had no soldiers under hismand, his means still struck fear in the hearts of many. Even the Valiant Defenders dared not to cross him!


    Even a dead tiger gave off an air of intimidation, not to mention this tiger was well alive!


    The two of them chatted a bit more before leaving the prison. A man wearing a ck cloak was waiting for them outside.


    Enforcement Envoy Liu, his words remain the same as thest few days, the two centurions respectfully reported.


    Continue interrogating him, Enforcement Envoy Liu replied.


    Meanwhile, in the Fang Manors guest room, Fang Chen slowly opened his eyes and turned to the nervous Yuan Yu. Lord Yuan is in the Valiant Defenders barracks. Follow me there.

 Chapter 48: If the Young Master Says He’s There, He Must Be There

    Chapter 48: If the Young Master Says He¡¯s There, He Must Be There


    Yuan Yu stared at Fang Chen in disbelief. <em>He has only closed his eyes for two hours, but somehow he knows where my cousin is? </em>War God Fang, is my cousin really in the Valiant Defenders barracks?


    If the young master says hes there, he must be there, Xu Ge replied. Stop doubting everything our young master says. Even if Lord Yuan isnt there now, he would be there by the time we arrive.


    Yuan Yu looked at Xu Ge with a mystified frown, but she didnt have much time to dwell on it as Fang Chen had already stood up and headed out. She quickly followed him.


    The Fang Manor was near the imperial city, so it didnt take long for the three of them to arrive at the entrance of the Valiant Defenders barracks. By a stroke of coincidence, they bumped into a group of Court of Great Brilliances officials there.


    Leading the group was Director Zhao, and he was apanied by a few rectifiers and around fifty constables. They were startled to see Yuan Yu, and their shock only deepened when they saw Fang Chen.


    <em>Why would a constable who has just gotten on the job be with War God Fang? </em>


    Many in the group began deducing their rtionship, and some even tried to look back to check if they had crossed Yuan Yu in recent days.


    War God Fang. Director Zhao politely sped his fist.


    Director Zhao, Fang Chen replied with a smile. What brings you here?


    Its shameful, but one of my rectifiers suddenly went missing. After days of investigation, I learned that there is a good chance hes in the Valiant Defenders barracks, so I came here to look into the matter, Director Zhao replied.


    Fang Chen nodded.


    It looked as if they were just having an idle chatter, but from the moment Director Zhao saw Fang Chen, he became certain that Yuan Zhuang was in the Valiant Defenders barracks.


    Yuan Yus eyes narrowed in astonishment. She recognized Director Zhao; it was her superiors superior. She couldnt believe that Director Zhaos investigation had led him to the same ce as well. <em>Doesnt this mean that Fang Chen urately deduced Yuan Zhuangs whereabouts just by silently thinking for two hours? Just how smart is this man? This is terrifying!</em>


    Just then, a centurion walked out and impatiently harrumphed at Director Zhao. The person youre looking for isnt in our barracks. Why would a rectifier from your Court of Great Brilliance be in our barracks? Look elsewhere instead!


    I have confirmed that Rectifier Yuan is in your barracks, so I came here to check if there have been any misunderstandings. Would you allow me to meet your chiliarch? Director Zhao replied courteously.


    Whats wrong? Is a centurion like me not worthy of speaking to you? the other party snapped. Why dont you weigh yourself before asking to meet our chiliarchs? Do you think our chiliarchs are so free to attend to your every whim? I already told you that the person youre looking for isnt in our barracks. Stop lingering here and leave!


    The centurion waved his hand as if driving off flies.


    One of the rectifiers couldnt stand how disrespectful the centurion was, and he blew his top. Audacious! Youre standing before our Court of Great Brilliances Director Zhao. How can you be so disrespectful to a higher-ranking official?


    The centurion burst intoughter. He nced at the rectifier and scoffed, Director? I have met some of the Vice Ministers in the past few years, and even generals would respectfully address us at our barracks. Is the Court of Great Brilliances director greater than those people? If Im not mistaken, its nothing more than a grade-5 official.


    Thats still two ranks higher than you! You Valiant Defenders are getting ahead of yourself! Unless you hand over Lord Yuan, we wont be leaving this ce today! that rectifier roared.


    Who dares to cause trouble at the Valiant Defenders barracks?


    Shh! They are from the Court of Great Brilliance.


    No wonder! Why would the Court of Great Brilliance suddenly mess with the Valiant Defenders though? The Valiant Defenders are not to be trifled with! some passers-by noticed the situation and whispered amongst themselves.


    The centurion felt like he had been humiliated. His face turned red, and he bellowed, Brothers, the Court of Great Brilliance are causing a ruckus on our turf. Lets capture all of them!


    Arge group of Valiant Defenders rushed out of the barracks, looking as if they would apprehend Director Zhao and the others. Director Zhaos rectifiers and constables didnt back down either. A fight broke out on both sides.


    Director Zhao watched the situation lividly. Secondster, he finally roared, Stop right now!


    The rectifiers and constables immediately halted their aggression, but the Valiant Defenders continued their attacks.


    Director Zhao sneered. He unleashed his inner ki and released a palm strike, which sent one of the Valiant Defenders flying. It was only upon that did the other Valiant Defenders halt their aggression. They could tell that Director Zhao was at Ki Explosion, and that they were no match for him.


    The Court of Great Brilliance is bing conceited. How dare you cause a ruckus here and hurt one of my centurions? a bellow echoed.


    A person charged out of the Valiant Defenders barracks and swiped his de at Director Zhao.


    Director Zhao was taken aback. The person attacking him was at mid Ki Explosion, whereas he was only at early Ki Explosion. It wouldnt be easy for him to deal with this attack.


    Xu Ge, Fang Chen ordered.


    Yes, young master. Xu Ge chuckled before charging forth with his sword.


    His strength clearly surpassed that of the other party, as he pushed the mid Ki Explosion Valiant Defender back by more than fifty meters with a single strike.


    Chiliarch Niu?! The Valiant Defenders were startled.


    Windcloud Sword Xu Ge?! Chiliarch Niu was stunned. He quickly noticed Fang Chen too, and his eyes widened in horror. He shoved aside the Valiant Defenders supporting him, marched up to Fang Chen, and sped his fist. Valiant Defender Chiliarch Niu Jue pays respect to War God Fang!


    <em>War God Fang?!</em>


    The Valiant Defenders were rmed too. The passers-by were taken aback as well. It was only then that they noticed Fang Chens presence, and their expressions turned weird.


    You look familiar, Fang Chen remarked.


    War God Fang, I used to be in your army. I had the honor of fighting alongside you, Niu Jue said with a voice quivering in excitement.


    The Valiant Defenders were baffled to see Niu Jues reaction. Thetter was the most hot-tempered chiliarch in their inner city barracks, and he spoke with confidence even when addressing the two Enforcement Envoys above him. Yet, his voice was quivering now?


    I see. Fang Chen nodded. The Court of Great Brilliances Director Zhao had a subordinate who recently went missing, and they found that hes in your barracks. What is your take?


    The Court of Great Brilliance? Niu Jue was bewildered. He nced at Director Zhao. Our Valiant Defenders wouldnt make a move on someone from the Court of Great Brilliance. Whats the name of the missing man? Ill see if I have an impression of him.


    His name is Yuan Zhuang. Hes a rectifier under mymand, Director Zhao replied.


    No, I dont have an impression of him. The rest of you? Niu Jue turned to the other Valiant Defenders. They shook their heads, expressing that they had no recollection of Yuan Zhuang.


    Lets head in first, Fang Chen said.


    Yes yes, of course! War God Fang, this way please. Niu Jue profusely nodded.

 Chapter 49: I’ll Execute Anyone Who Dares Stand in My Way

    Chapter 49: I¡¯ll Execute Anyone Who Dares Stand in My Way


    All kinds of gazes fell on Fang Chen and the others as soon as they stepped into the barracks. These eyes were filled with astonishment, curiosity, and fear.


    Niu Jue first led them to the front reception before ordering his subordinates to look through the case files to check if they had arrested Rectifier Yuan Zhuang in recent days.


    War God Fang, well know soon whether Lord Yuan is in the barracks or not, Niu Jue spoke in a respectful tone.


    Ill be counting on you, Chiliarch Niu. Fang Chen nodded with a smile.


    Yuan Yus nervousness intensified, as she began to worry that Yuan Zhuang wasnt here. Her cousin would be doomed if even Fang Chen and Director Zhao couldnt find his whereabouts.


    Soon, a centurion rushed in and sped his fist. Chiliarch Niu, I have already looked through the cases. We havent arrested any rectifiers from the Court of Great Brilliance in recent days.


    How is this Yuan Yu turned pale.


    This Niu Jue looked at Fang Chen with a bitter smile. War God Fang, could it be a misunderstanding? It doesnt seem that the rectifier is in our barracks.


    Bring us to your private prison, Fang Chen said.


    Niu Jue was stunned. Outsiders like Fang Chen werent allowed to enter their private prison. After some thought, he gritted his teeth and said, Pardon me, War God Fang, but I can only bring you and Director Zhao into our private prison at most.


    I understand. Fang Chen nodded.


    Niu Jue led Fang Chen and Director Zhao toward the private prison, but just as they reached the entrance, there was suddenly a bellow.


    Chiliarch Niu, what are you doing?


    A young man walked over under the apaniment of the Valiant Defenders. All of these Valiant Defenders were centurions and chiliarchs. Two of the centurions saw Fang Chen, and their faces warped in shock.


    Enforcement Envoy Liu, allow me to introduce you to War God Fang. War God Fang, this is our barracks Enforcement Envoy Liu, Niu Jue quickly introduced both sides to each other.


    Enforcement Envoy Liu nonchntly eyed Fang Chen. So its War God Fang. May I know what brought you here today?


    Im here to look for someone, Fang Chen replied.


    In our barracks? You must be pulling my leg. Enforcement Envoy Liu turned to Niu Jue and berated him, Shouldnt a chiliarch like you know the rules? How can you bring an outsider to our private prison? Youll be stripped of your uniform if ourmander learns about it!


    Niu Jue was initially startled, his face quickly reddened in anger. Lord Liu, War God Fang is here to look for someone. How can I defy him? Im just bringing him to our private prison to take a look. Or are you saying someone of War God Fangs stature is unqualified to see our private prison?


    Rules are rules. I remember His Majesty dering that War God Fang is forbidden from entering the imperial court or taking charge of an army ever again? That means that War God Fang is a civilian. What stature are you speaking of here? Enforcement Envoy Liu calmly said.


    The crowd was conflicted.


    It was true that Fang Chen was a civilian, but his massive contributions to the country couldnt be erased just like that, not to mention he had regained his martial cultivation. Just the move he had made on Greenpine Superior Dojo was enough to intimidate most into submission.


    Was it really that important whether Fang Chen had an official post or not?


    Lord Liu, are you saying that I cant enter this private prison by hook or by crook? Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    Enforcement Envoy Liu nodded. Im afraid its against the rules. War God Fang, I ask for your understanding regarding this matter.


    I dont mind. Bring him out then, Fang Chen said.


    Him? Who are you referring to? Enforcement Envoy Liu frowned in confusion.


    The Court of Great Brilliances Yuan Zhuang. You ordered your subordinates to bring him here to interrogate him. Lord Liu, you dont remember that? Fang Chenughed. He turned to the two centurions beside Enforcement Envoy Liu. You might not remember, but those two should. They are the ones in charge of executing the torture, after all.


    Director Zhao red at the two centurions. He was familiar with the torture used by the Valiant Defenders, which was why he knew the situation was not optimistic for Yuan Zhuang if they had started using torture on him.


    The two centurions turned as pale as a sheet of paper. <em>How does he know all of that? He even knows we were the ones who tortured Yuan Zhuang!</em>


    Niu Jue btedly realized that Fang Chen hadnt just stumbled into this matter; thetter had marched here knowing what happened. As someone familiar with Fang Chens means, he knew that there was a good chance Rectifier Yuan was really here.


    <em>But why did Enforcement Envoy Liu arrest a Court of Great Brilliances rectifier? He even kept it from me. Is there something deeper involved here?</em>


    War God Fang, dont speak nonsense, Enforcement Envoy Liu replied impassively.


    Xu Ge, bring him out. If anyone stands in your path, kill them. Ill personally make a trip to the imperial pce to exin things to His Majesty afterward, Fang Chen ordered.


    Yes, young master. Xu Ge nodded.


    He began marching toward the door of the private prison.


    None of the Valiant Defenders in the vicinity dared to stop him. They had already recognized him to be one of the top ten pinnacle Ki Explosion martial artists in the capital, Windcloud Sword Xu Ge!


    In the entire Valiant Defenders, there were no more than one or two people who could match him, and none of them were present here, for their official positions were even higher than that of Enforcement Envoy Liu!


    Stop him! Enforcement Envoy Liu roared.


    His close aides exchanged looks, only to timidly lower their heads right after. They dared not to kick up a fuss before someone of Fang Chens stature. <em>Well die in vain if we stand up to Xu Ge here. Nothing will happen to Fang Chen, and Fang Chen will protect Xu Ge.</em>


    You all! Enforcement Envoy Liu was so angry that he nearly coughed blood.


    He had spent so many years raising these subordinates, only for these cowards to lie t when he needed them to make a move!


    The Valiant Defenders stood awkwardly still as Xu Ge passed by them.


    MInutester, Xu Ge supported a limping Yuan Zhuang out of the private prison.


    Yuan Yu burst into tears upon seeing his state.


    Yuan Zhuangs condition was so bad that there wasnt any unharmed patch of skin on him, except for his face. Even his fingers were bleeding profusely from having his fingernails plucked off.


    Youre too much!


    The Court of Great Brilliances rectifiers red at the Valiant Defenders. Yuan Zhuangs subordinate constables were so angry that their eyes could spit fire.


    The majority of the Valiant Defenders were dazed. They were unaware of this matter.


    Only Enforcement Envoy Liu and his close aides were aware of this matter, but they maintained nonchnt faces and didnt say a word.


    Niu Jues face quickly darkened as well.


    Enforcement Envoy Liu, I demand an exnation for this matter, Director Zhao, who had been silent all this while, finally spoke up.


    An exnation? When has our Valiant Defenders ever needed to exin ourselves to others? This man is a criminal we have arrested. If you try to take him away without permission, thatd be the same as raiding our prison. Its an offense punishable by decapitation.


    Enforcement Envoy Liu turned to Fang Chen with cold eyes. War God Fang, I hope you arent nning to break thew.

 Chapter 50: You’ll Be the One Humiliated

    Chapter 50: You¡¯ll Be the One Humiliated


    Director Zhao and the others clenched their fists in frustration. Now that Enforcement Envoy Liu had brought thew into the picture, it would be harder for them to get Yuan Zhuang out of here.


    Enforcement Envoys had the authority to arrest officials. On top of that, the Valiant Defenders was an autonomous organization outside of the Six Bureaus, and they reported directly to the emperor. This meant that they were only ountable to the emperor.


    Seeing how the crowd had gone silent, Enforcement Envoy Liu chuckled. War Go Fang, why dont you leave the criminal and walk out of this ce with your dignity. It wont look good on anyone if this matter blows up.


    Youre wrong. Youre the only one who will be humiliated, Fang Chen replied.


    He suddenly flitted up to Enforcement Envoy Liu and dished out a resounding p that sent thetter flying over a distance of twenty meters.


    None of the Valiant Defenders could react on time. By the time they realized what had happened, it was already toote. Enforcement Envoy Liu had already crashed heavily into the ground, and his cheeks swelled up at a visible pace.


    Fast!


    The crowd was taken aback. This strike left no room for doubt that Fang Chen had indeed regained his cultivation. The rectifiers and constables from the Court of Great Brilliance were overjoyed to see Enforcement Envoy Liu being humbled.


    How dare you attack me in the barracks? Fang Chen, are you staging a revolt?! Enforcement Envoy Liu held his cheek as he red at Fang Chen in resentment and humiliation.


    I have struck plenty of higher-ranking officials than you over the years, but no one has ever used me of staging a revolt before. Fang Chenughed. Enforcement Envoy Liu, do your part and dont mess with me again. It wont end with just a p next time.


    Fang Chen, do you think you call the shots in Great Xia? You might have made huge contributions to Great Xia in the past, but it was all canceled out by your defeat in the Three Realms Mountain! Enforcement Envoy Liu roared. His Majesty spared you out of the kindness of his heart, but instead of reflecting on your behavior, you interfered in the Valiant Defenders affairs. Do you have any respect for His Majesty?


    I have utmost respect for His Majesty. Fang Chen sped his fist in the direction of the imperial pce before looking back at Enforcement Envoy Liu. But who do you think you are to use His Majestys name to suppress me? You seem to have your head in the clouds.


    Enforcement Envoy Liu was rendered speechless, and his face turned livid.


    No one in the crowd dared to take Fang Chen as a mere blind man.


    Fang Chen might have gone silent for five years, but his innate ferocity had not receded in the least. If anything, it had grown sharper, though it was manifesting in a more concealed manner.


    Niu Jue felt it the most vividly of those present. If Fang Chen previously felt like an insurmountable mountain, he was more like the treacherous tides of a vast ocean hidden beneath a calm surface now.


    Hahaha! I would have never expected War God Fang to pay a visit to my barracks. I apologize for my subordinatesck of etiquette. They neglected to inform me, so I ended up arrivingte. Do forgive me for that, War God Fang.


    There was heartyughter, and a middle-aged man dressed in a flood dragon robe walked in with a group of Valiant Defenders. His strides were wide, and energy cloaked his body. He was a Ki Control martial artist, and a fairly strong one at that.


    Themander of the inner citys Valiant Defenders, Xiao Shence!


    Paying respect to themander!


    All of the Valiant Defenders bowed to Xiao Shence as they heaved a sigh of relief. They were d that themander was here to hold the fort today, or else they would be utterly humiliated by War God Fang today.


    The Court of Great Brilliances rectifiers revealed grim looks. Only Director Zhao remainedposed despite standing in the presence of Xiao Shence.


    Big brother Xiao, youre being too distant by saying those words, Fang Chen replied.


    The crowd was stunned. <em>Fang Chen and Xiao Shence know each other?</em>


    Enforcement Envoy Lius heart grew heavy. He was certain there was no way Fang Chen and Xiao Shence could have been acquainted, considering Xiao Shences background. <em></em>


    Im ttered that youre still willing to call me big brother Xiao. Haa, little brother Fang, I hope you dont me me for not visiting you in the Fang Manor for thest five years, Xiao Shence said with a sigh.


    The Valiant Defenders has a lot on its hands. Big brother Xiao, as themander of the Valiant Defenders, is bound to be busy. I understand, Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    Thats good to hear. Xiao Shence nodded. He looked at Enforcement Envoy Liu, followed by Yuan Zhuang, before suddenly sighing. Little brother Fang, I have already heard about what happened. Enforcement Envoy Liu has gone through proper procedures and filed the relevant documents, so Ill be put in a spot if you take away that man just like that. How will others view our Valiant Defenders if news spreads? I wont be able to face His Majesty either.


    A triumphant glint shed across Enforcement Envoy Lius eyes.


    Those from the Court of Great Brilliance turned grim, as they could tell that Xiao Shence was disinclined to free Yuan Zhuang.


    Yuan Yu was nervous. Yuan Zhuang was so severely injured that he could hardly open his mouth. He wouldnt survive for long if he was left here.


    I have already considered this on your behalf, big brother Xiao, Fang Chen said. He turned toward the barracks entrance and called out, Fifth King.


    <em>Fifth King? </em>Xiao Shence and the others were startled. They turned their heads over, and the Fifth King was indeed here.


    Those from the Court of Great Brilliance were overjoyed. The Fifth King was their court master, their highest superior. It couldnt be a coincidence that he was here today.


    Fang Chen, you found him? I told you. How could a living person abruptly vanish into thin air? the Fifth King said with a chuckle. He then turned to Xiao Shence with cold eyes, Xiao Shence, how brazen you have be to capture my man without informing me, the court master?


    I was nning to, but I was dyed by some matters, Enforcement Envoy Liu eximed.


    Who are you? Scram aside! The Fifth King red at Enforcement Envoy Liu.


    Enforcement Envoy Liu felt humiliated, and it further maddened him that he couldnt even retort.


    Enforcement Envoy Liu could have been more meticulous in how he handled the matter, but he has gone through the proper procedures, so Xiao Shence replied with a smile.


    Our Court of Great Brilliance has also gone through the proper procedures. Look at it yourself. Someone reported Yuan Zhuang for receiving a bribe, and we have issued an arrest warrant for him months ago. We were just dyed by other matters, but your people got in ahead of us. The Fifth King tossed Xiao Shence a case scroll. Are you done looking at it? Our case predates yours, right? No arguments? Well be taking him with us then.


    He turned to Director Zhao and bellowed, What are you waiting for? Take him!


    Yes, court master! Director Zhao replied with a sped fist. He ordered his subordinates to receive Yuan Zhuang from Xu Ge and Yuan Yus hands before taking their leave.


    How is it? Are you done looking through it? the Fifth King asked Xiao Shence.


    Looks like its indeed a misunderstanding, Xiao Shence replied before returning the case scroll to the Fifth King.


    Best to avoid such misunderstandings, dont you think? I dont have a good temper. If I ever drop dead from anger one day, my emperor brother might just lop off your head, the Fifth King remarked. He then turned to Fang Chen and asked, Shall we go?


    Of course, Fifth King, Fang Chen replied with a nod.


    The crowd couldnt help but notice that the two of them walked side by side when they left.


    Enforcement Envoy Lius face turned livid. He didnt expect Yuan Zhuang to be taken away just like that.


    Xiao Shence saw off Fang Chen and the others before he turned to Enforcement Envoy Liu and sneered, Make sure to be more thorough next time, or else things will end up as they did today. Not only was I unable to stand up for you, but I even embarrassed myself too. Look for meter. I want to know why you arrested Yuan Zhuang!


    Yes Enforcement Envoy Liu softly replied.


    <strong>Starves China etiquette trivia:</strong>


    Its tradition for the higher-ranking individual to walk in front, while the lower-ranking individual walks behind. The fact that Fang Chen and the Fifth King walks side by side means that they view each other to be equals.

 Chapter 51: Hooked

    Chapter 51: Hooked


    Upon leaving the Valiant Defenders barracks, the Fifth King first checked the surroundings before asking, What happened here?


    Yuan Zhuang investigated a case that implicated many influential people. The inner citys Enforcement Envoy Liu should be one of them, Fang Chen replied.


    Is it a huge case? The Fifth King was slightly disconcerted. Dont cause any more trouble. My old bones cant take it.


    Dont worry, its a matter beyond your reach. You just have to asionally cooperate with me. You need not worry about the rest, Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    The Fifth King eyed Fang Chen. You should already know that the emperor sees you as an eyesore. Think twice before you do anything.


    With that, the Fifth King took his leave.


    Fang Chen headed to the Shadow Courtyard with Xu Ge.


    It didnt take long for Tie Ma and the others to appear. All of the Shadow Guards, except for those who couldnte out in the day, were gathered here. All in all, there were thirty people.


    This is the Bone Tempering Pill. Ill be giving one to each of you.


    Fang Chen gave each of the Shadow Guards a Bone Tempering Pill. The Shadow Guards stared at their Bone Tempering Pill in curiosity.


    Young master, what does this Bone Tempering Pill do? Xu Ge asked.


    Im not sure either, but it should be beneficial to your martial cultivation, Fang Chen replied.


    <em>Beneficial to our martial cultivation? </em>The Shadow Guards were revved up.


    Even the stoic Tie Ma carefully examined the Bone Tempering Pill, as he thought about the trip they made to Dragonback Lane not too long ago.


    <em>This Bone Tempering Pill is likely something our young master acquired from Dragonback Lane. Itd be anything but ordinary.</em>


    Xu Ge, Ill leave it to you to pass the Bone Tempering Pills to those who arent here, Fang Chen instructed.


    Xu Ge nodded.


    Without any hesitation, Xu Ge popped his Bone Tempering Pill into his mouth and swallowed it. The crowd was taken aback. They hadnt expected Xu Ge to swallow it on the spot.


    Why are you so surprised? If I dont eat it now, what if I lose the pill? Xu Ge scoffed.


    <em>Hes right. What if we lose the pill?</em>


    The others, including Tie Ma, popped the Bone Tempering Pill into their mouths too. Soon, the effects of the Bone Tempering Pill started showing.


    Out of curiosity, Fang Chen drew out his soul to take a closer look.


    The vitality of those who swallowed the Bone Tempering Pill surged within a short period of time, and their inner ki swiftly expanded.


    Xu Ge was at pinnacle Ki Explosion, but shortly after consuming the Bone Tempering Pill, his inner ki began approaching the level of Ki Control. All of a sudden, his face tightened up, and a white aura burst forth and shrouded his body.


    Ive reached third stage Ki Control?!


    Xu Ge was ted. To verify that he had truly reached Ki Control, he drew out a sliver of his inner ki, and it obediently coiled around his finger.


    Tie Ma was surprised by Xu Ges breakthrough, but the same situation was happening to him too. His inner ki swiftly bulked up, pushing his martial cultivation up to mid Ki Control.


    It should have taken him three to five years of training to build up sufficient momentum for a breakthrough, but a single Bone Tempering Pill had offset that for him!


    The others enjoyed a breakthrough of some degree too. Some advanced from mid Ki Condensation all the way to pinnacle Ki Condensation. Some overcame their bottleneck and rose from pinnacle Ki Condensation to early Ki Explosion


    In less than two hours, Fang Chens Shadow Guards had grown two to three times stronger than before.


    Fang Chen returned his soul to his body and smiled at the crowd. How are you feeling?


    Young master, I feel terrific! I thought I would never reach Ki Explosion due to mycking talent, but I was able to ovee my bottleneck thanks to your Bone Tempering Pill!


    Young master, we are grateful for your divine medicine!


    The crowd was exhrated.


    Xu Ge was so excited that he began dancing around the room. The only one who remained poise was Tie Ma, but even so, he had a smile that indicated that he was in a good mood.


    Youre not mute, Xu Ge. What are you posing around for? I cant see it, Fang Chen said.


    Xu Ge scratched his head and smiled sheepishly. Young master, Im just too excited. I feel like Im in a dream. I never thought I, Xu Ge, would ever rise to the ranks of Ki Control.


    Its only Ki Control. You havent reached Ki Manifestation, and even so, youd still be at Human Profound realm. Whats there to be excited about? Fang Chen smiled. Learn from Tie Ma. Hes much calmer than you.


    I cant learn that. Xu Ge secretly rolled his eyes. <em>That zombie face of his is the result of him being undercover as a Hidden Dragon for many years. I cant learn it even if I want to.</em>


    Has there been any movements on Vice Minister of Rites Qin Dongs side over thest few days? Fang Chen asked.


    A Shadow Guard dressed as a vendor reported, Young master, Qin Dong has been regrly attending imperial morning assemblies. He would asionally work in the Bureau of Rites, and he would spend the rest of his time in his manor. Theres nothing amiss about his movements.


    What about Ye Qinghe? Fang Chen asked again.


    He has been spending his time socializing with young masters at the Great Xia River. The mostmon ce he goes to is Jade Fairy Boat. Sometimes hed bring someone there; sometimes hed go alone; sometimes hed go with the crown prince.


    Speaking of which, young master, Ye Qinghes martial cultivation is surprisingly high. He nearly discovered me thest time I followed him. I suspect he might be at Ki Explosion.


    I see. Fang Chen nodded. Investigate how his martial cultivation advanced so quickly. I dont remember him being that talented as a martial artist.


    Yes, young master.


    What about Li Huafeng? Has he made any movements? Fang Chen asked again.


    Li Huafeng paid a visit to the Valiant Defenders barracks.


    Li Huafeng, Enforcement Envoy Liu, Vice Minister Qin, and Xiao Shence They are our key suspects. We should be able to figure out who the other five Blood Spirit Cultists are through them. Fang Chen narrowed his eyes.


    Two hourster, the Shadow Guards finished their report and scattered with satisfied hearts.


    Xu Ge had been dispatched to deliver the Bone Tempering Pills to the other Shadow Guards, leaving Fang Chen alone in the Shadow Courtyard.


    Fang Chen took out the scarecrow and infused spirit ki into it. The scarecrow transformed into a humanlike, middle-aged man.


    Head to Vice Minister Qins manor and ry some words for me, Fang Chen instructed.


    The middle-aged man immediately made his way over.


    Fang Chen drew out his soul and waited at Vice Minister Qins manor.


    Qin Dong had gotten off the imperial morning assembly and was practicing calligraphy in his study room. It could be that he had something vexing on his mind, but he wasnt satisfied with the words he wrote. He crumpled the paper up and tossed them to the side.


    <em>Creak.</em> A person pushed the door open and entered.


    Without raising his head, Qin Dong bellowed, I said that no one is to disrupt me while Im practicing my calligraphy!


    The person ignored those words and walked up to Qin Dong.


    Qin Dong raised his head, and his anger dissipated as soon as he saw the middle-aged man. His face turned anxious as he asked, Have you heard? Fang Chen killed more than a hundred cavalrymen of Longdu Viscount Zhou Xiu at Great Xias borders! He also rescued Yuan Zhuang from the barracks. If he continues following the trail, hell eventually find out that its me. Id be doomed then!


    The middle-aged man was none other than the scarecrow. Judging from Qin Dongs behavior, he must know about its association with the old woman.


    Something happened in the Blood Spirit Cult. Well have to back out of Great Xia in the future. All the best to you, the middle-aged man said before taking his leave.


    Qin Dong was stunned. It took a moment before he snapped out of it and chased after the middle-aged man, but thetter was already nowhere to be seen.


    How could this be Qin Dongs face turned pale. <em>If others find out what Ive done, without the backing of the Blood Spirit Cult, my entire n will be executed!</em>


    Secondster, Qin Dong thought of something and ordered his subordinates to prepare a carriage.


    Seeing that, Fang Chen knew that the fish had been hooked. All he had to do now was to slowly reel it in.

 Chapter 52: Compassion Hall

    Chapter 52: Compassion Hall


    In the southern suburbs of Great Xias capital was a Compassion Hall that took in orphans and helpless elders. There were several such Compassion Halls in the capital, which was why there were no beggars to be seen on the streets.


    These Compassion Halls were sustained by donationsing from wealthy families in the capital. For instance, the Fang Manor would donate a hundred taels to the Compassion Halls every year.


    A carriage slowed to a halt before the Compassion Hall.


    Qin Dong, who had changed into another set of robes, anxiously got off the carriage and entered the Compasion Hall.


    Master Qin, youre here. This way, please, the Compassion Halls manager warmly weed Qin Dong.


    Qin Dongs face darkened. I want to meet Master Xu.


    Master Xu is in the midst of his training. Im afraid The Compassion Halls manager was put in a difficult spot.


    Training? Qin Dong was taken aback. A hint of delight slipped onto his face. Master Xu hasnt left yet?


    Indeed, Master Xu hasnt left yet. The Compassion Halls manager was perplexed.


    Thats wonderful. Ill wait for Master Xu to be done with his training then, Qin Dong replied.


    Just then, a ck figure slowly wriggled its way over. It was a five-year-old child who had lost both his legs and only had a single arm left.


    Qin Dong squatted in front of the child and asked with a smile. Lil Five, have you eaten today?


    Uncle Qin, I have eaten!


    The child raised his head and looked at Qin Dong with eyes that seemed to glow. Despite having lost three limbs, he still radiated a satisfied smile. He didnt have to starve or suffer the cold ever since arriving at the Compassion Hall. This ce was like a paradise to him.


    Thats good to hear. Qin Dong smiled with a nod. He turned to the manager and asked, Has anyone donated any money today?


    The manager of the Verdant Apothecary Hall ising, so I had Lil Five wait here, the Compassion Halls manager replied with a nod.


    <em>Verdant Apothecary Hall?</em> Qin Dong had never heard of this organization before. Just as he was about to ask about it, he suddenly heard an exmation.


    Young miss, this child only has a single arm left!


    It was Verdant Apothecary Halls Fang Qingyao and her maid. The person who eximed earlier was the maid. Fang Qingyao looked at Lil Five with sympathetic eyes.


    The Compassion Halls manager walked over to wee them. Miss Fang, pleasee in. Allow me to introduce you to Master Qin. Hes here to visit the orphans and offer donations too.


    <em>Shes not bad. </em>Qin Dongs eyes lit up with lust when he saw Fang Qingyaos beautiful face.


    Fang Qingyao politely directed a nod at Qin Dong before squatting before Lil Five to ask how he had lost his limbs.


    Lil Five innocently replied, An uncle told me that my siblings and I wont have to starve anymore if they cut my limbs off.


    How can there be such a brute?! Fang Qingyaos maid cried out.


    Fang Qingyao fell silent. She rubbed Lil Fives head before she turned to the Compassion Halls manager and said, Manager He, our Verdant Apothecary Hall will donate five hundred taels.


    Young miss, werent you nning on donating two hundred taels? Fang Qingyaos maid was startled.


    Fang Qingyao nced at her maid. Our Verdant Apothecary Hall doesnt make a lot of money, but we can afford five hundred taels. Compassion Hall takes in orphans and provides them with food, clothes, and a shelter. We cant do that, so the least we can do is to help in whatever way we can.


    Allow me to thank you on behalf of our Compassion Halls orphans, Miss Fang! Manager Hes eyes lit up.


    Qin Dong stroked his beard and said, Miss Fang is truly kind. Thered be a ce for all orphans if all of Great Xias merchants were as kind as you.


    Youre too kind, Master Qin. I am only doing my part, Fang Qingyao replied. She turned to Manager He and asked, Manager He, would it be possible for my maid and I to look around the ce?


    Please feel free, but Id have to ask you to steer clear of the inner residence. Thats where Master Xu is currently meditating. It wouldnt be good to disturb him. Manager He nodded with a smile.


    Are you talking about the high monk who came to Great Xia a few years back, Master Xu Hui? My father has admired Master Xu for a long time now. Im surprised to hear that he has taken up residence here! Fang Qingyao was astonished.


    A few years back, a high monk appeared in Great Xia and traveled its every nook and cranny within a short period of time. Wherever he went, people sang praises of him. He eventually went to the capital and settled in the famous monastery, Temple of Enlightenment.


    Many came to the capital in hopes of meeting Master Xu, but very few were lucky enough to be granted an audience with him.


    Indeed. Master Xu said that he can feel mortal suffering here, and it helps him better understand dharmic texts, Manager He replied with a smile.


    As expected of a high monk, Fang Qingyao replied admiringly.


    After a short chat, she took her maid and Lil Five with her to look around the Compassion Hall.


    Thatdy is rather interesting. Qin Dong looked at Fang Qingyaos silhouette contemtively.


    Around fifteen minutester, Manager He brought Qin Dong to the inner residence, where an aged monk slowly walked out and looked at him.


    Master Xu. Qin Dong quickly sped his fist, knowing that this monk had quite a background. Even the old woman who previously lived at his residence showed this monk utmost respect.


    Vice Minister Qin, what brings you here today? Master Xu Hui asked.


    Master Xu, Goldflower Granny said the Blood Spirit Cult is retreating from Great Xia, Qin Dong said.


    Master Xu Hui was startled. He asked with a frown, Did she tell you in person?


    Thats right No, wait, she didnt. Its that subordinate of hers Qin Dong initially nodded, only to change his word shortly after.


    Subordinate? Master Xu Hui quickly understood who Qin Dong was referring to. <em>She sent the Greenwood Puppet instead of rying it in person?</em>


    He keenly sensed that something was amiss. He thought about how Daoist Xue had gone missing for some time now, and his face suddenly stiffened up. <em>Could it be that a cultivator has uncovered our trail?</em>


    Master Xu, is this matter true? But who will clean up this mess if you suddenly leave? There are still quite a few people imprisoned there. We need to dispose of their bodies without anyone noticing. Otherwise, my n and I will be executed Qin Dong anxiously spoke up.


    Since the Blood Spirit Cult has sent us to Great Xia, we wont leave until we gather ten Blood Spirit Divine Pills. Something might have happened to Goldflower Granny, Master Xu Hui said. Senior Bei has something up and brought the other members with him. Its unlikely theyll return anytime soon. To be safe, you should stay here for the time being.


    Fang Chen watched this exchange from the sky. <em>So that scarecrow is called Greenwood Puppet.</em>

 Chapter 53: Daoist

    Chapter 53: Daoist


    To think the famous high monk in Great Xias capital is a Blood Spirit Cultist. Unlike Daoist Xue and Goldflower Granny, who hid in the shadows, Monk Xu Hui maintained a high profile and spread his name far and wide in Great Xia. Even my parents have paid him a visit back then in hopes he might have a way for me to recover my martial cultivation


    Fang Chens expression turned grim. His Shadow Guards had operated in the capital for many years, but he had never noticed the existence of the Blood Spirit Cult.


    If Monk Xu Hui had made a move on his parents back then, he would have been helpless to stop him.


    Master Xu, what should we do? Could Fang Chen have caught onto us? Qin Dong anxiously fidgeted as he asked.


    Fang Chen? Master Xu Huiughed. You are scared of a fangless tiger? His parents once came to me pleading for my help. I could have easily restored his martial cultivation back then. His parents must have found some kind of spirit herb for him.


    Master Xu, why dont you make a move and remove this thorn in my back? Id be able to move freely this way. I suspect Fang Chen has set his eyes on me in recent days, Qin Dong said.


    Goldflower recklessly fed on that maid in your residence; its no wonder others are suspicious. However, those snooping around are of no threat to our people. The only thing we need to be concerned about is whether theres a cultivator on our tail. As for Fang Chen, theres no benefit to killing him. Rather, he better serves our aim alive, Master Xu Hui calmly replied.


    He turned to the Compassion Halls Manager He and ordered, Bring them over to calm Vice Minister Qin down. Hell be spending a few days here; theyll entertain him well.


    Yes, Master Xu, Manager He replied before taking his leave.


    Qin Dongs expression flickered. Master Xu, this


    Vice Minister Qin, serve our Blood Spirit Cult well. Your loyalty will be rewarded, Master Xu Hui said with a smile before returning to the inner residence.


    Shortly after, Fang Qingyao and her maid, all tied up, were brought before Qin Dong.


    Manager He, what are you doing?! a red-faced Fang Qingyao sternly bellowed.


    Master Qin, I can tell that you admire Miss Fang. Why dont we have Miss Fang apany you for the next few days? Manager Hepletely ignored Fang Qingyao and instead fawned on Qin Dong.


    Qin Dong nced at Fang Qingyao before stroking his beard and nodding. Id appreciate that. This maid also looks not too bad, so Ill keep her here too.


    Master Qin?! Fang Qingyao stared at Qin Dong in disbelief. She couldnt believe this righteous-looking middle-aged man actually colluded with the Compassion Halls manager to humiliate the two of them!


    Miss Fang, you can only me yourself foring at a bad time, Qin Dong remarked.


    The Compassion Hall is a ce to save those in need. How could you Fang Qingyaos mind was in disarray, as she struggled to make sense of the situation.


    Master Qin, this way please, Manager He said with a smile as he gestured for his subordinates to take Fang Qingyao and her maid to a nearbypartment room.


    Qin Dong waved his sleeves and followed along.


    A cold glint shed across Fang Chens eyes. He was about to return to his body when he saw two figures flipping across the wall to roar at Manager He and hisckeys, Put those twodies down right now!


    The crowd was stunned. They turned their gaze over and saw a gray-robed daoist and a fair-skinned nun.


    Who dares to trespass on our Compassion Hall! Manager Hes face darkened.


    Qin Dong hurriedly raised his sleeves to cover his face before panickedly taking cover behind one of the Compassion Hallsckeys. He was afraid that someone would recognize him.


    Save us! Fang Qingyaos maid yelled. Please, save our young miss!


    Dont worry. You can be assured Ill save you and your young miss, the gray-robed daoist spoke with a righteous voice. He turned to the little nun and said, See, Little Abbess! I told you that our Eight Trigrams Sects Omen Reading isnt just a sham. Theres simply too much blood omen here; there has to be something weird going on here!


    Q-quickly save them! the little nun stuttered.


    Ill save them, but Little Abbess, you have to promise me to be my cultivation partner afterward! How does that sound? The gray-robed daoist giggled.


    The little nuns face turnedpletely red, as she found herself at a loss. S-save them first!


    Fine, Ill show you my means!


    With a heartyugh, the gray-robed man whipped out a wooden sword and pointed it at Manager He. The wooden sword came to life and flew toward the crowd.


    Manager He and the others were startled. <em>What kind of means is this?</em>


    Fang Qingyao and her maid were overjoyed. <em>This daoist isnt an ordinary person. Were saved!</em>


    See, Vice Minister Qin. I told you a cultivator has set his eyes on us but they are mere third stage Ki Refinement and second stage Ki Refinement cultivators. They couldnt have dealt with Goldflower and Daoist Xue.


    Master Xu Hui appeared once more. A golden bowl flew out from his palm and smashed the wooden sword into pieces. Seven daosoul imprints could be vaguely seen on the golden bowl as it returned to Master Xu Huis hand.


    Seven daosoul imprints?! Blood seeped from the lips of the gray-robed daoist as his eyes widened in disbelief. He dazedly stared at his shattered wooden sword before crying tragically, My artifact! I had to beg desperately to acquire this artifact


    Of course, the gray-robed daoist knew this wasnt the time to be feeling sorry for his artifact. Master Xu Hui emanated an aura that sent shivers down his spine; it was a powerful cultivator he was up against here!


    At the very least, Master Xu Hui had to be at fifth stage Ki Refinement.


    In view of that, the gray-robed daoist immediately grabbed the little nun and attempted to run. However, the golden bowl rammed into him at a fast speed, sending him flying twenty meters across the air before crashing heavily into the ground.


    The little nun wasnt able to react in time and was sent flying too.


    Fang Qingyao and her maid stared at this scene in a daze. They thought that they were saved, but who could have thought that their savior would be defeated in a sh?


    Fang Qingyao struggled to twist her neck toward Master Xu Hui, her eyes reflecting her disbelief. She couldnt believe Great Xias renowned high monk was actually such a person!


    Shortly after, the gray-robed daoist and the little nun were tightly bound too.


    Little Abbess, I brought danger upon you this time, the gray-robed daoist said with a pale face.


    Speak. Who sent you here? You must have considerable backing to dare make a move against our Blood Spirit Cult, Master Xu Hui walked up to them and cidly asked.


    <em>Blood Spirit Cult?! </em>


    Goosebumps covered the gray-robed daoists and the little nuns bodies. Even the innocent little nun understood the weight behind the Blood Spirit Cult!


    That was a famous demonic sect known for their cruel and domineering means in the world of cultivation! Orthodox cultivators had been trying to subdue them, but to little avail due to how elusive they were.


    Blood Spirit Cult? I have never heard of it before. There must be a misunderstanding here. Elder, I didnt know this was your turf. On the ount that we are all cultivators, wont you spare our lives? the gray-robed daoist asked with feigned confusion.


    Master Xu Hui scoffed, The blood in your veins nearly froze when you heard me say Blood Spirit Cult, but youre feigning ignorance right now?


    Elder, I was wrong! Wont you spare us, on the ount that were peers? The gray-robed daoist dropped his act and broke down into tears.

 Chapter 54: Master, Do You Think the Buddha Can Enlighten You?

    Chapter 54: Master, Do You Think the Buddha Can Enlighten You?


    I am a monk, whereas you are a daoist. How are we peers? Master Xu Hui asked with an ambiguous smile.


    He had only kept the two of them alive because he wanted to fish out information from them. Given their cultivation, he didnt think they could have dealt with Goldflower and Daoist Xue.


    Those who embrace Buddhism dont discriminate! Elder, I even tried to get a cultivationpanion to further my study of Buddhism, but this Little Abbess keeps turning me down, the gray-robed daoist said.


    The little nuns face turned red. <em>That daoist is saying such words despite the situation were in!</em>


    This Little Abbess does look pretty. Master Xu Hui nced at the little nun and smiled. He turned his attention back to the gray-robed daoist and said, Ill let the two of you go if you speak the truth, or else Ill be the one to be her cultivation partner.


    <em>Hes truly a demon from the Blood Spirit Cult. Hes despicable despite being a Buddhist monk, </em>the gray-robed daoist sneered in his mind. On the surface, he put on a bitter smile and replied, Elder, can you be clearer with your words? Im afraid Im not sure what youre asking about


    What an obstinate one you are. Since thats the case, Ill send you on your way to the Three Pure Ones, Master Xu Hui calmly said.


    The golden bowl slowly rose to the sky. If it fell right now, the gray-robed daoist would have his head smashed into bits!


    What kind of means is that Could it be that Master Xu Hui is a Ki Manifestation martial artist? Fang Qingyao was dazed.


    The exchange between Master Xu Hui and the gray-robed daoist was short, but the means they had disyed were baffling. How did the golden bowl float in the sky without anything holding it up?


    Is Master Xu Hui here? a voice echoed.


    The crowd was taken aback. <em>Whos joining in themotion now?</em>


    Vice Minister Qin Dong gasped in shock when he saw who was here. In contrast, Fang Qingyao and her maid were overjoyed. They tried to shout, but someone sped their mouths shut.


    The gray-robed daoist saw a blind young man slowly making his way over and roared, Get lost, blind man. We arent seeing any guests today!


    He then turned to Master Xu Hui and said with a fawning smile, Elder, our affairs here have nothing to do with that outsider. Lets pay him no heed. His lifeless eyes show that hes blind. Hes not worth our time.


    Shut your mouth, Master Xu Hui said.


    The gray-robed daoist quickly sealed his mouth. Seeing how Fang Chen continued to linger in the area, he cursed in his heart: <em>I did everything I can to help you, but you insisted on barging in here. I cant help someone who insists on courting his doom. </em>


    Benefactor Fang, how do you know Im in this Compassion Hall? Master Xu Hui asked as he walked over to wee Fang Chen.


    Vice Minister Qin Dong suddenly remembered Fang Chen was blind, and Master Xu Huis presence also greatly reassured him. That alleviated his fear, and his tensed facial muscles rxed a little.


    This isnt good! War God Fang is in danger!


    Fang Qingyaos face turned pale. She tried her best to remind him, but Manager Hesckey covered her mouth so tightly that she could hardly breathe, let alone warn Fang Chen.


    She could only watch helplessly as Master Xu Hui approached Fang Chen a step at a time.


    Master Xu Hui is here. Im relieved. I wish to seek your advice. I have been too bloodthirsty in recent days, and Im not sure how I can curb it, Fang Chen said.


    I have heard. Benefactor Fang, you massacred all of Greenpines martial artists in the capital, taking over a thousand lives in the span of a day. It must have been hard to sleep with so much blood on your hands, Master Xu Hui replied.


    <em>Whats this fellows background? A thousand lives?! Is he yet another demon? </em>The gray-robed daoist was bbergasted.


    The little nun was taken aback too. The young man before her was suave and dignified, and he gave off a schrly air that made him seem harmless


    Yes, it has been a struggle to fall asleep in recent nights. Fang Chen sighed deeply.


    Allow this humble monk to recite a sutra for you. May Buddha resolve the sins you carry on your shoulders, Master Xu Hui said.


    If I may ask, can Buddha resolve the sins you carry on your shoulders too? Fang Chen asked.


    Master Xu Huis face darkened. Before he could say a word, there was a sh of lightning, and before he knew it, he was lying on the ground with a charred body emitting white smoke.


    Domineering lightning ki had barged into his meridians and were wreaking havoc, making it impossible for him to channel his spirit ki. As a result, he was rendered powerless.


    <em>As I thought. A Purple Lightning Talisman made out of spirit materials is far stronger. If the Purple Lightning Talismans I previously made are low-grade, the recent few should at least be at mid-grade,</em> Fang Chen thought.


    Master Xu Hui was much stronger than Goldflower Granny and Daoist Xue, likely at fifth stage Ki Refinement or even sixth stage. Even so, he was helpless before the prowess of a mid-grade Purple Lightning Talisman.


    This was a glimpse into how formidable the Three Thousand Dao Gate was. Even a talisman intended for their initiates already wielded such terrifying prowess.


    The crowd was stunned, as they couldnt believe what they had just witnessed. This was even more so for Vice Minister Qin Dong. His legs lost all strength, and he fell on his bum. He stared at Fang Chen with eyes filled with nothing but fear.


    This The gray-robed daoist widened his eyes.


    The little nun gasped as she stared at Fang Chen in a daze.


    Manager He from the Compassion Hall was at a loss. He had always seen Master Xu Hui to be an invincible person, given his mystical means, yet thetter was defeated in the blink of an eye.


    Sss!


    A momentter, Manager He btedly realized something and stared at Fang Chen in shock. <em>Great Xias War God Fang is more terrifying than I thought. Even Master Xu Hui isnt a match for him!</em>


    For years, he had seen the disdain on Master Xu Huis face when he talked about Fang Chen. This led him to think that secr mortals like Fang Chen, no matter how high ranking they were, were nothing more than ants before Master Xu Hui.


    But what he had just witnessed overthrown that.


    So you defeated the Greenpine martial artists through a talisman


    Unlike Goldflower Granny, Master Xu Hui was more knowledgeable and he recognized Fang Chens means right away. However, he couldnt imagine what kind of talisman could wield that much destructive prowess.


    Buddhist monks often preach about embracingpassion, but Master Xu Hui, you havemitted many evildoings under the skin of an enlightened monk. Say, arent you curious to know whether Buddha will save you or not? Fang Chen asked.


    War God Fang, you dont know what youre getting involved in. Arent you afraid that you might bring a cmity upon your Great Xia? Master Xu Hui struggled to reply. He felt like knives were cutting into his throat, and every word he uttered was a torture in itself.


    I know about your Blood Spirit Cult, Fang Chen replied.


    You are the one! You killed Goldflower and Daoist Xue?! Master Xu Hui widened his eyes.


    He would have never imagined that Qin Dong was right. He regretted not believing that ants words, or else he wouldnt have been caught off guard. <em>But it looks like he intends to keep me alive for questioning. This is my chance to make aeback.</em>


    Just then, he saw another blinding sh of purple lightning in the sky.


    Several more purple lightning struck down on Master Xu Hui. It took just a few seconds for him to be reduced to cinders.

 Chapter 55: No Compassion in the Compassion Hall

    Chapter 55: No Compassion in the Compassion Hall


    How could this be Qin Dongs eyes lost their light, but he quickly snapped out of his daze and covered his mouth. <em>Id be dead meat if Fang Chen hears my voice!</em>


    Manager He of the Compassion Hall turned ghastly pale, as he had no idea what to do in this situation. He could only pray that the blind War God Fang would turn a blind eye to him as long as he remained silent.


    Theres nopassion in the Compassion Hall Fang Chen snorted.


    He walked up to the gray-robed daoist and little nun to sever the ropes binding them.


    Qin Dong took this secretly back away, only for the gray-robed daoist to notice him right away and holler, Dont even dream of running away!


    Qin Dongs body stiffened up.


    Manager He knew that he would have no chance to escape if he didnt make a move now, so he immediately turned tail and fled without a care in the world.


    However, soldiers suddenly rushed into the Compassion Hall. They were led by the vicemander of West Tiger Barracks, You Longchang.


    General You, take them down, Fang Chen ordered.


    Yes, young master, You Longchang bitterly replied.


    Without asking any questions, You Longchang marched in with his men to arrest Manager He and hisckeys. Those who fought back were killed on the spot.


    The gray-robed daoist stared at Fang Chen in astonishment.


    War God Fang! Fang Qingyao and his maid, upon release, rushed up to Fang Chen.


    Miss Fang, it seems like luck isnt on your side. Fang Chen chuckled.


    Fang Qingyao sighed upon hearing those words, but she was more curious to know whether Fang Chen knew beforehand about the corruption happening in Compassion Hall.


    War God Fang, isnt that Vice Minister Qin? You Longchang suddenly eximed in surprise. He dragged the pale-faced Qin Dong before Fang Chen as he asked, You even brought Vice Minister Qin along for this operation?


    Qin Dong cursed under his breath, but he knew it was impossible for him to slip away now. Thus, heposed himself and said, I came here to pay a visit to the orphans and donate some money.


    Vice Minister? Fang Qingyao and her maid couldnt believe what they were hearing. <em>This depraved man is actually a high-ranking official of Great Xia?!</em>


    Vice Minister Qin, I followed you here. Are you certain youre here to visit the orphans and donate money? You should know Miss Fang and the others are still alive, Fang Chen said.


    You despicable scum! You tried to sully my young miss! Fang Qingyaos maid roared.


    A shadow cloaked You Longchangs face. <em>I knew it! Theres always trouble whenever Fang Chen calls for me! Qin Dong is the Vice Minister of Rites, a second-grade official! </em>


    You cant trust the words of a mere merchants daughter. His Majesty wont take their words seriously either. War God Fang, theres no grudge between us. Theres no need to go that far, Qin Dong said. As long as you spare me today, Ill do your bidding from this day onward.


    General You theres no point wasting resources on trash. Lets deal with them on the spot, Fang Chen ordered You Longchang, not paying any heed to Qin Dong at all.


    <em>Deal with them on the spot? </em>You Longchang was taken aback, but after some hesitation, he still ordered his subordinates to follow through with the order.


    Cries of agony ensued, and those from the Compassion Hall were executed on the spot.


    Qin Dongs goosebumps out of fear. He felt a chill rising from his soles to the top of his head, causing him to shudder.


    What a bloodthirsty person he is! the gray-robed daoist grimly murmured as he reflexively grabbed the little nun and retreated two steps away from Fang Chen.


    The little nun shook off his hand with a reddened face.


    Fang Qingyao calmly watched as the violence unfolded, whereas her maid was so horrified that she dared not look at Fang Chen.


    War God Fang, Im done dealing with the people here. You should at least tell me what transpired here, right? What about Vice Minister Qin? You Longchang asked with a suppressed voice.


    Qin Dong eyed You Longchang. <em>Youre following Fang Chens orders despite not knowing what happened? You idiot! </em>


    Report that your West Tiger Barracks raided the Compassion Hall because you received a credible tip-off that its corrupted and has been kidnapping children and amputating their limbs to solicit donations. As for the rest its best for you not to know, Fang Chen said.


    All right You Longchang nodded.


    War God Fang Qin Dong meekly spoke up. Please consider what I said earli


    You keep quiet for now, Fang Chen said.


    Qin Dong nervously shut his mouth.


    Fang Qingyaos maid was worried that Fang Chen would spare Qin Dong, but the earlier scene she had witnessed made her dare not speak up to him.


    Just then, a soldier from the West Tiger Barracks anxiously rushed over with a pale face, eximing, War God Fang, General Fang, w-we found a lot of dried corpses!


    Lets take a look. Fang Chens face darkened.


    Inside an old well in the inner residence were a massive heap of dried corpses. There were people from all walks of lifeold, young, male, female All of them had warped expressions that gave a glimpse into the cruel torture they had been put through before their deaths.


    That goddamned Blood Spirit Cult! So much for preaching fucking kindness! the gray-robed daoist spat in anger.


    Amithabha, the little nun recited with a pale face.


    How could this be?! You Longchang stared at Fang Chen in disbelief.


    Qin Dongs face paled in guilt, but lest he drew suspicion, he feigned shock as well. He looked into the old well and angrily eximed, I would have never thought such atrocities were being carried out in the Compassion Hall!


    Fang Qingyao and her maid had been retching ever since they saw what was inside the well, but they couldnt help but stare at Qin Dong in utter disbelief upon hearing his words. <em>How could there be such a shameless person in the world?</em>


    They were killed by Xu Hui, Fang Chen said. They were the forsaken people taken in by the Compassion Hall. They have no friends or family, so their deaths went unnoticed for the longest time.


    Xu Hui? Youre talking about Master Xu Hui? You Longchang eximed. Hes here?!


    Hes that pile of ashes outside, the gray-robed daoist said.


    You Longchang vaguely remembered seeing a pile of ashes when he first entered. Not in his wildest imagination could he have imagined that it would be that renowned monk of Great Xia. <em>And this is his doing?</em>


    That demon monk must have been practicing demonic art?! You Longchang roared in anger.


    Keep this matter confidential, lest it stir a panic. General You, I believe you know what to do, Fang Chen said.


    The crowd was taken aback. They had some reservations concerning Fang Chens decision, but no one dared to speak against him since he had already made up his mind.


    I understand. You Longchang nodded. He eyed Vice Minister Qin and asked, War God Fang, what role did Vice Minister Fang y in this matter?


    I have no role in this matter! Vice Minister Qin eximed.


    His words were partially true. It was true that he didnt kill anyone inside the well, since he wasnt a Blood Spirit Cultist and wasnt practicing their demonic art. However, he was the one who sent many of the vulnerable people here.


    General You, focus on your duties first. Make sure to cate those living here, Fang Chen said. He paused for a moment before adding, Take Miss Fang and her maid too. Be gentle. They have suffered a shock too.


    Yes, young master. You Longchang nodded.


    Fang Qingyao and her maid knew that this was a matter beyond them, so they respectfully bowed to Fang Chen before backing out of the inner residence with You Longchang.


    The only ones left were Fang Chen, Qin Dong, the gray-robed daoist, and the little nun.


    Vice Minister Qin, how much do you know about the Blood Spirit Cult? Fang Chen asked.


    Qin Dongs eyeballs darted around.


    The gray-robed daoist harrumphed. Why are you looking around? Thinking of how you can lie your way out of this?


    Qin Dongs face stiffened up. He forgot there were two other fellows who could see here.

 Chapter 56: You’ve Seen a Ghost?

    Chapter 56: You¡¯ve Seen a Ghost?


    Vice Minister Qin, you should deliberate upon what youre going to say, Fang Chen said.


    Qin Dong gritted his teeth and hissed with a suppressed voice, War God Fang, you should have turned a blind eye to it if you knew about the Blood Spirit Cult! You cant begin to imagine just how powerful and terrifying they are. Recklessly getting involved in this will only bring a catastrophe upon your Fang Manor!


    The gray-robed daoist thought about it before nodding, Hes right. The Blood Spirit Cult is an influential power with many experts.


    Vice Minister Qin, you should honestly answer my questions if you wish to live. Dont bother spouting anything unnecessary, Fang Chen said.


    Vice Minister Qins face paled. War God Fang, I only know about this Compassion Hall. Youre free to report me to His Majesty via a memorial if you wish to.


    It was then that he suddenly realized something and scoffed, Its not as if I havemitted any evildoing here. Master Xu Hui is solely responsible for the corpses in the well. I have nothing to do with this at all. Im only here to donate money to the Compassion Hall.


    War God Fang, you can report me to the Valiant Defenders or the Court of Great Brilliance if you wish. Im innocent and have nothing to hide. Ill be waiting here for you to make your move.


    The gray-robed daoist was bbergasted. <em>How could this fellow be so shameless? I saw him colluding with a Blood Spirit Cultist and trying to take advantage of an innocentdy!</em>


    Vice Minister Qin, you seem to believe my only option is to resort to the authorities. Fang Chen shook his head and smiled.


    What else do you want to do? We call you War God Fang out of respect, but youre without an official title or position. You dont even have the right to question me. Qin Dong smirked.


    He put on the airs he had built up over decades of being an official, knowing that his cowardice would only backfire on him. He hoped that his tough front would force Fang Chen to weigh his pros and cons and spare him for the time being.


    Based on what I know, the Blood Spirit Cult has seven cultivators lurking in Great Xia. I have killed three of them, and Im hoping Vice Minister Qin can tell me who and where the remaining four are. If you confess, Ill consider sparing your life, Fang Chen calmly said.


    War God Fang, do you not hear me?! You have no right to punish me! I am Qin Dong, the Vice Minister of Rites! Qin Dong roared authoritatively.


    Take him, Tie Ma. Use the means you learned from Greenpines Wolf Army on him. I want him to divulge everyst detail he knows, Fang Chen instructed.


    Yes, young master. Tie Ma suddenly appeared behind Qin Dong, knocked thetter out, and dragged him away.


    <em>This martial artist is considerably strong</em>, the gray-robed daoist thought.


    How should I address you? Fang Chen asked the gray-robed daoist.


    The gray-robed daoist looked at Fang Chens grayish-white eyes and instinctively waved his hand before them.


    I might have gone blind, but that doesnt mean Im truly unable to see. Fang Chen smiled.


    The gray-robed daoist scratched his head sheepishly. He dared not to show any disrespect after witnessing Fang Chens extraordinary means in killing that Blood Spirit Cultist. You may call me Daoye.


    Daoye? Fang Chen frowned.


    Ah, please dont misunderstand! Thats my real name. My full name is Li Daoye, and Im from the Eight Trigrams Sect, Li Daoye awkwardly exined. He gestured to the chanting little nun behind and said, She is Abbess Clearlotus. We met by chance, but we became close friends as we traveled together to many ces.


    Brother Li, how much do you know about the Blood Spirit Cult? Fang Chen asked.


    That fellow is right. Its best not to interfere in the Blood Spirit Cults affairs. Even the major sects struggle to deal with them, Li Daoye grimly said. I would have never stepped into this ce if I knew there was a Blood Spirit Cultist here.


    Please enlighten me, Brother Li, Fang Chen said.


    Li Daoye looked at Fang Chen contemtively before saying, I dont know a lot about the Blood Spirit Cult either. I only know that they are an enigmatic organization with manyckeys. From time to time, they would dispatch their disciples to infiltrate major empires and spark wars to gather human blood essence for their Blood Spirit Divine Pill.


    Its not just grade-9 states like Great Xia; their trail could be found in grade-8, grade-7, and even grade-6 nations. On that note, which sect are you from? What are you doing in a grade-9 state? Li Daoye asked out of curiosity.


    I am a wandering cultivator. I am a citizen of Great Xia, so where else would I be if not here? Fang Chen smiled.


    Li Daoyes words had given him a deeper understanding of the Blood Spirit Cult. He was clearly up against something stronger than he had expected, if it could sink its fangs into grade-6 states too.


    During his years as Great Xias marshall, he had tried to understand how strong grade-8 and grade-7 states were, and he found that their foundation far surpassed that of Great Xia. As for grade-6 states, he didnt have the means to look into them, so they were like a mystery to him.


    What? Youre a local? Li Daoye was stunned. A cultivator actually came from a grade-9 state? How rare! And your cultivation is not low either


    He briefly paused before adding, Thats more reason for you not to get involved with the Blood Spirit Cult. Theyll leave once they forge enough Blood Spirit Divine Pills. The Blood Spirit Cults influence surpasses our wildest imagination. Its rumored there are even experts from the Blood Spirit Cult in grade-1 states!


    Is that true? Fang Chens face darkened.


    <em>Grade-1 states? The Center Continent Country is also a grade-1 state. Does the Blood Spirit Cult have experts on par with Elder Yun He, who can travel with their soul?</em>


    I cant verify it since I didnt personally witness it, but thats what I heard from the rumors. Its unlikely such rumors woulde out of nowhere, and the fact the Blood Spirit Cult hasnt been quashed even after so many years lends credibility to these rumors, Li Daoye said.


    He waved his hand and sighed. Brother, I advise you to steer clear of such mundane affairs. You should hide before the Blood Spirit Cult learns about your existence. Cultivation is not easy. Its rare that someone from a grade-9 state like you is able to walk on the path of an immortal cultivator; dont ruin your future over this.


    So I should turn a blind eye as the Blood Spirit Cultist poisons our Great Xia civilians and use their lives to forge their so-called Blood Spirit Divine Pill? Fang Chen shook his head. I have to do something about it at the very least.


    What can you do about it? No matter how strong you are, you are still at Ki Refinement, right? Unless you reach Foundation Establishment then perhaps you might be able to resolve the crisis in your Great Xia. The people the Blood Spirit Cult dispatched here wont be any stronger than that, Li Daoye replied with a frown.


    Daoye, lets help them, Abbess Clearlotus suddenly spoke up.


    Little Abbess, are you out of your mind? You want to go against the Blood Spirit Cult? You shouldnt forget that youre only at second stage Ki Refinement! A single sneeze from the Blood Spirit Cult, and thatll be the end of you! Li Daoye eximed in horror.


    But they begged me to stay behind and help War God Fang. They said War God Fang is theirst hope. Ive already promised them the little nun said with reddened eyes.


    Them? You saw ghosts again? A shudder ran through Li Daoyes spine. He walked a step closer to Fang Chen as he warily scanned his surroundings.

 Chapter 57: Storage Ring

    Chapter 57: Storage Ring


    Abbess Clearlotus could see countless figures inside the small courtyard, be it the elderly or the youthful. They were gathered around the withered well; some not uttering a word whereas some chattered non-stop.


    All right, Ill ry your words to War God Fang, Abbess Clearlotus nodded. She turned to Fang Chen and said, War God Fang, they want you to promise them to drive the Blood Spirit Cultists out of Great Xia.


    You can see ghosts? Fang Chen was fazed.


    He had drawn out his soul countless times over thest five years, but he had never seen a ghost before. Was it possible that this second stage Ki Refinement little nun was really able to see ghosts?


    My master said I was born with Yin-Yang Eyes, which allows me to see ghosts, Abbess Clearlotus replied with a nod.


    Li Daoye was getting goosebumps all over his body. <em>This Little Abbess is a wonderful person, but her ability to see ghosts really creeps me out!</em>


    Tell them I will, Fang Chen replied with a nod.


    Abbess Clearlotus saw the figures bowing toward Fang Chen, and she said, War God Fang, they are bidding you farewell.


    May you have a smooth journey, Fang Chen sped his fist and replied.


    Are they gone yet? Li Daoye anxiously asked.


    Yes, they are gone. Abbess Clearlotus nodded. I promised them to stay in Great Xia and help War God Lotus drive away the Blood Spirit Cultists.


    Little Abbess, you made that promise by yourself. This has nothing to do with me. Im going to get out of here, and I think you shoulde with me! Li Daoye cried.


    I gave them your word in your stead too, Abbess Clearlotus added.


    What?! You gave them my word in my stead?! You didnt ask me! Li Daoye was horrified.


    My master said that we must fulfill our promises to the ghosts, or else well face many difficulties on our path toward immortalhood, Abbess Clearlotus said.


    Did your master tell you not to easily give your promise to others too?! Li Daoye nearly tore his hair out.


    Abbess Clearlotus was stunned. Secondster, she nodded. I think my master said something like that too.


    Why are you easily giving your promise to others then?! You even promised them in my stead. What a terrible nun you are! I shouldnt have saved you from those human traffickers! Li Daoye bellowed in a fit of anger.


    Please feel free to leave if you wish. This is our own affair. You dont need to get involved in it, Fang Chen said.


    Ill be taking my leave then! Li Daoye sped his fist. With a harrumph, he leaped across the wall and left.


    Little Abbess, you should leave too, Fang Chen said.


    War God Fang, I must fulfill my promise to them. Ill stay behind and help you, Abbess Clearlotus said.


    Youre only at second stage Ki Refinement. How do you intend to help me? Fang Chen asked.


    Abbess Clearlotus was taken aback. She clearly hadnt thought things through. Her face turned red, and she nervously fiddled with her fingers before finally replying with a soft voice, I can see ghosts. That should be useful somehow


    Its fine. My parents are Buddhists anyway, so why dont you stay in our Fang Manors praying room for the time being? Fang Chen said with a nod.


    He had to concede that the little nuns Yin-Yang Eyes could help him a lot if put to good use.


    He walked out of the Compassion Hall with the little nun and found that Fang Qingyao and her maid were still lingering around. They were waiting for him.


    Miss Fang, is there anything else you need from me? Fang Chen asked.


    War God Fang, General You intends to seal off this Compassion Hall, but if so, the vulnerable people whom they have taken in wouldnt have anywhere to go Im wondering if its possible for my Verdant Apothecary Hall to take over this Compassion Hall Fang Qingyao said.


    Thatd be wonderful. Ill have my men settle the procedures for you. Dont hesitate to drop by our Fang Manor if your Verdant Apothecary Hall ever encounters any business problems, Fang Chen said with a smile.


    Thats good to hear. Fang Qingyaos eyes lit up in delight.


    It didnt take long for the Fang Manor to learn that Fang Chen had brought a little nun back.


    Fang Canghai and his wife immediately rushed out. Fang Cangyou also pushed his wheelchair over at an amazing speed. Their faces turned bizarre when they saw Abess Clearlotus.


    Chener, I never expected you to have such a preference Fang Cangyou mumbled.


    Fang Canghai shot a ferocious re at his younger brother before curiously assessing Abbess Clearlotus from head to toe. Chener, this abbess is?


    Abbess Clearlotus is a highly-enlightened nun. Father, mother, I know you pursue Buddhism, so I invited her to stay in our praying room so that mother doesnt have to travel to the Temple of Enlightenment anymore, Fang Chen said.


    The crowd breathed a sigh of relief. <em>At least Fang Chen doesnt intend to marry this little nun. </em>They couldnt be med for being so nervous, as this was the first time Fang Chen brought a woman back.


    Fang Chens mother stepped forward and warmly weed Abbess Clearlotus. Having never experienced such hospitality, the little nun swiftly turned red.


    No matter how they looked at it, she didnt seem like a highly-enlightened nun. Fang Canghai and Fang Cangyou couldnt help but get suspicious once more.


    Fang Chen paid no heed to them. He made some light talk before returning to his room. He took out a ring he had found amidst Master Xu Huis ashes, which he suspected to be a storage ring.


    To think it has eight daosoul imprints on it. Its no ordinary treasure.


    When Fang Chens spirit ki came into contact with the ring, it revealed eight daosoul imprints.


    For the next two days, Fang Chen spent his spirit ki erasing Master Xu Huis aura from the ring. Following that, he assimted the ring, and the ring finally became his artifact.


    He put on the ring and slowly infused his spirit ki into it. He immediately saw a void with slightly more than a hundred low-grade ki stones scattered around and a golden bowl. The golden bowl was the artifact Xu Hui had previously used against the gray-robed daoist.


    A space thats around a cubic meter big. Not bad. Fang Chen smiled.


    Neither the Greenwood Puppet nor the jade pendant was on par with this storage ring. This storage ring allowed him to carry items that were usually inconvenient for him to bring about.


    He retrieved the golden bowl and examined it. It had the same number of daosoul imprints as the Greenwood Puppet. He didnt intend to use it just yet, so he tossed it back into the storage ring. At the same time, he ced the Greenwood Puppet and the hundred low-grade ki stones he had earned into the storage ring.


    He kept the jade pendant on him though.


    I have a couple of spirit artifacts and over two hundred low-grade ki stones. That should make me decently wealthy among Ki Refinement cultivators, Fang Chen murmured.


    Just then, he heard amotion outside.


    Young master, the Valiant Defenders have barged into our mansion! Xu Ge urgently reported from outside the door.


    Got it. Fang Chen nodded.


    At the main hall, Fang Cangyou red at the fifty ferocious Valiant Defenders before him from his wheelchair, not disying the slightest fear. With cold eyes and a lofty voice, he sneered, You Valiant Defenders must think lightly of our Fang Manor to dare barge in like that. Does yourmander, Xiao Shence, intend to make enemies out of our Fang Manor?


    Second Master Fang, I have heard about you, but I didnt think we would meet under such circumstances. We havee under orders. I hope you can call Fang Chen out to meet us, Enforcement Envoy Liu said.

 Chapter 58: Fang Chen, Do You Know the Consequences of Lying to the Emperor?

    Chapter 58: Fang Chen, Do You Know the Consequences of Lying to the Emperor?


    You can talk to me first. Whats your business? Fang Cangyou patted the nket covering hisps as he replied in ackadaisical manner.


    Fang Chen has been suspected to be involved in the disappearance of Vice Minister of Rites Qin Dong. Im here to bring him to our barracks for investigation, Enforcement Envoy Liu said. I have the documents from ourmander in hand, and His Majesty has approved this matter too. Second master Fang, I hope you arent intending to obstruct justice here.


    Fang Cangyous face turned livid.


    The Fang Manors guards red at Enforcement Envoy Liu, disying no fear toward the Valiant Defenders. All of them used to be soldiers, be it under Fang Canghai, Fang Cangyou, or Fang Chen.


    They wouldnt hesitate to deal with the Valiant Defenders if Fang Cangyou gave the word.


    You must have gotten the wrong person. Theres nothing between Chener and Qin Dong, Fang Cangyou slowly replied.


    Someone spotted Fang Chen and Vice Minister Qin Dong in the northern suburbs Compassion Hall a few days back, and Vice Minister Qin Dong went missing right after. I personally think this is too much to shrug off as a coincidence. Of course, wed have to investigate the matter to get to the bottom of things. Second master Fang, Ill be troubling you to inform Fang Chen and have him follow us to our barracks, Enforcement Envoy Liu said with a smile.


    Fang Cangyou was just about to speak when Fang Chen walked out.


    Enforcement Envoy Liu and his subordinates visibly tensed up upon seeing Fang Chen, but they quicklyposed themselves.


    We meet again, War God Fang, Enforcement Envoy Liu sped his fist and greeted Fang Chen with a superficial smile.


    Second uncle, you have been busy the entire day. Why dont you head back and take a rest? Fang Chen smiled at Fang Cangyou.


    Enforcement Envoy Liusplexion turned awful after being snubbed by Fang Chen. He spoke in a more severe voice, War God Fang, you have toe with us.


    Im talking to my second uncle right now. Learn some patience and wait quietly by the side. Fang Chen red at Enforcement Envoy Liu with menacing eyes.


    Enforcement Envoy Lius face turned bright red, but he put a lid on his anger. He was afraid Fang Chen would publicly p him once again.


    Chener, is this matter serious? Fang Cangyou asked with a suppressed voice.


    What could possibly happen? Fang Chenughed. Ill be back for dinner.


    Thats good to hear. Fang Cangyouughed as well before ordering a servant to push him back to his room.


    Under the sharp re of the Fang Manors guards, Enforcement Envoy Liu and his subordinates took Fang Chen away with them.


    A momentter, Fang Chen suddenly remarked, This isnt the way to your barracks.


    Were heading to the imperial pce. The investigation will be presided over by His Majesty in the Pce of Great Peace. Ah, other than Vice Minister Qin Dongs disappearance, well be processing the case of you ordering your subordinates to murder the cavalrymen of a Longdu viscount too, Enforcement Envoy Liu sneered.


    Its about time to deal with that too. Fang Chen nodded.


    Meanwhile, the officials were gathered in the Pce of Great Peace, discussing the recent disappearance of Vice Minister Qin Dong. Quite a few people noticed something was amiss when he was absent for yesterdays morning assembly.


    How could the Vice Minister of Rites, a second-grade official, miss the morning assembly without a proper excuse? This was a dereliction of duty!


    Thus, Prime Minister Li Guozhu sent his men to the Qin Manor to investigate this matter, and he learned that Qin Dong didnt return the previous night. He quickly reported it to the emperor.


    The emperor ordered Xiao Shence to investigate the matter. Following Qin Dongs trail, they were eventually led to the Compassion Hall, where they learned Fang Chen was thest person to have met him.


    But theres no reason for War God Fang to harm Vice Minister Qin. Theres no grudge between them. Besides, Vice Minister Qin is our Great Xias second-grade official. I dont think War God Fang would be so reckless as to make a move on him.


    You cant be certain of that. War God Fang is a martial artist, after all. Its not umon for martial artists to let their emotions get the better of them. Who knows? Vice Minister Qin might have offended War God Fang one way or another


    Are you saying that the martial artists see us as prey they can ughter at their whim? Such a culture cant be condoned! War God Fang has to give us an exnation!


    Indeed! How can a second-grade official vanish into thin air? We cant let this matter slide!


    The officials expressed their stances in the imperial court.


    Li Huafeng calmly watched the crowd. He asionally nced at the Fifth King, who was chatting and joking around with a few other officials, though he also eyed the crown prince with his peripheral vision from time to time.


    The way he took in everything around him was reminiscent of a leopard lying low in a forest, ready tounch his ambush whenever required.


    Beside the crown prince, Longdu Viscount Zhou Xiu sneered, Crown prince, your War God Fang is getting ahead of himself to dare harm a second-grade official of your country. Hmph! Regardless, I hope to receive a satisfactory exnation today!


    Of course. You may put your mind at ease, Viscount Zhou, the crown prince replied.


    Fang Chen has arrived! a high-pitched voice echoed outside.


    The crowd turned their eyes over.


    Enforcement Envoy Liu entered the Pce of Great Peace together with Fang Chen, and he kneeled down and reported, Your Majesty, I have brought young master Fang here.


    In contrast, Fang Chen remained on his feet. In view of the massive contribution he had made to Great Xia, he had been bestowed with the privilege to not have to kneel before the emperor.


    Everyone turned their attention to Fang Chen.


    Zhou Xiu gritted his jaws in anger at the sight of Fang Chen. If looks could kill, he would have murdered Fang Chen a thousand times over.


    You may back down, the emperor said.


    Enforcement Envoy Liu backed down and took his position behind Xiao Shence.


    Fang Chen, do you know why I have called you here today? the emperor impassively looked at Fang Chen as he asked.


    I heard Vice Minister Qin went missing, Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    Thats right. First and foremost, exin to me why you ordered You Longchang to raid the northern suburbs Compassion Hall, the emperor said.


    The officials thought it was weird too. Why would Fang Chen turn his attention to, of all ces, the Compassion Hall? Did the Compassion Hall somehow offend this demon?


    Your Majesty, that has nothing to do with me. I only happened to bump into it. However, I heard that Compassion Hall has been kidnapping children, prostituting women, and embezzling public funds, which I presume was why General You raided the ce. Fang Chen smiled.


    Very well, we wont talk about that. What I want to know is where Vice Minister Qin is. You were thest person who met Vice Minister Qin before he went missing. Its preposterous for a second-grade official of our imperial court to suddenly vanish into thin air. I need an exnation for that, the emperor growled.


    Your Majesty, Vice Minister Qin has legs of his own. He goes wherever he wants, Fang Chen replied.


    Youre saying you have nothing to do with Vice Minister Qins disappearance? the emperor asked.


    Naturally. Fang Chen smiled.


    Fang Chen, do you know the consequences of lying to me? The emperors voice grew menacingly deep. He eyed Xiao Shence.


    Xiao Shence immediately stepped forward and said, Fang Chen, I found that Vice Minister Qin was once suspected to be behind the disappearance of a maid in his manor. The Court of Great Brilliance investigated the matter and proved Vice Minister Qins innocence.


    Not long ago, you and a Court of Great Brilliances rectifier privately looked into this case, and Vice Minister Qin went missing shortly after. Everything is rted here. It seems too much to shrug this off as a coincidence.


    Xiao Shence paused for a brief moment before adding, Our Valiant Defenders have legitimate grounds to suspect that youre involved in Vice Minister Qins disappearance. Id advise you to honestly confess to it!

 Chapter 59: An Explanation

    Chapter 59: An Exnation


    Commander Xiao, its rather presumptuous of you to one-sidedly insist it isnt a coincidence. Yes, I did meet Vice Minister Qin that day, but he left in a hurry. As for where he went, neither my eyes nor my ears are keen enough to tell, Fang Chen calmly replied.


    Xiao Shence frowned.


    His instincts told him that Fang Chen was involved in Qin Dongs disappearance, but he simply couldnt figure out what could have prompted him to make a move on a second-grade official. <em>Would he really make a move on Vice Minister Qin over a missing maid?</em>


    Your Majesty, Fang Chens words make sense. Itd be premature to conclude that Fang Chen has kidnapped Vice Minister Qin just because Fang Chen previously investigated a rted case and had met him on the same day, the Fifth King suddenly spoke up. As far as I know, theres no ties between Fang Chen and Vice Minister Qin. Theres no reason for Fang Chen to tantly disregard ourws and make a move on Vice Minister Qin. Thats a crime punishable by death!


    The Fifth King makes sense


    The officials whispered among themselves.


    Fifth King, thats not necessarily the case.


    A middle-aged man with facial features resembling Tao Yus took a step forward. He was the Minister of Rites Tao Mingsheng, as well as Qin Dongs direct superior.


    Tao Mingsheng first cast his gaze across the imperial court before he turned to the emperor, sped his fist, and said, Your Majesty, Fang Chen is a fourth stage Ki Manifestation martial artist. Experts of his caliber tend to be reckless in their behavior. It was due to his arrogance in the Three Realms Mountain five years ago that we lost many of our soldiers.


    Tao Mingsheng paused for a brief second before turning to the crown prince. Even the crown prince was once pped by Fang Chen. With his audacity, its not unthinkable for him to inflict harm upon the Vice Minister of Rites.


    The officials fell silent.


    They were aware of the matter, but at the same time, the crown prince wasnt the crown prince then. Instead, it was the Third Prince who looked more likely to inherit the throne. Due to that, the crown prince dared not to reprimand Fang Chen for the p.


    It was only when Fang Chen was defeated in the Three Realms Mountain five years ago, and the Third Prince offered to be a hostage in Greenpine Country that the crown prince rose to his current position.


    The crown prince didnt look angered by Tao Mingshengs mention of the matter, which made him look cultured. He seemed to have forgotten about the humiliation he had suffered in Fang Chens hand back then.


    Minister Tao, your words suggest that you know nothing about the judicial process. You have said nothing but baseless spections thus far. I might not be in the imperial court now, but as you have said, I am a Ki Manifestation expert, not to mention Great Xias only Ki Manifestation expert. Fang Chen chuckled. Your words have put me in apromising position. Arent you worried that I might make you pay the price?


    Tao Mingshengs eyes turned cold. Fang Chen, you dare make a move on me in His Majestys presence? Do it then. I dont fear a mere martial artist!


    He even stepped forward to highlight hisck of fear.


    The other officials were moved by Tao Mingshengs courage to confront a Ki Manifestation martial artist. They wouldnt have dared to do the same if they were in his ce. With Fang Chens strength, he could go on a rampage here and still walk out of the imperial pce alive.


    Minister Tao, dont bother provoking War God Fang. He has been through a lot despite his young age; you shouldnt take him for a fool. You can stow that little ploy of yours back in your head, a white-haired old man spoke up.


    The officials quietly watching the situation were surprised. Even Prime Minister Li Guozhu also turned to the white-haired old man.


    The white-haired old man was Jiang Yushu, the Minister of Justice and a veteran who served three generations of Great Xias imperial court. He had served in the military in his younger years before being transferred to the Bureau of Justice. He cracked many cases during his time there and slowly climbed his way to his current position.


    In recent years, Jiang Yushu began washing his hands clean of the imperial court. He would still attend morning assemblies, but he would return to his manor to rest afterward.


    That was why everyone was surprised when he suddenly spoke up for Fang Chen.


    Tao Mingsheng stared at Jiang Yushu with deep eyes as he tried to assess thetters intention.


    Minister Jiang, whats your take on this matter? the emperor asked.


    Your Majesty, theres no concrete evidence supporting the usations leveled against War God Fang, so I humbly suggest moving on to the next matter first, Jiang Yushu sped his fist and said.


    Next matter?


    <em>Is he referring to</em> The officials nced at the Longdu viscount standing beside the crown prince.


    Your Majesty, I have a few cases with me concerning the crimesmitted by high-ranking officials and powerful nobles through the Compassion Halls all over the capital. Jiang Yushu took out a heap of scrolls and handed it to Eunuch You, who then hurriedly presented it over to the emperor.


    Quite a few officials revealed unnatural looks. Tao Mingsheng nced at Jiang Yushu, followed by the smiling Fang Chen, and his heart suddenly sank.


    As the emperor browsed through the scrolls, his face slowly darkened. Eventually, he mmed the scrolls on the table and asked, Minister Jiang, are these true?


    Yes, Your Majesty. Vice Minister Qin is currently in our Bureau of Justices prison. He has confessed to colluding with the Compassion Hall to engage in illicit activities, and we have evidence to support that.


    Other than that, the renowned Master Xu Hui turns out to be a fiend cultivating demonic arts. Countless vulnerable people living in the Compassion Hall have died in his hands in thest few years, and their corpses are currently in our Bureau of Justice, Jiang Yushu said grimly.


    War God Fang was the one who cracked this case, addressing the suspicions I have harbored for many years now.


    Xiao Shence was stunned.


    Enforcement Envoy Lius face turned pale, but he quicklyposed himself. He nced at Fang Chen and breathed a sigh of relief when he saw thetters attention wasnt on him.


    The Fifth King was surprised too. He alternated his gaze between Fang Chen and Jiang Yushu with contemtive eyes.


    Jiang Yushus words shook the imperial court.


    <em>Vice Minister Qin is in the Bureau of Justice? Master Xu Hui is a fiend practicing demonic arts? There are many corpses hidden in the Compassion Hall?</em>


    These huge revtions prompted many officials to anxiously probe about them, raising a hugemotion in the Pce of Great Peace. In the end, the emperor had to m his table to bring order to the imperial court.


    Minister Jiang, I want you to tie up all loose ends within seven days and deliver a detailed report to me, the emperor ordered.


    Yes, Your Majesty! Jiang Yushu sped his fist. A sharp glint shed across his turbid eyes.


    No one could have thought that Vice Minister Qin was imprisoned in the Bureau of Justice over a case. Those who had previously used Fang Chen of harming Qin Dong hung their heads in shame.


    However, there were also those who were rmed by the turn of events. They didnt think that Jiang Yushu would make a move today. They couldnt help but wonder if this was Fang Chens scheme all along, and the goal was to send them a warning.


    Lets conclude Qin Dongs matter for the time being, Zhou Xiu suddenly spoke up. Isnt it about time for Great Xia to offer me an exnation?


    Fang Chen, apologize to Viscount Zhou, and Ill let this matter slip. The emperor casually waved his hand.


    Apologize?! Zhou Xius eyes zed with fury. Your Majesty, my cavalrymen were massacred, but youre only asking an apology out of him?


    Your Majesty, I do owe Viscount Zhou an exnation for this matter. Fang Chen smiled.


    Zhou Xiu snorted in disdain.


    The officials were also intrigued. <em>Is Fang Chen really going to apologize to Zhou Xiu?</em>


    MInister Jiang, whats the sentence for someone who hunts down our merchant convoy as if they are no different from livestock? Fang Chen asked.

 Chapter 60: They Ought to Be Murdered on the Spot

    Chapter 60: They Ought to Be Murdered on the Spot


    Fang Chens words startled the officials. Tao Mingsheng and the crown princes faces darkened. Even the emperor frowned as well.


    The truth was that they had already known what had happened, but how could theypromise their ties with Longdu over a fewmoners?


    Great Xia was at risk of being invaded by Greenpine, so they pursued closer ties with Longdu, Guhe, and Yizhou to serve as a buffer. This way, Greenpine would think twice before making a move on them.


    If Great Xia fell on bad terms with any one of them, the buffer effect would vanish. The consequences would be disastrous as they didnt have the military might to protect themselves at the moment.


    Such an offense warrants the capital punishment, War God Fang, Jiang Yushu stroked his beard and replied.


    His Majesty, how do you think we should deal with Zhou Xiu? Fang Chen asked.


    Zhou Xiu snorted in disbelief. He pointed his finger at Fang Chen and eximed, Youre going to use that kind of nonsense against me? You must be out of your mind! If our Longdu deres war on your Great Xia, youll be facing a two-pronged attack from us and Greenpine! Its likely that Guhe and Yizhou will join in as well to get a share of the pie. Are you sure you can bear the consequences?


    Calm down, Viscount Zhou, Prime Minister Li Guozhu walked out and first appeased Zhou Xiu before turning to Fang Chen with a frown. War God Fang, its best not to blow up this matter.


    Tao Mingsheng stepped forward and roared, Fang Chen, do you know what kind of position youd be putting our Great Xia in if we fell out with Longdu over this?


    The crown prince turned to the emperor, sped his fist, and bowed. Your Majesty, please reconsider this matter!


    A handful of officials stood forward to express their stance, and most of them used to be from the Fang Faction.


    Zhou Xiu looked at Fang Chen with a gleeful smile. <em>This is Great Xias current state of affairs, but you still dared to provoke our Longdu. Before the greater scheme of things, it doesnt matter whether youre a Ki Manifestation martial artist or not!</em>


    I dont need you to apologize to me either. The heads of your two subordinates will suffice, Zhou Xiu said. Otherwise, our Longdu will wage a State War on your Great Xia. If so, your losses wont stop with just this.


    A State War?!


    The crowd was horrified.


    State War was a way for two states to resolve their differences. They would gather their troops and have them directly sh against each other, thus deciding on the victor in the simplest way possible. Needless to say, the loser would have to pay a heavy price to the winner, depending on the stakes they had decided on beforehand.


    Great Xia had less than four hundred thousand soldiers, whereas Longdu had more than a million soldiers. Longdu didnt have any Ki Manifestation martial artists, but they had far more pinnacle Ki Control experts than Great Xia.


    Great Xias odds werent good if they engaged in a State War.


    Fang Chen, the ones who massacred the cavalrymen were Huang Sihai and the Greenpine Wolf Armys Tie Ma, right? the emperor asked.


    Tie Ma?!


    The officials were taken aback.


    Xiao Shence knew about this in advance and was unfazed, but the other officials were shocked. They couldnt wrap their heads around why an expert from the Greenpine Wolf Army would fall under Fang Chensmand.


    Your Majesty, how do you intend to deal with this matter? Fang Chen asked.


    Well do as Viscount Zhou says. You dont need to apologize to him; you just have to hand those two over. You can uphold your dignity in this war, and Great Xia would be spared from a cmity, the emperor said with a sigh.


    Itll encourage the other countries to go overboard if we give in here. Five years ago, even the Longdu dukes would have to put on their best behavior in our Great Xia. We would have never condoned something like that, Fang Chen said.


    Youre talking about five years ago. Time has changed, Fang Chen. You were the one who led Great Xia to its downfall! Zhou Xiu chortled.


    Great Xia is indeed different from before. Fang Chen sighed.


    Just as everyone thought Fang Chen was about to give in, he suddenly turned to the emperor and sped his fist. My apologies, His Majesty. Other countries will look down on our Great Xia if we dont deal with Zhou Xiu today. Our merchant convoys will face all sorts of trouble trading in other countries. Well see more of our civilians being hunted down like livestocks.


    Fang Chen flitted forth, grabbed the dumbstruck Zhou Xiu, and left the Pce of Great Peace. A few people, including Xiao Shence, tried to stop Fang Chen, but they were too slow.


    By the time the imperial court registered what was going on, Fang Chen had already stepped out of the Pce of Great Peace.


    Stop him! the emperor roared.


    Xiao Shence immediately charged out with Enforcement Envoy Liu and the imperial guards. Following behind them were the emperor and the officials. They had to see what in the world Fang Chen was up to.


    How dare you hurt me? Your Great Xia will pay the price for this! Zhou Xiu screeched.


    Fang Chen continued flitting forth with Zhou Xiu in his hand. A single stride from him easily covered over twenty meters, which created an illusion as if he was contracting the space around him like an immortal.


    The pursuing guards were unable to catch up with him.


    Soon, Fang Chen arrived at the imperial pces most crowded gate with Zhou Xiu in hand.


    Right outside the imperial pce were all kinds of teahouses, taverns, merchants, and vendors. The street was bustling with people. Guhe, Yizhou, and Longdu citizens were in the mix too.


    Isnt that War God Fang? someone eximed in surprise.


    War God Fang is holding someone in his hand. Who is that? another person asked.


    The crowd didnt recognize Zhou Xiu, but the Longdu schrs did. Their faces warped in shock.


    One of them immediately stepped forward and questioned, War God Fang, what do you intend to do with our Longdus viscount?!


    <em>Longdus viscount?</em>


    That stoked the crowds intrigue, as they wondered how this viscount had crossed Fang Chen. News swiftly spread, and more people gathered around to watch themotion.


    However, it soon became clear that something was amiss when the imperial guards and the Valiant Defenders arrived at the scene. Their shock deepened when arge group of officials came rushing over, and the one leading the pack was none other than Great Xias emperor!


    Long live Your Majesty! The crowd kneeled down and eximed resoundingly


    Rise. The emperor lividly waved his hand and nodded. He then turned to Fang Chen and grimly ordered, Fang Chen, release Viscount Zhou right now.


    Fang Chen, youre disobeying imperial orders right now! the crown prince bellowed.


    Whats going on? Why did Fang Chen capture Zhou Xiu?


    Ye Qinghe, Tao Yu, and a few others appeared amidst the crowd. They werent qualified to participate in the affairs of the imperial court, but they had heard that Fang Chen was going to be questioned, so they came here to celebrate the event.


    They hadnt expected to stumble upon such a sight.


    They also found their respective fathers amidst therge group of officials. If not for the emperor being present too, they would have rushed forward to ask them what was going on.


    <em>War God Fang is disobeying the emperor? </em>The crowd was confused.


    Fang Chen burst intoughter. He channeled his spirit ki and amplified his voice such that it could be heard from kilometers away. The man in my hand is a Longdu viscount. He hunted our Great Xias merchant convoy for sport and showed no repent for his action afterward. Instead, he said that our people are mere livestock that can be killed as he pleased.


    For his vile crimes, he shall be executed on the spot!

 Chapter 61: These Are Built With Our Blood and Sweat!

    Chapter 61: These Are Built With Our Blood and Sweat!


    What? A Longdu noble attacked our Great Xias merchant convoy?


    Sheesh. I have long heard about it, but I never thought itd be true. I heard our merchants have been having a tough time in recent years.


    What nonsense is this? If War God Fangs words are true, we definitely should execute that bastard viscount!


    The civilians of Great Xia were infuriated.


    The emperorsplexion was awful. The same went for the crown prince and the others too.


    Audacious, Fang Chen! What right does a civilian like you have to judge a person under broad daylight? Tao Mingsheng roared in anger.


    I might be a civilian, but Im also Great Xias Ki Manifestation martial artist, Fang Chen replied. If no one wishes to change the present situation, Ill be the one to take the first step forward.


    Fang Chen, release our viscount!


    Are you waging war against our Longdu?


    The Longdu schrs raged.


    Some Guhe and Yizhou schrs also revealed angered looks as they questioned the emperor.


    The emperor coldly red at Fang Chen and said, Let him go, Fang Chen, and I wont pursue your wrongdoings.


    Your Majesty, I know you wish to slice this man into shreds, but youre holding back because youre worried that itll bring greater harm upon Great Xia. Allow me to quell your hesitations. Ill behead this man on your behalf.


    Ill shoulder all the responsibility alone. If a war is what Longdu wants, a war it will get! Our Great Xia was forged with the blood and sweat of our people. A Longdu viscount arrogantly thinks that our people are lowly peasants and hunts them down for sport. Needless to say, we should repay this favor correspondingly! Fang Chen said.


    His voice reverberated loudly like a massive bell, echoing even many kilometers away.


    The crowd fell silent.


    Li Guozhu first looked at Fang Chen, followed by Zhou Xiu, before shaking his head. Some of the officials who had sought to dissuade Fang Chen fell into deep thought before slowly taking a step back.


    Minister of Justice Jiang Yushu stroked his beard as he watched this scene with turbid eyes. There was a hint of a smile on his lips. His attitude couldnt be clearer.


    Amidst the crowd, Fang Qingyao and her maid dazedly stared at Fang Chen, who had been surrounded by the Valiant Defenders and the imperial guards.


    Y-young miss, War God Fang intends to execute Zhou Xiu in front of everyone! I thought that he spared Zhou Xiu for the bigger picture!


    This puts War God Fang in an even more dangerous position. Fang Qingyaos eyes brimmed with worry.


    Dont worry, young miss. We have witnessed War God Fangs means. Hell have a way out! her maid replied.


    Fang Qingyao thought about what Fang Chen had aplished and quickly calmed down.


    Step aside! a roar echoed.


    A general rushed through the crowd, leaped off his steed, and bowed to the emperor. It was Fang Canghai, who had been demoted to a city guard!


    Fang Canghai, look at what your son is doing! the emperor roared.


    Pardon me, Your Majesty! Fang Canghai first sped his fist at the emperor before turning to Fang Chen. Chener, must you kill that person today?


    Yes, he has to die. Fang Chen nodded.


    Very well. Go ahead and do it, Fang Canghai replied.


    The crowd was rendered speechless. <em>Wait, we thought you came here to stop your son!</em>


    The emperor widened his eyes in disbelief. He wagged his finger at Fang Canghai, but he was so angry that he couldnt utter a word.


    Will thatd really be able to return for dinner?


    By the corner of the crowd, Fang Cangyou looked at Fang Chen with an intrigued frown from his wheelchair. He hadnt expected Fang Chen to stir such a hugemotion. He also didnt think his older brother, who had always prioritized the bigger picture, would side with Fang Chen.


    But thats how we of the Fang n roll. Fang Cangyou burst intoughter.


    Behind Fang Cangyou, Xu Ges lips crept up too.


    Meanwhile, at a nearby building, a general dressed in silver armor coldly eyed Fang Chen with a bow in his hand.


    General Yan, His Majesty has already issued his order. You have to stop Fang Chen no matter what it takes. Zhou Xiu mustnt die! a eunuch said with a suppressed voice.


    His Majesty should know that Fang Chen has regained his Ki Manifestation martial cultivation. My arrow cant hope to hurt him, Yan Beihan grimly replied.


    General Yan, do you intend to defy an imperial order? the eunuch coldly asked.


    I understand. Yan Beihan slowly nodded as he drew his bow.


    Its gettingte. Zhou Xiu, you should get going. I pray youre born as an ordinary person in your next life; you should at least live a longer life than being a Longdu viscount, Fang Chen looked at the sky and sneered.


    Zhou Xius face turned pale. You really intend to kill me? Our emperor wont let this slide!


    Thats a matter for us to worry about. You dont have to bother about it since youll be dead by then. Fang Chen smiled.


    Just then, a sharp whooshing sound echoed. Fang Cangyou was the first one to realize what had happened, as this was an awfully familiar noise to him. <em>Yan Beihan, our Great Xias number one sniper, has made a move!</em>


    Commendable courage. Fang Chen shook his head with a smile.


    He raised his hand and suddenly clenched it tight. An arrow magically appeared in his grasp, with its tail still vibrating intensely froming to an abrupt halt. He had caught Yan Beihans arrow!


    The emperors expression crumbled at that sight.


    Fang Chen casually tossed the arrow back in the direction it came from, producing an even louder whooshing sound. A figure plummeted from a nearby building.


    General Yan!


    The soldiers from the Divine Sniper Battalion widened their eyes in disbelief. They couldnt believe that someone had one-upped theirmander with an arrow!


    Both of Yan Beihans legs had been pierced by the arrow. After his subordinates helped him into a sitting position, he gritted his teeth and pulled out the arrow.


    War God Fang is indeed formidable, Yan Beihan remarked with a bitter smile.


    He knew Fang Chen had done it on purpose. This was exactly how he crippled Fang Cangyou back then.


    A wave of deafening cheers broke out on the street.


    Hes dead! Countless Great Xia civilians roared.


    Yan Beihan closed his eyes in resignation. He knew that Zhou Xiu was dead, and he could imagine what would happen next.


    War God Fang, I hope you have a countermeasure in ce. Id willingly take more of such arrows if you can save Great Xia, or else Yan Beihan murmured.


    Before the imperial pces gate, Zhou Xius head dropped to the ground and rolled a far distance away. The Longdu schrs gasped in shock. Those from Guhe and Yizhou felt a sense of camaraderie with Longdu, as they imagined the same happening to them too.


    The officials of the imperial court fell silent.


    <em>The dust has settled.</em>


    Tell your people that even though I, Fang Chen, no longer have an army, I am still a Ki Manifestation expert. Not even your imperial pces can stop me. Show some respect to our Great Xias merchants. If anyone dares to harm our people, you can be certain Ill personally pay you a visit. Fang Chen looked at the schrs from the three countries and smiled.


    Your Majesty, we need to take him down! the crown prince eximed with a pale face.


    The emperor was silent for a few seconds before he let out a cold harrumph, flung his sleeves, and walked away. The officials of the imperial court had no choice but to follow him.


    The crown prince was stunned.


    The smarter ones could tell that those words were directed not just those from Longdu and the other countries, but those within Great Xia too.


    Your Highness, you shouldnt associate with such small fry. Far from reinforcing your position, theyll only drag you down. Fang Chen directed a smile at the crown prince before kicking aside Zhou Xius head. He then turned to Fang Canghai and said, Father, lets head home for dinner.


    Just like that, Fang Chen took his leave.


    But many amidst the crowd couldnt recover from their shock.


    Tao Yu and Ye Qinghe took a while before they snapped out of their daze and rushed over to the crown princes side.


    Is it possible that Fang Chen might stage a revolt in the future? the crown prince asked.


    The two of them were shocked speechless.


    Hmph! The crown prince harrumphed. He nced at Zhou Xius corpse before he turned around and took his leave. Somehow, his departing figure looked a little defeated.

 Chapter 62: Hanging the Corpse to Serve As An Example

    Chapter 62: Hanging the Corpse to Serve As An Example


    The Longdu schrs gathered before the imperial pce gates looked out of cepared to the bustling crowd around them. They were dazed from witnessing Fang Chen murdering Zhou Xiu before their eyes.


    In the end, a Longdu schr spoke up, There has to be a State War between Longdu and Great Xia. We cant allow a Longdu viscount to die in humiliation.


    These schrs were nobles in Longdu, albeit low-ranking ones. They werent even barons. Even so, they felt a sense of camaraderie toward nobles of the same country, especially when they were dealing with external threats!


    Yes, we have to start a State War!


    Great Xia has to pay at least ten thousand lives to offset the death of Viscount Zhou Xiu!


    And a few cities too!


    The Longdu schrs eximed impassionedly.


    One of them finally thought about collecting Zhou Xius decapitated head, and he was about to do so when he noticed a leg on it. He screeched in anger, and the other Longdu schrs blew their top too. <em>How could they humiliate him when hes already dead?</em>


    Those from Guhe and Yizhou couldnt take it and berated the person stepping on Zhou Xius head too.


    Xu Ge, the culprit standing on Zhou Xius head, grinned at the Longdu schrs and said, Viscount Zhou Xiu deserved to die. Our young master ordered me to hang his head and corpse at the southern gate as a warning to those who dare do the same.


    Sss! The Longdu schrs gasped. They stared at Xu Ge in disbelief. <em>Does Fang Chen intend to fall out with Longdu? Is he not worried about putting Great Xia at risk?</em>


    One of the Longdu schrs shook his finger at Xu Ge and bellowed, You arrogant fools! How dare you humiliate our Longdu like that? You take us to be pushovers! Let me tell you: it wont be long before we produce our Ki Manifestation martial artist! By then, well wage a State War on Great Xia and put you in your ce!


    The other Longdu schrs turned to that person in horror.


    Those from Guhe and Yizhou raised their eyebrows and exchanged looks.


    Oh? Someone in your Longdu is about to advance to Ki Manifestation? Xu Ge asked.


    That Longdu schr realized he had misspoken and hurriedly shut his mouth. Xu Ge didnt bother harping on the matter either. He picked up Zhou Xius head and corpse and made his way toward the southern city gate.


    Let go!


    A Longdu schr rushed forward to stop Xu Ge, only to be sent tumbling with a kick.


    The strongest one in their group was only at early Ki Explosion, so how could they be a match for Xu Ge? Not to mention there were Great Xia civilians eyeing them in the vicinity. They could only watch helplessly as Xu Ge left with Zhou Xius corpse.


    That day, Zhou Xius corpse was hung on the southern city gates.


    Those who entered the city couldnt help but nce at it. The Longdu schrs stared at it with eyes filled with sorrow and resentment.


    In the Fang Manor


    I heard you killed a Longdu viscount? Celestial Xiao looked at Fang Chen in intrigue. Arent you worried that they might team up with our Greenpine? Your Great Xia is in no position to withstand the bacsh from both our countries. Guhe and Yizhou will only gloat at your plight; they wont offer you a helping hand.


    You know that its inevitable too. It wont be long before Longdu sumbs to the temptation and works with Greenpine; Im just forcing their hand here, Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    You Celestial Xiao was bbergasted. Do you intend to wage a State War on Longdu? What in the world are you nning?!


    Someone intends to stir war among the countries. Id rather resolve it in advance than to let it simmer and blow up, Fang Chen calmly replied.


    Celestial Xiao finally understood Fang Chens intention. You intend to prematurely trigger the war to unravel whatever the enemy has in store. At the same time, Longdu would have less time to make preparations and mobilize their manpower, thus increasing your odds of victory.


    As expected of Marshall Xiaos daughter. You arent dumb at all, Fang Chen remarked.


    Celestial Xiao was gleeful. <em>This is apliment from Great Xias War God Wait, why should I feel happy about beingplimented by such a fellow? Hes an enemy! </em>


    I hope you resolve this matter soon so that I can return to Greenpine. Your Fang Manor might be big, but I have explored every nook and cranny. Im already bored out of my mind.


    Celestial Xiao paused before adding, That little nun you recently brought in is an interesting one though. Shes Abbess Clearlotus, right? I somehow feel calm listening to her chant.


    You should spend more time at our praying room listening to her chants. Itll be beneficial to you, Fang Chen said.


    Spirit ki was top-quality nourishment for martial artists, but it usuallyy dormant in the world, beyond the reach of mortals and martial artists. However, Abbess Clearlotus, as a second stage Ki Refinement cultivator, naturally channeled the flow of spirit ki whenever she chanted.


    This was the reason Fang Chen brought Abbess Clearlotus back. As much as Celestial Xiao could benefit from her chants, his parents could as well. In fact, the entire Fang Manor could benefit from her presence.


    Shortly after Zhou Xius corpse was hung at the southern city gate, a few groups of people dropped by the Fang Manor to pay their respect to Fang Chen. They were the managers ofrge merchant groups in Great Xia.


    Fang Chens move had ryed his stance to them. They were grateful that someone was willing to stand up for them in the current climate, and that prompted them to pay him a visit with gifts.


    None of them got to see Fang Chen, and the Fang Manor rejected their gifts too, but they were personally received by Fang Cangyou. He might be wheelchair-bound now, but as the second master of the Fang n, his standing was still much higher than that of ordinary merchants.


    The managers walked away with glowing faces, not feeling snubbed by the Fang Manor.


    What further delighted them was that they had received the Fang Manors word that they could approach them for help should a simr situation appear.


    Young master, Miss Fang is here, Huang Sihai reported to Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen looked at Huang Sihai and chuckled. Have you taken the Bone Tempering Pill? You look much bulkier now. Tell me the truthyou arent from our Great Xia, right?


    Huang Sihai rubbed his head and grinned. I just eat more than the others. The Bone Tempering Pill is amazing. I feel two times stronger after taking it.


    <em>Two times stronger? </em>Fang Chen nodded. <em>Huang Sihai was previouslyparable to an early Ki Control martial artist, but he should be around mid orte Ki Control now. </em>


    Xu Ge had distributed the remaining Bone Tempering Pills to the Shadow Guards, thus boosting its overall prowess once more.


    Which Miss Fang are you referring to? Fang Chen asked.


    Its Fang Qingyao, the manager of Verdant Apothecary Hall. Shes with the leader of the Striding Dragon Consortium, Li Maocai, Huang Sihai said. Ill turn them down if you arent interested in meeting them.


    Ill meet them, Fang Cchen said.


    At the guest room, an old man in his sixties fidgeted nervously in his seat.


    Seeing that, Fang Qingyao spoke up, Boss Li. War God Fang isnt as scary as you think.


    Im not afraid. Im excited, Li Maocai replied. It isnt just once or twice that members of our Striding Dragon Consortium suffered what your Verdant Apothecary Hall went through in recent years. War God Fangs willingness to stand up for ordinary civilians like us greatly improves our position. I dont know how I should thank him.


    It was then that Fang Chen walked into the guest room and smiled at Li Maocai. You need not thank me. People from Great Xia should not be treated in such a manner in the first ce.

 Chapter 63: Moonsunk Gold

    Chapter 63: Moonsunk Gold


    War God Fang! Li Maocai rushed forward and bowed to Fang Chen. Li Maocai pays respect to War God Fang!


    You need not stand on ceremony, Boss Li. Take a seat. Fang Chen gestured to the chairs before taking the main seat. He turned to Fang Qingyao and asked, Miss Fang, how is the handover of the Compassion Hallsing along? Has someone followed up with you yet?


    Fang Qingyao nodded with a look of wonderment. An official from the Bureau of Justice visited me to handle the handover. All of the capitals Compassion Hall is now under my name


    She was impressed by how efficient the handover was. An official from the Bureau of Justice actually personally paid her a visit to expedite the process. There werent many people in the capital who possessed as much influence as this.


    Thats good to hear. I can tell that Miss Fang has apassionate heart. The vulnerable people living in the Compassion Halls are in good hands, Fang Chen said with a nod.


    Rest assured, War God Fang! Our Striding Dragon Consortium will donate five thousand silver taels to each of the Compassion Halls every year! Li Maocai interjected.


    Fang Chens eyes lit up. He sped his fist at Li Maocai. Im heartened by Boss Lis generosity. Your donation will make it much easier for the Compassion Halls to help those in need.


    Im just doing what I should. Li Maocai nodded. There was a brief pause before he added, War God Fang, I prepared some humble gifts, and I hope youd ept them. Think of it as a token of my appreciation.


    Ill have to reject the gifts. I have turned down the gifts from the others too, Fang Chen replied with a nod. Just the thought is enough for me.


    Li Maocai got agitated hearing that. He anxiously turned to Fang Qingyao.


    Fang Qingyao revealed a helpless smile before turning to Fang Chen. War God Fang, Boss Li brought a rather unusual weapon here with him today. If you could just take a look at it


    Indeed, indeed. The other gifts are nothingthose are just secr possessions unworthy of someone as outstanding as War God Fangbut you have to take a look at that weapon! One of the consortiums managers brought it back three years ago, and it is incredible! Li Maocai said.


    <em>A weapon?</em>


    That piqued Fang Chens interest. Huang Sihai, Xu Ge, and Tie Ma heard those words and exchanged curious gazes too.


    No one in their right mind would offer a weapon to a n of generals. The fact that Boss Li brought a weapon here meant that there had to be something special about it.


    Allow me to take a look then, Fang Chen replied with a nod.


    Li Maocai gestured to his servant outside. A carriage was slowly pushed into the courtyard, leaving a heavy trail that indicated it was carrying something extremely heavy.


    What are you doing? Fang Cangyou arrived in his wheelchair.


    Quite a few guards also approached with intrigued looks.


    What is in that carriage for it to be that heavy? Did you stuff gold in there? Fang Cangyou asked in shock.


    Everyone, on the carriage is the weapon one of our consortiums managers brought back three years ago. Whats special about it is its weight!


    <em>Weight?</em>


    Fang Chen pried open the carriages curtain, only to find that it was empty inside except for a truncheon. It was amon weapon in Great Xia, and Guhe and Yizhou often equipped their foot soldiers with such weapons too.


    It was a four-edged, blunt weapon. What was unusual about this truncheon was its length.


    Great Xias truncheons were about 1.3 meters long. Guhe and Yizhous people were shorter, so their truncheons were around 1.15 meters long. However, the truncheon inside the carriage was at least 2 meters long!


    A truncheon?


    The crowd gathered around, and they frowned upon seeing the weapon. <em>A single truncheon was heavy enough to make the carriage leave such a heavy imprint on the ground?</em>


    War God Fang, this truncheon is no ordinary weapon. It looks normal, but its extraordinarily heavy. It took fourte Ki Condensation cultivators to move the truncheon onto the carriage, and they exhausted themselves moving it here, Li Maocai said. I have invited Ki Explosion martial artists to try out the truncheon, but they couldnt even carry it. I have no doubt its capable of unleashing formidable prowess if someone is able to wield it.


    It doesnt look that amazing though? Huang Sihai scoffed upon hearing how heavy the truncheon was.


    Give it a try, Old Huang, Fang Chen said.


    Sure thing. Look well, young master! Huang Sihai guffawed as he leaped onto the carriage and reached for the truncheon.


    Meanwhile, Tie Ma, Xu Ge, and the Fang Manors guards craned their necks over to take a closer look. Fang Zhixue, Celestial Xiao, and Abbess Clearlotus also rushed over to join themotion.


    How did the three of them get together? Fang Chen nced over.


    What a beautiful abbess! This maid also looks beautiful. Oh? Isnt that War God Fangs younger sister, Fang Zhixue? Fang Qingyaos gaze alternated among the three of them.


    Just then, Huang Sihai let out a roar and lifted the truncheon. The carriage couldnt withstand the weight and began shattering.


    With a reddened face, Huang Sihai lifted up the truncheon and swung it twice.


    Sss! Li Maocai gasped in awe. His servants were taken aback too. As expected of a Dragon General


    They couldnt believe that Huang Sihai could actually lift this truncheon and even swing it.


    How does it feel? Fang Chen asked.


    Huang Sihais face was bright red. The moment he tried to open his mouth, his strength suddenly slipped from his body, causing him to loosen his grip. The truncheon fell onto the ground, and the crowd felt the crowd shaking a little.


    Heh Xu Ge chuckled. Tie Ma smiled as well.


    Not even Huang Sihai was able to handle this weapon, so the two of them didnt bother to give it a try either. How could they lift a weapon that even Huang Sihai struggled to swing? It was likely that only a Ki Manifestation martial artist could wield it.


    War God Fang, youre a Ki Manifestation martial artist. You should be able to use it. Li Maocai sped his fist at Fang Chen.


    It is an extraordinary weapon. Boss Li, do you truly intend to gift it to me? Fang Chen asked.


    Id rather give it to you than to let it rot in our Striding Dragon Consortium. Even worse, an enemy martial artist might steal it and use it against our people. I humbly beseech War God Fang to ept this gift. Itd be safer to leave it at the Fang Manor even if you dont use it. Li Maocai sped his fist and bowed.


    Celestial Xiao widened his eyes. This weapon was more formidable than she had expected. If it really fell in Fang Chens hands, itd likely be a huge threat to Greenpine.


    This item Abbess Clearlotus looked at the truncheon with a tilted head. She sensed a surge of spirit ki on it. If she was not mistaken, this could be an artifact.


    Tsk tsk, I would have expected to find something like this in Great Xia. Thats an artifact forged out of Moonsunk Gold! It has to have at least twelve daosoul imprints. Thats some good stuff you have there! a light-hearted voice echoed.


    Unknowingly, a gray-robed daoist had appeared beside Abbess Clearlotus.

 Chapter 64: Terrifying Prowess!

    Chapter 64: Terrifying Prowess!


    The gray-robed daoist was none other than Li Daoye, who should have left several days ago.


    Abbess Clearlotus stared at him in surprise. I thought you left?


    I wanted to, but I couldnt bring myself to do so. I was the one who brought you to Great Xia. How can I face your master if you die here? Li Daoye spoke righteously. Thus, I decided to stay behind and join you all in your fight against


    He nced at the surrounding crowd and swallowed back the words Blood Spirit Cult. It would be best for mortals to steer clear of the cultivators affairs, lest it bring them trouble.


    Fang Cangyou was startled. He turned to the guards and hollered, Did you let him in?


    The guards reddened in embarrassment.


    Second uncle, he possesses exceptional means. Our guards cant stop him from slipping into the Fang Manor, Fang Chen exined. He turned to Li Daoye and asked, You know the origin of this item?


    Of course! Its Moonsunk Gold. I was lucky to have seen it a few times before. Its a superior material for forging artifacts. You can sense the spirit ki in the truncheon, right? It has at least twelve daosoul imprints. Its good stuff.


    Its just a pity that ordinary people cant use artifacts made out of Moonsunk Gold. Its demanding on ones soul, and it cant be activated without sufficient spirit ki.


    Li Daoyemented that he couldnt use or even steal this artifact as he was unable to lift it. Even a twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator wouldnt be able to use this trudgeon if their soul wasnt strong enough.


    Brother Fang, I advise you to sell it. Its worth a lot, Li Daoye said.


    Artifact Spirit ki Celestial Xiao first looked at Li Daoye, followed by Abbess Clearlotus, and her expression slowly turned weird.


    Itd be a waste to sell such good stuff. Fang Chen walked over to the trudgeon, looking as if he was going to pick it up.


    Li Daoye waved his hand and said, Brother Fang, as much as I am in awe of your cultivation, you wont be able to lift the artifact. Theres an empire called Moonsunk Country that specializes in the production of Moonsunk Gold, and their cultivators are born with strong souls. Only they are able to easily use such artifacts.


    By then, Fang Chen had already wrapped his hand around the trudgeons handle, and he slowly lifted it up. It wasnt as heavy as he had expected, and its grip felt better than ordinary weapons.


    Li Daoye was bbergasted.


    <em>What in the world is going on? This artifact clearly contains a high concentration of Moonsunk Gold, so how is he able to lift it so easily? This could only mean that his soul is far stronger than I have expected.</em>


    <em>The strength of a cultivators soul usually corresponds to their cultivation. Doesnt this mean that his cultivation </em>


    War God Fang is our Great Xias number one expert! Li Maocai eximed. <em>This artifact is made solely for Fang Chen. Hes the only one who can put it to good use!</em>


    In contrast, Huang Sihai and the others acted as if it was only normal. They had witnessed Fang Chens means before, so they werent surprised that he could lift the trudgeon with ease.


    Our Chener is formidable. That daoist doesnt know what hes talking about, Fang Cangyou scoffed.


    Li Daoye looked awkward. He saw Abbess Clearlotus looking at him too and quickly exined, Im just saying! It goes without saying that those who are strong can still lift the Moonsunk Gold! It appears that Brother Fang belongs in that category.


    The crowd paid no heed to Li Daoye and instead looked at the trudgeon in Fang Chens hand.


    As Fang Chen infused his spirit ki into the trudgeon, its daosoul imprints lit up one after another. All in all, there were twelve of them. It looked like a mystical artifact.


    <em>This artifact must have been lying around for a long time. It doesnt have its previous owners aura anymore</em>, Fang Chen thought with a smile. <em>That saves me days of effort. I can spend my time on other stuff instead. </em>


    Brother Fang, why dont you try out its prowess? Li Daoyes eyes lit up with curiosity. He was dying to know how powerful an artifact with twelve daosoul imprints was.


    Not here, Fang Chen said. Id tear down the Fang Manor. Why dont you and Clearlotus follow me to the mountain?


    Big brother, I want toe too! Fang Zhixue said.


    That wont do. Stay at home, Fang Chen bluntly rejected her.


    He didnt want her toe into contact with the world of cultivation yet. If an opportunity arose, he would find an immortal cultivation method for her and see if she had the talent to be an immortal cultivator.


    Under the rules of the Three Thousand Dao Gate, he couldnt impart the cultivation method he was learning right now to outsiders. Needless to say, he wouldnt impart a demonic art like the Blood Spirit Art to her either.


    An hourter, in a barren mountain in the capitals southern suburbs, Fang Chen stood before a giant boulder with Tie Ma, Xu Ge, Huang Sihai, Li Daoye, and Abbess Clearlotus behind him.


    The giant boulder was over forty meters tall, towering over them like a little hill. The group of them looked like ants before it.


    Fang Chen hesitantly lifted the trudgeon and gently tapped it against the giant boulder. A terrifying surge of spirit ki burst forth. He immediately lost around thirty percent of his spirit ki, but it was amplified many times by the trudgeon before being unleashed as sheer force.


    Without any sound, the hill was reduced to a heap of dust.


    Tie Ma: Sss!


    Xu Ge: Sss!


    Huang Sihai: Woahhh!


    Abbess Clearlotus: Oh


    Li Daoye: ?!?!


    The crowd was dumbfounded. Even Li Daoye and Abbess Clearlotus, despite being cultivators, were stunned by what they were witnessing too. A touch from the weapon actually disintegrated the giant boulder before them?


    What would happen if such force was exerted on a human instead?


    This is terrifying! As expected of an artifact with twelve daosoul imprints! With such force, you could threaten a Foundation Establishment cultivator Why cant I meet with such a fortuitous encounter? Li Daoye cried in indignation, though he knew that he wouldnt be able to use it even if he stumbled upon such an artifact.


    With this artifact in hand, itd be easier for War God Fang to purge Great Xia of Blood Spirit Cultists. This is good news. Abbess Clearlotus looked at Li Daoye with excited eyes.


    Indeed, indeed. Li Daoye perfunctorily nodded.


    <em>Blood Spirit Cult? Itd still be best to steer clear of them. If even a twelve daosoul imprint artifact harnesses such power, how strong would those Foundation Establishment and Golden Core cultivators from the Blood Spirit Cult be?</em>


    <em>It might not be beyond them to burn the sky and vaporize oceans!</em>


    Young master, congrattions on obtaining this treasure! Huang Sihai sped his fist and eximed. With this trudgeon, youll be able to bring down countless enemy soldiers with a single swing. Lets see who else dares to mess with our Great Xia!


    Tie Ma and Xu Ge were overjoyed too. Fang Chen bing stronger was good news to them.


    Its indeed a treasure, but it takes a lot out of me to use it, Fang Chen murmured.


    His cultivation was still not high enough yet. Hed be able to wield the trudgeon with greater ease if he was at sixth or seventh stage Ki Refinement, but for the time being, he could only use it as a trump card.


    With a sigh, he stowed the trudgeon into his storage ring. It was lucky that there was no concept of time or weight in the storage ring, so he could easily bring it around.

 Chapter 65: Yuan Zhuang Visits

    Chapter 65: Yuan Zhuang Visits


    The trudgeon was indeed a formidable weapon, but Fang Chens spirit ki was fully expended with just a couple of swings. On the bright side, his spirit ki capacity grew each time he depleted his spirit ki.


    However, the earlier test verified Fang Chens suspicion that it was a close-quartersbat artifact. It had toe into contact with its target to unleash its terrifying prowess. This meant that he couldnt rely on it to raise his cultivation.


    There werent enough barren mountains in the vicinity for him to tear down. Its destructive prowess was simply too great.


    What did you just do?! Is that a storage ring? Li Daoye was bbergasted.


    Storage rings were a unique artifact in the world of cultivation. They werentbat-oriented, but they were worth far more than ordinary artifacts. Possessing one was a status symbol.


    Young master, a Longdu schr let slip that one of their pinnacle Ki Control martial artists might advance to Ki Manifestation very soon, Xu Ge walked forward, sped his fist, and reported.


    Longdu has a total of seven pinnacle Ki Control martial artists. Three of them are dukes, and the remaining four are marquesses. Of them, Marquess Xian Yu is the most likely to advance to Ki Manifestation, Fang Chen said with a smile. If Longdu wages a State War on us, he would likely be their trump card.


    Brother Fang, theres no way mere martial artists can be a match for you. Why dont you march over and beat them into submission straight? We should quickly settle other issues so that we can focus our effort on dealing with the Blood Spirit Cult, Li Daoye said.


    I dont intend on revealing my identity as a cultivator yet. Theres no saying when the four remaining Blood Spirit Cultists will return to Great Xia, and how powerful they are, Fang Chen said. He turned to Li Daoye and asked, Speaking of which, why did you suddenly return?


    Sometimes, a man cant run away from his responsibilities. I Li Daoye was about to go on a long rant when he saw Fang Chens prating gaze. That made him feel embarrassed, so he sheepishly smiled and honestly replied, An enemy came knocking. I dont know how he found me, but Id be dead meat if he gets his hands on me. After some consideration, I decided to turn to you for help.


    Abbess Clearlotus was angered to hear that. She naively thought Li Daoye had changed his mind because he couldnt let the Blood Spirit Cultists harm more innocent people, but who could have thought that he was just using Fang Chen to seek refuge from his enemy?


    Youre intending to make use of our young master? Old Huangs eyes widened as he grabbed Li Daoyes neck.


    Xu Ge ced his sword on Li Daoyes neck too. Tie Ma coldly eyed Li Daoye from head to toe, as if deciding where he should cut first.


    Li Daoye was stunned. He released a gleam of white light that knocked Old Huang and Xu Ge several steps back.


    Audacious!


    Without any hesitation, the three of them activated their Protection Talisman, Flitting Talisman, and Strength Talisman, greatly enhancing their fighting prowess, before charging at Li Daoye once more to beat him up.


    What the hell?! Protection Talisman, Flitting Talisman and Strength Talisman?! Brother Fang, did you raid the house of a talisman master?! Li Daoye eximed while dodging their attacks.


    These talismans werent cheap, but these three martial artists used three each. This was worth a lot of low-grade ki stones!


    Li Daoye was at third stage Ki Refinement, so his physical prowess was roughly on par with them. He was barely able to fend against them through the superiority of his spirit ki.


    This standstillsted for around ten seconds then Li Daoye fell in defeat. He could only lie in a scrunched position and protect his vitals with his spirit ki while the other three pummeled him.


    Enough, Fang Chen said.


    The three of them finally backed to the side.


    Say, Brother Fang hasnt even said a word yet. The three of you dont have to be in a rush to attack me! Li Daoye cried.


    Anyone who dares make use of our young master, even if its just a thought, deserves to die, Xu Ge coldly murmured.


    <em>Such loyal dogs</em>, Li Daoye snorted in his heart. He sped his fist at Fang Chen and subserviently bowed. Brother Fang, if you help me this once, Ill return the favor in the future.


    How will you return the favor? You dont intend to make an enemy out of the Blood Spirit Cult? Fang Chen pointed out.


    I wont directly oppose the Blood Spirit Cult, but I, as a disciple of the Eight Trigrams Sect, am skilled in the art of omen reading. Thats how we found the Compassion Hall in the first ce, Li Daoye said.


    <em>Omen reading? </em>Fang Chens curiosity was piqued. Tell me more about it.


    Omen reading isplicated, so it''ll be hard to exin how it works. Let me put it this waywherever theres bloodshed, Ill be able to find it through my omen reading. That should be useful to Brother Fang, right? Li Daoye asked.


    Indeed. Thatd be useful. Fang Chen nodded. How strong is your enemy?


    Fifth stage Ki Refinement, Li Daoye hurriedly replied.


    Tell me more about him. Fang Chen smiled.


    The group returned to the Fang Manor.


    Li Maocai was anxiously waiting for them. Fang Qingyao also looked at them with curious eyes, wanting to know how the experiment went.


    Fang Zhixue stood by the side with a pout. She intentionally averted her eyes when Fang Chen looked in her direction.


    Ill ept the trudgeon, Fang Chen said.


    Thank you, War God Fang! Li Maocai was overjoyed.


    Shortly after, he took his leave. They didnt say anything else, as if this was merely a normal meeting, but both sides knew that the Striding Dragon Consortium had found a strong backing today!


    Miss Fang, you may report anything concerning the Compassion Halls directly to me. Feel free to drop by our Fang Manor whenever youre free, Fang Chen said with a nod.


    Big brother, I can at least help out in the Compassion Halls, right? I chatted with big sister Qingyao while you were out. Those people are really pitiful, so I want to work with big sister Qingyao to help them, Fang Zhixue said.


    I thought youre only interested in martial arts? Fang Chen was intrigued.


    Fang Zhixue had been a martial art fanatic from a young age, or else she wouldnt have advanced to Ki Explosion at such a young age. She was one of the strongest martial artists among the youths in the capital.


    Father and mother told me not to spend all my time on martial arts, or else it wont be easy for me to find a husband in the future. Im just following what they said, Fang Zhixue replied.


    Sure, you may help out at the Compassion Halls. Fang Chen gave the matter some thought before nodding.


    Fang Zhixue was thrilled. She grabbed Fang Qingyaos arm and ran off with thetter.


    Xu Ge, keep an eye on her, Fang Chen instructed.


    Xu Ge nodded before silently following Fang Qingyao.


    The Compassion Halls had ties with the Blood Spirit Cult.


    When the remaining four Blood Spirit Cultists returned to Great Xia and found theirrades gone, they would investigate the matter from the Compassion Halls. That would draw their eyes to Fang Chen and Fang Qingyao.


    There was a chance that they mighty their hands on Fang Zhixue too, so he would have dispatched Xu Ge to protect her even if she didnt get involved with the Compassion Halls.


    Xu Ge had the mid-grade Purple Lightning Talismans with him, so he should be able to instantly take down normal cultivators.


    The following day, Yuan Yu and Yuan Zhuang paid a visit to the Fang Manor.


    Yuan Zhuang was faring much better now. The Court of Great Brilliance had found a renowned physician to treat him.


    Young master, thank you for saving my life! Yuan Zhuang kneeled down and kowtowed.


    Officials shouldnt kneel to civilians, but hardly anyone in Great Xia would really treat Fang Chen as a normal civilian.

 Chapter 66: Longdu Envoy

    Chapter 66: Longdu Envoy


    Rise. Are you feeling better now? Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    Yuan Zhuang rose to his feet. I have mostly recovered, except for some superficial injuries.


    Ki Explosion martial artists have more robust constitutions. Fang Chen nodded. You were captured by the Valiant Defenders while working on my case. Do you feel aggrieved?


    Not at all, young master. The Valiant Defenderss actions only proves that theres something more to those disappearances, Yuan Zhuang said with a suppressed voice. The two centurions interrogating me wanted to know how much you know about this matter. They are feeling conscience-stricken, which shows that they have a part to y in this.


    Yuan Yus gaze turned grim.


    The two of them hade here with the conviction that they might die working on this case. This case involved even the Valiant Defenders, and the person behind the Valiant Defenders was none other than the emperor!


    If the Valiant Defenders could capture Yuan Zhuang without any warning this time, there was no saying that they might silence him for good next time!


    Vice Minister Qin has been captured by the Bureau of Justice, and Minister Jiang has gotten quite a bit out of him. We should be able to conclude a portion of the disappearance cases, Fang Chen said.


    Such a thing happened? Yuan Zhuang was thrilled to hear that.


    He had been recuperating in recent days, and no one from the Court of Great Brilliance updated him as they didnt want to distract him from his recovery.


    Yuan Yu breathed a sigh of relief. <em>It looks like we can finally conclude this case.</em>


    But there are more people behind this case who havent been caught yet. Are you willing to continue looking into it? Fang Chen asked.


    Yuan Yu was stunned. <em>This case isnt over yet?</em>


    Young master, do you capture the aplices in Valiant Defenders too? Yuan Zhuang asked with a suppressed voice. They might have only received Vice Minister Qins bribe.


    This was a risky move as they could end up dragging out a string of high-profile officials, such as the Court of Great Brilliances Supervisor Li Huafeng, though he didnt say it aloud since he didnt have evidence to prove his suspicions.


    Would you believe me if I say that Vice Minister Qin isnt the mastermind but a pawn in this matter? Fang Chen asked.


    This Yuan Zhuang was stunned. <em>Just how big is this matter that even a vice minister is a mere pawn? Doesnt that mean that the mastermind is at least at the level of a minister?</em>


    Young master, Niu Jue from Valiant Defenders is here, a servant walked over and reported.


    Valiant Defenders! Yuan Zhuang and Yuan Yu trembled. Rage flicked in their eyes.


    Invite him in, Fang Chen replied.


    Soon, Niu Jue entered with a few subordinates. He quickly sped his fist and bowed to Fang Chen, saying, Paying respect to War God Fang.


    Yuan Zhuang and Yuan Yu red at Niu Jue.


    Did Xiao Shence send you here? Fang Chen asked.


    War God Fang is sharp-witted as ever. Niu Jue stepped aside to reveal two emaciated fellows.


    Yuan Zhuang was infuriated to see those two emaciated fellows. They were the centurions who interrogated him in the Valiant Defenders barracks!


    Young master, they are the centurions who interrogated me. Yuan Zhuang tried to keep his voice asposed as possible.


    War God Fang, we are innocent! We received orders from Enforcement Envoy Liu to interrogate Rectifier Yuan! We dont know anything at all! The two of them kneeled down and kowtowed to Fang Chen, hoping to be spared.


    The next thing youre going to tell me is that Enforcement Envoy Liu has escaped? Fang Chen asked with a mocking smile.


    Startled, Niu Jue stared at Fang Chen in a daze. <em>Does he have a spy in our Valiant Defenders?</em> He snapped out of his daze and nodded. War God Fang, Enforcement Envoy Liu escapedst night. Someone saw him escape from the capital, but we dont know his exact whereabouts. We have dispatched all our men to pursue him.


    I understand. Send them to the Court of Great Brilliance to be interrogated, Fang Chen ordered with a smile.


    Niu Jue had expected as much. These two centurions were unlucky to have offended Fang Chen and the Court of Great Brilliance. With Enforcement Envoy Liu having made his escape, they were doomed to be their punching bag.


    Chiliarch Niu, are you heading to the Court of Great Brilliance right now? Ille with you. Yuan Zhuangs eyes glowed menacingly.


    Ill be troubling Rectifier Yuan to lead the way then, Niu Jue replied with a smile.


    Once they had taken their leave, Tie Ma walked up to Fang Chen and asked in confusion, Young master, what does the Valiant Defenders mean by this?


    Theyre telling me not to follow Enforcement Envoy Lius trail. I reckon a number of officials will be stripped of their positions and thrown into the Bureau of Justices jail in the next few days, Fang Chen replied with aposed smile.


    Enforcement Envoy Lius escape meant that his subordinates would be his scapegoats.


    It was likely under the emperors intention that Xiao Shence had Chiliarch Niu Jue make a trip over to make peace with him. This meant that the person behind this case was someone whom even the emperor was reluctant to deal with.


    Keep a close eye on the crown prince. I want to know whether he made a move out of his private grudge against me or that hes involved in this matter too, Fang Chen ordered.


    Tie Ma nodded. Our men have been keeping an eye on him.


    Dayster, Vice Minister Qins case finally blew up. All in all, 35 officials of varying ranks across the Six Bureaus were found to be involved in the case, and there was a crackdown on a number of affluent ns in the capital too.


    Great Xias civilians learned that the Compassion Halls had beenmitting evil deeds thus far, and many people had lost their lives as a result.


    However, the imperial court didnt release the specific details, and they didnt know that those innocent people had been sacrificed for Master Xu Huis demonic cultivation.


    Enforcement Envoy Liu wasbeled as a fugitive wanted by Great Xia too.


    In the Fang Manor, Fang Chen was busy drawing talismans.


    The surrounding spirit ki rushed into his body and slowly formed another immortal vein, significantly raising his spirit ki capacity. This was his fourth immortal vein.


    Fourth stage Ki Refinement Immortal cultivation is pretty easy, Fang Chen remarked.


    With this, he had finally regained his previous level of strength, just that his inner ki had now turned into spirit ki.


    This breakthrough took a few days longer than the previous. It looks like itll get progressively harder for me to raise my cultivation. Still, I should be able to surmount the twelve stages of Ki Refinement soon. Once I reach Foundation Establishment, Ill have to start making my way to the Three Thousand Dao Gate in the Center Continent Country, so I need to settle everything in Great Xia before then Fang Chen murmured.


    He peered into his storage ring.


    The Greenwood Puppet, the Moonsunk Gold Truncheon, and two hundred low-grade ki stones were stacked by the corner.


    He had previously drawn 500 low-grade Purple Lightning Talismans, all of which he distributed to his Shadow Guards.


    On top of that, he had also drawn over 200 mid-grade Purple Lightning Talismans, almost depleting the spirit materials he had previously bought from Dragonback Lane. He gave a portion to his close aides, such as Huang Sihai, Tie Ma, Xu Ge, and Jade Fairy.


    With such aces, his close aides would be able to subdue fourth or fifth rank Ki Refinement cultivators. They might even be able to take down a sixth rank Ki Refinement cultivator if they came together and bombarded thetter with their mid-grade Purple Lightning Talismans.


    Unknowingly, the Great Xia Shadow Guards had grown frighteningly powerful.


    Young master, Longdus envoy has arrived, Tie Ma stepped forward and reported.

 Chapter 67: Number One Expert of the Southern Land

    Chapter 67: Number One Expert of the Southern Land


    At the southern city gate, toons of cavalrymen stood in a neat formation. Standing at the center of the formation was a stern-looking schr who looked to be in his forties, and he was staring lividly at Zhou Xius hung corpse.


    Being basked under the sun for long hours had caused Zhou Xius corpse to emit a nasty stench, and a light breeze whiffed it over to the schr.


    Great Xia has gone too far! How can they humiliate a Longdu viscount even after his death?! the middle-aged schr enunciated each of his words through gritted teeth,


    Baron Xian, are we still entering the city? Why dont we throw the State War Tablet and leave? one of the cavalrymen asked.


    Our duke has said it. We have to enter the city, berate the emperor for the atrocities Great Xia hasmitted, then toss the State War Tablet at them. We must ensure that Guhe and Yizhou see it, Baron Xian sneered. He turned to his men and ordered, Someone, take down Viscount Zhou Xius body!


    A cavalryman was just about to speak when a group of people walked out of the southern city gate. Leading the group was the Minister of Rites Tao Mingsheng, and he was apanied by the officials of the Bureau of Rites.


    From afar, Tao Mingsheng sped his fist and greeted Baron Xian, It has been a while, Brother Xian!


    Minister Tao. Baron Xians expression alleviated a little. <em>At least Great Xia has the courtesy to dispatch their Minister of Rites, a second-grade official, to wee me. That would be roughly equivalent to a marquess in our country. </em>


    His Majesty knows about Baron Xians intention. Please follow me into the imperial pce to meet His Majesty, Tao Mingsheng said.


    Minister Tao, our Longdu has always been on good terms with your country, but Fang Chen murdered our viscount under broad daylight. May I know what your emperors stance on this matter is? Baron Xian asked coldly.


    Hundreds of Longdu cavalrymen coldly red at Tao Mingsheng and the others too.


    Its a misunderstanding, Tao Mingsheng said. Fang Chen is indeed rash, and His Majesty understands that. Please follow me into the imperial pce to meet His Majesty. Theres still room for reconciliation between Great Xia and Longdu.


    Before that, I want you to return our viscounts body first, Baron Xian said.


    Tao Mingsheng fell silent. He looked at his subordinates, but all of them averted their eyes.


    What a joke! Minister Tao, your officials from the Bureau of Rites are timid like a mouse. You fear a fangless tiger! Baron Xian sneered.


    Baron Xian, there has been an upheaval in our Great Xia. Fang Chen recently used our Vice Minister of a crime, and over thirty officials were implicated in the matter. All of them are going to be executed in front of the imperial pces gates a few dayster, Tao Mingsheng said with a sigh.


    Vice Minister Qin Dong? But hes a third-grade official! Why is he on death row? Baron Xian was taken aback. <em>Does Fang Chen be so influential in Great Xia as to be able to kill a third-grade official just like that?</em>


    Well talk about thister. For now, Baron Xian, please follow me into the imperial pce, Tao Mingsheng said.


    Quite a number of Great Xia civilians had gathered in the area to observe the situation. Tao Mingsheng didnt want to linger in the area lest something went amiss. If so, there would really be no room for reconciliation between Great Xia and Longdu!


    Men, take Viscount Zhou Xius body down, Baron Xian ordered.


    Two cavalrymen stepped out. Both of them galloped toward the southern city gate; one of them went to retrieve the head, whereas the other one went to retrieve the body.


    Bam bam!


    Someone sent the twote Ki Condensation cavalrymen with a kick each. The two cavalrymen crashed into the ground, and their horses fled back into the military formation in rm.


    Baron Xian was infuriated. He red at the assant and asked, Who are you?!


    Seven Profound Saber Huangfu Jie! the person replied.


    Seven Profound Saber? When did he enter the capital?


    Thats the number one expert of the southern region!


    Seven Profound Saber rarely steps into the capital. What business does he have here?


    Amotion broke out amidst the crowd. Most of them had heard about Seven Profound Saber Huangfu Jie.


    Great Xia could be divided into the northern region and the southern region. The capital was located in the northern region, and it was a far distance away from the southern region. If the northern region was ruled by the imperial court, the southern region was lorded over by the pugilistic world.


    Most of the major martial sects were based in the southern region.


    Seven Profound Saber Huangfu Jie was the son of the Profound Saber Sects sectmaster, but his strength had long surpassed his father. As he revealed his edge, some began to dub him as the number one expert of the southern region.


    Seven Profound Saber? Baron Xian frowned. He coldly eyed Tao Mingsheng and asked, Minister Tao, a mere pugilist dares to attack my party and stop us from retrieving our viscounts body. Is this your Great Xias stance? Since thats the case, theres no need for us to meet your emperor anymore. Ill leave the State War Tablet here and meet you on the battlefield!


    Tao Mingsheng angrily red at Seven Profound Saber Huangfu Jie and bellowed, How dare a pugilist interfere in the imperial courts affair? Men, take him down!


    Several figures instantaneously encircled Huangfu Jie.


    As the Minister of Rites, it was normal for Tao Mingsheng to have powerful guards constantly by his side, lest someone attack him.


    War God Fang said that Zhou Xius corpse must remain here as a warning to the other countries. Anyone who tries to take down the corpse is helping the evildoers, Huangfu Jie calmly replied.


    The powerful guards encircling Huangfu Jie froze up. It was one thing to subdue Huangfu Jie, but thetter was backed by War God Fang! Thest thing they wanted to do was to make an enemy out of War God Fang.


    Tao Mingsheng was infuriated. <em>Is a mere pugilist trying to suppress me with War God Fangs name too? </em>Do you know who you are in the presence of? He is Longdus envoy, Baron Xian! He has the right to retrieve Viscount Zhous body! A pugilist like you cant take responsibility if your reckless actions today undermine the good rtionship between Longdu and Great Xia!


    He amplified his voice with his Ki Condensation martial cultivation, causing his words to echo loudly.


    Thats none of my business. Im only in charge of doing War God Fangs bidding. Huangfu Jieughed heartily in response.


    Indeed! Thats a decision made by War God Fang. We cant let others undermine it, even if its Longdus envoy!


    That Zhou bastard hunted down our merchants as if they were livestock. He has iting!


    I heard the merchant convoy he hunted belongs to the Verdant Apothecary Hall. Its manager, Miss Fang, took over the Compassion Halls and is taking care of the vulnerable. The medicine they sell is also affordable.


    Such discussions echoed in the surroundings.


    Tao Mingshengsplexion turned horrible. He was just about to speak when he spotted another figure walking over. It was one of Fang Chens subordinates, Windcloud Sword Xu Ge!


    Xu Ge, you have reached Ki Control? Huangfu Jie took a look at Xu Ge before frowning in bewilderment. Clearly, he was acquainted with thetter.


    Heh, I didnt expect to see you in the capital. We should have another duel soon. I dont think Ill lose to you this time around! Xu Ge chuckled.


    Sure. Huangfu Jie nodded.


    Xu Ge grinned. He turned to Tao Mingsheng and shouted, Minister Tao, our young master has said that no one is allowed to touch Zhou Xius corpse, not even Longdus envoy. Anyone who tries to do so will have to face the consequences.


    Tao Mingsheng was so angry that steam coulde out from his seven apertures. Baron Xians face also turned so livid, and he nearly tossed out the State War Tablet there and then.


    Quick trivia from Starve:


    The tablet (State War Tablet) here is a wooden block, and it serves as an expression of intent. To draw a parallel, its simr to how medieval knights took off their gloves or gauntlets and threw it at someone else to challenge them to a duel.

 Chapter 68: Our Tenacity Survives!

    Chapter 68: Our Tenacity Survives!


    You two brutes! Do you know why Longdus envoy is here today? You wont be able to take responsibility if a war breaks out between Longdu and Great Xia as a result of your actions! a furious bellow echoed.


    Just then, Tao Yu and Ye Qinghe stepped out of the crowd with a group of young scions and schrs. Ye Qinghe pointed his finger at Xu Ge and Huangfu Jie and reprimanded them.


    Some of Great Xias civilians fell into contemtion. Whispers could be heard amidst the crowd.


    Hes right. How many people will die if Longdu wages war against our Great Xia?


    Thats not the worst yet. If we are defeated in a State War, we would have to pay Longdu an astronomical sum. By then,moners like us wouldnt be able to fill our stomachs anymore!


    Itll be best not to fight a war. War just causes death and makes us poor


    Tao Yu was delighted to hear that the civilians didnt want to go to war with Longdu. He opened his arms wide and spoke aloud, War God Fang must still be dreaming of his days of glory. Hes taunting other countries to start a war, so that he would have a legitimate reason to take control of the army once more. You mustnt be fooled by him!


    Great Xia is in no position to fight a war. Wed suffer a great setback if we let War God Fang have his way. By then, itd be impossible for us to make aeback anymore!


    Young master Tao is right. The two of you are renowned martial artists of our Great Xia. Itd be wonderful if you can discern right from wrong and consider the interests of our people for once.


    We might be able to avert this crisis if the two of you step aside and allow Longdus envoy to collect Viscount Zhou Xius body. Think about how many lives would be saved!


    The young scions and schrs whom Tao Yu and Ye Qinghe brought with them also spoke their piece too.


    Step aside, Windcloud Sword. This matter concerns national security. You shouldnt fool around here, a martial artist stepped forward from the crowd and spoke up.


    This martial artist was famous in the capital too, being once dubbed one of the top ten pinnacle Ki Explosion martial artists alongside Xu Ge.


    A few other martial artists stepped forward too.


    While they thought Zhou Xiu was deserving of punishment, they were still more inclined toward peace rather than war. The deaths of their family members and friends five years ago were still fresh in their minds. They didnt want to go through that again.


    Xu Ge nced at the martial artists before shaking his head. To think youre martial artists. Have your brains gone rusty from your training? Longdu nobles have begun treating our people like livestock. A war is already inevitable. Do you think theyll change for the better if we swallow our pride and back down here? Youd be naive if you think so.


    The crowd fell in deep thought. Deep down, they knew Xu Ge was right. Even so, they couldnt help but think that they could at least enjoy another day of peace if they dyed the war.


    Great Xia was in no position to engage in a State War. Fang Chen was at Ki Manifestation, yes, but even if he could subdue ten thousand soldiers, could he oppose a million soldiers all on his own?


    Hah. Huangfu Jie sneered at the martial artists. He turned to Tao Yu and scoffed, I would have never thought our people would be so cowardly. They would sell out their dignity and future for the sake of intermittent peace. Youd rather remainmbs waiting to be ughtered than to muster your courage to fight against fate.


    What do you mean? Ye Qinghes eyes turned cold.


    Nothing much. Even a martial artist like me can see that our Great Xia ought to band together in this moment of vulnerability to fight against enemies who try to trample on us, rather than to act like a bunch of helpless sheeps awaiting our enemies butcher knives.


    Huangfu Jie burst intoughter. He pointed at the crowd and questioned, If the ones being hunted like livestock are your parents, your spouse, and your siblings, would you still continue tolerating our enemies oppression for the sake of peace?


    He paused for a second before adding, Such a pity I wasnt around when War God Fang purged Greenpines martial artists from the capital, or else I could have killed some with my own hands. Do you think War God Fang purged them because they humiliated our people? Hahaha! If thats what you think, youre being too short-sighted. War God Fang was telling Greenpine that Great Xia remains as ferocious as ever. Our tenacity survives!


    Our tenacity survives


    Many Great Xia civilians in the area lowered their heads in deep thought. Their eyes slowly lit up, as their view on the matter began to change.


    A boor dares to utter nonsense!


    Tao Mingsheng had reached the city gate with his people at some point in time, and he ordered one of his officials to lower Zhou Xius body. The official cursed under his breath, but he couldnt defy Tao Mingshengs direct order.


    Just then, a number of Great Xias civilians took a step forward and red at him.


    This The official felt goosebumps rising all over his body. He dared not to make a move.


    Tao Mingsheng grasped the situation from the civilians gazes. <em>Its not possible for us to take down Zhou Xius corpse anymore.</em> Thus, he turned to Baron Xian and said, Baron Xian, why dont you enter the imperial pce and meet His Majesty first? Once we talk things over, His Majesty will surely order Viscount Zhou Xius body to be let down. I doubt that Fang Chen will dare directly defy an imperial order.


    Baron Xiansplexion looked awful. Secondster, he waved his sleeves and bellowed, Enter the city!


    Hundreds of Longdu cavalrymen entered the city together with Baron Xian and Tao Mingsheng. The cavalrymen would reflexively look at Zhou Xius corpse when they went under it, and their faces looked terrible.


    Tao Yu and the others could only back down, seeing how even Tao Mingsheng had given up.


    After all of them left, Xu Ge suddenly remarked with a chuckle, Brother Huangfu, your mouth is as impressive as ever.


    Its best to reason things out when its possible to do so, Huangfu Jie replied with a smile.


    Who would have known that the Seven Profound Saber would be such a reasonable person? What brings you into the capital though? Xu Ge asked.


    Something happened in the southern region. Huangfu Jies expression suddenly turned grim. He discreetly scanned his surroundings. This isnt the ce to talk. Bring me to War God Fang. I have something to report.


    Come with me. Xu Ges expression turned serious too. Something major must have happened to bring such a grim look to Huangfu Jies face.


    Shortly after Huangfu Jie and Xu Ge left, a person arrived at the southern city gate.


    He looked at Zhou Xius hanging corpse and frowned. Such cruel means. The dead should be allowed to rest in peace.


    However, he didnt meddle in the matter. He took out apass and inspected it. Secondster, he cackled as he made his way into the city.


    Im a bit thirsty. Let me get a sip of tea first. That brat cant have gotten far anyway. He probably doesnt know that I have already caught up with him, he murmured. He made his way toward a tea stand located under the shade and said, Waiter, bring me two cups of tea.


    Coming right up, daoist!


    The waiter acknowledged the order with a nod. He quickly headed toward the tea stand to prepare tea for the customer.


    Dont call me daoist! The person red at the waiter and harrumphed.


    Is that him?


    Looks the same as in the portrait.


    What are the two of you mumbling among yourselves? the person grumbled impatiently. Hurry up and bring me my tea!


    Before he knew it, the person received two strikes on the back of his head. Hisst thought before fainting was: <em>Is this ce a bandits den?! Im ordering tea in broad daylight in the middle of the street, and I still got assaulted?</em>

 Chapter 69: Escaping from the Capital

    Chapter 69: Escaping from the Capital


    Lying in the Shadow Courtyard was a tightly-bound daoist.


    The daoist opened his eyes and found himself lying by the corner of a room. He immediately lost his temper and cursed under his breath while trying to free himself from his ropes.


    What lousy ce is this? Why did they make a move on me for no reason? Those people are audacious! If they know Im a cultivator, theyd kneel before me and call me grandpa! Luckily, no one will know about this. If others learn that I was knocked out by a mortal Goddamnit! I dont think anyone will believe me even if I share it with them!


    I believe you, a voice sounded.


    The daoist was startled. He turned over and saw a young man looking at him with a smile.


    How long have you been there? The daoist was shaken up. He couldnt believe that he didnt sense the young mans presence. <em>How could this be possible? </em>


    Cultivators had extremely sharp senses, not to mention that he was a fifth stage Ki Refinement cultivator. He should be considered a top-notch expert here!


    I have been here all this while. Fang Chen smiled. How should I address you?


    Were you the one who attacked me? What do you want? The daoist looked at Fang Chen with wintry eyes.


    Just then, a bolt of lightning sted a deep hole right next to the daoists leg, causing the daoist to shudder in fright. He stared at Fang Chen in disbelief. You are a cultivator?


    How should I address you? Fang Chen asked once more.


    I am Ming Jing, Ming Jing hesitantly replied.


    Li Daoye said that youre after his life. Is that true?


    Youre in cahoots with him! Ming Jing finally understood why he had been knocked out.


    Li Daoye is going to do something for me. If possible, Id like to resolve the grudge between the two of you, Fang Chen said.


    Grudge? What grudge? Ah, I get it! That brat is spouting nonsense again! Ming Jing widened his eyes in fury. I am an elder of the Eight Trigrams Sect, and Li Daoye is our young master. His father found a partner for him and hoped that he could marry into the womans n, but that brat escaped. Im here to drag him back to fulfill the marriage!


    I see Fang Chen nodded in realization. But Li Daoye has offended the Blood Spirit Cult. Will he bring trouble to your Eight Trigrams Sect if he returns like that?


    W-what?! Ah, there has been a misunderstanding. The person Im looking for is Li Baoye, not Li Daoye. I must have gotten to the wrong ce. Ill take my leave right now! Ming Jing sped his fist and anxiously tried to leave.


    You might bump into a Blood Spirit Cultist if you leave like that, Fang Chen said.


    Ming Jings footsteps halted. He slowly turned around and asked with eyes filled with horror, There are Blood Spirit Cultists here?


    Fang Chen nodded. They are intending to forge Blood Spirit Divine Pills here. Li Daoye bumped into them by coincidence and even killed one of their cultivators


    Sss! Ming Jing gasped. His body trembled nonstop. I really dont know any Li Daoye. I have nothing to do with him or the Eight Trigrams Sect at all!


    When Li Daoye killed the Blood Spirit Cultist, he said something along the lines of having an elder in his sect to back himMing Jing or something, I believe. The Blood Spirit Cultsckey should have heard it loud and clear, Fang Chen said.


    Wheres he right now? Is he hiding somewhere safe? Can you bring me there to seek refuge too? Ming Jing asked with a ghastly pale face.


    The ce hes at isnt safe but if you dont mind, I can arrange for you to stay at an inn first. Its unlikely that the Blood Spirit Cult wille knocking at your door yet. Ill find an opportunity for you to meet Li Daoye. You can bring him back then, Fang Chen said.


    Ill be counting on you. Ming Jing nodded in gratitude.


    A few people silently appeared to take Ming Jing away and check him into an inn, but as soon as they left, Ming Jing secretly kept his luggage and fled from the capital.


    Those people returned to the Shadow Courtyard and reported to Fang Chen, Young master, the daoist has escaped from the capital.


    I doubt hell return anytime soon. Fang Chen smiled. He waved his hand and said, You may leave now.


    While Fang Chen was making his way back to the Fang Manor, he bumped into Xu Ge and Huangfu Jie. He smiled at thetter and said, Its been a while, Huangfu Jie. Have you made any advancements in your martial cultivation over the years?


    War God Fang, I have reached pinnacle Ki Control after five years of hard work, Huangfu Jie proudly replied.


    He hadnt reached Ki Manifestation despite being older than Fang Chen, but putting Fang Chen aside, his talent was definitely top-notch across Great Xia.


    You prefer to stay in the south. What brings you to the capital? Fang Chen asked.


    Something huge has happened. I came here today to seek War God Fangs advice. Itd be best if you could dispatch some of your top investigators to the south, Huangfu Jie said grimly.


    Tell me about it, Fang Chen replied.


    One of the Four Great Sects of our southern region, the Heavensword Mountain Vi, has been massacred overnight. The deceased have been reduced to withered corpses, as if they have died for many years, but its young master was still drinking and sparring with me just a few days prior to the incident, Huangfu Jie said with a suppressed voice.


    Something is really weird about this matter. Even our Profound Saber Sect doesnt have the strength to wipe out the Heavensword Mountain Vi in a single night, let alone leave them in such a bizarre state.


    Shortly after, a few other minor sects were massacred too. Only a handful of disciples who happened to be out of the sect when the massacre happened escaped the ordeal.


    This incident plunged our southern region into turmoil. The Valiant Defenders there were unable to find the culprit either. Many people have turned their fingers to our Profound Saber Sect, saying that were the ones rocking the boat. If we dont get to the bottom of this matter, even the Valiant Defenders might make a move on us soon.


    You mentioned withered corpses? Fang Chens face darkened.


    Yes, withered corpses. I saw it with my own eyes! Huangfu Jie nodded.


    Xu Ges eyebrows shot up. He already had an idea what was going on.


    A while back, Master Xu Hui told Qin Dong that his Senior Bei had temporarily headed elsewhere to attend to some matters, and he brought the others with him. My guess is that Senior Bei is the leader of the Blood Spirit Cultists stationed here.


    It could be possible that they passed by the southern region on their way back, so they conveniently absorbed the blood essence of the martial artists there to further their cultivation. Alternatively, it could also be the doing of another Blood Spirit Cultist returning in advance.


    Regardless, its almost certain that the Blood Spirit Cultists are the culprit behind the deaths happening in the southern region. Ill have the Court of Great Brilliance send some rectifiers and constables to the southern region with you, Fang Chen said.


    Thank you, War God Fang! Huangfu Jie sped his fist and expressed his gratitude. If its convenient, Id actually like to ask War God Fang to make a personal trip there. Im much more confident in your ability to crack cases.


    Ill head there after dealing with Longdu, Fang Chen replied with a nod.


    Thats great! Huangfu Jie was overjoyed.


    He was confident that Fang Chen could crack this case.

 Chapter 70: Never Been Here Before

    Chapter 70: Never Been Here Before


    In the Pce of Great Peace


    Baron Xian, our Great Xia has always valued harmony. Please inform your three dukes that we hope not to get into a State War with Longdu, the emperor said with a sigh.


    Engaging in a State War wont be a good thing for both Great Xia and Longdu, Prime Minister Li Guozhu added.


    The officials nodded in agreement too.


    Hmph! Baron Xian sneered. He swept his gaze across the room and said, Theres only one option if you dont want a war. We want vengeance for Viscount Zhou Xiu. Fang Chens two subordinates have to die. Other than that, Fang Chen must also write an apology letter, and it shall be stered in front of your imperial pce.


    The officials were in a dilemma. <em>This could have been easily done if Fang Chen hadn''t regained his martial cultivation, but now that hes a Ki Manifestation martial artist, even the emperor wont be able to easily do anything about him. </em>


    With Great Xia in a weaker position than ever, this was not the time to turn Fang Chen against them. He was Great Xias only Ki Manifestation cultivator. His presence would at least intimidate Greenpine from making a move.


    Also, I heard that the Great Xia River has a Jade Fairy who is known for her enchanting dances. Its rare for me to visit Great Xia, so I wonder if its possible to Bardon Xian chuckled. We often hear about the beauty of Great Xia women in Longdu.


    Your Majesty, Minister Yes son, Ye Qinghe, frequents the Jade Fairy Boat. Why dont we have him bring Baron Xian there to meet Jade Fairy? Itd be good for Baron Xian to stay in our Great Xia for a few days more so that we can slowly discuss things, the crown prince proposed.


    Lets do that then, the emperor nodded.


    Take your time to consider our conditions. Baron Xian chuckled. He sped his fist at the emperor before taking his leave.


    Your Majesty, why dont we execute Huang Sihai and Tie Ma by ourselves? Fang Chen wont be able to do anything about it when he finds out about itter on. We can appease Longdu this way, an official proposed.


    The entire imperial court turned to look at that official.


    The emperor looked at the official. Fang Chen might not be able to do anything much about it, but you can be certain hell pay you a visit.


    With that, the emperor stood up and left.


    The official was left standing in a daze. Momentster, he shuddered out of fear as he btedly realized the consequences of his words. He looked around and found that the other officials had already left.


    In the Fang Manor, Fang Chen instructed Tie Ma to head to the praying room and call Li Daoye over. Thetter had been spending most of his time pestering Abbess Clearlotus in the praying room since moving into the Fang Manor.


    Young master, do you need anything from me? Li Daoye asked with a grin.


    I need some spirit materials. Make a journey there on my behalf. Tie Ma will bring you there. Fang Chen passed the Dragonback Lanes token to Li Daoye.


    Dragonback Lane? Li Daoye understood that it was a cultivator ck market. He rubbed his hands together and said, Young master, Id need some ki stones to buy items


    You should have some savings as the young master of the Eight Trigrams Sect. You cover the cost first; Ill reimburse youter, Fang Chen replied with an enigmatic smile.


    Li Daoye was stunned. He sheepishly asked, Young master, youve met Elder Ming Jing?


    Mm. Fang Chen nodded.


    Wheres he? Li Daoye asked.


    He fled as soon as I told him you made enemies with the Blood Spirit Cult. He ims not to know anyone called Li Daoye, Fang Chen replied.


    That damned coward! Wait, when did I make enemies with the Blood Spirit Cult?! Li Daoye first cursed in anger before staring at Fang Chen in shock.


    Youre partly responsible for Master Xu Huis death too. Ill let the Blood Spirit Cult know when I encounter them in the future, Fang Chen said.


    That wont do! Li Daoye was horrified.


    You should have considered the consequences before exploiting me. Do your job. Ill consider letting you remain in the shadows if you do well. Fang Chen smiled.


    Shall we go? Tie Ma stepped forward and asked.


    Lets go then Li Daoyes eyes darted around in contemtion.


    If you escape, the Blood Spirit Cult might juste knocking on the Eight Trigrams Sect in search of its young master. Fang Chen chuckled.


    Youre vicious! Li Daoye cursed.


    He reluctantly departed with Tie Ma.


    Shortly after Tie Ma and Li Daoye left, Xu Ge rushed over and reported with a suppressed voice, Young master, the crown prince instructed Ye Qinghe to bring Longdus envoy to the Jade Fairy Boat tonight. That toad is lusting over a swan.


    They are heading to the Jade Fairy Boat? What a coincidence. I intend to bring Huangfu Jie there tonight. Fang Chen smiled. It was a long journey here, but that fellow is already rushing back to the southern region tomorrow. We should show him some hospitality, even if for a night. Invite Rectifier Yuan along too. Theyd be traveling together, and they should get acquainted.


    Xu Ges eyes lit up. Ill inform Lord Yuan.


    This was a rare opportunity for him to go to the Jade Fairy Boat. A night at the Jade Fairy Boat was not cheap, and his pocket was a little empty at the moment.


    The Great Xia River was more vibrant than even the capitals most crowded street in the day. Many brilliantly-lit boats floated on the river as they gestured guests over.


    Baron Xian, this way please.


    Ye Qinghe and a few officials led the way for Baron Xian. There were several Longdu schrs apanying them too.


    The surrounding crowd automatically stepped aside to give way to Ye Qinghes group. Their eyes lit up in envy when they realized Ye Qinghes group were heading for the Jade Fairy Boat.


    The Jade Fairy Boat was incredible, but its charges were exorbitant. The performance itself cost forty to fifty taels, and the bill could hike up to an astronomical sum when including the wine and the delicacies.


    A mboyant, middle-aged woman noticed Ye Qinghe. She lifted her skirt and walked over to wee him. Isnt this our young master Ye?


    Madam Liu, Ill book the Jade Fairy Boat tonight to wee a distinguished guest! Ye Qinghe said with a smile.


    Young master Ye, why dont we open it up? Baron Xian suggested. It wont be as fun if its just us.


    Indeed, Baron Xian, Youre absolutely right! Ye Qingheughed.


    He dropped the idea of booking the boat and beckoned Baron Xian and the others onto the Jade Fairy Boat.


    The Jade Fairy Boat stopped by the riverside for another hour. Thirty more customers boarded the boat, and they were all rich merchants, powerful martial artists, or renowned schrs. Only people of a certain standing had the financial means to afford a night on the Jade Fairy Boat.


    Another group of people boarded the Jade Fairy Boat right as it was about to depart.


    Young master, they dont seem to recognize you, Huangfu Jie asked as he was confused why the servants leading them onto the boat didnt recognize Fang Chen.


    Thats because Ive never been here before, Fang Chen replied with a smile.

 Chapter 71: Flower Boat Competition

    Chapter 71: Flower Boat Competition


    Huangfu Jie was baffled. Yuan Zhuang and the other rectifiers also looked at Fang Chen in bewilderment. <em>War God Fang has never been here? How is that possible?!</em>


    Enchanting beauties were known to dwell in the posh boats floating above the Great Xia River. There were rumors the emperor had snuck out of his imperial pce to pay this ce a visit. Young scions frequented this ce, and even the crown prince asionally dropped by to listen to a tune or two.


    To put it bluntly, only those who didnt have money hadnt been here, but the Fang Manor wouldntck money.


    <em>Could it be </em>


    A possibility surfaced in their minds, prompting them to look at Fang Chen with weird looks.


    I would have paid this ce a visit, but I didnt have time back then. I spent most of my time and energy on the battlefield, Fang Chen exined with augh.


    Ah!


    The crowd reined in their expressions and looked at Fang Chen in respect. Other than thest five years he spent mostly cooped in the Fang Manor, he had spent most of his youth preparing for battles or fighting on battlefields. There was indeed no time for him to visit such ces.


    The servant brought them to the hall located at the center of the Jade Fairy Boat.


    From the seats ced in a disorderly but aesthetic manner to the aroma of fine alcohol, Fang Chen felt like he had walked into a bar. Waiters and waitresses were on standby around the hall.


    After the group settled down, Xu Ge beckoned a waitress over with a wave of his hand and ced several orders, and thetter nodded before taking her leave. It didnt take long for their table to be filled with side dishes and fine alcohol.


    Shortly after, severaldies walked over and smiled coyly at Huangfu Jie and the others. They were perplexed when they saw Fang Chens closed eyes; they couldnt understand why he was averting his eyes at a ce like this.


    Yuan Zhuangs face turned bright red. He nced at Fang Chen before turning to Xu Ge, saying, Brother Xu, I don''t need


    Dont be a spoilsport when youre already here! Xu Ge was dissatisfied.


    Indeed, Rectifier Yuan. Now that youre already here, you should at least show some respect to War God Fang, if not us, Yuan Zhuangs colleagues said as they happily beckoned thedies who caught their eyes over.


    Thesedies strutted over and coyly leaned on their bodies, asionally letting out bell-like chuckles.


    Seeing there was no way for him to back out of this, Yuan Zhuang reluctantly called for ady.


    Huangfu Jie was a veteran with such ces, but he was still excited as a child as it was rare to see such fine women in the southern region. He beckoned twodies over to nk him, and he thanked Fang Chen while eating their hand-fed grapes.


    Going for two at once? Tsk tsk. Of course you dont feel burdened spending someone elses taels. Xu Ge shook his head.


    It went without saying that Fang Chen was paying for this trip.


    Thedy beside Xu Ge noticed that Fang Chen, despite being in the center seat, was sitting alone with his eyes closed, so she teased with a smile, Young master, arent you feeling lonely? Why dont I get one of our sisters over to drink with you?


    You just have to serve me, your hubby, well. Stay out of our young masters affairs, Xu Ge reprimanded jokingly.


    Of course, my hubby. I was wrong. Come, let me feed you some wine. Thedy took a sip of wine before staring adoringly at Xu Ge.


    Secondster, Xu Ge wiped his lips andughed in satisfaction.


    You sure know how to y. Fang Chen chuckled.


    Yuan Zhuang had been rather stiff and awkward since arriving at the Jade Fairy Boat, but he slowly let himself loose after downing a few cups of wine. He even learned a couple ofmon drinking chants from thedies and was having the time of his life.


    Just then, a person dered aloud, Our Lord Baron from Longdu will be treating every table to a vat of Drunk Fairy Brew!


    Longdu nobles are generous indeed!


    Such cheers could be heard from the crowd, but Xu Ge and the others sneered in contempt.


    Not far away, Baron Xian, Ye Qinghe, and the others were having fun too. They often rewarded thedies around them with silver taels. Even the waiters and waitresses serving them received generous tips too.


    Young master Ye, when is Jade Fairying out? Baron Xian ced his wine cup down and asked impatiently.


    Ye Qinghe chuckled. No rush, Baron Xian. Theres a Flower Boat Competition today, so youll definitely be able to see Jade Fairys enchanting danceter on.


    Flower Boat Competition? Interesting! Baron Xian revealed an excited smile.


    Unknowingly, the brilliantly-lit boats had begun gathering around the center of the Great Xia River, forming a circle with decks facing decks. One of the waiters on the Jade Fairy Boat pulled open a massive curtain, allowing the crowd to see the scenery on the other decks.


    This piqued the excitement of many customers. Those who had been to or heard about previous Flower Boat Competitions were prepared to be awed by the performances tonight.


    Beautiful figures stepped onto the decks of each boat and began their dance. Each boat had their unique vors, treating the customers to the splendor of simultaneously watching all of the top performances on the Great Xia River.


    The atmosphere crescendoed, as the top performers of each boat stepped onto the stage. Melodious music yed, and under resounding apuse, the top performers danced their souls out.


    Over on the Jade Fairy Boat, the customers watched with bated breaths as the lightly veiled Jade Fairy made her appearance. Her ethereal aura, seductive figure, and glistening fair feet immediately put her under the spotlight, outshining the performers on the other boats.


    She has reached third stage Ki Control. The Bone Tempering Pills worked well. Fang Chen nodded in satisfaction while admiring Jade Fairys dance.


    Thedy beside Xu Ge saw how Fang Chen was nodding at the deck despite his closed eyes, and that made her even more perplexed. <em>Can he see even with his eyes closed?</em>


    Just then, someone shouted from the neighboring boat, 2000 taels. Id like to invite Jade Fairy over for a drink!


    Boss Zhao sure is hearty, but 2000 taels is childs y. Ill offer 3000 taels to invite Jade Fairy over to make friends with her.


    Pardon me, but you shouldnt even think about inviting Jade Fairy if you dont even have 5000 taels prepared. The two of you enjoy the performance while you can. Ill offer 5000 taels!


    <em>These people sure have deep pockets.</em> Xu Ge, Huangfu Jie, and the others thought as they exchanged gazes. Even Ki Control martial artists like them couldnt afford to squander so much money on a whim, unless they used their strength to rob others.


    Heh Baron Xian burst intoughter. He sipped on his wine while ncing at Ye Qinghe.


    Ye Qinghe caught his drift and spoke up, Longdus Baron Xian offers 5,500 taels to invite Jade Fairy over for a drink.


    His words were clearly ryed to all of the boats via his inner ki. It was not a high offer, but the surrounding crowd fell silent. No one dared to bid any higher.


    Baron Xian smiled in glee. He raised his wine cup toward Jade Fairy and said, Jade Fairy, I have heard about your grace from Longdu. May I have the honor of sharing a drink with you?

 Chapter 72: Marquess Xianyu!

    Chapter 72: Marquess Xianyu!


    Longdus envoy is here too? How are we supposed to bid against him


    Shush! Dont you see the hundreds of cavalrymen stationed on the shore? You might have your mouth ripped off if you speak the wrong words!


    We have no choice but to take a step back here. I wonder if Jade Fairy will give in to Longdus envoy. I heard that not even the crown prince has been able to win over Jade Fairy


    Heh, itd be good if shes deflowered. Only then will we have a shot with her too.


    All kinds of murmurs could be heard from the other boats, and the crowd assessed Baron Xian and the others with curious eyes.


    Baron Xian looked at Jade Fairy with a sincere and honest smile, but thetter merely spared him a nce before looking elsewhere. She had noticed Fang Chen, Xu Ge, and the mboyantdies sitting around them. Ire flickered across her eyes.


    <em>Why didnt anyone inform me that the young master hase to our Jade Fairy Boat?</em>


    Angered, Jade Fairy began making her way over to Fang Chens side.


    The crowd, however, thought that she was walking toward Baron Xian.


    Even Baron Xian himself thought the same too. When Jade Fairy came close to him, he stood up and raised his wine cup, saying, Jade Fairy


    His words were cut short when Jade Fairy walked past him without sparing a nce. Even Ye Qinghe and the others, despite being regrs of the Jade Fairy Boat, werepletely ignored.


    The crowd was startled.


    Madam Lius smile froze up, as she stared at Jade Fairy in utter shock. <em>Whats thatss up to this time around?!</em>


    Jade Fairy walked straight up to Fang Chens group. Huangfu Jie, Yuan Zhuang, and the others exchanged shocked gazes, and the women around them were so flustered that they instinctively stood up.


    Young master, you should have told me that youreing, Jade Fairy said with a chuckle before squeezing down beside Fang Chen.


    Jade Fairy, I was not the one who made the offer, Fang Chen said with a smile.


    He knew that she was angry, but that was not of importance to him.


    Young master?!


    The crowd naturally turned to Fang Chen, curious to know who he was. Quite a number of customers recognized Fang Chen, and they shot to their feet out of sheer astonishment. They hurriedly informed those around them who they had seen.


    It was no wonder Jade Fairy ignored Longdus envoy. There was someone more important here!


    Baron Xians face darkened. He, too, recognized Fang Chen.


    Ye Qinghe and the others were horrified. <em>Doesnt Fang Chen steer clear of such entertainment facilities? </em>That was the reason they discussed Fang Chen here in the first ce!


    Not only was Fang Chen here today, but he even brought a group of people with him, including the number one expert of the southern region, Seven Profound Saber Huangfu Jie, Windcloud Sword Xu Ge, and the Court of Great Brilliances rectifiers.


    <em>What is Fang Chen up to?! </em>Ye Qinghe was wary.


    I can choose whoever I wish to drink with, and I dont think anyone here can offer a greater value than young master Fang, Jade Fairy said as she poured a cup of wine for Fang Chen.


    Thedies sitting with Xu Ge, Huangfu Jie, and the others finally realized who Fang Chen was, and their eyes lit up with excitement. They would have never thought that they would ever have the honor of sharing a table with War God Fang and even tease him. This was something they could brag about for years toe!


    Baron Xiansplexion darkened upon hearing Jade Fairys words. He nced at Ye Qinghe before saying, Im tired. Ill be taking my leave first.


    He waved his hand and took his leave.


    Ye Qinghes heart skipped a beat. The negotiation between their countries was over if Baron Xian left just like that, and he would have to take responsibility as the one who brought Baron Xian here.


    <em>The crown prince would be disappointed in me!</em>


    Ye Qinghe quickly stopped Baron Xian and appeased him. Then, he marched up with Fang Chen with his people and said, Fang Chen, I have received orders to entertain Baron Xian today. You shouldnt be here. Please leave now.


    He naively thought that Jade Fairy would drink with Baron Xian as long as Fang Chen left.


    Fang Chen chuckled. Go ahead and entertain him then. Ill do my own stuff here. Theres no need for us to cross each other.


    You know exactly whats going on! Ye Qinghes eyes turned cold. <em>Does he not know how important this negotiation is to us?</em> Taking a deep breath, he turned to Jade Fairy and said, Jade Fairy, someone like you should consider the bigger picture. You should know what you ought and ought not do.


    Young master, have some grapes. Ive peeled them for you. Jade Fairy popped a glistening grape into Fang Chens mouth.


    The crowd was both envious and shocked. They had never seen Jade Fairy treating a person in such a manner before!


    Hehehe Baron Xian suddenly let out a sinisterugh. Even a lowly woman from Great Xia dares to humiliate me in public. It looks like theres no saving your Great Xia! Very well, I shall send your War God Fang to theherworld today!


    Boom!


    The surrounding walls suddenly exploded.


    While the crowd was at a loss as to what to do, thirteen people suddenly rushed into the hall and surrounded Fang Chens group.


    At the same time, the other boats on the Great Xia River went up in mes. Cries of agony could be heard as countless people leaped into the river despite the risk of drowning,


    Baron Xian, this Ye Qinghe was taken aback.


    The others on the Jade Fairy Boat stood up in rm too.


    Baron Xian sneered in response.


    The thirteen figures unleashed their auras, and their inner ki gushed out to envelop their bodies. Their auras were stronger than Xu Ges, with some almost reaching Huangfu Jies level. They were pinnacle Ki Control martial artists!


    No matter how dull-witted Ye Qinghe was, it was obvious that Baron Xian hade with an ulterior motive, possibly to eliminate Fang Chen. Why else would hee to Great Xia with thirteen pinnacle Ki Control martial artists?!


    But as long as theres no Ki Manifestation martial artist


    As soon as Ye Qinghe murmured those words, Fang Chen spoke up with a smile, Judging from your aura, Marquess Xianyu, it doesnt seem like you have only just reached Ki Manifestation.


    <em>Marquess Xianyu?! Thats the strongest martial artist in Longdu! The territory he has under him is almost on par with the other dukes, and there is spection that he might be promoted into a duke very soon!</em>


    Baron Xians haughty attitude vanished as if it was just an act. He calmly sat back down as he looked at Fang Chen with an enigmatic smile, saying, The rumors are true. War God Fang is a formidable person. To think that you have even figured out my identity but I wonder if theres anything you can do to turn the tables on me today?


    Cries of agony persisted in the nearby boats. There were assassins lighting more mes and ughtering the customers. Screams were also echoing from the shore, and the hundreds of Longdu cavalrymen had begun their massacre.


    The crowd gasped in horror. <em>Is Longdu out of their mind?</em>

 Chapter 73: Revealing Their Edge

    Chapter 73: Revealing Their Edge


    Young master, I didnt know Panic flickered in Jade Fairys eyes, as she looked as if a child who had done wrong. She was worried that this situation had arisen due to her little tantrum.


    It has nothing to do with you. He would have made a move regardless as long as I got onto the boat. You were just an excuse for him, Fang Chen said.


    Yuan Zhuang and the others were dumbstruck. <em>Did Fang Chen know Baron Xians true identity right from the start?</em>


    Ye Qinghe was stunned. He remembered how Baron Xian was the one who suggested letting other guests onto the boat to immerse in the festive atmosphere. These guests werent officials, but they hadrge businesses in the capital. It was the same for the other boats too.


    If these important people died overnight, the capital would plunge into chaos for some time!


    This is his true motive? Ye Qinghe stared at Marquess Xianyu in disbelief, but he couldnt figure out what thetters true goal was. <em>Yes, Great Xia will suffer a heavy blow, but it wont shake our foundation. Its also unlikely that hell escape from our capital alive. </em>


    Marquess Xianyu noticed Ye Qinghes confusion and enlightened him with a smile, We have secretly mobilized 100,000 cavalrymen, and they are currently in the vicinity of your capital.


    <em>100,000 cavalrymen?!</em>


    The crowd was horrified. Even Xu Ge also looked at Fang Chen with uncertain eyes, as he had no idea what Fang Chen could do to resolve the current crisis.


    If Marquess Xianyu wasnt lying, Longdu could stomp their capital in a matter of hours.


    Youre the only one I fear in Great Xia, but I have reached fourth stage Ki Manifestation five years ago. I even made another breakthrough within thest five years, whereas you remained stagnant. Your martial cultivation is beneath mine now, not to mention I have thirteen pinnacle Ki Control martial artists here. They are the elites under the other dukes. Fang Chen, how do you intend to deal with this? Marquess Xianyu asked with a smile.


    Your goal is to kill me? Fang Chen asked.


    It would be ideal if I can take your life, but even if I fail, Ill destroy your foundation so that youd have no chance of making aeback. Marquess Xianyu smirked. He put one finger on his lips and pointed at his ear. Listen carefully


    <em>Tok tok tok tok tok </em>


    Drumming could be heard from all four city gates. The drums were only struck when a city gate was under threat, and the fact that the drumming wasing from all four city gates meant that the enemy army had encircled them and was simultaneously attacking them from all directions!


    The crowd was horrified.


    Even Ye Qinghe also red at Marquess Xianyu in anger. Y-you never intended to negotiate. You have already made up your mind to invade us!


    Your crown prince was naive. So was your emperor, Marquess Xianyu sneered. Zhou Xiu is an important person in our country, and he died on your Great Xias soil. You want to talk peace with us after killing him? Youre dreaming!


    Its over, its over! some of the customers murmured with pale faces.


    This was a surprise assault from Longdu, not to mention that they had hundreds of cavalrymen wreaking havoc in the city at the moment. It would be hard for Great Xia to defend against them under such circumstances.


    It might still be possible to turn things around if Fang Chen made a move, but Longdu had sent a mid Ki Manifestation and thirteen pinnacle Ki Control martial artists to curb him. Fang Chen might be powerful, but there was only so much he could do against such a line-up


    Bad news, General Fang! Longdu cavalrymen are attacking our city!


    At the eastern city gates, the hundred soldiers on duty anxiously reported to Fang Canghai.


    Arge group of Longdu cavalrymen had suddenly appeared outside the city. They had brought siege equipment with them, and they were using it to ram against their city gates. They had also shot metal hooks onto the top of their city walls, hoping to sneak in and weaken their defenses.


    The hundreds of soldiers stationed at the eastern city gates stood no chance against the tens of thousands of Longdus cavalrymen. They were barely able to keep the enemies away from their city walls.


    Fang Canghais face darkened. With a roar, he slew a couple of Longdu cavalrymen who managed to scale their city walls, as he shouted at his subordinates, Guard the gates to your dying breath! Reinforcements will arrive soon!


    Yes sir! the guards roared with clenched jaws.


    Fang Canghai vigntly dodged the enemies arrows while making his round on the city walls, making sure to y any Longdu cavalrymen who managed to climb up. <em>And this is just a portion of the cavalrymen. How did such arge group of cavalrymen go unnoticed in our Great Xia?!</em>


    Fang Canghai was infuriated.


    Great Xia operated an intricate intelligencework and had many sentry posts. They should have learned about it from the moment Longdu mobilized such a huge force at all. Even if not for that, they should have known as soon as thisrge army came close to their borders.


    It was impossible for all of their security precautions to have failed. In other words, there was a spy in Great Xia!


    Send someone to inform Fang Chen! Fang Canghai ordered.


    Yes sir! A soldier quickly took his leave.


    The other city gates were faring no better, being caught off guard by the Longdu cavalrymen. Luckily, the imperial court reacted fast and dispatched the warriors from the East Tiger Barracks and West Tiger Barracks over.


    News quickly reached the officials, and many officials rushed into the imperial pce to consult the emperor.


    In the Imperial Library, the emperor red lividly at Prime Minister Li Guozhu, Minister of Military Personnel Ye Dongming, and the other officials.


    You bunch of good-for-nothings! How could Longdu cavalrymen reach our capital without anyone noticing? Even a pig can do your jobs better than you! the emperor bellowed.


    The officials had awful looks on their faces.


    The emperor turned to Xiao Shence and asked, Your Valiant Defenders didnt notice a thing?


    Your Majesty, please punish me for my ipetence! Xiao Shence hurriedly kneeled down and begged for mercy.


    Oh, Ill definitely punish you for your ipetence, the emperor sneered. He turned to Ye Dongming and asked, Minister Ye, whats the current situation?


    Ye Dongmings forehead was drenched in cold sweat. I have sent my men to investigate the situation. The Longdu has over 100,000 cavalrymen stationed outside our capital


    100,000 cavalrymen? an official cried in horror. We only have 70,000 to 80,000 soldiers stationed in our capital


    Their crushing defeat five years ago had greatly weakened Great Xias military, such that the East Tiger Barracks and the West Tiger Barracks only had around 70,000 soldiers. Even when factoring in the Valiant Defenders, the Court of Great Brilliances constables, and the martial artists in the capital, they could only put together an army of 80,000 soldiers at most.


    In contrast, Longdu had clearlye prepared, and they might have reinforcements on the way. How were they supposed to defend against something like that?


    Wheres Baron Xian? the emperor coldly asked. Take him down.


    Baron Xian is with my son on the Jade Fairy Boat Ye Dongming said with a bitter smile.


    There was no way Baron Xian wouldnt be aware of this invasion. There was a good chance he might have been targeting the Great Xia River from the very start, since many important people gathered there at night, which meant that his son was in danger too.


    <em>And Baron Xian has 300 cavalrymen with him </em>


    Take him down first. I want to know what Longdu means by this, the emperor sneered.


    Urgent report!


    A Valiant Defender barged into the Imperial Library and reported, Your Majesty, there has been an attack on the Great Xia River. Longdus envoy, Baron Xian, is Marquess Xianyu in disguise, and he is a Ki Manifestation martial artist. He has surrounded War God Fang with a group of pinnacle Ki Control martial artists!


    The crowd was horrified to hear that.

 Chapter 74: Longdu Count Yu Hanguang

    Chapter 74: Longdu Count Yu Hanguang


    <em>Fang Chen is trapped at the Great Xia River? Baron Xian is Marquess Xianyu in disguise?</em>


    Everyone in the Imperial Library was stumped to hear that. Great Xias only Ki Manifestation martial artist was surrounded by a special squad led by Longdus Ki Manifestation martial artist. This didnt bode well!


    Longdu never intended to negotiate with us, the emperor grimly said.


    Your Majesty, Ill lead my men over to reinforce War God Fang! Xiao Shence sped his fist and said.


    Go on. If possible, work with Fang Chen to take down Longdus Ki Manifestation martial artist, the emperor replied with a nod.


    Xiao Shence quickly took his leave.


    The Imperial Armysmander Yan Beihan rushed into the Imperial Library and reported, Your Majesty, we have finished reinforcing the imperial pce. Even the Longdu cavalrymen wont be able to easily breach our defenses.


    His movements were awkward, a sign that he hadnt recovered from his leg injuries. He was only keeping himself together with his inner ki, or else any other martial artist would have been bedridden for at least half a month after having their thighs pierced by an arrow.


    Who told you to reinforce the imperial pce? This ce will copse if Longdu cavalrymen breach our city gates! the emperor roared. Send the imperial guards to the city gates instead!


    But Your Majesty, your safety will be Yan Beihan was taken aback.


    Ye Dongming and the others tried to dissuade the emperor too. No matter what, they should at least keep sufficient guards here to protect the emperor.


    This is my order, the emperor ordered.


    Yes, Your Majesty. Yan Beihan nodded before taking his leave.


    Li Guozhu sighed. Your Majesty, this would make our imperial pce vulnerable. If someone tries to do something in the meantime


    Who would attempt something at a time like this? the emperor sneered. Youre thinking too much. If theres nothing else, you may leave first.


    Yes, Your Majesty


    The officials bowed before backing out of the Imperial Library.


    Ye Dongming anxiously took his leave. Li Guozhu and the others knew that he was in a rush to rescue his son, Ye Qinghe, who was currently with Marquess Xianyu.


    Prime Minister, what should we do now? We dont stand a chance against Longdus 100,000 cavalrymen with our forces


    Should we advise His Majesty to first retreat from the capital? We can return once the fight settles down


    What are you thinking? Itll be harder to guard our capital if His Majesty leaves now. We can only leave it up to fate now. Weak schrs like us cant do much at a time like this. Li Guozhu shook his head before leaving with his hands behind his back.


    The crowd exchanged looks, as they btedly realized that none of their skills were important at a time like this.


    Everyone in the Fang Manor was currently gathered in the main hall. Fang Chens mother took charge as Fang Canghai was busy at the eastern city gates.


    She calmly looked at the flustered children of the Fang Manor and said, You need not worry. Longdu wont be able to breach our capital.


    Upon hearing her words, the children slowly calmed down.


    Just then, a soldier barged into the Fang Manor and asked, War God Fang! Is War God Fang here?


    Someone quickly brought him into the main hall.


    First Madam, General Fang has sent me here to inform the young master that Longdu has attacked our capital! the soldier half-kneeled before Fang Chens mother and reported.


    Chener is not in the manor, Fang Chens mother replied.


    War God Fang is not around? The soldier was taken aback.


    Fang Zhixue anxiously asked, Mother, where is big brother?


    Fang Chen nced at Huang Sihai and asked, Where did your young master go?


    Huang Sihai scratched his head. Jade Fairy Boat.


    What?! My big brother went to such a ce?! Fang Zhixue was infuriated.


    Huang Sihai hurriedly exined, Seven Profound Saber Huangfu Jie from the southern region is here, so our young master brought him to the Jade Fairy Boat.


    Chener should have heard about the situation by now and is on his way back, Fang Chens mother murmured under her breath.


    Madam, Fang Chen wont be returning, a voice echoed.


    Unbeknownst to the crowd, a ck-robed figure had appeared at the entrance of the main hall. He had a paleplexion that sharply contrasted against his bright red lips and thick eyebags, making him look rather sinister.


    Who are you? Huang Sihai asked with a frown.


    Longdu Count Yu Hanguang, the ck-robed figure replied with a smile. He walked into the main hall as he swept his gaze across the crowd before his eyes finally fell on Huang Sihai. Youre Huang Sihai, one of the Four Dragon Generals. The other three Dragon Generals were at pinnacle Ki Control, but they died in the Three Realms Mountain. Somehow, the one who is ignorant of martial cultivation survived the ordeal and returned to Great Xia alive. Fate can be surprising at times.


    Yu Hanguang sneered.


    Fang Chens mother red at Yu Hanguang. You said Chener wont be returning. What do you mean by that?


    You havent heard yet, Madam? Our Marquess Xianyu is in the city. Hes a mid Ki Manifestation martial artist, which means that hes even stronger than your son. Hes sharing a drink with your son at the Great Xia Rivers Jade Fairy Boat, so I doubt that youll see your son ever again.


    Yu Hanguang chuckled. Fang Canghai is guarding the city gates, Fang Chen is tied down at the Great Xia River, and your old master is said to be in a life-and-death training seclusion and hasnt appeared for many years. The only one here is Huang Sihai, so


    Marquess Xianyu dispatched me here to send you on your way. I hope that youll make things easier for me, so I can rush back in time to report this matter. I bet War God Fang will have an interesting expression on his face.


    The Fang nsmen were taken aback. The guards quickly stepped forward with their weapons with severe looks on their faces. Yu Hanguang had to be a Ki Control martial artist if he dared toe here despite knowing Huang Sihai was here.


    Dont bother. Yu Hanguang is one of Longdus top experts, being at pinnacle Ki Control, Huang Sihai suddenly spoke up.


    You heard about me? Yu Hanguangs eyes shone in glee. Ill give you a painless death then.


    Youre going to die here, Huang Sihai said as he raised his hand and invoked a low-grade Purple Lightning Talisman.


    He did have mid-grade Purple Lightning Talismans, but it would be a waste to use something so precious on a mere pinnacle Ki Control martial artist. As Fang Chens subordinate, he had to be thrifty on the other partys behalf.


    A purple bolt of lightning struck Yu Hanguang, charring the man who was still confidently boasting a moment ago. White smoke drifted from his body, and his face was so badly burned that it was impossible to make out his features.


    The crowd was stupefied.


    It took Abbess Clearlotus a few moments before she snapped out of her daze and muttered Amithabha. She looked in a direction and murmured, You messed with the wrong person this time around. Dont be so foolish in your next life


    What are you standing in a daze for? Clean up the ce and dispose of his body! Huang Sihai yelled at the guards. He then turned to Fang Chens mother and sped his fist, saying, Dont worry, Madam. The young master will be safe. Longdu has made a major miscalction this time around.


    Fang Chens mother exchanged gazes with Fang Cangyou, and smiles slowly emerged on their faces. She turned to Huang Sihai and said, Sihai, we have troubled you this time.


    Im only doing what I should. Hehe! Huang Sihai chortled.

 Chapter 75: I Don’t Need to Dirty My Hands to Deal With You

    Chapter 75: I Don¡¯t Need to Dirty My Hands to Deal With You


    In the Jade Fairy Boat, Marquess Xianyu was refraining from making a move. He only ordered his men to surround Fang Chens group, as if he was waiting for some news.


    Ye Qinghe tried to dissuade Marquess Xianyu from doing this, only to be smacked flying tens of meters away. It was such a heavy blow that he sat dazedly on the floor for a long time.


    Dont lecture me. Our Longdu will be taking down your Great Xia today, Marquess Xianyu sneered.


    Ye Qinghe held his swollen cheek as he red at Marquess Xianyu, but he chose to hold his tongue. He was dealing with a Ki Manifestation martial artist here; he wouldntst a second if the other party tried to take his life.


    You seem to be waiting for something, Marquess Xianyu. Fang Chen pointed out with a smile.


    I sent my men to massacre your Fang Manor while you were fooling around with Jade Fairy. Soon, your Fang n will be a thing of the past. The corners of Marquess Xianyus lips crept up. War God Fang, do you regret having killed our Longdu Viscount Zhou Xiu? Your family and countless Great Xias civilians are going to die because of what you did.


    It looks like Zhou Xiu isnt as simple as he seems, Fang Chen replied contemtively.


    The crowd was irked to see how nonchnt Fang Chen was about the situation. In their view, he was the one who poked the hos nest.


    If Fang Chen hadnt killed Zhou Xiu, Longdu wouldnt have dispatched their men to attack their Great Xia. Today would have been another enjoyable day, instead of having their lives held in someone elses grasp.


    Fang Chen, you are a Ki Manifestation martial artist and Great Xias War God. Why are you sitting still?! Longdu has climbed over your head! Your n is going to be killed! Ye Qinghe berated. You caused this mess! You provoked an enemy we couldnt mess with, and innocent civilians are going to die because of you! You deserve to be executed a thousand times over!


    Indeed, this is all your fault!


    Kneel down and beg for mercy, Fang Chen! Perhaps Longdu might show some leniency and spare some of our civilians!


    Ye Qinghes cronies roared in agreement.


    Marquess Xianyu was entertained. He nodded in agreement, saying, Theyre right. Youre the one who caused this mess. If you kneel down and beg for mercy, I might consider sparing your children and women.


    Huangfu Jie and the others were infuriated. <em>How dare they humiliate our young master!</em>


    Ye Qinghes eyes lit up. He turned to Fang Chen and bellowed, What are you waiting for? Kneel down and admit your mistake!


    Fang Chen paid no heed to Ye Qinghe, knowing he was no more significant than a barking dog. Instead, he looked at Marquess Xianyu and chuckled. The martial artist you sent to my manor should have been back by now, but hes nowhere to be seen. Dont you think that something is amiss?


    What are you trying to say? Marquess Xianyu narrowed his eyes. Yu Guanghan is a pinnacle Ki Control martial artist. He can easily massacre everyone in your Fang Manor, now that youre stuck here.


    HAHAHAHA! Xu Ge burst intoughter. When he saw Marquess Xianyu looking at him, he hurriedly waved his hand and replied, Pardon me. I couldnt hold it in.


    Just then, a spy flitted to Fang Chens side and quietly reported, Young master, it doesnt seem like they have made any other moves. They only sent a person down to the Fang Manor. There are no movements in the imperial pce at the moment.


    Did anyone in the capital try to help the Longdu cavalrymen? Fang Chen asked.


    We cant be sure yet, but most factions are holding their ground. We havent detected any anomalous movements yet, the spy replied.


    Got it. You may leave. Fang Chen nodded.


    That spy flitted away from the Jade Fairy Boat.


    The crowd was baffled. They had no idea what Fang Chen was up to.


    On the other hand, Marquess Xianyu was angered by the tantck of respect. He bellowed, Do you think this is a ce you cane and go as you please?


    He nced at one of Longdus pinnacle Ki Control martial artists, and thetter charged at the spy.


    Boom!


    With a sh of purple lightning, the Longdu pinnacle Ki Control martial artist was barbecued. The spy didnt spare a nce at the pinnacle Ki Control martial artist before leaping into the water, as if killing thetter was nothing to him.


    P-Purple Lightning Palm?! Ye Qinghe was astonished.


    The others on the Jade Fairy Boat were dazed too. How did Fang Chens subordinate kill Longdus pinnacle Ki Control martial artist so easily?!


    Marquess Xianyu was shaken up too.


    Before he could speak, Fang Chen suddenly turned to him and smiled. The news I have been waiting for has arrived. Marquess Xianyu, its time to send you on your way.


    You think you can kill me? Marquess Xianyu sneered.


    Me? Why would I lift my finger for you? Fang Chen shook his head. Kill him, Xu Ge. Theres no need to hold back.


    Xu Ge nodded. He had intended to use a low-grade Purple Lightning Talisman, but since the young master said there was no need to hold back, he decided to use a mid-grade one instead. He was rather excited as this would be his first time killing a Ki Manifestation martial artist.


    The crowd was startled. Even Huangfu Jie, Yuan Zhuang, and the others were astounded.


    <em>Hes ordering Windcloud Sword Xu Ge to kill Marquess Xianyu, a Ki Manifestation martial artist? Isnt that as good as throwing an egg against a rock? </em>


    Marquess Xianyu was so furious that he burst intoughter. Hahaha


    Xu Ge tossed out a mid-grade Purple Lightning Talisman.


    A terrifying bolt of lightning struck Marquess Xianyu, putting an abrupt halt to hisughter. His body was charred ck, as white smoke puffed out of his opened mouth.


    Marquess Xianyu was dead.


    Lord Marquess?!


    The remaining twelve pinnacle Ki Control martial artists were shocked beyond words. They couldnt believe what they had just seen.


    Five years ago, your Longdu took advantage of Great Xias war with Greenpine to extort us for a considerable fortune. Today, your Longdu is going to suffer a heavy setback too. Ill make sure you return whatever you took from us several fold, Fang Chen dered.


    He then directed a nod at Xu Ge.


    Xu Ge threw out twelve low-grade Purple Lightning Talismans, instantaneously killing all of Longdus remaining pinnacle Ki Control martial artists.


    Silence descended upon the Jade Fairy Boat.


    The crowd couldnt believe what they had just seen. Ye Qinghe and his cronies stiffened up, looking as if they had been struck by lightning themselves.


    <em>That is a Ki Manifestation martial artist were talking about here! He died in such an anticlimactic manner to Windcloud Sword Xu Ge?!</em>


    They slowly snapped out of their daze and looked at Fang Chen with eyes filled with fear. Ye Qinghe was no exception too. <em>If his subordinates can kill a Ki Manifestation martial artist with ease, just how strong must Fang Chen be?</em>


    It dawned on them that they had been underestimating Fang Chen ever since his defeat at the Three Realms Mountain.


    Xu Ge, Ye Qinghe had uttered filth earlier. On Minister Yes ount, Ill let this matter slip with just a few ps, Fang Chen said.


    Yes, young master. Xu Ges lips crept up. He marched up to Ye Qinghe with a sinister smile. Pardon me, young master Ye.


    Before Ye Qinghe realized what was going on, Xu Ge grabbed him by his robe and gave him ten tight ps. The impact was so great that Ye Qinghe was knocked out on the spot.


    None of Ye Qinghes cronies dared to utter a word; they watched the sight with lowered heads, their bodies shivering.


    Young master, hes too weak. Xu Ge looked at Fang Chen with a helpless sigh.


    A shudder ran through the crowds backs. <em>Anyone would be knocked out if you smacked them like that!</em>


    Lets return to shore, Fang Chen said.

 Chapter 76: Arrangement

    Chapter 76: Arrangement


    The Valiant Defenders had arrived along the shore of the Great Xia River. They joined forces with some of the soldiers from the West Tiger Barracks to deal with the 300 Longdu cavalrymen that had entered the capital together with Marquess Xianyu.


    Xiao Shence sat on horseback at the back of the formation, He pointed at the burning boats on the Great Xia River and ordered, There are Longdu soldiers on those boats as well. Eliminate them too. As for the Jade Fairy Boat, well watch the situation first. No one is to approach it yet.


    There were two Ki Manifestation martial artists on the Jade Fairy Boat. The Valiant Defenders couldnt be able to do anything about a battle of that caliber, unless the Jade Fairy Boat returned to shore.


    Yes, Commander Xiao! The chiliarchs acknowledged the orders.


    The Valiant Defenders swiftly boarded the burning boats to deal with the Longdu soldiers.


    Just then, Niue Jue pointed to the Jade Fairy Boat and shouted, Commander Xiao, the Jade Fairy Boat is heading to shore!


    Prepare for battle. Were up against a Ki Manifestation martial artist, but theres no need to fear as War God Fang is also a Ki Manifestation martial artist. We just have to cooperate with him, Xiao Shence ordered.


    Niu Jue and the others grimly nodded. This was their first time dealing with a Ki Manifestation martial artist, so they were nervous about it.


    Ye Dongming soon arrived with a group of people too. Upon spotting Xiao Shence, he quickly rushed forward and asked, Commander Xiao, how is my son?


    Minister Ye, your son should still be on the Jade Fairy Boat. The Jade Fairy Boat is moving to shore right now, so we should know soon enough, Xiao Shence replied as he warily eyed the approaching Jade Fairy Boat.


    Ye Dongming was nervous. He couldnt allow Ye Qinghe to die, as thetter was his only heir. Otherwise, their Ye n would end with him!


    Soon, the Jade Fairy Boat arrived on shore.


    The warring Longdu cavalrymen felt a huge morale boost. One of them even shouted, Marquess Xianyu has arrived on shore! Lets work harder to massacre these lowly boors of Great Xia! Well be handsomely rewarded for our contribution!


    This spurred the Longdu cavalrymen to fight with greater valiance and tenacity.


    Shock swiftly rippled through their ranks when they noticed that the person alighting from the Jade Fairy Boat wasnt Marquess Xianyu but Fang Chen. Even Xiao Shence was taken aback too, as he ordered Niu Jue and the others to hold their grounds so as to figure out the situation.


    Fang Chen first alighted with his people, followed by the shocked customers of the Jade Fairy Boat, then a group of mboyantdies. Till the end, Marquess Xianyu didnt appear at all.


    They tightly followed Fang Chen, keeping a fixed distance between them as if it was the only way they would feel safe in this time of crisis. If not to avoid hindering Fang Chen, they might have just squeezed close to him.


    Only Jade Fairy dared to hold Fang Chens arm.


    Wheres Marquess Xianyu? Xiao Shence asked with doubtful eyes.


    Ye Dongming saw someone carrying Ye Qinghe down from the boat, and he suddenly experienced intense vertigo that nearly sent him tumbling from his steed.


    We have imed Marquess Xianyus head, Xu Ges voice echoed loudly along the shoes of the Great Xia River. You need to work harder to eliminate the Longdu cavalrymen!


    The morale of the Valiant Defenders and West Tiger Barracks soldiers were roused, whereas the Longdu cavalrymen fell into a panic. They couldnt believe what they had just heard, but the conspicuous absence of Marquess Xianyu added credence to his words.


    The overwhelming disparity in morale resulted in the downtrodden Longdu cavalrymen swiftly suffering grievous losses.


    Marquess Xianyu is dead? Startled, Xiao Shence hurriedly led his men up to Fang Chen.


    Ye Dongming snapped out of his daze too. He galloped to Ye Qinghe and leaped off his steed. Qinghe!


    Minister Ye, Brother Ye is fine. Hes knocked out from being pped, one of Ye Qinghes friends said.


    <em>Qinghe is alive?! </em>Ye Dongming heaved a sigh of relief. His heart slowly regained itsposure, and he reflexively nced in Fang Chens direction.


    War God Fang, is Marquess Xianyu really dead? Xiao Shence asked with a bewildered frown.


    Would I lie about that? Fang Chenughed. He pointed behind and said, His corpse is there.


    A few people were hauling a couple of charred corpses from the Jade Fairy Boat. Xiao Shence and Ye Dongming immediately realized what had happened. <em>They must have died to the Purple Lightning Palm. That was how the Greenpine Ki Control martial artist died back then too. </em>


    But this meant that Marquess Xianyu and his subordinates were really killed by Fang Chen!


    Killing a Ki Manifestation martial artist? The Fang Chen from five years ago couldnt have done that. He failed to even hurt Wolf Marshall Xiao!


    War God Fang, its thanks to you that my son survived the ordeal. Please ept my bow! Ye Dongming sped his fist and bowed to Fang Chen.


    He was a second-grade official, one of the Six Ministers, but there was not a person who thought that his gesture was inappropriate.


    Ye Qinghes cronies looked at this scene with bizarre expressions. They dared not reveal that Fang Chen had ordered his subordinate to knock out Ye Qinghe


    Minister Ye is too courteous. Ill leave things here to the two of you, Fang Chen said.


    Young master, the Jade Fairy Boat is currently out ofmission. Would it be convenient for me to stay in the Fang Manor for a few days? a woman humbly asked.


    The crowd was taken aback. Xiao Shence and the others recognized the woman to be the Jade Fairy Boats Jade Fairy, the capitals number one beauty!


    You may stay in my residence for a few days then. Fang Chen nodded before taking his leave with Xu Ge, Jade Fairy, Huangfu Jie, and the others.


    The otherdies enviously looked at the scene until Madam Liu berated them, Do you want to stay at the Fang Manor as well? Stop dreaming and help me look for an inn to stay in!


    Madam Liu bade her farewell to Xiao Shence, Ye Dongming, and the others before quickly leaving with herdies.


    I heard the crown prince once invited Jade Fairy over for a night, only to be turned down Xiao Shence murmured as he looked at Fang Chens departing silhouette.


    You have to admit theres a gap between them, Ye Dongmind blurted out, only to realize that he had said something inappropriate. He quickly bade Xiao Shence farewell and said, My son has gotten injured. Ill be bringing him back to recuperate. Ill leave this ce to Lord Xiao.


    Go ahead, Xiao Shence replied with an enigmatic smile.


    It didnt take long for Fang Chens group to return to the Fang Manor.


    Fang Chens mother and the others heaved a sigh of relief, knowing that Huang Sihai hadnt lied to them. However, they soon noticed Jade Fairy and frowned.


    Fang Cangyou pushed his wheelchair over and assessed Jade Fairy from head to toe, asking. Are you Jade Fairy?


    This is my Second Uncle, Fang Chen exined.


    Jade Fairy curtsied. Paying respect to the Second Master.


    What Second Master? Im not that old. What brings you here today? Fang Cangyou probed.


    The Jade Fairy Boat was destroyed, and I have nowhere to go. Im grateful to young master Fang for allowing me to temporarily take residence here, Jade Fairy said.


    That wont do! Fang Zhixue immediately voiced her rejection. She marched up to Jade Fairy and stared at her before shaking her head. Its inappropriate for you to stay in our Fang Manor. Find an inn instead.


    Zhixue, dont be disrespectful, Fang Chens mother said. She smiled at Jade Fairy and said, Young miss, you may stay for the time being.


    She ordered the maids to bring her to one of the spare rooms.


    Chener, have you dealt with the situation over at the Great Xia River? Fang Chens mother asked.


    Mother, its gettingte. You should rest. Itll be over by the time you wake up in the morning, Fang Chen replied.


    The crowd was startled. <em>Itll be over by the time we wake up?</em>


    Fang Chens mother was baffled, but she soon nodded. Ill take a rest first then. Tell your father to sleep in the study room if he returns toote. I havent been sleeping well in recent days.


    She then left with her maids.


    Big brother Fang Zhixue wanted to say something.


    You should rest too, Fang Chen instructed.


    Fang Zhixue was aggrieved, but Abbess Clearlotus stepped forward and took her away. She knew that Fang Chen was a cultivator and could easily deal with this situation.


    When only Xu Ge and Old Huang were left in the room, Fang Chen infused his spirit ki into the Greenwood Puppet and instructed, Head to the eastern city gates.


    The Greenwood Puppet quietly made his way off.


    What about us, young master? Xu Ge and Old Huang asked.


    Old Huang, you head to the northern city gates. Xu Ge, you take the western city gates, Fang Chen instructed.


    The two of them turned around and left.


    What about me, young master? Jade Fairy had returned to the main hall and quietly appeared behind Fang Chen to massage his shoulders.


    Change your clothes and wear some shoes. Youll be heading to the western city gates too, Fang Chen ordered.


    Jade Fairy nodded before disappearing into the shadows.


    Fang Chen drew out his soul to watch everything transpiring in the capital from the sky.

 Chapter 77: Ten Days of Massacre

    Chapter 77: Ten Days of Massacre


    In the eastern city gate, Fang Canghai, with his third stage Ki Control martial cultivation, stood like a firm wall against the 20,000 Longdu cavalrymen. Anyone who tried to scale the city wall was mercilessly ughtered by him in a single sh.


    But even when reinforcements from the West Tiger Barracks arrived, they still struggled to keep the Longdu cavalrymen at bay with just the thousand soldiers they had.


    General Fang, I doubt that the young master will be able to guard the eastern city gates even if he rushes here. Why dont we inform people to inform the young master to take Madam and the young miss away first? a soldier anxiously asked Fang Canghai.


    Fang Chen was likely one of Longdus motivations behind this invasion. There was no way they would let the Fang n get away scot-free. Their priority now should be to keep Fang Chen safe, so that there was still a chance for them to make aeback.


    Dont overthink it and focus on protecting the city gates. If we cant hold our ground, well just have to ughter as many of them as possible, Fang Canghai replied.


    All of a sudden, there was a brilliant sh of light.


    A Longdu cavalryman, who had just scaled the city wall, suddenly unleashed a powerful burst of inner ki that sent dozens of Great Xias soldiers flying. Without any hesitation, he charged at Fang Canghai with his sword in hand. His attack was exceedingly swift, precise, and urate, making it hard to deal with.


    Fang Canghais face darkened. <em>Its a Ki Control martial artist!</em>


    The fact that Longdu had dispatched a Ki Control martial artist here meant that they were nning to go all out to take down the eastern city gates!


    One of the Great Xias soldiers selflessly rushed forward to protect Fang Canghai, only to be stabbed in his heart. Even so, the soldier didnt retreat. He continued advancing forward despite the sword plunging deeper into him, just so he could hold the enemy down.


    The Longdu cavalryman hadnt expected such a situation. Fury flickered in his eyes. Just as he was about to release his inner ki to crush the soldier behind him into bits, Fang Canghais de had already fallen on his neck.


    Pch!


    As the Longdu cavalrymans head was lopped off, his eyes were filled with indignation. He couldnt believe how he, a Ki Control martial artist, was killed before he could make a significant difference on the battlefield.


    And it was all because of a mere Great Xia soldier who fearlessly sacrificed himself?


    There were so many variables on the battlefield that a martial artist, no matter how powerful, could easily lose their life on the battlefield over a minor mistake.


    Whats your name? Fang Canghai quickly supported the dying soldier and asked with sorrowful eyes,


    G-General Fang, I was a nameless soldier under War God Fangsmand. I am honored to have been able to help you kill a Ki Control martial artist today. My death is not in vain! Haha! The soldierughed while coughing blood. His eyes gradually lost their spirit and turned dull.


    Fang Canghai released his grip, dropping both the soldier and the Longdu cavalryman he had been holding onto the ground. Then, he raised his sword and continued hacking down the Longdu cavalrymen attempting to scale the city walls.


    Much blood was shed, but the tides of war slowly became evident.


    An increasing number of Longdu cavalrymen sessfully gained a footing on the city walls, forcing Fang Canghai and the others to retreat. Simrly, the city gates below were slowly being smashed down by Longdus siege weapons.


    We have broken in! Longdus cavalrymen cheered in delight.


    Great Xias soldiers turned pale.


    Fang Canghai knew that they couldnt guard the city walls anymore, so he ordered his remaining soldiers to retreat into the city. They would have to find another chokehold to deal with the influx of Longdu cavalrymen.


    Youre Fang Chens father, Fang Canghai?


    A group of Longdu cavalrymen charged in through the tattered eastern city gates. Among them was a tall middle-aged man gazing down on Fang Canghai from his tall steed.


    The nervous civilians saw what was going on, and that further stoked their panic. The eastern city gates had fallen! This meant that the outer city was soon going to fall into Longdus hands. Without the outer city, it was unlikely that the inner city couldst long.


    You are? Fang Canghai coldly asked.


    Longdu Count Li Shiyun, the middle-aged man replied. He nced at his surroundings and remarked, Tsk. I never thought I would lead my soldiers into Great Xias capital. Listen, my men! Dont show any mercy to Great Xia scums. Well spend ten days massacring everyone in their city. Youre free to take whatever money and women you find!


    Yes, milord!


    The Longdu cavalrymen were overjoyed, as their faces warped in savagery.


    The civilians trembled in fear and despair. <em>They are going to spend ten days massacring us? How many of us will be left by the end of the tenth day? Longdu is not just looking to conquer us; they are going on a genocide here!</em>


    Fang Canghai was infuriated, but he didnt make any reckless move. He knew that he didnt have enough military prowess to confront the Longdu cavalrymen straight-on, so the only thing he could do now was to stall for time and hope for reinforcements to arrive soon.


    There would be hope for aeback as long as they drove the enemy out of the city.


    Fang Canghai, youreckingpared to your son. I believe itd have been harder for me to take down the eastern city gates if Fang Chen was here. What a pity our Marquess Xianyu has personally gone over to deal with him. He wont have the spare attention to help you, assuming he isnt dead yet. Ill be kind to send you down, so that the two of you can reunite in hell!


    Li Shiyun burst into heartyughter. He raised his hand and ordered, Men, tear them apart!


    Just then, a figure bolted straight toward Li Shiyun and grabbed his head.


    You are?! Li Shiyun was startled.


    <em>I am a pinnacle Ki Control martial artist, but the other party approached me without me noticing and even wrapped his fingers around my head. Just how powerful is he? Ki Manifestation? Does Great Xia actually have two Ki Manifestation martial artists?</em>


    Fang Canghai and the others were stunned too.


    Before anyone could react, Li Shiyuns head had already popped.


    But the figure didnt just stop there. He continued attacking the nearby Longdu cavalrymen, killing at least ten of them with each strike.


    Charge!


    Knowing that the person who had just arrived was a powerful ally, Fang Canghai unhesitatingly capitalized on this opportunity to turn the tables around and drive the enemy out of the capital.


    With the help of this mysterious expert, the battle became astonishingly easy. In a mere matter of moments, the Longdu cavalrymen who had breached the city gates had been driven out.


    However, the figure didnt stop there. He chased the Longdu cavalrymen out of the city and continued to ughter them like a merciless butcher machine, reaping their lives without a moments rest.


    The crowd was astounded.


    In just a few moments, the figure had already taken the lives of over 300 Longdu cavalrymen, but he wasnt showing any signs of fatigue yet. Not even a Ki Manifestation martial artist would have been capable of such a feat.


    In the sky, Fang Chen knew that the eastern city gates should be safe. The Greenwood Puppet was an unstoppable force, but if that was not enough, there were at least ten Great Xia Shadow Guards equipped with Purple Lightning Talismans on standby. If needed, they could invoke their Purple Lightning Talismans to take down some of the tougher enemies.


    Thus, Fang Chen turned his attention toward the other three city gates.


    In the northern city gates, Huang Sihai was like an unstoppable natural disaster after being buffed by the Protection Talisman, Flitting Talisman, and Strength Talisman. His mere charges were enough to shatter the Longdu cavalrymen into bits. His presence roused the morale of the Great Xia soldiers guarding the area.


    In the southern city gates, with the aid of the four talismans, Xu Ge worked with fourteen other Shadow Guards to tear a hole through the enemys formation and ughter theirmander.


    In the western city gates, You Longchang and his soldiers found themselves encircled by the Longdu cavalrymen and were nearly wiped out, but a ck silhouette suddenly appeared and flitted elusively around the battlefield like a specter. Not only did it help them break out of the encirclement, but it even killed quite a few of Longdus Ki Control martial artists.


    Seeing the purple lightning bolts, You Longchangs eyes lit up in excitement. <em>Its Fang Chens subordinates! Fang Chen has made a move!</em>

 Chapter 78: Brother, If I May Ask, How’s the Battle Outside Going?

    Chapter 78: Brother, If I May Ask, How¡¯s the Battle Outside Going?


    Here, lets have a drink. Great Xias days will be numbered after today, but you need not fear. Guhe and Yizhou have always been our friends, so you wont be affected by this massacre. Any businesses you have a stake in wont be affected either!


    While the soldiers outside were fighting a tragic battle, one of the manors in Great Xias capital was brilliantly lit with the aroma of alcohol wafting in the air. A Longdu schr merrily stood up and raised his wine cup.


    Joining him were powerful merchants from Guhe and Yizhou in the capital, such as Long Huixin. The crowd exchanged looks before toasting with bright smiles.


    Long Huixin downed her wine before asking, How does Longdu intend to deal with the Fang Manor?


    The Fang Manor is our very first assassination target. Even Great Xias emperor is ranked behind them. One of our experts paid the Fang Manor a visit shortly after the attack began, the Longdu schr replied gleefully.


    Long Huixins eyes lit up, but that was quickly reced by a frown. No matter what, Fang Chen is still a Ki Manifestation martial artist. Its unlikely that your expert is a match for him.


    Hahaha! The Longdu schr burst intoughter. Seeing the confused looks around him, he cheerily exined, Fang Chen is trapped on the Jade Fairy Boat. He doesnt have the energy to care about anything else.


    You trapped Fang Chen?!


    The crowd was bewildered.


    Long Huixin found this matter hard to believe. How is that possible?


    Whats impossible about it? With our Marquess Xianyu personally making a move here, Fang Chen need not dream of pulling anything. Marquess Xianyu has reached Ki Manifestation level five years ago, and he has further made a breakthrough to mid Ki Manifestation level since, the Longdu schr replied with a smile.


    Ahh


    The crowd gasped in shock. A hint of fear could be seen reflected in their eyes.


    The fact that Longdu had hidden this crucial information didnt bode well for Guhe and Yizhou. The stronger Longdu was, the greater the imbnce among them.


    Just then, there was amotion outside. All of the Longdu schrsughed.


    Our cavalrymen must have reached the inner city. Lets head out to take a look.


    The group made their way to the entrance of the manor, only to see a long procession of deted Longdu cavalrymen marching in chains, escorted by the Valiant Defenders.


    All of them were stunned.


    <em>I thought Longdus cavalrymen had breached the inner citys defenses? Why are they being held as prisoners instead? Furthermore, theres a lot of them, numbering in the hundreds!</em>


    Long Huixin and the others were bewildered. The smiles on the Longdu schrs stiffened up.


    Shortly after, they saw a group of people transporting a number of charred corpses.


    Unable to withhold their curiosity, one of the Longdus schrs stopped one of the Valiant Defenders and asked, Brother, if I may ask, how is the battle outside going?


    The Valiant Defender replied without even turning over, Dont worry, the situation has stabilized. The Longdu cavalrymen wont be able to breach our defenses.


    <em>What?! The situation has stabilized?</em>


    That worsened theplexions of the Longdu schrs. One of them nced at the charred corpses and asked, Whats with those charred corpses?


    The charred corpses? Its a quite funny story, actually. Longdus Marquess Xianyu thought he could trap our War God Fang on the Jade Fairy Boat just because hes a Ki Manifestation martial artist, but he and his pinnacle Ki Control martial artists ended up getting burned to crisps by Windcloud Sword Xu Ge. Xu Ge appears to have learned War God Fangs Purple Lightning Palm, and its prowess is truly terrifying, the Valiant Defender replied.


    What?! The Longdu schrs were stupefied. Their faces turned pale, and their bodies wobbled on the spot. They nearly lost their bnce and fell to the floor.


    <em>Marquess Xianyu is dead? And the one who killed him isnt Fang Chen but one of his subordinates? This </em>


    Long Huixin and the others instinctively took two steps back to distance themselves from the Longdu schrs. The Valiant Defender also btedly realized the identities of those who had just asked him questions. He raised his hand and gestured for the others to halt for a moment.


    Say, the lot of you are from Longdu, right? Niu Jue asked with a cold smile.


    This The Longdu schrs were in despair.


    Men, capture those bastards and bring them back to the barracks for interrogation! Niu Jue ordered.


    A group of Valiant Defenders rushed forth and tied them up before bringing them along.


    Niu Jue then turned his sights toward Long Huixin and the others. As for the rest of you


    Were from Guhe.


    And were from Yizhou. We have no ties with Longdu. We are unaware of the attack!


    Both sides desperately distanced themselves from Longdu.


    I see. You need to proceed carefully. There are Longdus remnants lingering in the capital, so you need to tread carefully. Its be terrible if they put a wedge between our countries good ties,'''' Niu Jue said with a concerned voice. Why dont you stay at our barracks for the time being? Itd be safe over there.


    No no no, thats too courteous of you


    Youre being too kind. We can take care of your safety. We appreciate your goodwill.


    Those from Yizhou and Guhe frantically shook their heads.


    The Valiant Defenders barracks was no different from hell. Anyone who was brought there had at least ayer of skin torn away from them. There was no way they would want to pay a visit to the barracks at a critical juncture like this.


    Ah You must be careful then. Try to avoid contact with those from Longdu as far as possible. Make sure to inform our barracks if you find any of their whereabouts, Niu Jue instructed before he returned to the formation to continue escorting the Longdu cavalrymen back.


    Those from Guhe and Yizhou heaved a sigh of relief.


    Long Huixin looked pale. Do you think the Valiant Defenders chiliarch is telling the truth? Could Fang Chen have a Ki Manifestation subordinate too?


    When Greenpine Countrys Celestial Xiao entered the capital, I heard one of her Ki Control subordinates was turned to a crisp by a single palm one of the Yizhou schrs replied with a fearful voice.


    They might be schrs, but they were also martial artists, albeit only at Ki Condensation. They knew what martial artists were usually capable of, which was why they remained skeptical about Fang Chen having burned a person to crisp with a palm strike.


    But now they had no choice but to believe it.


    Fang Chen was much, much stronger than they could have imagined!


    How did Great Xia end up getting so badly oppressed by Greenpine if even Fang Chens subordinates were this powerful? Long Huixin frowned.


    Perhaps feigning weakness? Longdu is a good example. They underestimated Great Xia and suffered severe losses as a result


    Even Marquess Xianyu had died; Longdu cavalrymen stomping Great Xias capital had be nothing more than a joke. Longdu had made a misstep this time, and they were going to pay an astronomical price for it.


    Losing their martial artists was just the appetizer!


    Feeling wary about Great Xia, Long Huixin and the others made up their minds to immediately inform Guhe and Yizhou about what they had seen here as soon as this matter was over.


    An hourter, the situation at the four city gates finally stabilized as more soldiers were deployed over. Seeing that, Xu Ge and the others silently retreated from the battlefield.


    Their young master had told them to retreat once Great Xia was in safe hands.


    Is the Blood Spirit Cult really not behind this? Fang Chen murmured in the sky. He hadbed the capital, but he hadnt found any traces of Blood Spirit Cultists. This suggested that Longdus abrupt invasion might have been propelled by other powers or factors.


    Zhou Xius identity appears to be an important piece.

 Chapter 79: Immemorial Mausoleum

    Chapter 79: Immemorial Mausoleum


    It waste at night, but the battle outside the city walls continued to rage on.


    Longdus key strategy behind this operation revolved around surprise, with Marquess Xianyu and his forces wreaking havoc from the inside to slow the deployment of troops and eliminate key personnel.


    Marquess Xianyu was a Ki Manifestation martial artist, after all. Once Fang Chen was suppressed, he would be able to march into the imperial pce to have a heart-to-heart talk with the emperor.


    If things had gone down as they had nned, they would have Great Xias capital under their control within two hours.


    Unfortunately, Marquess Xianyu had fallen in defeat, and the Ki Control martial artists under hismand died out. Their strategy had failed. Great Xia had no trouble mobilizing their troops to the four city gates, and with their turf advantage, they easily warded off the Longdu cavalrymen.


    The Longdu cavalrymen never received the promised signal from the inside. Instead, theirmanders were slowly being picked off by Xu Ge and the others. This crushed their morale. They began to retreat while fending against Great Xias soldiers, leaving many corpses in their wake.


    Fang Chen continuedbing the capital bit by bit with his soul.


    <em>I dont see any Blood Spirit Cultists, and the key suspects are moving normally. I cant tell who the spy is, or whether those colluding with the Blood Spirit Cultists yed a role in orchestrating this invasion. </em>


    Fang Chen brought his soul toward the imperial pce.


    A group of officials were gathered outside the Imperial Library. From time to time, a servant would arrive to deliver updates on the battle, and the knowledge that they had managed to push back Longdu for now made them heave a sigh of relief.


    In the Imperial Library, a grim-faced crown prince eyed the emperor in his peripheral vision before hesitantly speaking up, Father, Marquess Xianyu died in Xu Ges hands. Mysterious experts also appeared at the four city gates. Xu Ge and Huang Sihai were among them, which suggests that these people are Fang Chens subordinates


    Yuer, get to the point, the emperor cidly said.


    Father, Fang Chen has been lying low for the past five years, but in truth, he was secretly nurturing a group of experts. Xu Ge even has the power to kill a Ki Manifestation martial artist! This shows that he harbors wild ambitions! Xia Yu said.


    Fang Chen chuckled under his breath.


    The emperor was silent for seconds before replying, The Fang n is one of the founding ns of our Great Xia, and they have loyally served our Great Xia for many generations now. Are you insinuating that Fang Chen might stage a rebellion?


    Xia Yu clenched his teeth. Theres no need for Fang Chen to be so secretive about this if he isnt nning to rebel! I suspect that his martial cultivation had never been crippled, and maybe his blindness might be a lie too!


    He paused for a brief moment before adding, Even if Fang Chen has no such intention, hes slowly regaining his prestige. After this incident, it wont be long before he returns to the height he reached five years ago. It took a crushing defeat in the Three Realms Mountain to unravel the huge influence of the Fang Faction. If the Fang Faction makes aeback, Fang Chen would pose a major threat to our foundation even if he has no official position or soldier under his name!


    Your words make sense, but I dont have the means to deal with a martial artist of his strength. Many people in the imperial court wont turn a blind eye if I attempt to make a move on him too. Li Guozhu is one, and theres also my Fifth Brother and Jiang Yushu.


    The emperor chuckled softly before adding, You must be worried about Fang Chen bringing your Third Brother back and threatening your position, so you anxiously hope that Id deal with him as soon as possible.


    Horrified, Xia Yu quickly kneeled down and eximed with a lowered head, I wouldnt dare! Id be overjoyed if the Third Brother returned to Great Xia!


    The emperor massaged his temples and said, You may take your leave now. Tell those fellows outside to head back and rest. Well continue the discussion in the morning.


    Xia Yu dared not to say anything. He respectfully backed out of the Imperial Library and ryed the emperors intention to the officials outside.


    Your Highness, we cant possibly rest when Longdu is besieging our city! an official cried out.


    You still dont get whats going on? Marquess Xianyu is dead. Longdus invasion is doomed. The battle will be over by tomorrow morning, Xia Yu coolly pointed out before taking his leave.


    The officials exchanged looks before turning to Li Guozhu.


    Head home. Li Guozhu waved his hand and took his leave.


    Fang Chen continued observing the emperor inside the Imperial Library, but thetter simply browsed through the memorials he had received earlier today.


    The following morning, the battle finally ended.


    Great Xias soldiers chased Longdus cavalrymen over twenty kilometers before returning to the city victorious. By then, there were only 20,000 survivors left in the 100,000-men strong Longdu cavalrymen.


    The civilians passionately discussed this matter. Some of them headed out to take a look, and the soldiers urged them to help clear the corpse. It was summer, so the corpses could rot if they were not quickly disposed of. That would put them at risk of a gue.


    Some things simply couldnt be hidden.


    The happenings on the Great Xia Rivers Jade Fairy Boat had spread throughout the capital. Martial artists, schrs, and peddlers; hardly anyone hadnt heard about it yet.


    Yesterday was incredible! I was on the Jade Fairy Boat with my old masterst night when the Longdu envoy revealed that hes Marquess Xianyu. Hes a Ki Manifestation martial artist, and he ims to be stronger than War God Fang. Their n was to stall War God Fang at the Jade Fairy Boat while the Longdu cavalrymen besieged our city. Yet, Marquess Xianyu ended up dying in the hands of War God Fangs subordinate, Xu Ge!


    Xu Ge? Youre talking about Windcloud Sword Xu Ge? Hes able to deal with Ki Manifestation martial artists?


    Shocking, right? We didnt expect it either. Who would have thought that even a Ki Manifestation martial artist like Marquess Xianyu isnt qualified to cross blows with War God Fang?


    I heard that there were several mysterious experts fighting alongside our soldiers at the four city gates. They slew quite a number of Longdusmanders, firmly keeping the enemies at bay till reinforcements finally arrived.


    Those people are likely War God Fangs subordinates too. Its only normal for our War God Fang to have such powerful experts under hismand!


    The discussions among the civilians left Tao Yu and Ye Qinghe with bizarre looks. Ye Qinghe rubbed his swollen cheeks as his eyes grew increasingly sharper.


    Qinghe, youre lucky to have survived despite being on the Jade Fairy Boat, Tao Yu said with a smile. Though I heard that you were pped by Xu Ge?


    Dont mention it again. Ill remember those ps, Ye Qinghe sneered. My father wants me to thank Fang Chen. Are youing with me?


    Of course, Tao Yus eyes glimmered.


    The group made their way to the Fang Manor and ryed their intention to one of the Fang Manors servants.


    Our young master has gone to the Immemorial Mausoleum. Please look for him there if you have urgent business with him, the servant shook his head and replied,


    <em>Immemorial Mausoleum? </em>Ye Qinghe and the others were taken aback.

 Chapter 80: That Day Will Come

    Chapter 80: That Day Will Come


    There was a temple in Great Xias capital known as the Temple of Enlightenment. It was located in the suburbs, on the Heaven Treasure Mountain, but to reach the Temple of Enlightenment, one had to pass through the Immemorial Mausoleum.


    Buried in the Immemorial Mausoleum were the soldiers who had died fighting for Great Xia since its founding five hundred years ago. The area was filled with hundreds of monuments inscribed with countless names, such as Er Gouzi, Third Zhang, Li Brat, and so on.


    Each of these names represented a soldier who had once put their life on the line for Great Xia. Their blood became Great Xias body, and their valiant souls became Great Xias backbone.


    Countless soldiers were transporting the corpses of their deceasedrades here.


    Some of these corpses were identified by their family members andid to the ground, but there were those who were the only ones left, or that their families were a long distance away.


    Fang Chen stood with his hand behind his back. On his left was Abbess Clearlotus, and on his right was You Longchang, whose body was still drenched in blood.


    General You, have you tallied the casualties? How many of our soldiers died in this invasion? Fang Chen asked.


    You Longchang took out a paper scroll and looked at it. WIth a grim expression, he replied, 8,306 of our good men died in this battle.


    Eight thousand, huh Fang Chen murmured wistfully.


    Some of the nearby soldiers noticed Fang Chen and bowed toward him, but they swiftly got back to their work. The priority right now was to give their brothers a proper burial.


    Why is this brother hugging a Longdu cavalryman so tightly? We cant bury him with those Longdu knaves, right? a murmur echoed from afar.


    Fang Chen looked over and saw a deceased Great Xia soldier desperately holding onto a Longdu cavalryman. The Longdu cavalryman had lost his head, but the sword in his hand had stabbed the Great Xia soldiers heart.


    That reminded Fang Chen of what his father had instructed him. That soldier sacrificed himself to hold down a Longdu Ki Control martial artist, so that my father could behead thetter.


    The soldiers straightened their postures and saluted the deceased Great Xia soldier. Thetter had made a huge contribution by helping to take down a Longdu Ki Control martial artistmany more could have died if not for his sacrifice.


    Bury them together. It symbolizes his contribution, Fang Chen instructed.


    Yes, War God Fang, the soldier replied.


    Rules didnt matter here when Fang Chen had personally given them the word, not to mention that this soldier had made a huge contribution here. It would be something to boast about on the monument.


    Abbess Clearlotus, are they here? Fang Chen suddenly asked softly.


    Abbess Clearlotus had her eyes closed all this while. It was only upon hearing Fang Chens words that she slowly opened her eyes, and her face immediately paled. She timidly nodded. Yes, they are all here.


    In her vision were countless tattered figures drenched in blood, but none was as violent as the ghosts she usually saw. None screeched in indignation over their deaths or cried in agony. They simply quietly looked at Fang Chen with wistful eyes.


    Have a safe journey. Youll never be forgotten. Fang Chen sped his fist at the surroundings.


    The deceased military souls returned the gesture before slowly making their way toward the Immemorial Mausoleum.


    Ye Qinghe and the others chanced upon the scene and sneered.


    War God Fang, you have my gratitude for what happened yesterday, Ye Qinghe squeezed those words out of his mouth.


    Mm. Fang Chen cidly nodded before looking elsewhere.


    A flicker of rage shed across Ye Qinghes eyes when he saw how cold Fang Chen was despite him humbling himself.


    Before he could say a word, Tao Yu suddenly spoke up, War God Fang, are you here to see these deceased soldiers off?


    I thought I was the blind one here? Fang Chen looked at Tao Yu with his grayish-white eyes.


    War God Fang, others might think that youre putting on an act before our people. There are many who havee here to offer incense to the soldiers who died protecting our Great Xia.


    Tao Yus words prompted the crowd to look at Fang Chen, at which, Tao Yu continued on, We have lost many soldiers today. War God Fang, you appear to be grieving for those soldiers, but what about the 600,000 soldiers who died at the Three Realms Mountain five years ago? Their corpses are still lying elsewhere, never to return to their homnd.


    The civilians were startled, but they soon lowered their heads in sorrow. That was one of their greatest regrets in thest five years.


    600,000 of Great Xias valiant sons had died in the Three Realms Mountain, but they were unable to bring their corpses back.


    You Longchang retorted with a frown, Young master Tao, you shouldnt run your mouth if you have never been to a battlefield. Even the deceased Greenpine soldiers didnt make it back to their country. Do you understand the sheer manpower required to ship hundreds of thousands of bodies? Furthermore, others might use it as an opportunity to assassinate our people. Even if we had won that battle, our soldiers would have still been buried on the spot.


    Tao Yu sneered, War God Fang, if you have time to mourn here, why dont you think of a way to bring our 600,000 deceased soldiers back to Great Xia?


    You Longchang was infuriated by Tao Yus unreasonable words and was just about to say something when Fang Chen raised his hand and stopped him.


    Youre right, Fang Chen said with a smile. Regardless of your motive, I fully agree with your words. And that day will surelye.


    Tao Yu was taken aback. He hadnt expected Fang Chen to acknowledge his words. However, he quickly snapped out of it and continued pressuring Fang Chen, When will that daye?


    What does that have to do with you? Do you intend to follow me to the Three Realms Mountain? Fang Chen asked.


    Tao Yu was choked by those words. There was no way he would apany Fang Chen to somewhere as dangerous as the Three Realms Mountain.


    I hope your words arent empty, Tao Yu sneered before taking his leave.


    Many people have heard Fang Chens deration today. If he failed to bring their 600,000 deceased soldiers back to Great Xia, over time, people would begin talking about this matter, and this would undermine his prestige.


    If so, his goal would have been fulfilled.


    War God Fang, dont take Tao Yus words to heart. Its unlikely that well be able to bring our 600,000 brothers back to Great Xia. Greenpine wont watch idly as we do it, You Longchang consoled.


    Fang Chen patted You Longchangs shoulder and said, Everything is possible as long as we put our minds to it.


    With that, he leisurely took his leave together with Abbess Clearlotus, leaving the dazed You Longchang behind.


    You Longchang contemted those words, but he was still doubtful that Fang Chen could bring those 600,000 Great Xias soldiers back. It was a far distance away, so the logistics would pose a huge problem.


    On top of that, those corpses were practically Greenpines bait. They were just waiting for them to bite the hook

 Chapter 81: Leaving the Capital

    Chapter 81: Leaving the Capital


    Young master, is it fine for you to apany me to the southern region when the capital had juste under Longdus attack? Your presence in the capital should be more important than ever. Itll suffice to have Brother Yuan with me. Huangfu Jie was worried.


    He had requested Fang Chen to follow him to the southern region, but Longdus invasion changed the nature of things. There was a chance that Longdu might attempt something in the near future, so it would be best to have Fang Chen hold the fort here.


    Dont worry about Longdu; theyll need time to make aeback. It has been a while since I left the capital, so itll be good for me to go on a journey, Fang Chen replied with a smile. Also, Xu Ge and Huang Sihai are keeping an eye on the capital on my behalf. They can hold the fort.


    Thatll be best, but


    Huangfu Jie looked at the two women next to Fang ChenAbbess Clearlotus and Jade Fairy. <em>Wouldnt it be dangerous to bring two such weak women to the southern region?</em>


    He was oblivious to their identities, so he didnt know that these two so-called weak women were actually formidable individuals.


    While Abbess Clearlotus was only at second stage Ki Refinement, she was still a cultivator. Martial artists beneath Ki Manifestation wouldnt be able to pose a threat to her. She could easily offset their inner ki with her spirit ki.


    But what? Fang Chen asked.


    Huangfu Jie was conflicted, but he eventually chose not to voice it out and instead changed the topic. Yuan Zhuang and the other rectifiers didnt say a word either.


    To them, it didnt seem too out of ce for the War God to bring two women along to serve him, though it was rather controversial that one of them was a nun.


    A steed was prepared for each of them, and it didnt take long for them to get going.


    Several figures appeared on the city walls.


    Xia Yu coldly eyed Fang Chens departing silhouette as he asked, Fang Chen and Huangfu Jie are bringing rectifiers and constables from the Court of Great Brilliance to the southern region. Do you know what they are up to?


    I heard theres an important case involving the southern regions Four Great Sects. Huangfu Jie specially traveled to the capital to request Fang Chens assistance, Li Huafeng replied.


    Is there a reason for him to bring Jade Fairy and a nun along? Fang Chen is truly a hypocrite, Ye Qinghe sneered as he clenched his fists in envy.


    Jade Fairys willingness to travel south with Fang Chen signaled that she was already his!


    Its just a lowly woman. Dont let it get to you, Tao Yu shook his head as he nced at Xia Yu.


    Xia Yu was startled by the sudden gaze, but he quickly replied, Yes, its just a lowly woman. Itd be foolish to let it bother you.


    He then looked at the group around him and asked. I heard Fang Chen has ties with the southern regions Four Great Sects, and this verifies that. He has followers both in the imperial court and the pugilistic world. What do you think his goal is?


    The group exchanged looks, but none of them answered Xia Yus question. They knew what the crown prince was driving at, but they dared not voice it aloud. Deep down, despite the animosity they felt toward Fang Chen, they didnt think that he would do something like that too.


    Its a good thing that hes leaving the capital. Its an opportunity for us to dig up whatever arrangements he has made in the capital in thest five years, Xia Yue sneered. He turned to Li Huafeng and said, Supervisor Li, Ill be entrusting this matter to you.


    Rest assured, Your Highness. Itll be easier to get it done while hes gone, Li Huafeng replied. Ill have my men look into the mysterious experts who appeared that night too. Ill uncover their identities and their ties with Fang Chen.


    Xia Yu nodded. Are there any news from your Hidden Dragons? How is my Third Brother faring in Greenpine? Fang Chen killed over a thousand Greenpine martial artists; its unlikely that they would turn a blind eye to the matter.


    Li Huafeng nced at Tao Yu and Ye Qinghe.


    They are one of us. You need not be bothered by their presence, Xia Yu replied.


    Li Huafeng sped his fist and reported, There hasnt been any response from Greenpines side. The Third Prince continues to spend his days in entertainment facilities he appears to have alreadye to terms with his situation.


    My Third Brother isnt that simple. He wouldnt lose himself over mere Greenpine women. Its just an illusion. The more he acts in such a way, the more uneasy I feel. We shouldnt wait any longer. Lets end this once and for all. Have your Hidden Dragons to eliminate the Third Prince, Xia Yu ordered.


    Li Huafeng was taken aback. He looked at Xia Yu, only to see thetter staring at him with unblinking eyes. That put him into deep thoughts.


    Ye Qinghe and Tao Yu looked out of the window, choosing not to participate in this conversation.


    Greenpine wont allow the Third Prince to die there, Li Huafeng suddenly said.


    What if Wolf Marshall Xiaos daughter, Celestial Xiao, fails to return to Greenpine? Do you think Wolf Marshall Xiao will make a move on my Third Brother in a fit of anger? Xia Yu asked.


    Celestial Xiao?! Li Huafeng was taken aback. <em>Celestial Xiao has already left the capital for many days now, so she should be back in Greenpine by now. Yet, my Hidden Dragons didnt provide me any updates regarding her. Could it be </em>


    I cant wait anymore. Order your Hidden Dragons to make a move. Well pin Third Brothers death on Greenpine and Fang Chen, Xia Yu said. Ill reward you for working for me. Back then, Fang Chen hurt your foundation, causing your martial cultivation to stagnate at Ki Explosion. Otherwise, with your talent, you could have reached Ki Manifestation andpete with him.


    Li Huafengs expression flickered. This matter had been a thorn in his heart. Despite having reached mid Ki Control at a young age, the injury he sustained from his battle with Fang Chen caused his martial cultivation to slip to pinnacle Ki Explosion, never to advance again.


    I have a pill here. I got it from a daoist. Itll help you ovee your bottleneck and advance to third stage Ki Control. Perhaps you might even surpass your previous peak, Xia Yu said with a smile as he handed a pill over to Li Huafeng.


    Li Huafeng took the pill in a daze. He stared at Xia Yu with disbelief in his eyes. Your Highness, is this pill really that potent?


    I wouldnt lie to you, Xia Yu replied.


    Thank you, Your Highness! Ill do everything I can to help you. Li Huafeng immediately bowed to Xia Yu out of gratitude.


    Ill also find an opportunity to help you eliminate Fang Chen, Xia Yu added.


    Li Huafeng failed to notice Ye Qinghes eyes lighting up with greed. Clearly, thetter had already tasted the benefits of the pill.


    Dayster, Fang Chens group finally reached Great Xias southern region.


    Thergest difference between the northern region and the southern region was the climate. The northern region was in summer, but the southern region was like a furnace. Most people they encountered had bared their upper body.


    The southern region had a harsh climate; it was scorching hot in summer, only to turn freezing cold in winter. It was not a ce suitable for settling down in. Most of the civilians living in the southern region spent their days fighting with the weather.


    Its too hot, young master. Shall we get a cup of tea at the teahouse up ahead? Brother Yuan and the others are almost dying of thirst, Huangu Jie wiped off his sweat as he asked.

 Chapter 82: What a Beautiful Nun

    Chapter 82: What a Beautiful Nun


    The southern region consisted of Nine Commanderies.


    Both the Profound Saber Sect and the Heavensword Mountain Vi were located in the samemanderythe South Immortal Commandery. It was thergest Commander in the southern region, which made it the de facto capital of the southern region.


    The other two sects were located in anothermandery.


    That was also the reason the biggest suspect behind the massacre of the Heavensword Mountain Vi was the Profound Saber Sect. They benefited the most from the massacre of the Heavensword Mountain Vi.


    Lets take a sip of tea and rest. Were about fifty kilometers away from Profound Saber Sect, so theres no rush. Fang Chen nodded with a smile.


    The group made their way toward a roadside teahouse, which had a massive tree next to it that provided shade for those resting here. There were many travelers resting their feet here, be it martial artists or merchants.


    All of them revealed fearful looks upon seeing Fang Chen and hurriedly stepped aside.


    Fang Chens group consisted of over thirty people.


    Yuan Zhuang and the other rectifiers from the Court of Great Brilliance emanated an imposing disposition that was nurtured from having dealt with many powerful officials over time.


    The constables under them were dressed in casual wear, but they were all Ki Condensation martial artists. With the exception of Yuan Yu, they had brawny and towering physiques that ryed they were not to be trifled with.


    Ironically, Fang Chen, Jade Fairy, Abbess Clearlotus, and Huangfu Jie were the ones who looked harmless in the group.


    Sorry about it, esteemed customers. Were a small teahouse, so we only have five empty tables left. Do you mind squeezing with the others? The teahouses manager weed them with a fawning smile.


    Were fine with sharing tables. Fang Chen nodded with a smile.


    Huangfu Jie, Yuan Zhuang, and the other rectifiers shared a table. Fang Chen, Jade Fairy, and Abbess Clearlotus shared a table. The other constables upied the remaining three tables.


    The other customers discreetly observing the situation understood that Fang Chen was the one in control of the group. They deduced that Fang Chen might be a young master of a major n, whereas the others were here to guard him.


    Heres your tea. It didnt take long for the waiters to deliver some tea to each of the five tables.


    Jade Fairy was surprised. The tea was puffing with white smoke, but it wasnt hot. Instead, it was refreshingly cold to drink.


    Young master, how did you chill the tea? Jade Fairy asked.


    Only the affluent and powerful could afford to eat chilled stuff in the capital. Jade Fairy couldnt imagine how a small teahouse in the South Immortal Commandery could afford to squander precious ice cubes here.


    You must not know much about the southern region. Fang Chen chuckled. Theres a spring filled with naturally chilled water around fifteen kilometers away from here. This spring water can draw out the vors of any tea leaf without boiling. Even inferior tea leaves can be elevated to a new level through it.


    Jade Fairy was surprised. She didnt think that there would be such mystical spring water here. Abbess Clearlotus was taken aback too, and she fell into deep thought.


    Young master, you know a lot.


    Yuan Zhuang and the others exchanged looks. They, despite being rectifiers of the Court of Great Brilliance, didnt know that there was such mystical spring water in the South Immortal Commandery.


    Why dont we see such water in the capital then? Jade Fairy asked out of curiosity.


    This spring water cant be preserved for long. It has to be drunk within six hours after being harvested from the spring, or else itll lose its special properties and be no different from normal spring water, Fang Chen exined.


    I see. Jade Fairy nodded as she looked at Fang Chen in admiration.


    Just then, a shout could be heard from the teahouses entrance, Whose horse is this? Take it away! Where do we put our horses if youre upying all of the space here?


    A waiter rushed to Fang Chens table and softly asked with a strained smile, Young master, may I ask you to move your mount elsewhere? The young master out there is not someone to be messed with.


    The rectifiers and constables exchanged looks. <em>No matter the standing of the young master, can he possibly be more formidable than our Great Xias War God?</em>


    Yuan Zhuang, go and move our mounts, Fang Chen instructed.


    Yes, young master. Yuan Zhuang nodded.


    Momentster, he returned and reported, Young master, I have moved our mounts.


    Fang Chen nodded in acknowledgment. He took a sip of the iced tea, and it was so refreshing that it dispelled the heat from the scorching weather. <em>No wonder this teahouse has such good business. Its like a long-awaited treat to those traveling in this sweltering weather. </em>


    Just then, a group of people entered the teahouse. The young man standing at the forefront of the group frowned upon seeing how crowded the ce was.


    Before he could say a word, the brawny martial artist standing next to him bellowed, Manager!


    Coming,ing! The manager rushed over.


    Theres too many people here. Our young master doesnt like crowded ces. Squeeze out five tables out for us, the brawny martial artist ordered.


    Nearby customers turned livid when they heard those words, but there were some who recognized the young mans background and silently informed theirpanions, prompting all of them to fearfully lower their heads.


    The troubled manager sheepishly replied, My apologies, esteemed guests, but I can only squeeze out one table for you. There are five of you, so may I trouble you to squeeze a little


    What a joke. Youre asking us, servants, to squeeze with our young master? Who do you take our young master to be? the brawny martial artist roared in anger.


    Without any warning, he pped the manager, sending thetter flying into a nearby table.


    The other customers were enraged by the brawny martial artists unreasonable attitude.


    One of them, ate Ki Condensation martial artist, who was dressed like a pugilist in the southern region, stood up and said, Youre being too unreasonable.


    Hah, it looks like theres an ignorant buffoon here, the brawny martial artist sneered. Whats your background?


    Im Chen Da from the ckriver Sect! the other party replied.


    ckriver Sects Chen Da?! Thats the number one expert of the ckriver Sect!


    The crowd was astonished.


    The ckriver Sect was famous in this region. They did business rting to water shipping, and they had over a hundred disciples in their sect. Chen Da, their number one expert, was rumored to have survived ten moves from a Ki Explosion martial artist!


    The ckriver Sect? Hah! The brawny martial artist snorted. He took out a token and asked, Since youre from the ckriver Sect, you should recognize this token, right?


    Chen Da took a look at the token and gasped. Valiant Defender?


    <em>Valiant Defender?!</em>


    The crowd panicked. They would have never thought these people were from the Valiant Defenders. That was an army under the directmand of Great Xias emperor. Even officials in the imperial court would have to show them some respect, let alone pugilists like them.


    Chen Das face darkened. In the end, he sped his fist and said, I was foolish to have crossed you. Please


    The person you crossed isnt me but my young master, the brawny martial artist sneered.


    Chen Da turned to the young man behind the brawny martial artist and asked, Young master, my apologies about


    What a beautiful monk, the young man suddenly remarked, as he stared at Abbess Clearlotus with lustful eyes.


    <strong>Starves additional trivia aboutmanderies</strong>


    Ancient China is huge in size andmunication is tough, so it is hard for the emperor to manage all of his territories alone. Thus, they split the country up intomanderies (which you can think of as administrative units or individual states).


    Thesemanderies have their own armies and governor, though they have to report to a Commandery Chief assigned by the emperor.


    The benefit is that you get a local government that immediately acts on issues, instead of reporting matters to the capital and asking for permission for everything.


    However, this also means that thesemanderies operate autonomously (though yes, there is amandery chief keeping an eye on them), and there are cases ofmanderies getting so powerful that the emperor is no longer able to control them.

 Chapter 83: I’m Fang Chen

    Chapter 83: I¡¯m Fang Chen


    The crowd was taken aback, for they knew Fang Chens groupprised over thirty people. Usually, it would have been foolish to provoke such arge group of people.


    However, the Valiant Defenders reputation was even more frightening. Some of the customers even directed sympathetic looks at Fang Chen.


    The young man was clearly an important figure in the Valiant Defenders, possibly the son of a chiliarch. Someone of his stature had the influence to get any woman he wanted in the southern region.


    Yuan Zhuang and the others turned livid. Huangfu Jie revealed a contemptuous smile as he quietly assessed the young man.


    The young man was so mesmerized by Abbess Clearlotus that he didnt sense the bizarre atmosphere. He walked over, sped his fist, and introduced himself, Little Abbess, my father is Chiliarch Jue from the South Immortal Commanderys Valiant Defenders.


    <em>It really is a chiliarchs son! </em>The fear in the crowds eyes deepened.


    In terms of official grade, chiliarchs were not particrly high ranking. However, Valiant Defenders were an independent organization with a separatemand chain, and the direct superior of the chiliarchs was the supervisor who resided far in the capital.


    In other words, the chiliarchs in the southern region had practically free reign to do whatever they wanted, making them exceptionally powerful.


    Abbess Clearlotus panicked. She instinctively sensed that the person before her was the same type of person as Li Daoye, so she turned to Fang Chen with eyes pleading for help.


    Pardon me, but Ill have to ask you not to disturb our rest, Fang Chen said.


    The young man eyed Fang Chen with a disdainful look before turning to the manager. Didnt my man tell you to empty out some tables? What are you waiting for?


    The manager sighed in resignation. He quickly approached some of the less intimidating individuals and asked them to leave. Those people were also happy to do so, as they didnt want to risk offending the Valiant Defenders.


    But before those people could move, the young man pointed to Fang Chen, Huangfu Jie, and the others, and said, I want these tables. I like these seats.


    Hah Yuan Zhuang and the others sneered.


    None of them had a high opinion of the Valiant Defenders, especially Yuan Zhuang, who had been tortured by them not long ago. They were brimming with animosity toward the arrogant young man.


    This


    The manager was not a fool either. He could tell that Fang Chen likely had a powerful background. This put him in a dilemma, as he couldnt offend either side.


    Why are you standing in a daze? Ill have my subordinates clear the table if you arent going to do it, the young man sneered, as he stared at Fang Chen with provocative eyes.


    Hearing those words, the brawny martial artist and the others marched up to Huangfu Jie and the others and snorted, You dont hear my young master? Get lost!


    Young master, shall we take them down? Yuan Zhuang asked Fang Chen.


    The rectifiers from the Court of Great Brilliance were Ki Explosion martial artists. It wouldnt be difficult for them to take down these punks.


    Go ahead. Fang Chen nodded.


    The disparity in their fighting prowess was too huge. It only took an instant for the rectifiers and the constables to pin the brawny martial artist and the others under their feet.


    The crowd was stunned. The manager watched the situation in despair. Chen Da from the ckriver Sect was taken aback.


    <em>These people dared to make a move despite knowing that they are dealing with the son of a chiliarch? </em>


    Even a strong dragon would struggle to deal with a snake in its turf. The chiliarchs in the southern region were different from those in the capital! Not only did they have over a hundred elites under theirmand, they also had the power to mobilize the local garrison troop, which boasted a strength of more than ten thousand people!


    How dare you! Do you take our Valiant Defenders as pushovers? the young man sneered at Fang Chen and the others, not losing hisposure at all.


    Youre dead meat! The brawny martial artist and the others also didnt forget to hurl threats despite being pinned on the ground, looking as if they had everything under control.


    Rectifier Yuan, I heard that Liu Tian might have escaped to the southern region? Fang Chen suddenly asked.


    Yuan Zhuang quickly caught the drift and replied, Indeed. The Court of Great Brilliance has found evidence suggesting that Liu Tian might have escaped to the southern region.


    These people are from the Valiant Defenders too, so they might be rted to Liu Tian. Keep a close eye on them. Well bring them back to the capital with uster on, Fang Chen instructed.


    The young man was taken aback. The crowd also realized there might be more to this than what they had initially expected.


    <em>Court of Great Brilliance? Liu Tian?</em>


    Liu Tians name had made its round in the southern region, as the imperial court had issued a nationwide arrest warrant on him!


    Youre from the Court of Great Brilliance? the young man asked.


    Im Rectifier Yuan Zhuang from the Court of Great Brilliance, Yuan Zhuang sneered.


    A mere rectifier dares to mess with me


    The young man burst intoughter, a sign that he didnt think highly of Yuan Zhuang. <em>This is the South Immortal Commandery, not the capital! The Court of Great Brilliances jurisdiction is limited to the capital; it doesnt even have a branch in the southern region!</em>


    Youre also under suspicion of colluding with Liu Tian, Yuan Zhuang sneered.


    Yuan Yu and the others leaped forth to tie the young man up too.


    In just a few moments, the arrogant young man and hisckeys had been reduced to prisoners, leaving the other customers in the teahouse bbergasted as to what had just happened.


    Audacious! the young man bellowed. He angrily turned to Fang Chen and questioned, Are you their superior? Do you know that my father is a chiliarch of the South Immortal Commanderys Valiant Defenders? You better release me right now, or youll have hell to suffer once my father gets involved!


    Kneel down! Yuan Yu kicked the young mans knees, forcing them to bend down.


    The young man was made to kneel before Fang Chen. Never in his life had he suffered such humiliation before! His face turned bright red, and his face distorted in fury. If looks could kill, he would have withered there and then.


    Tell me your name! the young man coldly uttered.


    I am Fang Chen, Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    Fang The young man was just about to spew another slew of threats when he suddenly found the name oddly familiar.


    It was the ckriver Sects Chen Da who first connected the dots and gasped in astonishment. He half-kneeled on the ground out of shock and eximed, War God Fang?!


    <em>War God Fang?!</em>


    Those still seated in the teahouse, be it merchants, travelers, vendors, or martial artists, immediately shot to their feet and stared at Fang Chen in shock. The pugilists had a low opinion of officials in general, but there was one official in Great Xia whom all of them respected.


    Great Xias War God, Fang Chen!


    Not long ago, the news of Fang Chen purging the Greenpine Superior Dojo reached the southern region, and nearly all of Great Xias pugilists approved of his actions.


    There were also Greenpine martial artists wandering in the southern region, and they were incredibly arrogant as well. But after the Greenpine Superior Dojo was purged, most of them either hurriedly left Great Xia or assumed a low profile.


    War God Fangs swift and decisive actions had intimidated them!


    W-War God Fang How could it be him


    The young man was shocked beyond words. His arrogance vanished without a trace, and his body trembled nonstop. His father might be a chiliarch, but War God Fang was someone whom even his father would have to lower his back for


    The gap between them was as huge as heaven and earth!

 Chapter 84: You Aren’t My Son

    Chapter 84: You Aren¡¯t My Son


    Get up.


    Fang Chen didnt acknowledge Chen Das words, but thetter was already confident by then that the person standing before him and War God Fang.


    The man before him was as the rumors depicted himyoung like a youth, yet more valiant than a thousand men!


    The martial artists pinned under Yuan Zhuang and the other rectifiers feet stared at Fang Chen with frightened eyes.


    Whats your fathers name? Fang Chen asked.


    W-wait! War God Fang cant possibly be here. It wasnt long since he purged the Greenpine Superior Dojo, so he must have many matters to attend to. He wouldnt have the spare time to journey to the southern region the young man murmured.


    With those words, he convinced himself that the person before him was an impostor, so he changed his attitude once more and sneered, How dare you impersonate War God Fang? Someone as important as War God Fang wouldnt step into the wild southern region for no reason. Otherwise, the other countries would surely send assassins after him!


    Those words set the crowd thinking. <em>Is he really not Fang Chen?</em>


    Chen Das eyes also glimmered with doubt.


    Young master, this fellow just wont give up! Yuan Zhuang chortled.


    Hold him down first. Lets finish our tea before settling this, Fang Chen said before ignoring the young man altogether.


    Yuan Zhuang and the others returned to their tables and continued sipping their tea too. The southern regions climate was simply too warm, and only the chilled tea here could cool them down.


    The young man and hisckeys were pinned down by the constables, unable to move at all.


    Youre stubbornly keeping up with the act? Wait till my father learns about it. Itll be toote for regrets by the time he dispatches soldiers over! The young man harrumphed.


    But no one paid the young man any heed. They leisurely sipped on their chilled tea, ordering a pot after another, determined to drink till they were satisfied.


    While serving the customers, the teahouses manager would asionally nce at the young man with worried eyes. The merchants and martial artists who should have left by now seemed to be glued to their seats too.


    The ckriver Sects Chen Da chose to linger as well.


    They were dying of curiosity to know if the person before them was Fang Chen.


    In less than an hours time, the ground suddenly shook as galloping horses could be heard outside.


    Chen Das ears pricked up, and a momentter, he murmured, There must be at least a hundred cavalrymen here


    Young master is in there! someone bellowed.


    The young man was excited to hear that voice, and he immediately shouted back, Centurion Wu, Im here! Come in and take down these bandits!


    The teahouse had been surrounded by over a hundred cavalrymen. Ten were dressed in the Valiant Defenders uniforms, and their leader was a brawny man who emanated the aura of a Ki Explosion martial artist.


    The leader quickly barged into the teahouse with his men.


    The crowd revealed fearful looks upon seeing the Valiant Defenders.


    The leader quickly noticed that the young man was pinned under a constables foot, and his eyes glowed with a red light. He red at Fang Chen and the others and roared, Audacious! How dare youy your hand on our young master? Do you have a death wish?


    Centurion Wu from the Valiant Defenders Chen Da murmured fearfully.


    What airs you are putting on, Yuan Zhuang scoffed. Threatening to chop off peoples heads at a whim. We should have tapped into our connections and entered the Valiant Defenders instead of joining the Court of Great Brilliance.


    Indeed.


    It sure isfortable being a Valiant Defender.


    The other rectifiers also sneered in response.


    Centurion Wu was taken aback. <em>Court of Great Brilliance?</em>


    Dont be fooled by them, Centurion Wu! These people are impersonators! One of them even imed to be War God Fang! The young man raised his hand with much difficulty and pointed at Fang Chen.


    <em>Impersonating War God Fang?! Thats a crime that warrants capital punishment! </em>Startled, Centurion Wu quickly ordered, Release our young master right now, and Ill give you a chance to exin yourselves!


    Huangfu Jie, do the South Immortal Commanderys Valiant Defenders usually act so domineering? Fang Chen asked.


    Thats how they usually conduct themselves, though they rarely mess with our Seven Profound Sect. That being said, they do think of ordinary civilians as lower beings they can shove around as they like, Huangfu Jie snorted.


    Seven Profound Sects Huangfu Jie?! You are Seven Profound Saber! Centurion Wu finally recognized Huangfu Jie, and his heart skipped a beat.


    This was the number one expert of not just their South Immortal Commandery but the entire southern region! Huangfu Jie was said to have already reached pinnacle Ki Control despite his young age, and there was a chance he could advance to Ki Manifestation in the near future.


    The young man was stunned. So were hisckeys. Chen Da and the others were dumbstruck.


    You recognize me? Huangfu Jie asked Centurion Wu.


    I followed Lord Chiliarch to the Seven Profound Sect to investigate the matter concerning the massacre of the Heavensword Mountain Vi. It was there that I met you. Centurion Wu sped his fist at Huangfu Jie. May I know how my young master offended you? Could you let this matter go on my ount?


    The young man quietly watched the situation. <em>Since Centurion Wu recognizes Huangfu Jie, there should be no doubt about his identity. But if thats the case, could that man really be </em>


    His heart, which had calmed down due to Centurion Wus arrival, beat violently once more.


    Im afraid this matter cannot be resolved that easily. I dont call the shots here. Huangfu Jie shook his head.


    Hahaha! Who here could be more important than young master Huangfu? Id love to know who in the South Immortal Commandery has such a transcendental standing!


    There was a heartyughtering from outside, and a slim, middle-aged man strutted into the teahouse. He was apanied by thirty Valiant Defenders.


    Lord Chiliarch! Centurion Wu and the others quickly bowed.


    <em>Even the South Immortal Commanderys chiliarch is here?</em>


    The crowd instinctively stood up, knowing that they were standing before an important figure. Anyone making a living in the South Immortal Commandery couldnt circumvent this man, including Chen Das ckriver Sect. Most of them had donated money to the Valiant Defenders before.


    Father! the young man eximed in delight. <em>There might be a chance to amicably resolve this matter now that my father is here. No matter what, hes still a chiliarch of the Valiant Defenders!</em>


    You sure are brazen to humiliate my son the middle-aged man sneered as he swept his gaze across the crowd.


    When his eyes fell on Fang Chen, he suddenly jolted as if he had been struck by a bolt of lightning, and he stiffened on the spot. Without any hesitation, he kneeled to the ground and cried out, Subordinate Jue Panshi pays respect to War God Fang!


    <em>It really is War God Fang! </em>


    Chen Da and the others were overjoyed. They quickly kneeled down as well.


    The young man and hisckeys were dazed. <em>Is there a need for my father to kneel down so quickly even if the person before us is War God Fang? The Valiant Defenders should be an independent organization that exists outside of othermand chains, ountable only to the emperor!</em>


    Chiliarch Jue, I heard your Valiant Defenders boast unchecked powers in the South Immortal Commandery? Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    Theres no such thing! War God Fang, there must be a misunderstanding somewhere, Jue Panshi frantically denied the matter as cold sweat soaked his back.


    Not only did your son attempt to chase us out, but he even coveted the abbess traveling with War God Fang. This cant be the first time hes doing something like that. The Valiant Defenders must have gotten powerful for your son to dare pick on our Great Xias War God, Yuan Zhuang sneered sarcastically.


    Father the young man tried to speak up.


    Dont call me father. I dont have a son like you. Get lost! Jue Panshi bellowed. He turned to Fang Chen with an apologetic smile, War God Fang, I have long wondered if this child is truly my son, and this verifies it. You may deal with this matter however you wish to.


    The young man sunk into despair.

 Chapter 85: Cold Spring

    Chapter 85: Cold Spring


    The crowd was astonished by Jue Panshis decisiveness. <em>His survival instincts are incredible!</em>


    At the same time, they were impressed by how intimidating War God Fang was to officials.


    Who could have thought that the South Immortal Commanderys chiliarch would actually be so afraid of Fang Chen? It was no wonder there were rumors that War God Fang often pped scions of powerful officials in the capital.


    You should have heard about Liu Tian, Fang Chen said.


    Jue Panshi quickly straightened his attitude and replied, Yes, I have heard about it. I have obeyed ourmanders orders and ced Liu Tian on arrest warrant in the South Immortal Commandery.


    I suspect these people are colluding with Liu Tian. Imprison them first. Ill interrogate them when I have time, Fang Chen replied.


    The young man and hisckeys turned pale, as they realized Fang Chen was trying to frame them! They were familiar with this means, as they often used it to oppress the civilians living in South Immortal Commandery.


    Jue Panshi was startled too. His heart skipped a beat, as he knew this wasnt any minor crime. If his son was indicted of colluding with Liu Tian, he would be implicated as well.


    War God Fang, I have failed to discipline my son, but I dont think hed be so bold as to collude with Liu Tian. Could we talk things out and rify this misunderstanding? Jue Panshi said with a careful tone.


    Thats right, thats right! How can I possibly collude with Liu Tian?! the young man eximed.


    And Im supposed to take your word for it? Fang Chen looked at him with a faint smile.


    A shudder went down the crowds spines.


    Chiliarch Jue, we should have met a couple times while you were still in the capital. I recall that you were the vicemander of the West Tiger Barracks then, Fang Chen said.


    Indeed, indeed. Im ttered that War God Fang remembers me. Jue Panshi hurriedly nodded.


    I heard you were a valiant and fairmander during your time in the West Tiger Barracks. Supposing the rumors are true, I guess there is no reason for your son to collude with Liu Tian. It should be a misunderstanding. Chiliarch Jue, take your son back and discipline him well, Fang Chen said.


    Jue Panshi took a while before he understood what Fang Chen was getting at, and his eyes lit up in delight. He heaved a long sigh of relief. He sped his fist and thanked Fang Chen before ordering his subordinates to drag the young man and hisckeys away.


    War God Fang, are you here to investigate the massacre at the Heavensword Mountain Vi? Chiliarch Jue carefully asked.


    The crowd pricked up their ears in interest.


    This matter had caused a huge uproar in the South Immortal Commandery. A few other minor sects other than the Heavensword Mountain Vi had also suffered the same fate.


    There were rumors that this was the Profound Saber Sects doing, and their goal was to first dominate the South Immortal Commandery, followed by the entire Great Xias southern region!


    Now that Seven Profound Saber Huangfu Jie had appeared together with Fang Chen, the crowd couldnt help but wonder what was going to happen next.


    Chiliarch Jue, why didnt you inform the capital of this matter? You should know how important the capital regards the stability of the southern region given Great Xias current circumstances, Fang Chen asked.


    Jue Panshi hurriedly replied, I understand that too, which is why I have dispatched many Valiant Defenders to thoroughly investigate this matter over thest few days. I wanted to get to the bottom of the matter before reporting it to the capital


    Fang Chen acknowledged his reason with a nod before further asking, Have you locked down the Heavensword Mountain Vi? Where did you keep the corpses?


    I have ordered my men to lock down the area. The corpses have been preserved at their original locations, Jue Panshi replied.


    Fang Chen nodded. <em>If Jue Panshi has gone to the extent of locking down the Heavensword Mountain Vi and preserving the corpses, it should be safe to say that he has no ties with the Blood Spirit Cult. </em>


    Wait for us at the Heavensword Mountain Vi. Well head there after finishing our tea, Fang Chen instructed.


    War God Fang, why dont I escort you there? Jue Panshi proposed.


    However, he quickly backed down when he saw Fang Chens impassive face. He respectfully bowed to Fang Chen before leaving the tea house.


    The teahouse fell silent after his departure.


    Fang Chen finished his tea before turning to Huangfu Jie. Pay for the tea. Lets set off.


    Huangfu Jie ced some silver pieces on the table before directing a smile at the manager. This should be enough to pay for our tea and the broken furniture.


    Youre too kind, youre too kind, the manager nervously replied.


    The group continued on their way, but halfway to their destination, Fang Chen suddenly took Abbess Clearlotus and Jade Fairy on a detour.


    Wheres our young master heading off to? Yuan Zhuang was perplexed.


    Huangfu Jie chuckled. Hes heading to the cold spring.


    The others nodded in realization.


    Now that we have time on our hands, why dont we capture the fellow who has been following us and uncover his motive? Huangfu Jie asked.


    Yuan Yu and the other constables were taken aback. <em>Someones following us?</em>


    The rectifiers also turned grim. They quickly scanned their surroundings, and it didnt take them long to find their stalkers. They immediately charged over with the constables.


    A few minutester, they returned with a bound Chen Da.


    ckriver Sects Chen Da, why did you follow us? Huangfu Jie asked with a cold smile.


    Seven Profound Saber, I have no malicious intention. I simply wanted to report something to War God Fang, Chen Da hesitantly looked around, but he became even more nervous when he couldnt find Fang Chen around.


    Report something? Yuan Zhuang asked. What is it? I am a Rectifier Yuan Zhuang from the Court of Great Brilliance. You can talk to me instead.


    My apologies, but Ill only tell War God Fang about it. Chen Da shook his head. I wasnt nning to talk about it as it might spell danger for me, but if Im going to talk to someone about it, itll only be War God Fang. I seek your pardon for that.


    Huangfu Jie and Yuan Zhuang exchanged nces, and the former said, Very well, You can wait here then.


    It was not easy to trek into the mountain.


    Fang Chen and the others traveled for a few kilometers before they finally arrived at a spot surrounded by three cliff faces. Beneath these three cliff faces was a clear spring.


    There were quite a few civilians collecting water from the spring. They first took a huge gulp of the refreshing spring water before they filled up their wooden buckets and quickly left. They did notice Fang Chen and the others, but they werent too surprised by their presence.


    Those living in the vicinity knew about this springs special properties. It wasnt rare for young masters and young misses to pay this ce a visit and take a sip of the cooling spring water.


    Young master, its really cool here. There must be something special about the spring, for it to be able to dispel even the heat, Jade Fairy eximed in surprise.


    Abbess Clearlotus took in a deep breath and verified her conjecture.


    No wonder the tea brewed with this water is so refreshing, Fang Chen remarked with a smile.


    He had heard about this ce five years ago, and he had once paid it a visit. Now that he was an immortal cultivator, he could tell that this spring water was cool because it contained spirit ki.

 Chapter 86: Eyewitness

    Chapter 86: Eyewitness


    Young master, this is a spirit spring, Abbess Clearlotus remarked in surprise. Frequently drinking from this spring water can strengthen the bodies of mortals and hasten a cultivator''s cultivation speed.


    This was perplexing. Great Xia was socking in spirit ki that no cultivators were born here. Such a ce shouldnt have had a spirit spring.


    Yet, not only did a cultivator like Fang Chen appear here, but there was also a spirit spring. Spirit springs, spirit mountains, spirit trees, and such things were the foundation required to establish a sect. Should a cultivator stumble upon this spirit spring, they would either establish a sect here or create their own cavern.


    Clearlotus, whats a spirit spring? Can the water preserve ones beauty? Jade Fairy asked out of curiosity.


    To mortals, yes. Martial artists will benefit from it too, Abbess Clearlotus replied with a nod.


    Mortals and martial artists, who didnt have immortal veins, couldnt reap the full benefits of the spring water.


    Have you encountered other spirit springs before? Fang Chen asked.


    Abbess Clearlotus nodded. My master founded her cavern near a spirit spring, but its only big enough to provide for my masters own cultivation. This spirit spring here is at least enough for a hundred cultivators


    This is some good stuff Fang Chen stared at the spirit spring in a daze.


    Mortals were unable to siphon the spirit ki contained within ki stones, but they were able to drink and absorb the spirit ki inside spirit springs, albeit in a less effective manner. .


    If I could move this spirit spring to the Fang Manor Fang Chen murmured.


    Young master, its nigh impossible to move a spirit spring. Spirit springs are born from nature. Theres no way to move spirit springs without impairing its foundation. My master told me that Foundation Establishment and even Golden Core cultivators wont be able to pull it off, Abbess Clearlotus said.


    Jade Fairy was intrigued. She already knew that Abbess Clearlotus and Fang Chen were walking down the same path.


    I guess its fate, Fang Chen remarked.


    It might be possible to transport the spring water without impairing its spirit ki with the help of a storage ring, but such artifacts are rare to find, Abbess Clearlotus added.


    Fang Chen was about to leave when he heard those words. He squatted down beside the spirit spring and waved his hand in it. A momentter, he stood up and beckoned Abbess Clearlotus and Jade Fairy to leave.


    He had filled his storage ring full of the spirit spring water. It was stored separately from the ki stones, the golden alms bowl, the Moonsunk Gold Truncheon, and the Greenwood Puppet, as if there was a barrier that prevented them from interfering with one another.


    <em>Thats a square meter of spring water. It should be enough for now.</em> Fang Chen smiled.


    He was going to distribute it to his father, mother, Second Uncle, and Fang Zhixue. He would treat whatever illnesses they were suffering from and strengthen their bodies.


    When Fang Chen returned to the group, Yuan Zhuang quickly informed him about the matter concerning Chen Da.


    What is it that you would like to report to me? Fang Chen asked Chen Da.


    Chen Da clenched his fists in agitation. He half-kneeled and bowed, Chen Da humbly pays respect to War God Fang.


    Remove his ropes, Fang Chen ordered.


    Yuan Zhuang and the others quickly untied Chen Da, but thetter remained in a half-kneeling position. War God Fang, I passed by the Heavensword Mountain Vi a few days ago and saw something


    Huangfu Jie and the others were taken aback. <em>Could Chen Da have seen the culprit who massacred the Heavensword Mountain Vi?</em>


    Continue, Fang Chen instructed.


    Chen Da clenched his jaws. I saw something I shouldnt have, so I was nning to escape from the southern region and seek refuge in the north. I didnt expect you to personallye down here to investigate the case. Now that you are here, I have nothing to fear.


    That day, when I was passing by the Heavensword Mountain Vi, I saw someone massacring their disciples. With just a single strike, the culprit was able to absorb a persons blood essence and reduce them to a withered corpse


    Chen Da shuddered as he recounted the matter. Never in his life had he seen such a sinister martial art.


    Did you see the culprits appearance? Fang Chen asked.


    Huangfu Jie and the others stared at Chen Da. It would be much easier to solve the Heavensword Mountain Vis massacre case if thetter could provide them with a lead.


    I-I couldnt get a clear look. I was hiding far away, so I could only see the outline. The culprit appeared to be rather young, and he was dressed in a white robe. He doesnt look like the type to be capable ofmitting such atrocities, Chen Da nervously replied.


    You couldnt get a clear look Huangfu Jie and the others were disappointed.


    If you dont mind, Id like you to join us in investigating this case. If we find the culprit, you wont have to travel elsewhere to avert this cmity, Fang Chen said.


    Chen Da hesitated for a few seconds before nodding. Id like to join you!


    Lets first head to the Heavensword Mountain Vi to take a look. Chiliarch Jue might have found some clues there, Fang Chen said with a smile.


    The group got on their steeds and began heading toward the Heavensword Mountain Vi.


    Fang Chen had intended to first make a stop at the Profound Saber Sect, but since they chanced upon Chiliarch Jue, he decided to take a look at the crime scene first.


    The Heavensword Mountain Vi was the first to be massacred. If the culprit had left any clues behind, it was more likely for them to have slipped up there.


    Two hourster, a tall, verdant mountain appeared before the groups eyes. This was where the Heavensword Mountain Vis Qian n resided, and they were the strongest n in the area.


    There were many small towns in the vicinity, and they were rted to the Qian n in one way or another. In fact, eight out of ten of those living in this area had the family name of Qian.


    When the group passed through these towns, the townsfolk looked at them with vignt eyes. These were the people who were hit the hardest by the massacre of the Heavensword Mountain Vis massacre, and they had lost their backing.


    Many of the Qian ns enemies hade knocking on their doors upon hearing about the tragedy that had befallen the Heavensword Mountain Vi, and they went after the townsfolk after confirming that the main lineage had indeed died out.


    Fortunately, these townsfolk were not pushovers either. They united together to fend off those who tried to take advantage of them during this moment of weakness.


    Old Eighth Qian, you refused to return my 3000 silver taels back then because you had the backing of the Heavensword Mountain Vi. Now that the Heavensword Mountain Vi is gone, lets see how you intend to shirk on your debt!


    Return our 3000 silver taels right now, or else well burn down your house and have you and your family live on the streets!


    A group of menacing people bellowed from the entrance of a manor.


    Thismotion drew many onlookers over.


    Inside the manor was a group of old and young people. Their leader appeared to be around forty years of age, and he looked angered by the other partys words. I only borrowed 300 silver taels from you, and I have returned 600 silver taels. How in the world do I owe you 3000 silver taels? You people from the Ghost Tiger Sect are going too far!

 Chapter 87: Cracking Down On Unsavory Practices

    Chapter 87: Cracking Down On Unsavory Practices


    Fang Chen and the others watched themotion as well. Upon hearing their words, he asked, Whats the background of the Ghost Tiger Sect?


    Its a small sect made out of thugs. They only have a couple of Ki Condensation martial artists among them. They make a living out of borrowing money at high interest rates. They probably came here to take advantage of the townsfolk after learning the Heavensword Mountain Vi had been massacred, Huangfu Jie replied.


    While Fang Chen and Huangfu Jie were chatting, the two sides came to blows. Old Eighth Qian had several guards on his side, but unfortunately, they werent a match for the Ghost Tiger Sect.


    Fellow townsfolk, how can we let an outsider climb over our heads? If the Ghost Tiger Sect dares to mess with me, Old Eighth Qian, tomorrow, they wouldnt hesitate to mess with you in the future! Old Eighth Qian dered.


    The Qian nsmen were roused by the speech.


    The Ghost Tiger Sects leader pointed at the mountain and sneered, The Valiant Defenders are at the Heavensword Mountain Vi right now. I just need to give the word, and theyll rush over. Since we dare to loan our money, do you think we wouldnt have the means to collect it back?


    The crowd fell silent. Old Eighth Qians face darkened.


    It wasmon for some sects to have ties with the Valiant Defenders. They didnt know if the Ghost Tiger Sect had a strong backing in the Valiant Defenders or not, but they dared not to bet on it. If the Valiant Defenders stepped up for the Ghost Tiger Sect, they might incur more losses than they had expected.


    The Valiant Defenders had the power to mobilize more than ten thousand soldiers, after all. Each time their chiliarch made a move, the entire South Immortal Commandery trembled.


    Heh! the Ghost Tiger Sects leader sneered. Men, pour oil on Old Eighth Qian and the others!


    Yes boss!


    The members of the Ghost Tiger Sect carried a few buckets of oil over and poured them toward Old Eighth Qian, his family members, and the manor they were residing in.


    Old Eighth Qian, are you sure you arent going to fork out the 3000 silver taels? the Ghost Tiger Sects leader took out a mmable paper tube as he asked with a threatening edge.


    Youre vicious! Old Eighth Qians face turned pale, and his lips quivered. I dont have 3000 silver taels with me


    You can sign a debt note. I can give you a year or so to raise the money, the Ghost Tiger Sects leader replied.


    Huangfu Jie couldnt stand it anymore. With a cold harrumph, he leaped off the back of his mount toward the Ghost Tiger Sects leader to first snatch the mmable paper roll. Following that, he sent the other party flying with a kick.


    Who are you? How dare you make a move on our Ghost Tiger Sect?


    The members of the Ghost Tiger Sect were rmed.


    The Heavensword Mountain Vi has just suffered a tragedy, but here you are, taking advantage of them. Scram off. Dont let me see you ever again! Huangfu Jie roared.


    Who are you? the Ghost Tiger Sects leader asked with narrowed eyes.


    Im Profound Saber Sects Huangfu Jie, Huangfu Jie coldly replied. What do you intend to do? Settle the score with me? Sure, Ill be waiting for you in the Profound Saber Sect then.


    Ah


    The crowd gasped in shock. Those from the Ghost Tiger Sect revealed fearful looks, and their leader turned pale out of fright.


    However, the nearby Qian nsmen looked at Huangfu Jie with a sliver of enmity and resentment in their eyes. There were rumors that the Profound Saber Sect was the one behind the Heavensword Mountain Vis massacre, after all!


    So youre Seven Profound Saber Huangfu Jie The Ghost Tiger Sects leader took a deep breath and regained hisposure. You might be strong, but you dont have the right to interfere in my business with Old Eighth Qian. Shall I call the Valiant Defenders over to judge? Im certain theyll agree that its only right for someone to repay their debt!


    Huangfu Jie was surprised. He hadnt expected the other party to not be afraid of him. <em>Money really blinds ones eyes. </em>Recalling that Chiliarch Jue was on this mountain, he said with a smile, Go ahead and call them then.


    Seven Profound Saber, some of the higher-ups in the Valiant Defenders are with us. Dont you think you should at least give us some face? the Ghost Tiger Sects leader stepped forward and whispered in Huangfu Jies ear.


    Im telling you to call them, Huangfu Jie insisted.


    The Ghost Tiger Sects leader snorted in anger. He nced at his subordinate, and thetter quickly ran up the mountain.


    Around fifteen minutester, the sound of horse hooves could be heard approaching. Jue Panshi was heading in their direction with a few centurions and over a hundred soldiers.


    Sss! The crowd gasped.


    <em>Isnt that Chiliarch Jue?!</em>


    The Ghost Tiger Sects leader was initially taken aback, but an overjoyed smile soon emerged on his lips. He didnt think that his connections in the Valiant Defenders would have the means to bring Chiliarch Jue over.


    He was still worried whether his connections could curb Huangfu Jie, since they were against the number one martial artist of their southern region. But with Chiliarch Jue here, Huangfu Jie was nothing at all!


    There was a rule in the southern region that pugilists shouldnt interfere in the affairs of the bureaucrats. They would be no match for bureaucrats if it really came down to it!


    However, Huangfu Jie knew that Jue Panshi had onlye down after hearing he was here, which meant that Fang Chen had likely arrived too.


    Milords, Old Eighth Qian owes me money but refuses to pay up, and Seven Profound Saber insists on standing up for him The Ghost Tiger Sects leader stepped out and sped his fist toward Chiliarch Jue and the others.


    Before he could finish his words, Chiliarch Jue kicked him onto the ground. The other centurions directed subtle nces at him before turning away.


    Jue Panshi and subordinates leaped off their steeds and rushed up to Fang Chen. They sped their fists and said, Paying respect to


    Enough, lets get to the main issue at hand. Fang Chen waved his hand.


    Jue Panshi immediately eyed the few people present and asked, I heard that someone is stirring trouble here?


    Old Eighth Qian and the other Qian nsmen looked at Fang Chen in surprise. <em>Who is this young man that prompted Chiliarch Jue to specially get off his horse to greet him? Is he from the capital?</em>


    The Ghost Tiger Sects leader sensed that something was amiss, and his subordinates fearfully lowered their heads to stare at their own toes.


    Chiliarch Jue, I know that the southern region is a chaotic ce. There are many sects here, which means that there are many pugilists too. Its not an easy job to manage so many pugilists, am I right? Fang Chen asked.


    Indeed, Chiliarch Jue frantically nodded. Fortunately, the sects have their rules, and major sects like the Heavensword Mountain Vi and the Profound Saber Sect helped us maintain order too. Most pugilists dare not to oppress civilians.


    Fang Chenughed. But there are some minor sects who dont know the rules. This Ghost Tiger Sect is an example. They are a bunch of bloodsuckers who issue high-interest-rate loans to bulk themselves up. The South Immortal Commandery ought to crack down on such unsavory practices, lest the civilians beginining. Itll be terrible if the capital hears of it.


    So, should I Jue Panshi looked at Fang Chen questioningly.


    Crack down on such practices. Punish those who engage in such practices, whether its imprisonment, execution, or confiscation of properties, Fang Chen instructed.


    I understand. Jue Panshis face darkened.


    Most of the Valiant Defenders who came here with Jue Panshi revealed unnatural looks.


    The Ghost Tiger Sects leader realized that he had messed with someone he shouldnt have, and his face paled. Cold sweat dripped down his face, and he nearly fell on his bottom.


    This was just a small interlude, so Fang Chen didnt dawdle around. He followed Jue Panshi and the others up the mountain.


    Right after they left, Old Eighth Qian burst intoughter. He pointed at the Ghost Tiger Sects leader and his subordinates and scoffed, Your good days havee to an end!


    Before those from the Ghost Tiger Sect could argue, a group of Valiant Defenders marched forward and captured them.

 Chapter 88: Composite Drawing

    Chapter 88: Composite Drawing


    On their way up the mountain, there was a guard to be seen every ten steps.


    A group of Valiant Defenders stood at attention at the entrance of the Heavensword Mountain Vi. Upon seeing Jue Panshi, Fang Chen, and the others, they quickly bowed.


    War God Fang, this incident is particrly vile. It has been many years since such a tragedy befell our South Immortal Commandery, so I ordered my men to lock off this area and strictly forbid anyone else from approaching the area, Jue Panshi exined.


    You made the right call. Fang Chen nodded.


    He nced at Abbess Clearlotus and saw that thetters face was pale, with beads of sweat forming on her forehead. He quietly asked, Is there a ruckus inside?


    Jue Panshi thought that Fang Chen was talking to him and was confused. <em>What ruckus could there be inside? There are only corpses in there</em>


    Mm. Abbess Clearlotus nervously nodded.


    Lets enter. Fang Chen took the lead in entering the Heavensword Mountain Vi.


    This was not Huangfu Jies first time here; he had already seen the terrible scene left in the wake of the massacre. Even so, his heart still lurched when he saw it once more, and his face visibly paled.


    Before his eyes were dried corpses scattered around the vi. These corpses hadnt been moved since they were killed. Their sunken faces looked hideous, and their emaciated bodies were distorted in unnatural angles.


    Yuan Zhuang and the rectifiers had seen their fair share of tragedies while working on cases, but most of them were still shaken up by the sight before them. Their eyes swam around the ce, and their bodies trembled ever so slightly.


    Yuan Yu and the other constables didnt fare as well. Some of them averted their eyes, and some even retched at the sight.


    More dried corpses appeared as they ventured deeper into the vi. It was as if there was no end to the casualties.


    In particr, there was one scene that caught their attention. It was a woman holding two children in her embrace; one was still an infant, whereas the other was around eight years old. All of them had been reduced to dried corpses.


    Beside the woman was another dried corpse with many injuries on his body. He seemed to have undergone quite a bit of torture before he was killed.


    She is the young madam of the Heavensword Mountain Vi. The tortured man beside her is young master Qian Xuejun. In her arms are their two children, Huangfu Jie exined. Brother Xuejun had reached early Ki Control before his death. The opponent must have been strong, or else he would have at least been able to escape with his wife and sons.


    Yuan Zhuang and the others couldnt believe that an early Ki Control martial artist could be reduced to such a state. <em>Who in the world could have done this?</em>


    They were suddenly reminded of a recent case in the capital. <em>Master Xu Hui had also hidden dried corpses inside a well in the Compassion Hall. Could these two cases be rted?</em>


    The thought of that prompted the rectifiers to turn to Fang Chen. They knew that Fang Chen had a hand in the case even though You Longchang was the one who officially concluded it. Otherwise, Vice Minister Qin would still have remained beyond the reach ofw.


    Abbess Clearlotusplexion turned increasingly pale. She saw countless souls howling in agony around her, as they re-enacted their final moments.


    Dont be scared. Father and mother are here. Take a nap. Itll be over by then, a beautiful woman gently consoled the children in her arms, but she kept repeating the same words over and over again.


    Abbess Clearlotus couldnt bear to watch it anymore. She chanted a sutra, and a golden light fell on the souls. Their warped expressions loosened, as if they had been granted a moment of peace.


    Did War God Fang bring her here to help the dead move on? Jue Panshi wondered.


    Abbess Clearlotus, ask them for the culprits appearance. Itll be best if you can draw them out, Fang Chen said.


    Abbess Clearlotus stopped her sutra. She walked up to the female corpse, squatted down, and began murmuring under her breath.


    This eerie scene rattled even Jade Fairy.


    The crowd exchanged nervous looks.


    Jue Panshi alternated his gaze between Abbess Clearlotus and Fang Chen, and he couldnt help but wonder if War God Fang was off his rockers.


    Do you have anyone whos good atposite drawing? Fang Chen asked Jue Panshi.


    Jue Panshi was startled by the question, but before he could answer, Yuan Zhuang stepped forward and said, War God Fang, Rectifier Chen is skilled atposite drawing.


    Prepare some brush and ink, Fang Chen ordered.


    A momentter, Rectifier Chen squatted down beside Abbess Clearlotus and began drawing. From time to time, he would give a small nod. It took roughly fifteen minutes for the portrait to bepleted.


    Chen Da, do you have any impression of this person? Fang Chen took the painting and showed it to Chen Da.


    Chen Da looked at the painting and frowned in uncertainty. The person in the painting looks familiar to me, but I was too far away to confirm whether its really him or not.


    Jue Panshi btedly realized that Chen Da was a witness. <em>I searched for days but to no avail, but Fang Chen found a witness as soon as he reached the South Immortal Commandery?</em>


    Fang Chen nodded. He stowed away the portrait, not showing it to anyone else.


    Abbess Clearlotus continued chanting to send the deceased off.


    Fang Chen looked at the woman who died embracing her two children and muttered, Many of our good men have died protecting our Great Xia from other countries who covet our resources. These men are the pirs of their families, and they joined the battlefield so that their families could live peaceful lives.


    107 men from the Heavensword Mountain Vi fought under me back when I was still the marshall, and all of them died on the Three Realms Mountain. Yet, harm still befell their families. Does this mean that their sacrifices had been in vain?


    The crowd was rendered speechless. Many of them clenched their fists as hatred flickered across their eyes.


    War God Fang, may I have a look at the portrait? Jue Panshi solemnly said. Ill do everything I can to find the culprit so as to appease the souls of the brutally murdered Qian nsmen!


    You and your Valiant Defenders arent a match for that person. Our young master is the only one who has the means to deal with him, Abbess Clearlotus said as she stood up.


    The crowd was startled. <em>Only Fang Chen could deal with the culprit? Does this mean that the culprit is a Ki Manifestation martial artist?</em>


    Jue Panshi was taken aback.


    Their Valiant Defenders would be out of their league if the culprit was a Ki Manifestation martial artist, but even so, Ki Manifestation martial artists werent infallible. The culprit wouldnt be able to escape if they encircled him with their soldiers.


    Have you sent them off? Fang Chen asked Abbess Clearlotus.


    Abbess Clearlotus nodded. Just then, a surge of spirit ki flowed into her body, manifesting her third immortal vein. She had reached third stage Ki Refinement!


    Only a cultivator could sense the surge in spirit ki, so no one else noticed her breakthrough.


    Abbess Clearlotus wasnt delighted by her breakthrough. Instead, she murmured in resignation, I think I finally understand why my master told me that those in our lineage be colder as we advance our attainment.


    Fang Chen pondered for a moment before he turned to Jue Panshi and instructed, You may bury the corpses now.


    But War God Fang, we havent caught the culprit yet Jue Panshi was startled.


    We wont be putting him on trial even if we capture him. Ill personally send him off, so we wont need these corpses as evidence, Fang Chen replied.


    Yes, young master Jue Panshi was perplexed, but he ordered his subordinate to bury the corpses anyway.


    Tidy up some of the rooms. Well be staying here tonight, Fang Chen instructed Yuan Zhuang and the others.


    The hearts of Yuan Zhuang and the others lurched. <em>Wait, were going to sleep here tonight?!</em>


    Composite drawings are police sketches done based on eye-witness descriptions.

 Chapter 89: Promise

    Chapter 89: Promise


    It was soon nightfall.


    Abbess Clearlotus, your cultivation is different from that of normal cultivators? Fang Chens curiosity was piqued after seeing how she manifested her third immortal vein from cleansing the souls of the dead.


    Those from our lineage enter the secr world to temper our hearts. Through saving others we save ourselves, Abbess Clearlotus replied with a nod.


    Through saving others we save ourselves Fang Chen echoed her words.


    But my master also said tempering hearts in the secr world is no easy feat, which was why she and many others eventually chose an alternative path. Abbess Clearlotus pondered about it before adding, I might do the same too.


    Why? Fang Chen asked.


    Back then, my master entered the secr world and manifested five immortal veins within a single night, but since then, her personality became extremely cold. She was no longer able to raise her cultivation through tempering her heart, Abbess Clearlotus muttered. I might be like my master very soon. What I see today might no longer faze me in the near future.


    Those who see too much sorrow be numb to it Looks like the first hurdle to tempering ones heart is the inability to lie to oneself. Someone whos cold in nature wont benefit even if they cleanse thousands of deceased souls with a hypocritical heart, Fang Chen said.


    Its no wonder I hardly see any Buddhists on the battlefield. Through saving others we save ourselvesits noble, but how many can hold onto their hearts amidst the dust of the secr world? Fang Chen paused for a second before asking Abbess Clearlotus, Have you seen an immortal before?


    Immortal? Abbess Clearlotus was surprised by the question. I have never seen an immortal before. My master told me that there are countless cultivators in this world, but no more than a handful reach immortality. Those who be immortals may lose their humanity. Immortals have hearts as cold as frost, and they see mortal life as transient. To them, there might be no difference between us and the Blood Spirit Cultists."


    Fang Chen recalled the fairy amidst the searing sun he had seen in the Three Realms Mountain, and he had to admit that there might be some credibility behind those words.


    All mortals might be equal in the eyes of an immortal, regardless of good or evil.


    Little nun, Fang Chen suddenly said with a smile.


    Abbess Clearlotus was taken aback. It was rare for Fang Chen to call her little nun, and it was even rarer for him to show such a smile. This reminded her of Li Daoye, and her face reddened.


    Lets make a promise, Fang Chen said.


    What promise? Abbess Clearlotus was intrigued.


    If we do get a chance to reach immortality, lets be secr immortals, immortals with mortality in our hearts. How does that sound? Fang Chen suggested.


    Secr immortals Abbess Clearlotus murmured with an intrigued frown. Young master, do you think there are secr immortals in the world?


    Why not? There will be once we be immortal ourselves. Fang Chen burst intoughter. Thats why, no matter how many joyful moments or tragedies you encounter in the future, you have to make sure to retain your current heart. Dont ever lose your emotions and turn cold.


    Abbess Clearlotus thought about it before vigorously nodding. Mm!


    Its gettingte. You should take a rest. Fang Chen stood up and saw her off.


    Shortly after seeing her out, he drew out his soul and watched the sky from above.


    <em>The Blood Spirit Cultists are the ones absorbing the blood essence of the southern regions martial artists, but why now? They are already scheming a war to bring about great casualties in Great Xia so as to forge their Blood Spirit Divine Pill. Theres no reason for them to do this now. </em>


    Xu Hui mentioned back then that his Senior Bei took the remaining Blood Spirit Cultists out of Great Xia. He should have been the one responsible for overseeing the situation in Great Xia to ensure that nothing went out of hand, but he suddenly left with all other cultivators except for Xu Hui, Goldflower Granny, and Daoist Xue Could he have been trying to settle a private grudge?


    He headed to the southern region to absorb the blood essence of martial artists It could be that he was injured and was trying to use the Blood Spirit Art to recover as fast as possible And the reason he is in such a rush to do so suggests he might have pursuers!


    Fang Chen slowly analyzed the situation and came up with a conjecture. If his conjecture was right, this might be a good opportunity for him to strike.


    Without a doubt, Senior Bei must be much stronger than Xu Hui. There was no guarantee that Fang Chen could take Senior Bei down if thetter was at his peak.


    He couldnt afford to drag things out either. There was a risk Senior Bei might inform the Blood Spirit Cult about his existence, and that would bring about even more trouble in the future.


    But what if Senior Bei was wounded?


    If he could defeat the remaining Blood Spirit Cultists in a single swoop, it would take some time before the Blood Spirit Cult realized what happened here. This would buy time for him to raise his cultivation, so that he would be in a better position to deal with stronger cultivators from the Blood Spirit Cult.


    Thus, Fang Chen swiftly scanned the South Immortal Commandery with his soul.


    In one of the South Immortal Commanderys remote mountain valleys, a white-robed man sat under the moonlight, and spirit ki gathered around and seeped into his body.


    A momentter, he opened his eyes. His face looked beautiful under the cold moonlight.


    The blood essence of a martial artist is much purer than that of mortals. I should be able to make a full recovery with another two hundred martial artists. Heh! Those dogs probably cant imagine that I could heal up so quickly through the Blood Spirit Art!


    Its just a pity that the people I brought there are all dead. Luckily, theres still Xu Hui and the others, so this setback shouldnt affect our ns at Great Xia. Otherwise, I wouldnt be able to exin the situation to the deacon.


    I should quickly forge the four remaining Blood Spirit Divine Pills so that I can be promoted to a deacon. By then, I wouldnt have to waste my time in grade-9 states anymore, the white-robed man muttered with eyes gleaming with greed.


    Martial artists from grade-8 states had much purer blood essence than those from grade-9 states. There were hardly any martial artists who had reached pinnacle Human Profound here, whereas grade-8 empires had Earth Profound martial artists. Those were much more useful to his cultivation.


    Once I advance to ninth stage Ki Refinement, Ill be able to return to my n. Lets see who dares to look down on me by then. Hahaha!


    The likes of you hope to advance to ninth stage Ki Refinement? Zhou Yizeng, lets see where you can escape this time!


    There was a cold sneer, and numerous figures appeared around the mountain valley.


    The white-robed man was stunned, but a cold smile quickly formed on his lips. He looked at the uninvited guests and said, You South Heaven Sects cultivators sure are persistent!


    You shouldnt have offended our First Senior. Youre indeed a wandering cultivator with no backing whatsoever, or else you wouldnt have escaped to this remote ce.


    A seventh stage, two sixth stage, and four fifth stage Ki Refinement cultivators. Such a line up, and you think its enough to deal with me? the white-robed man sneered.


    Zhou Yizeng, you have been severely wounded by our First Elder. Even a sixth stage Ki Refinement cultivator can easily take you down, let alone a seventh stage like me, the leader of the group, the seventh stage Ki Refinement cultivator, sneered.


    That would have been true if I was still severely wounded. The white-robed man stood up, and the sword he carried behind him rose from its sheath and floated in mid-air.


    He has recovered from his injuries?!


    The cultivators from the South Heaven Sect were startled. From what they remembered, the other party had been so severely injured that he couldnt even use artifacts!


    Meanwhile, a soul watched what was happening from the sky.

 Chapter 90: Great Xia As a Pill Cauldron

    Chapter 90: Great Xia As a Pill Cauldron


    Hes the culprit.


    Fang Chen red at Zhou Yizeng from the sky. He was dressed the same as Chen Da remembered him during the day of the Heavensword Mountain Vis massacre, and he had an aura simr to that of Xu Hui and the others.


    Chances were that he was the Senior Bei Xu Hui mentioned.


    He has recovered from his injuries! Lets not waste any time and take him down now!


    Yes!


    The seven cultivators from the South Heaven Sect brought out their artifacts and unleashed their means, enveloping the valley with different-colored lights.


    A battle involving cultivators was shy, if not anything else. It was a sight that would have astounded ordinary mortals and martial artists.


    A bunch of jokes! Zhou Yizeng sneered.


    The sword behind him whizzed forth with a sh of light and overpowered the means of the South Heaven Sects cultivators through sheer force. It continued charging with unstoppable momentum till it pierced through the chests of the South Heaven Sects cultivators.


    Blood sttered everywhere.


    It took only one move for the South Heaven Sects cultivators to copse to the ground with pale faces. They had to quickly channel their spirit ki to heal their injuries. Just like that, they had lost their ability to fight.


    I can see your First Senior is a wary person. Hes worried that I might haveid a trap for him, so he didnt personally give chase, Zhou Yizeng snorted.


    The South Heaven Sects cultivators red at Zhou Yizeng with pale faces.


    This works for me. The blood essence of cultivators are more potent than that of martial artists. Once I absorb your blood essence, I can make a full recovery and even push for a breakthrough to ninth stage Ki Refinement. What a huge gift youre offering me! Zhou Yizengughed.


    Blood essence? Youre cultivating a demonic art?!


    The South Heaven Sects cultivators were horrified.


    Now that I think about it, you had a few other cultivators with you, but they are now nowhere to be seen. You must have sucked their blood essence to recuperate from the severe injuries our First Senior inflicted on you! the seventh stage Ki Refinement cultivator eximed.


    <em>Hes more vicious than I thoughthe doesnt hesitate to kill his people! Were most likely going to die here today!</em>


    Our South Heaven Sect wont tolerate a practitioner of the demonic arts! Our First Senior wont spare you!


    Just you wait! Someone will avenge us if we die!


    South Heaven Sect? Disciples from a lowly sect from a grade-6 state dares to speak such arrogant words. Ill be honest with you. I go by another name, Li Bei. Im a disciple of the Blood Spirit Cult, Zhou Yizeng sneered.


    His beautiful face paired with his twisted smile made him look exceptionally eerie.


    <em>Blood Spirit Cult?!</em>


    The South Heaven Sects disciples were startled. They had heard about the Blood Spirit Cult, and they knew that its waters run deep, but they were an elusive group that rarely appeared in public.


    However, any incident involving them would always result in severe casualties among mortals. More often than not, they would only be discovered after they finished forging their Blood Spirit Divine Pills.


    Y-you are a disciple of the Blood Spirit Cult?! Then this grade-9 state is your pill cauldron?! The seventh stage Ki Refinement cultivator gasped in horror.


    Im surprised you have heard of the term pill cauldron. It looks like you know quite a bit about our Blood Spirit Cult. Do you still think that your measly South Heaven Sect has the strength to deal with me? Zhou Yizeng sneered.


    The South Heaven Sects cultivators fell in despair.


    The seventh stage Ki Refinement cultivator spoke up with a subdued voice, Neither our First Senior nor the rest of us knew about your true identity. We wouldnt have made an enemy out of you if we knew that you were a Blood Spirit Cultist. Please have mercy on us. Well report this matter to our sect. The South Heaven Sect wont cause you any trouble from this day onward.


    What a joke. Zhou Yizeng looked at the seven cultivators teasingly. Do you think Id let you live after revealing that Im a Blood Spirit Cultist? Obediently offer your blood essence and let me drink my fill!


    Zhou Yizeng let out a resounding roar, as he unleashed a stream of red light that enveloped the bodies of the other cultivators. The red light devoured the cultivators blood essence and infused it into his body, causing his aura to grow at a visible rate.


    The faces of the South Heaven Sects cultivators warped in pain. Having their blood essence devoured caused them to slowly lose their spirit ki, and their cultivation plummeted as a result.


    Hahaha! Cultivators blood essence is indeed much purer. I just need six hours to suck you dry, and Ill be able to push for a breakthrough to rank nine Ki Refinement. The day I be a deacon of the Blood Spirit Cult will be the day I destroy your South Heaven Sect! Zhou Yizengughed maniacally.


    Four hours passed in a sh.


    The South Heaven Sects cultivators had grown incredibly weak. Their bodies were as thin as twigs, and they had hardly any spirit ki left in them. Their eyes were dull and devoid of light.


    In contrast, Zhou Yizengs aura had returned to its previous peak. He had fully recovered from his injuries, and he was making use of the blood essence to manifest his ninth immortal vein. By channeling his Blood Spirit Art, he converted the absorbed blood essence into a massive stream of spirit ki that converged into the shape of his ninth immortal vein.


    Zhou Yizeng, Li Bei, youll die a horrible death!


    Not even the Blood Spirit Cult is invincible in this world! Those major sects are always on a lookout for your movements. As soon as they catch wind of your whereabouts, theyll dispatch their men to purge you people!


    Well be waiting for you below!


    Knowing they were doomed, the South Heaven Sects cultivators stopped begging for mercy and instead cursed Zhou Yizeng.


    Waiting for me below? Im afraid that Ill have to disappoint you. Im nning to advance to Foundation Establishment, manifest my Golden Core, and nurture my Nascent Soul. Ill be a powerful cultivator and live for a very long time. Your wait is going to be in vain.


    The edges of Zhou Yizengs lips crept upward.


    Just then, his eyebrows shot up. He turned his gaze toward the entrance of a valley, where a person could be seen making his way toward them.


    Someones here?!


    The South Heaven Sects cultivators trembled. They anxiously turned their heads over, only to be disappointed by what they saw. It wasnt their First Senior but a blind man fumbling over with a walking cane in hand.


    This is not a ce you should be. Get lost, and Ill spare your life, Zhou Yizeng sneered.


    You said that Great Xia is your pill cauldron? Fang Chen asked with closed eyes as he slowly approached Zhou Yizeng a step at a time.


    Hm? Zhou Yizeng was taken aback. How long have you been listening to our conversation?


    You said that our Great Xias civilians are medicine scums? Fang Chen asked as he continued walking toward Zhou Yizeng.


    Brother, you should leave while you can. He doesnt have the spare attention now to deal with you because hes busy trying to manifest his ninth immortal vein. If possible, find a chance to send a message to our South Heaven Sect. Tell our people we died in the hands of Blood Spirit Cultist Li Bei, who has taken on the alias of Zhou Yizeng! the seventh stage Ki Refinement cultivator gathered thest bit of his strength to yell at Fang Chen.


    Hah! I know who you are. Youre Great Xias War God Fang. I heard you regained your Ki Manifestation martial cultivation. I presume youre here over the Heavensword Mountain Vis massacre? Zhou Yizeng suddenly burst intoughter.


    Not only did he recognize Fang Chen, but he also figured out why he was here, though he thought that Fang Chen had only stumbled upon him out of pure coincidence.

 Chapter 91: It’s Time For You to Join Them

    Chapter 91: It¡¯s Time For You to Join Them


    They know each other?


    The South Heaven Sects cultivators exchanged looks. They couldnt understand why a cultivator like Zhou Yizeng was acquainted with a normal martial artist.


    You know me. Fang Chen halted his footsteps.


    It was thanks to you that our Blood Spirit Cult was able to forge six Blood Spirit Divine Pills five years ago, Zhou Yizeng sneered. But youll never understand what truly happened even when youre on your deathbed. Thats the gap between us. Mortals see you as Great Xias War God, but youre a mere chess piece in my eyes.


    Youre indeed unable to make a move. Fang Chenughed.


    What do you mean? Zhou Yizeng narrowed his eyes.


    They are right. You would have dealt with me instead of running your mouth if you could, but youre busy manifesting your ninth immortal vein right now. If you make any move, youll unravel the progress you have made and fail in your breakthrough, Fang Chen pointed out.


    Zhou Yizeng was surprised. <em>Does he know about immortal cultivation too? But how could a mere martial artist learn about this?</em>


    I can sense your confusion, but you wont understand what truly happened even when youre on your deathbed, Fang Chen replied as he raised his hand.


    Brother, you should flee and help us ry our message if you know what youre up against! one of the South Heaven Sects cultivators anxiously cried out. You arent a match for him! Theres nothing you can do that would breach his spirit ki defense!


    Hes right. You dont have the means to harm me. I have my hands full now, but once I finish my breakthrough, Ille looking for you in the capital. Ill force you to watch in despair as I siphon your nsmens blood essence. Youll feel helplessness resonate throughout your entire being. Itll be an emotion that lingers even after your death, Zhou Yizeng said with a vile grin.


    Ive already sent Xu Hui, Goldflower Granny, and Daoist Xue on their way. You ought to apany them. Fang Chen chuckled.


    Without any warning, he whipped out the Moonsunk Gold Truncheon and viciously smashed it on Zhou Yizengs head.


    <em>What?!</em>


    Zhou Yizeng was shocked by Fang Chens words. <em>Xu Hui, Goldflower Granny, and Daoist Xue were dead? </em>He was so shaken up by the revtion that he btedly noticed the terrifying might of the Moonsunk Gold Truncheon.


    <em>One, two, three Its a twelve daosoul imprint artifact?! He actually has such a formidable treasure?</em>


    By then, it was toote for Zhou Yizeng to dodge the attack even if he wanted to. He tried to channel his spirit ki to protect himself, but his spirit ki dissipated the moment it came into contact with the Moonsunk Gold Truncheon.


    The Moonsunk Gold Truncheon smashed into Zhou Yizengs head with unstoppable force!


    Zhou Yizengs body disintegrated under the sheer impact. His immortal veins dissipated, causing his umted spirit ki to gush out and return to the world. All that was left of him was his sword and his lingering aura.


    The red light shrouding the South Heaven Sects cultivators vanished due to Zhou Yizengs death, but despite being freed, they could only stare at Fang Chen with dazed eyes.


    <em>An eighth stage Ki Refinement cultivator, who was on the verge of advancing to the ninth stage, was smashed to death by a Ki Manifestation martial artist just like that?</em>


    A twelve daosoul imprint artifact Even our South Heaven Sect only has a handful of them'''' one of the South Heaven Sects cultivators murmured.


    He doesnt have a storage ring? Fang Chen frowned.


    It would appear that storage rings were scarce in the world of cultivation. He picked up the sword on the ground and stowed it in his storage ring. Then, he turned around to face the seven cultivators from the South Heaven Sect.


    Are you all right?


    Zhou Yizeng has siphoned all our blood essence. We wont live for long. We have written down an ount of the situation in this jade seal. If its not too much to ask for, could you deliver it to our South Heaven Sect? Its located in the southern region of the Infernoze Country. Wed be truly grateful to you for that


    The seventh stage Ki Refinement cultivator took out a jade seal and ced it beside him. Before Fang Chen could say a word, he closed his eyes and breathed hisst.


    The same happened to the other cultivators too. They had already reached their limits, just that they were forcing themselves to hold on through sheer tenacity.


    I guess this is for the best Fang Chen murmured.


    He would have been put in a spot if those cultivators survived. They had seen his Moonsunk Gold Truncheon, and they knew that he was the one who killed Zhou Yizeng. If these cultivators survived, they would have posed a risk to him.


    He quickly ransacked the bodies and tossed all of their items into his storage ring. Then, he dug a huge hole and buried the seven cultivators in there.


    This mountain valley will probably bloom like never before, Fang Chen muttered before taking his leave.


    The spirit ki emanating from the deceased seven cultivators would change the environment of this mountain valley.


    Four hourster, Fang Chen returned to the Heavensword Mountain Vi.


    He headed to his room, and with a wave of his sleeves, he took out the items he had stowed inside his storage ring.


    The first item he inspected was Zhou Yizengs sword. It had eight daosoul imprints on it, so it should be worth quite a few ki stones if he chose to sell it. It would also be a decent weapon if he chose to keep it.


    Then, he checked the items he had looted from the South Heaven Sects cultivators. All in all, they had over 200 low-grade ki stones. They also had a few artifacts and cultivation manuals, which were things that Fang Chen needed the most at the moment.


    I mustnt easily trust others in the world of cultivation. Fang Chen made up his mind.


    He had merely taken a small trip, and his fortune had grown significantly. He had over 400 low-grade ki stones at hand, and his wealth could be further increased if he sold his artifacts.


    Purple Aura Form. I should let my parents practice this cultivation method.


    Fang Chen picked up one of the manuals and flipped through it. It was an orthodox cultivation method, unlike the Blood Spirit Art.


    Fireball Art? Ice Arrow Art? He looked at two other manuals and found that the Fireball Art was simr to the one practiced by Goldflower Granny. <em>It must be amon cultivator skill. </em>I should try practicing the Fireball Art and the Ice Arrow Art when I return.


    With such a thought in mind, he stowed away his items. He took out his brush, cinnabar, and talisman paper and began drawing Purple Lightning Talismans. This was his way of cultivation.


    The following morning, Jue Panshi paid Fang Chen a visit. He wanted some pointers as to what he could do to help apprehend the culprit behind the Heavensword Mountain Vis massacre.


    Hes dead, Fang Chen replied.


    Dead?! Jue Panshi was taken aback. <em>It was just a single night, but Fang Chen has already eliminated the culprit behind the Heavensword Mountain Vis massacre? Unbelievable!</em>


    Indeed. Ill be heading back today, but Ill be leaving Rectifier Yuan and the others behind so as to assist you in dealing with the smaller sects oppressing the popce. Such practices shouldnt be tolerated, Fang Chen said.

 Chapter 92: Superior State

    Chapter 92: Superior State


    Upon learning that Fang Chen was nning to return to the capital, Huangfu Jie rushed over and asked in disbelief, Young master, is the culprit really dead?


    He was shocked when he learned of the news from Jue Panshi.


    <em>The culprit behind the Heavensword Mountain Vis massacre was dealt with in a single night?</em>


    Abbess Clearlotus and Jade Fairy were astonished. Yuan Zhuang and the others were stunned. They were prepared to use every skill they had in their arsenal to scrutinize every detail so as to uncover the culprits whereabouts.


    None of them had expected to receive such news from Fang Chen in a single night.


    The culprit is dead. I n on returning to the capital today. Yuan Zhuang and the others, youll stay behind and work with Chiliarch Jue to deal with the minor sects oppressing the popce. Huangfu Jie, youre close to reaching Ki Manifestation, so you should head back to train hard, Fang Chen instructed.


    The crowd was still skeptical about this matter, but they swallowed their doubts since it was Fang Chen they were talking about here.


    Its a pity I didnt get to trade blows with the culprit. Huangfu Jie sighed before sping his fist at Fang Chen. Ill return to the Profound Saber Sect and go into seclusion training. I wonte out till I reach Ki Manifestation. See you soon, young master!


    I shant send you off, Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    An hourter, after Yuan Zhuang saw Fang Chen and the twodies off, he turned to Chiliarch Jue and said, War God Fang has instructed us to work with you to deal with the minor sects causing trouble in the South Immortal Province. This is your turf. Where should we start?


    Jue Panshi stared at Yuan Zhuang before replying, We have a list in our barracks. Well start from those sects first.


    He knew that Fang Chen had left Yuan Zhuang to serve as an eye and a warning. If he failed to resolve this matter, Fang Chen woulde after him. Thest thing he wanted to do was to get on bad terms with Great Xias War God.


    On the way back to the capital, Abbess Clearlotus hesitantly spoke up, Young master, have you eliminated that Blood Spirit Cultist?


    Jade Fairy pricked up her ears. This was not the first time she had heard of the term Blood Spirit Cult, and she was curious to know what kind of an organization it was.


    He is dead. We should have eliminated all of the Blood Spirit Cultists stationed in Great Xia. However Fang Chen frowned worriedly. We have barely scratched the tip of the iceberg of the Blood Spirit Cult. Great Xia is safe for now, but it wont be long before the Blood Spirit Cult sends someone over to check on the situation.


    Abbess Clearlotus was concerned as well. Should I request for my masters help? As long as we defeat the Foundation Establishment Blood Spirit Cultist in charge of Great Xia, their lead to Great Xia should disappear.


    What do you mean? Fang Chen asked in surprise.


    The Blood Spirit Cult is divided into many independent units to conceal their trail. The cultivator in charge of Great Xia is likely a unit leader. Not even their superiors know which countries he is forging the Blood Spirit Divine Pills in, lest a traitor appear amongst them.


    Abbess Clearlotus paused for a moment before exining,  My master once killed a Foundation Establishment Blood Spirit Cultist. Thats where she learned the news from.


    I see Fang Chen nodded.


    <em>It looks like Abbess Clearlotus sect is considerably strong, given how her master was able acquire such critical information and y a Foundation Establishment cultivator. If we kill the Foundation Establishment Blood Spirit Cultist in charge of Great Xia, well be able to enjoy prolonged peace. </em>


    But will your master be willing to stand up for Great Xia? This matteres with risks, after all, Fang Chen said.


    Abbess Clearlotus face reddened. I dont know either. I can try persuading her. She should be willing to lend a helping hand


    Why dont I get Li Daoye and Tie Ma to apany you? Your cultivation is still low, so itll be best for someone to look after you, Fang Chen said.


    All right. Abbess Clearlotus nodded.


    In the capitals eastern city gates, a special armyprising over a hundred horseback soldiers dressed in ck armor appeared. Even their steeds were armored from top to bottom, such that their hooves left faint marks on the hard tiles.


    The civilians were taken aback, not knowing where this army was from. However, the more knowledgeable merchants quietly eximed among themselves:


    They are from a superior state!


    Those from Nightmare Knights! Its said that every one of them possesses strength matching that of a pinnacle Ki Control martial artist!


    Ah Someone gasped.


    The surrounding martial artists were taken aback.


    Even five years ago, when Great Xia was at its peak, its number of Ki Control martial artists numbered less than a hundred. Needless to say, there were even fewer Ki Control martial artists among them now.


    It was only natural for them to be bbergasted when met with an armyprising over a hundred Ki Control martial artists.


    The leader of the army was a purple-robed youth, whose ck hair cascaded to his shoulders. He noticed the civilians shocked looks and the martial artists worried murmurs, which made the edges of his lips curl upward, as disdain flickered across his eyes.


    Just then, a group of over a hundred Great Xias officials rushed out to wee them. The leader of the group was Minister of Rites Tao Mingsheng, and there were Guhe and Yizhou schrs among them too.


    Someone from a superior state is here. Longdu must have lodged aint against Great Xia! Long Huixin, who was amidst the group, was overjoyed by the turn of events.


    Great Xias Minister of Rites Tao Mingsheng pays respects to milord!


    Tao Mingsheng and his officials galloped over, got off their steeds, and kneeled to the purple-robed man. The civilians watching themotion were taken aback. Some of them started kneeling down, and the others quickly followed suit.


    Before long, all of the Great Xias civilians near the eastern city gates were kneeling.


    In the imperial pce, Xia Yu and his mother, Noble Consort Hua, their siblings, and the concubines stood behind the emperor and the empress.


    The Chillwater Country sent someone over. This is unlikely to end well. The emperor grimly looked at the purple-robed youth and the Nightmare Knights he brought.


    The empress was worried too.


    Shortly after Great Xia pushed back Longdu and slew their Ki Manifestation expert, Marquess Xianyu, the Chillwater Country sent someone to Great Xias capital. There was a good chance they were here to pin crimes on them.


    Chillwater Country was Great Xia, Longdu, Guhe, and Yizhous superior state.


    Longdu had been paying an increasing amount of tribute to Chillwater in recent years, whereas the amount of tribute Great Xia had been offering had been decreasing with each passing year. It was clear whom Chillwater was going to side with here.


    Its all because of your nephew. The emperor side-eyed the empress and harrumphed.


    The empress face darkened.


    The concubines revealed gloating looks.


    Noble Consort Hua took this opportunity to step forward and say, Your Majesty, theres no need to worry. Since Fang Chen is the cause of this matter, all we have to do is to have him apologize to the envoys from the superior state.

 Chapter 93: Ji Lengyue

    Chapter 93: Ji Lengyue


    The empress coldly red at Noble Consort Hua and questioned, Why should Chener apologize to the superior state? Its doubtful whether youd still be standing there if Chener had not in Marquess Xianyu on the Great Xia River.


    Noble Consort Hua chuckled softly and calmly reasoned, Your Majesty, theres a cause and effect behind everything. If not for Fang Chen killing Viscount Zhou Xiu, Longdu wouldnt have sent its army to attack us. The superior state also wouldnt have to send an envoy down.


    Zhou Xiu killed our people. He reaped what he sowed, the empress replied.


    But thats not for Fang Chen to decide, Noble Consort Hua replied. Great Xia belongs to His Majesty, not Fang Chen. Your Majesty, you should be more prudent in drawing that distinction.


    Their argument vexed the emperor, and he impatiently bellowed, Have you argued enough yet? If so, lets focus on how we should resolve this matter!


    There was a short pause before he added, Follow me to wee Chillwaters envoy.


    The purple-robed man looked at the kneeling Tao Mingsheng and chuckled. Despite offering fewer tribute to us with each passing year, your Great Xia killed so many Longdu cavalrymen. Even Marquess Xianyu lost his life in your capital. If you ask me, I dont think you have fallen into decline at all; if anything, youre growing stronger. Are you intending to eliminate Longdu, Guhe, and Yizhou first before challenging us?


    Those words sent a shudder down the officials spine.


    <em>Challenge Chillwater? That is impossible. Even thebined prowess of Great Xia, Longdu, Guhe, and Yizhou wont match the tip of Chillwaters iceberg. </em>


    They had seen how powerful Chillwater was back in their younger days. Just the Nightmare Knights could crush all four countries in a month!


    Milord, our Great Xia has no such intention! Tao Mingsheng eximed with a lowered head.


    Empty words. Im here to demand an exnation, the purple-robed youth scoffed. Speaking of which, I ought to introduce myself. I am Ji Lengyue. Zhou Xiu, who died in the hands of your Great Xia, is my distant cousin.


    What?!


    Zhou Xiu is rted to a superior state?!


    Surely not


    The crowd was stunned. Tao Mingsheng and the others were bbergasted. They finally understood why Longdu had reacted so strongly to Zhou Xius death.


    Who could have thought that Viscount Zhou Xiu would have ties with a superior state?


    Ji n Could it be Tao Mingsheng froze up, and his face turned pale.


    He suddenly recalled that Chillwater Country had a powerful n known as the Ji n, and they controlled nearly half the country. Even the infamous Nightmare Knights were nurtured by them!


    There were rumors that the Ji n captured the Nightmare Knights steeds from a mysterious ce, and each steed wasparable to a Ki Explosion martial artist. When they were paired with pinnacle Ki Control soldiers, the Nightmare Knights wielded the power to dominate any battlefield.


    Thus far, the Nightmare Knights had been unstoppable wherever they appeared.


    Several figures amidst the crowd discreetly retreated into the shadows before rushing toward the Fang n.


    Lets go. Lets not keep your emperor waiting for long, Ji Lengyue said.


    He signaled for his horse to gallop forth, and the Nightmare Knights behind him quickly followed him in an orderly fashion.


    Tao Mingsheng and the others hurriedly took their positions behind Ji Lengyue and followed them to the imperial pce.


    As soon as the Nightmare Knights were gone, the civilians panicked.


    Our Great Xia is in danger!


    Zhou Xiu actually has the bloodline of a superior state. I wonder how they will deal with this.


    Well probably have to hand over War God Fang to resolve this matter


    War God Fang might be famous in Great Xia, but the superior state likely sees him as an ant they can crush whenever they want. Our Great Xia wont be able to protect him


    Long Huixin and the others smiled upon hearing the surrounding discussions.


    Miss Long, youll finally get what you want, someone said in delight.


    Long Huixin chuckled. I knew this day woulde. Given how arrogant Fang Chen was acting, it was only a matter of time before someone curbed him.


    Long Huixin looked at Ji Lengyues departing figure with greedy eyes. <em>Hes already an envoy despite his young age, and hes from the Ji n on top of that. If I could win his fancy and bear his child, there would be no greater protection for Guhe!</em>


    She could guess Zhou Xius origin, and she wanted to have offspring like that


    Not far away, Li Daoye sneered in disdain, A mere Earth Profound martial artist acting as if he owns the world. He thinks too highly of himself!


    Earth Profound? Tie Ma was taken aback. Are you able to defeat him, Daoye? What stage of Earth Profound is he at?


    The two of them had just returned from Dragonback Lane when they stumbled upon this sight. Tie Ma was also surprised to learn that Zhou Xiu had the blood of the Ji n running through his veins.


    Fang Chen had been wondering that there might be more to Zhou Xius identity, but this was bigger than they had expected.


    Back when he was still a Hidden Dragon in Greenpine, he had seen Greenpines superior state. Chillwaters military prowess was likelyparable to that.


    Judging from his aura, he should be at the first stage of Earth Profound. As for whether wed be able to defeat him Li Daoye sneered. Youre underestimating me. Id hesitate to fight you with the talismans you have, but I have a hundred ways to curb a mere first stage Earth Profound martial artist!


    That was the gap between a cultivator and a martial artist; both were not at the same level.


    Lets head back first to consult the young master. They seem to harbor hostile intentions; therell likely be a conflict, Tie Ma said.


    The two of them returned to the Fang Manor and saw Fang Cangyou, Xu Ge, and Huang Sihai gathered together. Clearly, they had received news about Ji Lengyues arrival at the capital.


    You came on time. The young master isnt here, so we should discuss how we should deal with Chillwater, Xu Ge said.


    The young master isnt here? Tie Ma was taken aback.


    Wheres he? Wheres Abbess Clearlotus? Did he kidnap my Little Abbess?! I knew something was off! He sent me off so that he could monopolize Little Abbess! Li Daoye eximed in sheer regret.


    Daoye, our young master headed to the southern region to resolve some matters. What in the world is going through your mind? Xu Ge rolled his eyes.


    Whats there to fear? Chillwater is just a grade-8 state, right? Li Daoye scoffed. Hed be scared out of his mind if either Abbess Clearlotus or I confront him. Whats more important right now is for us to find my Little Abbess!


    <em>Hm?</em>


    The crowd exchanged looks. Fang Cangyou turned to Li Daoye and asked, Daoye, what does that mean? Are you and Abbess Clearlotus powerful figures in Chillwater Country?


    Of course not! Abbess Clearlotus and I are from Infernoze Country. Thats a grade-6 state, far stronger than the likes of Chillwater Country, Li Daoye sneered.


    <em>Grade-6 state?!</em>


    The crowd was taken aback. Fang Cangyou burst intoughter. Who could have known that there were two powerhouses hiding in their Fang Manor. Chillwaters envoy had messed with the wrong people this time around!

 Chapter 94: Fight to the Dying Breath

    Chapter 94: Fight to the Dying Breath


    For normal civilians, it didnt matter whether the person they were interacting with was from a superior state or not; they would still treat the other party however they should.


    However, this was a sensitive matter among the officials. The officials had to regard every civilian from a superior state carefully, lest it cause a diplomatic affair. Superior states could easily destroy a lower state, so carelessness here could have catastrophic consequences.


    Daoye, you arent lying, right? Youre really from a grade-6 state? Xu Ge gasped in disbelief.


    Whats there to lie about? Li Daoye grumbled in dissatisfaction. Grade-6 states arent that formidable either. There are grade-5 and grade-4 states above them too. Honestly, its not that different from grade-9 states.


    Theres a huge difference! At least Chillwater would have to think twice before dealing with our young master, Xu Ge eximed in delight.


    Just then, amotion could be heard from the entrance. A guard rushed in and reported, Second master, the Valiant Defenders Commander Xiao Shence and the Imperial Guards General Yan Beihan are at our door. They are arresting everyone from the Fang Manor for interrogation!


    They must be out of their mind! Do they intend to bring down our Fang Manor?! Fang Cangyou was so angry that he nearly stood up from his wheelchair, but he held himself back.


    Our First Madam and young miss have been captured! the guard anxiously said. Our men arent a match for the Valiant Defenders and the Imperial Guards. Second Master, what should we do?


    Those bastards! Huang Sihai smashed the tea set next to him.


    Xu Ges eyes zed with fury. Li Daoye was astounded.


    Ill ughter them! Huang Sihai roared as he stood up.


    Fang Cangyou quickly stopped him. Calm down, Old Huang! Chener isnt back yet. Lets not cause more trouble for him now.


    Second Master, are we going to let them do as they please and capture everyone from the Fang Manor? Huang Sihai roared.


    Violence shouldnt be the first resort. Old Huang, you need to kick that bad habit of yours, Fang Cangyou said. Come, lets head out and take a look. I want to see what Xiao Shence and Yan Beihan are up to this time.


    The Fang Manor was in a mess.


    Fang Chens mother, Fang Zhixue, the younger Fang nsmen, the guards, the butler, the servants, and the maids were all surrounded by the Valiant Defenders at the sparring field.


    Yan Beihan looked at the hundreds of people before him and sighed. He turned to Xiao Shence and said, We have thoroughly offended Fang Chen with this move.


    We dont have a choice. Its His Majestys order. Our ns will be beheaded if we defy the imperial edict, Xiao Shence replied.


    Its fortunate Fang Chen is not in the capital at the moment, or else wed be put in a spot. Hopefully this matter is properly resolved before Fang Chen returns, Yan Beihan muttered.


    What are you doing?! Fang Chens mother roared at Xiao Shence and Yan Beihan. This is the Fang Manor. The least you can do is to provide us with a valid reason before apprehending us.


    Madam Fang, pardon us for this offense. We didnt want to do this either. Chillwaters envoy insisted we apprehend you right away to be interrogated, Yan Beihan sped his fist and said.


    <em>Chillwater? </em>


    The crowd was stunned. Guhe, Yizhou, Longdu, and Great Xia were Chillwaters vassal states; the four of them had to pay a tribute to Chillwater every year!


    Your Fang Manor is in big trouble. Viscount Zhou Xiu, whom Fang Chen executed back then, had blood ties with Chillwaters Ji n, Xiao Shence said. Chillwater hase to demand an exnation. His Majesty has his hands tied too. I hope that youll cooperate with us.


    How could Zhou Xiu be rted to Chillwater?


    How dare they step into our Great Xia?! They received Great Xias tribute every year, but they refused to stand up for us back when we were invaded by Greenpine!


    Some of the younger Fang nsmen were infuriated. Most of them were military orphans, with their fathers being soldiers buried in the Immemorial Mausoleum. The world med Fang Chen for losing the war, but they saw the sacrifices the Fang n made for Great Xia.


    If Chillwater had stepped forward to mediate, there wouldnt have been such a bitter war between Great Xia and Greenpine. Yet, Chillwater had the galls to interrogate them today over Longdus affairnot to forget that Longdu was the invader here! How could they not be angry?


    Madam Fang, you should make them watch their mouths. Your Fang n could be executed if Chillwaters envoy hears their words, Xiao Shence said.


    Executing our Fang n? What arrogant words! This is Great Xia, not Chillwater!


    Xu Ge pushed Fang Cangyou out. Old Huang, Tie Ma, and the others apanied them.


    The Valiant Defenders and Imperial Guards warily eyed them, not daring to carelessly approach.


    You people sure are callous. The least you can do is to wait for my big brother to return first, Fang Cangyou said.


    Second Master Fang, its not that we dont want to wait. Chillwaters envoy is the one who doesnt want to wait, Xiao Shence replied.


    Forget it. Fang Cangyou eyed the Valiant Defenders and the Imperial Guards. Now that were all gathered here, tell us what you intend to do. Lock us up?


    General Fang has already been called to the imperial pce. As for War God Fang, I heard that hes currently out of the capital. Well wait for him to return first. Theres one more person from the Fang n who isnt here yet, Xiao Shence said.


    One more person?


    The crowd was stunned.


    A secondter, Fang Cangyous face darkened. Youre referring to my father? He has been in seclusion training for many years now to ovee his pinnacle Ki Control bottleneck. What are you nning to do?


    Fang Chens mother bellowed, Dont you dare disturb our Old Master, or else therell be no room for reconciliation. As long as theres a single person left in our Fang n, well fight you to the dying breath!


    Well fight you to the dying breath! the young Fang nsmen and guards roared in unison.


    Haaa Xiao Shence sighed. I already told you this matter is out of my control. Were just obeying imperial orders.


    He eyed his subordinates. Without any hesitation, five chiliarchs led arge army of Valiant Defenders into the depths of the Fang Manor.


    Over there was a peaceful courtyard, where all of the Fang nsmen knew the Old Master was in seclusion training. It was usually guarded, and no one was allowed to enter the premises.


    Xiao Shence, how dare you! Fang Cangyou bellowed. Just try stepping into that courtyard, and Ill make sure not a single one of you leaves this ce alive!


    Old Huang sneered as cracking sounds echoed from his body. Xu Ge and Tie Ma drew their swords and coldly eyed Xiao Shence.


    Are you rebelling right now? Xiao Shence asked with sharp eyes.


    Yan Beihan heaved another sigh. Thest thing he wanted was for things to blow up like this.


    Men, kill anyone who dares to defy imperial orders! Xiao Shence ordered.


    ng ng ng!


    All of the Valiant Defenders drew their weapons, and the situation became even more tense.


    Just then, an elderly voice boomed, Whats going on?


    An old man dressed in traditional clothes walked over from afar.


    Fang Cangyou and the others were astonished. <em>Our Old Master has emerged from his seclusion training?</em>

 Chapter 95: Fang Zhentian

    Chapter 95: Fang Zhentian


    The old man had a face filled with wrinkles that made him look as if he was ready to return to the soil, but not a single person present dared to make light of him.


    Fang Zhentian was an imperial courts veteran, having served three generations of emperors. His seniority towers above that of the Minister of Justice, Jiang Yushu. His achievements were also resounding, as more than thirty percent of Great Xias territory was conquered by him.


    He was a prodigious martial artist, reaching pinnacle Ki Control at a young age. However, the many internal traumas he had received from his many years of fighting rendered him unable to advance to Ki Manifestation.


    As he advanced in age, he handed over his military power back to the imperial court and began idling at home. Fang Canghai and Fang Cangyou were in their prime then, so they took his role and became the new pirs propping Great Xias military.


    Even so, there was a huge gap between Fang Zhantian and his two sons in terms of their martial art talent and theirmanding ability. The Fang n slowly began to lose its prestige, till Fang Chen emerged.


    A key reason behind Fang Chens swift rise to power back then was due to Fang Zhentians influence. Many of the older generations saw a younger Fang Zhentian in Fang Chen, and they felt inclined to support this rising star of Great Xia.


    Xiao Shence and Yan Beihan reflexively took a step back, with doubt brimming in their eyes. <em>The Fang ns Old Master hase out of his seclusion? Does that mean he has managed to make a breakthrough to Ki Manifestation, or did he fail?</em>


    Father, did you make a breakthrough? Fang Cangyou asked with hopeful eyes.


    You brat, how did you end up on a wheelchair? If you listened to me and started a family, you wouldnt have gotten into trouble and crippled your legs, Fang Zhentian roared.


    Fang Cangyou looked awkward. Yan Beihan also fidgeted ufortably on the spot, as he was the one who crippled Fang Cangyou.


    Father.


    Fang Chens mother rushed forward to support Fang Zhentian. Fang Zhixue quickly followed suit and supported the old man from the other side.


    Lass, you have reached Ki Explosion? Not bad, not bad. You are the most talented woman in our Fang Manor. Fang Zhentian looked at Fang Zhixue with a smile.


    Fang Zhixue responded with a proud smile. Grandfather, Im nning to reach Ki Control in the near future.


    Good, good. I hope to see it when that dayes. Fang Zhentian patted Fang Zhixues head. He turned to Fang Chens mother and asked, Wheres Canghai?


    ording to them, my husband has been taken to the imperial court.


    Fang Chens mother concisely exined everything that has happened to Fang Zhentian.


    Oh? Chener has regained his martial cultivation? Thats good news. A glint shed across Fang Zhentians eyes.


    Fang Cangyou quickly added, Father, Fang Chen has not just regained his martial cultivation but is now stronger than ever. You dont have to go into seclusion anymore.


    It was when Fang Chen was defeated in the Three Realms Mountain five years and lost his sight and had his martial cultivation crippled that Fang Zhentian went into seclusion, determined to reach Ki Manifestation so that he could protect his n.


    Wheres Chener? Fang Zhentian ignored Fang Cangyou and asked Fang Chens mother.


    Chener has gone to the southern region to settle some matters. Im not sure when hell return, Fang Chens mother replied.


    Are the martial artists in the southern region causing trouble again? Fang Zhentian muttered. Those fellows arent easy to deal with, but Chener should be able to suppress them.


    There was a pause before Fang Zhentian turned to Xiao Shence and Yan Beihan. What did His Majesty tell you?


    His Majesty ordered everyone from the Fang Manor to head to the Pce of Great Peace. Chillwaters envoy wants to get to the bottom of Zhou Xius death, Xiao Shence said.


    Who did Chillwater send? Fang Zhentian asked.


    The Ji ns Ji Lengyue, Xiao Shence replied. His Majesty has his hands tied for this matter. Chillwater is interfering in this because Viscount Zhou Xiu, whom Fang Chen killed not long ago, happens to have the Ji ns bloodline.


    The Ji n who created the Nightmare Knights? Fang Zhentian frowned. I crossed blows with the Nightmare Knights in my younger years. They are indeed a force to be reckoned with.


    The crowd was startled. Xiao Shence and Yan Beihan exchanged gazes too.


    <em>Was the Fang ns Old Master so formidable as to have shed with the Ji ns Nightmare Knights?</em>


    We should head to the Pce of Great Peace since it is His Majestys order, Fang Zhentian said. Regardless of the problem, we just have to talk things through.


    Old Huang and the others dropped the idea of resorting to force. They knew that Fang Chen would punish them if they defied Fang Zhentians orders.


    One of you should remain here to update Chener when he returns, Fang Zhentian told Xiao Shence.


    Commander, Ill stay behind. Chiliarch Niu Jue volunteered himself.


    Xiao Shence nced at him before nodding. All right, youll stay behind.


    A huge crowd had gathered outside the Fang n by then.


    The arrival of the Valiant Defenders and the Imperial Guards had caused such a hugemotion that it was impossible to conceal what was going on. Many ns had sent their servants over to scout out the situation.


    The crowd was taken aback when they saw the Fang n being escorted out of their manor by the Valiant Defenders and the Imperial Guards.


    Does Chillwater intend to massacre them? They are taking their servants and maids too!


    Where is War God Fang?


    A few people in the crowd eyed the Valiant Defenders and the Imperial Guards with eyes overflowing with hostility, but after some exchange of gazes with Xu Ge and the others, they chose to hold themselves back.


    Our emperor cant possibly turn a blind eye to the matter now that Chillwaters envoy is here. The Fang Manor is doomed.


    Whos that old man?


    Hm? Could that be the Fang Manors Old Master?


    It does look like him


    It looks like things have gotten serious. Of course, how could Great Xia dare to fool Chillwater?


    Why is Fang Chen nowhere to be seen?


    I heard hes out of the capital.


    Did that brat escape because he knew Chillwater wasing?


    Guhe and Yizhou schrs pointed their fingers at the Fang Manor as they gossiped among themselves.


    Meanwhile, a group of Great Xias scions, led by Tao Yu and Ye Qinghe, was also watching the situation from the streets.


    Even the Fang Manors Old Master was forced out of his seclusion? Ye Qinghe was astonished.


    He had heard much about Fang Zhentians affairs from his father; thetter was practically a Fang Chen in his era. Yet, they forced such a person out of his seclusion?


    The Fang n is over. Tao Yu frowned. Without the Fang n, our Great Xias military will be much weaker than before. This isnt good for our soldiers morale.


    Brother Tao, this is good news. The Fang n has always dominated the imperial court. Their absence will be a blessing to our Great Xia.


    Indeed. Fang Chen only knows how to cause trouble. He messed with the wrong person this time around and got us into trouble with Chillwater.


    Quite a few youths agreed with Ye Qinghe. They were envious at how Fang Chen, despite being at the same age as them, had aplished feats beyond what they could do in their lifetimes.


    You fools. Tao Yu red at them in disdain. We might be on bad terms with Fang Chen, but this is just an internal conflict. Do you really think the downfall of the Fang n will benefit our Great Xia? What if Longdu attacks us once more? Who is going to stop them?


    The crowd was taken aback.


    Ye Qinghe looked at Tao Yu and calmly replied, There are many other talents in the military, just that they have been outshone by Fang Chen. Others will naturally step up to defend our Great Xia if the Fang n falls.


    Qinghe, Id have agreed with you if the Fang n fell when we werent facing external threats. That would have been good news. However, you are taking our Great Xias security for granted. We cant allow the Fang n to fall, at least not at this juncture. Tao Yu shook his head.


    Ye Qinghe wanted to argue against that, only to suddenly notice something and exim, Hm? Those from the Court of Great Brilliance are here!

 Chapter 96: Back Off!

    Chapter 96: Back Off!


    The street was already crowded due to the Fang nsmen, the Valiant Defenders, and the Imperial Guards, and the arrival of those from the Court of Brilliance only made it worse.


    Xiao Shence raised his hand, indicating for everyone to stop. He looked at the man standing in his way with a frown. It was the Court of Great Brilliances Court Master, the Fifth King!


    Fifth King, this Xiao Shence sped his fist.


    Lil Five, why are you joining themotion? Fang Zhentian asked.


    You have juste out of seclusion. As juniors, we ought to give you a warm wee. Ignoring Xiao Shence, the Fifth King stepped forward with a warm smile. He turned to his subordinates and ordered, What are you waiting for? Escort Old Master Fang and the Fang nsmen to our Court of Great Brilliance!


    Those from the Court of Great Brilliance stepped forward to take over the Fang nsmen from the Valiant Defenders and Imperial Guards hands.


    Xiao Shence and Yan Beihan were taken aback.


    Fifth King, youre defying His Majestys will, Xiao Shence said with a darkened face.


    What are you saying? Im just inviting Old Master Fang and the others to reminisce about the past at the Court of Great Brilliance. Tell His Majesty that Ill personally send them overter on, the Fifth King grunted impatiently.


    That wont do. His Majesty requested us to bring them to the Pce of Great Peace right away. Chillwaters envoy is waiting for us. Xiao Shence shook his head.


    You should be aware that the Fang n is an official n, which puts them in the jurisdiction of my Court of Great Brilliance. The Valiant Defenders and Imperial Guards are overstepping their boundaries here. The Fifth King frowned. Xiao Shence, have you forgotten that your Valiant Defenders have no enforcement power in the inner city?


    The Fifth King turned to Yan Beihan and sneered, General Yan, youre no different. Why are your Imperial Guards here instead of protecting His Majesty? Not only are you overstepping your boundaries, but youre shirking your responsibilities too!


    Yan Beihan was put in a spot.


    It couldnt be clearer that the Fifth King was here to snatch the Fang nsmen from them, but he wasnt nning to surrender them to Chillwater.


    Not far away, Ye Qinghe watched this sight with eyes burning with fury. Whats the Fifth King doing? Doesnt he know that his wilful actions will bring Chillwaters wrath upon us? He should know that theres nothing he can do to protect the Fang Manor!


    Hes probably stalling for time for Fang Chen to return and settle this matter, Tao Yu replied.


    Its useless, Ye Qinghe sneered. Fang Chen is nothing before Chillwaters military might.


    Xiao Shence also saw through the Fifth Kings intention, so he tried persuading thetter to step down, Fifth King, I know that youre stalling for time, but this matter has severe repercussions. I believe you wouldnt want Chillwater to send troops into our Great Xia too, right?


    What nonsense are you spouting? the Fifth King roared. Im fulfilling the natural duties of our Court of Great Brilliance, but here you are, suppressing me with Chillwater. Are you an official of Great Xia or Chillwater?!


    Seeing how badly theirmander was being berated angered the Valiant Defenders, and they tightened their grips on their weapons.


    Lil Five, you can head back now, Fang Zhentian said. Ill invite you to our Fang Manor for tea another day. Today isnt a good day.


    That wont do. I insist on reminiscing about the past with you today. No one can stop me from getting my way. The Fifth King shook his head.


    Xiao Shence and Yan Beihan finally understood just how high Fang Zhentians prestige was even though he hadnt made an appearance for many years. Even the Fifth King was willing to put himself at risk in order to protect him


    Fifth King, your Court of Great Brilliance shouldnt havee here today.


    Just then, Minister of Justice Jiang Yushu arrived with another group of people.


    Xiao Shence and Yan Beihan were stumped.


    Old Jiang, what are you doing? The Fifth King was taken aback.


    We have received a tipoff that the Fang Manor might be involved in some crimes, so were here to invite them to our Bureau of Justice for some tea, Jiang Yushu calmly replied.


    I see The Fifth King frowned. I shant stop you then. You may take them with you.


    Milords, please dont take me for a fool. Xiao Shence couldnt hold his anger anymore. Neither of you hase under His Majestys orders, right? If His Majesty learns about this, not only will you be stripped of your official caps, but it might bring danger upon your nsmen too.


    Is my official cap worth a lot? You can take it if you want, Jiang Yushu replied with a smile.


    Xiao Shence was rendered speechless.


    Just then, the galloping of horse hooves echoed. Before they knew it, many soldiers had gathered on this street. These soldiers were dressed in different armor, indicating that they were from different barracks. They stationed themselves a distance away, not saying a word, but their presence itself was more than enough to pressure those in the vicinity.


    Xiao Shence was startled. He immediately turned to Fang Zhentian and asked, Old Master, is your Fang Manor really intending to rebel?!


    He thought that the Fang ns influence in the military had plummeted since Fang Zhentian had retired for many years, and Fang Chen was defeated in the Three Realms Mountain, so this sight caught him off guard.


    He actually recognized some of themanders gathered in the area. Thesemanders didnt hesitate to put down the Fang Manor, and they had also expressed their dissatisfaction regarding some of Fang Chens actions too.


    Yet, they had all gathered here today.


    Furthermore, it looked like they wouldnt hesitate to rebel alongside Fang Zhentian as long as he gave the word.


    Those wily old foxes! Xiao Shence cursed.


    He felt that there was an urgent need to reassess the bnce of power in the capital from this day onward. Just how many people were truly against the Fang n, and how many were just putting on an act?


    You people Fang Zhentianughed. A secondter, he turned stern, and he furiously roared, Back down!


    The Fifth King was taken aback. With a sigh of resignation, he left with his people.


    Jiang Yushu sped his fist and left with his people too. The nearby soldiers also quietly departed from the scene. It was almost as if the earliermotion was just an illusion.


    The obedience they disyed to Fang Zhentian chilled both Xiao Shence and Yan Beihans hearts.


    Lets go. Fang Zhentian smiled at the two of them.


    Xiao Shence and Yan Beihan nodded. They continued leading the Fang nsmen toward the imperial pce.


    This is bad Ye Qinghe and the others were horrified. It was only at this moment that they realized just how influential the Fang ns Old Master was in the capital.


    It might be possible to turn things around if the Fang ns Old Master has advanced to Ki Manifestation Tao Yu murmured contemtively.


    Meanwhile, Niu Jue anxiously paced to and fro the Fang Manors entrance.


    One of his subordinates couldnt help but advise, Chiliarch Jue, the Fang n has offended Chillwater Country this time around. Its best for you not to get too close to War God Fang.


    You know nothing at all, you brat! Niu Jue berated the subordinate as he continued nervously pacing around.


    What are you doing, Niu Jue? a familiar voice echoed.


    Niu Jue was overjoyed to hear that voice. He turned over and saw Fang Chen, Jade Fairy, and Abbess Clearlotus!

 Chapter 97: Pinnacle Earth Profound!

    Chapter 97: Pinnacle Earth Profound!


    War God Fang, you returned just in time! Niu Jue rushed forward and hurriedly exined everything that had just happened to Fang Chen.


    The nearby Valiant Defenders were stumped. They couldnt figure out whether Niu Jue was part of their Valiant Defenders or Fang Chens subordinate.


    Jade Fairy was infuriated to learn that the Fang nsmen had been taken to the imperial pce. She turned to Fang Chen and roared, Young master, that dog emperor dares


    <em>Dog emperor?!</em>


    Niu Jue widened his eyes. He hurriedly turned to the nearby Valiant Defenders and roared, Why are the lot of you still dawdling here? Get lost!


    Yes sir! The Valiant Defenders rushed away, knowing that it was best for them to feign deaf.


    Chillwater sent Ji Lengyue here, right? Fang Chen murmured.


    Niu Jue first nced at the Jade Fairy before he answered Fang Chen with a nod, Yes, the name of the envoy is Ji Lengyue. He brought a toon of Nightmare Knights with him. I heard that these Nightmare Knights are pinnacle Ki Control martial artists, and paired with their steeds, they can easily ughter Great Xias hundred thousand soldiers several times over


    Ji Lengyue isnt considered to be one of the more outstanding ones among the Ji ns younger generation, but I heard he has reached Earth Profound realm, Fang Chen muttered. The Ji n holds great influence in Chillwater, controlling half of it. Even Chillwaters emperor addresses the Ji ns patriarch as a brother. They have under their control half of Chillwaters 10,000 Nightmare Knights.


    Niu Jue gasped in horror. He couldnt have imagined that Chillwater was so strong as to have over 10,000 Nightmare Knights! This would make them at least a hundred times stronger than the current Great Xia!


    Chillwater has sixteen vassal states. Did you think that they only have Great Xia, Guhe, Yizhou, and Longdu under them? Were just the countries located east of Chillwater, Fang Chen replied with a chuckle.


    He had been collecting intelligence on nearby countries ever since he took control of the army and established the Great Xia Shadow Guards, especially when it came to their superior state, Chillwater Country.


    Part of his motivation was due to Fang Zhentian having crossed blows with Chillwaters Nightmare Knights in his younger years. His greatest internal trauma was from that encounter.


    Chillwater didnt think that its vassal states could threaten them, so it didnt bother keeping its information confidential. Thus, the Great Xia Shadow Guards were able to easily gather crucial information such as their distribution of power and the ranking of their experts.


    Thus, Fang Chen had a decent understanding of Chillwater.


    I didnt know Chillwater has that many vassal states. Its no wonder they are so powerful. These vassal states must contribute a huge sum of wealth to them every year Niu Jue remarked.


    I didnt expect Zhou Xiu to be a bastard son of the Ji n. I wonder who in the Ji n is so carefree, Fang Chen murmured.


    He turned to Jade Fairy and whispered to her. Thetter nodded and took her leave.


    Chiliarch Niu, Ill be troubling you to guard the Fang Manor on my behalf. Some opportunists might try to rob the Fang Manor while its empty. Fang Chen patted Niu Jues shoulder before bringing Abbess Clearlotus to the imperial court with him.


    Only after the two of them were gone did the Valiant Defenders fearfully return.


    Chiliarch Niu, was that woman Jade Fairy? Her words are treasonous


    None of you heard anything. Heed my words. Dont get involved in things that are none of our business. Thats the way if you wish to survive in the imperial court, understood? Niu Jue said.


    Milord, War God Fang is likely doomed this time. For you to get so close to him arent you worried that someone might pick on you for that? He has many enemies in the capital one of Niu Jues subordinates mustered his courage to ask.


    As Niu Jues subordinates, they would suffer as well if Niu Jue was picked on.


    You dont understand. Im taking a gamble here. Niu Jue took a deep breath.


    A gamble? one of the subordinates asked in confusion.


    Even if I bet on the wrong side, the worst that can happen is for me to be sidelined. What else can they do to me? But if I get it right, let me tell you, War God Fang is someone who cherishes favors. Ill be handsomely rewarded for this small gesture in the future if he survives this ordeal! Niu Jue burst intoughter. You little pipsqueaks are still too young! Learn more from me!


    Yes sir


    Niu Jues subordinates were still convinced that Niu Jue was going to lose this bet.


    Meanwhile, an unprecedented number of people were gathered in the Pce of Great Peace. The Fang n was huge, after all, not to mention that they had brought in the servants and the maids too.


    The officials stood by the sides of the imperial court with bizarre looks.


    Fang Canghai noticed Fang Zhentian and immediately bowed to him, Father, you havee out of your seclusion training?


    Mm. Fang Zhentian nodded.


    The officials stared intently at Fang Zhentian. Some of them had been in the imperial court together with him, whereas some had only heard about his affairs.


    However, it didnt matter how highly-regarded Fang Zhentian was in Great Xia today, for the person they were dealing with was from Chillwaters Ji n. With such a thought in mind, the crowd turned their attention toward Ji Lengyue.


    Ji Lengyue had brought his Nightmare Knights into the imperial court, and they stood in a neat formation behind him. All he had to do was to give the order, and the Nightmare Knights would shred everyone in the room into bits.


    The empress noticed Fang Zhentian too, but she was unable to pay respect to him in view of their positions in this official setting. The anxiety in her eyes deepened.


    Behind the empress was Noble Consort Hua, Xia Yu, and the others, and they revealed different expressions upon seeing Fang Zhentian. In particr, Noble Consort Hua looked gleeful.


    Old General Fang, it has been a long time. Did you manage to advance to Ki Manifestation? the emperor asked.


    The officials pricked up their ears out of curiosity.


    I fear mycking talent has hindered me from advancing to Ki Manifestation, Fang Zhentian sped his fist and replied.


    <em>He failed? </em>The crowd felt conflicted, not knowing whether they should rejoice or be disappointed over this.


    Its understandable. Martial cultivation is not easy, the emperor replied with a nod. He suddenly changed his tone as he continued speaking, You should know why I called you and your people here today, right?


    He turned to Ji Lengyue and introduced him, This is Chillwaters envoy, Ji Lengyue.


    Ji Lengyue? How are you rted to Ji Congyun? Fang Zhentian asked.


    You know my grandfather? Ji Lengyue narrowed his eyes.


    The crowd was taken aback. They didnt expect Ji Zhentian to be acquainted with such an important person from the Ji n.


    I have crossed blows with him many years ago. Fang Zhentian chuckled.


    Ah. Now that you mention it, my grandfather did mention he encountered a Great Xia martial artist while he was traveling the world. If Im not mistaken, you suffered a severe internal trauma from that battle. Its no wonder you failed to make a breakthrough, Ji Lengyue sneered.


    The Fang nsmen were infuriated. The officials were startled too.


    To think Fang Zhentians most severe internal trauma was inflicted by the Ji n!


    Fang Zhentian wasnt bothered by Ji Lengyues taunt. How strong is Ji Congyun now?


    He has long reached pinnacle Earth Profound. Ji Lengyue looked at Fang Zhentian in disdain. Youre nothing more than an ant in his eyes now.


    <em>Pinnacle Earth Profound? </em>


    The crowd was shocked. They couldnt imagine how powerful a pinnacle Earth Profound martial artist was.

 Chapter 98: Have You Heard of Cultivators?

    Chapter 98: Have You Heard of Cultivators?


    Pinnacle Earth Profound? Fang Zhentian nodded. A martial artist of that caliber cant be considered mortal anymore.


    Of course, Ji Lengyue sneered. The people of our Chillwater see him as a god.


    There was a pause before he continued, Im here today because your Fang ns Fang Chen killed one of our Ji ns offspring in Longdu, Zhou Xiu.


    The ignorant shouldnt be judged guilty, Fang Zhentian calmly replied. Its a conflict between two countries, and Chener couldnt have known that Zhou Xiu is a descendent of your Ji n. Both Great Xia and Longdu are Chillwaters vassal states. I hope that youll be impartial on this.


    The ignorant shouldnt be judged guilty? Ji Lengyue burst intoughter. Theres no such saying in our Chillwater. Fang Chen killed someone of our bloodline, so he ought to pay for it with his life.


    The eyes of Fang Canghai and the others turned cold. <em>They are here to im Cheners life!</em>


    Your Majesty, what do you think about this? Fang Zhentian looked at the emperor.


    I have discussed this matter with young master Ji. They are willing to spare everyone from the Fang Manor but Fang Chen has to pay with his life, the emperor replied.


    Thats the biggest leeway we can offer, Ji Lengyue coldly replied. Otherwise, I dont mind sending the rest of you off together, so that you can reunite in theherworld.


    Just then, a group of Valiant Defenders entered the Pce of Great Peace with the Longdu schrs, who had been imprisoned all this while, and a corpse that had nearly been reduced to white bones.


    The Longdu schrs had already heard about what had happened. As soon as they saw Ji Lengyue, they kneeled down and began bawling. They used Fang Chen of being a tyrant andmented Zhou Xius pitiful plight.


    Their voices echoed loudly in the Pce of Great Peace.


    Ji Lengyue eyed the corpse and cidly remarked, No matter what, hes still my cousin in terms of blood ties Someone of our Ji n has been disrespected, but I am only going after the culprit. Dont you think I am being lenient?


    Of course! Tao Mingsheng suddenly spoke up.


    The officials in his faction quickly voiced their agreement as well.


    Li Guozhu and the officials in his faction exchanged gazes, and some of them decided to support the motion to hand over Fang Chen too.


    There was nothing they could do when Chillwater was exerting pressure on them right now. Their only option was to quickly appease Ji Lengyue and resolve this matter.


    Ultimately, the Nightmare Knights standing at attention in the imperial court was simply far too intimidating for them to turn a blind eye too. All it took was one signal from Ji Lengyue, and all of them would be reduced to meat paste.


    Only the militarymanders kept their silence. They had utmost respect for Ji Zhentian, so they would rather die than to help an outsider put down his grandson.


    Milord, it wont suffice to just kill Fang Chen. He has many experts aiding his tyranny! a Longdu schr cried out.


    Ji Lengyues eyebrows shot up. Point them out.


    Him, him, and him!


    The Longdu schrs quickly pointed out Xu Ge, Tie Ma, Huang Sihai, and Li Daoye.


    Li Daoye was dumbstruck. <em>When did I be a part of Fang Chens gang?!</em>


    Behead them as well, Ji Lengyue ordered.


    Audacious! Li Daoye roared. Which bigheaded buffoon dares to behead the great Li Daoye? Youre just a boor from a lowly grade-8 state. Know your ce!


    The Pce of Great Peace fell silent.


    Everyone stared at Li Daoye. <em>Who is this brave soul? What gave him the guts to say that Chillwater Country is a lowly grade-8 state and that Ji Lengyue is a boor?</em>


    Is there something wrong with his head? someone murmured while sweating profusely.


    What did you just say? Ji Lengyue red at Li Daoye.


    The Nightmare Knights behind him drew their weapons. Overwhelming killing intent suffused the Pce of Great Peace.


    The emperor furiously red at Li Daoye.


    You must be deaf. I said that youre a boor from a grade-8 state! Li Daoye harrumphed. He pushed away the Valiant Defenders, marched up to Ji Lengyue, and shoved his finger into the other partys face, saying, I am from Infernoze Country. Grade-6 Infernoze, heard of it?! You said you want to behead me? You must really want your country destroyed!


    Grade-6 Infernoze Country?


    The crowd was astounded. None of them had heard of Infernoze Country, but the term grade-6 weighed heavily on their chests. Quite a few people began breathing faster.


    Fang Zhentian instinctively looked at Fang Cangyou with questioning eyes.


    He doesnt have a good head, but he might really be from a grade-6 state, Fang Cangyou replied with a suppressed voice.


    Fang Zhentian nodded. It looks like Chener has made quite a few formidable friends. He might not have a good head, but that should be enough to intimidate Chillwater.


    Infernoze? Ji Lengyue was rmed. <em>I have heard of that country before, but how is this possible? Why would someone from Infernoze be here? Thats Chillwaters superior states superior state!</em>


    Chillwater was a grade-8 state, which meant that grade-6 Infernoze was two grades higher than them. On top of that, he had heard that there was an immense gap between grade-7 and grade-6 states, and it was nigh impossible to bridge the gap between the two.


    It was rumored that the military might of grade-6 states was dependent not on martial artists but cultivators! Those were terrifying existences possessing the means of deities.


    Even he, a Ji nsman, had no opportunity toe into contact with such existences or power.


    Are you scared? Li Daoye was gleeful to see how quiet Ji Lengyue had be. If you know your ce, scram and never return!


    I dont know where you heard about Infernoze Country, but the galls of you to im to be from Infernoze and threaten me with it! Ji Lengyue sneered. Dice him into meat paste!


    Yes, young master! the hundred Nightmare Knights replied in unison.


    They were just about to charge at Li Daoye when their bodies stiffened up.


    Li Daoye raised his hand, revealing a searing fireball revolving on his palm. The fireball emanated terrifying heat reminiscent of hellfire.


    Ji Lengyue was taken aback. <em>Its a cultivator!</em>


    The emperor, the empress, Noble Consort Hua, Xia Yu, and the officials were shocked as well.


    See this? This is mystic art! Li Daoye sneered. Such means are beyond the reach of grade-7 states, let alone grade-8 states like yours. Youre Ji Lengyue, right? Have you ever heard about cultivators?


    Ji Lengyues face turned pale. Beads of cold sweat formed on his forehead.


    Xu Ge and the others were perplexed. They didnt think that the mere fact Li Daoye was a cultivator would intimidate Ji Lengyue so much. While they werent cultivators themselves, they were in possession of a cultivators means


    On top of that, their young master was a true cultivator many times stronger than Li Daoye!


    Fang Chen has arrived! a eunuch outside yelled.


    Two figures stepped into the Pce of Great Peace. It was Fang Chen and Abbess Clearlotus.


    The crowd turned to Fang Chen with incredulous looks.

 Chapter 99: Military Exercise

    Chapter 99: Military Exercise


    There wasplete silence as all eyes in the Pce of Great Peace followed Fang Chens figure, as he walked up to the emperor and bowed to him.


    Then, Fang Chen turned to Li Daoye and said, Dont scare others.


    Young master, that bastard wanted to behead me! Plebeians like him should take a pee and look at their reflection! What gave that bumpkin the confidence to act as if he owns the world?! Li Daoye scoffed as he stowed away his fireball. His voice was filled with disdain reminiscent of that of a superior state toward a lower state.


    Ji Lengyue understood, for that was how he viewed Great Xia and the other vassal states too. His face turned livid, and the Nightmare Knights behind him stared at Fang Chen and Li Daoye with a hint of fear.


    Ill deal with this, Fang Chen said with a smile. He stepped forward and looked at Ji Lengyue, Youre Chillwaters Ji Lengyue, right?


    Indeed, Ji Lengyue replied with a careful tone.


    I heard Zhou Xiu is a descendant of your Ji n? Fang Chen asked.


    Ji Lengyue eyed Li Daoye in doubt. There was a moment of silence before he replied, Hes merely a bastard of our Ji n.


    The crowd frowned. <em>Thats not what you said earlier!</em>


    Great Xias officials were shocked. They could tell that Ji Lengyue was intimidated by Li Daoye!


    Ah, that exins why he thinks lowly of other peoples lives. Itd be too much to expect decorum from a bastard child. Fang Chen nodded. He turned his attention toward the corpse ced in front of the imperial court. Is that Zhou Xius corpse? Who brought this filth into the Pce of Great Peace?


    A few people looked at Xiao Shence. A few people looked at the emperor. Most people looked at Ji Lengyue. But not a single person replied to Fang Chens question.


    Xiao Shence, why are you standing in a daze? Dispose that filthy thing right now! Fang Chen frowned.


    Xiao Shence shook at the mention of his name. He hesitantly nced at the emperor, and only when thetter subtly nodded did he personally pick up Zhou Xius corpse and throw it outside.


    Neither Ji Lengyue nor the Nightmare Knights behind him muttered a word about this.


    A smile slowly emerged on the empress face. She had no idea how Fang Chen had be acquainted with someone from a grade-6 state, but the tables had turned on Chillwater.


    The Fang Manor was no longer in a weaker position.


    Old Master, did someone disturb your seclusion training? Fang Chen turned to Fang Zhentian and asked.


    Xiao Shence and Yan Beihan widened their eyes.


    Before Fang Zhentian could say a word, Fang Chen turned to Old Huang and Tie Ma and angrily questioned, Who disturbed my grandfathers seclusion training? My grandfather has been ailing from the internal traumas he sustained from fighting for Great Xia, and it was only in recent days that he got some peace and could recuperate from his wounds, but someone still wants to bother him.


    Young master, its Xiao Shence and Yan Beihan, Old Huang yed along.


    p them, Fang Chen ordered.


    Yes, young master.


    Old Huang and Tie Ma nodded. One marched up to Xiao Shence, whereas the other marched up to Yan Beihan. They raised their hands and dished out p after p on their faces.


    Both Xiao Shence and Yan Beihan felt incredibly humiliated, but neither of them fought back. Instead, they stood their grounds and withstood the ps.


    All of the officials fell silent. Li Guozhu,Tao Mingsheng, and the others dared not utter a word.


    The emperor red at Fang Chen, and Fang Chen looked back at him with cid eyes.


    Nothing could be heard in the Pce of Great Peace aside from Old Huang and Tie Mas ps.


    The Valiant Defenders and Imperial Guards were infuriated, but they could only helplessly watch as theirmanders were publicly humiliated.


    Momentster, the emperor finally retracted his gaze and casually remarked, Fang Chen, they were only acting under orders. This should be enough punishment for them.


    Since His Majesty has forgiven them, Ill let this matter go, Fang Chen replied with a nod.


    Old Huang and Tie Ma stopped their pping and returned to Fang Chens side. By then, Xiao Shence and Yan Beihans faces were swollen like pig heads.


    Be it the imperial courts officials or the rear pces concubines, they were deeply shaken by what they were witnessing. Fear engulfed them when they looked at the dignified youth standing upright at the center of the room.


    There was no question Fang Chen had overstepped his boundaries, but not even the emperor was rebuking him for it. Given so, who else would dare to speak up against him?


    Would Tao Mingsheng dare? Would Li Guozhu dare?


    Of course not.


    That was the reason everyone was intimidated by Fang Chen. There was no way to curb him.


    Those from the Fang Manor felt exhrated by theeback. The younger Fang nsmen even burst intoughter, though they were quickly silenced by warning res from Fang Chens mother.


    Xia Yu was shaken too. He stared fixedly at Fang Chens every move, though he would nce at Li Daoye every now and then before falling into contemtion.


    Ji Lengyue, did you bring the Nightmare Knights here to stand up for Zhou Xiu? Fang Chen looked at Ji Lengyue as he calmly asked.


    All of the faces in the room tensed up. <em>Were getting to the real business now!</em>


    Ji Lengyue took a deep breath before a smile emerged on his lips, Our emperor has heard about the war between Longdu and Great Xia and was worried, so he sent me here to take a look. Longdu and Great Xia are our vassal states, so its only right for us to check the situation.


    Our deepest apologies for having worried Chillwater. Great Xia is faring well, though Longdu did suffer terrible losses, Fang Chen earnestly replied.


    The Longdu schrs turned awful as if someone had stuffed dog turd into their mouths.


    Longdu deserves it forunching a surprise attack on Great Xia. Ill warn them against such behavior in the future. Outsiders will see us as a joke if we keep engaging in infighting.


    Speaking of which, I heard that Greenpine has been causing trouble for Great Xia. I can drop by and give them a warning. Greenpine might not be our Chillwaters vassal state, but I believe that theyll at least settle down on our ount, Ji Lengyue said with an amicable smile.


    The officials breathed a sigh of relief.


    Ji Lengyu had decided to give in, so it was unlikely he would make things difficult for Great Xia. This was thanks to the daoist from the grade-6 state, who was now a guest in the Fang Manor


    Theres no need for that, Fang Chen replied with a chuckle. He nced at the Nightmare Knights behind Ji Lengyue and asked, Are you really just here to take a look? Arent you going to hold a military exercise?


    Military exercise?


    The crowd was startled. Now that they thought about it, Chillwater used to hold military exercises together with Great Xia and the other vassal states, though Great Xia no longer participated in those since their crushing defeat five years ago.


    Sometimes, Greenpine would participate in these exercises too.


    Yes, we intend to hold a military exercise too, Ji Lengyue was perplexed as to what Fang Chen was up to, but he decided to y along for now.


    What a coincidence. It has been a long time since Great Xia held a military exercise. Why dont we have our soldiers train together with Chillwaters Nightmare Knights? Fang Chen suggested with a smile.


    The crowd was shocked.


    Ji Lengyue eyed Li Daoye.


    A grade-6 state wont participate in a grade-8 and grade-9 states military exercise, Li Daoye rolled his eyes and snorted.


    Very well. Ji Lengyue nodded, though there was a hint of ire in his eyes.

 Chapter 100: You’re a Cultivator Too?

    Chapter 100: You¡¯re a Cultivator Too?


    <em>Cough cough!</em>


    The emperor cleared his throat. Fang Chen, our Great Xias soldiers areckingpared to the Nightmare Knights, which would render the military exercise meaningless. Why dont we


    Before he could finish his sentence, Fang Chen interjected with a smile, It has been years since our Fang Manors guards have been on the battlefield. This is a good opportunity for them to try their hand.


    <em>Fang Manors guards? He wants his manors guards to train alongside Chillwaters most elite Nightmare Knights?</em>


    Everyone was bewildered.


    The Nightmare Knights were infuriated. If not for Li Daoyes sensitive background, they would already have blown their top.


    Ji Lengyue also felt rage rushing into his head, but he clutched onto his rationality and calmly replied, Our Chillwaters Nightmare Knights have never crossed blows with your Fang Manors guards before. It would be good to broaden their horizons.


    Thats good to hear, Fang Chen replied with a smile. Ill have someone ry the news to Guhe, Yizhou, and Longdu. Lets hold a joint military exercise together.


    Ji Lengyues face darkened. He thought that this military exercise would only take a day or two, and they could retreat from Great Xia afterward. At this rate, he would have to stay in Great Xia for an extended period of time.


    Your Majesty, what do you think? Fang Chen asked.


    The emperor spent a moment in thought before nodding. Thats fine by me.


    Its decided then. Fang Chen smiled. He sped his fist and bade his farewell, Your Majesty, well take our leave first.


    With that, the Fang n turned around and left the imperial court.


    Ji Lengyue dared not to stop them. He stared fixedly at Li Daoye, as he considered his next step.


    Outside the Fang n, Niu Jue was overjoyed when he saw Fang Chen and the others returning safe and sound. He quickly jogged over to wee him.


    His subordinates, on the other hand, were stunned.


    <em>Even if Chillwaters envoy was gracious enough to spare the Fang Manor, there should have been no reason he would let Fang Chen, Viscount Zhou Xius murderer, return just like that. Could Chiliarch Niu have made the right bet here?</em>


    Fang Chen patted Niu Jues shoulder and chatted with him before dismissing them. Then, he led his nsmen into the manor and toward the main hall.


    Lad, how confident are you? Fang Zhentian naturally made his way toward the main seat before posing this question to Fang Chen. He nced at Li Daoye and remarked, His means are formidable, but hell only take down a handful of Nightmare Knights at most.


    Li Daoye was indignant, but before he could say a word, Fang Chen replied with a smile, Grandfather, I dont n on allowing any of the Nightmare Knights they brought here to leave Great Xia alive.


    Fang Canghai and Fang Cangyou were hesitant to hear that. <em>Should we be offending our superior state when we havent even settled with Greenpine yet? Its doubtful whether Great Xia can withstand Chillwaters rage. </em>


    Since you said so, Ill trust that you have thought things through. But why resort to this? Theres the option to lie low and quietly grow. Once we be a grade-8 state, we will be free from Chillwaters control. You do understand that this drastic move will spur Chillwater into action?


    Fang Zhentian narrowed his eyes before adding, I doubt its a coincidence I met Ji Congyun back then. I suspect they were wary I might reach Ki Manifestation or even Earth Profound realm, so they decided to cut my path short.


    Father, is that true?! Fang Canghai and Fang Cangyou were enraged.


    Fang Zhixue also bared her teeth in anger.


    Its a guess, but thats likely the case. Think about it. I was patrolling Great Xias outskirts to eliminate Guhe and Greenpines martial artists, who were disguised as bandits. What are the odds I would encounter Ji Congyun like that? Fang Zhentian asked.


    The Fang nsmen clenched their fists. They hadnt expected Chillwater to be so despicable as to resort to such lowly methods to ensure Great Xia remained firmly under their control.


    Old Master, our greatest threat right now is neither Greenpine nor Chillwater. Before dealing with the main threat, we ought to clear other obstacles so that we can focus our attention on it. Fang Chen sighed before turning to Li Daoye. Tell them about the Blood Spirit Cult.


    Are you serious? Li Daoye was startled. But theres no point telling mere mortals


    Its only a matter of time before they learn about it, Fang Chen replied.


    All right. Li Daoye took a moment to gather his thoughts before he began exining, The Blood Spirit Cult is a terrifying sect with significant influence spanning across major empires. Their cultivators are powerful, and they often use countries as pill cauldrons to concoct their Blood Spirit Divine Pill


    He exined the origin of the Blood Spirit Cult, their way of doing things, and everything they had done in Great Xia thus far.


    Tie Ma and the others did know bits and pieces about the Blood Spirit Cult, but it was only now that they realized how formidable their enemy was


    Momentster, Li Daoye took a sip of tea. Im done.


    The Fang n descended into silence.


    Chener Youre saying that someone is using our people to concoct pills? Fang Canghai slowly asked in incredulity.


    Thats right. Fang Chen nodded. They had a hand in the Three Realms Mountain too.


    Damn it! They are living and breathing humans, yet the Blood Spirit Cult are using them to concoct pills? How can there be someone so vile in the world?! Fang Canghai roared in anger.


    If what he said is true, we are mere specks of dust to the Blood Spirit n. Do we really have the power to defy them? Fang Cangyou murmured with a frown.


    Cultivators Fang Zhentian spoke up. I have known about the existence of cultivators from a young age, and I was fortunate to meet one too. Their means are transcendental. However, they cant be found in grade-9, grade-8, or even grade-7 states. There is not a single cultivator to be found in Chillwater. Their heritage is too precious, too rare


    At this point, Fang Zhentian turned to Fang Chen and asked, Youre a cultivator too?


    The crowd was taken aback.


    <em>Could it be </em>


    Fang Chen nodded with a smile. Old Master, I never regained my martial cultivation. My ki sea is shattered beyond repair. It was not too long ago that I found an alternative path to walk on.


    Everyone was bbergasted. To think that Fang Chen was a cultivator! It immediately made sense to them why Li Daoye was residing in the Fang Manor too.


    Are you confident of dealing with the Blood Spirit Cult? Fang Zhentian asked.


    Those in the room were no longer concerned about Greenpine or Chillwater anymore. Rather, the Blood Spirit Cult was their main focus now!


    Fang Chen shook his head. Our chances are slim, but we have to give it a try.


    Indeed. We have to give it a try even if its an impossible endeavor. Fang Zhentian nodded.


    Fang Canghai and the others also expressed their determination to sh with the Blood Spirit n even if the odds were severely stacked against them.


    Li Daoye was dazed. <em>These mortals know how powerful the Blood Spirit Cult is, but they still want to defy them?</em>


    Actually now that Fang Chen is a cultivator, you can develop into a cultivator n, leave Great Xia, and take residence in a grade-6 state. They would be more than happy to ept you You dont have to go all the way with the Blood Spirit Cult Li Daoye suggested.


    Fang Chen exchanged looks with the Fang nsmen, and all of them chuckled. Even Abbess Clearlotus smiled as well.


    Li Daoye was the only confused one in the room. <em>What in the world are theyughing about?</em>

 Chapter 101: Definition of Immortality

    Chapter 101: Definition of Immortality


    Fang Chen poured out some of the spirit spring water in his storage ring for Fang Canghai and the others to drink. All of them felt revitalized, so much so that their bodies felt a little lighter.


    As he had stored this spirit spring water into his storage ring straight from the source, there was no loss in its spirit ki at all.


    Then, Fang Chen handed the Purple Aura Forms manual to Fang Zhentian, so that thetter could examine and try to practice it.


    Fang Zhentian spent a few moments studying the manual before calling Fang Canghai and the others over so that they could try practicing it together.


    The sharp-eyed Li Daoye saw the words Purple Aura Form on the manual cover and eximed in astonishment, Is that the Purple Aura Form from Infernoze Countrys South Heaven Sect?


    You know about them? Fang Chen asked.


    Of course! South Heaven Sect is famous in Infernoze! Even my Eight Trigrams Sect pales inparison to them. Li Daoye looked at Fang Chen in conflict. You do know that theylle after you for distributing their Purple Form Aura without permission?


    I cant care that much given Great Xias current plight, Fang Chen replied. As long as you keep mum, and I dont say a word, no one will know a thing.


    Its not that I want to criticize you, young master Fang, but we cultivators only have one goal, and thats to further our cultivation. For that, we wouldnt hesitate to monopolize resources or fleece others out of their wealth. To put it bluntly, we are selfish people.


    Yet, you seek to oppose the Blood Spirit Cult for a bunch of mortals. The slightest misstep might spell the end of your immortal path. Is it worth it? It was a great stroke of fate for you to have be a cultivator despite being born in a grade-9 state; you shouldnt let it go to waste, Li Daoye earnestly advised.


    Young master seeks to be a secr immortal, Abbess Clearlotus said. You wont understand.


    Secr immortal? Immortals are beings who transcend the secrity of the mortal world. Theres no such thing as a secr immortal, Li Daoye replied with a frown.


    Who do you think the first immortal is? Fang Chen suddenly asked.


    First immortal? Li Daoye racked his brain, only to eventually reply with a frustrated shrug, How am I to know who the first immortal is?!


    Indeed. There were no immortals when the world was first created. It was the first person who achieved immortality that defined an immortal, and their values have been passed down since. Since immortals are a defined concept, why cant I define it my way? Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    Y-you Li Daoye was horrified. How can you be so brazen to define immortals by your own terms! Youre going against the natural way of the world!


    Am I? I havent been struck by lightning yet, Fang Chen replied with a chuckle.


    Its just a matter of time! Li Daoye harrumphed.


    Regardless, youre stuck on the same boat as me. The first thing that elder of yours will do upon returning to the Eight Trigrams Sect is to expel you, though that might be for the best since I dont think youd want to drag down your sect, Fang Chen said with an enigmatic smile. Keep an eye on the Old Master and the others. Help them if they stumble in their cultivation.


    With that, Fang Chen stood up and left.


    He was nning to make more Purple Lightning Talismans with the spirit materials Li Daoye had bought from Dragonback Lane to raise his cultivation. Hopefully, he could manifest his fifth immortal vein soon.


    I must be out of mind Li Daoye shook his head as he made his way toward Fang Zhentian. A mere Ki Refinement cultivator dares to oppose the Blood Spirit Cult and redefine the concept of immortality. Lunatic! Hes an utter lunatic! I might lose my mind if I continue staying with him. This wont do I have to draw a line between us. I want to be a carefree daoist!


    In his room, Fang Chen infused his spirit ki into the talisman paper through smooth and stable brush strokes. Through the intricate patterns he drew, the spirit ki harmonized to form a Purple Lightning Talisman.


    Abbess Clearlotus was in the room too. With her chin resting on her hands, she stared fixedly at Fang Chen in awe.


    Having drawn Strength Talismans and Flitting Talismans, she knew that more potent talismans were demanding on ones capacity and control of spirit ki. It wasmon for cultivators to suffer from trembling hands, ki instability, and all kinds of side effects that resulted in the failure of their talisman drawing.


    Yet, Fang Chens spirit ki and brush strokes were more stable than her masters and elders.


    Despite the extreme difficulty in drawing the Purple Lightning Talisman, he was able toplete it in a single breath. On top of that, his spirit ki flowed nonstop as if he had a boundless spring of energy in him.


    <em>He can draw Purple Lightning Talismans with ease despite being blind. Using my masters words, he is born to be an immortal cultivator</em> Abbess Clearlotus thought.


    Abbess Clearlotus, I heard both your sect and Li Daoyes sect are located in Infernoze Country? Fang Chen asked as he prepared to draw the next Purple Lightning Talisman.


    Thats right. My Moon Monastery is just a mountain away from Li Daoyes Eight Trigrams Sect, Abbess Clearlotus replied with a nod. The elders of our sects often fight with one another. My master told me to be wary of the Eight Trigrams Sects cultivators as they are cunning people.


    I cant deny that. Fang Chen chuckled in agreement. Is the South Heaven Sect close to your Moon Monastery? How are the cultivator sects in Infernoze like?


    The South Heaven Sect is a powerful sect in Infernozes southern region. Together with the northern regions Beast Spirit Valley, they are Infernozes Two Behemoths. The two sects are known to be backed by pinnacle Foundation Establishment elders.


    My Moon Monastery and Li Daoyes Eight Trigrams Sect can only be considered as mid-tier in Infernoze. Most cultivator sects only have Ki Refinement cultivators, Abbess Clearlotus said.


    Pinnacle Foundation Establishment Fang Chen murmured.


    <em>There really is a huge gap between grade-6 states and grade-7 states. Grade-7 states only have Heaven Profound martial artists. </em>


    <em>Daoist Cloudcrane once said that the Heaven Profound martial artists are onlyparable to pinnacle Ki Refinement, with thetter being stronger in a practical fight. </em>


    Young master, the requirement to be a grade-6 state is to have four Foundation Establishment cultivators. Infernoze Country is considered strong among grade-6 states, Abbess Clearlotus added.


    Four Foundation Establishment cultivators? Im curious to know how these requirements came about, Fang Chen remarked with a smile.


    Abbess Clearlotus was stumped by that question. She racked her head, but she was unable to figure out an answer. Well Maybe its Or that it could be


    Someone must havee up with it, and it slowly became recognized as an official standard over time, Fang Chen suggested.


    Right, right! That must be it! Abbess Clearlotus frantically nodded like a little chick.


    Does your Infernoze Country worship any deity? Fang Chen suddenly asked.


    Great Xia worshiped the Enlightenment Heaven Supreme, a three-armed, monkey-faced, human-bodied deity. Most temples in the country contained its golden statue.


    What perplexed Fang Chen was that Guhe, Longdu, Yizhou, Greenpine, and even Chillwater worshiped amon god, but it wasnt the same as Great Xias Enlightenment Heaven Supreme. He had always wondered how this came to be.


    We do. Our Infernoze worships the methief Immortal. Abbess Clearlotus nodded.

 Chapter 102: The True Immortal Cultivator Prodigy

    Chapter 102: The True Immortal Cultivator Prodigy


    The methief Immortal? Are there other countries who worship the same deity as you? Fang Chen asked.


    Abbess Clearlotus nodded. There are quite a few of them.


    It could be either these deities were beings who had once existed and had left behind legends for others to revere them by, or that those countries used to be one whole and worshiped the same deity but had fractured over time.


    Lets take a rest today. Tomorrow, Ill have Tie Ma apany you to Infernoze. How long would a to and fro trip take? Fang Chen asked.


    Two to three months should suffice. I know some shortcuts, Abbess Clearlotus replied.


    Fang Chen pondered for a moment before putting down his brush and taking out a jade seal from his storage ring. One of the South Heaven Sects cultivators had given him this jade seal before dying. He was thinking of having Abbess Clearlotus deliver the seal, though he would have to first inspect its content.


    He infused his spirit ki into the jade seal, but there was a thin soul energy barrier that prevented one from viewing its content. Of course, such a thinyer of soul energy was nowhere enough to hinder his powerful soul though.


    He pierced through the barrier with ease, and the message inscribed into the jade seal flowed into his mind.


    <em>[Senior, we pursued Zhou Yizeng to a grade-9 state called Great Xia and found that hes a Blood Spirit Cultist. We arent a match for him and are going to die in his hands, but please dont avenge us. There is a cultivator here who possesses a twelve daosoul artifact. Youll surely be able to emerge as the champion in our South Heaven Sects tournament if you obtain it. Please make a move soon lest this treasure falls into the hands of another.]</em>


    Fang Chens face darkened.


    That fellow told the South Heaven Sect not to avenge him because of how powerful the Blood Spirit Cult was, but he told his senior toe to Great Xia to take his treasure. As the one who killed Zhou Yizeng, Fang Chen could be considered his benefactor, but he repaid his favor with ingratitude.


    <em>For that, we wouldnt hesitate to monopolize resources or fleece others out of their wealth. To put it bluntly, we are selfish people</em>


    Fang Chen was reminded of Li Daoyes words. He shook his head in self-mockery before crushing the jade seal to dust. <em>The world of cultivation follows thew of the jungle. Itd be naive to expect morals from others. I have to keep this in mind. </em>


    Abbess Clearlotus was curious about the jade seal, but she chose not to probe. Fang Chen turned his attention back to drawing talismans, and she focused her eyes on him too.


    <em>His graceful brush strokes are truly pleasant to the eye. </em>


    The following morning, there was a new stack of Purple Lightning Talismans ced in front of Fang Chen.


    Spirit ki from the surroundings gushed into Fang Chens body, and his fifth immortal vein slowly manifested. Just like that, his spirit ki grew several fold.


    Surprised, Abbess Clearlotus stood up and said, Congrattions, young master.


    A cultivator making a breakthrough was something worth celebrating.


    Little Abbess, do you have a rough idea how the Purple Lightning Talisman is made now? Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    A bit. Ah! Young master, I didnt mean to memorize it Abbess Clearlotus btedly remembered that such means were confidential to cultivators, and her eyes swam around in a panic.


    Dont worry. I ought to present something of value to convince your master to make a move, Fang Chen remarked with a chuckle.


    He was previously unsure whether Abbess Clearlotus sect would be willing to deal with the Blood Spirit Cult for them, but from his encounter with the South Heaven Sect, he realized that the world of cultivation was highly pragmatic.


    If he wanted a favor from someone, he would have to offer something in return.


    Little Abbess, I have fifty mid-grade Purple Lightning Talismans here. Take them with you, and dont hesitate to use them if you find yourself in danger. When you return to your sect, tell your master and elders that Ill teach them how to draw the Purple Lightning Talisman in exchange for them dealing with the Blood Spirit Cult for us, Fang Chen said.


    Abbess Clearlotus was stunned. Young master, youre saying that


    Ill teach you how to draw the Purple Lightning Talismans. Just looking at the drawing process wont be enough. Youll need guidance as to where to exert more force and where to go lighter, Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    Talisman heritage is invaluable. Young master, are you certain about it? Abbess Clearlotus asked with a suppressed voice.


    The Purple Lightning Talisman was not an ordinary talisman. A pinnacle Purple Lightning Talisman wielded the prowess of an all-out attack from a pinnacle Ki Refinement cultivator. Someone who was capable of drawing the Purple Lightning Talisman would be celebrated no matter where they went.


    The Moon Monastery would be much stronger if they learned the art of drawing Purple Lightning Talismans.


    Abbess Clearlotus was still worried that her master might be reluctant to help them, but with such a reward on the line, her master should be willing to make a move.


    I have thought things through. The art of drawing Purple Lightning Talismans is from my lineage. Ill head to my sect and beg them for forgiveness in the future. You dont have to worry about trouble befalling your Moon Monastery, Fang Chen said. However, Ill only impart the skill to you, and you can only pass it down to your disciple. Thats my condition.


    Yes, young master. Abbes Clearlotus nodded.


    Fang Chen called Tie Ma over and instructed him to escort Abbess Clearlotus to Infernoze. Tie Ma was hesitant upon hearing the order.


    Dont worry, Old Huang and the others are around, Fang Chen consoled him with a smile.


    Young master, Ill return as soon as possible. Tie Ma sped his fist.


    Little Abbess might be a cultivator, but shecks worldly experience. Take good care of her, Fang Chen instructed.


    Tie Ma grimly nodded before sneaking out of the Fang Manor with Abbess Clearlotus.


    Shortly after the two of them left, Xu Ge rushed over in a hurry and reported, Young master, Daoye insists that I call you over.


    Fang Chen rushed to the courtyard.


    When he arrived, he saw Fang Zhentian meditating on the ground with a faint purple light shrouding his face. A huge amount of spirit ki had gathered around him, and it was steadily flowing into his body.


    Fang Cangtian, Fang Cangyou, Fang Chens mother, Fang Zhixue, and the others stared at Fang Zhentian in astonishment. They couldnt see or sense spirit ki, but they could see the faint purple light shrouding Fang Zhentians face.


    Clearly, something was going on!


    Young master, you arrived on time! This is incredible! Forging his immortal vein in a single day; your Old Master is a true cultivator prodigy! Li Daoye eximed in admiration. He grabbed Fang Chens sleeve and pulled it. Wont you allow me to take a trip back to the Eight Trigrams Sect? I want to call my father over to take your Old Master in as his disciple!


    Then what am I supposed to call you? Fang Chen asked.


    Your grandfather is my Junior Brother, so you ought to call me your Great Senior Uncle Li Daoye didnt finish his sentence as he noticed the contempt in Fang Chens eyes.


    Fang Chen ignored Li Daoye and instead quietly assessed Fang Zhentian.


    <em>My grandfather forged his immortal vein in a single day, just like me. However, I have my strong soul serving as a foundation, and I only inherited that after seeing that fairy in the Three Realms Mountain. My grandfather had no such fortuitous encounter, meaning that hes a true prodigy!</em>

 Chapter 103: Young Master, You’re Too Generous

    Chapter 103: Young Master, You¡¯re Too Generous


    How long did it take you to forge your first immortal vein? Fang Chen suddenly asked.


    Li Daoye btedly realized that Fang Chen was posing the question to him, and he hesitantly replied with a hushed voice, Around a year? I dont clearly remember anymore.


    <em>A year? </em>Fang Chen was astonished.


    Li Daoye was not a wandering cultivator; his father was the leader of the Eight Trigrams Sect. With such a strong family backing, he should have eaten his fair share of spirit treasures from a young age. Yet, it took him a year to forge his first immortal vein.


    Young master Fang, I suspect theres something special about your Fang n, Li Daoye said.


    What makes you say that? Fang Chen replied.


    You have reached a high level of cultivation despite your young age, so much so that you would have been considered a top-notch prodigy in Infernoze. Your Old Master is even more ridiculous, forging his immortal vein in a day. This is his first contact with cultivation methods, but he achieved such a feat through his own grasp of the Purple Aura Form. I dont think your Fang n can possibly be an ordinary n, Li Daoye said.


    I bet your Fang n used to be a major cultivator n, just that you somehow ended up in this decrepit ce.


    That might be so, but its no longer important. Too much time has passed for us to trace our roots, Fang Chen remarked with a smile. He didnt think much about Li Daoyes words.


    Fang Canghai and the others gathered around.


    Chener, did your grandfather seed? Fang Canghai asked with a suppressed voice.


    Thats right. Grandfather has manifested his first immortal vein, which means that he has taken his first step into immortal cultivation. All things aside, it should extend his lifespan, Fang Chen replied with a nod.


    The Fang n was overjoyed. This was great news to them.


    Big brother, do weck talent in cultivation? Fang Zhixue was disappointed. Me, father, mother, Second Uncle, and the others had cultivated together with grandfather, but theres no result despite a day having passed.


    Its rare for one to forge their immortal vein in a single day, Fang Chen exined. Li Daoye is a disciple of Infernozes Eight Trigrams Sect, and he ate lots of spirit treasures in his younger years. Even so, it took him a year to forge his first immortal vein.


    Fang Canghai and Fang Cangyou nodded. <em>If its that easy to be a cultivator, no one will take the hard path and train as a martial artist instead. </em>


    Fang Chens mother wasnt as interested in this matter. She dotingly rubbed Fang Zhixues head and said, Dont worry, your big brother and your grandfather are cultivators. Im sure youll be able to be a cultivator too.


    Mm! Fang Zhixue nodded with renewed fighting will.


    Fang Zhentians spirit ki slowly calmed down. When he opened his eyes once more, the crowd could have sworn that they saw a gleam shing across his eyes.


    Interesting. So this is spirit ki. It is stronger than the inner ki of martial artists, and it seems to have special effects. I can feel the spirit ki nourishing my body, healing my internal traumas I should be able to make a full recovery soon, Fang Zhentian remarked with a smile.


    Grandfather, is there anything confusing about the Purple Aura Form? Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    Not at all. The manual is clear, Fang Zhentian replied.


    The crowd was impressed. <em>The Old Master must have superhuman intelligence. Hes able to easily grasp even immortal cultivation methods. </em>


    Go ahead and do what you need to. Ill guide the others on their cultivation in the meantime, Fang Zhentian told Fang Chen.


    Father, I have to guard the eastern city gates, so Im afraid Fang Canghai was taken aback.


    Is that more important than cultivation? The benefits of bing a cultivator are greater than you can imagine. Send someone over to the imperial pce to inform the emperor that youre quitting your post, Fang Zhentian cidly ordered.


    <em>The Old Master is telling our patriarch to quit his post?</em>


    The crowd was startled.


    Fang Chens mother, on the other hand, was overjoyed. She turned to Fang Canghai and said, I think you should listen to fathers words.


    Father, grandfather is right. Theres no point remaining as an official. Its no longer important to our Fang n or Great Xia as a whole, Fang Chen replied.


    Fang Canghai wasnt the type to be obsessed with power either. He pondered upon those words before replying, Ill tender my resignation today.


    I dont think Im needed here anymore, so Ill go find Little Abbess for a chat. Li Daoye wanted to take this opportunity to slip away.


    Abbess Clearlotus has returned to Infernoze, Fang Chen replied.


    What?! Li Daoye couldnt believe his ears. She returned to Infernoze? Didnt she promise to stay here with you to deal with the Blood Spirit Cult?


    Thats the reason shes making a trip back. I have eliminated the Blood Spirit Cultists stationed in Great Xia. Shes worried that a Foundation Establishment cultivator mighte to check, so shes returning to request help from her master, Fang Chen replied.


    Li Daoye widened his eyes in realization, only to panic right after. Young master, how can you be so foolish? You should have let me go with her. With that brain of hers, even cunning mortals can take advantage of her!


    Tie Ma is with her. Shell be fine, Fang Chen replied.


    Tie Ma? Li Daoye thought of Tie Mas permanently stoic face and breathed a sigh of relief. That fellow is a sharp-witted one. She should be fine with him around.


    I gave her a couple of Purple Lightning Talismans. She should be able to easily deal with ordinary cultivators, Fang Chen added.


    Ah! About that, young master, I spent quite a few ki stones purchasing your spirit materials. Shouldnt you bestow upon me some Purple Lightning Talismans so that I can at least protect myself? Li Daoye asked with a fawning smile.


    Fang Chen chuckled. He was nning to give some Purple Lightning Talismans to Li Daoye as well, so he casually took out a stack of fifty and passed it to him.


    Li Daoye was stupefied. His hands were shaking as he took the stack of fifty, and he stared at Fang Chen with an expression that said <em>Are you sure about this?</em>.


    A low-grade Purple Lightning Talisman could fetch 5 to 6 low-grade ki stones, and Fang Chen was giving him mid-grade Purple Lightning Talismans. These talismans were powerful aces that could save ones life!


    Most Ki Refinement cultivators would feel assured with a couple of Purple Lightning Talismans in their pocket.


    You deserve it. Fang Chen smiled.


    Li Daoye was moved. He suddenly thought that it wasnt that bad of an idea to follow this lunatic. Not even the Eight Trigrams Sect was so generous as to give out so many Purple Lightning Talismans at once!


    Moved, he said, Young master, youre truly generous.


    Fang Chen chuckled. Did you see anyone selling Bone Tempering Pills at Dragonback Lane?


    Bone Tempering Pills? I dont think I saw that. Its quite rare to see such stuff, since no cultivator will specially concoct such pills. Li Daoye shook his head.


    Im d I bought all the Bone Tempering Pills then, Fang Chen murmured.


    He bade Fang Canghai and the others farewell before leaving with Li Daoye and Xu Ge.


    He was going to pick out a group of Fang Manors guards to participate in the uing military exercise with Chillwater and the other countries.

 Chapter 104: They Are All Veterans!

    Chapter 104: They Are All Veterans!


    The Fang Manor had a total of sixty guards. They were divided into two groups, the day shift and the night shift. Their ages ranged from the thirties to the fifties, making them, on average, older than most soldiers, but it would be foolish to make light of them.


    Most of them were veteran soldiers who had fought alongside the Fang n on many battlefields. They practiced the Fang ns Profound Heaven Form, and on average, their martial cultivation was at early Ki Explosion.


    All of them, be it from the day shift or the night shift, stood at attention with their chests puffed out. Their eyes were filled with fighting spirit.


    Do you know what the oue will be if you fight the Nightmare Knights? Fang Chen asked.


    One of the older guards calmly replied, The worst that can happen to us is death, but worry not, young master. Well drag some of them down with us even at the cost of our lives.


    Heh! We should have died on the battlefield long ago. Itll be worth it if we can bring down some of the Nightmare Knights with us!


    The arrogant Chillwater wants to manipte our young master; how can we let them do as they please? We need to teach them a lesson!


    The guards spoke with a light-hearted tone, as if they were up against a couple of hoodlums instead of Chillwaters Nightmare Knights.


    They are all iron-willed veterans! Li Daoye murmured. <em>These people will be a dangerous bunch to offend if they be cultivators. Its rare to see cultivators with such a temperament.</em>


    I dont n on letting you die yet. Fang Chen chuckled. He turned to Xu Ge and said, Distribute the Protection Talismans, Flitting Talismans, Strength Talismans, and Purple Lightning Talismans.


    Yes, young master. Xu Ge took out stack after stack of talismans and handed each of the guards ten of each talismans.


    Li Daoyes eyes nearly popped out of their sockets. He stared at those talismans in disbelief before turning to Fang Chen. Young master Fang, do you know how much these talismans are worth in the world of cultivation?


    They are only talismans if used. Otherwise, they are just a bunch of scrap paper, Fang Chen calmly replied.


    Scrap paper! Li Daoyes heart clenched up. These arent scrap papers!. Do you know how much ki stones they are worth?! You dont need to pay such a heavy price just to deal with a grade-8 state! Why dont I suppress them in Infernozes name? In return, you can just give me half of the talismans here


    Fang Chen ignored his offer and instead asked, How strong do you think these sixty veterans would be, if they used the Protection Talismans, Flitting Talismans, and Strength Talismans, while having the Purple Lightning Talismans for emergencies?


    Li Daoye thought hard before replying, An eighth stage Ki Refinement cultivator will bepletely suppressed. He wont be able withstand the onught of sixty Purple Lightning Talismans, unless he has a protection artifact.


    If the opponent is at ninth stage Ki Refinement, you would be able to push him back while the talismans are still active, but the tables will be turned as soon as the effects of the talismans run out.


    That bunch of Nightmare Knights is just a toon of pinnacle Ki Control martial artists. Even theirbined prowess is no more than a fifth stage Ki Refinement cultivator


    At this point, Li Daoye suddenly looked at the guards in this courtyard with a serious expression. <em>These mortals before me, armed with talismans, have the means to take down an eighth rank Ki Refinement cultivator, and even fight off a ninth stage Ki Refinement cultivator for a while!</em>


    He hadnt even considered this possibility as he didnt think anyone would be so wasteful as to provide so many talismans to mere mortals.


    In any case, this meant that Fang Chens army could subdue Ki Refinement cultivators. If he continued drawing more talismans and expanded his army


    <em>The heck! He might just be able to take down a twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator with just mere talismans!!!</em>


    Li Daoye gasped. This made him see Fang Chen in a different light.


    He was still unaware of the existence of the Great Xia Shadow Guards. If those Shadow Guards worked with Fang Chen, they could confront a twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator head on!


    The Purple Lightning Talismans were basically a means of bombardment. A powerful cultivator might survive 30 lightning bolts, but what about 50? What about 100?


    It wouldnt be easy to survive the umted damage. Even Fang Chen had no confidence that he could survive such a bombardment.


    Young master, these are The guards stared at the talismans with doubtful eyes.


    You have met this person in the Pce of Great Peace. Fang Chen gestured to Li Daoye. These talismans contain a cultivators powers. The Flitting Talisman makes you as light as a swallow. The Protection Talisman makes you invulnerable to swords and spears. The Strength Talisman makes you as strong as an ox. As for the Purple Lightning Talismans thats your main means of dealing with the Nightmare Knights.


    I have given you ten of each talismans, and I expect you to take down at least two Nightmare Knights with your ten Purple Lightning Talismans. Dont miss your aim.


    <em>The power of a cultivator!</em>


    The guards felt a huge boost in morale upon hearing those words. <em>No wonder the young master wanted us to sh with the Nightmare Knights. It turns out that he has prepared a hand!</em>


    Well practice using the talismans in the next few days, lest youre unustomed to it, Xu Ge said.


    Practice? Thats such a huge waste of talismans Li Daoyes heart clenched up once more. <em>These wastrels!</em>


    You have to give up something to receive something. Fang Chen patted Li Daoyes shoulders. Id like to study the Fireball Art and Ice Arrow Art. Youll be my sparring partner. Show me what other means the Eight Trigrams Sect have other than omen reading.


    For the next few days, the sparring fields werepletely closed off.


    The Fang Manors servants and maids would asionally hear rumbles. Fang Cangyou had once dropped by to take a peek out of curiosity, only to walk away with a perplexed frown.


    The massive sparring field was charred, as if it had been struck by lightning for days on end.


    The Fang Manors guards had gained a better idea of how to use the talismans.


    Fang Chen had also gotten adept at the Fireball Spell and Ice Arrow Spell too, such that he could instantaneously release them with just a thought.


    Young master Fang, just how much spirit ki do you have? Are you secretly a twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator?! Li Daoye eximed as he touched his charred brows. I refuse to be your sparring partner anymore. All of my hair will be burned off at this rate!


    He was shocked.


    The Fireball Art might be a fundamental skill in the world of cultivation, but it consumed a significant amount of spirit ki for Ki Refinement cultivators. Otherwise, there wouldnt have been such a huge market for talismans.


    Even a twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator cant continuously unleash fireballs. Their spirit ki would run out by the hundredth one! Li Daoyeined.


    He had seen Fang Chen simultaneously manifesting a fireball in his left hand and an ice arrow in his right hand, and consecutively releasing them dozens of times. Yet, he showed no signs of fatigue as if his spirit ki couldnt run out.


    Fang Chen chuckled. He told Li Daoye to head back and rest. After a few days of practice, he had grasped the crux of the two mystic arts.


    He had expended his spirit ki many times over the past few days, so his cultivation had been steadily growing. He wasnt far from manifesting his sixth immortal vein.

 Chapter 105: The Ji Clan’s Guardian

    Chapter 105: The Ji n¡¯s Guardian


    I have been hearing thunderous rumbles from the Fang n in the past few days.


    War God Fang must have been practicing his Purple Lightning Palm.


    I heard the Fang Manor is going to participate in a military exercise with Chillwater. I wonder how thatll turn out.


    What do you expect? Military exercise is just a nice way of phrasing it. Chillwater envoy is using this as an excuse to suppress War God Fang and exact vengeance for Zhou Xiu!


    In recent days, the civilians would gossip each time they passed by the Fang Manor. They were still unaware of what had transpired in the imperial court.


    However, those in the upper echelons had been moving their hidden pieces, hoping to gather some useful information from the Fang Manor.


    In one of the guest pces, Ji Lengyue was seated in a chair as he supervised the Nightmare Knights training. They dared not to get careless even though their opponent was Great Xia, a mere grade-9 state.


    They could see the shadows of grade-6 Infernoze Country behind their opponent, and that filled their hearts with unease.


    Young master, we havepiled everything Fang Chen has done in the capital in recent days. A Nightmare Knight walked up to Ji Lengyue and handed him a booklet.


    Ji Lengyue took the booklet and flipped through it. A frown formed on his face. He killed a Ki Control martial artist from Greenpines Wolf Army in the imperial pce. That was the day he showed his fangs again after lying low for five years.


    After that, he killed Zhou Xiu, followed by Longdus Marquess Xianyu. While Great Xia was fighting off Longdus cavalrymen, mysterious experts suddenly appeared out of nowhere and worked together with Great Xia to push them back.


    These appear to be Fang Chens doing, but they are likely orchestrated by that Li Daoye. Only he has the capability to pull that off. He is a cultivator from a grade-6 state, after all.


    The Nightmare Knight asked with a suppressed voice, Young master, cultivators have always viewed mortals as mere ants. Even martial artists wouldnt earn any respect from them. I dont understand why hes helping Fang Chen and the Fang Manor.


    I dont know the reason behind that yet. Ji Lengyue shook his head. I thought that Id be able to avenge Zhou Xiu and suppress the Great Xia, but I didnt expect to find a cultivator here.


    But theres nothing to worry about. I have already sent word back home. Chillwater might not have an official cultivator, but our Ji n does have a cultivator whom we worship. Once my grandfather receives the news, hell implore the cultivator to head here. Its just that well likely have to pay a heavy price for it.


    The Nightmare Knights eyes lit up. As someone who had served the Ji n for many years, he had once apanied the Ji ns Old Master to pay a visit to the cultivator. That cultivator did possess exceptional means.


    If the cultivator was willing to make a move on their behalf, they wouldnt have to fear Infernozes cultivator.


    Fang Chens soul quietly eavesdropped on their conversation from the sky. Many of his doubts unraveled when he learned that the Ji n was worshiping a cultivator.


    That cultivator must have helped the Ji n to find the Nightmare Steed. Its no wonder the Ji n became so powerful that they could stand on equal ground with Chillwaters imperial family and control half the country, Fang Chen murmured with a smile.


    This also suggested that other grade-8 and grade-8 states could be worshiping cultivators too, though these cultivators were likely at the bottom of the barrel in the world of cultivation.


    Cultivators needed resources to raise their cultivation, but the lower grade states were likely stuck in their grades because theycked these resources.


    For instance, Fang Chen hadnt found any ki stone of cultivation resource in Great Xia other than that spirit spring. Given so, it wouldnt be able to provide for a cultivator even if it wanted to. Which cultivator would be so carefree to protect Great Xia when it had nothing to offer them?


    Chillwater could have been in a better position, which was why the Ji n could worship a cultivator, though Ji Lengyues words suggested that the Ji n was paying a steep price for it.


    But the stronger cultivators wouldnt stay at a ce like this even if they were worshiped. Only those who dont have the ability to survive in the stronger states would choose to remain here But theres a chance that cultivator is a Blood Spirit Cultist. The Foundation Establishment cultivator behind Zhou Yizeng might just be hiding in Chillwater.


    It was just a blind guess, but to be safe, Fang Chen thought that there was a need to verify it.


    He shot onest nce at Ji Lengyue before leaving the ce. His next destination was the crown princes manor.


    The crown princes manor was bustling today. The famous young talents in the capital were here to enjoy fine wine and delicacies whileing up with poems and couplets. Every now and then, they would talk about the current climate in the world.


    Tao Yu, Ye Qinghe, and the others were present.


    Fang Chen also spotted Li Huafeng, the son of Prime Minister Li Guozhu and the Court of Great Brilliances supervisor. He was smiling gleefully. From the flow of his inner ki, it was clear he had made a breakthrough to Ki Control.


    Fang Chen narrowed his eyes. He had heard earlier from Director Zhao that Li Huafeng had advanced to Ki Control. As the one who had previously crippled Li Huafeng, he knew that it should have been impossible for thetter to advance to Ki Control.


    The fact that Li Huafeng was able to recover from his internal trauma while he was away from the capital and made a breakthrough to Ki Control spelled that something was amiss.


    Your Highness, why are you frowning? Now that Chillwater is here, Fang Chen cant possibly escape unscathed this time, Li Huafeng took a sip of wine as he asked with a smile.


    That arrogant Fang Chen acted heedlessly and nearly turned Chillwater against us. Were fortunate that Chillwaters envoy was wise and chose to punish him alone.


    Fang Chens absence will be Great Xias blessing!


    Many voiced their agreement.


    Xia Yu looked at the crowd and sighed. <em>These people still dont know what happened in the Pce of Great Peace a few days ago. They dont know that the Fang Manor is backed by a cultivator from grade-6 Infernoze.</em>


    The emperor had ordered a gag restraint on the news. Even Tao Mingsheng and the others dared not to tell their family members.


    Li Huafeng, as the Court of Great Brilliances supervisor, should have been at the Pce of Great Peace that day, but he had recently been immersed in advancing his martial cultivation after healing from his internal trauma that he missed the assembly that day.


    Thus, he was oblivious to the events that transpired that day.


    You dont understand. Xia Yu took a sip from his wine cup. Fang Chen proposed a military exercise with Chillwater. What do you think his odds of victory are?


    Fang Chens arrogance has gotten ahead of himself this time. Hes no god. How could the Fang Manors guards stand a chance against the Nightmare Knights? Ye Qinghe sneered in disdain. Itll be futile even if he personally joins the battle. I heard Chillwaters envoy is an Earth Profound martial artist. A Ki Manifestation martial artist wont stand a chance!


    The crowd nodded in agreement. They couldnt help but be envious of Ji Lengyues strength. Even Xia Yu, Great Xias crown prince, wascking inparison to him.


    Would he propose such a challenge if he doesnt stand a chance at all? Xia Yu frowned.


    All of a sudden, Li Huafeng leaned in and whispered, Your Highness, do you have more of that incredible pill you bestowed to me? My inner ki grew by leaps and bounds after taking one. You wont have to fear the likes of Fang Chen once I advance to Ki Manifestation.


    <em>The crown prince gave Li Huafeng a pill? </em>Fang Chen stared at Xia Yu with such frigid eyes that thetter shuddered despite not noticing him.


    Xia Yu shook his head and replied, Its not easy to obtain that pill. The person who concocted it isnt in the capital at the moment. Well talk about it when he returns.


    Xia Yu is the one colluding with the Blood Spirit Cult? Fang Chen murmured, unsurprised by this revtion.

 Chapter 106: He’s Unworthy!

    Chapter 106: He¡¯s Unworthy!


    Ever since learning about the Blood Spirit Cults existence, Fang Chen had a list of suspects in mind whom he thought was colluding with them. Xia Yu was on the list.


    Li Huafeng had made a sudden recovery and achieved a breakthrough to Ki Control thanks to Xia Yus pill, but this beckoned the question: <em>where did Xia Yu obtain this pill from?</em>


    Ordinary pills wouldnt have worked on Li Huafengs injuries.


    The answer was clear.


    Both Vice Minister Qin and Enforcement Envoy Liu had been acting under Xia Yus orders.


    Xia Yu might not know what the Blood Spirit Cult was doing in Great Xia, but he must have known that those cultivators were killing innocent civilians and absorbing their blood essence to further their cultivation. Yet, he tolerated it because he was attracted to their means.


    It was not without reason that Chillwaters Ji n worshiped a cultivator. How could Xia Yu resist the temptation?


    After having their fill of drinks and food, the crowd gathered in the crown princes manor took their leave, but Tao Yu, Ye Qinghe, and Li Huafeng stayed behind.


    Do you know why Im troubled? Xia Yu asked.


    The three of them shook their heads with perplexed looks.


    Have you heard of entities in this world who possess astonishing means that surpass our wildest imagination? Xia Yu said.


    Your Highness, are you talking about immortal cultivators? Tao Yu asked. I heard those entities can only be found in remote ces or powerful states. They are too proud to reveal themselves even if they passed by Great Xia, and ordinary mortals wouldnt be able to see through them either.


    Immortal cultivators? Thats too far-fetched. I bet its a lie weaved by powerful states to intimidate their vassals! Li Huafeng remarked.


    Ye Qinghe held his tongue, choosing to patiently wait for Xia Yu to carry on.


    Immortal cultivators exist in this world. Chillwaters Ji n worships a cultivator, and thats how they rose to greatness, Xia Yu replied. Grade-6 states are strong because they are backed by cultivators. Thats the reason behind the huge disparity between grade-6 and grade-7 states.


    A few days ago, Ji Lengyue tried to take down Fang Chen, only to be intimidated when he realized that the Fang Manor has a cultivator from a grade-6 state, Infernoze Country. Thats the reason Ji Lengyue dares not to make a reckless move. Fang Chen took this opportunity to drop the idea of a military exercise, hoping to pit his guards against the Nightmare Knights.


    Tao Yu, Ye Qinghe, and Li Huafeng were taken aback by that revtion.


    Your Highness, are immortal cultivators really Li Huafeng frowned.


    How else do you think I was able to treat your internal trauma? Xia Yu sneered.


    A jolt ran through Li Huafengs body, and his eyes slowly widened in shock.


    Ill be honest with the three of you. I met some cultivators a few years back, and we got along well, so I kept them by my side. They were the ones who told me that Chillwater has a cultivator whom the Ji n worships as a god, Xia Yu said.


    Even a bird chooses its branch to perch on. Its the same logic. A cultivator doesnt just ept anyones offering. The Ji n was chosen by their cultivator, and its the same for me too.


    Tao Yu looked at Xia Yu with contemtive eyes. So, the reason Your Highness is troubled is Could the Fang Manor have caught the eye of a cultivator too?


    Indeed. Xia Yu nodded. I havent revealed my true abilities over the years, such that others think Im beneath Fang Chen, but in truth, I have merely been keeping a low profile. It would have been a walk in the park for those cultivators to kill Fang Chen. To them, Ki Manifestation martial artists are mere ants. But


    Xia Yus tone suddenly became heavy. I didnt expect the Fang Manor to have a cultivator too. Its only normal for me, as the crown prince, to have caught the eye of cultivators, but what does Fang Chen count as? How is he worthy of a cultivator?


    Fang Chen burst intoughter upon seeing this scene.


    Does that cultivator intend to help Fang Chen stage a rebellion? Ye Qinghe gasped.


    Your Highness, are those cultivators by your side now? Li Huafeng suddenly asked.


    They arent in the capital right now, and I dont know their whereabouts either. Entities like them are elusive. I can offer them tributes and make requests of them, but I cant truly control them. Xia Yu shook his head.


    Your Highness, you mentioned that grade-6 states are powerful because they have cultivators. If you could obtain the art of immortal cultivation from them, our Great Xia might just be able to rise to that level Li Huafengs eyes lit up.


    Hahaha Xia Yuughed pitifully. I have once offered to pay a hefty price in exchange for their cultivation method, but they said the entire Great Xia isnt worth their manual.


    What arrogant words! Li Huafeng frowned.


    You are saying that because you have never witnessed their means. There is credence to their words. I dare not demand too much. I can only leave it to fate. All I want now is to strengthen Great Xia through their hands, so that we wont have to be humiliated by the likes of Greenpine. Hopefully, we can stand on equal terms with Chillwater in the future! Xia Yu dered proudly.


    The other three men were awed by Xia Yus ambition. <em>Standing on equal terms as Chillwater? That would be a tremendous feat that no other Great Xia emperor has achieved. </em>


    I was nning to slowly bulk up Great Xia, in hopes that a dayes where my dream can be fulfilled. However, the appearance of a cultivator in the Fang Manor has messed up my n. They are an impediment in my path. How do you think I should deal with this? Xia Yu asked.


    He wouldnt have lost himself if the cultivator had chosen to side with anyone else in Great Xia, but he absolutely wouldnt permit a cultivator siding with Fang Chen. Thetter was his greatest inner demon. Only by eliminating Fang Chen and his Third Brother could he devote himself to bing a good emperor for Great Xia!


    Your Highness, you need not be troubled over this, Li Huafeng said. You mentioned earlier that the Ji n has a cultivator too. I doubt the Fang Manors cultivator will be able to suppress the Ji ns cultivator. Fang Chen and Ji Lengyue are likely participating in the military exercise. If so, I bet that Ji Lengyue wont allow Fang Chen to return alive.


    What if the Fang Manors cultivator goes on a rampage? Xia Yu frowned. We dont know the cultivators background. This could have an adverse effect on Great Xia.


    Your Highness, it should be fine. You can convince the cultivators youre worshiping to eliminate him. If anything happens, you can frame it on Chillwaters Ji n, Li Huafeng said with a sinister smile. Not only will we be able to take down Fang Chen, but Chillwater will have their hands full to keep an eye on us. Our Great Xia will be able to develop without any worries.


    Xia Yusplexion slowly recovered. He had instinctively avoided scheming against cultivators because he understood and feared their means, which was why Li Daoyes existence frustrated him to no end.


    However, Li Huafengs advice told him that it was possible to scheme against cultivators too, and he could reap many benefits from it too.


    The cultivators I am worshiping haven''t returned yet, and Im not sure when theyll be back. However, they left me with an item and told me that even cultivators will die if they consume it. Xia Yus lips crept up. Help me poison the Fang Manors cultivator during the military exercise. Well frame it on Chillwater.


    Fang Chen shook his head. He didnt bother listening on. His soul departed from the crown princes manor and returned to his body.


    <em>Its meaningless to continue listening to him. Xia Yu doesn''t know that Zhou Yizeng and the others are dead, and I am aware of his intention to kill Li Daoye and frame it on Chillwater now. They wont have a chance to pull it off.</em>


    Chener, the Old Master is calling you over.


    Shortly after Fang Chens soul returned, he heard Fang Cangyous voice from the doorway.

 Chapter 107: Let’s Go Meet Them

    Chapter 107: Let¡¯s Go Meet Them


    Fang Chen made his way to Fang Zhentians courtyard and saw thetter pacing around with a frown. He sped his fist and asked with a smile, Grandfather, did you stumble upon a problem in your cultivation?


    Li Daoye mentioned that cultivation requires a huge amount of resources, especially an item called ki stone, but theres nothing of that sort in our Great Xia, as well as Guhe, Longdu, and the other nearby countries. Do you have a solution to that problem? Fang Zhentian asked.


    With his temperament, since he had embarked on the path of immortal cultivation, he would put his mind to obtaining the strongest means possible so that he could oppose the Blood Spirit Cult and ensure peace in Great Xia.


    But if the Blood Spirit Cultists had ki stones to aid their training whereas the Fang n didnt, their Fang nsmen, including him, would inevitablyg behind them.


    Furthermore, the Fang n would be known as a cultivator n if more cultivators emerged from their lineage.


    Li Daoye had told him that the world of cultivation obeyed thew of the jungle, the survival of the fittest. Should the world of cultivation notice their existence, it could bring trouble upon them.


    Knowing that it was not a rosy path ahead of them, Fang Zhentian had to begin nning the Fang ns future as an immortal n, lest they be unprepared for what was about toe.


    I nearly forgot about that. Fang Chen smacked his forehead. He had 400 low-grade ki stones in his storage ring. He took out a hundred of them and passed them to Fang Zhentian, saying, Grandfather, these are low-grade ki stones. Feel free to use these for now. Let me know if they arent enough.


    This matter had slipped his mind as he didnt use ki stones in his cultivationhis spirit ki replenished so fast that there was no need for it. However, the same couldnt be said about Fang Zhentian. Thetter would progress much faster with the aid of these ki stones.


    A hundred ki stones?! Fang Zhentian was first shocked, only to be enraged next. Li Daoye lied to me. He said that normal sects gave their disciples one low-grade ki stone every month, which made me wonder just how valuable ki stones are.


    Grandfather, you have misunderstood him. Fang Chen chuckled. He went on to exin how he obtained his ki stones.


    Ah! Fang Zhentianughed heartily. He patted Fang Chens shoulders and eximed, As expected of my good grandson. You have already resolved our problems even though it hasnt been long since you embarked on the path of immortal cultivation yourself. The hundreds of ki stones you have obtained should be enough tost us for years.


    Li Daoye was not lying when he said that the Eight Trigrams Sect gave their disciples a low-grade ki stone each month. Even he wasnt an exception to the rule. Those who wanted more would have to find ways to earn it themselves.


    The world of cultivation was always scarce on resources. Those who werent strong enough could only watch in envy as others feasted on meat. This was why cultivators were sometimes even more calctive than mortals over a single low-grade ki stone.


    Grandfather, take this jade token and assimte it with your spirit ki. Fang Chen passed the jade token he usually carried with him to Fang Zhentian. He had already erased his soul imprint from it.


    Is this an artifact? Fang Zhentian asked as he took the jade token and fiddled with it. He sensed concentrated spirit ki from it, and he could see a few glowing daosoul imprints on it too.


    Had he not manifested his first immortal vein, he wouldnt have known what was special about this jade token even if he smashed it into pieces.


    Indeed, its a protection artifact, Fang Chen replied with a nod. He then took out Zhou Yizengs sword and said, I obtained this sword from one of the Blood Spirit Cultists. Its an eight daosoul imprint artifact, so it should be fairly powerful. Grandfather, you should assimte it too.


    Good, good! Fang Zhentian nodded with a smile. He was extremely fond of the sword.


    Just then, Xu Ge suddenly rushed over and shouted, Young master, I have an urgent report!


    Go and do what you must. Ill continue cultivating, Fang Zhentian said with a smile.


    Fang Chen took his leave from the courtyard. Xu Ge whispered into Fang Chens ears with an excited expression.


    The Third Prince has escaped from Greenpine? The edges of Fang Chens lips crept up. Come, lets go wee him.


    Celestial Xiao had been keeping a low profile in the Fang Manor all this while, such that only a small handful of people knew about her true identity. She felt conflicted each time she thought about what happened in the imperial court that day.


    What are you thinking about, Celestial Xiao? Fang Chen asked with an enigmatic smile as he made his way over.


    Young master Fang, Celestial Xiao greeted with a strained smile.


    It had sunk into her that Great Xia was no longer a weakling that their Greenpine could take advantage of. The Fang Manors Li Daoye was not only from grade-6 Infernoze Country, but he was also a cultivator on top of that.


    Just Li Daoye himself was more than enough to intimidate Greenpine.


    The Third Prince has just left Greenpine. You have been in our Fang Manor for many days now, so it should be about time for you to return home, Fang Chen said.


    Im not going back Celestial Xiao blurted out.


    Youre Wolf Marshall Xiaos daughter. He might really think that I have killed you if you dont appear soon, Fang Chen replied.


    I can write a letter to my father, Celestial Xiao said. Ill exin things to him, so that


    So that you can remain in the Fang Manor and bide your time for an opportunity to steal our cultivation method? Fang Chen chuckled.


    Celestial Xiao turned bright red at having her thoughts revealed, but this was a rare opportunity for her and her n. She couldnt let it slip past her fingers.


    First and foremost, there arent many people who have the talent to be a cultivator. Second, youre from Greenpine. You could be talented as a cultivator, but I wont let youe into contact with anything from that world.


    Fang Chens face slowly became stern. You wont get anything from our Fang Manor, and you know that deep down. Rather than to waste your time here, I suggest you return to Greenpine and have a good talk with your father. I dont want to have anything to do with your Greenpine in the next few years because I have better things to do.


    But


    No buts. Leave. Fang Chen told Xu Ge to take Celestial Xiao away without giving her a chance to retort.


    There had been many eyes in the capital recently, and Ji Lengyue was still around. Fang Chen didnt want anyone to know he was leaving the capital, so he donned a disguise before leaving. With the help of the Great Xia Shadow Guards, their group discreetly left the capital at night.


    Several dayster, a dashing, white-robed man with a sword in hand could be seen galloping across the Tiger Gate Pass.


    There was a huge cloud of dust behind him, raised by the hundreds of Wolf Army elites pursuing him. Any Great Xia veteran would have been shocked to see themander of the Wolf Army.


    Themander of the Wolf Army was in his forties. He had thick eyebrows and a masculine facial structure. From time to time, a sharp glint could be seen in his eyes. He was the man who defeated Fang Chen in the Three Realms Mountain, Greenpine Countrys Wolf Marshall Xiao!


    Hahaha! Marshall Xiao, why are you so bent on chasing me? Ill stay and leave as I please. You cant stop me from doing what I want! The white-robed manughed while escaping for his life.


    Wolf Marshall Xiaos subordinates growled in anger.


    Wolf Marshall Xiao himself harrumphed coldly. Third Prince, I concede that Im surprised that you possess the means of a Ki Manifestation martial artist, but the steed youre riding on hasnt rested for a day now. Its already nearing its limit. You cant escape.


    As if fulfilling the prophecy, the white-robed mans war steed suddenly copsed to the ground with a sorrowful neigh, throwing him across the air. However, the white-robed man was able to easily regain his bnce and gracefullynd on the ground unharmed.


    Pui! You and your ominous mouth! Did you beat Big Fang with that ominous mouth of yours?! The white-robed man knew that he couldnt outrun his pursuers on foot, so he stopped escaping and instead spat at Wolf Marshall Xiao.


    In an instant, Wolf Marshall Xiao and his men had the white-robed man surrounded. He red at the white-robed man and sneered, Fang Chen kept my daughter in Great Xia, so Ill make sure you remain in our Greenpine too.

 Chapter 108: Waited Five Years

    Chapter 108: Waited Five Years


    Youre going to keep me here? Haha! What big words! the white-robed man scoffed in disdain. I wouldnt have been able to get here at all if you had the means to stop me. Do you think you and your Wolf Army are a match for me? You havent seen my true skills yet!


    Youre stalling for time. Fang Chen must have received the news and is heading here, Wolf Marshall Xiao suddenly said.


    Arent you going to escape since you know Fang Chen is on his way here? I heard he has regained his cultivation. You wont be a match for us once we join forces, the white-robed man replied with a chuckle.


    I shattered his ki sea. Theres no way for him to regain his martial cultivation. I dont know what your emperor was thinking by killing our Greenpine martial artists and my daughter. Is he trying to provoke me to invade Great Xia? But for what reason? Wolf Marshall Xiao asked.


    Ey, I also dont know why Big Fang did that. He should have at least considered my plight before doing as he pleased! The white-robed man sighed. Why dont I head back and get to the bottom of this matter, then Ill answer your doubts via letter?


    Hah! Wolf Marshall Xiao sneered. Youre taking me for a fool.


    I wouldnt dare. Youre Greenpines First Wolf Marshall! The white-robed manughed. I would never dare to take you for a fool. You know that I am stalling for time, but youre still ying along with me. Whats your intention?


    Just then, resoundingughter echoed from afar. A few figures could be spotted heading toward the Tiger Gate Pass.


    He never intended to keep you in Greenpine.


    Big Fang! The white-robed man rushed toward the approaching figures with heartyughter.


    The Wolf Army wanted to stop him, but Wolf Marshall Xiao stopped them with a raised hand. Wolf Marshall Xiao quietly looked at the familiar yet foreign figure.


    Fang Chen shared a hug with the white-robed man, while Xu Ge smiled doltishly by the side. Celestial Xiao looked at Wolf Marshall Xiao with a conflicted expression.


    The Wolf Army was surprised and confused to see that Celestial Xiao was still alive and was traveling with Fang Chen.


    How has Greenpine been? Fang Chen assessed Xia Ji with a peculiar gleam in his eyes.


    Ive been well. Good food, good drinks, beautiful women; I didntck anything at all. Xia Ji reminisced with a wistful look, oblivious to Fang Chens anomaly. Its just that I realized Wolf Marshall Xiao wanted to take my life a while back, so I had no choice but to escape.


    May we have a private chat? Fang Chen looked at Wolf Marshall Xiao.


    Thetter looked at Fang Chens grayish-white eyes and nodded.


    Wolf Marshall! one of the Wolf Armysmanders eximed. Be careful, they might haveid an ambush!


    Its fine. Wolf Marshall Xiao shook his head before apanying Fang Chen and the others into the distance.


    Whats going on? Fang Chen asked, as he first looked at the hundreds of Wolf Army elites, followed by Wolf Marshall Xiao.


    Someone tried to assassinate him in the capital to frame us, so I chased him out of Greenpine. My guess is that its someone from Great Xia. You owe me a favor, Wolf Marshall Xiao cidly replied.


    What do you mean? I saved your daughters life. Shouldnt we call it even? Fang Chen gestured at Celestial Xiao.


    You are obliged to save her. I spared you back then, Wolf Marshall Xiao replied.


    The two of you Big Fang, are you colluding with Wolf Marshall Xiao? Did he intentionally chase me out of Greenpine? Xia Ji was astounded.


    Celestial Xiao was baffled too. <em>Whats going on?</em>


    The message you sent me earlieris it true? Wolf Marshall Xiao grimly asked.


    Fang Chen gestured to Celestial Xiao and said, She has the answer. The two of you can slowly talk it out at home. The intel I provided you is a favor too, so we dont owe each other anymore.


    What about me freeing him from Greenpine? How do you count this? Wolf Marshall Xia pointed to Xia Ji.


    Hell be able to escape even if you dont free him. All you did was to send someone to inform me, Fang Chen replied. And that doesnt count as a favor. Because he did the same too.


    What the hell are the two of you getting at?! Xia Ji was losing his patience.


    Well talk about it when we get back, Fang Chen replied.


    Get back? Xia Ji frowned. He hesitantly looked at Fang Chen and said, Big Fang, I dont n on returning to Great Xia


    You arent returning? Youre going to let your big brother continue upying the crown princes position? Fang Chen asked with a frown.


    Hes the eldest son. Hes entitled to the seat. As for me Xia Ji lowered his head to conceal the reluctance in his eyes. I have my ns. Someone will be fetching very soon. I dont know how long Ill be away, so I came here to bid you farewell.


    Fang Chen fell silent.


    Wolf Marshall Xiao frowned. <em>The Third Prince shouldnt have been able to get here if I didnt make a move, and Fang Chen only arrived in time because I sent a message over. Yet, why is the Third Prince speaking as if he nned this?</em>


    Isnt it about time, Junior Xia? Our master has waited five years for you. You should be done tying up loose knots in your secr affairs by now, a voice echoed from a nearby tree.


    Both Wolf Marshall Xiao and Fang Chen were startled. The nearby Wolf Army tensed up too, and they began making moves to encircle the tree, only to be stopped by Wolf Marshall Xiao.


    The other party had been hiding on this tree all this while, but Wolf Marshall Xiao didnt notice a thing despite being a Ki Manifestation martial artist. This hinted that the other party was strong.


    On top of that, the other party addressed Xia Ji as junior, which meant that he or his master might have been the reason Xia Ji possessed strengthparable to a Ki Manifestation martial artist even though he was thought to be a normal person.


    Is it you, Senior Liu? Master didnt send Senior Wu to fetch me? Xia Ji was disappointed.


    You should be happy Im here to fetch you!


    The man hiding in the tree harrumphed in dissatisfaction. He leaped off the tree, and with just a few steps, he was already standing before the crowd. The way his leisurely steps covered a huge distance created an illusion as if space had contracted just for him to move faster.


    He uncorked the gourd he was holding with his right hand and downed its content. A fragrant alcoholic scent wafted in the air. After drinking his fill, he let out a satisfied burp.


    Without bothering to look at the others, he turned to Xia Ji and impatiently said, Hurry up and say what you want to say. We wont make it for the boat if you continue dawdling here.


    All right, all right. Xia Ji helplessly nodded. He gave Fang Chen another tight hug before saying, Big Fang, my brother! Ill be going to a faraway ce, so I need you to shoulder the burden while Im gone. Ill be entrusting Great Xia to you. Dont worry, Ill return to dominate the world once I be a master!


    Where are you going? Fang Chen frowned.


    You dont need to care about that. The two of you arent from the same world anymore. If not for you, he wouldnt have kept stalling for time, Senior Liu sneered at Fang Chen. He stepped forward and grabbed Xia ji, and the two of them vanished from sight with just a few leaps.


    What an incredible movement skill. Wolf Marshall Xiao has a tight frown on his face. He had never seen such terrifying movement skill before, even from experts in grade-8 states.


    That fellow stumbled upon a fortuitous encounter five years ago, but he waited for five whole years for me to regain my martial cultivation before leaving Fang Chen shook his head and sighed.


    He couldnt see through Senior Lius background, but he did sense a pulsation of spirit ki when he embraced Xia Ji. Thetter must have joined a cultivator sect.

 Chapter 109: Probing Their Background

    Chapter 109: Probing Their Background


    Xia Ji had managed to deceive everyone, including Fang Chen.


    If Fang Chen hadnt been a cultivator, he wouldnt have known that Xia Ji was a cultivator too. He would have thought that thetter was just a cker with so-so martial cultivation.


    You saw it yourself, Wolf Marshall Xiao. Xia Ji came out by himself. You wouldnt have been able to stop him, so this favor doesnt count. Rather, you owe me one, Fang Chen said.


    Did he join some major martial arts sect? Is that person from a grade-8 or grade-7 state? Wolf Marshall Xiao asked.


    How am I to know? Fang Chen shrugged. Remember what I told you. Take a closer look at if theres anything amiss in your country. Quite a number of your people died at the Three Realms Mountain back then too.


    I will.


    Wolf Marshall Xiao stared deeply at Fang Chen before leaving with Celestial Xiao and the hundreds of Wolf Army elites. Slowly, they disappeared from Fang Chen and Xu Ges sight.


    Young master, why didnt you keep him here? Xu Ge was confused.


    This was a good opportunity to take down Wolf Marshall Xiao. It would be a huge blow to Greenpine if they lost their marshall and a Ki Manifestation martial artist here.


    Issues on the battlefield should be settled on the battlefield, Fang Chen replied. Besides, I need him to verify whether there are Blood Spirit Cultists stationed in Greenpine. Compared to the Blood Spirit Cultists, Wolf Marshall Xiao can be considered to be a good person.


    Xu Ge nodded. The Blood Spirit Cult was indeed the bigger threat here.


    Its a pity about the Third Prince. We came here to fetch him, but he left with someone else, Xu Ge said with a sigh.


    Thats better for him. He has already squandered five years for me. He shouldnt waste any more time, Fang Chen said with a smile. Theres nothing pitiful about it. At least we managed to see him off.


    He was d that he made it on time, or else he wouldnt have been able to see Xia Ji onest time. That Senior Liu didnt look like a patient person. The only thing hemented was Xia Ji not being able to tell him which sect he had joined, else he could have looked for him in the future.


    Boat Thats a good clue. I should ask Li Daoye about it when I return, Fang Chen murmured.


    The two of them made their way back to the capital.


    Two more days passed.


    Guhe, Longdu, and Yizhou had received word that Great Xia was going to conduct a joint military exercise with Chillwater, so they dispatched their envoys along with hundreds of their elites.


    At the same time, rumors began spreading in Great Xias capital that Third Prince Xia Ji had been killed by Wolf Marshall Xiao.


    Fang Chen chuckled when he heard the rumor. He knew it was Wolf Marshall Xiaos doing; thetter was doing him a small favor here.


    This rumor would tempt those in Great Xia who intended to do Xia Ji harm into action, while exining Xia Jis disappearance at the same time.


    Brother Li, do cultivators take boats when traveling too? Fang Chen casually asked.


    Sometimes, yes. Li Daoye nodded. Some ces are simply too far, and normal cultivators arent capable of riding on swords. Naturally, theyll have to travel via boat. There are many boats on the sea that look normal on the surface but only ferry cultivators. These boats utilize the formations on the sea left behind by predecessors to shorten their traveling time.


    You also have to take a boat to travel from Great Xia to Infernoze Country. Little Abbess and I had to take quite a few boats before we finally arrived at your Great Xia.


    What if one is heading to the Center Continent Country? Fang Chen asked.


    Center Continent Country?! Li Daoye was taken aback. He gave Fang Chen a long hard stare before continuing on, Thats a grade-1 state. Its very far from where we are. Its not just about whether to take a boat or not; we dont even know where it is!


    One of our Infernozes Foundation Establishment cultivators once tried to travel to the Center Continent Country, only to return to Infernoze a hundred yearster. What do you think happened?


    What happened? Fang Chen asked.


    He got lost. He didnt even get to see the Center Continent Country. He ended up wandering aimlessly for a hundred years. Li Daoye burst intoughter. The closest he got was a grade-3 state, but he offended someone there and had to escape back to Infernoze.


    <em>I dont think Elder Cloudcrane told me how to get to Center Continent Country </em>Fang Chens expression stiffened up.


    If Li Daoye wasnt lying, it wouldnt be an easy feat for him to reach the Center Continent Country and join the Three Thousand Dao Gate after reaching Foundation Establishment. However, he did give Elder Cloudcrane his word, after all, so it wouldnt be good for him to break his promise.


    Young master Fang, you need not dream about the Center Continent Country. Thats a ce where sages live. Its one thing if youre born there, but otherwise, its unlikely youll ever reach there, Li Daoye said.


    My father told me that this kind of ce is filled with treasures, precious medicinal herbs, spirit springs, spirit mountains, and so on. Its truly a paradise.


    While the two of them were chatting, two figures appeared in front of the Fang Manor.


    One of them was a white-haired elder who stood with a straight posture. Veins were popping from his temples, and his muscles were well-defined as if they were carved from marble. His body clearly harnessed tremendous strength.


    The other one had a sharp mouth, emaciated cheeks, and a -shaped mustache. His beady eyes made him look cunning.


    Great immortal, we have arrived at the Fang Manor. My grandson told me that Infernozes cultivator is inside here, the former said with a respectful attitude.


    Ji Congyun, I only came here out of respect for you. Ill put it out here first. Dont expect me to help you if that cultivator has a powerful background, thetter nonchntly said.


    I understand, Ji Congyun replied with a humble nod.


    Knock on the door, the Ji ns cultivator said.


    Ji Congyun walked up and knocked on the Fang Manors door. The butler opened the door, eyed the two of them, and frowned. You are?


    Tell Fang Zhentian that I, Ji Congyun, am here, Ji Congyun said.


    The butler shuddered. He immediately rushed back in to ry the news, but he ryed it not to Fang Zhentian but Fang Chen.


    Young master, someone named Ji Congyun is at the door. Hes here to meet our Old Master!


    Fang Chens eyes gleamed with mirth. How many of them are there?


    Two.


    Invite them in, Fang Chen instructed. He waited for the butler to leave before he turned to Li Daoye and said, Ji Lengyue has a cultivator on his side. The two of them are here to probe us. Make sure you dont cower at a time like this.


    Dont worry, I wont cower as long as hes only a wandering cultivator, Li Daoye replied confidently.


    Wandering cultivators were of extremely low ranking in the world of cultivation. They had no background and no resources, which was why some of them ended up getting worshiped by mortal ns.


    Li Daoye had always looked down on those people.


    Soon, Ji Congyun and the Ji ns cultivator were brought to the main hall. The Ji ns cultivator immediately turned to Li Daoye, and thetter looked over too.


    Third stage Ki Refinement? The Ji ns cultivator smiled.


    His soul was stronger than Li Daoyes due to his higher cultivation, so he could see through Li Daoyes cultivation at a nce. The grimness in his eyes vanished without a trace.


    That fellow is stronger than me, Li Daoye whispered to Fang Chen.


    You must be Fang Zhentians grandson, Fang Chen? Ji Congyun looked at Fang Chen with an enigmatic smile as he discreetly unleashed a terrifying aura.


    He might not be a cultivator, but he was a pinnacle Earth Profound martial artist.

 Chapter 110: What A Pity

    Chapter 110: What A Pity


    Elder, you must Chillwaters Ji ns Elder Ji Congyun? Fang Chen stood up and greeted the other party. Pardon me for myck of hospitality.


    Ji Congyun eyed Li Daoye before speaking, Are you the one calling the shots in the Fang n now? Wheres Fang Zhentian? We met each other once before many years ago, and Id like to reminisce about the past with him.


    Our Old Master is ailing in health, so Im afraid he isnt in a good state to meet you. Yes, Im now the decision-maker in our Fang n. May I know why youre here? Fang Chen asked.


    Its nothing much. I heard from my grandson theres a cultivator in your Fang Manor, and I invited the immortal worshiped by our Ji n here to have a chat with him. Ji Congyun turned to Li Daoye and sped his fist. You must be the immortal from Infernoze! Its my honor to meet you.


    Before Li Daoye could speak, the Ji ns cultivator beat him to it, Third stage Ki Refinement. You arent strong, but you arent exactly weak either. What caught your eyethe Fang n or Great Xia?


    Elder, you have good eyes. May I know what your cultivation level is? Li Daoye asked with a smile.


    Ah, Imcking in talent. Ive cultivated for seventy years now, but Im only at sixth stage Ki Refinement, the Ji ns cultivatormented, but there was a hint of glee in his eyes.


    It was a formidable feat for a wandering cultivator to reach sixth stage Ki Refinement. That was more than enough for him to im supremacy in this region. Even in Infernoze, he would be considered to be mid-tier.


    <em>Sixth stage Ki Refinement? It wont be easy to deal with him. </em>Fear surfaced in Li Daoyes eyes. He instinctively turned to Fang Chen.


    Young man, we, cultivators, should be focusing on our cultivation to achieve immortality. Itll be best to steer clear of secr affairs. Has your sects elders not warned you before?


    That depends on my mood. Your cultivation might be higher than mine, but youre just a wandering cultivator, right? Li Daoye retorted.


    The Ji ns cultivator stiffened up. He awkwardly asked, Young man, which sect are you from?


    Infernozes Eight Trigrams Sect, Li Daoye proudly replied.


    Eight Trigrams Sect? Ive never heard of it before.


    The Ji ns cultivator breathed a sigh of relief. There was nothing to fear if Li Daoye was only from a minor sect. In fact, there were some minor sects that fared even worse than him. With such a thought in mind, he said with a smile, I might be a wandering cultivator, but someone of my cultivation will receive privileged treatment in Infernoze.


    He paused for a second before adding, Take my warning to heart. You should leave secr affairs to ordinary mortals, or else a battle between us is inevitable.


    With that, the Ji ns cultivator directed a smile at Fang Chen before taking his leave.


    You resembled Fang Zhentian back then. What a pity. Ji Congyun looked at Fang Chen and shook his head before leaving with the Ji ns cultivator.


    That old thing is so arrogant! Li Daoye was infuriated. A mere wandering cultivator dares to threaten me!


    Youre only at third stage Ki Refinement. You might have your sect to back you up, but think about how far away is Infernoze from here? If hees after you, you wont even have time to send a message back, let alone wait for reinforcements to arrive, Fang Chen remarked.


    Thats why, its only normal for him to threaten you. In fact, I dont think hell travel all the way here just to drop a threat. Great Xia has nothing that interests him, but the same cant be said about you. Whats the mostmon thing that happens between cultivators?


    Killing others for their treasures? Li Daoye gasped in shock. I couldnt tell that old man harbors such an intention in mind.


    Hes a wary person. From the start to the end, he didnt give off any inclination of doing that. However, if I was in his ce, after confirming that you are of no threat to me, Ill secretly kill you and take away all of your possessions, Fang Chen said. <em>He also doesnt know that Xia Yu is nning to poison him. </em>


    Young master Fang, you have to protect me! Li Daoye cried.


    Have you forgotten about the Purple Lightning Talisman? How many Purple Lightning Talismans do you think a sixth stage Ki Refinement cultivator can withstand? Fang Chen said.


    Right!


    Li Daoye regained his confidence. He nearly forgot about his Purple Lightning Talismans. With this ace in hand, he could easily defeat the other party, whether he was a sixth stage or seventh stage Ki Refinement cultivator.


    Outside the Fang Manor, Ji Congyun asked, Is that Fang Chen a cultivator?


    He was worried that the Fang n had obtained a cultivation method.


    Of course not, the Ji ns cultivator scoffed. Its a taboo to leak cultivation methods, especially if one is from a sect. Cultivation sects are very strict about that. Disciples found to have given away their cultivation method risk having their cultivation crippled.


    At this point, the Ji ns cultivator lowered his head and sighed. There might not be many cultivators in this world, but theres even fewer cultivation resources. Even major sects have to be prudent when taking in disciples, for an additional cultivator in the world meant there were fewer cultivation resources to go around.


    He turned around and looked at the Fang Manor with greedy eyes. <em>Cultivation resources are scarce, after all. It wasnt easy for me to encounter a third stage Ki Refinement sect disciple. I cant let this opportunity slip past my fingers. </em>


    Meanwhile, Ji Lengyue had been waiting in his pce.


    When Ji Congyun and the Ji ns cultivator arrived, he breathed a sigh of relief. He quickly headed over with his Nightmare Knights and greeted them with a bow.


    Grandfather, Immortal Zuo. Ji Lengyues attitude was extremely respectful.


    One was the Ji ns Old Master, whereas the other was the immortal worshiped by the Ji n. Both were the pirs of their Ji n.


    Immortal Zuo has already taken a look, and the Fang Manors cultivator pales inparison to Immortal Zuo. You may proceed with the military exercise without any worries, Ji Congyun said.


    Thats wonderful! Ji Lengyue was overjoyed. The heaviness looming in his heart for thest few days finally dissipated. <em>In the end, the Fang Manors cultivator turns out to be weaker than the immortal we worship! This makes things much easier.</em>


    A cruel smile formed on Ji Lengyues face. <em>Just you wait, Fang Chen. Ill return the humiliation I suffered in the Pce of Great Peace tenfold to you! </em>


    Ill be cultivating now. Call me when its time, Immortal Zuo said before taking his leave.


    Shortly after he left, Ji Lengyue asked with a hushed voice, Grandfather, we have worshiped Immortal Zuo for many years now. We found many ki stones and spirit medicine for him, and many of our nsmen have died obtaining them. When will Immortal Zuo fulfill his promise and impart his cultivation method to us?


    Theres no rush. Lets wait a bit more since Immortal Zuo has made us a promise. I dont think Ill live to that day, but you still stand a chance. Otherwise, your offspring would have a chance too, Ji Congyun said with a smile.


    How long will that take Ji Congyun murmured. His eyes suddenly turned vicious, and he said, Grandfather, youre a pinnacle Earth Profound martial artist. If you use all your means, you might just be able to rival Immortal Zuo. Why dont we


    Lengyue, you have to be patient. If you arent capable of that, I can let your siblings take your position instead. Ji Congyun patted Ji Lengyues shoulders before leaving.


    Ji Lengyues face darkened.


    Just then, one of the Nightmare Knights came and reported that the Great Xias emperor had invited him into the imperial pce to discuss the uing military exercise. The envoys of the other countries had already arrived and were waiting for him.


    Fang Chen, who had been watching the scene with his soul, fell into deep thought.


    <em>The Ji n must have forked out a hefty price to worship Immortal Zuo, else a junior like Ji Lengyue wouldnt have suggested making a move on a cultivator. </em>


    The Ji n seems to have found a way to acquire ki stones and spirit herbs, though it looks theres some danger in acquiring them Fang Chen murmured.

 Chapter 111: Leaping Across the Air

    Chapter 111: Leaping Across the Air


    It was a sunny day with a gentle breeze in the southern suburbs of Great Xias empire.


    People from all walks of life were gathered here, from scions of nobles and officials to vendors and normal civilians, leaving the rest of the capital empty. Today, Great Xia and Chillwater were going to hold a joint military exercise.


    There were too many people gathered in the area, so Great Xias emperor ordered the soldiers to demarcate a line to keep the crowd from the area used for the military exercise.


    The emperor and his officials were seated on chairs atop a constructed tform.


    Ji Lengyue was present too, and not too far away from him were Guhe, Longdu, and Yizhous envoys. Those three envoys spared no effort to fawn on Ji Lengyue, paying little heed to Great Xias emperor.


    Ji Congyun and Immortal Zuo were sitting next to Ji Lengyue. The crowd was curious who they were as they didnt reveal their identities, but no one dared to ask it aloud.


    Fang Chen, Fang Cangyou, and Li Daoye were seated together. The atmosphere on their side was light-hearted, and they would asionally chat and smile.


    Xia Yu eyed Fang Chen with a triumphant smile. When he heard that Xia Ji was dead, he was so overjoyed that he drank himself silly. This was the best news he had received in recent days. With Xia Ji gone, he had no otherpetitors over his position as the crown prince!


    Li Daoye from grade-6 Infernoze? Hmph! Xia Yu looked at Li Daoye with a glint in his eyes. <em>So what if youre a cultivator? Youll be my stepping stone today, the first knife Ill plunge toward Chillwater!</em>


    Another person had his eyes on Li DaoyeImmortal Zuo.


    It was always a struggle to obtain cultivation resources. It was rare for him to stumble upon a rtively weak sect disciple in this remote location. To him, Li Daoye looked like a feast waiting to be dug into.


    That fellow has been staring at me, young master Fang. Youre right. Even though Li Daoye didnt look at Immortal Zuo, he still keenly sensed that thetter was eyeing him, and his face turned awful.


    Its fine. Fang Chen chuckled. Dont be afraid. You''re not the prey today.


    Li Daoye nodded. He wasnt too worried as Fang Chen was here. The other party might be a sixth stage Ki Refinement cultivator, but he would still copse when faced with the devastating prowess of the Purple Lightning Talisman.


    Lord Ji, Id like to invite you to our Guhe after this military exercise. We recently found a few more new mines, and itd be best if Lord Ji can offer us some pointers about it. Guhes envoy was bootlicking so much that Great Xias officials couldnt watch on.


    Longdu and Yizhou refused to back down either. They also extended invitations to Ji Lengyue to visit their countries after the military exercise.


    Ill drop by if I have time. Ji Lengyue nodded with a smile. He then turned to the emperor and said, Its not early anymore. Shall we begin the military exercise?


    The emperor looked at Fang Chen.


    Its indeed not early anymore. Fang Chen nodded.


    We shall begin the military exercise, the emperor dered with a grim voice.


    Ji Lengyue raised his hand, and his hundred Nightmare Knights galloped onto the training field. The civilians watching the spectacle from outside the demarcated line fell silent.


    What terrifying auras! They are strong warriors!


    Each of these Nightmare Knights can be a founder of a sect themselves.


    All hundred of them are at pinnacle Ki Control! How many pinnacle Ki Control martial artists do we have in our capital? And I heard there are even more of them back in Chillwater!


    War God Fang has gotten ahead of himself. His manors guards are going to be wiped out. They wont even survive the first round of charge.


    Of course. There might still be a chance if Fang Chen personally leads the army but I heard that Chillwaters envoy is an Earth Profound martial artist


    Great Xias martial artists had a clear grasp of both sides strength, but the young masters and young misses who were here to watch themotion had their own takes too. Soon enough, a vibrant discussion could be heard from the crowd.


    War God Fang wont lose! a cold voice suddenly echoed over the nearby discussions.


    The crowd looked over and gasped in shock.


    Is that Jade Fairy?!


    Its her! She might be wearing a veil, but no one else in the capital has that kind of disposition.


    The crowd was delighted.


    Jade Fairy was apanied by thedies from the Jade Immortal Boat. Their group swiftly drew the attention of the surrounding crowd, and they instinctively opened up a plot of empty space for them to upy.


    The otherdies from the Great Xia River were here too, and the gathering of thesedies created quite a spectacle.


    Fang Chen had be their idol ever since he killed Marquess Xianyu on the Great Xia River. Upon learning that their idol was going to participate in a military exercise against Chillwater, they were determined toe and support him.


    The admiration they harbored toward Fang Chen induced the envy of nearby young masters.


    Jade Fairy, War God Fang is strong, but hesckingpared to Chillwater. Youre setting yourself up for disappointment. A dashing young scion sped his fist toward Jade Fairy.


    Oh? I dont think so, Jade Fairy nced at him before replying cidly.


    <em>Jade Fairy talked to me! </em>The young scion was excited. His group of friends regretted not taking the initiative earlier, or else they could have been the ones talking to Jade Fairy instead.


    The young scion suppressed his glee and spoke with feignedposure, Jade Fairy, its not that I want to make light of War God Fang, but Chillwaters Nightmare Knights are formidable, not to mention Chillwaters Lord Ji Lengyue has reached Earth Profound. I fear War God Fang doesnt stand


    He couldnt continue speaking as Jade Fairy had turned to look at Fang Chen. She had no intention of engaging with him at all!


    The young scion had no choice but to back off with an awkward smile. <em>Just wait! Youll see that Im right very soon. </em>


    The hundred Nightmare Knights stood imposingly on the field on horseback. All of them were looking at Ji Lengyue.


    With a faint chuckle, Ji Lengyue leaped across the air, covering a distance of over fifty meters. Under the radiant sunlight, his silhouette looked almost like an immortals. Hended lightly on one of the steeds, and the steed neighed loudly.


    H-he covered fifty meters with a single jump?!


    Not even Ki Manifestation martial artists are able to move like that


    How are the Fang Manors guards supposed to go against something like that?


    Its no wonder they are a superior state. Our Great Xia has been founded for over centuries now, but we still pale inparison.


    Both the surrounding civilians and officials were shocked by Ji Lengyues movement skill. All of them instinctively turned to Fang Chen.

 Chapter 112: That’s All Earth Profound Realm Amounts To

    Chapter 112: That¡¯s All Earth Profound Realm Amounts To


    Fang Chen chuckled. He slowly rose up and leisurely walked down the tform, making his way to the training field. The Fang Manors guards followed him.


    In contrast to Ji Lengyue and his Nightmare Knights, it looked like Fang Chen was going on a leisurely walk with his guards. He didnt look imposing in the least.


    The hearts of Great Xias civilians sank.


    They didnt even prepare steeds


    Its futile even if they did. Those Nightmare Steeds can even kick a Ki Explosion martial artist to death! Normal steeds wouldnt be a match for them!


    Our Great Xias umtion isckingpared to Chillwater


    The crowd murmured.


    Ji Lengyue frowned. He gazed down on Fang Chen from his horse and asked, Young master Fang, your subordinates arent even wielding proper weapons. Are you really here for a military exercise?


    Fang Chen must have known that he doesnt stand a chance, so he didnt bother to prepare anything.


    Indeed. Nothing he did would make a difference.


    Great Xia still hasnt learned from its lesson five years ago.


    The envoys from the other three countries sneered.


    Xia Yu nced at Ye Qinghe, and thetter nodded. He ordered a eunuch to deliver tea to the Fang nsmen, including Li Daoye and Fang Cangyou.


    When Li Daoye saw the cup of tea, he remembered Fang Chens instruction and put it aside without any hesitation. There was no way he was going to drink it.


    Xia Yu was disappointed to see that. He wouldnt be able to get rid of Li Daoye if thetter didnt drink the tea, and the Fang n would remain a threat to him.


    I dont need weapons to deal with you, Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    You dont need weapons? Ji Lengyue nced at Li Daoye, who was sitting on the tform, before turning back to Fang Chen. You might have the backing of a cultivator, but he isnt going to participate in the military exercise. What makes you so confident?


    Give it a try then. Fang Chen chuckled.


    Very well. Ji Lengyue sneered.


    Inner ki far surpassing that of Ki Manifestation martial artists gushed from his body and wrapped itself around his body like armor, protecting him from head to toe. Even his steed was enveloped by the inner ki too.


    He looked like a deity surrounded by a halo.


    There were three realms to martial artistsHuman Profound, Earth Profound, and Heaven Profound. Earth Profound realm could be divided into four stages, namely first stage Aureate Aura, second stage Primal Aura, third stage Origin Aura, and fourth stage Longevity Aura.


    Aureate Aura martial cultivators could manifest their inner ki and harden it like metal, granting them superhuman defense. A Human Profound martial artist wouldnt stand a chance against them at all.


    Thats the legendary first stage Aureate Aura of Earth Profound realm!


    Exmations could be heard from the tform.


    Even for Great Xias officials and generals, this was their first time seeing an Earth Profound martial artist. The Aureate Aura surrounding Ji Lengyue verified that he had indeed achieved a level no Great Xia martial artist had reached for centuries despite his young age.


    Its rumored that Aureate Aura martial artists are invincible even when against tens of thousands of enemies. They can dive into the heart of an enemy army and still escape unscathed!


    And Chillwater has more than one of such martial artists


    Chillwater just has to dispatch ten Aureate Aura martial artists, and itll be able to destroy any grade-9 state


    Prime Minister Li Guozhu was more focused on internal affairs, devoting most of his time and energy on improving the livelihood of the popce and maintaining power bnce inside the imperial court.


    But after witnessing Ji Lengyues prowess, he began worrying about Great Xias future. <em>How will Great Xia fare in the future after offending such a powerful superior state?</em>


    Great Xias martial artists were also astounded by the sight before them, and their eyes gleamed with admiration. Ji Lengyue might not be from Great Xia, but martial cultivation went beyond borders.


    Someone who had attained a high level of martial cultivation deserved respect.


    A martial artist who has reached such a level transcends imperial authority Tao Yu murmured.


    A schr, no matter how well educated, couldnt hope to suppress a martial artist of such caliber with their tongue.


    Do you see that, Jade Fairy? War God Fang might be formidable, but hesckingpared to Ji Lengyue the young scion standing near Jade Fairy shook his head as hemented.


    Jade Fairy didnt say a word, but disdain shed across her eyes. Ji Lengyue might look formidable now, but even she could subdue him with her Purple Lightning Talisman, let alone Fang Chen! She was looking forward to the tables being turned on Ji Lengyue.


    Ji Lengyues show of power won over most of the people present. Great Xias youths looked admiringly at the aureate aura shrouding him.


    Did Great Xia really have the means to deal with an expert of such caliber?


    They turned their sights to Fang Chen.


    Young master Fang, I heard that youre Great Xias number one martial artist. Why dont we start with a spar between the two of us first? Ji Lengyue said.


    The crowd first looked at the seemingly divine Ji Lengyue, followed by the unseeming Fang Chen who stood with his eyes closed, and they shook their heads. A Ki Manifestation martial artist against an Aureate Aura martial artist; this was not a battle but a one-sided ughter.


    Sure. A spar between themanders should rouse the soldiers morale. Fang Chen nodded with a smile.


    The crowd felt cold sweat on their backs when they heard Fang Chen readily epting the challenge. It didnt boost their morale either when he strolled toward the mounted Ji Lengyue. <em>Ji Lengyue has a steed whereas Fang Chen is on his feet. How is this a battle at all?</em>


    Ji Lengyue quietly stared at Fang Chen. A smile emerged on his face, and his steed suddenly charged forth like a bolt of lightning. The earth shook ever so slightly under his horses hooves.


    Everyones eyes were on Ji Lengyue. Fang Chen had be so small to them that he wasnt worthy of their vision anymore. Ji Lengyue and his steed leaped across the air like a deity.


    The steeds hooves were aimed at Fang Chen; Ji Lengyue nned to trample him to death!


    Ah! The crowd gasped.


    Time seemed to have slowed down in this instant.


    Boom!


    There was a loud explosion. The steed appeared to have stepped on something hard, causing its hooves to fracture before they could reach Fang Chen.


    Before the crowd could grasp what was going on, Fang Chen pressed his palm on Ji Lengyues chest.


    Ji Lengyues aureate aura immediately shattered, and his divine halo vanished without a trace. He was sent flying from his horse while spurting blood. Eventually, he crashed heavily before his Nightmare Knights.


    The steed that had its hooves fractured didnt have time to react before Fang Chen struck his palm on its head, and its massive body of over a thousand kilograms was sent flying over two hundred meters away. It fell onto the floor and becamepletely still.


    Despite the incredible feat he had just performed, Fang Chens breathing remained as calm as ever. He didnt even open his eyes from the start to the end. He chuckled softly and remarked, Thats all Earth Profound realm amounts to.


    The crowd finally snapped out of their daze. Shock and disbelief could be seen in their eyes.

 Chapter 113: You’re Going to Murder?

    Chapter 113: You¡¯re Going to Murder?


    Fang Chen has reached Earth Profound realm?


    The officials of Great Xias imperial court were taken aback. The emperor leaned forward before slowly resting back on his chair. There was a hint of astonishment reflected in his eyes.


    The surrounding soldiers let out shocked exims. What they had just witnessed reyed over and over again in their heads. The fact that Fang Chen defeated Ji Lengyue with a single palm strike meant that he had to at least be an Aureate Aura martial artist too.


    Does this mean our Great Xia has an Earth Profound martial artist too?


    As expected of War God Fang. He really is our Great Xias number one martial artist!


    Lets see if Longdu and Greenpine dares to act arrogantly anymore!


    The crowd was overjoyed. This was wonderful news to them.


    Jade Fairy nced at the young scion and cidly asked, What about now? Do you still think War God Fang doesnt stand a chance?


    The young scion was taken aback. There was a few seconds of silence before he replied, I didnt expect War God Fang to be an Earth Profound martial artist but the hundred Nightmare Knights havent made their moves yet. Im afraid it would be difficult for him to single-handedly turn the tables around


    Jade Fairy chuckled. Continue watching then.


    On the tform, the envoys from Longdu, Guhe, and Yizhou exchanged shocked looks. They could have never imagined that Fang Chen had reached Earth Profound realm; this was huge news that would shake the power bnce in the region.


    Even if Guhe, Yizhou, and Longdu had hidden Ki Manifestation martial artists in their ranks, those meant nothing against an Earth Profound martial artist. They were still feeling a sense of superiority over Great Xia due to the crushing defeat Great Xia suffered five years ago, but they dared not to think that way anymore.


    Now that Great Xia had an Earth Profound martial artist in its rank, its military prowess was ahead of the nearby grade-9 states by leaps and bounds. In fact, if a few more Earth Profound martial artists were to appear in Great Xia, it could even advance to be a grade-8 state.


    Even if it was the weakest grade-8 state, it would still be a force to be reckoned with. Grade-9 states would have to think twice before messing with them.


    They could have never imagined there would be such a development for this military exercise.


    In contrast, Great Xiasmanders were so overjoyed that their breathing hastened. Most officials also understood the significance of Great Xia having an Earth Profound martial artist, and their faces reddened in excitement.


    Theres hope for Great Xia!


    No wonder War God Fang dared to purge the Greenpine Superior Dojo; it turns out he has already reached Earth Profound realm! The tribtion he previously faced must have built him up as a martial artist, allowing him to make a breakthrough!


    Only a prodigy like War God Fang could reach such a level!


    Not bad, not bad. The Fifth King chuckled as he stroked his beard.


    Minister of Justice Jiang Yushu smiled.


    However, Tao Mingsheng and the others couldnt bring themselves to smile. They were afraid that Fang Chen would get back at them for suppressing him in the past.


    Earth Profound realm I thought that I could at least curb him a little once I make a breakthrough to Ki Manifestation Xiao Shence shook his head bitterly.


    Yan Beihan noticed his expression and sighed. He also had the same thought in mind.


    They felt despaired. No matter how hard they worked, the distance between Fang Chen and them continued to expand instead of narrowing. At this rate, they wouldnt even be able to see his silhouette anymore.


    <em>How are we supposed to catch up with a monster like that?</em>


    How can he be at Earth Profound realm? How can he be at Earth Profound realm?! This It shouldnt have been like that! Li Huafeng murmured with deranged eyes.


    He had recently advanced to Ki Control, and that sparked hopes that he might be able to exact vengeance on Fang Chen once he reached Ki Manifestation. Yet, his mortal enemy had taken another step forward to Earth Profound realm?


    Young master!


    The Nightmare Knights finally snapped out of their daze. A few of them got off their steeds to support Ji Lengyue. As they helped Ji Lengyue to his feet, thetter continued to spurt mouthful after mouthful of blood.


    Ji Lengyue had sustained severe internal injuries that shook his ki sea. Not only must he avoid using his aureate aura in the short run, but if he failed to properly heal up, his martial cultivation might just permanently stagnate at first stage Aureate Aura!


    <em>Thats all Earth Profound amounts to </em>


    Ji Lengyue thought about how Fang Chen had reduced him to his current state with a single palm strike, and that made his face scrunch up in humiliation.


    <em>Pah pah pah</em>


    Someone suddenly pped.


    This caught the attention of the crowd, and they turned their eyes over.


    Daoist Li, you must have yed a huge part behind that child reaching Earth Profound realm. You must have spent a lot of ki stones to nurture him? Immortal Zuo continued apuding as he rose to his feet and looked at Li Daoye with a faint smile.


    Indeed. Li Daoye nodded as he stered on his unfathomable expert smile. Do you have a problem with that?


    Only sect disciples like Daoist Li would squander ki stones on a martial artist. A wandering cultivator like me can never bear to do so. Immortal Zuo sighed. Daoist Li, it pains me to see you squandering your wealth away. Why dont you leave your ki stones and artifacts with me instead?


    Those in the upper echelons understood the connotations behind those words. Immortal Zuo was actually a cultivator!


    Great Xias emperor was rmed. He looked at Ji Congyun, and his face turned grim.


    Are you robbing me in broad daylight now? Li Daoye sneered.


    Youre a mere third stage Ki Refinement cultivator. Hand over all your items if you wish to live. Ill spare your life on the ount that were both cultivators, Immortal Zuo coldly replied.


    Do you take me for a fool? My father will skin you alive if you dont kill me! Li Daoye scoffed.


    Killing intent shed across Immortal Zuos eyes. With a soft chuckle, he turned to Ji Congyun and said, Little Brother Ji, it was a good decision toe to Great Xia. Ill be obtaining a bit of ki stones from them, whereas you learned in advance that someone in Great Xia has advanced to Earth Profound realm. It might have brought trouble to your Chillwater if you wereter by a few years.


    Indeed. Ji Congyun nodded with a smile.


    That child is only at third stage Ki Refinement. He should be weaker than you. I cant be bothered to make a move, so Ill leave him to you, Immortal Zuo said.


    Ji Congyuns face stiffened. He couldnt believe that the immortal they worshiped was so careful as to be unwilling to personally deal with a mere third stage Ki Refinement cultivator!


    Youre sending a martial artist after me? How dare you make light of me?! Li Daoye roared.


    A pinnacle Earth Profound martial artist is more than enough to kill you, Immortal Zuo replied.


    While spirit ki was superior to inner ki, a third stage Ki Refinement cultivator was still far too weak to hold its own against a pinnacle Earth Profound martial artist. If there was a significant disparity in strength, inner ki could still ovee spirit ki.


    Why dont you wait for the military exercise to end first before making a move? Li Daoye suddenly calmed down and leisurely remarked.


    The military exercise? Immortal Zuo nced at Fang Chen and his guards. Their oue has already been decided. Youre stalling for time but I have time to spare, so lets get ahead with it then.


    Ji Congyun turned to the Nightmare Knights. Thetter caught the drift andunched a charge at Fang Chen and his guards.


    The officials of Great Xias imperial court were no longer as excited as they were before. Instead, their hearts were now heavy. To think that the Ji n had a cultivator, and the other party was nning to make a move on Great Xia!


    At this rate, Fang Chen and Li Daoye were going to be killed today


    Just then, purple shes suddenly bombarded the eyes of the crowd.


    Countless lightning bolts surged forward and electrocuted the Nightmare Knights. In a matter of seconds, the energetic Nightmare Knights were all reduced to charred corpses.


    The terrifying pulsations of spirit ki sent a shudder down Immortal Zuos spine. He eximed in horror, Purple Lightning Talismans?!


    The military exercise has ended. Fang Chen looked at Immortal Zuo with a smile. You can do what you want now. You were nning on killing us and taking our treasures earlier?

 Chapter 114: Advancing to Grade-8

    Chapter 114: Advancing to Grade-8


    Only cultivators could sense spirit ki.


    Even a pinnacle Earth Profound martial artist like Ji Congyun was unable to sense spirit ki, not even in the slightest. Immortal Zuo understood just how devastating those purple lightning bolts were, which was why he fell in a daze.


    There were also many others who were stupefied too.


    Such as the officials of Great Xias imperial court.


    Such as Great Xias civilians.


    Such as Longdu, Guhe, and Yizhous envoys.


    It was such an unbelievable sight that their brains stalled to a halt.


    A hundred Nightmare Knights were instantaneously destroyed by purple streaks of lightning? Their first thought that surfaced in their heads was whether this was divine retribution, but they quickly snapped out of it.


    Those purple lightning bolts didnte from the sky but the hands of the Fang Manors guards. They were the culprits behind this devastation!


    Its the Purple Lightning Palm! someone eximed.


    Fang Chen had previously killed amander of the Greenpines Wolf Army in the imperial pce and imed that he had used a martial art called Purple Lightning Palm. This matter had spread since then, so there were quite a few people who knew about this.


    Even so, they struggled toprehend how these pinnacle Ki Control Nightmare Knights could have died so helplessly.


    What terrifying means! When did he build up such a powerful force Li Guozhus hands wouldnt stop trembling as he looked at the Fang Manors guards with fearful eyes.


    If his eyes werent ying tricks on him, what he had just witnessed effectively meant that the Fang Manors guards were stronger than any of Great Xias armies. To think that, a while back, the emperor issued a decree banning Fang Chen from ever taking charge of an army


    Looking back at it now, that decree was nothing but a joke.


    Xia Yu, Tao Yu, Ye Qinghe, and the others were horrified. Todays developments far surpassed their wildest imagination.


    This is impossible Ji Lengyue fell to his knees.


    He had only survived because he didnt charge alongside his Nightmare Knights. His eyes reddened as he looked at the charred corpses lying on the ground.


    <em>These Nightmare Knights have been with me for many years, but they died in the hands of the Fang Manors guards just like that? The lightning I saw earlier Those are clearly a cultivators means, but how could the Fang Manors guards possess a cultivators means?</em>


    <em>This is impossible!</em>


    <em>I must be seeing things!</em>


    Ji Lengyue rubbed his eyes in disbelief, but the charred corpses remained. His face slowly turned ghastly pale. He copsed to the ground as if someone had siphoned his energy, and he stared at Fang Chen with dazed eyes.


    Arent you going to move? Fang Chen asked Immortal Zuo.


    Those words dragged Immortal Zuo back to reality. He stiffly turned his head over to look at Fang Chen with uncertain eyes.


    <em>Thats the Purple Lightning Talisman, an extremely popr talisman in the world of cultivation! Its value, to Ki Refinement cultivators, isparable to that of an artifact. </em>


    <em>Purple Lightning Talismans are divided into four gradeslow, mid, high, and pinnacle. I dont know what grade the Purple Lightning Talismans they used were, but even a single low-grade Purple Lightning Talisman is already worth a few ki stones!</em>


    Even though Immortal Zuo was a sixth stage Ki Refinement cultivator worshiped by the Ji n, he had only managed to save 13 low-grade ki stones over the years, after spending the rest on furthering his cultivation.


    At least a hundred Purple Lightning Talismans must have been consumed to create the earlier lightning bombardment. That was hundreds of ki stones going down the drain!


    The thought of that filled Immortal Zuos eyes with fear. <em>Whats their background to squander hundreds of low-grade ki stones to kill a hundred mortal martial artists? This is madness! What if those Purple Lightning Talismans were aimed at me instead?</em>


    Immortal Zuo shuddered. An amicable smile instantaneously appeared on his face, and he sped his fist toward Fang Chen and Li Daoye and said, I was just joking earlier. Please dont take it to heart.


    Joking? Is this something to joke about? Li Daoye snorted. Do you think Id let you talk your way out of this after the threat you made?


    Immortal Zuos face darkened. He hurriedly telepathically ryed his voice to Ji Congyun, Cover my escape. Well n our next move once we return to Chillwater!


    Upon hearing those words, Ji Congyun immediately leaped away from Immortal Zuo.


    You cowardly scum! Immortal Zuo cursed.


    He quickly turned tail and fled. His movement skill was superior to that of martial artists, as he could even temporarily flit across the air. It took a mere moment for him to flit several hundred meters away.


    Is he an immortal?!


    The ignorant civilians were stunned by that sight.


    Thats the means of a cultivator the officials of Great Xias imperial court murmured under their breath.


    Compared to Ji Lengyues earlier leap, Immortal Zuos movement skill resembled a deitys feat more.


    Just as the crowd thought Immortal Zuo would gracefully depart from the scene, dozens of lightning bolts suddenly crackled in unison. All of them consecutively struck Immortal Zuo.


    There was a howl of agony before his charred body plummeted into the dense jungle below.


    A few figures discreetly flitted into the forest to confirm Immortal Zuos death before carrying his corpse and possessions away.


    Those seated on the tform were startled. All of them turned to Fang Chen. There was no doubt that the dozens of lightning bolts that had appeared out of nowhere was his doing.


    Elder Ji, what do you think of my guards? Will they be able to stand their ground against Chillwaters hundred thousand Nightmare Knights? Fang Chen looked at Ji Congyun with a casual smile.


    <em>Elder Ji?!</em>


    It finally dawned on the crowd that Ji Congyun was someone important, though the fact that he was the Ji ns Old Master still eluded them. They merely thought that he was an influential figure in the Ji n.


    Of course. Ji Congyun nodded with a strained smile.


    Do you think our Great Xia is worthy of being deemed a grade-8 state? Fang Chen asked.


    <em>Grade-8 state? </em>


    The crowd gasped. They could fathom what Fang Chens goal was!


    A single Earth Profound martial artist wouldnt be enough but the means you have disyed qualifies Great Xia as a grade-8 state. Ji Congyun slowly nodded.


    Boom!


    The crowd was shocked.


    The officials of Great Xias imperial court traded gazes, and slowly, their bodies began trembling in excitement. They sensed that they were about to witness history in the making.


    The civilians did a sharp intake in breath too as they stared fixedly at Fang Chen.


    Let it be known that our Great Xia is a grade-8 state from this day on, Fang Chen calmly dered. Elder Ji, Ill trouble you to inform your emperor that Great Xia wont be Chillwaters vassal state anymore.


    I will. Ji Congyun nodded.


    Also now that Great Xia is a grade-8 state, its only right for us to have vassal states too. Longdu, Guhe, and Yizhou shall be our vassal states from now on, Fang Chen said.


    This Im afraid this matter requires further discussion with our emperor. Ji Congyun was stunned by Fang Chens greediness.


    Longdu, Guhe, and Yizhous envoys turned pale too. They couldnt imagine how miserable their lives would be if they became Great Xias vassal states.


    Theres no need for that. This is not up for negotiation. Fang Chen smiled at Ji Congyun.


    Ji Congyun fell silent. Momentster, he slowly nodded. All right.


    The officials of Great Xias imperial court were stunned. They couldnt believe that they had advanced to grade-8 state just like that, and they even gained three vassals right off the bat!


    Milord The three envoys anxiously looked at Ji Congyun.


    Ji Congyun paid no heed to them. Chillwater had plenty of other vassal states, so losing these three wouldnt hurt them much.


    Young master Fang, is there anything else youd like to say? My grandson is severely injured. Ill have to take him away for treatment, Ji Congyun politely asked.


    I have nothing else for you. As for Ji Lengyun Ill be keeping him here as a hostage from your Ji n. Elder Ji, you may leave now, Fang Chen said.


    <em>What?! Hes keeping Ji Lengyun here as a hostage?</em>


    The crowd was bbergasted. Only Fang Chen would dare to do something this bold. Yet, for some reason, they felt inexplicablyforted by this.


    All right.


    Without any hesitation, Ji Congyun turned around and left.


    He knows when to bow his head. Fang Chen chuckled.

 Chapter 115: Xia Imperial Duke

    Chapter 115: Xia Imperial Duke


    Ji Congyun was long gone, but the tform remained deathly silent.


    <em>Did Great Xia really be a grade-8 state just like that?</em>


    The crowd felt light on their feet as if they were in a dream.


    Xia Yu stared at Fang Chen in a daze. He had made up his mind to lead Great Xia to ovee its bottleneck and be a grade-8 state, so that it could stand on par with Chillwater. Yet, his great ambitions were fulfilled by someone else before he could be the emperor?


    The officials of the imperial court were trembling with excitement, but theyposed themselves to maintain the poise of a powerful state. From time to time, they would eye the Longdu, Guhe, and Yizhous envoys.


    The three envoys felt like they were sitting on needles. Every now and then, they would nce at Fang Chen with fear in their eyes.


    In contrast to the silent tform, the civilians below celebrated this joyous asion. Great Xia had be the weakest state in the region since its tragic defeat five years ago.


    Even Guhe, a state specialized in mining, would climb over their heads every now and then. Their schrs and martial artists walked on their streets with an air of superiority.


    Yet, Great Xia turned the tables on them within a single day.


    Not only did Fang Chen thoroughly crush Chillwaters Nightmare Knights, but he disyed exceptional means as a martial artist too. He even forced one of Chillwaters leading figures to acknowledge Great Xia as a grade-8 state and relinquish three of their vassal states to them.


    Great Xia had never achieved such feats even at its peak!


    How could Great Xias civilians not be excited? From this day onward, they would be Longdu, Guhe, and Yizhous superior state. Gone were the days where they had to endure their scorn!


    The crowd looked at Fang Chen with eyes filled with respect, be it the ordinary popce, martial artists, schrs, or the Great Xia Shadow Guards.


    Its our Great Xias blessing to have someone like War God Fang!


    Great Xias emperor had a beaming smile too. War God Fang, I hereby confer you as transcendent-grade Xia Imperial Duke, and this position will be inherited by your descendants. On top of that, Ill bestow you with 10,000 golden taels and 2,000 fine pearls!


    <em>Transcendent-grade Xia Imperial Duke?</em>


    The officials of the imperial court were shaken by that announcement.


    Since the founding of Great Xia, there hadnt been a person who was conferred a transcendent-grade nobility. The founding emperor of Great Xia had famously dered that anyone who made Great Xia a grade-8 state would be conferred the title of Imperial Duke Xia. This was not a military position, but it equaled the emperor in terms of standing.


    For centuries, countless outstanding individuals had contributed to Great Xia in all kinds of ways to raise its national prowess, but none had seeded in making Great Xia a grade-8 state.


    It was simply too difficult a feat to pull off.


    Yet, Fang Chen managed to pull it off.


    So, the emperor fulfilled the founding emperors promise and conferred a transcendent-grade nobility to him, and this position could be passed down through his lineage. With this, the Fang n had be the most prestigious family in Great Xia aside from the imperial family.


    Tao Mingsheng warmly congratted Fang Chen with a smile alongside the other officials, but unease and terror were reflected in the depths of his eyes.


    Xia Yu was also taken aback by his fathers deration.


    Five years ago, Fang Chen became Great Xias youngest grade-1 general, putting him on the same pedestal as Prime Minister Li Guozhu. That was a rank higher than even the Ministers of the Six Bureaus!


    He was far beyond the reach of his peers in the capital, and most thought that they would never surpass his aplishment.


    But Fang Chens defeat in the Three Realms Mountain resulted in him being stripped of his position, and he was ordered to remain at home to reflect on himself. The Fang Faction that had formed around him naturally dissolved.


    Many thought that Fang Chen would live his life out like that after losing his official position, going blind, and having his ki sea crippled. Yet


    After five short years of silence, Fang Chen finally raised a ripple. The ripple slowly grew bigger and bigger until it was so thunderous that it dizzied others.


    Transcendent-grade Xia Imperial Duke! How noble that position was! Even Xia Yu, despite being the crown prince, would have to bow to Fang Chen as a junior from this day onward


    Young miss War God Fang has been conferred as an imperial duke! On top of that, hes conferred with the Xia character! Fang Qingyaos maid eximed with a reddened face.


    Mm! Fang Qingyao nodded in excitement.


    She was apanied by famous merchants in the capital, including Li Maocai.


    Li Maocai was excited by the news too, knowing he could reap benefits from having once gifted Fang Chen a valuable weapon.


    Thanks to Imperial Duke Fang, itll be much safer for us to do business now!


    Of course, Longdu, Guhe, and Yizhou are now our vassal states! Lets see if they dare harm any more of our merchants!


    But what if they dont ept it


    Imperial Duke Fang will destroy them!


    Fang Chen looked at the emperor. Secondster, he sped his fist and replied, Im grateful for your conferment, Your Majesty.


    <em>Just like that?</em>


    Fang Chens impassive startled the officials, who were just joyously congratting him.


    The emperor squeezed out a smile and said, Theres no need to stand on ceremony, Imperial Duke Fang. Ill have a ceremonial court robe delivered to your Fang Manor, so


    Theres no need for a court robe. Im content with being a carefree duke, Fang Chen replied with a smile. The imperial court doesnt suit me.


    The emperor was taken aback. Li Guozhu and the others also looked at Fang Chen with perplexed frowns. The Fang Chen they knew five years ago wasnt like that.


    Back then, Fang Chens voice was the loudest in the imperial court. Even the emperor would have to carefully consider his words before replying. Yet, the same Fang Chen was giving such a cid response despite being granted such great power and prestige?


    <em>Is he feigning disinterest to get more out of this? Or is he truly not interested?</em> The crowd wondered.


    Speaking of which Fang Chen smiled at the emperor. I dont think that Xiao Shence is suited to continue being the Valiant Defendersmander. Your Majesty, what do you think?


    A wave of shock crashed on the crowd. They struggled to keep up with Fang Chens tempo. <em>Why is he suddenly making a move on Xiao Shence? Thats His Majestys aide!</em>


    While Prime Minister Li Guozhu and his faction often impeached Xiao Shence, highlighting his ipetence in keeping his subordinates in line, they would never dare im that he was not fit to be the Valiant Defendersmander.


    Xiao Shence was the emperors aide, after all. Anyone who tried to take him down would inevitably draw the emperors ire and might even be suspected of harboring rebellious thoughts.


    Yet, Fang Chen said those words out loud. The atmosphere on the tform turned tense.


    Many emotions flickered across Xiao Shences face. Before the emperor could speak, he sped his fist toward Fang Chen and said, Imperial Duke Fang, I brought my men into the Fang Manor back then because


    Liu Tian colluded with Vice Minister Qin under Xiao Shences nose and indirectly caused the death of countless Great Xias civilians. Liu Tian has escaped, but I believe Xiao Shence ought to take responsibility for his ipetence. Your Majesty, what do you think?


    The crowd was dumbstruck.


    <em>Hes dealing with Xiao Shence over this, and not because Xiao Shence brought his men into the Fang Manor to arrest the Fang n?</em>


    The emperors smile slowly faded. Imperial Duke Fang, who would you suggest I rece Commander Xiao with?


    Xiao Shences face paled. The officials of the imperial court stared at Fang Chen as they wondered what he was thinking.


    Your Majesty, what do you think about Huang Sihai? Fang Chen smiled.


    <em>Huang Sihai? The man who used to be one of Fang Chens Four Dragon Generals?</em>


    The crowd frowned.


    <strong>Starves trivia about Xia Imperial Duke</strong>


    In ancient China, when a person is conferred a high noble, they are often conferred with a character too. This character usually signifies certain traits or have historical meaning.


    The character Fang Chen was bestowed with, Xia, is the imperial familys family name.


    Thats a huge thing, as anyone else using the imperial familys family name for anything could have been easily executed for sacrilege. This conferment is almost saying that The imperial family considers Fang Chen one of our own


    As for transcendent-grade, it means that, officially, his standing is even higher than the Prime Minister.

 Chapter 116: Fang Chen, Are You Staging a Rebellion?

    Chapter 116: Fang Chen, Are You Staging a Rebellion?


    Imperial Duke Fang, Im afraid this is not appropriate. His Majesty has his reasons for cing people in their respective positions. You might be the imperial duke, but this is not a matter you should interfere with Li Guozhu spoke up.


    He was Great Xias prime minister, after all. His standing might be beneath Fang Chen, but he had built up significant influence in Great Xia over the years. His willingness to intervene made many of the officials breathe a sigh of relief.


    Xiao Shencesplexion slightly improved too.


    All of them thought that Fang Chen was already bordering on sphemy.


    <em>He actually tried to rece the emperors aide with his own, and he did it so openly too This is no different from staging a rebellion!</em>


    Such a thought was on everyones mind, but no one dared to bring it out in the open. They feared that pointing it out might throw Great Xias future into uncertainty.


    Prime Minister Li, Fang Chen called out. This course of action is to Great Xias benefit. Ill do whatever is beneficial to Great Xia. Great Xia belongs to the people as well, not just His Majesty. Sometimes, theres no choice but for His Majesty to take a step back.


    Atrocious! How can you utter such sphemous words! Some of the older officials couldnt tolerate it anymore and pointed a trembling finger at Fang Chen.


    The generals present remained silent, though they asionally exchanged nces.


    The emperor turned livid. Years in the imperial court had taught him how to conceal his emotions and thoughts, but he struggled to maintain his poker face after hearing Fang Chens words.


    Xia Yu even reddened in anger. <em>What is Fang Chen trying to do here? Great Xia belongs to our Xia n! This has been a fact from the moment Great Xia was founded!</em>


    Enough, the emperor said. Xiao Shence has indeed been ipetent in his duties. I hereby dismiss him as the Valiant Defendersmander. Huang Sihai will take his ce instead.


    The crowd fell silent.


    Tao Mingsheng had begun trembling. <em>Xiao Shence has failed to keep his subordinate in line, but its the same for me too. Qin Dong is the Vice Minister of Rites, my direct subordinate </em>


    Imperial Duke Fang, are there any more suggestions youd like to make? the emperor asked with a smile.


    Your Majesty, when do you n on holding the Third Princes funeral? Fang Chen asked.


    <em>The Third Princes funeral? Are the rumors true?</em>


    The crowd was taken aback. <em>Was it due to Fang Chen purging the Greenpine martial artists that Greenpine had the Third Prince killed out of vengeance?</em>


    Xia Yu stared fixedly at Fang Chen, as if trying to see through his intentions.


    Fang Imperial Duke Fang, are the rumors true? the emperor grimly asked.


    Yes, Your Majesty. The Third Prince has died for Great Xia. Fang Chen nodded.


    Imperial Duke Fang, my Third Brother wouldnt have died such a pitiful death if not for you! Xia Yu suddenly cried out.


    Fang Chen had disyed overwhelming power, and the Fang Manors guards had even massacred hundred Nightmare Knights with ease. Even the Ji ns cultivator had died in his hands.


    Yet, Xia Yu still stood up to criticize Fang Chen at this juncture?


    A lot of the older officials looked heartened. <em>At least our crown prince dares to speak up. </em>


    Indeed. You should have been the hostage instead. Even I am in awe of the Third Princes governance ability. His death is truly a pity. Fang Chen smiled.


    Xia Yu looked as if someone had stuffed dog shit down his throat. His face nearly turned green.


    The officials of the imperial court, however, were already ustomed to Fang Chens way of speaking. This was how he had rendered them speechless on the imperial court five years ago.


    Seeing that Xia Yu dared not squeak anymore, Fang Chen turned to the three envoys and said, What are your names? Forget that, its not important. Return home and tell your lieges that your countries will be our vassals from this day onward. If anyone has anyints, do ry them to me. Ill personally pay them a visit to convince them.


    The envoys were just about to introduce themselves, only to hear that Fang Chen wasnt interested in knowing their names at all. The tantck of respect made them redden in anger.


    Also, whatever you have been paying to Chillwater before, you shall double that for us. Shortchange us by ten percent, and well take a city of yours. Shortchange us by thirty percent, and well wipe your country off the face of the world, Fang Chen said.


    The three envoys gasped. <em>You want us to double our tribute for you, and youre threatening violence if we fail to obey? This is too much!</em>


    As infuriated as they were, they had no choice but to lower their heads out of fear of Fang Chens means. They didnt even dare to meet Fang Chen in the eye, fearing that thetter would find an excuse to kill them.


    Its gettingte. You should quickly return and ry the message. Make sure to send the tribute over as soon as possible, Fang Chen said with a casual wave of his hands.


    The envoys were sent away as if they were mere flies. Without daring to leave behind a threat, they awkwardly left with their elite troops.


    If we double the tribute of those three states Li Guozhu murmured contemtively before his eyes suddenly lit up. That would at least add a few million taels to our treasury each year!


    The officials snapped out of the incident involving Xiao Shence, and their eyes gleamed in excitement when they realized just how wealthy their country was going to be.


    Even Great Xias annual tax ie was only a few million taels!


    Through the tribute of their three vassal states, they would be able to slowly recover from the huge setback they had suffered five years ago. It wouldnt take long for them to revert to their previous state.


    <em>No! Well be even more prosperous than before, especially since we are now a grade-8 state!</em>


    Imperial Duke Fang, theres something Id like to ask you, the emperor suddenly spoke up.


    The crowd quickly turned to the emperor.


    Your Majesty, please speak your mind, Fang Chen replied.


    A grade-9 state advancing to grade-8 will require not just the agreement of Chillwater but the other nearby superior states too. If the others dont agree to it, it would be in vain, the emperor said.


    What reason do they have to oppose our promotion? Will they dare to oppose our promotion? Fang Chen replied.


    The crowd was startled. <em>What domineering words! Fang Chen must be confident about this!</em>


    That would be for the best. There are other matters I''d like to discuss with Imperial Duke Fang, so Ill have to ask you to follow me back to the imperial pce, the emperor said with a nod.


    The emperor and the officials left under the escort of the guards. The civilians were still immersed in what had happened, and they excitedly chatted with one another while making their way back to the city.


    The severely wounded Ji Lengyue hadnt been forgotten either. The Valiant Defenders threw him onto a carriage and brought him to their inner citys barracks.


    In the Imperial Library, the emperor looked at Fang Chen lividly and bellowed, Fang Chen, are you trying to stage a rebellion here?!


    The eunuch and maids standing outside were horrified by the bellow. Yan Beihan, who was standing at the entrance, was taken aback as well. He nearly rushed into the Imperial Library, though he held himself back in the end.


    What makes you say so, Your Majesty? Id have rebelled long ago if I wanted to. Theres no need for me to wait to this day, Fang Chen calmly replied.


    The emperor paced around the room while seething with rage. In the end, he stopped in front of Fang Chen and stared at him, as if to verify if he was truly blind or not. If you arent nning on staging a rebellion, why did you coerce me into dismissing Xiao Shence. Hes my aide! Why do you keep putting me in a spot before the officials of the imperial court? Fang Chen, you should remember that Im your uncle too! My empress is your aunt!

 Chapter 117: A Mishap in the Southern Region

    Chapter 117: A Mishap in the Southern Region


    Faced with the emperors questions, Fang Chen replied with aposed smile, Your Majesty, please calm down. I am doing this for Great Xias sake.


    Youre telling me to calm down? The emperor beganughing out of sheer rage. Why dont you look at it from my perspective? I am Great Xias emperor, and yet you put me in a spot time and time again before my officials! Am I the emperor, or are you the emperor? Why dont I give the throne to you instead? Ill retire with your aunt and quietly live our lives in the countryside!


    Fang Chen smiled. Im not interested in bing the emperor. There is too much hassle thates with it, and it might even shorten my lifespan.


    The emperor was speechless.


    There was a moment of silence before he asked, Fang Chen, why dont you tell me whats on your mind? I offered to give you a court robe, but you refused it. Do you think that its beneath you to be a Great Xias official?


    Your Majesty, Id have been happy to share your burden with you five years ago. I did enjoy squabbling with others in the imperial court. However, things are different now. I can do my part for Great Xia without going through the imperial court, so I dont want to go through the hassle. Otherwise, your officials will be busy thinking of ways to impeach me out of fear. Id rather they focus their efforts on helping the people, Fang Chen replied.


    Is that really what you think? The emperor frowned.


    Your Majesty, you can believe what you want, but thats what Ill be doing. Fang Chen smiled. If theres nothing else, Ill be taking my leave.


    Fine. You may leave. The emperor nodded.


    Shortly after Fang Chen left, an old eunuch slowly approached the Imperial Library with a few younger eunuchs supporting him. When Eunuch You saw the old eunuch, he hurriedly ran over and eximed, Old ancestor, what brings you here today?


    Im here to meet His Majesty. The rest of you arent needed here. Excuse yourselves. The old eunuch pulled his arms back from the younger eunuch and tidied himself up before entering the Imperial Library.


    Eunuch You was perplexed.


    This old eunuch was an old veteran in the imperial pce, having served three generations of emperors. However, he went into retirement shortly after the incumbent emperor ascended to the throne. Counting back, he had to be at least a hundred years of age by now.


    Perhaps even the old ancestor was rmed upon learning that Great Xia has been promoted to grade-8. Imperial Duke Fang is truly a monster to have achieved what others failed to do over centuries in just a single day. Even now, I still wonder if its a dream, Eunuch You murmured.


    In the Imperial Library, the old eunuch bowed with his trembling body, Long live your Majesty.


    The emperor looked at the old eunuch and said, You may rise. I just question Fang Chen, and he doesnt seem to be nning on staging a rebellion. Rather, he appears to view this throne of mine as a burden.


    Your Majesty, its best not to let your guard down. Imperial Duke Fang is young and reckless. Hes more likely to step out of ce than Fang Zhentian, the old eunuch said.


    Thats why I wanted to meet you today, the emperor replied. You have been serving our Xia ns old ancestor since you were six years old. My old ancestor wasnt fond of dealing with secr matters; he was more interested in pursuing immortality. When he was in his thirties, he suddenly left and hasnt returned since. Answer medid our old ancestor be a cultivator?


    My master is indeed a cultivator. The old eunuch slowly nodded.


    What a pity! the emperor sneered. A cultivator was born from our Xia n, but he didnt leave behind any heritage, and he turned a blind eye to our Great Xias plight too. What do you think is on his mind? If my old ancestor was willing to lend a helping hand to Great Xia, we could have reached grade-8 or even grade-7 before Fang Chen was born!


    My master once said that the world of cultivation is fraught with dangers. If he lent a helping hand to Great Xia, it might draw his enemies attention over. That could have spelled a cmity for Great Xia. Other than that, he said that cultivation requires one to be free of secr affairs. Only by stepping out from the secr world can one advance as a cultivator.


    Great Xia has its fate ordained. He doesnt intend to interfere, and he cant afford to interfere either, the old eunuch replied.


    Is that the reason our ancestor only met you whenever he returned over the years? the emperor coldly asked.


    The old eunuch lowered his head.


    The circumstances are different from before. The Fang n has a cultivator backing them and Fang Chen is likely a cultivator too. Even a powerful martial artist can tower above a rulers authority, let alone a cultivator?


    The emperor looked intently at the old eunuch. I know you have a way to contact my old ancestor. Tell him that our Xia n is losing its grip on power, and we need him to return and hold the fort.


    Understood. The old eunuch nodded before shakily backing out of the Imperial Library.


    In the following days, the news that Great Xia was going to be promoted to grade-8 spread from the capital to the other provinces. The civilians were so excited to hear the news that even the Third Princes funeral wasnt as sorrowful anymore.


    Rather than the death of an imperial prince, they were much more interested about Great Xias promotion to grade-8 state.


    Fang Chen had depleted most of the spirit materials Li Daoye had brought back from Dragonback Lane, which meant another huge stack of talismans in his inventory.


    He kept a portion of it for himself and handed the remaining ones to Xu Ge, so that he could distribute it to the Great Xia Shadow Guards.


    Young master Fang, you should have kept those Purple Lightning Talismans with you. You can better draw out their prowess, Li Daoye remarked.


    Im but one person. If something happens, theres only so much I can handle at once. I have to make preparations in advance. If Abbess Clearlotus fails to bring her master over, well have no choice but to deal with the Blood Spirit Cults Foundation Establishment cultivator by ourselves, Fang Chen replied.


    Li Daoye sped his hand over his mouth. Young master Fang, you dont think Little Abbess will be able to convince her master?


    I cant guarantee that, Fang Chen replied.


    Shit! Li Daoye cursed. He thought that Fang Chen had revealed the existence of the Purple Lightning Talismans because he was confident of pulling this off.


    Who could have thought that Fang Chen wasnt confident at all!


    Its a Foundation Establishment cultivator were talking about here Their means are unfathomable. A couple of Ki Refinement cultivators like us wont be a match! Li Daoye said.


    A secondter, his eyes suddenly lit up. But again, its doubtful whether the Foundation Establishment cultivator wille here or not. I reckon they probably see Great Xia as nothing but an insignificant country.


    They have already concocted six Blood Spirit Divine Pills here. The chances are that they have Great Xia in their sight. Fang Chen shook his head.


    Why dont we run then? Young master Fang, its not wise to stand beneath a copsing wall. Why dont we return after you reach Foundation Establishment? Great Xia is currently a burden to you. It doesnt produce ki stones, and there are no spirit havens here Why dont we escape to Infernoze with your n? Li Daoye proposed.


    Shouldnt the goal of pursuing martial arts or cultivation be to protect ones homnd rather than to shake free of it? Fang Chen smiled.


    Li Daoye was rendered speechless. <em>How is it that there is a cultivator in the world with such a strong secr heart? This is a wonder in itself!</em>


    Young master, Yuan Zhuang requests an audience! Xu Ge suddenly rushed over and reported.


    Yuan Zhuang? They are back from the southern region? Fang Chen was surprised.


    Something bad happened, Xu Ge replied with a suppressed voice.


    Fang Chen nodded. Bring him in.


    Yuan Zhuang was covered in blood. His body was covered withrge and small wounds alike. Some of them had scabbed, whereas some appeared to be more recent. Clearly, he had rushed to the Fang Manor as soon as he arrived at the capital.


    Bad news, young master! The southern regions sects have encircled the Profound Saber Sect! Chiliarch Jue and the others are trapped in there too, Yuan Zhuang anxiously reported.

 Chapter 118: Migrating Southward

    Chapter 118: Migrating Southward


    Yuan Zhuang had been in the southern region, aiding Jue Panshi in cleansing the sects in the South Immortal Province. However, the tension arising from the massacre of the Heavensword Mountain Vi hadnt fully calmed down yet.


    Jue Panshi had announced that the culprit behind the massacre had been killed, but the sects maintain a skeptical attitude regarding the matter.


    To make things worse, the Valiant Defenders suddenly began purging the smaller sects, raiding their den, arresting their disciples, killing their elders, and exiling the others. This caused a huge stir in the pugilistic world.


    This prompted one of the southern regions Four Great Sects, Greatsword Gate, to step forward and rally the other sects together to demand an exnation from the Profound Saber Sect.


    As a result, the Profound Saber Sect had been encircled, and Jue Panshi and his subordinates were trapped inside. Yuan Zhuang was able to slip out, and he immediately rushed to the capital to inform Fang Chen of the matter.


    What about Carefree Pce? Fang Chen asked.


    Carefree Pce was one of the Four Great Sects, but they were an elusive group as their disciples appeared in public. Little was known about them.


    They havent made an appearance yet, Yuan Zhuang said with a suppressed voice.


    What are the other Valiant Defenders and local magistrates doing? One of the imperial courts officials is trapped in the Profound Saber Sect, but no one is stepping up? Fang Chen asked.


    Yes, all of them are lying low, Yuan Zhuang replied with a frown. They appear to have implicitly permitted Greatsword Gates doing. I suspect that the southern regions politics might be even moreplicated than we expected.


    I thought they would keep it down for now, but they jumped out faster than I anticipated. The minor sects we are dealing with must have infringed on their interests, prompting them to make a move, Fang Chen sneered. The southern region iscking in resources, and strong-arming is amon practice there. Its inevitable that officials dispatched there would have ties with the local sects. It looks like that ce has be rotten to the core.


    Young master, you knew this might happen? Yuan Zhuang was startled


    Fang Chen turned to Xu Ge and said, It has been a while since our Fang Manor went on a trip. Tell the Old Master and everyone else that well be heading to the southern region.


    Xu Ge was taken aback. <em>The entire manor? Does the young master n on migrating out of the capital?</em>


    Young master, we arent leaving some servants around to maintain the manor? Xu Ge asked.


    Its fine. You can call <em>them</em> over to help out, Fang Chen instructed.


    Xu Ges eyes narrowed as he caught Fang Chens drift. Thetter was nning to disguise the Great Xia Shadow Guards as the Fang Manors servants and maids.


    On the other hand, Li Daoye saw Fang Chens actions as preparation against the Blood Spirit Cults Foundation Establishment cultivator. Thetter was nning to first evacuate the Fang Manor from the capital lest they be taken as hostage.


    Young master Fang, this is for the best. Li Daoye nodded with a smile.


    Youll be staying in the Fang Manor, Fang Chen replied.


    What?! Li Daoye was startled.


    Four hourster, the Fang Army marched out of the capital as an army. Those living in the capital were taken aback by the sight, and they couldnt help but specte what was going on.


    The Fang n had let out word that they were going on a trip, but it was unthinkable that all of them would travel together. The nobles of the capital naturally reserved their doubts regarding the matter. However, they had no right to question the Fang n, and they dared not do so.


    Lad, the problems scourging the southern region were umted over a long period of time. I couldnt find a solution for it back then. What are your ns? Are you going to cleanse them in a single sweep? Fang Zhentian asked.


    Many soldiers in the capital were born in the southern region, and some of them were even disciples in the Four Great Sects in their younger years. Thisplicated web of rtionships made the southern region hard to deal with.


    Often, the capital would issue an order, only for it to take another meaning once it reached the southern region. However, there was nothing the capital could do about it. If they sent soldiers to suppress the southern region, they would risk a civil war.


    The bacsh would be severe.


    To put it inly, the capitals influence over the southern region paled inparison to the Four Great Sects. Officials who wanted to change the southern region often died in mysterious ways, their murderers never found. There was no way to find the culprits, as they could be anyone in the pugilistic world!


    Fang Zhentian had wanted to rein in the southern region in his younger years, but he had no choice but to give up due to the pressure from the imperial court and the southern region.


    The problem of the southern region lies with those sects. They have the advantage in their turf, so they dont fear even Ki Manifestation martial artists, Fang Chen replied. But the enemy they are up against now isnt just a Ki Manifestation martial artist. The best way to curb chaos is to move decisively, so that they dont have any chance to react.


    Many people in the military have intimate ties with the southern region. There will be chaos in the military if you touch the southern region. But again you just defeated Chillwater and raised Great Xia to a grade-8 state. With the prestige you have rued, those people will have to think twice before making a move, Fang Zhentian replied contemtively.


    He added, Those people are still in shock over what happened, so this is the ideal opportunity to make a move. If we give them some time to recover, their fear will lessen. Some of them are obstinate fools. They might choose to rather go down than to surrender to us.


    Fang Chen nodded with a smile. I have another thought in mind too. The chilled spirit spring water I brought back a few days agoes from the southern region. Most sects in the world of cultivation have a spirit mountain or a spirit spring as their foundation. We might not be able to move the spirit spring to us, but we can head there ourselves to build a manor there.


    He didnt know when the Blood Spirit Cultists would get to the capital. On the one hand, he wanted to evacuate the Fang n elsewhere lest they be caught in the crossfire. At the same time, this spirit spring could be the foundation for the Fang n to thrive as cultivators.


    The Fang n didnt have any officials anymore, so there was no reason for them to remain fixated on the capital either.


    Oh? Fang Zhentians eyes lit up.


    Ever since he became a cultivator, he had be certain that this was the path they had to take for the Fang n tost through the generations. If Fang nsmen could consume the spirit spring water everyday, that should at least squeeze out some cultivation talent in them.


    Besides, cultivators also needed resources to cultivate. While a spirit spring might not be as effectivepared to ki stones, it had the superiority in terms of quantity!


    Zhixue is starting to sense spirit ki. It wont be long before she forges her first immortal vein and bes a cultivator. Once that happens, the burden on your shoulders will be lessened. Youll eventually be able to freely explore therger world out there, Fang Zhentian said.


    Thats good news. Fang Chen nodded with a smile.


    Fang Zhixue hadnt been hanging out with the other martial artists in recent days. She spent most of her time trying toprehend the Purple Aura Form. Clearly, the path of immortality held greater allure to her than martial cultivation.


    Fang Canghai and Fang Cangyou had also made some progress. Their talent was mediocre, but it should be enough for them to reach third stage or fourth stage Ki Refinement.


    Immortal cultivation was not an easy feat. Fang Chen dared not dream that the Fang n could be a huge cultivation n, but it shouldnt be difficult for them to nurture tens of cultivators.

 Chapter 119: Six Months of Heat, Six Months of Cold

    Chapter 119: Six Months of Heat, Six Months of Cold


    In Great Xias imperial pce, the empress passed an envelope to the emperor and said, Chener said that he ought to do something for Great Xia now that hes the Xia Imperial Duke, so he ns on bringing the Fang nsmen to the southern region and resolve the problems there that have umted over the past few centuries.


    The emperor took a look at the letter. The words written were majestic and powerful, giving off an imposing disposition.


    Its no wonder Fang Canghai resigned a few days ago, the emperor murmured. He was nning on moving to the southern region. That makes me miss him a little.


    Your Majesty, you should be relieved now that none of the Fang nsmen are in the imperial court? the empress asked.


    My empress, what do you take me for? When have I ever feared the Fang n? I appreciate Fang Chen taking the initiative to deal with the problems guing the south, the emperor said with a chuckle.


    His heart felt much lighter. If the Fang n had continued residing in the capital, it was only a matter of time before their prestige overtook the imperial family. That would have felt like a knife pointed at his heart; he would have never been able to rest at ease.


    This matter has to be kept confidential first. Even the Fang ns prestige wont be enough to drive fear through the hearts of those greedy scoundrels. Those people wont give up on their interests so easily, the emperor said.


    The empress nodded in agreement. She understood this logic too.


    In the crown princes manor, a frowning Xia Yu first looked at Tao Yu, followed by Li Huafeng, before asking, What is the Fang Manor up to?


    Li Huafeng pondered before replying, Hes likely nning to purge the southern region but the problems there have built up over the centuries, and the corruption runs all the way from the top to the bottom. He might have reached Earth Profound realm, but it wont be easy for him to tackle this issue.


    Fang Chen is already the Xia Imperial Duke. Why does he bother with the southern regions mess? He has built up so much prestige here that even I would have to bow to him. Hed have been better off staying in the capital. Xia Yu was perplexed.


    It was no secret that managing the southern region was a pitfall. Not only were there no benefits, but they would also offend the southern regions martial artists and many soldiers in the military.


    What was scary was not offending the generals but the mid-tiermanders. Losing their support would be a huge blow to the military.


    For that reason, the capital had left the southern region to be as long as they made no attempt to rebel. Unfortunately, this meant suffering for the southern regionsmon popce.


    That might not be so. If the Fang Manor truly wanted to deal with the matter, Fang Zhentian would have already made a move back in his era. There was no need for them to wait till now. Perhaps, the Fang n might have left the capital because of his title as the Xia Imperial Duke. It might have been an intentional move for them to stay away from the capital, lest His Majesty see them as a threat, Tao Yu suggested.


    Thats possible. Xia Yu nodded. He was more inclined to this exnation too.


    Now that the Fang n was no longer involved with the imperial court, there was no benefit for them to manage the southern region.


    The Fang n would be the number one martial arts n in the southern region, towering above the Four Great Sects. Thats better than being an official in the imperial court, Ye Qinghe suddenly spoke up.


    But its the southern region were talking about here. Forget it, it doesnt matter what the Fang n is thinking. They wont affect us anymore now that they are moving to the southern region. This might be for the best, Xia Yu replied with a smile.


    Xia Ji was dead, and Fang Chen was leaving the capital. This was like a dream to him.


    Spections floated around different factions in the capital. Some even ordered their men to head to the southern region to investigate the matter.


    However, none of these were important to Fang Chen. None of their deductions and movements could hurt him. What Fang Chen was going to do far surpassed their wildest imagination.


    It didnt take long for the Fang n to arrive in the South Immortal Commandery.


    The scorching sun produced heat waves that left many of the younger Fang nsmen feeling light-headed. Some even showed signs of heat exhaustion. They finally understood why the southern region was so barren.


    It was too hot for crops to thrive here. It was no wonder normal civilians struggled to fill their stomachs here.


    Big brother, Chener wants to live here from now on? Fang Cangyou asked with a frown.


    He had long removed the nket that was usually on hisp. Even as a Ki Explosion martial artist, this heat was too much for him to take.


    The South Immortal Commandery doesnt go through the four seasons; it only has six months of heat and six months of cold. The climate is already better than the other eightmanderies. I doubt that you canst even a month in the othermanderies. Fang Canghai chuckled.


    No wonder His Majesty turns a blind eye to the southern region. If I was the emperor, I would have done the same too, Fang Cangyou mumbled.


    Those were sphemous words, but Fang Canghai didnt react to them. The Fang Chan had always put the people above the emperor, which resulted in them sometimes acting contrary to the emperors will. This was also partly the reason the emperor wasnt fond of their n.


    Big brother, Chener should have made arrangements for our businesses in the capital, right? We shouldnt throw those businesses away just because were moving to the south. We have an entire n to feed here, Fang Cangyou said.


    Chener will make arrangements, Fang Canghai replied.


    Thats good. Fang Cangyou noded. All of a sudden, his eyes lit up. Theres a teahouse there.


    We have too many people. We shouldnt disturb them. Fang Canghai shook his head.


    Father, Second Uncle, theres a cold spring around thirty kilometers ahead. Thats our destination. Fang Chen galloped over and pointed in a direction.


    Fang Canghai and Fang Cangyous eyes lit up.


    The customers at the teahouse looked at the massive Fang Manors procession with a curious glint in their eyes. They could tell from their clothes that they were from the north.


    An affluent n from the north is traveling to our south? Are they here for a holiday?


    Who would be so dumb as to go on a holiday in our southern region? Are they looking to be turned into jerky?


    Could it be a new official taking post in the southern region?


    Looks like it.


    Among the crowd, there were some who lifted their brows upon seeing the Fang Manors procession, and they quietly slipped away.


    The Fang Manors procession continued making their way toward the cold spring. Soon, the air began to turn cool. In the distance, a pristine spring could be seen.


    The vigers fetching water weren''t surprised to see the Fang Manors procession, as if they were already ustomed to it. They simply fetched their water and took their leave.


    Chener, this cooling ce is like a haven for the sweltering southern region. Im curious to know why there arent any houses in the vicinity, Fang Canghai asked.


    Fang Chen had previously gotten to the bottom of this matter.


    The special nature of the spring water draws in ferocious beasts that are muchrger than usual ones. From time to time, they would drop by this area to take a sip of water. Anyone staying here will just be food to them. Itsmon for those fetching water to be taken away by them, Fang Chen replied.


    Even beasts that drank the spirit spring water every day would start to be intelligent and powerful, such that ordinary martial artists struggled with them.


    Also, when it reaches the cold months, this ce will be colder than other ces. Ordinary people wont be able to withstand it. Its for these two reasons that no one tries to reside here anymore, Fang Chen replied.


    If not for that, a small town would have long appeared here. Otherwise, a major n in the southern region could have upied this spot too.

 Chapter 120: Golden-eyed Demon Ape

    Chapter 120: Golden-eyed Demon Ape


    Chener, the wild beasts you talk about could they have be faes? Fang Canghais expression tightened up.


    Since there were cultivators in the world, it only made sense that there were faes as well. Fighting on the battlefield wasnt terrifying for him, but dealing with faes and mystical creatures of that sort he would be lying if he said he wasnt intimidated.


    They wont pose a threat. Fang Chen shook his head with a smile. Let everyone have their fill of the spring water before setting up camp. Well have to send some people to nearby towns to purchase materials and hire workers to construct a manor.


    Fang Canghai nodded.


    As soon as the Fang nsmen took a sip of the spring water, the sweltering heat dissipated. They quickly took another sip, and it revitalized them. It felt like their exhaustion from traveling had vanished without a trace.


    With that, they began constructing their camps.


    The Fang Manors guards were all veterans, and the youths had received relevant training too. They were all familiar with setting camps. It didnt take them long to construct a simple camp.


    Some of the civilians who came to fetch water from the spring were stunned to see their camps. A brawny man mustered his courage to approach them and advise, You shouldnt stay here. Its still fine in the day, but ferocious beasts will swamp this area at night. Theyll eat you!


    Ferocious beasts? We have plenty of people here to fight them off. Well be fine, Xu Ge replied with a grin.


    I can see that too, but it wont work. The brawny man shook his head. Seeing how stubborn they were, he chose not to bother anymore.


    Just then, a group of youths suddenly galloped over.


    One of them nced at their camp and asked, Where are you from? Are you nning on staying here?


    They frequented this ce for spring water, which was why they were surprised by the pitched tents and ongoing construction. Some of them scoffed at their foolish decision..


    Big Senior Sister, lets ignore them. They must be some rich foreigner who naively thinks that they can upy this cold spring by staying here. It probably never crossed their minds why none of the powerhouses in the southern region has upied this area yet.


    Indeed. Lets quickly take a sip of water and leave. Its starting to get dark. Well be in trouble if those faese.


    Master and the others have already reached Profound Saber Sect. We need to catch up.


    The person whom the group addressed as Big Senior Sister shook her head. They must be unfamiliar with the reason. The least we can do is to offer them a reminder.


    So, she galloped over to the Fang ns camps. Her juniors followed her.


    The Fang Manors guards immediately stood forward to stop her. My apologies, but we have already set up camp here. Please upy a different spot.


    The senior sister shook her head and replied, We wont be staying here. Im here to advise your patriarch that this ce is not suitable for residence.


    Xu Ge narrowed his eyes. <em>Its not just the civilians but also disciples of the pugilistic world who advises us against staying here. Is it really that dangerous? </em>This piqued his curiosity, so he told the guards to let them enter.


    What airs! the other juniors sneered, upset that they were being blocked.


    <em>It looks like martial cultivation is mainstream in the southern region. These disciples are young, but even the weakest of them has already reached pinnacle Ki Condensation. That woman is also at Ki Explosion despite looking only around a year or two older than Miss Zhixue.</em>


    With such a thought in mind, Xu Ge asked with a smile, Young miss, you mentioned that this ce is not suited for residence. May I ask you to borate further on that?


    Faes sometimes appear in this region, the senior sister replied.


    Faes? Xu Geughed. Are there really faes in this world? Even if they do exist, they wont dare to cause us any trouble.


    Hah, you sure talk big. You must be the guard leader here. Of all ces you could have stayed, your master insists on camping here in the wilderness. An interesting choice, I must say, one of the juniors sneered.


    Youre all dressed in the same uniform. May I know what sect youre from? Xu Ge asked.


    Were disciples of the Bear Mountain Sword Sect. Have you heard of it? the junior proudly replied.


    So youre from the Bear Mountain Sword Sect! Xu Ge nodded.


    Only the Four Great Sects, along with some of the top-tier sects and ns, would be backed by a Ki Control martial artist. The Bear Mountain Sword Sect was one of them.


    Big brother Xu, why are you chatting with these people instead of helping out? Fang Zhixue ran over and asked.


    Hm?


    Many of the Bear Mountain Sword Sects male disciples had their eyes light up upon seeing Fang Zhixues suave figure.


    Young miss, they are disciples from the Bear Mountain Sword Sect, Xu Ge replied.


    Bear Mountain Sword Sect? My older brother said that the Bear Mountain Sword Sect is a prestigious sect in the southern region, ced just beneath the Four Great Sects. Arent you located in Beamwater Commandery? Fang Zhixue eyed the people before her in astonishment.


    She knows about our Bear Mountain Sword Sect.


    Her big brother appears to be quite knowledgeable. He knows that our Bear Mountain Sword Sect is second only to the Four Great Sects in the southern region. Now that the Heavensword Mountain Vi is gone, we might just join the ranks of the Four Great Sects.


    The male disciples chattered among themselves with gleeful grins.


    The senior sister smiled. We have business to attend to in the South Immortal Commandery. Youre the young miss of this n, right? I advise you to leave this ce before it turns dark. Itll get dangerous soon.


    Just as she said those words, an exmation could be heard in the distance.


    A few civilians could be seen running frantically in their directions, the pails they had carried here with them nowhere to be seen.


    Grar!


    With a vicious snarl, an ape boasting a height of over three meters tall chased them. It was delighted to see so many people gathered around the cold spring, prompting it to beat its chests and roar at the crowd.


    None of the Fang nsmen has ever seen such a huge ape before, and fear flickered across their eyes. However, they were sufficiently well trained to quickly calm down and not lose their bearings.


    The senior sister eximed in horror, The Gold-eyed Demon Ape? I thought it was dead? It hasnt appeared for many years now!


    B-Big Senior Sister, are you certain? How can we be so unlucky as to cross paths with one of the most ferocious faes here?! The Bear Mountain Sword Sects disciples shuddered.


    The Golden-eyed Demon Ape was so huge that normal people looked like three-year-old kids before it. Even from a distance away, it gave off an intimidating aura that suffocated one.


    So this is the southern region! They often say that the southern region is barren andcking in resources, but to think that their apes can grow this big


    And I wondered why most in the capital were reluctant toe to the southern region. That giant ape can probably take down a Ki Control with a single fist, right?


    This broadened my horizons. If I hadnt seen it with my own eyes, I would have never believed that there could be such a massive ape in the world!


    The Fang nsmen muttered among themselves. The Golden-eyed Demon Ape seemed to understand their words and was enraged by their gossiping, so it immediately charged at them.


    Shut your mouths! The Golden-eyed Demon Ape understands human speech. Youre courting death by gossiping about it! the Bear Mountain Sword Sects Big Senior Sister bellowed.


    Big Senior Sister, lets retreat! The disciples of the Bear Mountain Sword Sect were intimidated.


    That wont do. What will happen to them if we leave?


    The senior sister couldnt bear to leave the others to the lurch, so she gritted her teeth and roared at the Golden-eyed Demon Ape, We are disciples of the Bear Mountain Sword Sect. Please have mercy and return to the mountain!


    The Golden-eyed Demon Ape halted its footsteps. Disdain shed across its eyes, but just then, it found itself faced with a pair of grayish-white eyes and immediately turned tail and ran.


    Those from the Bear Mountain Sword Sect were taken aback. Secondster, one of them eximed in delight, Our Bear Mountain Sword Sects reputation has grown so huge that even the faes here fear us!


    The nearby civilians were awed. They sped their fists and thanked them.


    However, the Bear Mountain Sword Sects senior sister frowned in confusion. <em>When did our Bear Mountain Sword Sect be so famous that even faes avoid us </em>


    <strong>Starves simr but contextually different words:</strong>


    In Chinese folklore, its believed that theres a soul in every being, and beings that live for a long time tend to gain sentience and power.


    For instance, a thousand-year-old tree can be a powerful fae. A snake that has lived for a long time can be a fae too. They tend to be more powerful than their peers, and they may be capable of speech.


    A lot of Chinese stories involve such concepts, such as Madame White Snake, A Chinese Ghost Story, and even Journey to the West.


    There are many ways to trante it - some go for spirits, some go for demons. I chose fae because there will be other contexts where Ill need to use terms like spirits and demonster, and I dont want to conte the ideas together.

 Chapter 121: Bow to Me As Your Master, Respect Me As Your Father

    Chapter 121: Bow to Me As Your Master, Respect Me As Your Father


    Big Senior Sister, I know we should be rushing to the Profound Saber Sect, but it is gettingte. Why dont we rest here for a night? someone from the Bear Mountain Sword Sect proposed.


    Quite a few people nodded in agreement.


    Since they had driven off the Golden-eyed Demon Ape, they didnt want to give up on this cooling ce only to stay at a sweltering inn. Besides, they had been rushing the road so far that they hadnt had an opportunity to rest up.


    While the senior sister was hesitating, someone spoke up, You should stay here and rest for the day. We have enough tents here.


    Fang Chen walked over and smiled at the senior sister and the other disciples of the Bear Mountain Sword Sect.


    Big brother, there was a huge monkey just now! Fang Zhixue anxiously gestured with her hands, but she was unable to describe the massive physique of the Golden-eyed Demon Ape.


    This is our young master, Xu Ge introduced to the senior sister.


    Im Li Chen. Its a pleasure to meet you, Fang Chen sped his fist and said.


    Xu Ge and Fang Zhixues eyebrows shot up. They quickly sped their fists and introduced themselves too.


    Im Xu Ge.


    Im Li Zhixue.


    A few of the younger Fang nsmen came over and introduced themselves too.


    Li Dong here. Its my honor to meet you.


    Hello, Im Li Mei.


    <em>Ah, so its the Li n, </em>the senior sister thought. She sped her fist too and said, Im Zhong Ying from the Bear Mountain Sword Sect. Its a pleasure to meet you too.


    Miss Zhong has done us a huge favor by scaring away the massive ape on our behalf. Otherwise, we would have suffered heavy losses today. Please feel free to stay the night here, Fang Chen said amicably.


    Why are you speaking with closed eyes? one of the disciples asked.


    Fang Chen opened his eyes, revealing his grayish-white eyes.


    The disciples of the Bear Mountain Sword Sect were taken aback. <em>He went blind at such a young age? How pitiful.</em>


    Zhong Ying red at her junior brother. She wanted to reject the offer, but an aroma wafted in their direction just then. The Fang nsmen had begun preparing dinner. She heard her juniors gulping down their saliva, so after some thought, she said, Ill be imposing on you then.


    At night, many of the younger Fang nsmen gathered around the campfire to listen to stories about the pugilistic world from the Bear Mountain Sword Sects disciples. Excited ps could be heard every now and then.


    Fang Zhixue was oddly immersed in those stories.


    It was only after arriving at the southern region that she realized that the capitals pugilistic world wasnt exactly the pugilistic world. The stories there were nowhere as exciting as the ones here.


    The stories ranged from a lone hero massacring the n of a corrupted official and distributing their money to the suffering popce, or a young scion picking up a de after his family was massacred by an enemy and training hard for decades so that he could exact vengeance.


    Such stories were aplenty.


    Meanwhile, Fang Chen ventured deep into the mountain. Following the aura left behind by the Golden-eyed Demon Ape, he soon arrived before a cavern.


    Looking at the pitch-ck cavern, he calmly ordered, Come out.


    A momentter, a massive figure frightfully crawled outthe Golden-eyed Demon Ape.


    It eyed Fang Chen with fearful eyes before speaking in an awkward tone, This little fae didnt know that Lord Immortal was here. Please forgive me if I offended you in any way


    You can speak human tongue? Fang Chen was surprised. <em>This fae doesnt seem strong, but is it intelligent enough to learn human words on its own?</em>


    This little fae gained enlightenment by cultivating and drinking the spirit spring water for many years. The Golden-eyed Demon Apes enunciation was off, but it wasprehensible.


    Your spirit ki is in chaos. You barely managed to manifest an immortal vein Its because you didnt inherit a proper legacy. You must have recklessly cultivated on your own, Fang Chen stared at the Golden-eyed Demon Ape before suddenly remarking.


    The Golden-eyed Demon Ape was startled. Secondster, it kneeled on the ground and kowtowed non-stop, Lord Immortal, please take pity on this little fae and bestow upon me your cultivation method. Ill devote my life to serving you!


    Just then, there was a rustling sound nearby.


    A massive serpent slowly slithered over. A massive tiger head peeked out from the bushes in another direction.


    Before Fang Chen could say a word, these two beasts emted a humans posture by kneeling on the ground alongside the Golden-eyed Demon Ape and kowtowing. Clearly, they had been enlightened too, though they didnt seem capable of speech.


    You are? Fang Chen was intrigued.


    The massive serpent was over twenty meters in length, and the thickest part of its body was the width of a bucket. Its body was covered in scales reminiscent of ck jade, and they glimmered eerily under the moonlight.


    Simrly, the massive tiger was muchrger than ordinary tigers. The fur around its neck was silvery-white in color, looking like a circle of sacred mes.


    Lord Immortal, they are my sworn siblings. I am the Big Brother, Big Cat is the Second Brother, and Little Snake is the Third Sister, the Golden-eyed Demon Ape said in a lowered voice. I told them that I met Lord Immortal at the spirit spring. Lord Immortal, we are kind faes. We havent eaten any humans since bing enlightened. Please take us in as your servants and teach us your cultivation method. We earnestly wish to seek the path of immortality!


    After saying its piece, the Golden-eyed Demon Ape continued kowtowing.


    The tiger and the serpent did the same too, their eyes gleaming with sincerity.


    In other words, you ate quite a few humans before you received enlightenment? Fang Chen asked with an ambiguous smile.


    The Golden-eyed Demon Ape was startled, but it nodded and honestly confessed, We were like any other wild beasts back then. We saw humans as sustenance we had to eat to survive.


    Youre honest. Fang Chen nodded. He could tell that these three faes werent lying to him. Are there any other beasts here who received enlightenment?


    The Golden-eyed Demon Ape replied with a hushed tone, Lord Immortal, many beasts here umte spirit ki from drinking from the spirit spring over a long period of time, but most of them never be enlightened, and they dont live for long either. Other than being stronger than normal beasts, they are nothing like us.


    You looked like you were going to kill when you came to the spirit spring earlier, Fang Chen pointed out with a smile.


    Lord Immortal, I only wanted to scare them away. Its about to reach nightfall. The dumber beasts might go after those humans if they continued lingering here, the Golden-eyed Demon Ape replied.


    Interesting. Fang Chen nodded with a smile. You didnt inherit a legacy, but you became faes just from drinking from the spirit spring. Your talent is noteworthy among your kind. I intend to construct my base here, and I need guards. Are you willing to take me as your master?


    The three faes were taken aback. <em>He intends to take us in as his disciples?</em>


    The Golden-eyed Demon Ape howled in excitement. The youths who were chatting at the foot of the mountain shuddered and looked toward the mountain.


    Big Senior Sister, will those faese after us again? one of the Bear Mountain Sword Sects disciples asked in uncertainty.


    I dont think so Zhong Ying murmured in reply. <em>If those faes wanted to kill us, they would have long done so I guess they are really intimidated by our Bear Mountain Sword Sect?</em>


    Paying respect to master!


    The three faes kneeled before Fang Chen. They would have been delighted if thetter took them in as servants, but who could have thought that they would actually have the privilege to be the other partys disciples?


    It was way better to be an immortals disciples than to be fae servants. This meant that they would receive a proper cultivation legacy in the future!


    It was hard to be initiated into the path of immortality, be it for mortals or faes.


    Why dont I bestow you with a dharma name? Fang Chen suggested.


    Yes, master!


    The three faes were excited once more.


    Fang Chen pointed to the Golden-eyed Demon Ape with nostalgic eyes and said, You shall be known as the Victorious Buddha from this day onward. Should you be an immortal, you will take on the name Victorious Fighting Buddha.


    Victorious Buddha? Victorious Fighting Buddha? the Golden-eyed Demon Ape mumbled the name before its body trembled in excitement.


    Even Big Cat and Little Snake could tell that it was an incredible dharma name. It made them look forward to their dharma names.


    <strong>Starves trivia</strong>


    Itsmon for monks to receive a dharma name when they renounce secrism and devote themselves to pursuing enlightenment. It is simr in this case too.

 Chapter 122: Traveling Together

    Chapter 122: Traveling Together


    Fang Chen gave it some thought and bestowed Big Cat with the dharma name of Great Mountain Tiger and Little Snake with Azure Sky.


    The two faes were fond of their dharma names, and they were thankful to Fang Chen for it.


    These three faes didnt pose a threat to Fang Chen. Even Xu Ge could kill them with a single Purple Lightning Talisman. However, normal martial artists would indeed struggle against them.


    Victorious Buddha had manifested three impure immortal veins, which meant that he wasparable to a pinnacle Ki Control martial artist. Great Mountain Tiger and Azure Sky was weaker, having manifested only two immortal veins.


    However, the special nature of spirit ki made it such that even Ki Manifestation martial artists would struggle to breach their defense. As long as their enemy wasnt a cultivator, their fighting prowess was top-notch in the southern region.


    Here is the manual for the first five stages of Purple Aura Form. The immortal veins you have manifested through absorbing the spirit ki in the spring is improper and impure. You will have to work hard to reforge your immortal vein, so that you would have a strong foundation to reach higher ranks.


    Victorious Buddha is an ape fae, so he was able to master human speech at an earlier phase. Great Mountain Tiger and Azure Sky, youll likely have to cultivate till the fourth or fifth stage of Ki Refinement before you are capable of human speech. You will have to work harder.


    Fang Chen handed the three faes the manual for the first five stages of Purple Aura Form.


    The three faes respectfully received the manual from Fang Chen. They were so excited that their bodies wouldnt stop trembling.


    This was a proper cultivation method, something they had desired but was out of reach for them for many years. Even in their dreams, they would dream of immortals descending from the sky and imparting their cultivation method to them.


    Who could have thought that their dream would reallye true?


    Thank you, master! Thank you! Victorious Buddha kowtowed nonstop, and warm tears streamed from his eyes.


    I have thirty low-grade ki stones here. Its more effective than the spirit spring. It shouldst you for quite a while, Fang Chen said as he handed each of them ten low-grade ki stones.


    It should be enough tost them one to two months.


    What rich and pure spirit ki!


    Faes were attuned to spirit ki, especially those who had embarked on the path of cultivation. Those three faes sensed the rich spirit ki harnessed inside the ki stones and knew right away that these were treasures!


    Fang Chens gifts to them had been so great that they were moved to tears. This was a fortuitous encounter for them. Now that they had a strong backing, they could finally advance through the ranks.


    Right, this as well Fang Chen immersed his consciousness into the storage ring to search for something.


    He had looted a bunch of artifacts from the South Heaven Sects cultivators. Unlike talismans, artifacts could only be activated through spirit ki, so Xu Ge and the others were unable to use them.


    He was able to find three fitting artifacts for the faesa four daosoul imprint sword, a three daosoul imprint bell, and a three daosoul imprint cor.


    He gave the sword to Victorious Buddha, the bell to Great Mountain Tiger, and the cor to Azure Sky.


    These three artifacts should still have their previous owners imprints. Youll have to erase them before assimting them.


    The three faes felt like they were dreaming.


    Cultivation methods, ki stones, and artifacts. These things had been beyond their reach for the longest time, but they suddenly came to them in a single go.


    <em>Wait, the previous owners imprints? </em>


    The three faes widened their eyes as they understood the hidden meaning behind those words. Fang Chens figure suddenly looked much bigger to them. <em>He must have killed other immortals to have found so many artifacts! An immortal who is able to kill other immortals; he must be one of the strongest ones out there! </em>


    Meanwhile, Fang Chen looked through the content of his storage ring. He had 270 low-grade ki stones, a huge bunch of talismans, the Moonsunk Gold Truncheon, the Greenwood Puppet, the Golden Alm Bowl, and a couple of artifacts from the South Heaven Sects disciples.


    For a fifth stage Ki Refinement cultivator, he was much wealthier than his peers.


    Ill be constructing a manor near the spirit spring over the next few days. While youre busy cultivating, I want you to keep an eye on the nearby beasts too and keep them from disturbing the workers. If you have any questions regarding your cultivation, you may consult me when I return, Fang Chen instructed before heading off.


    The three faes respectfully sent him off.


    It was only when they were nearing the foot of the mountain that they finally saw Fang Chen with reluctant eyes.


    Victorious Buddha remarked, Second Brother, Third Sister, our master didnt discriminate against us just because we are faes. He imparted us with a cultivation method, ki stones, and artifacts. He is as good as our second father. We mustnt let him down.


    Ssss (Big Brother, Ill devour those fellows lest they disturb our masters nsmen.)


    Grar (Lets do it!)


    Victorious Buddha shook his head. No, a warning will suffice. Lets camp in this area for now. Those beasts are not enlightened yet, but they might stumble upon a fortuitous encounter like we did in the future. Lets not recklessly kill them.


    Ssss (Ill listen to our Big Brother.)


    Grar (Me too.)


    The three faes spread out andid down in different directions around the spirit spring, lest any wild beasts disturbed the Fang n.


    It was a calm night for the Fang n.


    When the civilians dropped by the spirit spring the following morning, they were surprised to see the Fang n was unharmed.


    Pardon us, but we have to rush to the Profound Saber Sect. Well be taking our leave now. Zhong Ying and her juniors bowed to Fang Chen and the others, bidding farewell.


    Miss Zhong, I am interested in the affairs of the pugilistic world. Id like to pay a visit to the Profound Saber Sect to expand my horizons. Would it be possible for me and my servant to apany you? Fang Chen sped his fist.


    Servant Yuan Zhuang stood by the side with a perplexed look.


    Fang Zhixue wanted to join themotion, but the spirit spring here was too nourishing. She wanted to manifest her first immortal vein so much that she decided to rein in her yfulness and focus on her cultivation.


    Young master Li, why join themotion when you cant even see? This matter involves hundreds of sects across the southern region. We wont be able to protect you if something goes wrong, a Bear Mountain Sword Sects disciple replied.


    Zhong Ying had the same thought in mind too. She was just about to politely reject Fang Chen when thetter pointed to Yuan Zhuang.


    This servant of mine is a Ki Explosion martial artist. He can ensure my safety, Fang Chen said.


    Yuan Zhuang caught the drift and slowly circted his inner ki.


    Zhong Ying and the others were surprised. They would have never thought that this average-looking fellow was a Ki Explosion martial artist. Such strength ced him in the upper tier in the southern region, with Ki Control experts standing at the top of the hierarchy.


    As expected of a rich man. You even have a Ki Control martial artist as your servant, one of the Bear Mountain Sword Sects disciples muttered.


    They looked at Yuan Zhuang with disdainful eyes. Few martial artists in the southern region were willing to lower themselves as servants for just loose silver pieces.


    You maye with us then, young master Li. Zhong Ying nodded.


    The Li n had warmly hosted themst night, so this was their way of repaying the favor.

 Chapter 123: There’s Credence Behind His Title

    Chapter 123: There¡¯s Credence Behind His Title


    Young master, we need to rush to the Profound Saber Sect, or else Yuan Zhuang anxiously told Fang Chen with a suppressed voice.


    What are you worried about? Fang Chen chuckled. Are you worried they would stomp the Profound Sword Sect?


    Yuan Zhuang nodded.


    The Profound Saber Sect had been encircled by many sects, and his cousin, Yuan Yu, was trapped in there. Even Jue Panshi, a Valiant Defenders chiliarc, couldnt intimidate them. If they really stomped the Profound Saber Sect, all of them would be goners.


    Their encirclement of the Profound Saber Sect merely symbolizes their stance. Why else do you think youre able to escape and deliver the message to me? Even Huangfu Jie wouldnt have been able to flee from the mountain alive if the Greatsword Gate really intended to raid the Profound Saber Sect, let alone you. Fang Chen pointed out with a smile.


    Are you saying Yuan Zhuang gasped. Fang Chens words had enlightened him to the reality of the situation. <em>Shit! I thought the pugilistic world is supposed to be more straightforward, but it turns out to be just as scheming as the imperial court!</em>


    The Greatsword Gates sudden move was likely rted to the South Immortal Commanderys purging of the minor sect. That move might have threatened the interests of some, so they went ahead with this encirclement.


    Their goal was not to have a fall out with the imperial court but to make a clear stance.


    Having thought things through, Yuan Zhuang wasnt that anxious anymore.


    Hourster, the crowd arrived at a bustling town. Beyond this town was a towering mountain, and that was where the Profound Saber Sect was located.


    This town was not usually this crowded, but the martial artists from the Nine Commanderies had rushed here after receiving the Greatsword Sects invitation. As a result, armed martial artists could be spotted strutting around the town here and there.


    Most of these martial artists were at Ki Refinement, making them small fry in the pugilistic world. There were also some reputable Ki Explosion martial artists among them, and they were clearly treated with respect.


    Oh? Those people appear to be from distinguished backgrounds.


    Thats the Bear Mountain Sword Sects Zhong Ying. She reached Ki Explosion at a young age. Her Bear Mountain Sword can easily curb the two of us together.


    Ah, its a disciple of the Bear Mountain Sword Sect! Now that the Heavensword Mountain Vi has fallen, the Bear Mountain Sword Sect is likely to join the ranks of the Four Great Sects


    Heh I dont think the Profound Saber Sect willst long either. The Bear Mountain Sword Sect will take one of the slots, but I wonder who will im the other seat.


    Such discussions could be heard from the crowd. There were asional fearful nces directed at Zhong Ying.


    Junior Zhong Ying, youre finally here!


    A group of white-robed people carrying massive swords on their backs suddenly approached them. The person leading the group was a young man who appeared to be in his early twenties.


    They were disciples of the Greatsword Gate!


    The surrounding martial artists narrowed their eyes.


    Senior Xian? I thought you had already scaled the mountain, Zhong Ying greeted with a smile.


    Paying respect to Senior Xian, the other Bear Mountain Sword Sects disciples said.


    Xian Kun chuckled. Junior Zhong, I was waiting for you. I heard from your sect master that you and your juniors are reaching the Profound Saber Sect, and I was worried you might struggle to find your way around.


    Ill be troubling Senior Xian then, Zhong Ying said.


    Xian Kun nced at the group and noticed two unfamiliar facesFang Chen and Yuan Zhuang. That piqued his curiosity. Those two are?


    Zhong Ying quickly exined their backgrounds.


    When Xian Kun learned that they were from a wealthy n in the northern region, his eyes turned cold. He looked at the two of them with a superficial smile and remarked, Wouldnt it be dangerous for someone as esteemed as the two of you toe to a ce like this?


    The southern region isnt suited for delicate young masters like you, a Greatsword Gates disciple added.


    It was easy to differentiate between people from the northern region and the southern region. Those from the southern region tended to have a darker skin tone and a coarserplexion, including martial artists. Even Zhong Ying had a coppery skin tone too.


    In contrast, it was an understatement to say that Fang Chen had a fairplexion, though his skin wasnt as smooth after years on the battlefield. That being said, the nourishment from the spirit ki after he became a cultivator had given his skin a healthy glow.


    It was visible that he was a young master from the northern region.


    Im expanding my horizons, Fang Chen remarked with a smile.


    Why dont you open your eyes when you speak? Xian Kun frowned.


    Zhong Ying quickly stepped in and exined on Fang Chens behalf.


    The Greatsword Gates disciples were amused to learn that Fang Chen was blind. <em>Why is a blind man joining in themotion? </em>


    A battle has broken out on the mountain! The Seven Profound Saber has made his move! The Bear Mountain Sect Master has sustained severe injuries! someone reported.


    The crowd was taken aback to hear that.


    Big Senior Sister, lets quickly scale the mountain! The Bear Mountain Sword Sects disciples were anxious to learn that their sect master was injured.


    Zhong Ying nodded.


    Come, Ill take you up the mountain, Xian Kun said.


    With Greatsword Gates disciples opening up the path, the group was able to pass through the crowded street with greater ease.


    Young master Li, its best for you not to scale the mountain now. Why dont you take a stroll in the town instead? Zhong Ying turned around and suggested.


    Theres no reason for my young master to stay at the foot of the mountain when hes already here. Its rare for something this huge to happen in the southern regions pugilistic world. The least we should do is to take a look, Yuan Zhuang replied on Fang Chens behalf.


    Xian Kun turned around and sneered, Youre here to watch ourmotion? Do you really think that you northerners are superior to us?


    Im also a Ki Explosion martial artist. Do you have a problem with that? Yuan Zhuang replied with a deeper, more menacing voice.


    <em>Ki Explosion martial artist?</em>


    Xian Kun was surprised. He carefully assessed Yuan Zhuang once more before softly chuckling. He didnt say anything else afterward.


    Zhong Ying thought about it, and it didnt seem inappropriate for her to bring Fang Chen up the mountain. Thetter had a Ki Explosion martial artist as a guard, after all. They had the means to protect themselves. Thus, she decided not to bother dissuading them anymore.


    The road up the mountain was filled with martial artists.


    It took the group an hour before they arrived before the entrance of the Profound Saber Sect.


    There was already arge crowd gathered there by the time they arrived. There were many tents in the surroundings, a sign that they were determined to hold the encirclement and trap the Profound Saber Sects members.


    Of them, the Greatsword Sects martial artists stood out the most. They had a few hundred disciples gathered in the area, and they strutted around with an air of loftiness.


    Apanying them were the other first-rate sects, such as the Bear Mountain Sword Sect.


    The other second-rate, third-rate sects, and unaffiliated martial artists lingered at the outer perimeter.


    All in all, there were at least 7000 to 8000 people gathered here. Despite not being a trained army, their martial art prowess was more than enough to threaten an elite army of 10,000 men. The Profound Saber Sect wouldnt stand a chance if they chose to ughter their way in!


    Huangfu Jie was crossing blows with a Ki Control martial artist at the Profound Saber Sects entrance. Seven sharp sabers could be seen revolving around him through the maniption of his inner ki. These sharp sabers wielded terrifying might, and they could unleash attacks from challenging trajectories.


    His opponent was a Ki Control martial artist who appeared to be in his sixties. This martial artists aura paled inparison to Huangfu Jie, but he was one of the more outstanding martial artists in the southern region. Yet, he was being suppressed, unable to fight back at all.


    Zhong Ying and her group rushed to the Bear Mountain Sword Sects camp.


    Their sect masters face was pale. He massaged his chest while observing the ongoing battle and murmuring, Huangfu Jie has grasped the powerful Seven Profound Sabers despite only being in his twenties. As expected of the number one expert of our southern region. He lives up to his reputation

 Chapter 124: Demanding Justice

    Chapter 124: Demanding Justice


    Master, are you fine? Zhong Ying asked worriedly.


    Junior Zhong.


    Senior Sister.


    The Bear Mountain Sword Sects disciples greeted Zhong Ying. Their expressions were grim, and rage zed in their eyes. Their gaze lingered on Seven Profound Saber Huangfu Jie even as they greeted Zhong Ying.


    Im fine. Im just a little short on breath. Their sect master shook his head. He looked at Huangfu Jie once more and sighed. With such talent, its no wonder the Profound Saber Sect has a strong footing as one of the Four Great Sects. Inparison, our Bear Mountain Sword Sect is stillcking.


    Sect master, Huangfu Jie was only able to best you due to his younger age, one of the disciples grumbled indignantly.


    Haha Their sect master shook his head and chuckled. We, as martial artists, should be brave but not bigoted. It is a fact that he is strong. Theres no need to find any excuse for that.


    The Profound Saber Sect focuses solely on practicing the Seven Profound Sabers, but their sect master, to this day, is only able to control five sabers. In his younger days, he was only able to control three. You im that Huangfu Jie has nothing but his youth? Well, I can tell you that Huangfu Jies talent is number one in the southern region. Perhaps the only one he pales inparison to is War God Fang.


    The crowd was astonished to hear their sect masters evaluation.


    The southern region revered martial arts, but there was one person who towered over them, leaving them feeling stifled, and that was Great Xias number one expert, War God Fang Chen!


    He was Great Xias youngest ever Ki Manifestation martial artist. More recently, he was said to have defeated one of Chillwaters Earth Profound martial artists and was bestowed with the title of Xia Imperial Duke!


    Right after their sect master said those words, the Ki Control martial artist shing with Huangfu Jie was struck squarely by three sabers and was sent flying more than thirty meters away.


    It was a good battle.


    Huangfu Jie stood with his hands behind his back. Seven sabers continued to revolve around him under the control of his inner ki, a sight that struck fear in the martial artists present.


    It was rare for anyone to have such fine control over their inner ki!


    The Profound Saber Sects disciples roared enthusiastically at Huangfu Jies victory, whereas the defeated Ki Control martial artist could only angrily limp off with the support of his disciples.


    Yuan Zhuang saw Yuan Yu and the others standing amidst the Profound Saber Sects disciples, roaring taunts at the surrounding martial artists. This made him frown.


    While the martial artists encircling the Profound Saber Sect were intimidated by Huangfu Jies prowess, that didnt mean that they were afraid of him. The tides were in their favor, after all, with thousands of martial artists on their side.


    <em>So what if hes the number one expert of the southern region? He wont stand a chance if we overrun him!</em>


    Huangfu Jie, you must have lost your manners to injure a senior in the pugilistic world! The g Mountain Sect Master is decades older than you! a sect master roared.


    The Profound Saber Sect must have gotten arrogant after being in such a lofty position for so many years. You should know that we have only held back thus far in view that we are fellow members of the pugilistic world, another sect master sneered.


    The Profound Saber Sects disciples found those people incredibly shameless.


    Yuan Yu even turned to the other constables and vented, Do you see that? How can anyone be this shameless?


    Those constables nodded in agreement too. <em>You are the ones who encircled the Profound Saber Sect, but here you areining about Huangfu Jie not going easy on you?</em>


    You were the ones who attacked our Profound Saber Sect, and youre ming me for not holding back? If I hadnt held back, none of those seniors who shed with me earlier would have been alive now! Huangfu Jie sneered.


    Everyone, we have shown mercy. You have caused a fuss, so isnt it about time to rein it in? Our Profound Saber Sect has nothing to do with the Heavensword Mountain Vis massacre, and the culprit has been apprehended by War God Fang. I hope that youll show some sense regarding this matter. A middle-aged man took his position beside Huangfu Jie and sped his fist toward the nearby martial artists.


    He was the Profound Saber Sect Master, as well as Huangfu Jies father.


    The crowd fell silent upon hearing Fang Chens name.


    Secondster, a deep voice boomed, Profound Saber Sect Master, you imed that War God Fang has killed the culprit. If I may ask, whats the culprits name? Whats his background? Wheres his corpse? You have no evidence whatsoever, so how can we believe you? Now that the Heavensword Mountain Vi is gone, the South Immortal Province is all yours. You should be able to see why we gave our doubts regarding this matter, right?


    The person who had just spoken up was a brawny middle-aged man who boasted a physique on par with Huang Sihai. His sword, which was lodged on the ground beside him, was asrge as a door, and it emanated a cold gleam.


    Greatsword Gate Master, I can testify on behalf of the Profound Saber Sect. Jue Panshi walked out from the crowd. War God Fang took a trip to the southern region not long ago, and he left right after apprehending the culprit. He is a busy man, after all. We dont know who the culprit is as War God Fang dealt with it on his own, but I believe he has his reasons for doing so. I hope that you can take a more rational stance regarding this matter.


    Jue Panshi, how can we trust a Valiant Defenders chiliarch like you?


    As an official of the imperial court, you are bound to be on War God Fangs side. Profound Saber Sects Huangfu Jie is on good terms with War God Fang, so its only normal for you to speak up on their behalf. We need evidence!


    You led your soldiers to take down many sects in the South Immortal Province. Perhaps you might just be the ringleader behind the Heavensword Mountain Vis massacre!


    The crowd bellowed.


    Jue Panshis face turned livid. He knew these people hadnt barged into the Profound Saber Sect yet because they were waiting for an exnation. The troops under hismand hadnte to his aid because someone had suppressed them.


    It was only at this moment that he understood just how chaotic the southern region was. Most of his subordinates in the Valiant Defenders might even have close ties with these sects.


    Greatsword Gate Master, what do you want? Huangfu Jie asked with narrowed eyes.


    Im merely seeking justice for the pugilistic world. If justice cant be given, blood will have to be shed in our southern region, the Greatsword Gate Master said with augh. He grabbed his great swords handle and eyed Huangfu Jie. Seven Profound Saber, I heard youre the number one expert of the southern region, but we havent gotten a chance to trade blows yet. Why dont we start things off with a fight first?


    The Greatsword Gate Master pulled his great sword out from the ground, and the earth immediately cracked apart. There were at least twenty cracks, and each of them extended for over fifty meters.


    The crowd was startled by the strength of the Greatsword Gate Master, but that was quickly reced by delight. <em>Perhaps the Greatsword Gate Master can defeat Huangfu Jie!</em>


    Will you back off if I defeat you? Huangfu Jie asked grimly.


    It doesnt work that way. Even if I am defeated, my peers in the pugilistic world will continue to stand strong against tyranny, the Greatsword Gate Master calmly replied.


    With his great sword in hand, he charged forward like an unstoppable beast at Huangfu Jie. Each step he took left behind a heavy footprint on the ground. His movements might look slow and dumb, but it took only an instant for him to arrive before his target.


    He swung his great sword down with a burst of inner ki.


    Yuan Zhuang instinctively turned to Fang Chen, only to see thetter leisurely resting with his eyes closed. That set his mind at ease. <em>This matter probably is no big deal if the young master isnt anxious at all. </em>

 Chapter 125: A Revolution

    Chapter 125: A Revolution


    The Greatsword Gates swordsmanship was centered around the concept of heaviness, and its master had grasped the essence of it. By exploiting the weight of the great sword, he was able to move at the speed of lightning and unleash terrifyingly strong blows.


    Huangfu Jie dodged the great swords onught with his superior movement skill, while controlling his seven sabers to continuously attack his opponent. However, the Greatsword Gate Master was able to easily fend off the seven sabers with his great sword.


    Both sides exchanged a hundred blows, but there was still no victor in sight. The martial artists who had gathered from far and wide cheered in delight. Even the Bear Mountain Sect Master, a pinnacle Ki Control martial artist, had onlysted thirty blows against Huangfu Jie before falling in defeat.


    How could the crowd not be delighted when the Greatsword Gate Master was disying strength on par with Huangfu Jie? After all, he was the leader of this operation!


    If you ask me, the Greatsword Gate Master is the number expert of our southern region. Huangfu Jie doesnt dare to sh head on with him at all.


    The Profound Saber Sect thought they could stop us with just Huangfu Jie, but just the Greatsword Gate Master is enough to deal with him!


    Such murmurs could be heard from the surroundings.


    Xian Kun and the others proudly lifted their heads as they looked at the Profound Saber Sects disciples with disdain in their eyes.


    Dont just dodge my swordsmanship. You wont win at this rate! The Greatsword Gate Master burst into heartyughter.


    Huangfu Jies face turned cold. One of his sabers suddenly circled around the great sword at an incredible speed to strike the vitals of the Greatsword Gate Master.


    ng!


    The Greatsword Gate Master was able to maneuver his great sword in time to block the saber, but the attack left a small cut on his cheek. Blood seeped from the cut.


    The Greatsword Gate Master had sustained an injury, but Huangfu Jie remained unscathed.


    A round of apuse broke out from the Profound Saber Sect, whereas the Greatsword Gates disciples and the other martial artists turned grim.


    My saber art consists of nothing but killing moves, Huangfu Jie said. They arent suited for sparring. If you insist on continuing this battle, itlle down to a life-and-death battle.


    Give it a try then! the Greatsword Gate Master touched the wound on his cheek and sneered.


    The battle intensified. The attacks became more ferocious and deadly, leaving the crowd nervous.


    After trading another fifty blows, the Greatsword Gate Master was covered in injuries, whereas Huangfu Jie remained unscathed.


    By this point, it was already clear who was the stronger martial artist here.


    A few shester, the Greatsword Gate Master retreated and said, You do live up to your title as the southern regions top expert. If not for the Xia Imperial Duke, you would have been Great Xias strongest martial artist.


    If you knew how strong Imperial Duke Fang is, why did you still rally martial artists to encircle our Profound Saber Sect? Imperial Duke Fang would have long destroyed us if we had anything to do with the massacre of the Heavensword Mountain Vi, Huangfu Jie said.


    He might be strong, but we cant allow him to stir chaos in the southern region with just a single word, the Greatsword Gate Master replied.


    Thats right! What did our ck Dragon Sect do wrong? The Valiant Defenders destroyed our ck Dragon Sect at a single word from Imperial Duke Fang! Over a hundred of our members were either killed or injured! someone eximed.


    The ck Dragon Sect was located in the South Immortal Commandery too, putting them under Chiliarch Jues jurisdiction.


    Thats the case for our Salt Sect too! Were just a group of merchants who learned a bit of martial arts to protect ourselves. Why is heing after us?


    Dissatisfied voices echoed from the surroundings.


    The Heavensword Mountain Sect probably faced the same fate too. They must have somehow angered Imperial Duke Fang, prompting him to destroy them. You, Huangfu Jie, have close ties with Imperial Duke Fang. I suspect that you made a move on his behalf!


    We must maintain order in the southern region! We demand justice and ountability!


    The Heavensword Mountain Vis massacre has nothing to do with Imperial Duke Fangs decision to purge the South Immortal Commandery. The Valiant Defenders wouldnt have knocked on your doors if you didnt do anything wrong. Dont think that you can act as you please just because youre far away from the imperial capital! Huangfu Jie sneered.


    The southern region has its own rules. We are allw-abiding citizens. If any of us did wrong, we can simply sit down and talk things out. How can we allow the Valiant Defenders to interfere in our affairs and tell us whats right and wrong?


    The southern region is founded upon the autonomy of our sects. If we allow the South Immortal Commandery to be purged today, the same could happen to the other eightmanderies in the future! That would just make our southern region the same as the northern region. There would be no pugilistic world to speak of! the Greatsword Gate Master roared.


    This matter began due to the Heavensword Mountain Vi, so it should be settled through it too. Give me a satisfactory exnation, or else well take things into our own hands and uphold the order of the southern regions pugilistic world by ourselves!


    What arrogant words! Jue Panshi was already annoyed at being trapped here for many days, and those words further piqued his ire. You bunch of misfits think you can act as you please! Our tens of thousands of elite troops can easily wipe the floor with you!


    Hahaha!


    Quite a few martial artists roared inughter.


    The Greatsword Gate Masterughed as well. Chiliarch Jue, where are the tens of thousands of elite troops you speak of? You should be smart enough to figure things out by now.


    Jue Panshi was rendered speechless.


    Haa Huangfu Jie suddenly sighed. The young master is right. The southern regions pugilistic world is in chaos. When no one holds the reins, the ones to suffer are themon popce.


    Youre wrong. Hes wrong too. The southern regions pugilistic world has never been in chaos. On the contrary, the only way to prevent the southern regions pugilistic world from descending into chaos is to uphold the order we have maintained thus far. The Greatsword Gate Master shook his head.


    Lets destroy the Profound Saber Sect and show the northerners our will!


    We have always steered clear of each others path, but Fang Chen chose to interfere in the southern regions affairs. He isnt a martial artist of the pugilistic world; what makes him think that he has the right to mess with us?


    Send Huangfu Jies head to the capital so as to let Fang Chen know our will! If he wants to mess with us, well have no choice but to tear the southern region away from Great Xia!


    In terms of strength, our southern region is far stronger than the northern region. How many of Great Xias soldiers were born from the southern region? So many of our men died in the Three Realms Mountain back then. How can Fang Chen be so brazen as to still mess with us?


    Indeed! Our people fill their army from the top to the bottom; there are even generals from the south too! They might listen to the northerners when dealing with foreigners, but if a civil war ever breaks out, lets see who they will side with!


    Since the strongest sect masters from the Nine Commanderies are here, why dont we hold a conference of the pugilistic world and decide on an alliance master right now? The alliance master shall be the one to decide the rules of the southern region from now onward. The northern region wont be able to do anything about us!


    There was a mood change amidst the crowd. Quite a few people were startled. The Bear Mountain Sect Master looked at the Greatsword Gate Master, and his expression slowly turned grim.


    This is bad. They are taking our Profound Saber Sect as fodder for their ambitions! The Profound Saber Sect Master was horrified. He turned to Huangfu Jie and roared, You need to escape right now!


    We should first avenge the Heavensword Mountain Vi, then select an alliance master. Afterward, lets choose one sect to take over the South Immortal Commandery, the Greatsword Gate Master said.


    The eyes of the thousands of martial artists gathered here lit up. It was a dream for them to settle down in the South Immortal Commandery. This ce was closer to the northern region, so it was the wealthiest one of the Nine Commanderies.


    The power bnce in the southern region would be rewritten from this day onward. All of them would benefit greatly from this event. This could be considered as a revolution for the southern regions pugilistic world.


    The Greatsword Gate Master didnt even have to say a word; the thousands of martial artists had already begun encroaching on the Profound Saber Sect. After many days of encirclement, they were finally out for blood.

 Chapter 126: Tribute

    Chapter 126: Tribute


    That fellow actually harbors that kind of intention! Jue Panshi was startled.


    <em>Selecting an alliance master to decide the rules in the southern region? That is as good as a rebellion! They are effectively dering that the imperial court can control the northern region, but the southern region is going to be under the pugilistic worlds rule!</em>


    <em>What about the other officials in the southern region then? Are they not interfering because they dont know about it, or are they turning a blind eye because they want the southern region to be free from the northern regions control too?</em>


    Jue Panshi shuddered to think about the consequences. Not even in his wildest dream did he think that he would get embroiled into something as huge as this. A single misstep here could spell the end of him!


    War God Fang, Imperial Duke Fang You shouldnt have interfered in the southern regions affairs! Jue Panshi murmured with a bitter smile.


    Yuan Yu and the others were caught off guard. They didnt expect the situation to develop in such a direction, and they struggled to regain their senses. <em>Are the martial artists rebelling right now?</em>


    They were aware of the vast differences between the northern region and the southern region, but they never thought the southern regions martial artists would attempt to stage a rebellion.


    <em>Arent they afraid that the northern region might dispatch its army over to suppress them?</em>


    As soon as that thought surfaced, Yuan Yu and the others recalled the martial artists words.


    <em>Many of Great Xias soldiers are from the southern region, and the soldiers from the northern region will struggle to adapt to the southern regions climate in the short run. Given so</em>


    Something huge is going to happen Yuan Yu muttered. Has big brother gotten to War God Fang yet or not? If War God Fang is here, he might still be able to resolve this issue


    The Profound Saber Sect Master red at the Greatsword Gate Master. Thetter stood still on the spot, but the surrounding martial artists continued to march in on them.


    Son, itll be toote if you dont break out of the encirclement now. The Profound Saber Sect Master took a deep breath. Even if were destroyed today, we have to leave a seed behind to avenge us.


    Father, Yuan Zhuang has gone to the northern region to inform War God Fang of the matters. War God Fang should be arriving soon, Huangfu Jie said.


    Were up against thousands of martial artists here. Even if War God Fang is here itll be hard for two hands to deal with four hands, the Profound Saber Sect Master replied in despair.


    As he had never seen an Earth Profound martial artist, he could only deduce Fang Chens current strength by conjecture. <em>Even if Fang Chen has reached Earth Profound level, he isnt a god yet. Its unlikely hed have the means to subdue thousands of martial artists via brute force.</em>


    Arent you afraid that Imperial Duke Fang might settle the scores with you in the future? Huangfu Jie bellowed. He had channeled his inner ki into his voice, making his words echo many kilometers away.


    The nearby martial artists halted their footsteps.


    Most of Great Xias soldiers are from the southern region, but you should be familiar with Imperial Duke Fangs means. Hed still find a way to gather an army and ughter all of you. None of us, including me, has been to a battlefield; were mere martial artists. A battle of that scale is different from a brawl in the pugilistic world. What makes you think the northern region will tolerate this? Huangfu Jie roared.


    The crowd fell silent. Many eyes instinctively turned to the Greatsword Gate Master.


    Hahaha The Greatsword Gate Master chuckled. Fang Chen is not a deity. He cant single-handedly reverse the tides of the southern region. Youll be disappointed if youre pinning all your hopes on him.


    Those words revitalized the martial artists confidence, and they continued marching toward the Profound Saber Sect.


    Master, are we going to rebel? Zhong Ying was at a loss.


    None of the Bear Mountain Sword Sects disciples made a move as their sect master had chosen to hold his ground. A few other first-rate sects made the same decision as well.


    It looks like the Greatsword Gate Master dreams of bing the southern regions martial emperor. The Bear Mountain Sect Master sighed softly. I thought the aim of this encirclement was to avenge the Heavensword Mountain Vi, but now I know I was naive. The Profound Saber Sect might not be the culprit behind the Heavensword Mountain Vis massacre.


    Which side should we stand on? Zhong Ying asked.


    The elders of the Bear Mountain Sword Sect were also waiting for their sect masters decision.


    Bear Mountain Sect Master, do you not intend to stand alongside the martial artists of our southern region? Are you still sided with the northern region? the Greatsword Gate Master suddenly spoke up.


    Junior Zhong, you should stop hesitating! As long as we pull this off, we, from the southern region, will no longer have to bow our heads to the northern region anymore! Xian Kun shouted to Zhong Ying.


    He was excited because he was the son of the Greatsword Gate Master. If his father became the southern regions martial emperor, that would make him the martial crown prince!


    I dont think we have a choice here.


    The Bear Mountain Sect Master shook his head. He grabbed his sword and was just about to rise to his feet when he heard a chuckle from behind.


    No, you do have a choice.


    The crowd turned to Fang Chen.


    Hm? Whos that fellow?


    Hes fair-skinned. A northerner?


    Zhong Ying was startled. She quickly whispered to Fang Chen, Young master Li, you shouldnt speak a word now. Youd be in danger too if you get involved in this!


    The Bear Mountain Sect Master looked at Fang Chen with a frown. Zhong Ying, who is he?


    Zhong Ying quickly exined Fang Chens origin, including their encounter with the Golden-eyed Demon Ape. Their sect members lifted their heads proudly when they heard that the fae escaped upon hearing their sect name.


    You dare interfere in this matter? Xian Kuns face darkened when he heard Fang Chens words. He turned to the Greatsword Gate Master and said, Father, that man there is from the northern region. From his dress-up, hes most likely from a distinguished n. Why dont we kill him as a tribute to affirm our southern regions determination?


    Senior Xian, you mustnt do that! He has nothing to do with this! Zhong Ying was horrified.


    Oh? A northerner? The Greatsword Gate Master eyed Fang Chen before turning to the surrounding martial artists with a smile. Everyone, stop for a moment.


    The martial artists stopped in their tracks and turned to the Greatsword Gate Master with a perplexed frown.


    A few Greatsword Gates disciples stepped forward and dragged Fang Chen and Yuan Zhuang away. Zhong Ying tried to stop them, but the Bear Mountain Sect Master stopped her.


    My disciple, the situation is not in our favor. You shouldnt act in a way that might bring disaster upon our Bear Mountain Sword Sect, the Bear Mountain Sect Master quietly advised.


    Zhong Ying felt self-reproach as she watched as Fang Chen was dragged away. Her eyes reddened. He wouldnt have faced such a disaster if I didnt bring him here


    The Greatsword Gates disciples pushed the two of them out.


    The Bear Mountain Sword Sects disciples, who had apanied them all the way here, looked upon this sight with conflicted feelings.


    Huangfu Jie, Jue Panshi, and the others were astounded when they saw Fang Chen and Yuan Zhuang.


    Everyone, these two people here are from the northern region. The fact that they appeared here at this timing suggests that they arent of ordinary standing. Why dont we first kill them today as tribute to our uing conference? the Greatsword Gate Master said with a smile.


    They are northerners?


    Kill them!


    Many of the martial artists red at the two of them with reddened eyes. They harbored great hostility toward the northern region for having gotten in the way of their business.


    Huangfu Jie and the others stared at this sight with incredulous eyes. <em>They are intending to use Great Xias strongest man, War God Fang, as tribute?</em>


    They prompted them to look at the Greatsword Gate Master and Fang Chen. <em>There isnt even thirty meters between them. With such a distance, Fang Chen only needs the briefest instant to take his life </em>

 Chapter 127: Even Faes Fear Him

    Chapter 127: Even Faes Fear Him


    Fellow sect masters, as a symbol of our determination, why dont each of us unleash one move on him? The Greatsword Gate Master gestured to Fang Chen as he addressed the crowd.


    Very well! I reckon that that northerner is either a spy or a scout. We ought to kill him! The g Mountain Sect Master harrumphed as he raised his word and walked toward Fang Chen.


    A few other sect masters also began making their way toward Fang Chen to express their determination before the Greatsword Gate Master.


    Allow me to go first!


    With a roar, Xian Kun charged at Fang Chen with his great sword. The other sect masters stepped aside to give way to him. They had no choice but to do so since Xian Kun was the son of Greatsword Gate Master Xian Wuchang!


    Should Xian Wuchang be the southern regions martial emperor, Xian Kun would be the southern regions crown prince. It would be unwise to offend such a person.


    It took only a moment for Xian Kun to reach Fang Chen. Without any hesitation, he swung his great sword down on Fang Chens head.


    Hes going to kill him just like that?


    Forget it, theres another one.


    The crowd muttered among themselves.


    Fang Chens eyes remained closed, but he emanated a transcendent air that far surpassed any of the martial artists present. That only stoked Xian Kuns animosity, and he exerted even more strength into his great sword.


    Zhong Ying and the others closed their eyes. They couldnt bear to watch the scene.


    Secondster, they sensed that something was amiss. <em>Why is it so quiet? Young master Li didnt even let out a cry? </em>Thus, Zhong Ying and the others hurriedly opened their eyes, only to be met with a shocking sight.


    Fang Chen had caught Xian Kuns great sword between his fingers. Xian Kun tried to pull and push, to the extent where his face had turned red, but the great sword refused to budge at all.


    Sss!


    Many people in the crowd gasped. <em>Is young master Li actually a prodigious martial artist too?</em>


    Xian Kun was a Ki Explosion martial artist, and the disciples of the Greatsword Gate practiced powerful moves with unparalleled might. Yet, Fang Chen was able to stop the attack with two of his fingers. This put Xian Kun in an awkward position.


    Damn it! Xian Kun red at Fang Chen viciously. <em>This dipshit is actually a hidden expert! I got careless and embarrassed myself in front of so many martial artists. How am I to face the others in the future? </em>


    ng!


    Fang Chen flicked his finger, and the fine steel great sword shattered into pieces.


    Watching as his weapon was reduced to smithereens, Xian Kuns eyes widened in shock.


    Is this an expert from the northern region?


    He didnt even open his eyes at all! He defeated Xian Kun with closed eyes!


    The other sect masters were surprised, but that was all there was to it. They were able to perform the same feat as Fang Chen had just pulled off too.


    Which sect are you from? Xian Wuchang asked Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen chuckled under his breath. Xian Wuchang, you wish to be the southern regions martial emperor?


    Xian Wuchang was silent for a few seconds before replying, Is there a problem with that?


    Great Xias emperor might be a bastard, but if you proim yourself emperor too, there will surely be a fight between the north and the south. You and the others might benefit from it, but themon popce will struggle to even feed themselves, Fang Chen said. Why dont you heed my advice and be content with being your Greatsword Gate Master?


    Who do you think you are? A mere junior like you dares to utter such arrogant words to Gate Master Xian! Our southern region is going to rebel today! What can you do about that? the g Mountain Sect Master sneered.


    It looks like youre all blind! Huangfu Jie, who had been silent all this while, couldnt hold it in any longer and burst intoughter. He turned to Fang Chen and sped his fist and bowed. Young master, our Profound Saber Sect would have be history if you arrived anyter.


    Paying respect to Imperial Duke Fang! The Profound Saber Sect Master bowed to Fang Chen, and their hundreds of disciples quickly followed suit.


    <em>Imperial Duke Fang?</em>


    The crowd was first stupefied before taking in a sharp inhtion of air. They stared at Fang Chen in disbelief. <em>This extremely young man over here is Great Xias number one martial artist, Fang Chen?!</em>


    B-Big Senior Sister he is War God Fang? a Bear Mountain Sword Sects disciple stuttered.


    Zhong Ying was in disbelief too.


    The Bear Mountain Sect Master looked at Zhong Ying with a frown and asked, You said earlier that a fae was intimidated by the name of our Bear Mountain Sword Sect. By any chance was Imperial Duke Fang present too?


    Yes Zhong Ying nodded in a daze.


    The others immediately understood what was going on. <em>So, the fae wasnt intimidated by our name. Rather, it retreated because it recognized Imperial Duke Fang!</em>


    Even faes fear him The Bear Mountain Sword Sects disciples who had traveled together with Fang Chen exchanged shocked looks.


    Y-y-you are Xian Kun pointed at Fang Chen with a ghastly pale face. He was so shocked that he couldnt utter a coherent sentence.


    The g Mountain Sect Master and the others were stunned too. Huge beads of sweat trickled from their foreheads.


    Xian Wuchang snapped out of his daze, and his expression was unprecedentedly severe. Staring intently at Fang Chen, he asked, You are nning


    But before he could finish his words, Jue Panshi suddenly rushed out, kneeled to Fang Chen, and eximed, Imperial Duke Fang, you have finally arrived! Xian Wuchang and the others are plotting a rebellion! I humbly believe that we have to do a thorough cleansing of the sects in the Nine Commanderies. They dont know their ce anymore. To think they dream of installing their own emperor! This is utterly atrocious!


    Xian Wuchang and the others were shaken by that ratting out.


    However, Xian Wuchang quickly calmed down and said, Imperial Duke Fang, since youre here, allow me to ask you a question on behalf of myrades from the Nine Commanderies.


    Go ahead. Fang Chen smiled.


    Can the southern region maintain its current order? If so, Ill leave with the others right now, Xian Wuchang said.


    The southern region has been in chaos since my grandfathers era. My grandfather wasnt confident of dealing with it, so he left it be. However, the southern region only continued to grow more chaotic with time. You people colluded with officials to squeeze dry themon popce. Countless have suffered because of you.


    The southern region is already scarce in resources. Your wilful actions only further worsen the situation. The poption in the southern region has been decreasing over time; most people either choose to leave on their own ord, or that they are unable to feed their children.


    Without sufficient people, the southern region will only grow poorer. This is a vicious cycle. At this rate, its only a matter of time before the only ones left in the southern region are you martial artists, Fang Chen said. Is this what you wish to happen?


    Fearmongering! Xian Wuchang harrumphed. Ill take this to mean that Imperial Duke Fang is determined to reorganize our southern region and its martial artists?


    Fang Chen nodded.


    Very well. Consider this a rebellion then. The experts of different sects are gathered here today, and they number eight thousand. I wonder how many of us can Imperial Duke Fang kill today, Xian Wuchang sneered.


    Xian Kun quietly backed away, not wanting to get caught in the crossfire, but Fang Chen suddenly raised his hand and dragged him back through an invisible force. His neck flew right into Fang Chens grasp.


    Fang Chen casually tossed Xian Kun aside, and thetter fell into Huangfu Jies hands.


    Hold him. Well execute him after this is all over, Fang Chen instructed.


    Yes, young master. Huangfu Jie nodded.


    He crippled Xian Kuns ki sea with a palm strike before passing the fainted Xian Kun to the other Profound Saber Sects disciples to deal with.


    Xian Wuchang remained unmoved, though the veins popping from his temples hinted at how infuriated he was.


    Not all of you have preyed on themon popce. If so, I dont n on dealing with you. Carefully think things through. Do you intend to rebel alongside Xian Wuchang? Fang Chen opened his grayish-white eyes and looked at the crowd.

 Chapter 128: I Deserve My Loss

    Chapter 128: I Deserve My Loss


    Xian Wuchang was taken aback. He hurriedly made his own statement to rally the other martial artists to his side, Dont be fooled by him! You can be certain that he wille after those who are here today. He wont let you go even if you retreat now!


    Some of the sects were wavering, but those words dispelled their cowardice.


    However, there were also sects who disagreed with Xian Wuchangs methods, and they didnt hesitate to make their choice.


    Our Bear Mountain Sword Sect refuses to take part in the rebellion, the Bear Mountain Sect Master dered before leading his disciples over to the Profound Saber Sects side.


    With him taking the lead, a few other sects decided not to partake in the rebellion too. All in all, they numbered around 800 martial artists.


    However, this isnt enough to turn the tides.


    Xian Wuchang breathed a sigh of relief. He turned to the defected sects and sneered, You have made the wrong choice today. You can be certain this will bring a cmity upon your sects.


    Ill presume the rest of you have made up your mind to rebel? Fang Chen asked.


    A martial artist bellowed, Youre determined to deal with us even if we dont rebel! If so, wed rather fight to our dying breath!


    Yes, that makes sense. Fang Chen nodded.


    The Moonsunk Gold Truncheon had appeared in his hand at some point. He lightly tapped it on the ground, and a terrifying flood of spirit ki gushed outward.


    The ground tore apart like a wave charging at Xian Wuchang and the others. The spirit ki was like an army of thousand cavalrymen, obliterating everything that stood in its path. None of the martial artists had any time to react before they were wiped clean.


    There wasnt even the slightest trace of blood or flesh left of them.


    This force rippled for almost a kilometer away, destroying everything in its path, be it humans, nts, ornd. The only thing left in its wake was a giant hole.


    4000 martial artists died in a single move.


    The world fell silent.


    Huangfu Jie and the others were in disbelief. Fang Chens means far surpassed their wildest imagination.


    I-is this the power of an Earth Profound martial artist? The Bear Mountain Sect Master was appalled.


    Zhong Ying and the others looked at Fang Chen with a weird feeling of dissonance. <em>I would have never expected the gentle Imperial Duke Fang who traveled here with us would actually possess such brutal means!</em>


    This attack didnt cause the slightest noise. None of the disappeared martial artists had the time to scream in agony. It was ever so peaceful, such that it didnt even rm the birds in the forest.


    Yet, the only word that they found apt to describe this situation was savage.


    Thousands of people vanished in an instant. Just what kind of terrifying means was this?!


    Those martial artists who were fortunate to have survived the attack were dazed for several seconds before they snapped out of it. There were no other emotions left in their eyes other than utter fear. They had lost their fighting will.


    How could they oppose something like this? The enemy had eradicated thousands of their people with just a single strike. Even the powerful sect masters werent able to fight back at all!


    Kneel down, Fang Chen ordered.


    Nearly all of the survivors immediately kneeled down. Other than the surviving members of the Greatsword Gate, there was hardly anyone who dared to continue standing.


    So this is an Earth Profound martial artist? Xian Wuchang was rendered speechless.


    Earth Profound martial artists are no more than ants in my eyes. Fang Chen shook his head.


    Ssss!


    Be it Xian Wuchang or Huangfu Jie, all of them gasped in shock. <em>Has Fang Chens martial cultivation reached such a high level that even Earth Profound martial artists are ants to him?</em>


    I deserve my loss. Xian Wuchang looked bitter. A secondter, he changed his tone and said, Imperial Duke Fang, I have lost, but the southern region is still the southern region. You cant hope to change it.


    They wont oppose me, Fang Chen said. All humans fear death.


    Xian Wuchangs face turned ghastly pale. <em>Indeed, the southern region wouldnt stand a chance against such terrifying prowess. Few would dare to oppose him</em>


    Kneel down. Fang Chen looked at Xian Wuchang.


    Xian Wuchang looked as if all energy had been sapped from him. He despondently kneeled onto the ground, and all of the disciples of the Greatsword Gate followed suit. They hung their heads in destion, and their faces were pale.


    Haa


    Some of the standing martial artists sighed and kneeled down too. They didnt know what was awaiting them, but as long as there was a sliver of hope to survive, they wouldnt give up on it.


    Its over? Just like that? Quite a few of the Profound Saber Sects disciples were confused.


    This should have escted into one of the biggest battles ever seen in the southern region, but Fang Chen single-handedly suppressed it. This made the revolution look like a farce.


    Jue Panshi, Fang Chen called out.


    Im here! Jue Panshi snapped out of his daze and ran up to Fang Chens side.


    I want a name list, Fang Chen calmly ordered.


    It took Jue Panshi a second to grasp what Fang Chen meant. He clenched his jaws and said, Please give me three days, Imperial Duke Fang. Ill deliver the name list to you by then!


    Just three days. Fang Chen nodded. He then turned to Huangfu Jie and asked, Does your Profound Saber Sect have enough rations to feed these people?


    We can head down the mountain to buy more if we dont have enough, Huangfu Jie replied.


    Good. Take them into custody. Fang Chen nodded.


    The Profound Saber Sect only had 500 people, and even when factoring those from the Bear Mountain Sword Sect and the others, they only had around 1300 people in total. It was no easy feat for 1300 people to take 3000 people into custody.


    Fortunately, most of those martial artists had lost their fighting will. They just wanted to appear obedient in hopes that Fang Chen would spare their lives. He might show leniency since they didnt even have time to really start their rebellion before it was quelled.


    Huangfu Jie personally took Xian Wuchang into custody. When they passed by Fang Chen, thetter flicked his finger and crippled Xian Wuchangs ki sea.


    Xian Wuchangsplexion swiftly turned increasingly pale, and he looked as if he had aged by a decade. The other sect masters who were being taken into custody were horrified to see that.


    They were relieved that Fang Chen didnt do the same to them.


    Fang Chen gave Jue Panshi three days to sort things out, but on the second day, many officials of the South Immortal Commandery visited the Profound Saber Sect to confess their crimes in hopes for a lighter sentence.


    Some heard the news and hurriedly escaped from the southern region too.


    Those who confessed to their crimes were those who werent deeply involved in this incident, whereas those who fled likely knew they would surely be executed if they stayed here.


    Jue Panshi executed a few centurions across the Valiant Defenders barracks and took control of the ten thousand elite troops once more. He then ordered his aides to pursue the officials who escaped.


    On the third day, Jue Panshi submitted a detailed name list to Fang Chen.


    Imperial Duke Fang, we have taken most of these people into custody. A few escaped, but I have ordered my men to pursue them. We should be able to capture them soon enough, Jue Panshi reported.


    Fang Chen browsed the name list and ticked twenty names. He then passed the list back to Jue Panshi and said, Execute those whose names I have ticked. As for the rest, get them to reflect on their actions.


    Jue Panshi hurriedly nodded. Yes, Imperial Duke Fang!

 Chapter 129: Pardon Me For This Disturbance, Your Highness

    Chapter 129: Pardon Me For This Disturbance, Your Highness


    A massive revolution happened in the South Immortal Commandery in the span of a few days. It involved over 400 officials and a total of 109 sects.


    Those who knew about this matter kept their mouths mum, whereas themon popce knew next to nothing about this at all. They only sensed that the trouble around them seemed to have greatly lessened.


    The martial artists who usually demanded protection fees from them were nowhere to be seen, and even if they asionally passed by them on the streets, those martial artists would put up a humble and respectful attitude.


    The Auspicious King Manor was located in the South Immortal Commanderys most affluent Soaring Light City, which was around fifteen kilometers away from the Profound Saber Sect.


    As a half-sibling of the Great Xias emperor, the Auspicious King was ninth in terms of seniority. He had disyed outstanding talent in managing military affairs back in his younger years, so the previous emperor bestowed the entire southern region to him.


    Thirty years had passed since.


    The Auspicious King anxiously paced around his solemn and dignified manor. His consort and eight good-looking sons and daughters nervously looked at him.


    Your Highness, is there no chance to turn things around? the Auspicious King Consort couldnt hold it in anymore and asked.


    Turn things around? The Auspicious King looked at her with a vexed smile.  Fang Chen killed thousands of martial artists with a single strike. How do you expect us to turn things around? His means far exceeds my imagination!


    There was a brief pause before hemented. I thought that an Earth Profound martial artist would still be no more than a mere martial artist, but who could have thought that he possesses such overwhelming means?


    No matter how powerful he is, he is a subject, whereas youre the Ninth King. The southern region is your conferrednd. The Great Xias emperor is your older brother! Fang Chen might be bold, but surely he wouldnt dare toy his hand on you? the Auspicious King Consort said with a frown.


    He is the Xia Imperial Duke; my older brother personally conferred the title to him. That is a transcendental position. If we get down to the semantics, his standing is half a rank higher than my Auspicious King! the Auspicious King grimly replied. Given my brothers personality, he wouldnt have bestowed this title to Fang Chen unless he was cornered. Even my brother cant curb Fang Chen, let alone me!


    But father, so what if hes the Xia Imperial Duke? Hes still an outsider. I dont believe hed dare to kick a fuss in our Auspicious King Manor! one of the youths spoke up.


    He was the Auspicious Kings eldest son, Xia Song.


    Big brother is right! Killing a member of the imperial family is equivalent to revolting. No matter how bold Fang Chen is, he wouldnt dare to do that! Xia Songs younger siblings voiced their agreement for his words.


    He wont kill me. The Auspicious King shook his head. But all of the arrangements I have made over the years will be going down the drain. Well have to live with our tails between our legs in the southern region from this day onward.


    This notion was even more terrifying than death to the Auspicious King. He had carefully schemed to put his ns into motion for so many years, only to suddenly lose. It was hard toe to terms with it in the spur of a moment.


    I can only say that I was born in the wrong era. For centuries, there hasnt been an Earth Profound martial artist in Great Xia, but Fang Chen suddenly appeared out of nowhere! On top of that, his means surpasses that of ordinary Earth Profound martial artists. I wouldnt have made such a risky move if not for him defeating Chillwaters Ji Lengyue and Nightmare Knights! The Auspicious King looked defeated.


    Save me, Your Highness!


    A middle-aged man suddenly stumbled into the manor and kneeled before the Auspicious King. Not even the guards were able to stop him in time.


    Xia Song and the others looked conflicted.


    The middle-aged man was the South Immortal Commandery Chief, a second-grade official just like the Six Ministers. Yet, such a powerful man was reduced to such a pitiful state, looking like an old farmer who had hisnd taken away because he couldnt afford thend tax, all because of Fang Chen.


    The Auspicious King looked at the middle-aged man withplicated eyes and sighed. Get up, Commandery Chief Li.


    Commandery Chief Li remained in a kneeling position and kept kowtowing. Your Highness, please save me!


    You shouldnt be asking me that. Look for Fang Chen instead. He might spare you in view that youre a high-ranking official. The Auspicious King shook his head.


    Your Highness, my aides have been captured, and Jue Panshi has snatched away the troops under me. Imperial Duke Fang has clearly made up his mind to reorganize the South Immortal Province! I havemitted many crimes serving Your Highness. If hees after me too, Id be sentenced to death! Commandery Chief Li cried. Your Highness, youre a member of the imperial family. Im begging you, please save my life. Im not asking for much. I just hope to be able to return to the capital and live out my days in peace


    Just then, a servant suddenly rushed in horror. Your Highness, I-Imperial Duke Fang is here! General Linghu has stopped him at the doorway for now. General Linghu ordered me to seek your orders as to whether we should allow him in


    The Auspicious King, the Auspicious King Consort, Commandery Chief Li, Xia Song, and the others were startled.


    <em>Fang Chen is here?</em>


    Outside the Auspicious King Manor, Fang Chen, along with Jue Panshi and a few other Valiant Defenders, were surrounded by over a hundred guards. These guards wore exquisite armor, and the weapons they held were of top-notch quality.


    The leader of the guards was a young general with a tall and muscr physique. He looked at Fang Chen with conflicted eyes as he said, Imperial Duke Fang, I have sent my men to inform His Highness about your arrival. I cant allow you to enter without His Highness permission, and I ask for your understanding regarding that.


    Linghu Xu, you should know why Imperial Duke Fang is here today. Get lost! Jue Panshi harrumphed.


    I only report to the Auspicious King. Chiliarch Jue, youre overstepping your boundaries, Linghu Xu calmly replied.


    Jue Panshis face darkened. He turned to Fang Chen and muttered, Imperial Duke Fang, Linghu Xu was from the Carefree Pce. While Xian Wuchang was the one who headed the revolution, and the Carefree Pce never made an appearance from the start to the end, that doesnt prove that they werent involved in it.


    Be patient. The Auspicious King will meet me. Fang Chen smiled.


    Jue Panshi decided to keep quiet and wait patiently.


    Soon, a person came out and told Linghu Xu, General Linghu, His Highness invites Imperial Duke Fang into the manor.


    This way please, Imperial Duke Fang. Linghu Xu stepped aside.


    Under the escort of the hundred elite guards, Fang Chen was brought to the Auspicious King Manors main hall, where he was warmly weed by the Auspicious King.


    Imperial Duke Fang, it has been many years! Pardon ourck of hospitality.


    The Auspicious King Consort stood beside the Auspicious King with a bright smile.


    Xia Song and the others stood behind them, and they couldnt help but assess Fang Chen. They had never met Fang Chen before; they had only heard about his affairs.


    <em>He is indeed very young</em> Xia Song thought with a slight frown. He was older than Fang Chen, as well as a member of the imperial family, yet his reputation in Great Xia didnt even amount to a thousandth of Fang Chens.


    Youre too courteous, Your Highness. Fang Chen sped his fist with a smile. He eyed Commandery Chief Li, who sat by the corner with a hanging head, and chuckled. Youre here as well, Commandery Chief Li.


    Commandery Chief Li shook as if he had been struck by lightning. He awkwardly raised his head and looked at Fang Chen with a strained smile. Imperial Duke Fang


    Take him down, Fang Chen ordered.


    Jue Panshi and his subordinates rushed at Commandery Chief Li and tied him up. Thetter screamed in horror.


    Linghu Xu tried to make a move, but the Auspicious King stopped him with a raise of his hand. The crowd watched as Jue Panshi and the others carried the bound Commandery Chief Li over to Fang Chens side.


    Pardon me for this disturbance, Your Highness. Fang Chen smiled.

 Chapter 130: Unforgivable Criminal

    Chapter 130: Unforgivable Criminal


    Imperial Duke Fang, the southern region is a special ce. Its inevitable that there will be some conflicts with the northern region. Wont you consider sparing Commandery Chief Li on my ount? the Auspicious King asked with a sigh.


    Your Highness, Im afraid I cant do that. He has to die. Fang Chen nced at Commandery Chief Li and shook his head.


    The Auspicious King didnt say a word, but his children werent able to hold it in.


    Imperial Duke Fang, we are a country governed byws. Commandery Chief Li is a grade-2 official. Its not your ce to sentence him even if he deserves death, Xia Song said.


    We are a country governed byws, but I have my principles too. In the 23 years of my life, I have never put Great Xia ahead of myself. Im sure His Highness should understand that better than anyone else, Fang Chen said.


    Such sphemous words were being tantly uttered, yet the Auspicious King didnt lose his temper. Instead, he nodded as if he had already expected this.


    Xia Song and the others were stunned.


    But Commandery Chief Li doesnt deserve death, the Auspicious King remarked.


    Commandery Chief Li was moved to see how the Auspicious King kept trying to protect him.


    Commandery Chief Li might have failed to keep his troops in line, resulting in chaos in the southern regions pugilistic world, but the matter has already been resolved. There was hardly any damage done, Xia Song added.


    Chiliarch Jue, Fang Chen called out.


    Jue Panshi nodded. He took out a book and read out loud, The fourth month of this year, seventeen maids in the Commandery Chief Manor were killed. Their families sent them to the Commandery Chief Manor because they didnt have enough rations to pay for taxes, and their familiesnd was confiscated by Commandery Chief Li.


    The first maid was beaten to death because the water she brought for the feet washing basin was too cold.


    The second maid shattered one of Commandery Chief Lis concubines vases, so she was hung from the beam and exposed under the sun for days before she died of dehydration.


    The third maid


    Other than that, Commandery Chief Li and his subordinates are responsible for over a thousand deaths in the South Immortal Province. On average, they would go on a ughter once every three days and go on a rampage once every seven days. His crimes are unforgivable!


    Fang Chen shook his head. Thats a thousand people. Its rare for there to be a thousand deaths even if I bring 10,000 soldiers out for a military operation.


    Commandery Chief Li was dumbfounded. He realized that his aides had betrayed him, and his face turned pale. Large beads of sweat trickled down his face.


    The Auspicious King and the others were tongue-tied too.


    By the time Jue Panshi was done reciting the crimes, Xia Song blurted out, Are those true? But Commandery Chief Li doesnt look like such a violent man


    You have let me down. The Auspicious King looked at Commandery Chief Li with disappointed eyes.


    Its fake! Its all fake! Your Highness, you mustnt listen to Jue Panshis words! Hes a chiliarch of the Valiant Defenders! His words cant be trusted! Commandery Chief Li eximed.


    However, the Auspicious King only sighed. Imperial Duke Fang wouldnt have marched into my manor if he didn''t have concrete evidence in hand. You need not argue anymore.


    He turned to Fang Chen and sped his fist. Imperial Duke Fang, you may sentence him however you wish. I shant interfere in this matter anymore.


    Your Highness, I agree with your sentiment that the southern region is different from the north. We cant govern these two ces in the same manner. Nevertheless, thats no reason for the martial artists to stage a revolt.


    Even if the rebellion did seed, Your Highness, are you confident of changing the situation in the southern region? Otherwise, youll just be reduced to a glorified book reciter for them. Those martial artists wont give up on their interests that easily. The southern region wont change over a rebellion; if anything, itll just worsen, Fang Chen said.


    The Auspicious King widened his eyes. The Auspicious King Consort turned to him with nervous eyes. Xia Song and the others clenched their fists tightly as they traded gaze with Linghu Xu.


    Linghu Xu had been from the Carefree Pce, and he was currently serving as the Auspicious Kings general. He was the strongest martial artist in the Auspicious King Manor, so they had no one else but him to fall back on.


    Haa The Auspicious King sighed. I was foolish. I was blinded by the Carefree Pce and failed to consider the pros and cons of this matter. My family members have nothing to do with this, so I hope Imperial Duke Fang can show them mercy.


    Your Highness?! Linghu Xu was stunned. How does this matter involve the Carefree Pce? The elders in our sect steer clear of secr affairs, so how can you make such an usation?


    You only see whats happening on the surface. The Auspicious King shook his head.


    Ill personally take a trip to the Carefree Pce. As for Your Highness I hope that you can show more concern to themon popce. If you require any help, you may look for me at the cold spring outside the city. Our Fang n is constructing a manor there, Fang Chen said before taking his leave.


    The Auspicious King Consort and the others were overjoyed. They thought that Fang Chen would make a move on them, but he left withoutying a finger on them.


    Father, is the Fang n going to move into our southern region?! Xia Song was startled.


    <em>What is Imperial Duke Fang thinking? He actually gave up on the prosperity of the capital to move to this barrennd! Just the climate here is already hostile enough to turn others away!</em>


    It looks like the Fang n is determined to resolve the southern regions chaos. Anyone who wishes to cause trouble here in the future will have to consider whether its worth incurring the Fang ns ire the Auspicious King murmured.


    He didnt think that the Fang n would take such drastic action either.


    Your Highness Linghu Xu hesitantly murmured.


    You have been away from the Carefree Pce for many years now, so you need not bother. Yes, the Carefree Pce was one of the masterminds pushing this matter forward. I wanted to make use of this incident to establish new rules for the southern region, thinking that it would be beneficial for this ce.


    But I didnt know that Commandery Chief Li was inflicting such cruelty on his people all along, and I reckon hes just one of the many. I dont have the means to discern who truly cares about the people, and who is just after power. For now Im only d that Imperial Duke Fang has taken over this matter.


    The Auspicious King exhaled deeply before turning to Xia Song with a smile. The Fang n will be residing right outside the Soaring Light City from now onward. You should pay them a visit whenever you have time.


    Yes, father, Xia Song and the others replied.


    Your Highness, are we safe now? the Auspicious King Consort asked.


    That should be the case, but for now lets live an honest life. You should be kinder to your servants from now onward. Imperial Duke Fang doesnt look like hell tolerate any cruelty under his watch, the Auspicious King said.


    The Auspicious King Consort shuddered as she took the Auspicious Kings words to heart.


    Outside the Auspicious King Manor, Jue Panshi thought about what had happened with a frown. He finally figured out that Greatsword Gate Master Xian Wuchang was nothing but a pawn in the recent upheaval, but it was a pity that thetter probably didnt know that.


    <em>But why did Fang Chen spare the Auspicious King, the man behind it all?</em>


    Imperial Duke Fang, arent you worried that history might repeat itself if you spare the Auspicious King? Jue Panshi finally asked. He simply had to know what Fang Chens stance regarding this matter was.


    Do you think such things will still happen now that our Fang n is residing right outside the Soaring Light City? Fang Chen asked with a chuckle.


    Jue Panshi widened his eyes in realization.


    Itll only cause more problems if I deal with him. Itll stir controversies in the capital. I wont be fazed by it, but itll affect the governance of the southern region. Whats important is to deal with the root of the affliction, Fang Chen replied.


    And the root you speak of is


    The martial artists who harbor great ambitions.


    Those words told Jue Panshi that there would be another purge in the southern regions Nine Commanderies, with the Carefree Pce being at the top of the list.

 Chapter 131: Enlightenment Heaven Supreme

    Chapter 131: Enlightenment Heaven Supreme


    Of the southern regions Nine Commanderies, the South Halberd Commandery was the toughest ce to live in. Its climate was worse than the South Immortal Commandery, with furious gale raging now and then on already scarce farnds.


    It wouldnt have been suited for anyone to live in if not for a Great Xia Rivers fork flowing into the South Halberd Commandery.


    Young master, the Carefree Pce resides in the South Halberd Commandery. Does the Carefree Pce really have a hand in Xian Wuchangs rebellion? Could the Auspicious King simply be looking for a scapegoat to push away his responsibility in the matter? Jue Panshi wiped off his sweat as he asked.


    The climate here was difficult for even a Ki Explosion martial artist like him to bear. It seemed unlikely for someone who resided in such a difficult ce to harbor wild ambitions.


    Theres no reason for the Auspicious King to look for a scapegoat. It doesnt matter to him whether he outed the Carefree Pce at all. He only revealed their involvement because he wanted a conclusion for this matter, lest they wreak havoc in the future, Fang Chen said.


    My grandfather already knew that something was off about the Carefree Pce back then, and through years of investigation, he was able to figure out bits and pieces about its history.


    <em>The Carefree Pces history?</em>


    Jue Panshi looked at the mountainous path they were treading on. At the end of this path was the Carefree Pce. Ordinary people wouldnt even find it.


    <em>What history does the Carefree Pce have?</em>


    They are the remnants of an empire that wandered into Great Xia. Theyy low for many years, hoping to make use of us to avenge them, Fang Chen replied as he scaled the mountain.


    Jue Panshi and the others were taken aback. <em>Does the Carefree Pce have such a background?</em>


    Momentster, the group arrived before a massive monastery that gave off a dignified air.


    Ill knock on the door, Jue Panshi said as he stepped forward.


    However, Fang Chen waved his hand and said, Dont bother. Theres no one here. Lets head in to take a look.


    <em>Theres no one here? Have the members of the Carefree Pce fled?</em>


    Jue Panshi was perplexed. He didnt think that the Carefree Pce could have reacted that fast. Even if they had a spy, it should take some time for the news to reach them.


    With a doubtful heart, he smashed the monastery gate and entered with his men. Theybed the area, but there was not a person to be seen. The ce was deste aside from asional bird calls.


    Some of the Valiant Defenders looked at Fang Chen with respectful eyes. Thetter was able to tell the Carefree Pce was empty just by standing outside. His means far surpassed that of mortals like them.


    Young master, theres really not a single person in the Carefree Pce. They have escaped Jue Panshi headed to the main hall, where he found Fang Chen quietly standing before the Enlightenment Heaven Supremes divine idol, and reported his finding.


    He waited seconds, but Fang Chen was so focused on the divine idol that he didnt reply. Scratching his head sheepishly, he ordered his subordinates to stand guard at every corner of the hall while he quietly waited.


    What he didnt know was that Fang Chen had drawn out his soul and was staring at the Enlightenment Heaven Supremes divine idol in astonishment.


    This seemingly ordinary divine idol looked extraordinary in his eyes. It emanated a faint golden glow, and white smoke could be seen flowing from the surroundings into the divine idol.


    Could this be the incense from Great Xias people? It is true? Fang Chen was astonished.


    <em>If the white smoke is incense offered by the people, does it mean that Enlightenment Heaven Supreme truly exists in this world, and that there is such an immortal in the world?</em>


    While he was processing the situation, the eyes of the Enlightenment Heaven Supreme suddenly turned and fell on him.


    An astral projecting daoist? the Enlightenment Heaven Supreme said. No, you only have five immortal veins in you. Youre at fifth stage Ki Refinement?


    It eyed Fang Chen intently as it remarked, Your soul is exceptionally condensed. Have you consumed any of the Saint-tier spirit medicine on the Spirit Medicine Ranking in your younger years?


    Fang Chen suppressed his astonishment to appear as calm as possible. This was not the first time he had encountered such a situation. Elder Cloudcrane had also noticed the same about his back then.


    You are Enlightenment Heaven Supreme? Fang Chen asked with a respectful voice.


    Yes, thats me. The Enlightenment Heaven Supremes voice became ethereal and lofty, as he assessed Fang Chen from head to toe. I never thought an anomaly like you would be born in a country worshiping me. Tell me, what kind of spirit medicine did you consume?


    I have never consumed any spirit medicine. Fang Chen sped his fist.


    No? The Enlightenment Heaven Supremes voice carried a hint of doubt, but he chose not to pursue this matter. Youre in a grade-9 state? Its rare for a cultivator to be born in such a ce. You are one of my people, since you were born in a ce that worships me. Since fate brought us together, Ill bestow you with a cultivation manual.


    The Enlightenment Heaven Supreme slowly raised his hand and created an invisible imprint, which gave rise to a cultivation method in Fang Chens head. It was a Ki Refinement cultivation method, covering from the first stage to the twelfth stage.


    Ill also bestow you with a hundred low-grade ki stones. It formed another hand seal, and a map surfaced in Fang Chens head. Head to the location. You will find a hundred low-grade ki stones there. However, it might be difficult for you to head there right now. You should wait till you reach twelfth stage Ki Refinement first.


    Fang Chen looked at the map in his head. It was iplete, but it had a location indicated on it. However, he had never heard of this ce before: Coldreturn.


    When he inspected the nearby geography, he was shocked to notice that this Coldreturn was located near Chillwater.


    All right, I cant stay in the mortal world for too long, so Ill bid you farewell now. If you face problems in your cultivation, you may astral project and seek my divine idols for advice, the Enlightenment Heaven Supreme said before the divine idol slowly reverted to normal.


    Fang Chen knew what he had just experienced wasnt just a hallucination. He returned his soul into his body before turning to Jue Panshi. Lets go.


    <em>Were leaving just like that? </em>


    Jue Panshi was stunned, but he obediently left the area with Fang Chen.


    When they reached the foot of the mountain, Fang Chen suddenly turned around to look at the Carefree Pce with grim and fearful eyes. <em>A cultivator pretending to be an immortal is likely to be anything but trustworthy.</em>


    Daoist Cloudcrane had once told him that even he didnt know whether immortals truly existed in the world or not, and Enlightenment Heaven Supreme calling him an astral projecting daoist had already inadvertently exposed his identity.


    Unlike Daoist Cloudcrane, this Enlightenment Heaven Supreme looked like an evil cultist!


    As for the Enlightenment Ki Refinement Form that he had imparted to him, Fang Chen had no intention of practicing it, and he wasnt nning to let anyone else practice it either. He feared that practicing this skill would leave something on them, and the Enlightenment Heaven Supreme might just be able to do something to them through it.


    Shortly after Fang Chen left, the Enlightenment Heaven Supremes divine idol moved once more. A Saint-tier spirit medicine from the Spirit Medicine Ranking As long as he practices the Enlightenment Ki Refinement Form, Id be able to keep track of his location. I might just be able to find where the Saint-tier spirit medicine grows through that.

 Chapter 132: The Shocked Xia Song

    Chapter 132: The Shocked Xia Song


    While Fang Chen didnt find the martial artists who had been raising a storm during his trip to Carefree Pce, it did alert him to the existence of the Enlightenment Heaven Supreme. The other party was likely to be a powerful cultivator far above him now.


    That should mean to say that the other countries worshiping the Enlightenment Heaven Supreme are steadily providing incense energy to him. The other immortals worshiped by the other countries are likely real cultivators walking down a simr road too.


    Abbess Clearlotus and Li Daoye appear to be unaware of this matter, so its unlikely that their sects know about it too. Clearly, this is quite a discreet path. I wouldnt have found it either if not for my ability to astral project.


    Fang Chen couldnt help but think that the path to immortality was filled with all sorts of wonders and bizarreness. Cultivators possessed all kinds of different means. Had he not stepped onto this path himself, he would have never found out about them in his lifetime.


    Li Daoye might be a cultivator too, but he definitely didnt know that cultivators could cultivate through the power of incense too. In a way, this made him no different from mortals.


    Young master, should we put the Carefree Pce on arrest warrant? Jue Panshi asked.


    Theres no need for that. Fang Chen shook his head. Apany me to the othermanderies. Well focus on stabilizing the southern region for now. By then, the Carefree Pce wont be able to stir anything even if it wanted to.


    For the next half a month, Fang Chen, Jue Panshi, and the others made their way to many different locations.


    They would be weed by the respectivemandery chiefs when they arrived at a new ce, and there would always be people imprisoned or executed when they left. It felt almost as if they were harbingers of chaos.


    Commandery Chief Lis death served as a warning.


    Fang Chen didnt make a move on the othermandery chiefs lest it cause greater instability. Even so, the othermandery chiefs fell in line when they saw the example being made of Commandery Chief Li. It also helped that Fang Chen would clip their wings to limit their powers whenever he visited a ce.


    There were people who tried to meddle with his ns, but all of them quickly backed down upon seeing his means.


    Many thought that Fang Chen would face great impediments, but in just half a month, he had already purged the southern region several times over.


    Jue Panshi and the others had apanied Fang Chen throughout the duration and personally witnessed the transformation, but his means only looked ever more unfathomable to them.


    Fang Chen hadnt cked off on his cultivation either. He used up the talisman papers and cinnabar he had brought with him, umting another huge stack of talismans. His spirit ki capacity significantly grew as a result.


    He wasnt far from manifesting his sixth immortal vein.


    Meanwhile, near the spirit spring, a majestic manor suddenly appeared out of nowhere within a short period of time. It was humongous, and there was even a bluestone road linking the manor to the main road.


    By the bluestone road was the spirit spring.


    The Fang Manor chose not to monopolize the spirit spring. Nearby civilians, tourists, and wild beasts were still able to ess the spring. In fact, it was even more convenient for them to do so now due to the bluestone path.


    The Fang n is going to be here for the long term


    Xia Song and his siblings were heading to the Fang Manor on horseback when they saw the beautiful bluestone paved road, as well as the massive manors that were still visible from a long distance away. This brought a conflicted look on their faces.


    Big brother, I heard that Imperial Duke Fang has traveled across the Nine Commanderies and stained his hand with a lot of fresh blood. He has at least sentenced 300 officials and martial artists to death!


    Thats why our father told us to get closer to the Fang Manor. The truth is that the southern region no longer belongs to our Auspicious King Manor anymore, Xia Song replied with a sigh.


    The group of them chatted while making their way to the Fang Manor.


    When they passed by the spirit spring, they alighted from their horses and had their fill of its refreshing, chilled water. It revitalized them.


    Big brother, why do you think the Fang n chose to build their manor here? I heard there are many wild beasts here, and there are even a few faes


    Could it be because of this cold spring?


    Surely not. Xia Song shook his head. This spring water might be sweet and refreshing, but thats not enough of a reason for the Fang n to move here. That being said, the climate here is indeed cooler, so that might have been what caught the Fang ns eye. As for the beasts and rumored faes the Fang n should have their means to deal with them.


    The youngest daughter of the Auspicious King was cleaning her face when she suddenly saw a reflection in the spring waterit was a massive wolf!


    The massive wolfs sinister green eyes were fixed on her, causing her to screech in fright. She even lost her footing and fell into the water.


    That rmed Xia Song and the others. They quickly turned their heads over, only to gasp when they saw the massive wolf too.


    The massive wolf growled before charging at them. That terrified the horses under them, and they shook them off their backs and ran off on their own.


    Save our Sixth Sister! Ill hold it off! Xia Song roared as he brandished his sword at the massive wolf.


    Meanwhile, the others quickly rescued their Sixth Sister from the water.


    By the time they dragged their Sixth Sister out, Xia Songs body was already covered with injuries, and his sword was bitten apart too.


    Even our big brother, a mid Ki Explosion martial artist, isnt a match for the wolf. Could it be one of the faes residing in the mountain? The other siblings were horrified.


    Xia Song fell on his bum.


    The massive wolf stared down on him from above. Just as it was about to munch down on him, a tigers roar echoed throughout the entire mountain.


    Without warning, an evenrger tiger lurched forth and tackled the massive wolf. This tiger had a white circle of fur reminiscent of mes around its neck.


    Kacha!


    The massive wolf didnt have time to react before the tiger chomped off its neck. All that was left in its eerie green eyes was fear.


    After killing the massive wolf, the tiger calmly looked at Xia Song and the others.


    W-what a huge tiger!


    Xia Song and his siblings were so frightened that their bodies hadpletely stiffened up, rendering them incapable of moving.


    Please dont kill my siblings! Eat me if you must! Xia Song cried with a pale face, knowing that it wouldnt stand a chance against the tiger at all.


    Who are you? Great Mountain Tiger wont eat you.


    Fang Zhixue suddenly flitted out of nowhere and leaped onto the tigers back. She gazed down on Xia Song and the others from above.


    This Xia Song and the others were stunned.


    Great Mountain Tigers lips crept up when it saw the shocked looks on the peoples face. It turned around and nuzzled against Fang Zhixue. This was its masters younger sister, after all, making her its Senior Aunt!


    M-miss, you are? Xia Song fumbled to his feet and looked at Fang Zhixue with uncertain eyes.


    I asked the question first. You havent told me who you are yet. Fang Zhixue frowned.


    Ah, ah! Xia Song quickly regained his bearing and pped his fist. I am Xia Song from the Auspicious King Manor. These are my younger siblings.


    So youre from the Auspicious King Manor! Fang Zhixue smiled. I am Fang Zhixue, Fang Chens little sister.


    <em>Fang Chens little sister, Fang Zhixue?!</em>


    Xia Song and his siblings first looked at Fang Zhixue, followed by Great Mountain Tiger, and it suddenly dawned on them why the Fang Manor chose to settle here.


    <em>The Fang n has already tamed the faes here!</em>

 Chapter 133: Returning to the Capital

    Chapter 133: Returning to the Capital


    Youre residing in the Soaring Light City, right? What brings you here? My big brother is still outside and hasnt returned yet, Fang Zhixue asked.


    Xia Song nervously nced at Great Mountain Tiger before squeezing out a strained smile. We heard that the Fang n is residing near the spirit spring, so we came here to pay a visit.


    Youre guests? Come with me. Fang Zhixue grinned.


    Great Mountain Tiger began heading toward the Fang Manor with her on its back.


    Xia Song and the others hade on horseback, but the earlier massive wolf had sent them fleeing in fright. This left them with no choice but to walk, but their height was nowhere close to Great Mountain Tiger, and Fang Zhixue was sitting on its back.


    This made them look like Fang Zhixues servants andckeys, but none of them dared to express any dissatisfaction. They nervously followed her.


    Imperial Duke Fangs means are incredible. He can even tame such faes


    Xia Song had been observing Great Mountain Tiger, and he could tell that thetter was stronger than the major sect masters. It was at least on par with Ki Manifestation martial artists!


    The Auspicious King Manor had been in the Soaring Light City for so many years, but they had never seen a fae, let alone tame one. It was as if the Fang n had a halo around them.


    They soon reached the Fang Manor.


    The Fang nsmen were ustomed to Great Mountain Tigers existence. Fang Chen had informed Fang Canghai about Great Mountain Tiger and the others before he left.


    Furthermore, Victorious Buddha, Great Mountain Tiger, and Azure Sky had been helping them chase off troublemaking faes during this period of time, allowing the Fang Manor to swiftly finish construction.


    Everyone on the Fang Manor, from the servants to Fang Zhentian, were already used to the three faes, and they knew that they were Fang Chens disciples.


    My parents are busy, so they wont be able to host you. You dont mind if I bring you around?


    Fang Zhixue leaped off Great Mountain Tigers back and patted its bum. Thetter caught the drift and took its leave.


    Xia Song and his siblings eyed Great Mountain Tiger as it left, and only after its figure was nowhere to be seen did they finally heave a sigh of relief.


    Of course not, of course not, Xia Song hurriedly replied.


    Good. Fang Zhixue nodded with a smile.


    She often hung out with martial artists back in the capital, so her demeanor was unlike that of a typical distinguished young miss. She was casual in her words and gestures, so the atmosphere wasnt too uptight.


    Xia Song and the others werent dissatisfied by her casual attitude. On the contrary, it helped them to recover from their earlier fright.


    Big sister Fang, was that massive tiger a fae? the Auspicious Kings youngest daughter, who was only thirteen years of age, asked out of curiosity.


    Xia Song was taken aback. Little Sister, dont ask unnecessary questions!


    Its nothing much. Its a matter of time before you know about it anyway, Fang Zhixue replied with a casual wave of her hand. Great Mountain Tiger is a fae, but it has been enlightened. Its currently my big brothers disciple.


    <em>Fang Chens disciple?!</em>


    Xia Song and his siblings were shocked. <em>Has Fang Chen reached a level where even faes want to take him as their master? </em>This made them realize that they knew next to nothing about him


    An hourter, Xia Song and the others stood up and took their leave.


    Just as they were walking out of the Fang Manor, they saw Fang Chen standing not far away with his back facing them. Behind him was a crouching Great Tiger Mountain, a kneeling ape, and a massive serpent!


    Xia Song and the others felt goosebumps all over.


    Big Brother, youre back! Fang Zhixue eximed.


    Mmhm. Fang Chen nodded. He looked at Xia Song and the others and acknowledged their presence with a nod.


    Imperial Duke Fang. Xia Song was the first one to greet Fang Chen.


    He couldnt help but nce at Victorious Buddha and Azure Sky. Victorious Buddha was evenrger than Great Mountain Tiger, whereas Azure Sky was as big as a bucket at its thickest area.


    Just looking at them sent shivers down his spine.


    <em>Faes! Even more faes!</em>


    The three faes appeared to have submitted to Fang Chen. Xia Song couldnt imagine what kind of means Fang Chen must possess for those faes to submit to him.


    Are you heading back now? Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    Urk. Y-yes, were heading back now. Xia Song nodded in a fluster.


    He quickly left with his siblings, his footsteps looking flustered. Just being there ced great psychological pressure on him. He feared that he might embarrass himself if he continued to linger around.


    After they left, Victorious Buddha turned to Fang Zhixue and politely greeted her, Senior Aunt.


    Hehe, youre too polite. Fang Zhixue grinned.


    She felt exhrated to have a fae possessing meansparable to a Ki Manifestation martial artist addressing her so respectfully.


    Did you stumble into any problems in your cultivation? Fang Chen asked.


    We did encounter some problems, but the Old Master has resolved our doubts, Victorious Buddha replied.


    Great Mountain Tiger and Azure Sky nodded as well.


    They were filled with awe for Fang Zhentian. Thetters cultivation wasnt as high as theirs, but his understanding of the Purple Aura Form was at least several times deeper.


    Thats good to hear. Fang Chen nodded. Ill be making a trip to the capital. Ill be counting on the three of you to take care of things here.


    Of course, master! Victorious Buddahe eximed. The other two faes nodded vehemently.


    Big brother, youre returning to the capital? Fang Zhixues eyes lit up.


    Dont harbor any thoughts. Visit the Soaring Light City, the Profound Saber Sect, or anywhere else if youre bored, but stay away from the capital for now. Fang Chen patted her head with a smile. Ill inform father and mother about it too. Ill be heading off tonight. Make sure you dontg behind in your cultivation, all right?


    All right, all right. Fang Zhixue sounded indignant.


    Fang Chen made his way toward Fang Zhentians courtyard.


    Fang Canghai and his wife, as well as Fang Cangyou, were cultivating there, but it was a pity that their aptitude was nowhere on par with Fang Zhentian. It had been some time now, but it didnt look like they were going to manifest their immortal vein anytime soon.


    But this was normal, considering how Li Daoye, someone who was born into a cultivator n, took a year to manifest his immortal vein. Mortals like Fang Canghai and the others were bound to face even more problems along the way.


    Dont interrupt them; they are busy cultivating. How did it go? Fang Zhentian asked.


    The southern region is stabilized for now. Fang Chen nodded with a smile. Ill be making a trip to the capitalter on.


    To deal with the Blood Spirit Cult? Fang Zhentian asked.


    Fang Chen nodded.


    Who are the ones colluding with the Blood Spirit Cult in the capital? Fang Zhentian asked.


    Im not sure yet, but Ill deal with every single one of them once I root out the Blood Spirit Cult, Fang Chen replied.


    Thats good. Fang Zhentian nodded. He patted Fang Chens shoulder. Be careful. Your safetyes first. Great Xia will be doomed if you die.


    I will. Fang Chen smiled.


    After chatting for a while longer, Fang Chen set off on his journey to the capital.


    Meanwhile, in Infernoze Country, Abbes Clearlotus looked at the Moon Monastery with eyes filled with nostalgia. She had finally returned after many years.


    Her travelingpanion, Tie Ma, exhaled deeply. It wasnt exactly a long journey, but it had broadened his horizon. If not for the Purple Lightning Talismans, the two of them might have died several times over.


    Senior Clearlotus?


    A nun walked out and was astonished to see Abbess Clearlotus.

 Chapter 134: A Deal

    Chapter 134: A Deal


    Big Brother Tie, this is my junior! Abbess Clearlotus was excited. She turned to the little nun, who looked to be around thirteen years old, and said, Junior, has our master emerged from her seclusion yet?


    The little nun eyed Tie Ma doubtfully as she replied, Senior Clearlotus, our master just came out of her seclusion yesterday. Didnt you head into the secr world for your training? Youre supposed to return around a decadeter


    Something happened. I came back to request help from our master. Lets catch upter. Abbess Clearlotus gestured to Tie Ma as she made her way into the Moon Monastery.


    However, the little nun stepped forward to stop them. Abbess Clearlotus, men arent allowed in our Moon Monastery. This is against the rules.


    This is Big Brother Tie. He was the one who escorted me back. You wont get it even if I exin it to you. Master will understand once I meet her, Abbess Clearlotus anxiously said.


    The little nun hesitated, but she eventually allowed the two of them into the Moon Monastery.


    The Moon Monastery didnt have many disciples. They did encounter a few nuns along the way, and their eyes would widen in surprise when they saw the two of them.


    Abbess Clearlotus, it doesnt look like your Moon Monastery has many disciples, Tie Ma said.


    There are few cultivator sects in the world that have many disciples. There are only this many resources in the world, and it takes a huge amount of resources to nurture one cultivator.


    A person suddenly appeared in front of the two of them. It was a tall and slender woman who looked to be in her thirties, and she was gorgeous. She assessed Tie Ma while answering his question.


    You are? Tie Ma was taken aback. He didnt notice her appearance at all!


    Abbess Clearlotus was overjoyed. Master!


    Tie Ma widened his eyes in realization.


    I am Moonchaser from the Moon Monastery, the woman calmly replied.


    Abbess Moonchaser, its an honor to meet you in person Tie Ma sped his fist and bowed.


    A mere mortal wouldnt have heard of my title, Abbess Moonchaser cidly replied. She turned to Clearlotus and said, Clearlotus, it hasnt been a year since you went down the mountain. Why are you in such a rush to return? And whats the background of this mortal?


    Abbess Clearlotus quickly exined the situation with a lowered voice.


    When Abbess Moonchaser heard the words Blood Spirit Cult, her eyes visibly turned grim.


    Our Moon Monastery wont interfere in the affairs of the Blood Spirit Cult, Abbess Moonchaser turned to Tie Ma and said. You may descend the mountain now.


    Master?! Abbess Clearlotus was startled. She hadnt expected Abbess Moonchaser to immediately reject them.


    The Blood Spirit Cult is an old tree with roots branching over the world. Meddling in their business will only bring a cmity upon our Moon Monastery. We wont cross them as long as they dont cross us. They wont recklessly make a move on a cultivator sect either, Abbess Moonchaser said.


    Elder, our young master wont ask you to make a move for free. Hes willing to strike a deal with you for your help, Tie Ma calmly replied.


    Strike a deal? Your young master, a Ki Refinement cultivator, wants to strike a deal with me? Abbess Moonchaser asked with a smile.


    The Purple Lightning Talismans heritage, Tie Ma said. Elder, I wonder if you have heard of the Purple Lightning Talisman?


    Purple Lightning Talisman?


    There was a subtle change in Abbess Moonchasers expression. The Purple Lightning Talisman was famous in the world of cultivation, and its heritage was rare. There was not a cultivator sect in Infernoze Country that had inherited the Purple Lightning Talismans heritage.


    Its almost impossible for a cultivator to appear in a grade-9 state. Your young master must have inherited a cultivators heritage. Was the Purple Lightning Talisman part of the heritage too? Abbess Moonchaser asked.


    I dont know the details, but my young master is sincere about making this deal, Elder, please consider it. Tie Ma sped his fist.


    Sincere? Abbess Moonchaserughed. I reckon your young master only obtained a couple of Purple Lightning Talismans by chance rather than its heritage.


    Abbess Clearlotus hurriedly interjected, Master, I personally saw the young master drawing Purple Lightning Talismans. He was the one who gave me these. He said that if youre willing to make a move, hed pass down the Purple Lightning Talismans heritage to me.


    She took out a stack of Purple Lightning Talismans as she spoke. She had used a couple of them along the way, but there were still dozens left.


    Abbess Moonchaser frowned at the sight of those Purple Lightning Talismans. She took them from Abbess Clearlotus hands and examined them.


    These are authentic.


    This prompted Abbess Moonchaser to nce at Tie Ma before looking at the Purple Lightning Talisman once more. Each of these Purple Lightning Talismans was worth at least ten low-grade ki stones in Infernoze, which meant they wereparable to some two daosoul artifacts.


    On top of that, it was a market with severely limited supply.


    The prowess of Purple Lightning Talismans was incredible. A low-grade Purple Lightning Talisman would grant a third stage Ki Refinement cultivator a chance to turn the tables on a sixth stage Ki Refinement cultivator.


    And the stack of Purple Lightning Talismans Abbess Clearlotus had just taken out were all mid-grade Purple Lightning Talismans. That would make them even more valuable. Ordinary cultivators wouldnt have been able to acquire so many Purple Lightning Talismans.


    At this point, Abbess Moonchaser had already believed that Fang Chen had the Purple Lightning Talismans heritage.


    The value of this heritage couldnt just be measured by hundreds or even thousands of low-grade ki stones. At least in Infernoze, it was priceless!


    Come with me, Abbess Moonchaser stowed away the Purple Lightning Talismans before turning around and walking away.


    Abbess Clearlotus was overjoyed. Tie Ma breathed a sigh of relief.


    In the Conference Pce, Abbess Moonchaser took the principal seat, whereas Tie Ma and Abbess Clearlotus stood on her left. It didnt take long for eight other abbesses to enter as well. Some of these abbesses were old, but there were also younger ones too.


    All of them were at least at ninth stage Ki Refinement, and there was even one who had reached twelfth stage Ki Refinement, just a step away from reaching Foundation Establishment.


    Junior Sect Master, why did you call us here? the oldest abbess asked.


    The others looked at Tie Ma and frowned. They could tell at a nce that Tie Ma was a mere mortal, not to mention a man. How could such a person be allowed in the Moon Monastery?


    Abbess Moonchaser looked at the crowd and smiled. Fellow sisters, Id like to discuss an important matter with the rest of you today.


    The abbesses were astonished. <em>A matter that requires all of the second-generation disciples to gather together to discuss must have something to do with the sects fate. </em>


    A few faces turned grim. <em>Did the Moon Monastery provoke a powerful enemy?</em>


    Abbess Moonchaser slowly exined the situation to the other abbesses. The talk about the Blood Spirit Cult and the Purple Lightning Talismans heritage left the abbesses dazed. It was only when they saw the stack of Purple Lightning Talismans that they finally believed the story.


    Senior Starfire, you are 130 years old, right? You might reach your limit in a decade if you dont advance to Foundation Establishment, but the Foundation Establishment Pill is expensive. We can hardly afford one even if we put all our resources into it, Abbess Moonchaser sighed.


    If we acquire the Purple Lightning Talismans heritage, we could earn a sum of ki stones within a short period of time. Theres a chance we can buy a Foundation Establishment Pill before your lifespan runs out.


    A sharp glint shed across the eyes of the old Abbess Starfire. She slowly turned to Tie Ma and asked with a hoarse voice, Does your young master really possess the Purple Lightning Talisman heritage?


    Yes, he does, Tie Ma answered.


    Abbess Clearlotus quickly added, I can vouch for that.


    But this matter has grave consequences. If the Blood Spirit Cult learns of our involvement One of the abbesses carefully nced at Abbess Starfire.


    If we are agreeable with it, we will only help them once. Well do it discreetly so that we wont be revealed even if we fail. The Blood Spirit Cult wont be able to find us, Abbess Moonchaser said.


    If thats the case it should be fine.


    The abbesses discussed a bit longer before nodding.


    The Purple Lightning Talismans heritage was too tempting. This was a rare opportunity to bring their Moon Monastery to a greater height. They didnt want to miss this chance.


    Junior Sect Master, well be troubling you to make this trip. Abbess Starfire stood up and slowly bowed.


    <em>Its done! </em>Tie Ma breathed a sigh of relief.

 Chapter 135: Kill the Chicken to Warn the Monkeys. You Are the Chicken

    Chapter 135: Kill the Chicken to Warn the Monkeys. You Are the Chicken


    Let me go! Let me go right now! I am the first son of the Ji n, Ji Lengyue! Damn it, why are none of you saying a word?! You cant treat me like that even if Im a hostage!


    An unkempt Ji Lengyue furiously shook the prison cell bars made out of fine metal, but none of the Valiant Defenders paid him any heed as if they couldnt hear him at all.


    This was the cell that the Valiant Defenders used to imprison experts.


    Ji Lengyues ki sea had been shattered, so he was no longer an Earth Profound martial artist. He couldnt pose a threat anymore.


    Stop shouting, Ji Lengyue. Youre in Great Xia now! Do you think you can escape with your martial cultivation crippled? Stop dreaming!


    Time to get used to it. I have been locked here for many years now. Once you ept your fate, youll be happy to get food and water everyday. Its still not too bad.


    Mocking voices echoed from the other cells. The arrival of this important figure from Chillwater had added some joy to their boring lives.


    The Ji n will rescue me. Ill have all of you ughtered by then! Ji Lengyue roared.


    Is your Ji n a match for Imperial Duke Fang? We might not have been out for many years, but we have heard about your tragic defeat. Even Guhe, Longdu, and Yizhou have be our Great Xias vassal states, no?


    Ey, how fast times change! I have only been in this darned ce for ten years, and Great Xia has already been promoted to grade-8.


    Ji Lengyuesplexion turned pale, and his eyes slowly lost their spirit.


    The immortal worshiped by their Ji n was dead. If Chillwaters emperor learned about this, not only would he not help the Ji n deal with Great Xia, but he would exploit this opportunity to deal a fatal blow to the Ji n


    Given so, the Ji n wouldnt have the time and energy to rescue him.


    The thought of that left tears streaming from Ji Lengyues eyes.


    Just then, the prison doors opened.


    Huang Sihai, apanied by Niu Jue and the other chiliarchs, entered the prison with over fifty figures held under their custody. One of them was Greatsword Gate Master Xian Wuchang.


    Why did Fang Chen imprison me here instead of killing me? Xian Wuchang halted his footsteps and looked at Huang Sihai.


    Are you so eager to die? No rush. The young master has his own reason for bringing you here. Just patiently wait here, Huang Sihai coldly replied.


    The other leading figures of the southern regions attempted rebellion were here too, ranging from sect masters to influential elders.


    The g Mountain Sect Master looked at the eerie prison and eximed in despair, How can I, the g Mountain Sect Master, be imprisoned in a dingy ce where the sun doesnt shine?


    <em>The g Mountain Sect Master?</em>


    Some of the pugilistic worlds ex-powerhouses amongst the prisoners were startled to hear that, and they quickly crawled forward to take a closer look.


    It really is the g Mountain Sect Master! I crossed blows with him once, one of them eximed.


    These are all sect masters! g Mountain Sect, Thousand Ausperity Sect, Flowing Water Saber Sect Hold on, isnt that Greatsword Gate Master Xian Wuchang?!


    What?!


    The prisoners who recognized Xian Wuchang and the others gasped in shock. <em>These people are all famous powerhouses in the southern region! Why are they arrested here?</em>


    Xian Wuchang and the others also recognized some of the prisoners, and their faces warped in shock. They didnt expect to meet so many experts of the pugilistic world here.


    Huang Sihai, wheres Fang Chen? I want to meet him! Ji Lengyue banged his cell door and roared.


    Ji Lengyue, the young master went to the southern region though he should be returning to the capital very soon. Dont worry, Im certain hell pay you a visit, Huang Sihai replied with a chortle.


    <em>Fang Chen went to the southern region?</em>


    The prisoners widened their eyes as realization dawned upon them. <em>Fang Chen must have gone there to capture this bunch of people.</em>


    Right, let me introduce him to you. This is Ji Lengyue. Hes the first son of Chillwaters Ji n, an<em> incredible</em> figure indeed. He brought an entire toon of Nightmare Knights to our Great Xia, Huang Sihai told Xian Wuchang and the others. A pity for him that our young master dealt with his Nightmare Knights, and our young master Ji Lengyue was kept here as a hostage.


    Ah, you should also know that hes an Earth Profound martial artist, having reached first stage Aureate Aura! If only you arrived earlier, you could have witnessed the overwhelming prowess of an Earth Profound martial artist. Hahaha!


    Niu Jue and the others also burst intoughter, as they looked at Ji Lengyue with a gloating face that carried a hint of pride as well.


    Xian Wuchang and the others were startled. They looked at Ji Lengyue with a frown.


    Even our great young master Ji is making do with this ce. You should have no reason to fuss over the environment here. Just obediently stay here and dont cause any trouble, all right?


    Ji Lengyue, is Fang Chen really stronger than you? Xian Wuchang grimly asked.


    Many expressions flickered across Ji Lengyues eyes. In the end, he harrumphed in disdain and replied, Hes stronger.


    I didnt lose in vain, I didnt lose in vain. Hahaha! Xian Wuchang raised his head andughed heartily. If not for Fang Chen, I would have been the southern regions martial emperor. I was just a step off, just a step off! Hahaha!


    Tsk. These fellows really tried to rebel


    I told you. I knew that it was only a matter of time before the southern regions martial artists revolted.


    Considering the circumstances in the southern region, they might have really seeded if not for Fang Chen.


    Some of the prisoners whispered amongst themselves.


    Just a step off? Youre a long shot away from bing the martial emperor! a voice echoed.


    Astounded, the crowd turned toward the prison doors. A man stood there with his hands behind his back, and he looked at Xian Wuchang with a smile.


    Young master! Huang Sihai quickly turned around and bowed.


    Niu Jue and the others hurriedly did the same too.


    The Valiant Defenders was now under Huang Sihais control, and it wasmon knowledge that Huang Sihai served Fang Chen!


    The entire prison fell deathly silent. Even the usually unruly prisoners mped their mouths shut and quietly stared at Fang Chen.


    Old Huang, are you happy with your new post? Fang Chen asked.


    Ey, I prefer my days in the Court of Great Brilliance. My head hurts from having to deal with small fry here and there. Luckily Li Daoye helped me out quite a bit, Huang Sihai replied with a grin.


    Are the barracks clean? Fang Chen asked.


    Niu Jue and the others trembled. In just twenty short days, Huang Sihai mped down on seven high-ranking and over a hundred mid-ranking officials in the barracks. Such decisive action was rare, and most dared not to step out of line after witnessing that.


    Such a move would have usually resulted in a severe bacsh, but no one was foolish enough to oppose Fang Chen given the current political climate.


    Its almost clean. Huang Sihai nodded.


    Xian Wuchang stared unblinkingly at Fang Chen. Imperial Duke Fang, why did you drag us all the way here from the southern region?


    Im killing the chickens to warn the monkeys. Youll be my chickens, Fang Chen uttered before making his way to Ji Lengyue, leaving Xian Wuchang and the others pale in despair.


    Let me out, Fang Chen! Ji Lengyue roared.


    Do you know this ce?


    Fang Chen took out a map he had personally drawn. It depicted mountains and rivers, but there were no namebels at all. Most people wouldnt have known where it was.


    Ji Lengyue looked at the map and shook his head. I dont know.


    However, the subtle movement in his eyes betrayed him.


    I can find this ce myself even if you dont say a thing. Why dont you give me something useful in exchange for your freedom in Great Xias capital? Fang Chen chuckled.


    Ji Lengyues eyes shook. He seemed to be contemting the matter.

 Chapter 136: The Emperor’s Ancestor

    Chapter 136: The Emperor¡¯s Ancestor


    Fang Chen, can I hold you to your word? Ji Lengyue asked.


    What a joke! My young masters words are worth a thousand gold! Huang Sihai scoffed.


    Ji Lengyue nced at Huang Sihai before turning back to Fang Chen. He slowly nodded. I can tell you, but you have to get someone to escort me back to Chillwater.


    Escort your corpse back? Sure. Fang Chen nodded.


    You know what I mean! Ji Lengyue roared. I want you to release me in return for me telling you what you want to know!


    I can capture any of the Ji ns upper echelons and question them. Otherwise, I can also dispatch someone to investigate the area. Why should I strike such a meaningless deal with you? Fang Chen shook his head. You have no right to negotiate with me. If you tell me what I want to know now, Ill arrange a courtyard and a couple of servants for you in the barracks.


    Ji Lengyue eximed indignantly, You promised me my freedom earlier!


    You haggled with me, so its only fair for me to do the same. Do you still want to continue? Fang Chen asked.


    Damn it!


    Ji Lengyue was enraged, but there was nothing he could do. He had had enough of these dreary days where he couldnt differentiate day from night. In truth, he was willing to pay any price as long as he could get out of here


    That is where our Ji n procured our Nightmare Steed, Ji Lengyue replied.


    <em>Nightmare Steed?!</em>


    Xian Wuchang and the others pricked up their ears.


    This was a huge secret! It was known that the overwhelming strength of Chillwaters Nightmare Knights were mostly attributed to the Nightmare Steed.


    Theres something there that the immortal we worship wants, but its a dangerous ce. Shouldnt you take me out to talk lest such important information leak out? Ji Lengyue said.


    Arrange an individual courtyard for him, Fang Chen ordered.


    An hourter, Ji Lengyue was freed from the gloomy underground prison and was moved to an individual courtyard. Looking at the vast, blue sky, he took a deep breath before turning to Fang Chen. How did you obtain that map?


    Am I doing the questioning or you? Fang Chen smiled. Do you want to return to the underground prison?


    Ji Lengyues face darkened. He harrumphed in his heart before replying, Immortal Zuo calls that ce a dpidated blessednd. He ims that it was left behind by a powerful cultivator who might have reached immortality. There are many mystical flora and fauna in there, as well as Nightmare Steeds and the ki stones that Immortal Zuo adores.


    <em>Powerful cultivator? </em>Fang Chen fell into deep thought. <em>It looks like Enlightenment Heaven Supreme has cultivated there for some time. It could have been his ce of birth, or he simply resided there for some years while passing by the area. </em>


    However, that ce is fraught with danger, such that even Immortal Zuo hesitates to enter it. Our Ji n sends in arge group of experts each year to capture Nightmare Steeds and forage for mystical herbs and ki stones, Ji Lengyue replied. Around 300 to 500 of our people die there each year.


    <em>A ce where even a sixth stage Ki Refinement cultivator hesitates to enter?</em>


    Mm. Fang Chen calmly nodded. Youll be staying here from now on. The Valiant Defenders will be guarding the courtyards entrance, so dont bother trying to escape. You have lost your martial cultivation, so you cant escape from the capital even if you sneak out.


    Im useless to the Ji n now that you have crippled my cultivation. Theres no point keeping me in the capital, Ji Lengyue said.


    Honestly, I dont care whether youre useful to me or not. Im imprisoning you solely because I dont like how you dealt with my Fang n back then. Fang Chen patted Ji Lengyues shoulder before taking his leave.


    A group of Valiant Defenders gathered around the courtyard and kept a close eye on it.


    Ji Lengyue red at Fang Chen with vicious eyes.


    The Fang Manors maids and servants had been brought to the southern region, but there were new maids and servants to rece them. They looked unassuming, but they were all Great Xia Shadow Guards, elites of the elites.


    They were equipped with Purple Lightning Talismans, Flitting Talismans, Strength Talismans, and Protection Talismans that Fang Chen had previously bestowed to them. All of them could exert might surpassing Ki Control martial artists if they went all out.


    Young master.


    As soon as Fang Chen entered the Fang Manor, the servants and maids quickly greeted him. They were so well trained that outsiders couldnt tell that something was amiss even if they saw this sight.


    Mm. Do what you should, Fang Chen said with a nod.


    After the servants and maids backed off, Li Daoye rushed over and eximed, Youre finally back! I was scared out of my mind staying here by myself. Who knows when the Blood Spirit Cults Foundation Establishment cultivator wille knocking?


    Dont worry, your luck cant be that bad, Fang Chen consoled with a chuckle. Abbess Clearlotus should be returning from the Moon Monastery soon. If nothing goes wrong, her master should be on her way to Great Xia.


    Abbess Moonchaser isnt that easy to talk to, Li Daoye grimly replied.


    I offered them something they cant turn down, Fang Chen said.


    Something they cant turn down? Li Daoye was startled. You gave them that artifact of yours?


    The Purple Lightning Talismans heritage, Fang Chen replied.


    What?! Li Daoye gasped in shock. You should have said so earlier! I would have rushed back to ask my father to make a move. With the Purple Lightning Talismans heritage on the line, we wouldnt hesitate to fight even an immortal, let alone the Blood Spirit Cult!


    Youre unreliable. You might disappear halfway, Fang Chen pointed out.


    Li Daoye was frustrated, knowing that the Eight Trigrams Sect had missed a chance to strengthen its foundation.


    Is someone around? a voice echoed.


    The voice was tinged with spirit ki, so ordinary people couldnt hear it at all. Only cultivators could perceive it.


    The Blood Spirit Cultists are here! Li Daoye turned to Fang Chen with eyes filled with fear. Small beads of sweat dotted his forehead, and he anxiously fumbled in his robe in search of his Purple Lightning Talismans to console himself.


    Calm down. It might not be the Blood Spirit Cult, Fang Chen replied. Do you think the Blood Spirit Cult would be so polite? Follow me to take a look.


    At the entrance of the Fang Manor was a dignified middle-aged man. He was dressed in a green robe, and he looked graceful like a schr.


    The doors to the Fang Manor opened, and the servant weed him, Please enter.


    Mm. The middle-aged man nodded with a smile before following the servant into the manor.


    At the guest room, he looked at Fang Chen, followed by Li Daoye, before remarking, I might have left Great Xia for many years, but Id have never thought that cultivators would be born on this barrennd. I tried everything I could back then, venturing into many dangerous ces and walking for a long distance before I finally grasped a hope at immortality


    Li Daoyes eyebrows shot up. <em>The other party is from Great Xia? </em>He breathed a sigh of relief, knowing that the other party wasnt a Blood Spirit Cultist.


    May I know your name? Fang Chen sped his fist.


    It has been a really long time since Ist used that name. Let me think Ah right, I am Xia Yun, the ancestor of your Great Xias emperor, Xia Yun said with a smile.

 Chapter 137: Warning

    Chapter 137: Warning


    <em>The ancestor of the Great Xias emperor?</em>


    Fang Chen jogged his memory. <em>The Imperial Xia n does seem to have an ancestor named Xia Yun. </em>


    Xia Yun chuckled. He turned to Li Daoye and asked, I heard youre from Infernoze?


    Indeed. Li Daoye nodded.


    Have you heard of Infernozes South Heaven Sect? Xia Yun asked.


    I do. Wait a moment, could you be Li Daoye was taken aback. <em>Could he be a cultivator from the South Heaven Sect?</em>


    Indeed. I traveled for a long distance after leaving Great Xia before arriving at Infernoze Country. I was fortunate to be able to join the South Heaven Sect, Xia Yun said with a smile. My old servant in Great Xia sent me a message, saying that a cultivator from Infernoze is here. So, I rushed back to take a look.


    Ah, so youre from the South Heaven Sect! Pardon my earlier discourtesy. Li Daoye sped his fist.


    May I know which sect you are from? Xia Yun asked.


    I am just an unaffiliated cultivator, Li Daoye replied with a lowered head.


    Xia Yun didnt say a word, but disdain flickered across his eyes. There was a clear hierarchy of disdain in the world of cultivation.


    Cultivators thought nothing of mortals, seeing them as no more than air, so they didnt bother showing them any contempt. Rather, it was unaffiliated cultivators with iplete heritage that drew their scorn.


    Its tough as an unaffiliated cultivator. I went through such a phase myself. I was lucky to have caught the South Heaven Sects eye and found a footing for myself, Xia Yun said with a sigh. You might be an unaffiliated cultivator, but you have already reached third stage Ki Refinement. Why are you getting involved in secr affairs then? Great Xia is a grade-9 state, and there are no resources for cultivators here. May I know what you covet from this ce?


    At this point, Xia Yun turned to look at Fang Chen.


    I am on close terms with young master Fang, Li Daoye replied sheepishly.


    With a mortal? Youre an interesting one. Xia Yunughed.


    Li Daoye was perplexed. <em>He cant tell that Fang Chen is a cultivator? No wonder hes able to use the Moonsunk Gold Truncheon. </em>This only made him even more curious about Fang Chens cultivation level.


    Over the conversation, Fang Chen figured out that Great Xias emperor must have felt threatened by the cultivator in the Fang n and his recent triumph over Chillwaters immortal and Ji Lengyue, so he had someone invite Xia Yun back.


    Prior to this encounter, he didnt know that there was such a figure in Great Xia.


    Youre Fang Chen, right? Xia Yun looked at Fang Chen.


    Indeed. Fang Chen nodded.


    Your Fang n has served Great Xia for many years. Your grandfather is Fang Zhentian, right? I have met him a couple of times. Hes indeed a military prodigy. Is he in the manor? Call him out. Id like to reminisce about the past with him, Xia Yun said.


    Our Fang n has already moved to the southern region, Fang Chen replied apologetically. My grandfather has grown old. Im afraid that the journey back might take a toll on him.


    You moved to the southern region? Xia Yun was surprised. Momentster, he slowly nodded. Thatd be for the best.


    You look young, elder. Could you have reached Foundation Establishment? I heard that Foundation Establishment cultivators can live to two hundred, Li Daoye asked out of curiosity.


    Foundation Establishment? Xia Yunughed. That realm is beyond reach. I wouldnt have returned if I had reached Foundation Establishment. Cultivators who have reached that level would have long severed their ties with the secr world. Its a pity my talent iscking. I have only reached eighth stage Ki Refinement after many years of training. Im still unable to sever my ties with the secr world.


    Eighth stage Ki Refinement! Li Daoye was astonished.


    That was enough to make one a formidable expert in the world of cultivation. At the very least, cultivators of such caliber were rare to find in Infernoze.


    Take Eight Trigrams Sect for example, even though his father was a Foundation Establishment cultivator, he was already advanced in age. He was worried that no one would take over his role after he passed away, which was why he had a son sote in life.


    Other than his father, only a handful of elders had reached eighth stage Ki Refinement.


    Sensing Li Daoyes shock, Xia Yun chuckled softly. Such cultivation is nothing in the South Heaven Sect. There are plenty of experts there who are stronger than me.


    Elder, you dont look to be an eighth stage Ki Refinement cultivator. Ordinary cultivators at that level only have a lifespan of around 135 years Li Daoye remarked.


    The glee in Xia Yuns eyes deepened. I was fortunate to have found two stalks of Longevity Grass. Each stalk can increase ones lifespan by eighty years, and I ate one.


    Increase ones lifespan by eighty years? Li Daoye gasped. Such spirit herb would be considered a top treasure in Infernoze. Even pinnacle Foundation Establishment cultivators would step in for it! What happened to the other stalk?


    I presented it to the South Heaven Sect, Xia Yun replied.


    Li Daoye and Fang Chen finally realized how Xia Yun was able to join the South Heaven Sect. It turned out that he had done them a huge favor.


    I heard from my great grandson that you helped Great Xia advance to a grade-8 state? Xia Yun turned to Fang Chen. That is a bad move. Great Xias foundation is not yet on par with other grade-8 states. I dont think this daoist will be staying in Great Xia for long either. Once hes gone, Great Xia will just be a grade-8 state in name. That would put it in a quandary.


    Foundation can be slowly built, Fang Chen replied.


    Xia Yun shook his head. Youre still too young. Listen to me and reject the grade-8 conferment.


    Elder, Great Xia wont have to offer tribute to Chillwater once it advances to a grade-8 state. It can also receive annual tribute from Guhe, Longdu, and Yizhou. Thatll help Great Xia build up its foundation, Fang Chen remarked with a frown.


    I shant interfere if you insist on it, but to ay my great grandsons worry, I want you to give me a straight answer. Does your Fang n eyeing Great Xias imperial throne? Xia Yun asked.


    Fang Chen shook his head with a smile. Elder, if youre worried about the Xia n losing its power, why didnt you step forward and help Great Xia when it was struggling over thest few years?


    Since I have embarked on the path of immortality, its only right for me to sever my ties with the secr world Cultivators should avoid contact with mortals lest it bring about bad karma, Xia Yun replied with a matter-of-factly attitude. I wont make a move unless Great Xia isnt in mortal danger and even so, Id only protect the Xia n. The rest will be up to fate.


    <em>Are cultivators that selfish? </em>Fang Chen was startled, but the thought of Abbess Clearlotus and Li Daoye put his mind at ease. <em>There are selfish cultivators out there, but not all of them will be like that. </em>


    In other words, Xia Yun was saying that Great Xia couldnt offer enough benefit to warrant him to make a move. Even if the enemy was just the likes of Greenpine, he would still hold back lest they have a cultivator or two.


    It was normal for empires to crumble and dynasties to change, and there was no reason for cultivators to get involved in such affairs, but that was only if they were outside of it from the very start.


    To refuse to make a move when ones homnd was in troublethat was no longer about severing ones secr heart or not. At least, Fang Chen would beg to differ.


    Thinking back, Xia Yun had first asked about Li Daoyes background before daring to reveal his motive. If Li Daoye had any background despite only being at third stage Ki Refinement, it was unlikely that Xia Yun would have warned Fang Chen as he did.

 Chapter 138: The Emergence of the Spirit Marrow

    Chapter 138: The Emergence of the Spirit Marrow


    You seem to disagree. Xia Yun looked at Fang Chen andughed. I dont me you. You arent a cultivator. We appear lofty before mortal eyes, but we are treading on thin ice. We have to contemte again and again before making a move lest it bring disaster upon us.


    The recent incident revealed that Chillwaters Ji n was worshiping an immortal, but who knew before that Chillwater was backed by a cultivator? While you took down the cultivator, his friends and family might not be willing to let things slip. Chillwater might have more than one cultivator too.


    If we go a step further, Guhe, Longdu, Yizhou, and Greenpine might have cultivators too. Perhaps, they might have ancestors who sought the path of immortality like I did and returned after reaching a high level of aplishment.


    What Im saying is that it never hurts to be prudent. Its one thing if the enemy is weaker, but a stronger foe can easily end me. The path of immortality is long and arduous. To lose everything over something so petty is nothing short of foolishness


    Fang Chen chuckled. Elder, why did you return then?


    I came to check if Chillwater has any other cultivators. If hes weaker than me, Ill step in and handle it on your behalf. Otherwise, Ill mediate between the two of you, Xia Yun said. Also, I didnt make a trip here just to visit Great Xia. I just happened to pass by while traveling elsewhere.


    Senior Xia, have you resolved the matter yet? Do you need us to make a move? a voice was ryed to the crowds ears.


    It was another cultivator!


    Li Daoyes eyebrows shot up. Fang Chen feigned ignorance since Xia Yun thought that he was an ordinary martial artist.


    Two figures suddenly appeared behind Xia Yunit was a man and a woman. Both of them looked young, and the pride in their eyes couldnt be concealed.


    Junior Brother Liu, Junior Sister Tantai, I have kept you waiting. Allow me to introduce you to this daoist over here. He is


    Xia Yun was extremely courteous to his two juniors, so much so that his attitude felt fawning, but their cultivation was only at fifth stage Ki Refinement.


    I am Li Daoye, Li Daoye said.


    Li Daoye? The two of them frowned with disdain in their eyes.


    Senior Xia, lets pay a visit to your great grandson and see if that item you cant see through is of value, the man urged.


    Xia Yun nodded before leaving with the two of them. He didnt bother bidding Fang Chen or Li Daoye farewell.


    Shortly after they left, Li Daoye harrumphed. Why is he acting so smug? Hes just an ordinary disciple of the South Heaven Sect, whereas I am the young master of the Eight Trigrams Sect!


    Yourecking as the young master, being only at third stage Ki Refinement. The other two dont look that much older than you, but they have already reached fifth stage Ki Refinement, Fang Chen said.


    Li Daoye was infuriated. Our Eight Trigrams Sect practices the art of omen reading, so its inevitable that werecking in terms of cultivation stage. However, we can do what they cant!


    If so, why dont you look at the imperial pce and see if theres anything amiss? Fang Chen suddenly asked.


    The imperial pce? Theres nothing amiss there. Li Daoye shook his head. I have already taken multiple looks there.


    Fang Chen fell into deep thought. He had previously felt a sliver of threat from the imperial pce when he astral projected, which was why he avoided approaching the imperial pce in his soul form.


    <em>And that man earlier said that he wanted to take a look at something in the imperial pce. Could there be a link between the two?</em>


    Are you sure? Fang Chen asked.


    Of course! Li Daoye said. Did you notice something amiss? Is there a priceless treasure hiding in your Great Xia?


    You might becking practice. Fang Chen chuckled.


    The arrival of Xia Yun and his juniors caught Fang Chen off guard, but this wasnt bad news. Should the Blood Spirit Cultist appear now, he would drag them into the fray whether they liked it or not.


    In the Shadow Courtyard, Jade Fairy sat on the door ledge with her hands propping up her chin. When Fang Chen appeared, she stood up in delight. Young master, I was still wondering when youll drop by.


    Are there any movements from the pce while I was away? Fang Chen asked.


    There isnt anything much, though Tao Yu, Ye Qinghe, and the others are taking on higher profiles than usual. They often organize gatherings for the young scions and talents, and the crown prince would asionally show his face too, Jade Fairy replied.


    Fang Chen nodded. Is the corpse inside?


    Yes. I have been keeping watch over it, Jade Fairy replied.


    You havent been to the Jade Fairy Boat for a while. Those fellows must have thought that something has happened to you, Fang Chen remarked.


    I told them I have a cold. What can they do about it? Jade Fairy replied coyly.


    The two of them entered the room. Immortal Zuo, the immortal worshiped by the Ji n, was lying quietly on a bed.


    Its truly mystical. His corpse showed no signs of dposition, Jade Fairy said.


    Thats because of the spirit ki inside him. His flesh and blood wont easily dpose as long as theres spirit ki lingering inside.


    Fang Chen searched Immortal Zuos body, only to find a four daosoul imprint artifact and not a single ki stone at all. <em>He must have been really poor, for a sixth stage Ki Refinement cultivator to still be using a four daosoul artifact.</em>


    He first took the artifact before gently tapping with his finger.


    A fireball fell on Immortal Zuos corpse and instantaneously burned him into cinders. Perplexingly, the me didnt burn anything else in the room.


    Young master, when can I learn such means too? Jade Fairys eyes lit up.


    Ill impart to you a Ki Refinement form to see if you are suited for this path. Otherwise, itd be best not to force it, Fang Chen said.


    He had personally picked out the members of the Great Xia Shadow Guards, so there was no question about their talent for martial cultivation. However, that didnt necessarily mean that their talent spilled over to immortal cultivation.


    All of a sudden, Fang Chen widened his eyes and turned in the direction of the imperial pce. Then, he turned to Jade Fairy and said, Wait a moment.


    He drew out his soul and instantaneously arrived above the imperial pce. The threatening aura he felt was bing stronger, such that he could even sense it before he astral projected.


    <em>Something is happening in the imperial pce!</em>


    In the imperial pces rear garden, the Great Xias emperor had already dismissed everyone in the vicinity, leaving behind him, Xia Yun, and the other two cultivators.


    Floating in front of the four of them was a faintly glowing jade object.


    Senior Xia Yun why is there a Spirit Marrow in your Great Xia?! the two junior cultivators eximed in astonishment, but there was also a hint of greed in their eyes.


    Spirit Marrow? the Great Xias emperor murmured.


    Xia Yun gasped. He turned to his two juniors and asked, Junior Brother Liu, Junior Sister Tantai, youre saying that this jade object is the legendary Spirit Marrow? If Im not mistaken, even swallowing a bit of the Spirit Marrow can greatly enhance ones talent, aiding ones pursuit of immortality!


    <em>Spirit Marrow? </em>Fang Chen stared at that jade object from the sky. The threatening aura he felt came from the jade object; it felt like the object itself possessed sentience.


    Quick, suppress it! Dont let it get away. If the Spirit Marrow emerges, itll morph into an immortal rain and choose its own owner. We can only suppress it now before it fully awakens, Junior Brother Liu urged.

 Chapter 139: Occurrence of Phenomena

    Chapter 139: urrence of Phenomena


    Upon the reminder, Xia Yun quickly manifested his spirit ki into the form of a palm to grab the Spirit Marrow. Junior Brother Liu and Junior Sister Tantai quickly did the same too.


    However, the Spirit Marrow unleashed an even brighter light, as if attempting to struggle free of their grasp.


    Is this the means of a cultivator?


    The Great Xias emperor watched on with envious eyes before turning his attention toward the Spirit Marrow. From their attitudes, he could tell that the Spirit Marrow was extremely valuable.


    This jade object has been passed down through our Xia n for many years. Id have never known that it is something this important.


    The Great Xias emperor suddenly remembered a story he had heard from his grandfather.


    It was said that their founding emperor was an ordinary cowherd in his younger years. One day, he saw two immortals ying chess in the forest, so he went over to take a look out of curiosity.


    Time flew by hastily, and centuries passed before he knew it.


    It was only when the immortals ended their game that the cowherd finally thought about returning home. Just as he was about to walk off, he noticed a jade object on the chess board. Thinking that it was something the immortals had left behind for him, he took it away with him.


    To his dismay, his home was nowhere to be found when he returned. Everything had changed over the centuries. Even their country had changed multiple dynasties!


    The cowherd cried for several days before taking his old cow, which had survived the centuries, headed off to venture the world. He went through a lot in his journey, and in the end, he founded Great Xia.


    This story was passed down through the Xia n, but everyone thought that it was nothing more than a tale to embellish their history. Only a fool would believe it.


    Yet, the jade object proved to be something exceptional. This made the Great Xias emperor wonder if there was credence to the story.


    Damn it! I cant suppress it anymore! Junior Brother Liu eximed indignantly.


    The Spirit Marrow smothered by spirit ki hands furiously thrashed around. It took only a few moments for it to break free of their grasps. Before their eyes, it divided into thousands of light streams and whizzed into the sky.


    Without any warning, it started to rain.


    Junior Brother Liu looked deted, and his eyes were filled with indignation.


    <em>How could this opportunity slip past my fingers just like that? With the Spirit Marrow turning into rain, its benefits will just go to the local popce here. Some of them will be extraordinarily talented cultivators!</em>


    Xia Yun heaved a sigh. Seeing the awful looks on Junior Brother Lius and Junior Sister Tantais faces, he asked, Juniors, I have heard about the Spirit Marrow but not the specifics. Can you fill me in on the details?


    Junior Brother Liu looked at Xia Yun for a few seconds before replying, Spirit Marrows are manifested from the convergence of a regions spirit ki. These ces either used to be rich in spirit ki, or that a powerful cultivator had passed away in the area. In any case, Spirit Marrows cant possibly form in barren ces. There might have been powerful cultivator ns here a thousand years ago or so.


    Xia Yun and the Great Xias emperor were surprised.


    Its a pity our cultivation is too low to suppress the Spirit Marrow. With the emergence of the Spirit Marrow, spirit ki will be returned to its source. After this rain, youll find people possessing exceptional talent for cultivation appearing here, Junior Brother Liu said.


    I heard from my grandfather that a Spirit Marrow around the size of an adults fist appeared in Infernoze 120 years ago. Its appearance caught the attention of many sects, and they quickly sent their people in to im possession of it. However, none of them were able to suppress it, and it eventually morphed into a spirit rain.


    Many talented cultivators appeared afterward like bamboo shoots in the wake of a rain. That fellow from the Beast Spirit Valley is one. Our South Heaven Sects Big Senior is another, Junior Sister Tantai said.


    Xia Yun was surprised. <em>Those two prodigies only reached their current level of aplishment due to that spirit rain? Does it mean that simr prodigies will appear in Great Xia from this day onward?</em>


    Its good that we made it in time. We wont be able to monopolize the Spirit Marrows essence, but as cultivators, we would still benefit greatly from this rain, Junior Brother Liu said.


    The rain became heavier.


    The crowd could see a faint, white light enveloping Great Xias capital, and phenomena started to appear. Vaguely, a dragons cry or a tigers roar seemed to echo in the white sky.


    This astonished Great Xias civilians. They quickly walked out of their houses to check the phenomena.


    Some saw dragons soaring in the sky.


    Some saw tigers leaping across the mountains.


    Some saw a flock of immortal cranes.


    Some saw fairies frolicking around in the clouds.


    These mystical scenes left the crowd baffled. It felt almost as if they had been transported into an immortal realm.


    Do you see that? Thats a dragon?


    What dragon? I saw a big tiger!


    Youre all wrong. Thats a flock of immortal cranes!


    Whats wrong with your eyes? I dont see anything at all.


    Dad, I see fairies smiling at me!


    From merchants and soldiers to officials and nobles, everyone raised their heads to look at the sky. The princes, princesses, eunuchs, maids, guards, and concubines residing in the imperial pce did the same.


    Some saw the phenomena, but there were also those who couldnt see a thing at all.


    Ahh Xia Yu stared at the sky with an agape mouth. He seemed to see the majestic sight of nine dragons ying with a pearl, and his face slowly warped in incredulity.


    The spirit rain pattered through Fang Chens soul in the sky, and he didnt feel a thing at all, but he could also see all kinds of phenomena in the sky.


    Could that be the reason I saw the fairy in the zing sun back at the Three Realms Mountain? Was it just an illusion? Fang Chen stared at the sky in a daze when mncholy gripped him.


    The Great Xias emperor stared at the sky in a daze. Secondster, he turned to Xia Yun and asked, Ancestor, why cant I see anything at all?


    Xia Yun fell silent. Junior Brother Liu and Junior Sister Tantai looked at the Great Xias emperor with mocking eyes.


    Youre not fated to be an immortal, Xia Yun eventually said with a sigh.


    Oh The Great Xias emperor impassively nodded.


    The billowing of spirit ki, the manifestations of phenomena. Youre in luck, Senior Xia. It wont be long before major sects in Infernoze send their elders down to take your people in as their disciples. Outstanding cultivators will rise from your Great Xia, Junior Brother Liu said.


    Xia Yuns eyes gleamed with delight. This was good news. The main reason he had struggled so much in his pursuit of immortality was due to hisck of stalwart allies to fall back on.


    If Great Xia had more cultivators, they would be able to huddle together and look after one another. If one of them reached the same height as Infernozes top talents, he could even benefit from their halo.


    The eyes of the Great Xias emperor flickered. He suddenly thought of something and asked, Ancestor, would my offspring have a chance to be cultivators?


    Of course. Xia Yu nodded. The South Heaven Sects elders will gauge their aptitude when they arrive, and theyll be able to join the South Heaven Sect if they are sufficiently talented. Otherwise, they can join other minor sects too.


    The Great Xias emperor was delighted to hear that. <em>Doesnt that mean that our Xia n can be a cultivator n? </em>This is a fortuitous encounter for our Xia n! The Fang n wont be able to benefit from this since they moved to the southern region!


    The Great Xias emperor smiled. He believed that soon enough, he wouldnt have to fear that grandfather-grandson duo from the Fang n anymore!

 Chapter 140: The Sixth Immortal Vein

    Chapter 140: The Sixth Immortal Vein


    It rained for an entire day.


    The diffusion of the Spirit Marrow would grant some aptitude for cultivation, but it would also bring about some inexplicable changes as well.


    For instance, there were those who had been bedridden for years, only to be cured when exposed to the rain. There was also an old tree that had withered to death decades ago, but it began sprouting after the rain.


    While Fang Chen was astral projecting, he heard Jade Fairy murmuring while looking at the sky, How interesting. Why would the sky suddenly darken in the middle of the day?


    Upon hearing that, Fang Chen quickly returned to his body and pulled Jade Fairy out of the room to soak the rainwater. This perplexed Jade Fairy.


    Is the sky still dark? Fang Chen asked.


    It is. Jade Fairy nodded.


    Do you see anything else other than that? Fang Chen asked.


    Hmm The stars look exceptionally bright today, Jade Fairy remarked.


    <em>Stars? </em>Fang Chen fell into deep thought.


    This development threw his ns into disarray. That Liu cultivator said that renowned sects would send their elders into Great Xia to take in disciples. He didnt know whether it was a good thing or not if the Blood Spirit Cults Foundation Establishment cultivator arrived now.


    Lets return to the Fang Manor, Fang Chen said.


    In the Fang Manor, Li Daoye stood under the rain in a daze. He saw Fang Chen and Jade Fairy walking over, both basked under the rain as well, and he remarked with a frown, How intriguing. I sense something amiss about this rain, but I cant put my finger on it.


    Its a spirit rain invoked by the diffusion of a Spirit Marrow, Fang Chen replied.


    <em>Spirit Marrow? Whats that? </em>Li Daoye was confused. Clearly, he was not privy to knowledge about the Spirit Marrow.


    This is good news for you. Arge group of cultivators may soon arrive at Great Xia. You need to be prepared. There could be cultivators from your Eight Trigrams Sect too, Fang Chen said.


    Li Daoye anxiously enquired more details about the matter, so Fang Chen told him about the background of the Spirit Marrow. He was overjoyed to hear about that.


    Does that mean that my aptitude will rise because of this rain too? Hahaha! Young master Fang, it was the right decision for me to stay in Great Xias capital! Your Great Xia is indeed impressive to nurture a treasure of such caliber! I bet there used to be cultivators here in the distant past!


    Li Daoye looked at the rain once more and remarked, This phenomenon will catch the attention of stronger experts as well. Sects stronger than the South Heaven Sect might be drawn here. The Blood Spirit Cult wouldnt dare to make a reckless move with so much attention on here.


    I dont know if thats a good thing. If the Blood Spirit Cult doesnt make a move, we wont be able to tell friend from foe. Fang Chen sighed.


    Itd be good if this scares him away, Li Daoye said gleefully. Think about it. Many people from your Great Xia will join cultivator sects after this event, and some of these sects might be backed by Golden Core experts. The Blood Spirit Cult will have to carefully think it over before making a move. That would be better than you inviting someone over to kill him.


    Thats true. Well wait and see. Fang Chen nodded.


    He had intended to impart the Purple Aura Form to Jade Fairy, but he changed his mind. Should she catch the eye of a cultivation sect, her practicing the Purple Aura Form might hinder her from grasping other cultivation methods. It could also cause a huge deal of trouble if the South Heaven Sect found out about it.


    In the following days toe, there was a huge fuss surrounding the mystical rain. Xia Yun and his two juniors showed no inclination to leave Great Xia too. They settled down here for the time being while waiting for the cultivators from the other sects to arrive.


    Fang Chen spent his time drawing talismans. When he used up his spirit materials, he switched to drawing low-grade Purple Lightning Talismans instead.


    Time passed just like that.


    Ten dayster, after Fang Chenpleted a low-grade Purple Lightning Talisman, the surrounding spirit ki suddenly surged into his body, manifesting into his sixth immortal vein.


    Such a speed of cultivation couldnt just be shrugged off as fast.


    Xia Yun, despite having pursued immortality for over a hundred years now, had only reached eighth rank Ki Refinement, whereas Fang Chen was less than two months into his cultivation and was already at sixth rank Ki Refinement.


    The reason behind his fast growth, however, was not due to his talent but his strong soul.


    It could be possible that once his soul was no longer outstandingpared to his peers, his rate of cultivation would be much slower than them.


    At the city gates, an old man leisurely strolled into the capital.


    He was mostly bald except for a few strands of white hair that dangled from his sideburns down to his shoulders. His face was emaciated, and most of his teeth had already dropped out.


    All of these told others that he was reaching the end of his lifespan; he had a foot in the grave. The civilians carefully walked around him, worried that they would bump into him.


    Grandpa, your leg is not doing well. Let me support you. A seven-year-old child walked over and supported the old man.


    Good boy. The old man smiled toothily at the child, his eyes brimming with benevolence.


    Grandpa, where are you going? the child asked.


    I dont know. Im taking a look around, the old man replied with a smile.


    He was about to say more when he suddenly turned around and looked back at the city gates. His swift movement was at odds with his sickly demeanor, but the child didnt notice it.


    The nearby civilians were shocked to see all kinds of peculiar individuals entering the city, and some had inexplicably ethereal dispositions that suggested that they were of lofty standing.


    I never thought such a ce could breed a Spirit Marrow. What a pity.


    Nothing to pity. The likes of you and I cant hope to monopolize a Spirit Marrow. Its good that it nourished this ce too. We might be able to find a couple of outstanding disciples for our sect.


    Im saying this first. Daoist Crow, Immortal Aunt Firecloud, you better not steal my disciples.


    What do you mean by steal? Well go by the usual rules. Our South Heaven Sect and Beast Spirit Valley shall host the event.


    The one who spoke was a middle-aged man dressed in a schrly robe. The surrounding spirit ki flowed with his movement, a phenomenon indicating that he was a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    It was just that ordinary people or those whose souls were weaker than his couldnt see it.


    Elder Jinnan, you have to be fair then. You monopolized all of the talented ones back then in Infernoze. There was hardly any left for us, someone remarked with a frown.


    Before Elder Jinnan could reply, another cold-faced woman who resembled an ordinary farmdy spoke up, Our Beast Spirit Valley and the South Heaven Sect have always been fair. The talents shall be shared equally between the northern region and the southern region.


    That would be great. The crowd nodded.


    Elder Jinnan suddenly chuckled. I believe one of our disciples was from here.


    The crowd was surprised to hear that.


    Just then, Xia Yun and his two juniors rushed over from a distance.


    Elder Jinnan. The three of them respectfully greeted him.


    Elder Jinnan nodded with a smile. Were you around when the Spirit Marrow emerged?


    Yes, we were.


    Thats good. Elder Jinnan nodded with a smile.


    The surrounding cultivators looked at Jinnan in envy. Who could have thought three disciples from the South Heaven Sect would be here when the Spirit Marrow emerged?


    They would have benefited from the spirit rain.

 Chapter 141: Suggestion

    Chapter 141: Suggestion


    After Xia Yun greeted the elders, he suggested for them to take a rest at the imperial pce. Only then did the crowd know that he was part of the imperial family, so they happily epted his offer.


    The disciples selection was not something that could bepleted at a whim. They would be spending a long time sieving through the crowd and looking for the individual who benefited the most from the spirit rain. Given so, it was best for them to find a ce to take a breather first.


    After the crowd left, the bald, old man murmured under his breath, I saw the phenomenon a few days back, but to think it really is a Spirit Marrow. Who could have thought a mere grade-9 state could nurture a Spirit Marrow? Thats a spirit treasure on the ranking!


    He turned to the child and smiled. Child, Im a bit weary. May I take a rest at your house?


    Of course! The child innocently nodded.


    Minutester, eight corpsesy in an ordinary civilian courtyard. Their warped faces showed just how terrified they were prior to their deaths.


    The child sat on the ground, watching the corpses with a dazed expression. The old man wiped his lips, his body emanating a brighter luster than before.


    Silly child. The old man walked up to the child to end his life, but he changed his mind and instead released a pulse of spirit ki to destroy his voice box. I shant kill you. Obediently serve as my grandson for the next few days.


    The old man patted the childs head with benevolent eyes.


    It was the right decision toe here. It really is a Spirit Marrow!


    Abbess Moonchaser looked at the crowd on the streets with a smile. A ce where the Spirit Marrow would be rich in spirit ki for a long time.


    Shortly after they departed from Infernoze, Abbess Moonchaser had already sensed a Spirit Marrow emerging in their direction of travel. It was simr to what she had sensed when a Spirit Marrow emerged in Infernoze back then.


    She thought it was a huge coincidence that the Spirit Marrow actually emerged at her destination, Great Xia.


    Master, you mentioned the Spirit Marrow a couple times now. What is that? Abbes Clearlotus asked out of curiosity.


    Its hard to exin it to you. Think of it as a miraculous rain that blesses some individuals with outstanding cultivation talent. Cultivators from other sects should be arriving soon to take some disciples under their wing, Abbess Moonchaser replied with a faint smile.


    Tie Ma and Abbess Clearlotus were surprised. They had recently learned that very few mortals in the world possessed cultivation talent. There could be not a single potential cultivator to be found in a group of ten thousand people.


    But just having cultivation potential was not enough to join a cultivator sect. Cultivator sects were looking for individuals who had reached at least a decent level of talent.


    Spirit resources were scarce, after all. No sect would want to squander their spirit resources just to nurture a couple of third and fourth stage Ki Refinement cultivators. Those were of little use. What they wanted were disciples who could potentially reach Foundation Establishment.


    And the outstanding cultivation talent that Abbess Moonchaser mentioned clearly referred to that!


    The emergence of the Spirit Marrow changes the nature of this matter. Lets first meet your young master and see what his take is. Abbess Moonchaser nced at Tie Ma.


    Follow me. Tie Me nodded respectfully.


    Soon, the three of them arrived before the Fang Manor. Abbess Clearlotus quickly rushed forward to knock on the door, but the servant who opened the door was an unfamiliar face, prompting her to nce at Tie Ma.


    Upon the sight of Tie Ma, the servant understood what was going on and stepped aside. Please enter.


    Elder Moonchaser, this way please, Tie Ma respectfully led the way.


    Abbess Moonchaser nodded before following Tie Ma into the Fang Manor. Abbess Clearlotus tagged along as well.


    Fang Chen and Li Daoye rushed over upon hearing the news.


    Fang Chen smiled at Tie Ma and Abbess Clearlotus before he turned to Abbess Moonchaser and sped his fist, saying, Junior Fang Chen pays respect to elder.


    Li Daoye stood nervously by the side with his head lowered and his hands fidgeting. He looked like a guilty child, not daring to look Abbess Moonchaser in the eye.


    You have an artifact to conceal your cultivation? It looks like you have inherited a formidable heritage. That exins your ability to draw Purple Lightning Talismans.


    Abbess Moonchaser assessed Fang Chen, but she was unable to see through his cultivation. She thought that he had an artifact to conceal his cultivation. Then, she turned to Li Daoye and remarked with an enigmatic smile, Your father has been looking for you. He wants to drag you back toplete the marriage.


    Li Daoye sheepishly replied, They should have learned by now that I have made an enemy out of the Blood Spirit Cult. Theyll likely pretend not to know me.


    Abbess Moonchaser nodded. You were cowardly like a mouse. I didnt think you would have it in you. I underestimated you.


    Abbess Moonchaser, youre ttering me. Hahaha. Li Daoye was gleeful to receive the praise. He looked as if he had forgotten how Fang Chen had coerced him to remain in Great Xia.


    Abbess Moonchaser chuckled. She turned her attention back to Fang Chen and asked, Do you know why Im here?


    Fang Chen pondered, and he decided to get straight to the point, Is it rted to the Purple Lightning Talisman?


    Yes, but not entirely so. Abbess Moonchaser nced at Abbess Clearlotus before continuing, This disciple of mine is soft-hearted, and she can see deceased souls lingering in the world. Theres no one who fits our sects cultivation method more than her. She chose to stay because she couldnt bear to watch your people being harmed by the Blood Spirit Cult. Shell be able to rue karma if I resolve this matter for you, and that will make her future path easier.


    If not for her, do you think a mere Purple Lightning Talisman heritage can prompt a Foundation Establishment cultivator into action? Foundation Establishment cultivators arent that cheap.


    Abbess Moonchasers attitude turned cold and lofty by the end of her words.


    Upon hearing that, Fang Chen sped his fist and bowed. I was imprudent and hastily jumped to a conclusion.


    Seeing that her master was infuriated, Abbess Clearlotus interjected out of worry, Master, young master Fang is doing this for Great Xias civilians


    Abbess Moonchaser nodded, and herplexion alleviated. She proceeded to share her analysis concerning the emergence of the Spirit Marrow before finally turning to Fang Chen to ask, What do you n to do? The Blood Spirit Cults Foundation Establishment cultivator might not make a move even if they are at Great Xia.


    Also, Ill be stepping forward to bring in new disciples for my Moon Monastery. I could bring danger upon my sect if my identity ispromised. If so, Ill have to prioritize my sects interests and not help you.


    Fang Chen raised the possibility that Li Daoye had previously mentioned.


    Abbess Moonchaser thought about it and nodded. Thats possible. Its unlikely the Blood Spirit Cult will continue using this ce as a pill cauldron if many cultivators emerge from this ce. They have always kept a low profile and avoided revealing their trail to other cultivators. They have many enemies in the world of cultivation, after all. They might not think much about us, but there are still powerhouses they have to tread carefully around.


    However, Abbess Moonchasers tone suddenly changed. However, you killed their Blood Spirit Cultists. The Foundation Establishment cultivator might stop using Great Xia as a pill cauldron, but hed still avenge hisrades. Youll be in danger as long as hes around. Youd have left a trail behind when you dealt with those cultivators, and Foundation Establishment cultivators like us can easily find them. Thus, I have a suggestion to make.


    Please speak, elder. Fang Chen sped his fist.

 Chapter 142: Spirit Assessment

    Chapter 142: Spirit Assessment


    Ill stay here for a month after the disciple selection is over. If the Foundation Establishment Blood Spirit Cultist makes a move during that period of time, Ill get rid of him on your behalf. Otherwise, Ill return to the Moon Monastery with my people, and Id consider our deal to have been fulfilled. Youll have to pass down the Purple Lightning Talismans heritage to Clearlotus, Abbess Moonchaser said.


    Abbess Clearlotus was stunned. She thought her master was exploiting Fang Chens crisis here, but before she could say a word, thetter nodded and epted the offer.


    How decisive. You should know too that the Purple Lightning Talismans heritage is not a small thing. Abbess Moonchaser frowned.


    The Purple Lightning Talismans heritage is not as important as getting rid of the Foundation Establishment Blood Spirit Cultist, Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    Abbess Moonchaser eyed Fang Chen with a perplexed frown. In the end, she shook her head. Its a pity you arent a woman, or else you could have joined our Moon Monastery.


    That sure is a pity, Li Daoye interjected, though he sheepishly shut his mouth when he saw the crowd looking at him.


    Young master, the imperial pce sent someone over, a servant suddenly reported.


    Fang Chen nodded. Bring him in.


    An hourter, Fang Chen and the others followed a eunuch into the imperial pces garden.


    Astonishingly, the Great Xias emperor wasnt taking the center seat as he usually did; instead, he was standing together with his officials.


    A group of peculiar people took the center stage today. There was a middle-aged man in schrly robes, a farmdy holding an old hen in her arms, an enigmatic individual wearing clothes weaved out of ck feather, and a woman with fiery-red hair.


    The officials of the imperial court were baffled. The surrounding eunuchs and maids looked incredibly nervous, as they tried to figure out the identity of the four people who made the Great Xias emperor stand by their side.


    They arrived fast Abbess Moonchaser remarked with a frown.


    Her arrival caught the attention of Elder Jinnan and the others, especially since she made no attempt to conceal her aura, so the group turned to look at her.


    Abbess Moonchaser, you arrived today too? Elder Jinnan asked with a merry smile.


    Quite a few cultivators directed amicable gazes toward Abbess Moonchaser, but the farmdy holding onto an old hen looked at her with eyes filled with disdain and hostility.


    Abbess Moonchaser acknowledged them with nods.


    Those two are? Elder Jinnan turned his attention to Fang Chen and Li Daoye.


    They knew that the Moon Monastery didnt ept male disciples, so they were perplexed to see her apanied by two men.


    Xia Yun quickly rushed forward and whispered to them, but that only deepened the cultivators frowns.


    Daoist Crow turned to Li Daoye and asked, Unaffiliated cultivator?


    Yes, yes! Li Daoye sheepishly replied.


    Abbess Moonchaser red at him before saying, Hes a disciple of the Eight Trigrams Sect.


    The cultivators who were starting to show looks of disdain nodded. The Eight Trigrams Sect could be considered to be a proper sect with aplete heritage, not to mention that they had a Foundation Establishment cultivator in their ranks.


    Sects that only had Ki Refinement cultivators were thought to be inferior in Infernoze. It was not without reason that was the case. For instance, those sects didnt have the ability to sense the emergence of the Spirit Marrow, so none of them sent anyone over.


    It is like the Eight Trigrams Sect to cheat and deceive, Daoist Crow sneered.


    Li Daoye was infuriated, but he couldnt do anything as he was up against a Foundation Establishment cultivator. All he could do was to turn his head away.


    Xia Yun, Junior Brother Liu, and Junior Sister Tantai were startled. They thought that Li Daoye was really an unaffiliated cultivator, but to think that he belonged to a proper sect too.


    Speaking of which, why didnt the Eight Trigrams Secte? They should have noticed the emergence of the Spirit Marrow faster than any of us given their art of omen reading.


    How perplexing.


    Some cultivators looked at Li Daoye with perplexed frowns.


    Fang Chen and Li Daoye knew that the chances were that the Eight Trigrams Sect were intimidated by the Blood Spirit Cult. They dared not toe here despite knowing both their young master and the emergence of the Spirit Marrow were here.


    How heartless! Li Daoye clenched his fists. He had almost forgotten about that if not for those cultivators reminder.


    Something might have dyed them, Elder Jinnan remarked with a smile. He then turned to Fang Chen and asked, Whos this?


    The officials of the imperial court were bewildered.


    Xia Yun quickly stepped forward to recount Fang Chens history. Upon learning that Fang Chen was just a mortal, the cultivators paid no heed to him.


    After Abbess Moonchaser took her seat, Elder Jinnan nced at Xia Yun and asked, If I remember correctly, youre Xia Yun, right?


    Yes, I am Xia Yun, Xia Yun hurriedly replied.


    <em>Xia Yun?! </em>


    Boom!


    It looked as if a bolt of lightning had struck the old officials of the imperial court. Prime Minister Li Guozhu rubbed his turbid eyes as he looked at Xia Yun in disbelief. <em>T-this person is an ancestor of the imperial family, the great grandfather of the incumbent emperor!</em>


    Most of them had heard about Xia Yuns affairshe was famous for being more interested in the pursuit of immortality over his throne. He had left Great Xia at a young age, and there had been no news from him for a long time. Who could have thought that they would suddenly meet him here today?


    <em>And he looks to be in his forties. Could he have really </em>


    The crowd was astonished and excited, as the truth surfaced in their minds. This also enlightened them to the identities of the peculiarly-dressed individuals in the Imperial Garden.


    Youll be responsible for hosting since this is your turf, Elder Jinnan said with a smile.


    Disciple Xia Yun understands! Xia Yun was excited to have received a task from Elder Jinnan.


    The people gathered here are all elders of Infernoze sects, and we havee here today to take in disciples who are less than thirty years old. More cultivators may arrive over the next few days, so lets start making preparations now, Elder Jinnan said.


    Xia Yun epted the orders. He proceeded to inform the officials about the spirit rain a few days ago, which delighted the crowd. It was as if the world had suddenly chosen to present them with a huge gift.


    This was a rare opportunity for them to embark on the path of immortality!


    An hourter, thirty cultivators from Infernoze took their seats in the square in front of the imperial pce, while Yan Beihan tightly guarded the area with thousands of imperial guards.


    Messengers had been dispatched all over the capital to ry the news to households, demanding all men and women of thirty years of age to head to the square to have their aptitude assessed.


    There was an order for the talent assessment. The imperial family and their rtives had the priority, followed by the nobles and the officials, then the eunuchs and pce maids, and,st but not least, themon popce.


    It didnt even take an hour before the square was packed with people. At the front of the queue were the imperial offspring and scions of distinguished ns.


    Elder Jinnan stroked his beard and asked with a smile, Shall we use our South Heaven Sects Spirit Gauging Bell or yours?


    Your South Heavens Sects Spirit Gauging Bell boasts 36 daosoul imprints. No other sect in Infernoze has a better Spirit Gauging Bell than yours. Lets use yours, the farmdy holding an old hen said.


    The other cultivators nodded. There was no point disputing this as it wasmon knowledge. Using the South Heaven Sects Spirit Gauging Bell should yield the most urate results of all.


    Elder Jinnan smiled. He waved his arm, and a small bell flew out of his sleeves. The bell swiftly expanded to over three meters tall beforending heavily at the center of the square.


    His mystical means drew surprised exims from the crowd. Be it schrs, martial artists, or merchants, all of them were impressed by what they had just seen.


    Its an immortal, a true immortal!


    Paying respect to Lord Immortal!


    Amotion broke out, but that was quickly suppressed by the Imperial Army. The crowd dared not cause a fuss, but they continued looking at Elder Jinnan with heated eyes.


    Tao Yu was astonished. It really is an immortals means.


    Ye Qinghe thought about it before remarking, Such strength should be enough to suppress the likes of Fang Chen, right?


    Tao Yu didnt say a word, but he cast his nce at Fang Chen, who sat near the cultivators together with the other officials.


    Let the spirit assessment begin, Xia Yun projected his voice with his spirit ki, rying his words to every nook and cranny of the capital.


    The capitals youths were trembling with excitement. All of them believed that they possessed exceptional aptitude, and they thought they could achieve an outstanding result in the test and join a cultivator sect.

 Chapter 143: Seven Tolls!

    Chapter 143: Seven Tolls!


    The first to take the test was Xia Yu.


    He was Great Xias crown prince, and he was under thirty years of age too.


    Xia Yus cronies were excited. Their eyes followed him as he slowly made his way up to the Spirit Gauging Bell. If Xia Yu could join a cultivator sect, they would benefit from his halo too.


    Noble Consort Hua was nervous. The surrounding concubines consoled her, saying that Xia Yu could definitely join a cultivator sect. Noble Consort Hua slowly regained herposure before she nced at the empress and said with a smile, If only this happened earlier, your son might have survived.


    The surrounding concubines were horrified. <em>Shes touching on a taboo topic!</em>


    Everyone knew that the empress didnt have any offspring, but in truth, she did give birth to a child at one point, but her child died to a mysterious ailment. The Great Xias emperor put a lid on the matter, and no one mentioned that matter anymore.


    The empress nced at Noble Consort Hua and replied, Know your ce, Noble Consort Hua. Dont make me p you in front of so many immortals. It wont look good on His Majesty, and it wont look good on you either.


    You! Noble Consort Hua was infuriated. She reflexively nced at Fang Chen, and a momentter, she burst intoughter. Even Xia Imperial Duke has no choice but to sit obediently in front of the immortals. Do you dare to p me here?


    You wish to give it a try? the empress coldly replied.


    You madwoman! I shant waste my time bickering with you! Noble Consort Hua sneered before turning back to Xia Yu. <em>My standing will rise as long as Xia Yu joins a cultivator sect!</em>


    Xia Yu stood before the Spirit Gauging Bell with a nervously-beating heart. He knew he was standing right before the doors to immortality. It was either make it or break it.


    Calm down, Xia Yun said. Youd have talent as a cultivator if you can evoke a toll from the Spirit Gauging Bell after striking it. One to three tolls indicate inferior talent. Four to six tolls indicate medium talent. Seven to nine tolls indicate superior talent. If you can evoke seven tolls, you would have no problem joining the South Heaven Sect.


    Yes, Old Ancestor. Xia Yu took a deep breath. He clenched his fist and hurled his fist forth.


    <em>Dong!</em>


    The Spirit Gauging Bell reverberated.


    The crowd was thrilled. To think that the first person to take the test was already blessed with cultivation talent, although it was only one toll thus far.


    Noble Consort Huas face lit up.


    Continue. Dont stop, Xia Yun bellowed.


    Xia Yu struck the Spirit Gauging Bell again.


    <em>Dong!</em>


    <em>Dong!</em>


    Elder Jinnan and the others nodded. As expected of a ce nourished by the Spirit Marrow. The first candidate is already able to evoke three tolls.


    They had gauged the talents of countless mortals thus far, but very few were able to evoke three tolls. Minor sects in Infernoze would readily take Xia Yu in even if he couldnt evoke any more tolls from the Spirit Gauging Bell.


    However, Xia Yu continued striking the Spirit Gauging Bell.


    <em>Dong!</em>


    This was the fourth toll, indicating that Xia Yu possessed medium cultivation talent.


    The members of the imperial family, the scions, and the surrounding popce were overjoyed. Xia Yu was Great Xias crown prince, after all. The more talented he was, the better the position Great Xia was in.


    That fellow is able to induce four tolls? Li Daoye was astounded. He turned to Fang Chen, but thetter was nonchnt about it, so he asked with a hushed voice, Arent you worried at all?


    Whats there to worry about? Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    Xia Yus expression grew increasingly brighter as he continued striking the Spirit Gauging Bell.


    <em>Dong!</em>


    The fifth toll!


    <em>Dong!</em>


    The sixth toll!


    Medium-upper cultivation talent! Daoist Crow shot to his feet, only to sheepishly return to his seat when he saw how calm Elder Jinnan and the others were.


    Elder Jinnan chuckled. Medium-upper cultivation talent is not bad, but you shouldnt forget that this is and nourished by a Spirit Marrow. This wont be the limit.


    Abbess Moonchaser nodded. Every sect would have been happy to take in a person with medium-upper cultivation talent had it been anywhere else, but this was a ce nourished by a Spirit Marrow. There had to be more talented people here.


    I only managed to strike two tolls back then


    Xia Yun looked at his great grandson and bitterly shook his head. If not for him offering an invaluable spirit herb to the South Heaven Sect and consuming spirit medicine over the years, he would probably have been stuck at fourth stage Ki Refinement cultivator.


    Even so, he could vaguely sense that eighth stage Ki Refinement was already his limit. It was unlikely he would ever reach Foundation Establishment in his life.


    Xia Yu sensed the gazes on him, and that made his head heat up. He instinctively let out a deafening roar as he struck the Spirit Gauging Bell once more.


    <em>Dong!</em>


    It was the seventh toll, indicating superior cultivation talent!


    Elder Jinnans breathing hastened. For decades now, the South Heaven Sect hadnt taken in any disciple possessing superior cultivation talent. In fact, thest one they took in was when a Spirit Marrow emerged in Infernoze.


    Two individuals with top cultivation talent appeared then. One joined the South Heaven Sect, and the other joined the Beast Spirit Valley.


    I possess superior cultivation talent! Xia Yu was overjoyed.


    He hurled his fist at the Spirit Gauging Bell once more, but this time, it didnt move or produce any sound. This caused his face to stiffen up.


    Reluctant to ept the result, he hurled his fist at the Spirit Gauging Bell once more, but there was still no toll.


    Xia Yun stepped forward and stopped him. Dont bother. The Spirit Gauging Bell wont toll anymore unless you possess top cultivation talent.


    Xia Yu was slightly disappointed, but he quickly perked up when he remembered that he possessed superior cultivation talent. This meant that he could join a cultivator sect and embark on the path of immortality!


    He hurriedly scanned the crowd and quickly found Fang Chen. He looked at thetter with predatory eyes as if a victorious general eyeing a defeated soldier.


    The officials of the imperial court sensed Xia Yus gaze, and they shook their heads with conflicted hearts. Xia Yu would be a cultivator from this day onward, which would put him on a pedestalpared to Fang Chen.


    They couldnt help but wonder how Fang Chen would fare for the test.


    Not bad. Elder Jinnan pped. He turned to the crowd and asked, Our South Heaven Sect will be taking in this disciple. Do you have any disagreements?


    Elder Jinnan, why dont you give him to our Beast Spirit Valley instead? the farmdy holding an old hen asked.


    Daoist Crow, Immortal Aunt Firecloud, and the others didnt botherpeting. They knew from the start that there was no way they could acquire anyone with superior cultivation talent.


    He wont be the only one with superior cultivation talent. How about I give the next one to you? Elder Jinnan smiled.


    The farmdy holding an old hen pondered about it before nodding. The next one will be ours even if they possess top cultivation talent. Ill let you take him if youre fine with that.


    Elder Jinnan hesitated. He spent a long moment in thought before finally making up his mind, Fine, let''s do that.


    He turned to Xia Yu and said, Come over to my side.


    Quickly go over. Thats South Heaven Sects Elder Jinnan. Dont forget your manners, Xia Yun reminded him.


    Yes, Old Ancestor. Xia Yu nodded. He quickly made his way up to Elder Jinnan and respectfully bowed. Junior Xia Yu pays respect to Elder Jinnan.


    Mm. Youll follow me back to the South Heaven Sect and officially take me as your master after this matter is over. Elder Jinnan nodded with a smile.


    <em>South Heaven Sect?</em>


    Xia Yu btedly realized that he would have to leave Great Xia, and that would mean relinquishing his position as the crown prince.


    Are you reluctant to relinquish your position as the crown prince? Elder Jinnan saw through Xia Yus thoughts. Cultivators pursue eternity like the sun and the moon. Are you unable to put down secr affairs? How can mortal politicspare with the centuries of freedom cultivators enjoy?


    <em>Indeed! Its better to be able to live for centuries than to be the crown prince. I can always return to be the emperor whenever I want to after bing a powerful cultivator. By then, Fang Chen will be nothing in my eyes!</em>


    Xia Yus eyes became heated. He hurriedly replied, Elder, Im willing to follow you to the South Heaven Sect.


    Good. Elder Jinnan smiled. He turned to Xia Yun and said, Lets continue.

 Chapter 144: Who Dares to Steal My Disciple?!

    Chapter 144: Who Dares to Steal My Disciple?!


    The other imperial offspring stepped forward for the spirit assessment.


    Some managed to evoke three tolls, but there were also those who failed to evoke a single toll at all. In the end, of the thirty people or so, only the Sixth Princess managed to evoke four tolls.


    This poured cold water over the crowds enthusiasm. They thought that the other imperial offspring should at least be of medium cultivation talent, considering how Xia Yu was able to evoke seven tolls, but to think only the Sixth Princess met the mark


    In contrast, this showed just how rare Xia Yus cultivation talent was, which prompted the crowd to look at him in awe. It was the same type of gaze that Fang Chen had received back then.


    Xia Yu had never enjoyed such treatment, and his heart swelled up with pride.


    He looked at Fang Chen once more, and coincidentally, thetter looked back at him too. However, Fang Chens gaze was as cid as ever, so much so that he seemed to see a hint of disdain and hostility in it too.


    <em>The first one Ill kill is you once I be a powerful cultivator, </em>Xia Yu sneered in his mind.


    For some reason, he hated Fang Chens gaze. It irked him how thetter acted the same as before despite having be blind.


    The Sixth Princess, who had evoked four tolls, was taken in by Immortal Aunt Firecloud. No onepeted with her as they knew that there would be more people with medium cultivation talent toe.


    No one took in any of the other imperial offspring who evoked three tolls, so they could only trudge to their previous positions with lowered heads. Their mothers looked a little rueful.


    The Sixth Princess was a few years younger than Fang Chen. As she was walking past him, she suddenly turned over and said, Xia Imperial Duke, it was thanks to you that I didnt have to marry Longdus Zhou Xiu. I would have missed this opportunity if so.


    Her words should have been rying gratitude, but they were spoken with a lofty tone. The surrounding officials frowned.


    Youre too polite, Your Highness. The path of immortality is a tough one. May we meet again, Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    The Sixth Princess chuckled. We might, if Xia Imperial Duke possesses cultivation talent too.


    With that, she took her ce beside Immortal Aunt Firecloud.


    Old Ancestor, Xia Imperial Duke is a highly talented martial artist. I believe he should have decent aptitude as a cultivator too, the Great Xias emperor suddenly spoke up.


    Xia Yun turned to Fang Chen and said, Come here for your spirit assessment.


    The crowd looked at Fang Chen with curiosity-filled eyes. Fang Chen was Great Xias number one expert, so they couldnt help but wonder how many tolls he would evoke. <em>Would it be more than Xia Yu?</em>


    Xia Yu also stared at Fang Chen with conflicted eyes. On the one hand, he didnt want him to undergo the spirit assessment and benefit from this opportunity, but on the other hand, he also wanted him to go through it so as to prove his superiority.


    <em>It looks like they dont know that hes already a cultivator. Jinnan and the others are unable to see through him too. I wouldnt have known better myself if not for Clearlotus telling me either. The treasure hes using to conceal his aura must be formidable,</em> Abbess Moonchaser thought with a smile.


    She had no intention of telling others that Fang Chen was a cultivator, as thetter was going to face off with the Blood Spirit Cultist soon. It would be detrimental to reveal his aces in advance.


    With such a thought in mind, Abbess Moonchaser casually cast her nce at the thousands of people gathered in the vicinity.


    Amidst the crowd was a grandfather-grandson duo. The young grandson had a zed look in his eyes, whereas the old grandfather looked excited by the festivity. There were many of such people among the crowd, so they didnt particrly catch anyones attention.


    Ill pass. I dont intend to walk the path of immortality, Fang Chen said after some thought.


    He was not worried about hiscking talent, but he didnt think there was a need for him to go through this as he had already chosen to join the Three Thousand Dao Gate. That was a sect far stronger than any others here.


    Fang Chens rejection further sparked the crowds curiosity.


    Xia Yu interjected with a smile, Imperial Duke Fang, you are the only transcendental-grade duke in our Great Xia, as well as our number one expert. This is a rare opportunity, so I hope you wont miss it. Perhaps, you could join me in the South Heaven Sect.


    Quite a few people voiced their agreement too. There were even officials who urged him to undergo the spirit assessment.


    Minister of Justice Jiang Yushu and the Fifth King exchanged gazes. They didnt say a word as they reserved their concerns. They knew that Fang Chens position in Great Xia would plummet if his cultivation talent proved to becking today.


    Many would take this opportunity to take him down.


    The attention was suddenly all on Fang Chen. In the end, even the empress also spoke up, Chener, why dont you give it a try.


    Aunt, I doubt that I am suited for cultivation, Fang Chen shook his head as he said. However, he stood up and began making his way toward the Spirit Gauging Bell. But since youre the one asking me, the least I can do is to give it a try.


    Excitement rippled across the crowd.


    Xia Yu was both excited and worried. His hands wouldnt stop trembling.


    Hm? He seems to be blind? Elder Jinnan remarked.


    That appears to be the case. Immortal Aunt Firecloud and the others nodded.


    Elder Jinnan frowned. His blindness will disadvantage him as a cultivator even if hes talented.


    Xia Yus heart was put at ease upon hearing those words. He looked at Fang Chen gloatingly.


    I bet Imperial Duke Fang possesses superior cultivation talent.


    But what will happen to Great Xia if Imperial Duke Fang bes a cultivator? Wholl suppress those Greenpine scums?


    Why are you still afraid of Greenpine scums? After today, the people of Greenpine will have to take a detour around us!


    Thats true! Hahaha!


    Such murmurs could be heard from the crowd.


    An old man lightly patted a childs head and asked, My good grandson, he is Fang Chen?


    Mm. The child nodded with a dazed expression.


    The old man had heard that name from one of Zhou Yizengs transmissions. This person had yed a critical role as to why Zhou Yizeng was able to procure six Blood Spirit Divine Pills from Great Xia.


    With such a thought in mind, the old mans smile deepened. But at the same time, he found it a pity that he couldnt continue using Great Xia as a pill cauldron anymore.


    Under everyones gaze, Fang Chen walked up to the Spirit Gauging Bell.


    Strike the bell with your fist. Dont use your inner ki, Xia Yun instructed.


    Fang Chen nodded. He was also curious to know what his aptitude was, though his guess was that it should be inferior. With this thought in mind, he gathered his strength in his fist and struck the Spirit Gauging Bell.


    He felt a surge of spirit ki flowing into his body from the Spirit Gauging Bell. It circted within his body before attempting to return to the Spirit Gauging Bell, only to dissipate before it could do so.


    This meant that the Spirit Gauging Bell wouldnt even reverberate.


    I guess Im unable to evoke even a toll from the Spirit Gauging Bell. Fang Chen shook his head with a bitter smile. <em>Perhaps I wouldnt have any talent as a cultivator at all if not for the encounter I had at the Three Realms Mountain.</em>


    The crowd fell silent too.


    <em>This Not even a single toll?</em>


    Xia Yu was just about to say something when a loud reverberation suddenly echoed from the Spirit Gauging Bell. Not only so, but slight cracks also appeared on the artifacts surface too.


    <em>Dong!</em>


    Everyone was stunned. <em>This doesnt seem right.</em>


    Even Elder Jinnan was taken aback.


    Fang Chen was startled too. A surge of energy suddenly flowed out of his body and struck the Spirit Gauging Bell. He had never noticed such a surge of energy in him before.


    A silhouette manifested above the Spirit Gauging Bell, and a furious bellow ensued, Who dares to steal my disciple?!


    A terrifying aura rippled from this silhouette. All of the cultivators present, including Abbess Moonchaser, copsed to the ground under its suppression.


    The mortals were unfazed, but there was an old man amidst the crowd who fell to the ground with eyes filled with disbelief.

 Chapter 145: Little Brother Fang, What Do You Think?

    Chapter 145: Little Brother Fang, What Do You Think?


    Who is that?


    What a terrifying aura!


    Is that a Golden Core cultivator or


    Elder Jinnan and the othersy unkempt on the floor. They could only barely raise their heads to look at the silhouette, but the reflection of the sun hindered them from taking a good look.


    All of the cultivators present were unnerved. Not even in their wildest imagination did they expect a mere spirit assessment to draw out such a powerhouse.


    Clearly, an old monster in the world of cultivation had chosen the mortal named Fang Chen as his disciple, just that he didnt have time to take him away yet. Nevertheless, he left an imprint on Fang Chen, and this imprint would automatically trigger during a spirit assessment.


    That resulted in the current scene.


    An immortal!


    Its a true immortal!


    Many people in the crowd kneeled to the silhouette with devout expressions.


    His lineage is that terrifying? Abbess Moonchaser was shocked. <em>No wonder he has inherited the Purple Lightning Talismans heritage!</em>


    Fang Chen was stunned too. That silhouette was obviously Daoist Cloudcrane! He didnt know the other party had left an imprint on him. <em>Is this to stop other cultivators from taking me under their wing?</em>


    A bunch of nobodies dares to snatch my disciple from me. Have you grown weary of living? Consider this my first warning. There wont be a second! I wont show mercy. Ill obliterate your souls so that you wont even have a chance to reincarnate! Daoist Cloudcrane sneered at the crowd before dissipating.


    The terrifying aura crushing the cultivators vanished.


    Elder Jinnan and the others awkwardly returned to their feet. They looked at Fang Chen once more, this time with deep fear in their eyes.


    The heck Li Daoye was dazed.


    He would have never thought Fang Chen had such a terrifying background. Just a mere silhouette from his master was enough to crush all of these Foundation Establishment cultivators to the ground! Just how powerful must his master be then?


    He would have to at least be a Golden Core cultivator!


    Heavens, thats a Golden Core cultivator right there! No wonder he has so many talismans. That exins how he picked up the Moonsuck Gold artifact. A cultivator chosen by a Golden Core cultivator cant be gauged by normal standards. He is a monster through and through


    Waves of shock washed over Li Daoyes heart, but that was quickly reced by excitement shortly after. <em>Woohoo! I managed totch onto a thick thigh! Hehehe!</em>


    How is this possible He has been chosen by an even stronger immortal? Xia Yu stared at Fang Chen in disbelief. Indignation shed across his eyes. <em>I have superior cultivation talent. Im going to join the South Heaven Sect, yet I still have to live under Fang Chens shadow?</em>


    The officials of the imperial court were shaken. Slowly, it dawned upon them how Fang Chen had regained his martial cultivation.


    The Great Xias emperor also remembered Fang Chen mentioning that he had regained his martial cultivation after meeting a daoist. Putting two and two together, that daoist was likely the same one who had just crushed all of the immortals here to the ground.


    Some were shocked. Some were horrified.


    Xia Yuns lips quivered in fear. He had lived for more than a hundred years, but this was his first time encountering such a situation. He recalled how he had visited the Fang Manor a while back to threaten Fang Chen, and a chill rose from his feet to his head, causing him to tremble.


    His juniors werent faring any better. Li Daoyes background surprised them, but what happened earlier horrified them. They were only relieved they didnt go too far with their snobbishness and directly insult him.


    I thought His Highness could suppress him this time Ye Qinghe murmured in incredulity.


    He thought now that Xia Yu had been deemed to have superior cultivation talent, it wouldnt be long before he became strong enough to surpass Fang Chen. Yet, who could have thought that Fang Chen had already been taken in by a powerful immortal?


    The empress was shocked too. A momentter, she nced at Noble Consort Hua.


    Thetter sensed her gaze, and she fidgeted ufortably on the spot, not daring to look the empress in the eye.


    That brought a smirk to the empress face.


    The surroundings fell silent. Everyone was gripped with shock.


    It was a while before Elder Jinnan broke this deathly silence. He sped his fist at Fang Chen and spoke politely, Little Brother, I didnt expect you to have a lineage. Now that I look back at it, we were imprudent. Please apologize to your master on our behalf when you meet him.


    Youre too polite, elder. Fang Chen nodded.


    Please dont call me elder. Your master is our elder, which makes us peers. Elder Jinnan hurriedly waved his hands.


    Daoist Crow and the others quickly voiced their agreement as well.


    Xia Yu looked at this sight with conflicted eyes. <em>Fang Chens master must be formidable for these immortals to act like that. I lost to him as a martial artist. I lost to him as amander. Am I going to lose to him as a cultivator too? </em>


    <em>This isnt fair!</em>


    Xia Yu clenched his fists with reddened eyes.


    Elder Jinnan and the others didnt dare to let Fang Chen take the spirit assessment anymore, but the crowd had no doubt that thetters talent surpassed Xia Yu. How else would Fang Chen be chosen by such a powerful expert?


    Even Elder Jinnan and the others thought the same too, so they arranged for him to take a seat beside Elder Jinnan.


    Seeing Fang Chen rest on a chair while he stood behind Elder Jinnan further stoked Xia Yus sense of indignance and humiliation.


    But his indignation couldnt change the oue of what had happened.


    The spirit assessment continued, just that there was another seat at the center reserved for the Great Xias War God.


    The Sixth Princess, who mocked Fang Chen earlier, meekly hid behind Immortal Aunt Firecloud. She asionally nced at Fang Chen, but she dared not to directly look at him.


    The next ones to get assessed were the officials and their young offspring.


    Most of them could only evoke a single toll. Some couldnt even evoke a toll. Only in rare cases were there two to three tolls. There wasnt a single four tolls.


    The crowds confidence swiftly waned. Those who were still waiting in line felt nervous, fearing that their results would be unsatisfactory.


    <em>Dong!</em>


    <em>Dong!</em>


    <em>Dong!</em>


    <em>Dong!</em>


    <em>Dong!</em>


    Five tolls!


    The crowd looked at Li Huafeng in envy. These five tolls were enough for Li Huafeng to join a cultivator sect and walk the path of immortality.


    Congrattions, Prime Minister Li.


    Huafeng has had outstanding talent as a martial artist. I can see he also towers above the others as a cultivator too.


    Li Guozhu was overjoyed to learn that the Li n was going to have a cultivator. Being a cultivator was even more prestigious than being a prime minister!


    Meanwhile, Li Huafeng kept a nonchnt expression. He was relieved that the result wasnt terrible, but at the same time, he wasnt satisfied either, as his cultivation talent was inferior to Xia Yu and Fang Chen.


    Ill be taking thatd. Any objections? Daoist Crow said.


    The other cultivators didnt say anything, but surprisingly, Elder Jinnan nced at Fang Chen and asked, Little Brother Fang, what do you think?


    That question immediately sent cold sweat gushing from Li Huafengs head. Li Guozhus heart skipped a beat as well.


    They knew Fang Chen and Li Huafeng had a conflict between them in their younger years, and it wasnt just any minor conflict

 Chapter 146: I Shall Sever Your Immortal Path

    Chapter 146: I Shall Sever Your Immortal Path


    Its over for him, Tao Yu murmured.


    Ye Qinghe was shaken. He asked with a suppressed voice, Will Fang Chen really dare to stand in Li Huafengs way at a time like this?


    Why not? Tao Yu sneered. You didnt see what happened earlier? Fang Chens master is a big deal. Even these immortals dare not to offend Fang Chen.


    Sss! Ye Qinghe gasped. Then when ites to our turn


    Dont worry, I know Fang Chens temperament. He wont get back at us on such a matter. However, the same cant be said about Li Huafeng. That fellow caused the death of a general who once served under Old Master Fang. That general taught Fang Chen how to mobilize troops and deploy formations, Tao Yu said.


    I hope so Ye Qinghe looked conflicted.


    Li Guozhus face darkened. He looked as if he wanted to say something, but he held his tongue. The surrounding officials secretly exchanged gazes too.


    Cold sweat wouldnt stop pouring from Li Huafengs forehead, so much so that they flowed down to his fingertips and dripped on the floor. That was how nervous he was right now.


    Everyone waited with bated breaths for Fang Chens verdict.


    Li Huafeng looks talented. Ill find time to ask my master if he wants to take him in, Fang Chen remarked with a smile.


    Since thats the case, I shall take a step back here. Daoist Crow didnt hesitate to admit defeat.


    <em>As expected </em>Most people could already guess how Fang Chen would deal with Li Huafeng.


    Li Guozhu sighed, looking as if he had aged years in an instant.


    Li Huafengs face turned pale. He didn''t think Fang Chen would ask his master to take him in; thetter was using this as an excuse to stop him from joining any sects. Gritting his teeth, he mustered his courage and said, Xia Imperial Duke, I know we have our differences, but why not let bygones be bygones? You shouldnt stop me from bing a cultivator over past affairs.


    Elder Jinnan and the others were startled to hear those words, and it prompted them to look at Li Huafeng with contemtive eyes.


    You dont believe me. So be it. Fang Chen chuckled. He turned to Elder Jinnan and the others. Is anyone willing to take him under their wing?


    Hes not suited for our South Heaven Sect, Elder Jinnan was the first one to reject Li Huafeng.


    The other cultivators also shook their heads without bothering to look at Li Huafeng.


    Even Daoist Crow, who had wanted to take in Li Huafeng earlier, said, I made a mistake earlier. This child isnt suited to join my lineage. I dont think were destined to be master and disciple.


    Li Huafeng looked as if he had been struck by a bolt of lightning. Looking at the cultivators who refused to take him in just because they didnt want to offend Fang Chen, he felt infuriated and despaired.


    Seeing that, Xia Yun told Li Huafeng, You should wait by the side for now. The cultivators might change their mindster.


    I Li Huafengs eyes were brimming with indignation.


    Time is short. Dont stop others from having their spirit assessment. Xia Yuns face darkened.


    Li Huafeng could only bitterly drag himself to the side and wallow in despair.


    The following spirit assessment passed very quickly. Most people couldnt evoke a single toll. Within half a day, they had already tested thousands of people.


    Only ten or so people had met the mark to be taken in by a cultivator sect, and most of them had evoked four to five tolls. As for those who evoked three tolls, they could only stand by the side for now.


    Xia Yun told them that they would still have a chance to join other sects in the future even if these cultivators didnt take them under their wing, so there was no need to feel too down.


    All of the capitals scions had undergone the spirit assessment by this point, so the Imperial Guards began ushering themon popce toward the Spirit Gauging Bell too.


    This time, they switched to another Spirit Gauging Bell.


    Cracks had appeared on the South Heaven Sects Spirit Gauging Bell due to Fang Chen earlier, so after testing thousands of candidates, Elder Jinnan felt heartache and decided to stow it off. They switched over to the Spirit Gauging Bell of the farmdy from the Beast Spirit Valley.


    <em>Dong!</em>


    <em>Dong!</em>


    <em>Dong!</em>


    <em>Dong!</em>


    <em>Dong!</em>


    <em>Dong!</em>


    <em>Dong!</em>


    Seven tolls, just like Xia Yu!


    The crowd looked at the honest-looking youth with eyes filled with shock and envy. Even Xia Yu could hardly believe his eyes. Such an ordinary person dressed in simple clothes has the same cultivation talent as him?


    Isnt that Pancake Zhang? You know, the one who sells pancakes right outside the imperial pce?


    You dare call him Pancake Zhang? Hell be Immortal Zhang in the future!


    Right right right! Me and my horrid mouth!


    Id have never expected Young Zhang to be so talented! His talent would have been buried if the immortals didnte here looking for disciples. He might have spent his entire life selling pancakes just like that!


    Heaven isnt blind!


    The crowd murmured among themselves.


    <em>A pancake seller? </em>Xia Yusplexion turned even more awful. <em>A pancake seller actually has the same cultivation talent as me. Im the only one in the imperial family who evoked seven tolls. There isnt a single scion in the capital who is anywhere close to Pancake Zhang!</em>


    The farmdy holding an old hen turned to Elder Jinnan with a smirk. As we have discussed earlier, this child shall be joining our Beast Spirit Valley.


    Elder Jinnan didnt say a word, but he gestured with his eyes. The farmdy btedly remembered Fang Chens presence and hurriedly turned to him. Daoist Fang


    Since you have made your agreement, I shant get in the way, Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    The farmdy breathed a sigh of relief. She gestured Pancake Fang over. Come over.


    Pancake Fang slowly made his way over, but he first sped his fist and bowed to Fang Chen.


    The crowd was startled, but none of them thought that it was out of ce. Fang Chen didmand high prestige in the capital, after all. What they didnt know was that Pancake Fangs gesture had another significance behind it.


    Fang Chen looked at him with a smile. You have to work hard as a cultivator.


    Young Lord Imperial Duke, Ill take your words to heart! Pancake Fang replied before taking his position behind the farmdy.


    To this point, the South Heaven Sect and Beast Spirit Valley had taken in a disciple with superior cultivation talent each.


    Next up is Ah? Jade Fairy?!


    Even Jade Fairy is here for the spirit assessment?!


    Of course! Everyone of thirty years old and below is allowed to participate in the spirit assessment. Why cant Jade Fairy be here?


    The crowd murmured as they intently watched the white silhouette.


    Jade Fairy walked with bare feet. Her face, which was concealed by a veil, captured the attention of most men in the crowd. In particr, the eyes of Ye Qinghe, Xia Yu, and the others heated up.


    So shes the famous Jade Fairy in the capital. The empress chuckled. Her appearance does resemble a fairy. I would have been drawn to her if I was a man too.


    The Great Xias emperor nced at the empress with a perplexed frown. Its my first time seeing her.


    I know. The empress nodded with a smile. Her eyes drifted over to Fang Chens side, as she knew that Jade Fairy had stayed at the Fang Manor for a few days. Based on her understanding of her nephew, the two of them had to be acquainted.


    Among the crowd, Fang Qingyaos maid anxiously urged, Young miss, even Jade Fairy has gone for the spirit assessment. You should do the same too!


    Fang Qingyao looked hesitant. <em>Am I really suited to be a cultivator? If I be a cultivator, who will take care of the capitals Compassion Halls? Who will manage the Verdant Apothecary Hall that my father passed down to me?</em>

 Chapter 147: Nine Tolls!

    Chapter 147: Nine Tolls!


    Lets see how it goes first Fang Qingyao was unable to make up her mind.


    Her maid anxiously whispered, Young miss, go for it! Even Imperial Duke Fang has joined a cultivator sect. If you be a cultivator too, you might just have a shot with Imperial Duke Fang


    Fang Qingyaos face turned red. She coyly eximed, What nonsense are you spouting?


    Young miss, its not that I want to lecture you, but I have seen you sitting in a daze when Imperial Duke Fang doesnt visit the Compassion Hall. I wonder who you are thinking about, her maid teased.


    Hush, Jade Fairy is about to undergo her spirit assessment, Fang Qingyao quickly changed the topic.


    Everyones attention fell on Jade Fairy.


    She was as famous as Fang Chen in the capital; it would be hard to find anyone here who hadnt heard about her. Even the officials knew about her. She was the number one beauty of the Great Xia Rivers Jade Fairy Boat, after all.


    Jade Fairy stood in front of the Spirit Gauging Bell. She nced at Fang Chen before she raised her slender arm, clenched her fist, and hurled it forth.


    <em>Dong!</em>


    The Spirit Gauging Bell tolled.


    Jade Fairy continued striking the bell.


    <em>Dong!</em>


    <em>Dong!</em>


    <em>Dong!</em>


    The Spirit Gauging Bell continued to toll.


    Four tolls!


    The crowd was excited. This showed that Jade Fairy was sufficiently talented to at least join one of the cultivation sects here. At this rate, she might be a real fairy in the future!


    A few women with simr backgrounds as Jade Fairy looked at her in envy.


    <em>Dong!</em>


    <em>Dong!</em>


    Six tolls!


    The crowds eyes slowly widened in shock.


    Elder Jinnan and the others took another look at Jade Fairy. Six tolls represented medium-upper cultivation talent, which was rather decent.


    The Sixth Princess standing behind Immortal Aunt Firecloud clenched her fists as she red at Jade Fairy with a livid face. <em>How can a secr womans cultivation talent be higher than mine?!</em>


    <em>Dong!</em>


    Seven tollsthis represented superior cultivation talent!


    The crowd fell utterly silent. This was the third superior cultivation talent thus far, but no one thought that it would appear on Jade Fairy!


    Our South Heaven Sect will be taking her, Elder Jinnan dered.


    <em>Dong! </em>


    Right after he said those words, the bell tolled once more.


    Eight tolls!


    The crowd was dumbstruck. This was the first time the crowd had seen anyone achieving a result of eight tolls.


    The farmdys eyes heated up Jinnan, shes mine. Ick a personal disciple. Ill fight you if you darepete with me over her!


    Daoist Crow and the others exchanged pitiful looks. They didnt have the means topete with the South Heaven Sect and the Beast Spirit Valley, so they could only watch helplessly as this piece of fine jade fell into someone elses hand.


    Elder Jinnan was stilling to terms with the situation. With a cultivation talent of eight tolls, Jade Fairy was on par with the two top prodigies who appeared in Infernoze back then.


    Shes talented, Fang Chen murmured under his breath.


    That wont do. Our South Heaven Sect will be taking her! Knowing he couldnt let such a talent slip past his fingers, Elder Jinnan immediatelypeted with the farmdy despite her threat.


    <em>Dong!</em>


    While the two of them were in a heated argument, yet another toll echoed.


    Everyone was dumbstruck. Even the arguing Elder Jinnan and farmdy shut their mouths and stared at Jade Fairy with dazed eyes.


    N-nine tolls? I have never seen anyone with a cultivation talent of nine tolls before. How long has it been since such an individual appeared in Infernoze? 300 years? 500 years? Daoist Crow eximed in shock.


    There was a moment of silence before deafening cheers broke out.


    Themon popce didnt understand the true significance of nine tolls; all they knew was that Jade Fairy had achieved something incredible and brought honor to their Great Xia.


    C-continue Xia Yun stuttered.


    I didnt expect myself to be so talented, Jade Fairy muttered. She tried striking the Spirit Gauging Bell once more, but it didnt produce any more reverberation.


    Nine tolls is the peak. A person who can evoke nine tolls has one of the best cultivation talents in the world. Elder Jinnan excitedly rose from his seat. Young miss, are you willing to join our South Heaven Sect?


    Theres nothing good about the South Heaven Sect. Come to our Beast Spirit Valley. Ill take you in as my personal disciple. The farmdy stood up as well.


    Xia Yus eyes became heated. He thought of something and hurriedly spoke up, Jade Fairy, Im at the South Heaven Sect too. Why dont you join us so that we can look after each other?


    Jade Fairy paid no heed to Xia Yu and instead turned to Fang Chen. Lord Imperial Duke, which sect do you think is more suited for me?


    The crowd was stunned.


    Xia Yu first looked at Jade Fairy, followed by Fang Chen, and he suddenly felt as if someone had shoved dog poop down his throat. He felt disgusted all over.


    Why are you asking a mortal? What would he know? That being said, someone of your talent is qualified to be my disciple, a cold voice suddenly echoed from the sky.


    The crowd hurriedly raised their heads.


    It was a purple-robed woman standing on a sword in mid-air. She was looking at Jade Fairy with glowing eyes.


    <em>Shes flying on a sword </em>


    Once again, the crowd found themselves shocked by the means of the cultivators. They had seen many incredible sights today, but sword flying was a feat that was often associated with the strongest experts in novels.


    To them, such a feat looked even more incredible than what Daoist Cloudcrane did.


    Elder Jinnans face darkened. Fellow daoist


    He wasnt intimidated by the purple-robed womans presence or feat. Even Ki Refinement cultivators were capable of sword flight, though they would have been much less adept at it than a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Who are you calling a fellow daoist?


    The purple-robed woman red at Elder Jinnan. A powerful aura gushed forth from her, and Elder Jinnans knees immediately fell to the ground.


    To thetters shock, he was unable to move at all!


    Golden Core?!


    The farmdy and the others gasped as they eyed the purple-robed woman with fearful eyes.


    The pale-faced Elder Jinnan immediately understood what kind of entity he was up against, so he hurriedly changed his words, E-Elder!


    Thats more like it. The purple-robed woman chuckled. She retracted her aura, and only then was Elder Jinnan able to return to his feet. Youre not wrong to say that nine tolls is the peak, but your Spirit Gauging Bell doesnt meet the mark, so the spirit assessment you conducted isnt urate. If you dont get that, I suggest you step down here lest you mislead others.


    After teaching Elder Jinnan a lesson, the purple-robed woman turned to Jade Fairy and asked, Miss, are you willing to take me as your master?


    Jade Fairys eyes flickered. <em>The purple-robed woman is stronger than Elder Jinnan and the others by a huge margin, but</em> She looked to Fang Chen, and only when thetter nodded did she finally bow to the purple-robed woman. Paying respect to master.


    Good. Youll being with me then.


    The purple-robed woman waved her hand, and a surge of spirit ki enveloped Jade Fairy and lifted her up onto the flying sword.


    It was yet another incredible sight that evoked awe from the crowd.


    Please wait for a moment, elder. Fang Chen sped his fist.


    You need something? the purple-robed woman impassively asked.


    May I know your sect name? Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    And you think youre qualified to know that? The purple-robed woman chuckled under her breath before turning around, not wanting to waste any more time here.


    It was then that Jade Fairy spoke up. Elder, please answer Imperial Duke Fangs question.


    You and him The purple-robed woman cast an assessing gaze at Jade Fairy before finally shaking her head. Youre destined to be a sword immortal. You ought to sever ties with those from the secr world.


    She then turned to Elder Jinnan and the others. I came over to take a look after sensing the Spirit Marrow. This miss should be the greatest beneficiary of the spirit rain, so Ill be taking her with me. You can take whoever else is left. Farewell.


    After saying her piece, the purple-robed woman departed from the scene with Jade Fairy in a sh of light, disappearing in the horizon in a matter of seconds.


    Elder Jinnan and the others had awful looks on their faces. Not only had they been robbed of their disciple, but the other party even humiliated them on top of that

 Chapter 148: Trade Fair

    Chapter 148: Trade Fair


    Jade Fairy has gone off to be an immortal


    I wonder if well ever get to see her again.


    The crowd felt wistful about Jade Fairys abrupt departure.


    What a pity Daoist Crow sighed. She wouldnt have been stolen away if we conducted the spirit assessment earlier.


    Elder Jinnan red at Daoist Crow.


    Thats fate. The farmdy harrumphed. Her tone lightened as she remarked in contemtion, That woman is a sword immortal. None of the grade-6 states I know has a sword immortals heritage, so shes likely from a grade-5 or even grade-4 state.


    Immortal Aunt Firecloud and the others gasped.


    Grade-5 states had Golden Core cultivators, whereas grade-4 states had legendary Nascent Soul powerhouses.


    Those levels were like a legend to them. Not once had they met a Nascent Soul cultivator since they became a cultivator.


    <em>Grade-4 state </em>


    Xia Yu, the Sixth Princess, Pancake Zhang, and the others were shocked to hear that term. Great Xia had just be a grade-8 state; it was a long shot off from matching a grade-4 state.


    I wonder what the cultivators in a grade-4 state would be like. Their streets must be filled with Foundation Establishment cultivators, and even Golden Core cultivators are less than dogs, Daoist Crow remarked.


    The crowd fell silent upon hearing those words.


    Elder Jinnan red at Daoist Crow and asked, What does it make us if even Golden Core cultivators are less than dogs?


    Im just drawing an example. Dont mind me, dont mind me. Daoist Crow yed it off with augh before changing the topic. Lets continue the spirit assessment. I have a suggestion to make. Why dont all of us take out our Spirit Gauging Bells to hasten the process?


    The cultivators gave it some thought before nodding.


    While the spirit assessment depleted the Spirit Gauging Bells daosoul imprints, they thought that it was best for them to make haste lest history repeat itself. Thus, they took out their Spirit Gauging Bells, which came in all shapes and sizes.


    The spirit assessment finally continued, but the progress was much faster now that they were simultaneously assessing more than thirty people.


    Out of curiosity, Fang Chen turned to Elder Jinnan and asked, Elder Jinnan, how much does Spirit Gauging Bells cost?


    Elder Jinnan was surprised to hear that question. He asked probingly, Daoist Fang, are you nning to buy a Spirit Gauging Bell for Great Xia?


    Fang Chen nodded.


    The cultivators were surprised.


    Great Xia had caught their notice due to the Spirit Marrow nurturing many talented individuals here, but that was all there was to it. It was still a barren ce with hardly any spirit ki, so it was unlikely for even more talented individuals to appear after this disciple selection.


    Daoist Fang, you should know that an artifacts potency is determined by its daosoul imprint, but theres another way to ssify themHeaven, Earth, ck, and Yellow. Artifacts of twelve daosoul imprints and below are low Yellow-tier artifacts. Those with 13 to 36 daosoul imprints are mid Yellow-tier artifacts, so on and so forth, Elder Jinnan said.


    Our South Heaven Sects Spirit Gauging Bell is a mid Yellow-tier artifact with 32 daosoul imprints. Our sect master bought it in a trade fair from a grade-5 states major sect. Its daosoul imprints have loosened from many years of usage, but it still cost us 900 low-grade ki stones.


    The farmdy nodded in agreement. Spirit Gauging Bells are expensive artifacts. Daoist Fang, if youre nning to buy it for your country, Id advise you to save your ki stones.


    Is no one in Infernoze capable of forging Spirit Gauging Bells? Fang Chen was surprised to hear that. At the same time, his curiosity regarding the trade fair was piqued.


    The cultivators exchanged baffled looks upon hearing his question.


    Elder Jinnan shook his head and bitterly replied, The daosoul imprints on Spirit Gauging Bells are intricate. Our Infernoze doesnt have a cksmith capable of forging them. In fact, Id go further to say that grade-5 states are incapable of forging them as well. Our Spirit Gauging Bellse from grade-4 states or even grade-3 states, though we dont know for sure since we have never been to those ces.


    Xia Yu and the others realized that not even cultivator sects were omnipotent. Just the Spirit Gauging Bells before them were already beyond the means of Infernozes cultivation sects. They had no choice but to buy it from the markets.


    Spirit Gauging Bells are also rather rare. You might not be able to purchase one even if you have the ki stones, Abbess Moonchaser added. Usually, were only able to procure obsolete artifacts and pills from grade-5 states through trade fairs.


    Abbess Moonchaser, what is the trade fair you speak of? Fang Chen asked.


    Think of it as a market organized by cultivator merchants, Abbess Moonchaser exined. When a merchant from a grade-5 state ns to organize a trade fair, they will inform their contacts in grade-6 states. This is how we usually acquire items exclusive to grade-5 states. Simrly, thats also how grade-5 states procure their items from grade-4 states.


    These trade fairs also double as a gathering for cultivators to exchange their insights regarding cultivation. If you want a Spirit Gauging Bell, our Moon Monastery has a spare one that we can sell to you.


    Abbess Moonchasers voice was directly ryed to Fang Chens ears, so no one else heard those words.


    Fang Chen looked at Abbess Moonchaser and nodded.


    Daoist Crow looked at his Spirit Gauging Bell and felt a heartache. At this rate, it wont be long before my Spirit Gauging Bell spoils.


    Its the same for the rest of us too, Elder Jinnan replied with a helpless sigh.


    The daosoul imprints of the South Heaven Sects Spirit Gauging Bell had faded a lot after what happened earlier with Fang Chen. There were even cracks on the bell itself. It would cost them a small fortune to have it repaired.


    Its worth losing a bit of ki stones to acquire talented disciples, the farmdy said with a smile. Thats the reason we bought the Spirit Gauging Bells at all.


    The other cultivators nodded in agreement. Daoist Crow agreed as well, but that didnt stop him from feeling the pinch.


    They thought that Fang Chen had dropped the thought of purchasing a Spirit Gauging Bell, so the conversation ended there. Just then, Fang Chens gaze fell on ady.


    Thedy was standing before one of the Spirit Gauging Bells with a nervous expression.


    <em>Dong!</em>


    <em>Dong!</em>


    <em>Dong!</em>


    <em>Dong!</em>


    <em>Dong!</em>


    <em>Dong!</em>


    <em>Dong!</em>


    Yet another seven tolls!


    The crowd turned to look at the woman, including those beside her. If not for Xia Yun berating them, they might have forgotten that they were undergoing the spirit assessment themselves.


    While Jade Fairys astounding result had set an optimistic tone, the only ones who had evoked seven tolls so far were Xia Yu and Pancake Zhang. The appearance of another person with superior cultivation talent induced shock and envy from the crowd.


    Young miss has evoked seven tolls! a maid in the crowd cheered in delight.


    Many people voiced their congrattions, including the person who gifted the Moonsunk Gold Truncheon to Fang Chen a while back, Li Maocai. He was overjoyed about the situation, with someone whom he shared close ties with proving to be a talented cultivator.


    This woman was involved in Zhou Xius case, right? Some of the officials found Fang Qingyaos face familiar, and they quickly turned to look at Fang Chen in astonishment.


    Back then, Zhou Xiu was in the sport of hunting down Great Xias merchant convoys as prey. Fang Qingyaos Verdant Apothecary Hall unfortunately caught his notice, and just as she was in a dire position, Fang Chen suddenly stepped forward and rescued her.


    That resulted in a huge series of troubleter on.


    Many of the officials had investigated Fang Qingyao due to that, so it wasnt difficult for them to recognize her.


    Fang Qingyao stood before the Spirit Gauging Bell in a daze. She never expected to possess superior cultivation talent, and her brain stalled to a halt. It was only when she heard the voice she had been dreaming about all this while that she suddenly snapped awake.


    Congrattions, Miss Fang, Fang Chen said.

 Chapter 149: Don’t Let Them Down

    Chapter 149: Don¡¯t Let Them Down


    Young master Fang, ah no, Imperial Duke Fang Fang Qingyao stuttered with a reddened face.


    Elder Jinnan and the others were intrigued. They could tell that there were peculiarities between Fang Chen and Jade Fairy back then, and it seemed the same for this woman too.


    It should be my turn, right? Daoist Crow asked the other cultivators.


    Let her choose, Fang Chen said.


    Daoist Crow was startled. He was displeased, but he dared not express it in view of Fang Chens background, so he sheepishly replied, All right, well let her choose.


    Miss Fang, the elders gathered here are from major cultivator sects. Who do you wish to take as your master? Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    Fang Qingyao slowly calmed down. She looked at the cultivators with a conflicted expression, and a secondter, she shook her head and said, I dont want to be a cultivator


    <em>You dont want to be a cultivator?</em>


    Elder Jinnan and the others were taken aback. The Great Xias emperor and the officials of the imperial court took a long stare at Fang Qingyao.


    <em>Is thisdy out of her mind? Such a rare opportunity was presented before her, but she wants to turn it down?</em>


    Among the crowd, Fang Qingyaos maid and Li Maocai stared anxiously at Fang Qingyao. They looked as if they wanted to rush onto the stage and choose a sect on Fang Qingyaos behalf.


    Why is that so? Fang Chen asked.


    Wholl look after the orphans in the Compassion Halls if I leave? Fang Qingyao whispered.


    Fang Qingyaos maid fell silent.


    She knew Fang Qingyao had always fancied Fang Chen, but she dared not to express it due to the huge gap in their standings. Fang Qingyao could have closed the gap between them if she became an immortal; Fang Chen wouldnt have been far beyond her reach anymore


    Yet, she was giving up on this opportunity for the orphans in the Compassion Halls?


    Fang Qingyaos maid knew how difficult it was for her to make this decision.


    Abbess Clearlotus whispered into Abbess Moonchasers ears, and thetter shot to her feet and looked at Fang Qingyao. Young miss, are you willing to join our Moon Monastery?


    Abbess Moonchaser, we have agreed to let her choose by herself, Daoist Crow remarked in dissatisfaction.


    Abbess Moonchaser ignored him and continued staring intently at Fang Qingyao.


    Miss Fang, the opportunity to be a cultivator is tough toe by. Your temperament is indeed suited for the Moon Monasterys cultivation methods. As for the Compassion Halls, Ill make sure that its properly managed even when youre no longer around. You dont have to worry about it, Fang Chen advised with a smile.


    Abbess Moonchaser nced at Fang Chen and nodded. She would remember this favor.


    Elder Jinnan and the others sighed. Daoist Crows face turned livid. However, they had no choice but to step down here since Fang Chen had already spoken up.


    All that was left was whether Fang Qingyao was willing to join the Moon Monastery or not.


    Fang Qingyao was still in a dilemma.


    Seeing that, Fang Chen gestured to the Great Xias emperor and the officials of the imperial court and said, Miss Fang, even if Im unable to take care of the Compassion Halls, His Majesty and our Great Xias officials will look after it on your behalf. No one will dare to bully the orphans in the Compassion Hall under their watch.


    Those words made the Great Xias emperor frown, but he nodded. Xia Imperial Duke is right. Young miss, you need not worry. My men will keep an eye on the capitals Compassion Halls. You maye back to visit the orphans whenever you wish.


    Indeed, indeed. The officials voiced their agreement too.


    Big Sister Fang, you can open even more Compassion Halls once you be a cultivator!


    Ill be hitting the bell with Lil Fifth and the others soon! If we pass, we will be cultivators like you.


    Thats right, Miss Fang. Dont give up on such an opportunity over old folks like us. Youre a kind girl. Who knows? You might be able to treat our ailments after you be a cultivator!


    Such words could be heard from the crowd.


    They wereing from the elderly and the young. They looked fine on the surface, but most of them carried some sort of ailment.


    Miss Fang, you shouldnt let them down, Fang Chen added.


    Those words woke Fang Qingyao up. Her eyes hardened with determination, and she nodded. She slowly made her way toward Abbess Moonchaser.


    Abbess Moonchaser nodded in satisfaction. She turned to Daoist Crow and the others and said, Our Moon Monastery will be taking just this disciple. We wontpete with you over the rest.


    That alleviated Daoist Crow and the othersplexions.


    In the crowd, Fang Qingyaos maid suddenly frowned in confusion. Wait, our young miss is going to be a nun? <em>This is different from what I expected.</em>


    The spirit assessment continued.


    While most people in the capital were gathered on the square in front of the imperial pce, Huang Sihai, Niu Jue, and a few other Valiant Defenders arrived at an ordinary courtyard.


    A few dried corpsesy in front of them.


    The Valiant Defenders had just moved them out of the room. There had been no attempt to hide these corpses at all; the fear these people felt before their untimely death was carved onto their faces.


    Milord, they are all here, Niu Jue said. He beckoned with his hand, and a Valiant Defender escorted a terrified middle-aged man over.


    Is he the owner of this house? Huang Sihai asked the middle-aged man.


    I-it really is Old Liu and the others! How did theynd in such a tragic plight? The middle-aged man mustered his courage to take a look, and his eyes immediately reddened.


    Youre their neighbor. Did you notice anything amiss? Huang Sihai asked.


    Niu Jue and the others turned grim.


    Thest time they found such dried corpses was in a Compassion Halls empty well. That incident led to the downfall of the Valiant Defenders Enforcement Envoy Liu, the Vice Minister of Rites Qin Dong, and many other officials.


    It hadnt been long since, and something simr happened again at this critical moment.


    I I saw Old Lius grandson bringing an old man into the house, the middle-aged man hurriedly replied.


    Theres a survivor. Huang Sihais face turned grim. He turned to the middle-aged man and said, Youll being with us. Point the old man out to us if you see him, but dont cause a fuss lest you rm him.


    Yes! The middle-aged man nodded, not daring to turn down a Valiant Defenders order.


    <em>The young master must have expected something to order us to patrol the capital at this time. There must be a Blood Spirit Cultist among us right now,</em> Huang Sihai thought.


    Many pairs of eyesbed through the crowd, but most people were too focused on the Spirit Gauging Bell to notice anything amiss. The middle-aged man soon noticed a familiar face and yelped, only for Huang Sihai to sp his mouth right after.


    Just point him out, Huang Sihai quietly ordered.


    The middle-aged man quickly pointed the person out with his finger.


    Huang Sihai saw an old man holding a childs hand. The old man had hardly any hair, looking like an ailing elder who had a foot in the grave.


    Hm?


    The old man seemed to have sensed something, prompting him to turn his head around and scan the surroundings, but he didnt find anything. Nevertheless, a sliver of doubt shed across his eyes.


    While the crowd was busy undergoing their spirit assessment, a Valiant Defender discreetly walked over to Fang Chens side, leaned over, and whispered a few words to him.


    Fang Chen nodded before raising his hand, a gesture for the other party to back down. Then, he continued watching the spirit assessment as if nothing had happened at all.


    The sky slowly darkened.


    The Valiant Defenders brought in torches, ensuring that the area remained well-lit after sunset. The spirit assessment continued. Elder Jinnan and the others showed no inclination to rest.


    Cultivators didnt need to rest, after all.

 Chapter 150: A Blood Debt Should Be Repaid With Blood

    Chapter 150: A Blood Debt Should Be Repaid With Blood


    Seven days passed in the blink of an eye.


    Aside from Xia Yu and Pancake Zhang, there were a few more people who joined the South Heaven Sect and the Beast Spirit Valley. However, they were only of medium-upper cultivation talent, evoking just six tolls.


    Daoist Crow, Immortal Aunt Firecloud, and the others took in more disciples as well.


    In contrast, the Sixth Princess cultivation talent no longer looked as formidable as before. Beside her stood a few children dressed in more humble clothing. Some of them possessed the same cultivation talent as the Sixth Princess, and some exceeded her even.


    More cultivators arrived in the capital today. Some were from Infernoze, but there were also cultivators from the other grade-6 states too. Even more Spirit Gauging Bells were ced on the square in front of the imperial pce.


    At this rate, the spirit assessment should end in another three to five days time.


    A few unaffiliated cultivators arrived at Great Xia too.


    There was one Foundation Establishment cultivator among them, whereas the rest were at Ki Refinement. They didnt dare to cause a fuss before Elder Jinnan and the others, and it didnt help that they didnt have Spirit Gauging Bells either. Thus, they could only pick disciples the others didnt want, namely those who evoked three tolls.


    Old Ancestor Xia Yun is right! Ye Qinghe was overjoyed.


    Both he and Tao Yu had evoked three tolls, so their hearts lurched after the spirit assessment. Yet, they were taken in by unaffiliated cultivators today. While they knew their masters paled inparison to Elder Jinnan and the others, they were still delighted to be cultivators.


    At least they were in a better position than Li Huafeng. <em>He might have evoked five tolls, but he still had his routes severed by Fang Chen. </em>


    Ye Qinghe felt a sliver of gratitude toward Fang Chen for not getting in his way.


    In total, 476 people had evoked one to three tolls, of which, 76 of them had been taken in by unaffiliated cultivators.


    119 had evoked four to six tolls, and they were split among the major sects.


    Seven people had evoked seven tolls, and they were split between top sects like the South Heaven Sect and the Beast Spirit Valley.


    No one had evoked eight tolls, but there was one person who evoked nine tollsJade Fairy. However, she was taken away by a purple-robed woman who appeared out of nowhere.


    With that, the spirit assessment finally concluded.


    The cultivators took their disciples away with them after thetter had tearful farewells with their family members. The others watched on with wistfulness and envy.


    Xia Yun, Liu Suifeng, Tantai Qingxuan, have you resolved your business here? Elder Jinnan asked with a smile.


    Two people stood behind him. One was Xia Yun, and the other was a young girl who evoked seven tolls too. Coincidentally, that girl was from the Compassion Hall.


    Xia Yun and his two juniors bowed to Elder Jinnan and informed him that they werent done with their business yet. Elder Jinnan acknowledged it with a nod. They chatted for a bit longer before Elder Jinnan left with Xia Yun and the girl.


    Elder Xia Yun, your cultivation talent rose from two tolls to four tolls. You should receive better resources once you return to the sect. Liu Suifeng and Tantai Qingxuan smiled at Xia Yun.


    Xia Yun smiled back. Its the same for you two. You benefited from the Spirit Marrow as well.


    Indeed. Its all thanks to Senior Xia Yun. You can get an additional share of the rewards if we receive any benefits at our destination, Tantai Qingxuan said merrily.


    Ill thank you in advance then. Xia Yun was delighted.


    Speaking of which Liu Suifeng subtly gestured to a person standing not too far away. Senior Xia Yun, can you introduce us to that person? Itll be good to get on closer terms with him. His background is far stronger than our South Heaven Sect. Therell be benefits to befriending him.


    Not far away, Fang Chen was chatting with the Great Xias emperor. The empress and the other concubines stood not too far away.


    Noble Consort Hua was overjoyed to see her son joining the South Heaven Sect, but she felt conflicted as she found that she had to tread even more carefully around Fang Chen now.


    Youre right. Xia Yun nodded before bringing the two of them over.


    The Great Xias emperor noticed Xia Yun walking over and quickly paused the conversation and sped his fist to greet thetter.


    Xia Yun waved his hand with a smile before turning to Fang Chen. Daoist Fang, please pardon me if I offended you in any way before.


    Youre too polite, Fang Chen replied.


    Li Guozhu and the others felt conflicted watching that sight. They felt like Fang Chen had somehow reached a level far beyond them all of a sudden.


    Even Elder Jinnan and the others had greeted him before taking their leave, let alone Xia Yun.


    Daoist Fang, the three of us will be leaving today. We hope to meet you again and discuss our difficulties in cultivation if an opportunity presents itself. Liu Suifeng courteously sped his fist.


    Of course. Im sure therell be an opportunity in the future. Fang Chen nodded.


    Out of the blue, Li Guozhu stepped forward and asked with a sped fist, Imperial Duke Fang, I know my son hasmitted a folly in the past. Could you spare him on my ount and grant him a shot at bing a cultivator?


    The crowd turned to look at Fang Chen.


    Li Huafeng was decently talented. It was indeed a pity that none of the sects dared to take him in due to Fang Chens intervention.


    Fang Chen chuckled. I have never severed his road to immortality. It was just that Li Huafeng refused to believe me. Another chance might surface if he patiently waits.


    Is the sect behind you willing to take in Huafeng? Li Guozhu asked.


    Fang Chen smiled, but he didnt borate on the matter.


    Just then, two figures appeared in front of the empty square. An old man and his grandson were slowly making their way toward the crowd.


    Yan Beihan immediately ordered the imperial guards to step forward and stop him.


    Lord Soldiers, my grandson hasnt undergone the spirit assessment, the old man feebly said.


    The imperial guards frowned. The spirit assessment is over. You should have brought him over earlier. The cultivators have already left with their Spirit Gauging Bells. Give up on it and leave.


    Will you grant me an audience with Imperial Duke Fang? the old man asked.


    This The imperial guards frowned.


    All right, I understand


    The old man despondently shook his head before turning around and limping off with his grandson.


    The imperial guard sighed inmentation too, but all of a sudden, the old man turned around and smiled at him. It was a normal smile, but it sent shivers down his spine.


    You might have a formidable background, but our Blood Spirit Cult isnt a pushover. It has always been our teaching to pay a blood debt with blood. So you may die now.


    The old man flung his sleeves, and a 26 daosoul imprint flying sword harnessing tremendous spirit ki whizzed toward Fang Chen.


    The Blood Spirit Cult observed a strict hierarchy. Those who were higher in the hierarchy held the soulmps of their direct subordinates, so he found out about his subordinates death right away.


    He initially shrugged it off as an ident, but he soon realized that something was amiss when all of the Blood Spirit Cultists stationed in Great Xia were dead.


    He had been observing the situation over thest few days, and Fang Chen looked to be the most suspicious one of all. He suspected that it was the person behind Fang Chen who got rid of Zhou Yizeng and the others.


    He might not have concrete evidence behind his conjecture, but just his suspicion was enough. He would consider this debt settled after killing Fang Chen.


    The terrifying burst of spirit ki horrified Xia Yun and the others. The cultivators who hadnt left the capital quickly walked onto the streets and fearfully looked toward the imperial pce.

 Chapter 151: One Against Two

    Chapter 151: One Against Two


    This tremendous spirit ki A Foundation Establishment cultivator has made a move!


    Isnt the spirit assessment over? Why would a Foundation Establishment cultivator suddenly make a move? Who is he fighting?


    Lets head over to take a look!


    At the imperial pces entrance, the old man walked away right after tossing out his flying sword. He was certain Fang Chen was dead. <em>A mere mortal cant hope to survive my sword. </em>


    But to Xia Yun and the others surprise, another sword flew forth and stopped the old mans assault.


    The Moon Monasterys Abbess Moonchaser? I thought she has already left? Xia Yun was bewildered.


    It was indeed Abbess Moonchaser who stopped the old mans sword. She appeared beside Fang Chen and red at the old man with cold eyes.


    The old man halted his footsteps. He slowly turned around and eyed Abbess Moonchaser with a hint of surprise in his eyes. I thought you have left.


    Why did you attack him? Abbess Moonchaser asked despite already knowing the answer.


    She knew that the old man wouldnt easily reveal his identity as a Blood Spirit Cultist despite having reached Foundation Establishment.


    I have a grudge with that mortal, the old man calmly replied. I advise you not to get involved lest you bring trouble upon your sect.


    Youre awfully arrogant for a mere early Foundation Establishment cultivator! another voice echoed.


    Xia Yun and the others were even more shocked. That voice clearly belonged to Elder Jinnan. <em>He hasnt left yet?</em>


    A sh of green light descended from the sky.


    The old man unhesitatingly grabbed the child beside him and tossed it toward the green light. The green light quivered as it quickly changed its trajectory to avoid the child before it continued rushing at the old man.


    Damn it!


    The old mans face warped in anger. He raised his hands, and the surrounding earth began rising as if it had gained a life of its own, converging into a thick barrier in front of him.


    Boom!


    The green light crashed into the earth barrier and smashed it into pieces.


    However, this bought enough time for the old man to summon his flying sword back. He eyed Elder Jinnan with wary eyes.


    At the same time, the green light flew over to Elder Jinnan and floated around him. The true identity of the green light was a flying sword.


    Everyone present was stunned. <em>Is this the means of a cultivator?</em>


    Be it the flying swords or the earth barrier, the Great Xias emperors and the others had never seen anything like this before.


    Five Elements Art? I can do that too, Elder Jinnan sneered.


    With a raise of his hand, the earth around the old man suddenly converged into a massive python that tightly coiled around the old man, holding him firmly in ce.


    What do you think of my Five Elements Art? Elder Jinnan asked with a smirk.


    The nearby unaffiliated cultivators who rushed over were stunned.


    The Five Elementsprised metal, wood, water, fire, and earth.


    The earth element was the easiest to grasp, so cultivators learning the Five Elements Art usually started from there. However, most Ki Refinement cultivators were only able to knead earth into little y dolls, with some of the more talented ones being able to create wolves and ferocious beasts.


    It was no easy feat to create a massive python of over thirty meters long. It required precise control over the earth element and a huge amount of spirit ki to pull off.


    Its the South Heaven Sects Elder Jinnan!


    I thought he has already left?


    Whos that elder? We should have at least heard of him if hes a Foundation Establishment cultivator


    The world of cultivation is massive; its normal for you to have never seen him before. But I have to say that hes out of his mind to sh with Elder Jinnan, a mid Foundation Establishment cultivator


    There was a massive gap between early and mid Foundation Establishment cultivators. Even in Infernoze, there were only a handful of mid Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    Many tremendously talented cultivators who overcame their bottleneck to reach Foundation Establishment were unable to ovee the hurdle to reach mid Foundation Establishment. This small cultivation stage was enough to block many peoples path.


    These spectators had arrivedte, so they thought the old man was fighting with Elder Jinnan.


    Elder Jinnan, dont waste your breath with him. Just kill him, Abbess Moonchaser said.


    Hahaha! The old man let out vileughter. I have waited for you to leave before making a move because I didnt want to involve you in this matter, but you insist on making an enemy out of me Youre looking for it!


    A red mist started appearing around the old man, and his appearance visibly grew younger when he absorbed the red mist.


    Elder Jinnan sensed that something was amiss, so he quickly ordered the earth python to chomp off the old mans head.


    Boom!


    The earth python exploded into pieces and scattered all over the floor.


    What emerged from the dust was a middle-aged man. His hair was still sparse, but he didnt look as frail as he did before.


    Elder Jinnan was stunned. He sensed an aura on par with him from the person standing before him. <em>Mid Foundation Establishment?!</em>


    Abbess Moonchasers face darkened, as she sensed the same thing.


    I see Elder Jinnan slowly came to understand the situation.


    The other party had previously reached mid Foundation Establishment, just that his cultivation fell to early Foundation Establishment as he neared the end of his lifespan. However, he found a way to extend his longevity, allowing him to return to his prime and recover his cultivation.


    Who are you? Elder Jinnan grimly asked.


    He thought that he had made a worthwhile deal with Fang Chen, but it now looked like he had stepped into a pit instead. He would have to do whatever it took to eliminate the enemy before him now, lest he bring trouble to the South Heaven Sect.


    You dont need to know who I am, the old man said with a smile. You can pose that question to King Yama in theherworld!


    You made a wrong choice attacking Daoist Fang. Hes from a powerful sect, and his master is far stronger than you. Youre naive if you think that you can threaten us. Surrender and perhaps well spare your life otherwise the only fate awaiting you is death! Elder Jinnan bellowed.


    He mentioned Fang Chens background to gauge the old mans reaction, but the result disappointed him. The old man wasnt intimidated by it at all.


    Elder Jinnans heart skipped a beat.


    The old man didnt bother giving him time to carefully think things through. With a wave of his hand, his flying sword whizzed toward Abbess Moonchaser with a streak of light.


    He couldnt maintain his current state for long, and fighting in one against two was simply too disadvantageous for him. He had to first get rid of the early Foundation Establishment cultivator, then he could focus on dealing with Elder Jinnan.


    Abbess Moonchaser swiftly maneuvered her flying sword forth to protect herself.


    However, the oue was different from before. The prowess of the old mans flying sword was much greater now that he had raised his cultivation to mid Foundation Establishment.


    Within a single strike, he smashed a hole right through Abbess Moonchasers flying sword, causing the daosoul imprints on it to fade.


    Elder Jinnan, we need to fight him together! Abbess Moonchaser shouted.


    Elder Jinnan put aside his thoughts. With a flick of his finger, his green sword whizzed forth.


    Surprisingly, the old man was able to hold his ground despite it being a one against two. The surrounding cultivators were taken aback.


    The three of them slowly rose to the sky as they fought.


    Most people saw shes of light; only the cultivators were able to sense the terrifying spirit ki shockwaves that arose from the shes.


    Fang Chen suddenly nced at Xia Yu, who had returned together with Elder Jinnan.


    Xia Yu looked unnerved. He seemed to have thought of something that made hisplexion turn ghastly pale.

 Chapter 152

    Chapter 152


    IMNR 152: Corpse Cultivator


    Fang Chen quietly looked at Xia Yu.


    Xia Yu sensed Fang Chens gaze and hurriedly raised his head, only to see Fang Chen staring at him. He felt a little conscience-stricken.


    The crowd didnt notice Xia Yus anomaly. They were trying their best to look at the sky, curious to know the oue of the battle among the three cultivators.


    Fang Chen retracted his gaze and drew out his soul instead, so that he could spectate and experience the battle among the three cultivators close up.


    The Foundation Establishment Blood Spirit Cultist was formidable; he was able to hold his own despite being outnumbered. His means were hard to counter, and he clearly had morebat experience than Elder Jinnan.


    Even so, he was simultaneously dealing with two Foundation Establishment cultivators, after all.


    Abbess Moonchasers cultivation might be slightly lower than the two, but the flying sword she controlled was, by no means, weak. She wisely chose to avoid frontal confrontations with the Foundation Establishment Blood Spirit Cultists and instead go for the other partys weaknesses.


    Their cooperation gave them a slight upper hand over the Blood Spirit Cultist.


    Abbess Moonchaser, dont hold back anymore. Use your Moon Monasterys Heart Binding Spell. Ill y him! Elder Jinnan ryed a telepathic message to Abbess Moonchaser.


    Abbess Moonchaser looked conflicted. The Heart Binding Spell was the Moon Monasterys strongest mystic art, as well as the one she was the most reluctant to use as it demanded a heavy price.


    Her soul would be permanently damaged, and her cultivation would fall slightly. It might take years for her to make a full recovery.


    I can only use it once. You have to kill him.


    The hesitant Abbess Moonchaser finally made up her mind. She put her hands together, and her face suddenly looked incredibly devout. She began chanting, Perfection lies in the Buddha, such is never heard. The Nine Levels of the Heart Sutra


    The Blood Spirit Cultist widened his eyes in shock. He realized that the dharmic chant was shaking his soul as if an inner demon, inducing a sliver of fatigue in him. He could hardly stop his eyes from closing.


    Its about time. Fang Chen heaved a sigh of relief.


    With Abbess Moonchasers means holding down the Blood Spirit Cultist, Elder Jinnan should be able to y thetter with ease.


    Go! Elder Jinnan roared.


    His green sword whizzed as a sh of light, aiming at the middle of the Blood Spirit Cultists forehead.


    The head was a weakness for cultivators too. Even a Foundation Establishment cultivator would die when pierced in the head. Only a small number of cultivators in possession of certain secret arts could transfer the damage away.


    Pu!


    The green whiz of light pierced right through the Blood Spirit Cultists head, leaving behind a trail of blood.


    Its done! Elder Jinnan breathed a sigh of relief.


    This had been a difficult enemy for him.


    Even though the old man was on the verge of dyinghe was only able to temporarily return to his prime by consuming some kind of strengthening pillhis means were not to be made light of. He could counterattack even when dealing with two Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    There was no doubt he would have been even more terrifying if he had been in his prime.


    It was fortunate that Abbess Moonchaser was willing to use her ace, which created the room required for him to take down the Blood Spirit Cultist.


    <em>A Foundation Establishment cultivator like him should have quite the fortune. At least therell be some rewards for my efforts here, </em>Elder Jinnan thought with a smile.


    Abbess Moonchaser breathed a sigh of relief too. <em>It was a close one, but luckily we took down the Blood Spirit Cultist.</em>


    Fang Chen, Abbess Moonchaser, and Elder Jinnan thought that the Blood Spirit Cultist was dead, but they quickly noticed that something was amiss. The old man was still floating in the air, not falling in the least.


    <em>Something is off! A dead cultivator should have been no different from a mortal; how could a corpse float in mid-air on its own?</em>


    All of a sudden, the Blood Spirit Cultist opened his eyes and looked at Elder Jinnan and Abbess Moonchaser with a mocking smile. Did you think Id die that easily?


    Elder Jinnan and Abbess Moonchaser took a sharp inhtion of breath. <em>Hes still alive despite having taken a sword through his head?</em>


    The Blood Spirit Cultist smiled. Two fangs appeared in his mouth, and his spirit ki began to dissipate. In its ce surged greenish-ck corpse ki!


    Elder Jinnan and Abbess Moonchasers faces warped in shock.


    A corpse cultivator? Elder Jinnan blurted out. Y-you turned yourself into a zombie!


    The weakness of a zombie is its corpse core. It serves to circte power through the corpse. Hell continue moving unless we destroy it, Abbess Moonchaser grimly murmured.


    She had already stopped her Heart Binding Spell. She could only channel it for a short while due to the limitations of her cultivation, or else she would risk severe damage to her soul.


    <em>If I knew that the Blood Spirit Cultist was so fanatic as to turn his own body into a zombie, Id have never struck that deal with Fang Chen! </em>


    Corpse cultivators were terrifying beings to deal with in the world of cultivation. Those who became zombies enjoyed longer lifespans than their peers, and this advantage became more significant the higher ones cultivation was.


    On top of that, corpse ki was troublesome to deal with. It had the power to corrode any artifacts it came into contact with, thus weakening its prowess.


    Due to that, cultivators were usually reluctant to deal with corpse cultivators. All it took was a moment of carelessness, and their artifacts would be crippled.


    Its toote for regret. I was reluctant to reveal myself as Id need a huge amount of blood essence to replenish my depletion, the Blood Spirit Cultist coldly said. But you forced my hand. Be prepared to face the brunt of your folly then!


    Abbess Moonchaser, well have to put our lives on the line to take him down, Elder Jinnan grimly said.


    It was toote to retreat now. They had to give it their all, or else it would spell their end.


    Abbess Moonchaser nodded in agreement.


    The three of them began crossing blows once more, but this time, the Blood Spirit Cultist clearly wielded the upper hand. Slowly, Elder Jinnan and Abbess Moonchasers artifacts were being enveloped by ayer of greenish-ck corpse ki. That diminished the prowess of their artifacts.


    On top of that, the Blood Spirit Cultist didnt hesitate to receive Elder Jinnan and Abbess Moonchasers attacks with his body. It looked like the two were inflicting grievous injuries on him, but in truth, it didnt hurt his foundation at all.


    After trading a few more blows, Elder Jinnan and Abbess Moonchaser were struck squarely by the Blood Spirit Cultists palm. That corroded their spirit ki, and corpse ki began to poison their bodies.


    Hahaha! The Blood Spirit Cultist raised his head andughed heartily, as tremendous corpse ki flowed out and covered the sky,


    In contrast, Elder Jinnan and Abbess Moonchaser were in terrible shapes.


    It looks like itll be the end of us today Elder Jinnan bitterly said.


    Young master Fang, when else are you going to make your move? Abbess Moonchaser suddenly roared.


    All of a sudden, Fang Chen tossed out all of his Purple Lightning Talismans as if they were merely scrap paper.


    Li Daoye and Abbess Clearlotus did the same too.


    So did Huang Sihai and the others, who had been lying nearby in ambush.


    Massive lightning bolts weaved into a deadly that crackled toward the Blood Spirit Cultist. More than two hundred mid-grade Purple Lightning talismans were consumed in an instant!

 Chapter 153: Suppression!

    Chapter 153: Suppression!


    This was not the first time the Great Xias emperor and the officials of the imperial court had seen such a sight, but they were still surprised to learn that Fang Chen was able to intervene in a fight of such a caliber.


    Purple Lightning Talismans?! The Blood Spirit Cultist was both furious and frightened.


    Corpse cultivators didnt have many weaknesses, but one of the things that they feared the most was the lightning tribtion, for it lightning ki harnessed the most intense yang energy in the world!


    The Purple Lightning Talismans paled inparison to the lightning tribtions, but the source of their powers were simr, so they were extremely destructive to corpse cultivators too!


    Boom!


    Hundreds of Purple Lightning Talismans instantaneously engulfed the Foundation Establishment Blood Spirit Cultist. A scream of agony seemed to echo amidst the deafening crackle.


    Taken aback, Elder Jinnan hurriedly turned to Fang Chen. <em>Thats hundreds of Purple Lightning Talismans?! How many ki stones is that worth? </em>It was such a huge sum that he struggled to make the calctions on the spot.


    The smoke scattered.


    The Blood Spirit Cultist was still barely maintaining his footing in the sky, but there were many charredcerations crackling with lightning all over his body. The corpse ki he was emanating had been dissipated by the lightning too, causing his movements to be a little stiff.


    Elder Jinnan, Abbess Moonchaser, attack his lower jaw! Fang Chen shouted.


    The two of them were stunned, but they still reflexively channeled their flying swords to attack the Blood Spirit Cultists lower jaw.


    Pu!


    Two swords simultaneously pierced through the Blood Spirit Cultists lower jaw, and thetter began trembling intensely. Elder Jinnan and Abbess Moonchaser swiftly backed three hundred meters away and eyed the Blood Spirit Cultist with an uncertain gaze.


    Secondster, the Blood Spirit Cultist suddenly fell silent. He stiffly turned his head down to look at Fang Chen. How did you know where my corpse core is


    <em>Corpse core?! Could it be</em>


    Elder Jinnan and Abbess Moonchaser exchanged shocked looks. <em>Did our earlier attack destroy his corpse core? But how did Fang Chen know where the corpse core is?</em>


    It was a guess. Fang Chen smiled.


    Astonishment flickered across the Blood Spirit Cultists eyes. His body began to disintegrate, looking like a sculpture ravaged by furious winds. It was a rather shocking sight.


    It started from his legs, followed by his abdomen, arms, and when it finally reached his head, he suddenly yelled out a miserable curse out of despair, Youll join me soon! Long live Blood Spirit! I have no regrets!


    His head dissipated, but his furious howl echoed in the crowds ears.


    Long live Blood Spirit?


    What does that mean?


    Many of the unaffiliated cultivators were perplexed, though their eyes were opened by the rare sight of a corpse cultivator, which might not even appear once per century. What was even rarer was for the corpse cultivator to be suppressed and killed.


    The crowd quickly forgot about the Blood Spirit Cultists curse. They looked at Fang Chen with a mix of curiosity, fear, and grimness.


    Ye Qinghe and Tao Yu stood behind their respective masters as they btedly realized that Fang Chen had never recovered his martial cultivation. In truth, he was a cultivator!


    The Great Xias emperor saw through that too. The officials of the imperial court werent fools either. They thought that everything Fang Chen previously pulled off was thanks to Li Daoyes help, but the earlier situation proved that Fang Chen himself was a cultivator too!


    Thinking back, they had already known from the phenomenon during Fang Chens spirit assessment that he had already be the disciple of a powerful cultivator; it shouldnt havee as a surprise that he himself was a cultivator too.


    He has already embarked on the path of a cultivator Xia Yun stared at Fang Chen in a daze.


    Behind him, Liu Suifeng and Tantai Qingxuan were utterly bbergasted too.


    Long live Blood Spirit Elder Jinnan slowly turned to Abbess Moonchaser and asked, Hes a Blood Spirit Cultist. You knew that from the start?


    I wasnt sure before, but its certain now. Abbess Moonchaser nodded.


    Elder Jinnans lips quivered, and his face turned pale. He red at Abbess Moonchaser with furious eyes. Do you know the danger you have put our South Heaven Sect in?


    Wellpensate you with plenty of Purple Lightning Talismans. Ill discuss this matter with Fang Chen on your behalf. Besides, the Blood Spirit Cultist has been killed. No one will know its our doing. Abbess Moonchaser smiled. The world of cultivation is huge, and the Blood Spirit Cult is spread across many regions. No one will pay attention to the death of a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Elder Jinnan was rendered speechless.


    <em>Whats happened has happened. Theres no point arguing with Abbess Moonchaser over this matter. All I can do now is to recoup my losses. Its fortunate that ordinary unaffiliated cultivators know little about the Blood Spirit Cult, so this matter might not spread as widely. </em>


    With such a thought in mind, Elder Jinnan turned to Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen walked up to the dazed child, squatted down, and asked, Your family members are dead. Do you have rtives?


    Two streams of tears suddenly flowed from the dazed childs eyes. He pointed to his throat and made an ah ah sound.


    Young master, his voice box has been crushed. Hes unable to speak, Huang Sihai ryed with a suppressed voice.


    Fang Chen ced his hand on the childs shoulder and infused spirit ki into his body.


    A momentter, he gently said, I cant see. You cant speak. I guess this, in a way, is fate too. Remember, the ones who killed your family members is the Blood Spirit Cult. If you do possess talent for cultivation, Ill bestow you with an opportunity.


    He turned to Elder Jinnan and said, Elder Jinnan, Id like to borrow your Spirit Gauging Bell.


    All right. Elder Jinnan nodded.


    With a wave of his hand, the Spirit Gauging Bell flew out and plopped before Fang Chen.


    Go ahead. Fang Chen patted the childs shoulder.


    The child had seen the spirit assessment over thest few days, so he knew what he had to do. He wiped away his tears and marched to the Spirit Gauging Bell with eyes filled with hatred.


    <em>Dong!</em>


    <em>Dong!</em>


    <em>Dong!</em>


    The child could only evoke three tolls. His cultivation talent was inferior, on the same level as Tao Yu and the others. He could only be taken in by an unaffiliated cultivator at most, and it was unlikely for him to achieve anything significant in the future.


    The child refused to give up. He continued striking the Spirit Gauging Bell until his fist became a mishmash of blood and flesh, but he still didnt stop till Fang Chen gently grabbed his fists.


    Elder Jinnan, will you ept him? Fang Chen asked,


    His talent Elder Jinnan was put in a spot.


    The South Heaven Sect didnt take in individuals with inferior cultivation talent, as they thought that devoting cultivation resources toward someone unlikely to achieve anything significant was a waste. The only exceptions were those who contributed greatly to the sect, such as Xia Yun.


    Ill owe you a favor, Fang Chen said.


    All right. Ill take him in. Elder Jinnan took the offer.


    He walked over to the childs side and channeled a surge of spirit ki into the childs body. Under the spirit kis nourishment, the childs bloodied fist swiftly recovered.


    Elder Jinnan had witnessed Fang Chens means. The sheer amount of Purple Lightning Talismans that Fang Chen had was enough to prove just how highly his master regarded him. He saw this as a worthwhile trade.


    Many people revealed envious looks.


    Ye Qinghe pouted in dissatisfaction. He couldnt believe that the South Heaven Sect took in someone with inferior cultivation talent for Fang Chens favor, whereas he could only be the disciple of an unaffiliated cultivator.


    However, his indignation vanished when he thought about Li Huafeng.

 Chapter 154: The Mastermind

    Chapter 154: The Mastermind


    In the Pce of Great Peace, most of the officials of the imperial court had been dismissed, except for Li Guozhu, Jiang Yushu, Ye Dongming, Tao Mingsheng, the Fifth King, and a few other major officials of Great Xia.


    All of them looked at Fang Chen with grim faces.


    Meanwhile, Fang Chen was informing Elder Jinnan about the atrocities the Blood Spirit Cult hadmitted in the capital over thest few years.


    Elder Jinnans face turned grim. Shock flickered across the eyes of the Great Xias emperor.


    Xia Yun turned livid, as his forehead and back were slicked with cold sweat. He would have never thought that such a vile cult had set its eyes on Great Xia.


    Imperial Duke Fang, youre saying that Master Xu Hui is a Blood Spirit Cultist, and he made use of the orphans and vulnerable in the Compassion Halls to forge Blood Pills? Jiang Yushu slowly spoke up to rify the matter.


    Fang Chen nodded.


    The crowd finally understood why Fang Chen raided the Compassion Hall and killed Xu Hui all of a sudden. Back then, they thought that Xu Hui was just a martial artist who practiced demonic arts, but who could have thought that he was actually a cultivator?


    Not to mention a Blood Spirit Cultist who had infiltrated their midst!


    Is the recent massacre of the southern regions Heavensword Mountain Vi the doing of the Blood Spirit Cultists too? the Fifth King asked.


    Thats right. Fang Chen nodded.


    Is Qin Dong a Blood Spirit Cultist too? Tao Mingsheng asked with a pale face.


    No, hes a mortal. However, he colluded with them because he wanted to exploit their powers for his own benefit, Fang Chen replied.


    The crowd first heaved a sigh of relief before tensing up once more. <em>Wait, there are people in the capital who colluded with the Blood Spirit Cult? Does that mean that there are more people rted to the Blood Spirit Cult among us?</em>


    Daoist Fang, Elder Jinnan said with a heavy tone, are you certain that you have eliminated all of the Blood Spirit Cultists in Great Xia?


    That was the most important matter at hand.


    Yes, I have eliminated all of them. Fang Chen nodded.


    Thats a relief Elder Jinnan exhaled deeply. His eyes slowly swept across the people gathered in this room as he said, So, this matter will be settled once we root out the mortals colluding with the Blood Spirit Cult.


    The battle at the Three Realms Mountain five years ago the Great Xias emperor hesitantly spoke up. Was the Blood Spirit Cult involved in it? They needed sacrifices to forge their Blood Spirit Divine Pill, so the hundreds of thousands of casualties back then


    Fang Chen nodded. The Blood Spirit Cultist exploited that fight to forge six Blood Spirit Divine Pills. I havent be a cultivator back then, so I didnt notice a thing.


    What a bloodypetent emperor you are! Xia Yun suddenly roared at the Great Xias emperor. A cultivator has been murdering your people, and you didnt sense a thing at all?!


    Old Ancestor, I The Great Xias emperor couldnt answer those words.


    Hes not to be med. Hes a mortal; how could he sense a cultivators means? The Blood Spirit Cult would have remained unnoticed to this day if not for Daoist Fang being taken in by a powerful cultivator, Elder Jinnan calmly pointed out.


    Imperial Duke Fang, do you have a lead? Who are the depraved ones in the capital who stooped so low as to collude with the vile Blood Spirit Cultists? the Great Xias emperor asked.


    Behind Elder Jinnan, Xia Yu tried his best to remain calm as he followed the crowd and looked at Fang Chen with curious eyes, but deep down, he fervently prayed for Fang Chen not to look at him.


    The exmander of the Valiant Defenders, Xiao Shence, was one of them, Fang Chen said.


    The crowd gasped as they exchanged gazes. To think that the aide of the Great Xias emperor, Xiao Shence, was colluding with the Blood Spirit Cult!


    <em>This</em> The Great Xias emperor turned pale. He suddenly looked deted as if someone had sapped his energy, and he feebly asked, Imperial Duke Fang, do you have evidence?


    Bring it up, Fang Chen ordered.


    Huang Sihai nodded before walking out of the Pce of Great Peace. Momentster, he, Niu Jue, and a few other Valiant Defenders returned with Xiao Shence in their custody.


    Xiao Shences face was pale, and he struggled to even walk. Those with sharp eyes could tell that his martial cultivation had been crippled!


    Young master, Xiao Shence was carrying this bottle of pills, Huang Sihai reported as he passed a porcin bottle over to Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen uncorked it and took a sniff before tossing it over to Elder Jinnan.


    Elder Jinnan first examined the bottle before taking a sniff, and his face swiftly turned grim. He proceeded to toss the porcin bottle to Abbess Moonchaser.


    Secondster, Abbess Moonchaser revealed her conclusion, Its a bottle of Blood Pills, medicine concocted out of blood essence. Its a vile concoction. It could raise a persons martial cultivation, but itll also gradually erode their rationality and drive them berserk.


    Xiao Shence, you have disappointed me! The Great Xias emperor red at Xiao Shence.


    Your Majesty, I was merely looking for greater power to protect the country. I didnt do anything wrong! Xiao Shence suddenly burst intoughter. He suddenly searched the room before finallyying his gaze on Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen, I dont understand why I always lose to you. From a young age, your talent for martial cultivation far surpasses everyone else. Even when your martial cultivation was crippled at the Three Realms Mountain, you still found a way to be a cultivator. Why does heaven favor you so much?!


    Where is Enforcement Envoy Liu? Fang Chen asked.


    Hahaha! Xiao Shence burst into frenziedughter. I thought you were a prophet? Why dont you root him out yourself?


    It was only then that the crowd understood that Xiao Shence was the one who helped Enforcement Envoy Liu, the person behind the Compassion Halls case, escape.


    Li Guozhu and the others berated Xiao Shence for his depraved ways.


    Fang Chen chuckled. Hes an insignificant figure. I doubt he even knows the existence of the Blood Spirit Cult. Finding him isnt important to me. In fact, Id say that a meremander of the Valiant Defenders like you isnt qualified to directlye into contact with the cultivators of the Blood Spirit Cult. I know just how proud cultivators can be.


    Elder Jinnan had weird expressions on their faces when they heard those words.


    You received these Blood Pills from the person behind you, right? Fang Chen asked.


    <em>The person behind Xiao Shence?! </em>The faces of the crowd tensed up.


    Xiao Shences eyes flickered. He clenched his jaws and said, Im the only one whom the Blood Spirit Cult hase into contact with. Fang Chen, dont even think about using this chance to eliminate your rivals in the imperial court!


    Imperial Duke Fang is a cultivator! He need not stoop so low to meddle in the imperial court! Tao Mingsheng roared. Confess who the person behind you is, or else even slicing you into a thousand pieces wont be enough to cate our anger!


    Lord Tao, I remember you used to hate Fang Chen a lot. Why are you suddenly changing your tune? Xiao Shence sneered.


    Tao Mingsheng was choked by those words. Many emotions flickered across his face, and in the end, he grimly replied, I admit that I have my conflicts with Imperial Duke Fang, but those are minor matters. Someone dares to take the lives of our people lightly. That is something I will not stand for. Dont try to change the topic here!


    Fang Chen, you said you want to know whos behind me? Xiao Shenceughed. Ill tell you right now. Minister of Rites Tao Mingsheng, Minister of Military Personnel Ye Dongming, Minister of Justice Jiang Yushu Ah, theres also the Fifth King and Li Guozhu. These are the people behind me!


    A huge uproar broke out.


    The Fifth King bellowed, A dog on the verge of death still wants to bite us?


    The person behind you is Xia Yu, right? Fang Chen calmly pointed out.


    The Pce of Great Peace descended into silence. Disbelief shed across Xiao Shences eyes, and his eyes began to waver.


    Xia Yu trembled. He immediately raised his finger at Fang Chen and bellowed, Dont you malign me!

 Chapter 155: Earth Corpse Gu Pill

    Chapter 155: Earth Corpse Gu Pill


    Elder Jinnan didnt expect this matter to implicate Xia Yu. Thetter was an outstanding bud who had evoked seven tolls from the Spirit Gauging Bell! He was going to be one of the pirs of the South Heaven Sect!


    Daoist Fang, do you have evidence regarding that? Elder Jinnan grimly asked.


    He couldnt imagine what kind of cmity would befall the South Heaven Sect if he brought someone who had once colluded with the Blood Spirit Cult back. <em>I have to tread carefully here!</em>


    Elder Jinnan, hes maligning me! We have been on bad terms from a young age because he envies me! Right, he envies me! He wants to stifle me like what he did to Li Huafeng! Xia Yu frantically eximed.


    Elder Jinnan nced at Xia Yu. You stay quiet first.


    Xia Yu immediately shut his mouth, but he red at Fang Chen with fiery eyes.


    The Great Xias emperor staggered. A hint of blood appeared at the corner of his lips.


    Li Guozhu and the others noticed his abnormal condition and worriedly advised, Your Majesty, you should take a rest!


    The Great Xias emperor waved his hand. He looked at Fang Chen with a pale face and asked, Imperial Duke Fang, youre saying that my son, Xia Yu, and Xiao Shence colluded with the Blood Spirit Cult?


    At this point, his face suddenly became agitated. I am your uncle! Tell me the truth! Is Xia Yu really involved in this matter?!


    <em>Uncle? </em>Elder Jinnan and Abbess Moonchaser exchanged looks. They didnt expect there to be such a rtionship between Fang Chen and the Great Xias emperor.


    This matter has nothing to do with the crown prince! Xiao Shence red at Fang Chen. Dont you try to drag innocent people down!


    Ironically, his frantic response only made the truth evident to the crowd.


    Your Highness, there are still a few Blood Pills in your manor that you failed to consume or destroy in time You must have been reluctant to destroy it since they are from a cultivator, Fang Chen remarked with a smile.


    Xia Yus face darkened. He did have a few Blood Pills stashed away, and he dared not carry them in the presence of Elder Jinnan and the other cultivators. He would have never imagined that Fang Chen would be so bold as to raid his Crown Prince Manor and dig up the Blood Pills.


    Huang Sihai took out a few porcin bottles and passed them to Elder Jinnan and Abbess Moonchaser for inspection. The two of them immediately sensed the blood essence gathered inside those pills.


    Normal cultivators wouldnt concoct such pills. Not only did it not bring them any benefit, but it also raised the risks of them going berserk.


    Other than that, some of the Blood Spirit Cultists have spent some time in the Crown Prince Manor too. This can be easily unearthed by interrogating the Crown Prince Manors maids and eunuchs, Fang Chen said. Xia Yu, are you still going to insist on your innocence?


    Youre maligning me! Xia Yu clenched his jaws, as beads of sweat formed on his forehead.


    Elder Jinnan sighed. I have a pill that I acquired from a malevolent cultivator I killed a while back. Its the Earth Corpse Gu Pill.


    Earth Corpse Gu Pill? Abbess Moonchaser frowned. Such a pill has never appeared in Infernoze before


    Master, whats that? Abbess Clearlotus was curious.


    Li Daoye grimly alternated his gaze between Elder Jinnan and Xia Yu. He seemed to have heard about the Earth Corpse Gu Pill before.


    The Earth Corpse Gu Pill is a tool used by malevolent cultivators to interrogate others. Normal cultivators can hardly withstand it. If a mortal consumes it, theyll honestly answer any question. However, consuming this pill will erode a persons foundation and hinder their cultivation, Abbess Moonchaser replied.


    Xia Yu sweated even more profusely upon hearing that. He looked at Elder Jinnan in fright.


    You have a cultivation talent of seven tolls. Your aptitude will slide to around five or six tolls after consuming this pill, Elder Jinnan said. However, this will prove your innocence. If you are innocent, Ill still take you to the South Heaven Sect even if your cultivation talent slides.


    <em>Are these cultivator means? </em>Li Guozhu and the others were intrigued. Such a pill sounded utterly mystical to them.


    Choose. Will you eat it or not? Elder Jinnan calmly asked.


    Xia Yus body stiffened up. He stared at the pill on Elder Jinnans palm with frightful eyes, and secondster, he suddenlyughed bitterly. My cultivation talent will be crippled if I eat that pill. Whats the use of proving my innocence then?


    I wont bring you to the South Heaven Sect if you refuse to take the pill. Your cultivation talent will be futile if you dont have anyone to guide you. Its a small price to pay, Elder Jinnan said.


    I shant go then. Xia Yu gritted his teeth. The South Heaven Sect might be unwilling to take me in, but I believe that there are other ces that will take me in. I have never colluded with the Blood Spirit Cultist, and I see no reason to prove myself. I refuse to eat that pill!


    Elder Jinnans face darkened. You dont have a choice!


    He flicked his hand, and the pill flew right into Xia Yus mouth. Thetter stiffened up before his expression suddenly turned dazed.


    Have you ever colluded with the Blood Spirit Cult? Elder Jinnan coldly asked.


    He actually already had an answer in his mind.


    I have colluded with the Blood Spirit Cult. Xia Yu nodded.


    The Great Xias emperor slumped on his throne.


    Xia Yuns face turned iparably livid. He would have never thought that one of his descendants would actually foolishly bring harm upon their people.


    Xiao Shences face twisted in despair. He weakly fell to his knees.


    Li Guozhu and the others shook their heads. He had never thought that the Great Xias crown prince would do something like that, viewing their people as mere ants!


    Hmph! Elder Jinnan sneered. Did you know they were Blood Spirit Cultists? Did you know their goal? What did you intend to achieve by colluding with them?


    Xia Yu dazedly replied, I initially didnt know who they were. I only knew they were cultivators wielding extraordinary means. Later, they told me they wanted to use Great Xia as a cauldron to concoct a batch of Blood Spirit Divine Pills, and they wanted me to cooperate with them.


    I spent days considering their offer, and I eventually epted it as they promised to give me what I wanted. I wanted to make Great Xia more prosperous. I wanted to raise it to grade-8 or even grade-7. Its worthwhile to sacrifice some civilians in exchange for that.


    The crowd frowned.


    These should be Xia Yus earnest thoughts, given that he had swallowed the Earth Corpse Gu Pill. There was nothing wrong with wanting to prop Great Xia up and be a great emperor that would go down in history.


    However, he should have never used his people as bargaining chips!


    How many people know about this? Fang Chen asked.


    Xia Yu began reciting a couple of names, Ex-Valiant Defenders Commander Xiao Shence, Enforcement Envoy Liu, Vice Minister of Rites Qin Dong


    There were eighteen names in total, and they took important posts in the imperial court. They might not have reached the level of a minister, but their responsibilities were so important that they could easily raise a storm in Great Xia if they wanted to.


    Tao Mingsheng and the others gasped in shock. They couldnt believe that so many of their colleagues were colluding with the Blood Spirit Cult!


    Tao Yu, Ye Qinghe, and Li Huafengare the three of them aware of this? Fang Chen asked.


    They dont know. Xia Yu shook his head.


    Tao Mingsheng breathed a long sigh of relief. He knew his son well. Tao Yu would have distanced himself from the crown prince if he knew about this matter, perhaps even insisting on reporting this matter upward despite the risks.


    Old Huang, capture everyone on the name list. Dont let anyone escape, Fang Chen instructed.


    Yes, young master! Huang Sihai nodded.

 Chapter 156: A Dignified Departure

    Chapter 156: A Dignified Departure


    The capital was put on lockdown, while Old Huang quickly apprehended the officials Xia Yu had named out.


    Some of them tried to hide. Some of them were anxiously waiting for further news. Either way, no one managed to escape.


    In less than an hours time, all of them were dragged to the Pce of Great Peace. Their faces turned pale when they saw the people gathered in the room. Some even peed their pants.


    Where did Enforcement Envoy Liu escape to? Fang Chen asked.


    Xia Yu dazedly replied, Hes already dead.


    The crowd exchanged looks. This oue was not beyond their expectations, as a dead man told no secrets.


    Daoist Fang, we cant spare any of them. Elder Jinnan eyed Xiao Shence and the others.


    Lets kill them on the spot. Fang Chen nodded.


    Old Huang raised his saber and executed these officials one after another within a matter of seconds. Xiao Shences eyes were calm in his final moments. He didnt curse or struggle, as if he had resigned himself to his fate.


    What a pity. Thats a cultivation talent of seven tolls. Elder Jinnan looked at Xia Yu before slowly raising his palm.


    The Great Xias emperor couldnt bring himself to watch his sons death, so he closed his eyes. Xia Yun harbored no feeling for Xia Yu, but he was utterly disappointed by thetters actions.


    Hahaha! Xia Yu suddenly burst intoughter. Saliva flowed from the edges of his lips, and he looked as if he had lost his mind.


    Hm? Elder Jinnan halted his movement.


    The crowd frowned. <em>Did that pill erode Xia Yus sanity and turn him into a fool?</em>


    Elder Jinnan, can we spare his life if he has truly lost his sanity? Xia Yun asked.


    Before Elder Jinnan could reply, Abbess Moonchaser walked forward and took a closer look at Xia Yu. A momentter, she shook her head and said, I cant tell if hes faking it or not.


    The Earth Corpse Gu Pill can indeed erode a persons sanity. He has never cultivated before, so its possible that hes unable to withstand the pills potency, Elder Jinnan murmured.


    Li Guozhu and the others eyes lit up with hope. No matter what, Xia Yu was still their Great Xias crown prince. They were inclined to spare Xia Yu if he had truly lost his mind, especially since he wouldnt be able to do harm anymore.


    Fang Chen walked up to Xia Yu and said, You have sinned too deeply. I have no reason to spare you whether you have truly lost your mind or not. Rather, itd be a humiliation to keep you alive when you have already turned into a fool.


    Hehehe Xia Yu smiled foolishly back.


    He must have lost his mind, Elder Jinnan remarked. I dont sense any emotion from him.


    Abbess Moonchaser nodded.


    It was no easy feat to feign madness in front of two Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    It looks like its real. Fang Chen nodded.


    He raised his hand, lightly ced his finger on Xia Yus forehead, and infused a surge of spirit ki into thetters head. The next moment, Xia Yus brain was crushed into paste.


    There was still a silly smile on his face, but his body slowly stiffened as he breathed hisst.


    Li Guozhu and the others were stunned. <em>Fang Chen killed Xia Yu?!</em>


    Hes our Great Xias crown prince, after all. Let him go off with dignity, Fang Chen said.


    No one said a word. Elder Jinnan and Abbess Moonchaser refrained from saying a word either. Xia Yu did deserve to die for colluding with the Blood Spirit Cult.


    Old Huang, clear the corpses, Fang Chen ordered.


    Huang Sihai quickly dragged Xia Yu and the others corpses out of the Pce of Great Peace.


    The Great Xias emperor looked as if he had aged a few years in an instant. He first looked at Fang Chen, followed by Xia Yun and the others, and in the end, he heaved a soft sigh and said, Im not suited to be Great Xias emperor. Ill announce my abdication through an edict today. You may pick a suitable sessor from my remaining sons.


    Li Guozhu and the others took a sharp inhtion of air.


    Before they could try to stop him, Xia Yun nodded and said, Yes, youre not suited for this position. You didnt notice a thing when such chaos was happening right beneath your eyelids.


    With Xia Yun saying so, Li Guozhu and the others could only hold their tongues. They hadnt expected the matter today to blow so big as to result in their emperors abdication.


    Daoist Fang, shall we head to your manor? Elder Jinnan asked, disying zero interest in Great Xias politics.


    Of course. Fang Chen nodded with a smile.


    The threat concerning the Blood Spirit Cult had concluded for now, allowing Fang Chen to rest at ease.


    Upon returning to the Fang Manor, Fang Chen took out 200 low-grade Purple Lightning Talismans and gave them to Elder Jinnan. These talismans were made out of normal materials; it didnt cost him anything except for his time and effort, so he didnt mind giving them away.


    To Elder Jinnan, these 200 Purple Lightning Talismans proved that Fang Chen had a formidable background. At the very least, there was not a single sect in Infernoze with the means to take out 200 Purple Lightning Talismans like that.


    I shant stand on ceremony. Elder Jinnan stowed the Purple Lightning Talismans into his storage ring. He then took out another storage ring and looked at Fang Chen and Abbess Moonchaser. This was left by that corpse cultivator. Shall we split the items inside equally among us?


    We should. Abbess Moonchaser nodded.


    The three of them assimted the storage ring and took the items inside out to do a quick stock take. Inside the storage ring were 400 low-grade ki stones, a mid Yellow-tier flying sword with 26 daosoul imprints, and plenty of Blood Pills.


    400 low-grade ki stoneshe must have robbed a lot of people, Elder Jinnan sneered. He was surprised by how wealthy the Foundation Establishment Blood Spirit Cultist was.


    It wont be easy for us to divide this among ourselves. The flying sword is worth at least 1000 low-grade ki stones, and these Blood Pills are useless to us Abbess Moonchaser murmured.


    I have taken advantage of Daoist Fang by taking 200 Purple Lightning Talismans from him. While the flying sword is formidable, it has been poisoned by corpse ki, such that it would have to be cleansed for years before it can be used. Itd be worth at most 700 to 800 low-grade ki stones in the market.


    How about this? Ill throw in 400 low-grade ki stones and take the flying sword. I dont need the Blood Pill and the storage ring, Elder Jinnan said.


    All right. Abbess Moonchaser epted the offer without much hesitation.


    Fang Chen took 400 low-grade ki stones and the storage ring, whereas Abbess Moonchaser took the Blood Pills and another 400 low-grade ki stones.


    Daoist Fang, do drop by our South Heaven Sect if you have time, Elder Jinnan said.


    After trading some pleasantries, he left the Fang Manor with his newly-epted disciples.


    Daoist Fang, this Spirit Gauging Bell isnt of high quality, and it has sustained considerable damage too. Ill gift it to you.


    Abbess Moonchaser waited for Elder Jinnan to leave before taking out a Spirit Gauging Bell. It was only three meters tall, and it was covered with cracks. The daosoul imprints on it were not stable either.


    It might be a trashy Spirit Gauging Bell, but it was still a rare artifact considering how not a single cultivator in Infernoze was capable of forging it. Abbess Moonchaser was being very generous by gifting it to him.


    You have my gratitude. Fang Chen nodded with a smile.


    He assimted the Spirit Gauging Bell on the spot, which allowed him to freely control its size. He contracted it until it was around the size of his palm before storing it in his storage ring.


    Abbess Moonchaser chuckled. She nced at Abbess Clearlotus.


    Fang Chen knew what she meant, so he said with a smile, Ill impart the Purple Lightning Talismans heritage to Abbess Clearlotus over the next few days.


    Ill be counting on you then, Daoist Fang. Abbess Moonchaser smiled.

 Chapter 157: Be Careful of His Majesty

    Chapter 157: Be Careful of His Majesty


    Dayster, Abbess Clearlotus fully grasped the Purple Lightning Talismans heritage, and Abbess Moonchaser took her back to the Moon Monastery.


    Fang Qingyao made sure to remind Fang Chen to take care of the orphans and the vulnerable living in the Compassion Halls before leaving with Abbess Moonchaser. She already saw them as her family after spending some time with them.


    Only a few unaffiliated cultivators continued to linger in Great Xia.


    Young master Fang, now that we have resolved the threat of the Blood Spirit Cult, Im allowed to leave now, right? Li Daoye looked incredibly relieved.


    Where do you intend to head next? Fang Chen asked.


    The world is huge. Ill head wherever my heart leads me. I dont n on returning to the Eight Trigrams Sect any time soon lest my father force me to marry into some n, Li Daoye replied.


    Feel free to return to Great Xia to take a look. Fang Chen nodded. Ill escort you.


    While the two of them were making their way out of the Fang Manor, they bumped into Xia Yun, Liu Suifeng, and Tantai Qingxuan.


    Do the three of you need something from me? Fang Chen smiled.


    The three of them sped their fists and greeted Fang Chen.


    Xia Yun first nced at Li Daoye before speaking with a suppressed voice, Daoist Fang, to be honest with you, the three of us traveled here for a dpidated blessednd. By any chance, are the two of you interested in it?


    Dpidated blessednd?! Li Daoyes eyes lit up as he vehemently nodded. Yes, yes! I am <em>very</em> interested in it.


    It was a pity that he was not the one whom the three of them wanted to invite, so they pretended not to hear him and instead looked at Fang Chen.


    Dpidated blessednd? Fang Chens eyebrows shot up. What kind of blessednd is it, and whats in it?


    Xia Yun pondered about it before replying, We bought a tattered map from a market a while back. The cultivator who sold us the map said that it indicates a blessednd left behind by a cultivator, just that the map is too tattered for them to decipher, so they decided to sell it instead. The map was only worth a couple of low-grade ki stones, so the three of us bought it.


    It was at this point that Xia Yun couldnt suppress his smile anymore. I took a look at the map and knew right away that its in Chillwater. The terrains indicated on it are close to Great Xia.


    Its thanks to Senior Xia that we were able to decipher the map. Theres a chance that the map is a fake, and our efforts are in vain, but as the terrains depicted on the map are urate, we thought that it might be worth further looking into it, Liu Suifeng added. Youre free to join us if youre interested in it.


    Fang Chen wasnt too interested in it at the start, but his interest was piqued when he learned that the blessednd was in Chillwater. The ce where Enlightenment Heaven Supreme had imprinted in his mind back then was located in Chillwater too.


    <em>Could it be the same ce?</em>


    Fang Chen spent seconds in thought before replying, Could you wait a few days for me? There are matters in Great Xia that I have yet to settle.


    Of course. Well be waiting in the imperial pce. Just send us the word once youre done with your business. Xia Yuns eyes lit up, and he agreed right away.


    Blessednds were usually protected by formidable restriction arts. Even if they had be dpidated, these restriction arts were still enough to threaten Ki Refinement cultivators. They would be in a much safer position if Fang Chen joined their party.


    It was still fresh in their mind how Fang Chen had unleashed a devastating attack on the Foundation Establishment Blood Spirit Cultist a few days back.


    The three of them left aftering to an agreement.


    Li Daoye also chose to stay behind for the time being. He wanted to first explore this blessednd before deciding on his next move.


    Hehe, I wonder what I can get out of this. Li Daoye was excited.


    Imperial Duke Fang, a person standing at the Fang Manors entrance called out upon spotting Fang Chen.


    What is that fellow doing here? Li Daoye frowned.


    It was Tao Yu.


    Werent you epted by an unaffiliated cultivator? Why are you still here? Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    I had to stay behind for a while as I still had matters to deal with, but Ill be leaving with my masterter today, Tao Yu replied.


    What brought you here? Fang Chen asked.


    Imperial Duke Fang, can we talk in your manor? Tao Yu asked.


    Fang Chen nodded.


    Upon arriving at the Fang Manors guest room, Tao Yu suddenly sighed. The Third Prince wont be returning any time soon, right?


    You know that the Third Prince is still alive? Fang Chen was surprised. <em>I intentionally spread news about Xia Jis death. How can Tao Yu be certain that Xia Ji isnt dead yet?</em>


    The Third Prince wouldnt die that easily. Tao Yu chuckled. I have seen the Third Prince performing mystical feats since a long time ago. Now that I think about it, he might have already joined a cultivator sect then. I was the one who tipped off the Third Prince that Xia Yu intended to move his hidden piece in Greenpine to assassinate him.


    Oh Fang Chen stared at Tao Yu for a few seconds before suddenlyughing at the absurdity of it all. Shaking his head, he asked, In other words, you have been serving the Third Prince all along?


    Thats right. Tao Yu nodded. A mysterious smile emerged on his lips. The Third Prince said that you will never figure out that Im his man no matter how smart you are. Not only so, but the Third Prince also has many other eyes in the capital. I wonder if Imperial Duke Fang has noticed them.


    Im guessing that fellow intentionally told you to keep it to yourself until now, so that Id make a fool out of myself? Fang Chen burst intoughter. All right, get straight to it. You wouldnte here just to tell me this. What else do I not know?


    Li Daoye was perplexed listening to this conversation. It made him wonder about what kind of person the Third Prince was.


    The Third Prince told me to warn you about His Majesty. Tao Yus face suddenly turned grim.


    <em>Warn me about His Majesty? </em>Doubt flickered across Fang Chens eyes.


    Before he could think deeper into it, Tao Yu continued, The Third Prince seemed to have noticed something back then. You were part of the reason he chose to be a hostage in Greenpine, but it was also an excuse for him to temporarily leave Great Xia.


    At this point, Tao Yu heaved a sigh. We always thought that, other than Xia Yu, the only one who could threaten the Third Prince in the capital is you. We picked on you because we were afraid that you would umte too much power and im the throne. It looks like we were overthinking things. Your ambition is not constrained to Great Xia.


    Fang Chen wasnt bothered by that. Instead, he asked with a frown, Xia Ji told you to warn me against the emperor. What did he discover?


    I dont know. The Third Prince didnt tell me. Tao Yu shook his head. He sped his fist and said, Its about time. I should get going now. Imperial Duke Fang, may we meet again if fate permits.


    Go ahead. Fang Chen nodded.


    Shortly after Tao Yu left, Fang Chen settled into his chair and fell into deep thought. He ran through everything that had happened in recent days, hoping to catch even the slightest clue as to what could have been amiss.


    Li Daoye patiently waited by the side without making a noise.


    Around an hourter, Fang Chen suddenly looked toward the imperial pce and sneered, That vicious thing! He pushed his son forward as a scapegoat. That foolish Xia Yu didnt know that he was being yed like a fiddle even in his final moments.

 Chapter 158: Escape

    Chapter 158: Escape


    Li Daoyes face turned severe. Young master Fang, youre saying that the one who colluded with the Blood Spirit Cult is your Great Xias emperor?


    Xiao Shence was putting on a show even in his final moments. What a foolishly loyal bastard. Fang Chen took in a deep breath as rage surfaced in his eyes. Now that I think about it, there was no way Xia Yu could have beenpetent enough to win Xiao Shences undying loyalty. He was the emperors aide from the start to the end.


    What about the others? Li Daoye was bbergasted


    He never thought that mere mortals would be capable of such intricate schemes. Even a cultivator like him had been duped. Not once had he ever suspected that Xiao Shence was acting in the Pce of Great Peace.


    The others? That doesnt matter anymore, but those people probably thought they were serving the crown prince. Fang Chen scoffed. Xia Yu probably thought so too. He believed he had put together a group of close aides, and he could make use of the Blood Spirit Cult to be the emperor and bring Great Xia to a greater height, thus going down in history as a sage emperor. Yet, he never stopped to wonder whether his father knew about the Blood Spirit Cult or not.


    Now that Tao Yu has reminded me, do you think theres any reason for the Blood Spirit Cult to approach a crown prince who wields little power instead of the emperor? That uncle of mine is a scheming and vicious man. He has truly mastered the way of the emperor. If needed, he doesnt even hesitate to use his own flesh and blood as a shield to protect himself.


    He knew from the very start how huge of a controversy it would be to bring in the Blood Spirit Cult, so he prepared a path of retreat. He allowed Xia Yu to handle things on the surface while he eyed things from a distance away. Howughable it is that Xia Yu didnt know the truth even when he was going to be killed!


    Li Daoye was infuriated. How can that fellow be so cruel? Great Xia belongs to him, but he actually allowed the Blood Spirit Cult to use it as a pill cauldron?


    Instead of replying, Fang Chen closed his eyes, and his soul instantaneously arrived before the imperial pce.


    The imperial pce had been busy recently due to the emperors abdication. The eunuchs, maids, and even officials were rushing around the ce. The imperial guards also looked to be more vignt than ever.


    Fang Chen saw a daft Noble Consort Hua sitting in her room. He saw a group of concubines excitedly specting the sessor to the throne. The princes were busy discussing with their supporters how they could rally the officials to their side.


    However, the Great Xias emperor and his aunt were nowhere to be seen.


    They arent in the imperial pce? Fang Chen frowned.


    His soul drifted to other ces, such as the emperors outer pce, the hunting field, and so on, but the emperor was nowhere to be seen.


    He wouldnt escape for no reason. The likeliest impetus is that he discovered that Tao Yu had entered the Fang Manor, but theres such a short interval in between that theres no way he could have disappeared from the capital, not to mention hes traveling with my aunt, Fang Chen murmured grimly.


    For the following hour, Fang Chen searched the entire capital, but he found no traces of the emperor and the empress. It was as if the two of them had vanished from the face of the world.


    Slowly, Fang Chen started to grow anxious.


    He honestly couldnt care less whether the Great Xias emperor was dead or alive, but his aunt, Fang Cangyue, was his close kin! Fang Cangyue had doted a lot on him before she entered the imperial pce, and he held those sentiments dear to his heart.


    My aunt would have been fine if I discovered this earlier. Xia Xuanji, you can be sure that Ill find you even if I have to overturn oceans if you dare harm a single strand of my aunts hair! Fang Chen roared in fury.


    He felt self-reproach. He had calcted everything to ensure that his ns would go smoothly, but he ended up overlooking Xia Xuanji.<em> I should have never underestimated him. I knew that he was a wily old fox, but I still fell for his act.</em>


    His soul dove out of the capital andbed the area within a ten kilometers radius, until he started to feel fatigued and had no choice but to return his soul to his body. Even so, he still found no trace of the two of them.


    He fled from the capital within such a short period of time despite having my aunt with him He must have either already be a cultivator or is a stronger martial artist than I imagined, Fang Chen murmured.


    From Li Daoyes point of view, Fang Chen had been quiet for a long time before he suddenly murmured those inexplicable words. Perplexed, he asked, Who fled?


    The Great Xias emperor. Fang Chen harrumphed before hurriedly leaving the Fang Manor.


    Li Daoye quickly followed him.


    Soon, all of the Valiant Defenders were mobilized tob the capital. The search was so thorough that they practically stopped short of digging underground. Fang Chen was determined not to leave any stones unturned here.


    <em>Perhaps Xia Xuanji simply used some kind of trickery and is actually still hiding in the capital.</em>


    Not even the ministers and powerful officials were spared from the search. The Valiant Defenders barged right into their manors and searched every nook and cranny despite the furious opposition they faced.


    Some tried to bribe them to figure out the cause of this abrupt search, but the Valiant Defenders had no answer to their question as they didnt even know what they were looking for.


    News quickly spread into the imperial pce. It just so happened that all of the ministers and the Fifth King were gathered together, and they were shocked to hear the news.


    Li Guozhu had a tight frown. He turned to Jiang Yushu and the Fifth King and asked, What do the two of you think about this? Imperial Duke Fang made such a move right after His Majesty abdicated is he thinking about tampering with the heir selection?


    Dont make blind spections, Jiang Yushu stroked his beard as he replied. Imperial Duke Fang has his own reason for doing that. This could be an operation to dig up the remnants of the Blood Spirit Cult.


    The crowd tensed up upon hearing that.


    But shortly after, they heard the servants outside calling out Fang Chens title. A few momentster, Fang Chen stepped into the Pce of Great Peace together with Li Daoye.


    All of the officials quickly stood up to greet him.


    Imperial Duke Fang, all of the officials are gathered here, Eunuch You said fawningly.


    Mm. Fang Chen nodded before turning his eyes toward each of the officials, from Tao Minsheng and Ye Dongming to Li Guozhu and the others.


    His gaze unnerved the crowd.


    The Fifth King nervously cleared his throat and spoke up, We received word that you have ordered the Valiant Defenders tob the capital, not sparing even the manors of the ministers and officials. Are you looking for the remnants of the Blood Spirit Cultists?


    Its nothing much. Its just for an ease of mind, Fang Chen replied.


    <em>An ease of mind? </em>The crowd heaved a sigh of relief.


    Fang Chen looked at the officials and smiled. Have you decided who should take the crown?


    Li Guozhu thought for a few seconds before replying, The Second Prince should have rightfully be the heir after the crown princes death, but the Second Prince died prematurely. Going down the line of session, the Third Prince should have taken the crown, but who could have thought that the Third Prince would die in Greenpines hands


    Didnt His Majesty nominate a prince? Fang Chen interjected.


    Ah Li Guozhu was stunned, then he shook his head. His Majesty has refused to meet us in the past few days. He said from the start that we should decide among ourselves.


    I see. You should carefully think things through then. Ill go meet His Majesty.


    Leaving those words behind, Fang Chen made his way toward the emperors bed chamber, with Li Daoye following close behind him.

 Chapter 159: Threat

    Chapter 159: Threat


    No one was allowed to enter the emperors bed chamber without the emperors permission. A huge group of imperial guards was stationed at the entrance of the emperors quarters.


    Yet, Yan Beihan immediately stepped aside upon seeing Fang Chen and respectfully bowed to thetter. It was only after Fang Chen entered the emperors quarters that he straightened his back.


    Commander, isnt Imperial Duke Fang being toowless? His Majesty didnt even grant him an audience! How could he barge into His Majestys bed chamber just like that? If we let him in just like that, wont we one of the imperial guards frowned.


    Hush. Theres some things you dont understand, Yan Beihan said. During this period of time, we need to tuck our tail between our legs and lie low.


    Since the day Xiao Shence and the others were put to death, Yan Beihan and the others hadnt been able to approach the Pce of Great Peace. Even so, as a veteran in the imperial pce, he still found ways to receive updates about the most recent situation.


    It was due to such insider information that he dared not to stop Fang Chen though admittedly, he wouldnt have dared to stop Fang Chen either even if he didnt have the insider information.


    The emperors bed chamber was massive, but it was now so empty so it felt eerie.


    Isnt it chilling to stay in such a big room by yourself? Li Daoye muttered.


    The emperor has a rear pce of three thousand beauties, Fang Chen casually replied before searching the room for trails.


    Ten secondster, he found an envelope in a hiddenpartment.


    He left this for you? Li Daoye peeked over and frowned. That fellow knew that you woulde here? And he somehow predicted that you would find the hiddenpartment too?


    <em>Doesnt this mean that he had already anticipated that a day woulde when he would need to flee from his own country?</em>


    This Li Daoye gasped.


    He couldnt help but think that if a person like that became a cultivator, it would be like a dragon descending into the great ocean. In the world of cultivation, the deeper ones thoughts were, the more likely that one would survive to the very end.


    Fang Chen tore open the envelope to read the letter.


    <em>Fang Chen, I would have taken my empress away with me by the time you open this letter. To think that I, despite being the emperor, would be cornered to this extent by one of my subjects. Should Iugh or cry?</em>


    <em>Some things should be kept between us. A cmity might befall Great Xia if the word gets out. As long as you treat the imperial family kindly, Ill treat the empress kindly. This is my promise to you. Well meet again. </em>


    That dogshit Xia Xuanji is using your aunt to threaten you? Li Daoye couldnt stand how underhanded the Great Xias emperor was. Just how low can he stoop?


    Arent you skilled in the art of omen reading? Cant you find them? Fang Chen stowed away the letter before looking at Li Daoye.


    Well, its called the art of omen reading and not the art of finding people for a reason. The world is huge! How am I supposed to find them? I am a cultivator, not an immortal Li Daoye shook his head. But if he really sets his mind to hide, I doubt that youll find him any time soon.


    At this point, Li Daoyes eyes suddenly lit up. I have an idea! Theres a way for you to curse an entire n by the virtue of their bloodline. You can remotely curse Xia Xuanji to death through it even if you cant find him.


    He paused for a second before continuing on, Its just that his other close kin will be cursed to death too. Well, thats a bummer.


    That wont do. Fang Chen shook his head. He wouldnt resort to this curse even if he was capable of nting it, for Xia Ji had descended from Xia Xuanjis bloodline.


    Theres nothing else I can do. But I dont think you need to worry yet. He took the empress away with him because he didnt want you to go after the imperial family, so I doubt hell harm her, Li Daoye said.


    Fang Chen thought about it before nodding. There was not much he could do about this either, so he could only take a step at a time.


    The two of them left the emperors bed chamber and were just about to head back when they bumped into a group of concubines and their offspring.


    Paying respect to Imperial Duke Fang! the concubines greeted him.


    The princes and princesses bowed to Fang Chen as well. They were fairly young, with their ages ranging from six to sixteen. These were the imperial offspring who had failed the spirit assessment.


    They wouldnt have to bow to Fang Chen in the past, but he was now the Xia Imperial Duke, a transcendental-grade noble and that was still the secondary reason here.


    They had no idea what happened in the Pce of Great Peace that day, but it ended with the abdication of the emperor, along with the deaths of Crown Prince Xia Yu, Xiao Shence and ten other important officials.


    Convinced that that was Fang Chens doing, they were filled with fear toward Fang Chen, so much so that they dared not offend him in the least.


    You may spare with the formalities, Fang Chen said with a smile.


    A glint shed across one of the concubines eyes, and she spoke with a smile, Its still early, Imperial Duke Fang. Why dont you have a seat in my Inspiration Pce? Our Xia Li has always looked up to you, and hed like to seek your pointer regarding his martial arts.


    Please fulfill my wish, Imperial Duke Fang, Xia Li sped his fist as he looked at Fang Chen with hopeful eyes.


    Xia Li was the Fourth Prince, and he was around sixteen years of age. Unfortunately, he was hindered by his mothersmon birth, and that was his biggest hurdle to taking the crown.


    That woman!


    The other concubines quickly figured out her intent and were furious. They quickly extended invitations to Fang Chen too.


    The current political situation in Great Xia was clear to themwhoever wins Fang Chen over was the most likely one to be the sessor to the throne. After all, this was a powerhouse who stood as equals with the immortals!


    Such adies man, Li Daoye enviously scoffed under his breath.


    Ill have to turn down your invitations. Fang Chen smiled. I still have business to attend to. Lets talk about it next time.


    The concubines were disappointed, though they were also relieved that Fang Chen turned all of them down.


    Fang Chen, how could you be so vicious? Xia Yu would no longer be a thorn in your eye once he became a cultivator at the South Heaven Sect, but you still refused to spare him. Why? Why do you have to kill my son?!


    All of a sudden, a wretched cry screeched from behind.


    The concubines quickly looked over, only to see Noble Consort Hua looking over with reddened eyes and sunken cheeks. Her pupils were dull and without spirit, yet they were staring intently at Fang Chen.


    Its the madwoman the concubines murmured among themselves.


    There were rumors that Noble Consort Hua had gotten worse in recent days. She frequently struck her maids and eunuchs while shouting Die, Fang Chen! again and again. That made those maids and eunuchs flee from her, and they dared not approach her.


    Xia Yus death was indeed a pity. He could have be a cultivator if he survived.


    Whilementing Xia Yus death, many consorts and concubines actually felt relieved. If Xia Yu had still been alive, Noble Consort Hua would have gotten more arrogant. That would have only made their days even harder.


    She doesnt seem to know whats going on, Li Daoye whispered.


    Fang Chen looked at Noble Consort Hua and nodded.


    Just then, Eunuch You and arge group of eunuchs ran over. He ordered his subordinates to drag Noble Consort Hua out before rushing up to Fang Chen to apologize, Imperial Duke Fang, my subordinates have failed to keep an eye on Noble Consort Hua, resulting in this situation. Please pardon our ipetence.


    Keep a close eye on her, but dont mistreat her, Fang Chen ordered before leaving with Li Daoye.

 Chapter 160: Reverberation of the Bell

    Chapter 160: Reverberation of the Bell


    The maids and eunuchs of the imperial pce quickly stood by the side with lowered heads upon seeing Fang Chen. One of the maids suddenly thought of something and anxiously looked around with worried eyes.


    The eunuch beside her immediately pinched her arm and harshly whispered, What are you doing? Dont offend Imperial Duke Fang and implicate the rest of us!


    The maid winced in pain.


    Just then, a five-year-old boy ran over and charged into the eunuch. He angrily red at thetter. How dare you bully my Big Sister Xiang Zhen!


    Aiyo! The eunuch groaned in pain from being bumped into.


    That drew Fang Chen and Li Daoyes attention.


    The five-year-old boy was dressed in silk, but his clothes were old and had stitchings on them. Other than that, there were also bruises and scabbing wounds on his face.


    You little bas The eunuch instinctively raised his hand to strike the five-year-old boy, only to btedly remember something and turn over.


    What he saw made him shudder in fear.


    The maid named Xiang Zhen quickly pulled the boy down to kneel on the floor beside her. The eunuch also hurriedly groveled on the ground in fear.


    Paying respect to Imperial Duke Fang! They greeted him with trembling voices.


    Only the boy didnt say a word and stared at Fang Chen with curious eyes.


    You are the Seventeenth Prince? Fang Chen asked after some thought.


    He was deducing it based on the other partys traits and age. He remembered that Xia Xuanji had yet another son shortly after he fell in defeat in the Three Realms Mountain. This child was born from a little pce maid, who died shortly after giving birth to him.


    You are Imperial Duke Fang? Seventeenth Prince Xia Yuan asked.


    Seventeenth Prince, be respectful! Xiang Zhen reminded him with worried eyes, fearing that he would anger Fang Chen with his impoliteness.


    Yes, Big Sister Xiang Zhen. Xia Yuan nodded his little head before taking a more courteous tone. May I know if you are Imperial Duke Fang?


    Yes, I am. Fang Chen nodded with a smile. You may rise.


    Great! Xia Yuan immediately stood up.


    In contrast, the eunuchs legs were wobbly, and he lowered his head with a guilty conscience.


    Eunuch You noticed themotion and quickly rushed over. He nervously bowed and asked, Imperial Duke Fang, did these servants offend you?


    He subtly eyed Xia Yuan in his peripheral vision as he raised that question.


    Why did I see one of your people attempting to strike a prince? Fang Chen asked.


    The eunuchs heart lurched. Without any hesitation, he kneeled onto the floor with a trembling body and cried out loud, I was wrong, I was wrong! Imperial Duke Fang, please spare me!


    Xia Yuan was perplexed. <em>These eunuchs are usually so fierce. Why do they look even more timid than a mouse before Fang Chen? </em>This reminded him of the rumors he had heard about Fang Chen in recent days, and it prompted him to assess thetter out of curiosity.


    Eunuch Yous face stiffened up. He eyed Xia Yuan before nervously answering, Imperial Duke Fang, to be honest with you the Seventeenth Prince isnt of legitimate birth. His mother used to be a little pce maid, and she died shortly after childbirth. So


    So he has no backing in the imperial pce. Some concubines chose to oppress him, and you servants became the weapons in their hands, Fang Chen interjected.


    We wouldnt dare! Eunuch You hurriedly kneeled down as well. With a shaky voice, he quickly exined, I would never dare to collude with them. Not only so, but I even did the Seventeenth Prince a favor not too long ago.


    Yeaps, Eunuch You is a good person. He gave me a bun. Big Sister Xiang Zhen and I would have starved for that night otherwise, Xia Yuan testified for Eunuch You with a nod.


    Eunuch You looked at Xia Yuan with tears in his eyes. He wouldnt hesitate to kowtow a hundred times to the Seventeenth Prince right now for speaking up for him before Fang Chen!


    Youre starved even though youre a prince? Li Daoye was startled.


    Fang Chen chuckled. I know someone who was like him. He often starved back when he was younger too. The imperial pce looks extravagant on the outside, but once you see through it, youd realize that its iparably dirty.


    Those words were almost treacherous.


    Eunuch You and the others turned pale, but none of them let out a squeak. Of the entire Great Xia, only Fang Chen could get away with uttering such words in the imperial pce.


    Someone other than me and Big Sister Xiang Zhen starved in this imperial pce? Xia Yuan was surprised.


    Thats right. Your Third Brother suffered the same fate, Fang Chen said with a smile.


    Third Brother Xia Yuan looked confused.


    You have never met him. He was sent to Greenpine as a hostage the year you were born, Fang Chen exined.


    Ah Xia Yuan nodded his little head.


    His mother was a pce maid too, and she died shortly after his birth, Fang Chen added.


    Xia Yuans expression subtly changed.


    Xiang Zhen was flustered as she had no idea what Fang Chens intention was.


    Eunuch You, on the other hand, was starting to fathom what Fang Chen was getting at, and his eyes widened in incredulity. The way he looked at Xia Yuan changed as well.


    It rained a while back, and many people saw interesting sights. Did you see them too? I dont recall you participating in the spirit assessment. Fang Chen smiled.


    Big Sister Xiang Zhen and I were locked up on the day of the spirit assessment! Xia Yuan vehemently nodded. That day, I saw an elephant with nine heads in the sky. It was very, very big!


    He tried to gesture with his hands, but there was so much he could do with his short arms.


    Those who saw the phenomenon more or less possess some cultivation talent, Li Daoye reminded.


    Fang Chen chuckled. With a gentle wave of his hand, a Spirit Gauging Bell flew out from his storage ring and swiftly expanded till it was over three meters tall.


    The eunuchs and servants were stunned. This was the same feat performed by the immortals that visited them the other day!


    Imperial Duke Fang has a Spirit Gauging Bell too?!


    They said that he has been epted by a powerful sect.


    A few concubines had been secretly watching them. They gasped when they saw the Spirit Gauging Bell, and they were taken aback when they realized that Fang Chen wanted to test Xia Yuans cultivation talent. This prompted them to whisper among themselves.


    Come. Strike it, Fang Chen told Xia Yuan.


    Xiang Zhen was excited. She whispered to Xia Yuan, Seventeenth Prince, Imperial Duke Fang is offering you a precious opportunity here. You should do as he says.


    Xia Yuan vaguely understood what was going on. Taking a deep breath, he hurled his fist forth.


    <em>Dong!</em>


    A crisp reverberation of a bell echoed. Li Guozhu and the others, who were discussing the matter of the next sessor, were startled. They couldnt be more familiar with this toll.


    Someone is undergoing a spirit assessment?!


    Is a cultivator looking to ept a disciple?


    The officials were perplexed.


    The sound seems to being from within the imperial pce, the Fifth King said. He stood up and made his way out of the Pce of Great Peace. Lets take a look.


    The officials of the imperial court followed him.

 Chapter 161: Great Xia’s New Emperor

    Chapter 161: Great Xia¡¯s New Emperor


    I-isnt that the Seventeenth Prince?


    Imperial Duke Fang is conducting the spirit assessment for the Seventeenth Prince? Where did he obtain the Spirit Gauging Bell from?!


    The officials who btedly arrived at the scene were bewildered.


    More maids and eunuchs were gathering in the area. Even Yan Beihan rushed over as well. When he saw Fang Chen standing in front of Xia Yuan, his eyes visibly narrowed.


    Dont be afraid. Continue, Fang Chen said.


    The sudden appearance of a crowd left Xia Yuan feeling ufortable. It was only after hearing Fang Chens encouragement that he struck the Spirit Gauging Bell a second time.


    <em>Dong!</em>


    It was the second toll.


    Xiang Zhen nervously grabbed the corner of her skirt.


    <em>Dong!</em>


    <em>Dong!</em>


    Four tolls! Such cultivation talent was enough to catch the attention of a major sect!


    The Fifth Kings face darkened. He looked at the crowd and bellowed, Why didnt the Seventeenth Prince undergo the spirit assessment back then? Who the hell is behind this?


    Thats how dirty the pce can get, Jiang Yushu scoffed.


    Those fools. They are still fighting each other even at a time like this, the Fifth King snorted.


    The crowd was perplexed. The emperor would have known that the Seventeenth Prince didnt undergo the spirit assessment, but he didnt say a word. This suggested that he had implicitly consented to it.


    As the crowd wondered if Xia Yuan could evoke a fifth toll, Fang Chen suddenly stowed away the Spirit Gauging Bell. The crowd was perplexed, and Xia Yuan was confused.


    Imperial Duke Fang, I haventpleted my spirit assessment yet, Xia Yuan said.


    Four tolls are enough for now. Be a good emperor and get a passing grade from me. If so, Ill let youplete a spirit assessment and bestow upon you a different path, Fang Chen said.


    Ah


    The crowd gasped, be it the officials, the concubines, the eunuchs, and the maids.


    Fang Chen couldnt have made his intention any clearerhe was nning to support the Seventeenth Prince onto the throne!


    Indignation shed across the eyes of some present, but they dared not to reveal it. They could only silently rage in their hearts.


    Xiang Zhen couldnt believe it either, and tears welled up in her reddened eyes. The eunuch beside her was so terrified that his lips turned purple. Eunuch You was overjoyed, for he had shown favor to the future emperor while he was down.


    Emperor? Me? Xia Yuan was bewildered.


    What do the rest of you think? Fang Chen looked at Li Guozhu and the others.


    Isnt it a little reckless? The Seventeenth Prince is still young Li Guozhu hesitantly said.


    Its because hes young that he can learn many things from scratch, such as how to govern a country, how to care for his people, and how to be a benevolent ruler, Fang Chen replied. Its settled then. We shall find an auspicious date for Xia Yuans coronation ceremony.


    The next auspicious date should be seven days away one of the officials murmured.


    Tomorrow is an auspicious day, Fang Chen interjected with a chuckle. We can just do a simple ceremony. Theres no need to be too extravagant.


    The official dared not to refute Fang Chen. <em>Since Imperial Duke Fang says tomorrow is an auspicious day, let tomorrow be an auspicious day then </em>


    The crowd felt like they were in a dream. It felt unreal. Who could have thought that Fang Chen would suddenly call the shots on something as important as this? This made them wonder how this would all go down.


    Fang Chen had promised Xia Yuan that he would let thetter cultivate if he proved to be a good ruler. <em>Does that mean our next Great Xias emperor will be a cultivator? That doesnt sound bad either </em>


    O-Old Ancestor, is it appropriate to allow Imperial Duke Fang to choose Great Xias next emperor by himself? One of the concubines turned to Xia Yun and his two juniors and bowed.


    The crowd btedly noticed that Xia Yun and his two juniors had arrived at the scene.


    The concubine was the mother of Fourth Prince Xia Li. She was clutching onto the final sliver of hope for her son.


    Old Ancestor. The officials of the imperial court bowed to Xia Yun too.


    Xia Yun was in a dilemma.


    He, Liu Suifeng, and Tantai Qingfeng were astonished to learn that Fang Chen had a Spirit Gauging Bell of his own. That was an artifact that usually symbolized the foundation of a sect! While it might not have any offensive capability, its use far surpassed that.


    Fang Chen must have purchased the Spirit Gauging Bell from Elder Jinnan or the others but how many ki stones did he have to be able to make such a purchase? This indirectly hinted at how wealthy and powerful the sect behind him was.


    I trust Daoist Fangs judgment, Xia Yun said.


    Those words sealed the deal.


    The concubine had no choice but to shut her mouth. Fourth Prince Xia Li lowered his head.


    This little fellow has extraordinary cultivation talent. None of the princes are on par with him, Xia Yun said, It would be Great Xias blessing to have such an emperor.


    No one dared to voice their opposition anymore.


    The following day was Xia Yuans coronation ceremony.


    The imperial court followed Fang Chens order and held a simple ceremony. Those living in the capital only learned about the coronation from the Valiant Defenders marching down the streets.


    This transition of the top seat was much more peaceful than usual. There was not a single faction that stepped forward to challenge the decision. They knew that doing so at this juncture was equivalent to opposing Fang Chen and Xia Yun


    There was not a single person in the capital who had the guts to do so.


    It was also on this day itself that the officials of the imperial court learned that the Great Xias emperor had gone traveling with his empress. This caught them off guard, but it was a relief that Fang Chen and Xia Yun were enough to hold the fort.


    Xia Yuan sat on the dragon throne wearing a little dragon robe. He wouldnt stop looking around with eyes twinkling with curiosity.


    By the corner, Xiang Zhen felt nervous on his behalf. Her tense nerves were only assuaged by Fang Chens presence, as she knew that nothing would go wrong as long as he was around.


    Eunuch You was still the chief eunuch, and he stood a step beneath the dragon throne.


    Long live Your Majesty! The officials of the imperial court kowtowed and chanted deafeningly.


    Startled, Xia Yuan hurriedly straightened his posture.


    After the officials greeting, Li Guozhu stood up and said, Fellow brethren, His Majesty is still young right now. We ought to choose an imperial mentor to guide him well.


    The Fifth King and Minister Jiang will take that role, Fang Chen said.


    The crowd immediately looked at the two of them.


    Jiang Yushu nced at Fang Chen before smiling back at the crowd. Im getting old, and I fear Imcking the energy for this job. But since youre the one asking this of me, I shall do my best in this role then.


    <em>The Minister of Justice is going to be the emperors mentor? This </em>


    The crowd was perplexed.


    Traditionally, it was either the Minister of Rites, Tao Mingsheng, or the Prime Minister, Li Guozhu, who took the role of the imperial mentor, but since it was Fang Chen who made the call, there was not a person who voiced their disagreement.


    Xia Yuan, Fang Chen suddenly called out.


    The crowd was rmed to hear Fang Chen calling the emperor directly by his name.


    Imperial Duke Fang! Xia Yuan instinctively stood up and answered.


    Be a good emperor, or else be wary that I might take your head in your sleep, Fang Chen said with a jokingugh before taking his leave.


    Xia Yuan instinctively covered his neck out of fear. He stared at Fang Chens departing silhouette in a daze, but a seed had been nted in his heart.

 Chapter 162: Returning to the Manor

    Chapter 162: Returning to the Manor


    While Fang Chen was absent, the southern regions Fang Manor had developed 500 <em>mu </em>of farnd in the area. The surrounding soil was fertile, and there was a ready supply of water too, making it suited for agriculture. (~ 60 football fields)


    The nearby civilians had been reluctant to farm in this area due to the beasts and faes roaming in the mountain, but with the construction of the Fang Manor, they gradually realized that there were fewer beast attacks in the area.


    Some said that the beasts were afraid of the Fang Manor. Some said that Fang Chens powerful disposition had suppressed them.


    Regardless of the reason, many civilians moved to the spirit springs vicinity and rented a few plots ofnd from the Fang Manor. It was not a tough decision for them to make, as the climate here was morefortable and more suited to farming.


    It didnt take long for a bustling vige to be formed in the area, and the most striking building within the vige was none other than the Fang Manor.


    Master, I would have never thought this ce could change by so much in such a short time, Zhong Ying remarked.


    This ce was still barren thest time she visited; there were only some simple huts aside from the spirit spring. However, it now looked majestic like a massive town in the making.


    The Fang Manors foundation is beyond your imagination, the Bear Mountain Sect Master replied with a chuckle.


    The two of them walked down a road, where the civilians were busy tilling the fields by the side. Before they knew it, they had arrived at the Fang Manor.


    Miss Zhong? The guard recognized Zhong Ying and smiled at her. Miss Zhong, are you here to look for our Second Miss?


    Is Little Sister Zhixue here? Zhong Ying asked. I came with my master today to pay respects to Imperial Duke Fang and catch up with Little Sister Zhixue.


    Is this the Bear Mountain Sect Master? The guard turned to the Bear Mountain Sect Master and smiled. The Bear Mountain Sect Master is the only power that rivals the Profound Saber Sect in the current southern region. I have long admired you.


    Youre too polite. The Bear Mountain Sect Master politely sped his fist.


    He couldnt help but be surprised by how dignified the Fang Manors guard was. <em>No wonder others secretly call them Great Xias number one n, putting it even above the imperial family. </em>


    The Fang Manors guards had shed with Chillwaters Nightmare Knights and massacred them just a while back, after all. No one would dare to look down on them after that.


    Our young master is currently in the capital, so Im afraid that


    Before the guard could finish his words, he suddenly looked behind them and respectfully bowed. Young master.


    The Bear Mountain Sect Master and Zhong Ying turned around as well. Unbeknownst to them, Fang Chen was already standing just around three meters away from them. There was a faint smile on his lips.


    Imperial Duke Fang, the two of them greeted Fang Chen.


    Youre too polite. Fang Chen smiled. Come, lets talk in the manor.


    In the Fang Manors reception hall, Fang Chen quickly learned the reason behind the Bear Mountain Sect Masters arrival and smiled. Do you mean it, Bear Mountain Sect Master? Its no easy feat to move the massive Bear Mountain Sword Sect to the South Immortal Commandery.


    Imperial Duke Fang, I have thought things through, and itd be best for our Bear Mountain Sword Sect to move to the South Immortal Commandery. However, Id only dare to make the move after receiving your permission, the Bear Mountain Sect Master politely replied.


    The Heavensword Mountain Vi might have fallen, but thatnd still belongs to them. I dont have the power to assign thatnd to your Bear Mountain Sword Sect. Where do you intend to settle down at after moving to the South Immortal Commandery? Fang Chen asked.


    We have never eyed the Heavensword Mountain Visnd. We were thinking that if Imperial Duke Fang permits, we hope to upy one of the nearby mountains, the Bear Mountain Sect Master said sheepishly.


    Fang Chenughed. <em>It turns out the Bear Mountain Sect Master is not eyeing the Heavensword Mountain Vi but me! He wants to move his sect near here? Well </em>


    I can allow that, but you should know that I dislike ruckus. If you do decide to move your Bear Mountain Sword Sect here, I hope that youll keep your disciples in line and prohibit them from causing trouble, Fang Chen said with a smile.


    Definitely!


    The Bear Mountain Sect Master was overjoyed. He hadnt expected Fang Chen to ept his request so easily. This ce was the ideal ce for his sect to move into, be it the cold spring or the favorable climate!


    Zhong Ying was delighted too.


    Just then, she noticed something in her peripheral vision and looked over.


    An iparablyrge serpent slithered across the manors wall and was making its way over. The thickest part of its body exceeded the diameter of a water bucket, and its scales glistened coldly under the sunlight.


    Ah! Zhong Ying cried. She reflexively leaped behind Fang Chen.


    The Bear Mountain Sect Master was startled. He turned around, and beads of cold sweat immediately started forming on his forehead. <em>I thought faes are afraid of Fang Chen? Why is this one attacking the Fang Manor?!</em>


    Imperial Duke Fang, that fae The Bear Mountain Sect Master nervously backed away.


    Third Junior, I told you that our master has guests. Youre scaring them! a hoarse voice echoed. The intonation of each syble sounded off, as if the other party was a foreigner.


    Following that, a massive ape appeared at the door and sped his fist toward Fang Chen. Master, our Third Sister has recently made a breakthrough. She was excited to ry the news to you when she heard about your return. Please pardon her for this.


    <em>They really are faes, and they can even speak the human tongue at that!</em>


    The Bear Mountain Sect Master and Zhong Ying were bewildered.


    Zhong Ying immediately recognized Victorious Buddha to be the ape fae they had met the other day, and she was astounded to hear the other party addressing Fang Chen as master.


    Dont worry, they are faes who reside in the mountain forest. They have been enlightened, and I have taken them in as my disciples, Fang Chen consoled the two of them.


    He walked to the entrance and looked at Victorious Buddha, Great Mountain Tiger, and the excited Azure Sky. Then, he nodded in approval. Your spirit ki has be purer. Youre slowly getting onto the right path. Azure Sky has managed to manifest her third immortal vein as well.


    Fang Chen took out a hundred low-grade ki stones and passed them to Victorious Buddha. Ill be going on a long journey soon. These ki stones should be enough for your cultivation for the time being.


    Thank you, master. Victorious Buddha kneeled down and kowtowed.


    Even after the three faes left, the Bear Mountain Sect Master struggled to snap out of his daze. The sight of the faes kneeling to Fang Chen simply left too strong of an impression on him.


    I-Imperial Duke Fang, are those three the legendary faes? the Bear Mountain Sect Master asked with a stutter.


    Indeed. Fang Chen nodded.


    To think that there are really faes in this world the Bear Mountain Sect Master muttered.


    They had heard of faes in folklore, but they never thought that there would be faes capable of human speech in the world. This defied theirmon sense.


    All beings in the world are blessed with spirit. Theres nothing surprising about that, Fang Chen remarked. The two of you traveled here from afar. Why dont you spend a few days in our Fang Manor?


    The Bear Mountain Sect Master thought about it, but he turned down the offer. There were many things they needed to prepare for the move. Now that he knew that the three faes were Fang Chens disciples, he was even determined to move over as fast as possible.


    Fang Chen saw them off before heading to Fang Zhentians courtyard.

 Chapter 163: Kidnapped

    Chapter 163: Kidnapped


    Grandfather.


    Father, mother.


    Second Uncle.


    Fang Chen greeted them one after another. Noticing the conspicuous absence of one person, he asked, Wheres Zhixue?


    Shes at the Auspicious King Manor. She has gotten close with the Auspicious Kings Sixth Daughter in recent days, Fang Canghai replied.


    Fang Chen nodded before turning to Fang Zhentian.


    Thetter had made some progress in his cultivationhe appeared to have manifested his second immortal vein. In contrast, Fang Canghai and his wife, as well as Fang Cangyou, still hadnt manifested their immortal vein yet.


    Grandfather, how do you feel? Fang Chen asked.


    I feel fine. Im cultivating faster with the help of the ki stones, Fang Zhentian said with augh. Hows your business in the capitaling along?


    Fang Chen told them about the emergence of the Spirit Marrow, the arrival of the major sects in search of disciples, their suppression of the Foundation Establishment Blood Spirit Cultist, and the execution of Xia Yu, Xiao Shence, and the others.


    Fang Zhentian and the others turned grim listening to his stories. They didnt expect so many things to happen within such a short time.


    How can Xia Yu be so foolish? Hes our crown prince! How could he help outsiders to harm our people? Fang Canghai was seething with anger.


    Good riddance! Fang Cangyou scoffed.


    Great Xia should be at peace now that the Foundation Establishment Blood Spirit Cultist has died. At least the worst is over, Fang Zhentian said. Im surprised to hear that Xia Yun joined the South Heaven Sect. He had been engrossed with seeking a path toward immortality, but to think that he really found a way out.


    What a pity we werent around when the Spirit Marrow emerged, Fang Cangyou said with a sigh. We could have benefited from it otherwise. Who knows? We might have manifested our first immortal vein by now.


    Such fortuitous encounters cant be forced. It happens, or it doesnt. There are no what-ifs, Fang Zhentian calmly replied. The Purple Aura Form will nourish your body even if you fail to manifest an immortal vein. That will greatly benefit your martial cultivation.


    Indeed, Second Uncle. You would be much stronger than first stage and second stage Ki Refinement cultivators if you be a Heaven Profound martial artist in the future, Fang Chen said.


    All of a sudden, Fang Chen stopped talking and his face turned grim. His abrupt change in attitude made Fang Zhentian and the others realize that something had gone awry.


    Chener, did something happen? Fang Canghai asked.


    My aunt she has been taken away by Xia Xuanji. Fang Chen told them about his conjecture, which astonished Fang Canghai and the others.


    Youre saying that dog scum could be a cultivator? And he took away our little sister to threaten you?! Fang Cangyous face reddened in anger.


    Fang Zhentian remained calm in contrast. Dont panic. Its unlikely that hell harm Cangyue since he chose to take her away, unless hes confident of dealing with Chener.


    Chener, is there no way to find them? Who could have thought that Xia Xuanji is so scheming? He even used his own son as a scapegoat! Fang Canghai clenched his fists.


    Fang Chen thought about it, but he shook his head. Itll be hard to find him if he sets his mind to hide from us.


    He is a Xia nsman. Hell eventually return to Great Xia, Fang Zhentian said. Ill have a talk with him when the timees.


    Fang Cangyou, who was getting sick of cultivating, set up his mind to master the Purple Aura Form so that he could teach Xia Xuanji a lesson when they met again!


    Grandfather, Xia Yun invited me somewhere. I intend to head over to take a look. Here are 300 low-grade ki stones. You can use them as you please. Also, I have a Spirit Gauging Bell here.


    Fang Chen handed over 300 low-grade ki stones, keeping just 300 low-grade ki stones in his storage ring for emergency use. At the same time, he handed the Foundation Establishment Blood Spirit Cultists storage ring to Fang Zhentian.


    Fang Zhentians interest was piqued. The storage ring was a good thing. It would be convenient to have such an artifact with him.


    You mentioned that this Spirit Gauging Bell can test ones cultivation talent? Fang Cangyou curiously wheeled his wheelchair over to take a look.


    Fang Chen eyed Fang Cangyous legs. <em>Second Uncle sure has a terrible personality. He wants to maintain the act even in front of our grandfather. </em>


    Indeed. Lets call my Little Sister back, and we can try it together. If anyone disys signs of having cultivation talent, we can also use it to gauge their aptitude. It is damaged though, so we cant use it too many times. Itd be best to use it sparingly for now. Ill bring back a better Spirit Gauging Bell in the future. Fang Chen smiled.


    Fang Canghai ordered someone to head to the city and call Fang Zhixue back.


    Following that, Fang Canghai and the others tried striking the Spirit Gauging Bell.


    The result was unsatisfactory. Fang Canghai and his wife didnt have any cultivation talent, falling to evoke even a single toll. Fang Cangyou, however, managed to evoke two tolls.


    Are our Fang nsmen that untalented? Both big brother and sister-inw have no cultivation talent at all? Fang Cangyou eximed.


    That works too. Fang Canghai breathed a sigh of relief. He took his wifes hand and turned to Fang Zhentian, saying, Father, we shant keep youpany here. We intend to travel around the southern region. It has been a long time since we had time to ourselves.


    Go ahead, but bring some people with you. Someone might go after you to deal with Chener, Fang Zhentian said.


    Well be fine. Chener has given us some Purple Lightning Talismans. Well be able to deal with even Ki Manifestation martial artists with those talismans, Fang Canghai replied.


    He turned to Fang Cangyou and said, Second Brother, you shouldnt waste your cultivation talent. It doesnt matter how far you can go; itll be to the benefit of our Fang n to have as many cultivators as possible.


    I understand, Big Brother. Fang Cangyou nodded.


    Grandfather, its your turn, Fang Chen said.


    Me? Fang Zhentians lips crept up. Ill pass on the spirit assessment, lest it shakes my heart. Its meand not the Spirit Gauging Bellwho shall decide how far Ill go on this road.


    Fang Chen nodded.


    Two hourster, the guard who went to the city to call Fang Zhixue back returned with bad news. Fang Zhixue was kidnapped while ying with the Auspicious Kings Sixth Daughter.


    The guard returned with the Auspicious Kings First Son, Xia Song.


    Xia Songs face was covered in cold sweat. His face paled when he saw Fang Chen and the others, and the first thing he said was, Imperial Duke Fang, this matter has nothing to do with our Auspicious King Manor.


    She was kidnapped in your turf, and you say it has nothing to do with you? Fang Chen sneered.


    Xia Song immediately kneeled on the floor and lowered his head. His body wouldnt stop trembling. Imperial Duke Fang, my father has already dispatched our men tob the area. We should be able to find Miss Zhixues whereabouts very soon.


    Rise. I already have an idea where she is, Fang Chen cidly said.


    Xia Song was taken aback. <em>Fang Chen knows who made a move? </em>He breathed a sigh of relief. Prior toing here, his father had told him that it could spell the end of their Auspicious King Manor if Fang Chen thought that they were behind this matter.


    Do you know a one-eyed schr who looks to be around his twenties? Fang Chen asked.


    Xia Songs face warped in incredulity. Its him?!

 Chapter 164: Longevity Ki

    Chapter 164: Longevity Ki


    Xia Song quickly exined the background of that schr.


    He was from a school in the South Immortal Commandery.


    The southern region regarded martial arts above academics, so only those who were highly talented and passionate about academics would be able to enter the school.


    The Auspicious King was the honorary principal of the school, and he often visited the school with Xia Song to lecture the students. Over time, Xia Song became close with a student named Zhao Yan.


    Zhao Yan was from a humble background, but he had a dashing face and meticulous heart. Often, he only needed to read a passage once to grasp its key concepts and even formte personal insights about it.


    Due to that, the Auspicious King harbored high hopes for Zhao Yan. He intended to send thetter to the capital to participate in the imperial exams.


    Unfortunately, that made the other students in the school jealous of Zhao Yan, and they began oppressing him. Zhao Yan turned a blind eye to their antics and focused on his own studies.


    asionally, Xia Song would invite him on a boat trip on the Great Xia River to share poetry and exchange couplets.


    One day, women started disappearing in the South Immortal Commander. Some weredies from distinguished households, and some were young girls. This case quickly caught attention, and Jue Panshi personally led a team of chiliarchs to investigate the matter.


    Dayster, they dug up a few female corpses that hadnt fully dposed inside Zhao Yans tattered hut. They were the missing personnel! As a result, Zhao Yan was arrested under the suspicion of being the murderer.


    No matter how the Valiant Defenders questioned him, Zhao Yan refused to confess to his crime, insisting that he was innocent.


    Xia Song saw him once then; he had lost one of his eyes, and his body was covered with grievous wounds. He only had a breath left in him, but he still insisted that he was innocent and begged Xia Song to help him root out the real culprit.


    Imperial Duke Fang, the evidence was in ce. I couldnt exploit my power to save him. Id cant face the deceased women and their family if I did that, Xia Song said with clenched jaws.


    However, Zhao Yan, who was to be executed at noon, suddenly disyed astonishing martial prowess. He broke free of his restraints, defeated over thirty elites from the Valiant Defenders, and vanished into thin air. That made us more certain that hes the culprit, a human-faced beast. The reason he concealed his martial prowess was so that he could secretly harm those women withouting under suspicion!


    From that day on, Zhao Yan has been wanted in our South Immortal Commandery. It has been years since, but there hasnt been any news on him


    At this point, Xia Song looked at Fang Chen and asked, Is Zhao Yan the culprit who kidnapped my Sixth Sister and Miss Zhixue?


    Do you think a person who possess such martial cultivation and hasmitted such grievous crimes would allow the Valiant Defenders to take him away and willingly suffer such torture? Fang Chen asked.


    Xia Song was conflicted. They had thought about that too, but it was hard to overlook the overwhelming evidence. There was little room to amodate other narratives, especially one based solely on circumstantial evidence.


    Alternatively, Zhao Yan could have also stubbornly held on in hopes that he would be acquitted, so that he could continue studying and eventually be an official of the imperial court.


    After listening to the story, Fang Canghai and his wife turned to Fang Chen and said, Chener, you should head over and bring Zhixue back. Keep her safe, all right?


    Fang Chen nodded before taking his leave.


    Around fifty kilometers away from the Fang Manor was a massive man made cavern dug out from a steep cliff face. No one had ever discovered this cavern as this area was inessible to ordinary civilians.


    Inside the cavern were several stone chambers, looking almost like an ordinary house. It was just dimly-lit, so oilmps had to be hung on the walls.


    Fang Zhixue and the Auspicious Kings Sixth Daughter sat by the corner. The Auspicious Kings Sixth Daughter held tightly onto Fang Zhixue, shaken by the ordeal.


    Not far away from them sat a young man dressed like a schr. He was immersed in a book.


    Say, do you not know who we are? You shouldnt have kidnapped us. You can hide wherever you want, but my big brother will find you and kill you, Fang Zhixue said. Why dont you free us right now, and Ill pretend this didnt happen? I, Fang Zhixue, am a woman of my word!


    The schr was unmoved.


    Fang Zhixue slowly grew anxious. She didnt know who the schr was, but his means were frightening. Her speed was not to be underestimated, being a Ki Explosion martial artist who practiced the Purple Aura Form and consumed the spirit spring water.


    Yet, the schr subdued her in a single move! Even a Ki Control martial artist wouldnt have been able to pull that off.


    My big brother is Fang Chen. Even if you are a Ki Manifestation martial artist, my big brothers disciples can still easily subdue you, let alone my big brother. You should know whats good for you! Fang Zhixue continued hurling threats.


    I have long heard about Imperial Duke Fang, the schr finally spoke up with a cid voice. There was a time that I thought about sharing a drink with Imperial Duke Fang after joining the imperial court as an official. What a pity.


    What right do you have to share a drink with my big brother?! Youre a kidnapper! What do you intend to achieve by kidnapping the two of us? Money? Fang Zhixue roared.


    Kidnapped? The schrughed self-deprecatingly before ignoring Fang Zhixue.


    Fang Zhixue suddenly noticed that one of the schrs eyes looked lifeless. Startled, she asked with a suppressed voice, You have a grudge with our Fang Manor?


    My target is the Auspicious Kings Sixth Daughter. You were coteral. I, Zhao Yan, have nothing against your Fang Manor. Rest assured, I wont do anything to you, Zhao Yan said.


    That terrified the Auspicious Kings Sixth Daughter. <em>He is after our Auspicious King Manor!</em>


    With a quivering voice, she asked, I-I dont know you.


    You were still young back then. Its normal you dont remember me, Zhao Yan said. I am very close with your big brother, however.


    Fang Zhixue was starting to make sense of the situation. <em>This Zhao Yan has a grudge with the Auspicious King Manor. He was nning to just kidnap the Auspicious Kings Sixth Daughter, but I was in the way, so he grabbed me as well.</em>


    She spent a moment in thought before asking, What do you want?


    Dont ask so much. Just obediently stay there for the next few days. Zhao Yan shook his head.


    Few days? It wont even take half a day for my big brother to find us, Fang Zhixue sneered.


    She wasnt sure if Fang Chen was back from the capital yet, but she was praying that she could intimidate the other party through Fang Chens name.


    Who, in Great Xia, wouldnt tremble after hearing Fang Chens name?


    To Fang Zhixues surprise, Zhao Yan calmly chuckled before replying, Your big brother wont be a match for me even if hes here. I have only remained unknown because I dont want my name to get out.


    My big brother wont be a match for you? Thats the biggest joke I have ever heard! You cant even hope to begin to fathom what my big brother is capable of! Fang Zhixue snorted.


    Zhao Yan shook his head. I reached pinnacle Human Profound by seven years old, and Iprehended Longevity Ki by the time I was sixteen.


    Fang Zhixue gasped. She stared at Zhao Yan in disbelief.


    <em>Hes kidding, right? Longevity Ki?</em>


    There were four stages to the Earth Profound realm: Aureate Ki, Primal Ki, Origin Ki, and Longevity Ki. If Zhao Yan had reached Longevity Ki, that would mean that he was a pinnacle Earth Profound realm martial artist!

 Chapter 165: The Three Faes Falling in Defeat

    Chapter 165: The Three Faes Falling in Defeat


    Fang Zhixue was so shocked that she stuttered, Y-you must be out of your mind! Youre saying that youre a Longevity Ki martial artist?! Even Chillwater wouldnt have more than a handful of Longevity Ki martial artists!


    The Auspicious Kings Sixth Daughter was also surprised by Zhao Yans words that her fear temporarily vanished. She hadnt expected to hear someone in Great Xia making such a huge boast.


    Even your big brother is just Great Xias youngest Ki Manifestation martial artist. I heard he recently defeated Chillwaters Ji Lengyue. That means he has advanced to either first stage Aureate Ki or second stage Primal Ki. Such talent is more than enough for him to tower above others in Great Xia, Zhao Yan said.


    Let me tell you a story. Many years ago, there was an ordinary fisherman couple who lived by the Great Xia River. For generations, their family has made a living from fishing. It was a tough life, but they were at least able to fill their stomachs. Shortly after, the couple had a child, and the child added much joy to their simple lives.


    s! Zhao Yan suddenly sighed.


    A heavy rain raised huge waves in the Great Xia River, taking away the couples lives. Their son was only three years old then. With no other family members to take care of him, he went hungry. He was so hungry that he had to eat grass and tree bark. He thought about fishing like his parents did, but his parents died before they could impart to him the art of fishing, though it was not as if he had the strength to fish either.


    In the end, he couldnt take it anymore, so he marched into the mountain, determined to find something that could really fill his stomach. He walked and walked, and he eventually found himself standing before a cliff face.


    There, he discovered peculiar fruits growing on a tree, a corpse that had died for many years, and a book. He couldnt read the words in the book, but the fruits filled his tummy, allowing him to stave off starvation.


    Somehow, a single fruit could keep him full for seven days, so he would only drop by once every seven days to eat the fruit. In the meantime, he secretly stood outside a private school to learn how to read and write.


    Zhao Yan chuckled. He began trying to read the book. It was tough, but there was nothing else for him to do. Whenever he got hungry, he would munch on a fruit. Four years passed in a sh. Before he knew it, he was already a Ki Manifestation martial artist.


    That gave him the courage to live on despite being alone. Through his hard work, he joined a school and properly learned how to read and write. He didnt give up on his martial arts though. By the time he was seventeen, he had already cultivated Longevity Ki. It was also then that he learned this was known as the fourth stage of Earth Profound.


    But no matter how strong a martial artist was, there was so much they could do alone. He continued studying in hopes that he could join the imperial court as an official and help those who faced the same plight as him.


    By this point, Fang Zhixue and the Auspicious Kings Sixth Daughter could tell that Zhao Yan was recounting his story.


    <em>Could he really be a pinnacle Earth Profound realm martial artist? Is it because of the fortuitous encounter he had as a child? </em>Fang Zhixue wondered.


    The Auspicious Kings Sixth Daughter suddenly recalled something. She pointed her finger at Zhao Yan and eximed in shock, Y-you are Big Brother Zhao Yan!


    Xia He, you finally recognized me. Zhao Yan chuckled.


    Big Sister Zhixue, theres nothing to fear! Big Brother Zhao Yan wont hurt us! Xia He excitedly said.


    Zhao Yan was taken aback. He stared at Xia He in bewilderment before averting his gaze. What makes you so sure that I wouldnt hurt you?


    Youre Big Brother Zhao Yan! Whenever you brought me out and met beggars, you would always give several days worth of your meal money to them. Someone as kind as you wouldnt hurt us! Xia He said. Big brother told me that you ended up starving for the next few days.


    I am a martial artist. I wont starve just because I dont eat for days, Zhao Yan harrumphed.


    Fang Zhixue was confused. Why did you kidnap us then?


    Its that case, isnt it? Xia Hes mood suddenly fell. I have always believed that Big Brother Zhao Yan isnt that kind of person.


    What is it?! Stop talking in riddles!!! Fang Zhixue was losing her patience. Rather than escaping from this ce, her priority had changed to uncovering Zhao Yans goal for capturing them.


    Just then, a hoarse voice echoed outside the cavern, Senior Aunt, are you inside?


    Its Junior Victorious Buddha! Fang Zhixue was overjoyed. She turned to Zhao Yan and said, My big brothers disciple is here. Youre a gone case!


    Zhao Yan frowned. He slowly stood up and walked to the caverns entrance, only to see a massive ape standing outside, quietly assessing him with calm eyes.


    A fae? Zhao Yan stared at Victorious Buddha and frowned. I never thought there were faes in this world, let alone one familiar with the human tongue.


    He surveyed the surroundings and saw Great Mountain Tiger and Azure Skys silhouettes too. His lips curled up. I thought Fang Zhixue was boasting, but it looks like Fang Chen has really tamed the three of you.


    How dare you call our master by his name! Victorious Buddhas eyes turned cold.


    He flitted toward Zhao Yan as if a sh of lightning and furiously pounded his fist on thetter.


    Great Mountain Tiger and Azure Sky didnt quietly sit still behind either. They surged forth and attacked Zhao Yans nks. Their priority right now was to save Fang Zhixue, and having lived in the forest, they didnt subscribe to the concept of having honorable 1-to-1 fights either.


    I wonder if you faes are more formidable, or my martial arts are more formidable.


    Zhao Yan remained perfectly calm. With a simple raise of his hand, a surge of longevity ki flowed out and formed an invisible barrier.


    This invisible barrier not only kept the three faes at bay but even ricocheted them back!


    The three faes crashed into a number of towering trees before they were finally able to stabilize their figures. Grimness flickered in their eyes. <em>How can this martial artist be so powerful? For many years we have cultivated, but this is the first time a martial artist was able to easily overpower our spirit ki! </em>


    Is that all youre capable of? Zhao Yan asked with a smile.


    He gently pressed his palm down.


    Boom!


    The longevity ki surged forth and crushed down on the three faes like a mountain.


    It was so heavy that nearby trees snapped under the pressure, and the surrounding earth sank three meters into the ground, forming a pit.


    The three faesid sprawled on the ground, crushed by the longevity ki. It was only fortunate that the longevity ki was unable to easily dissipate the spirit ki protecting them, so their injuries werent too severe despite being utterly overpowered.


    This was the difference between a cultivator and a martial artist!


    A martial artist could overpower a cultivator, but it was no easy feat for them to kill thetter.


    Fang Zhixue and Xia He walked out of the cavern, and what they saw shocked them.


    What incredible means Fang Zhixue gasped.


    She could tell that the other party hadnt lied to her, being able to exert such destructive prowess with ease. There was a good chance he was really a pinnacle Earth Profound realm martial artist.


    However, Fang Zhixue quickly snapped out of it and turned to the three faes. Juniors, are you all right?!


    W-we are fine the three faes replied with difficulty. Their expressions didnt look too good.


    Hm? Zhao Yan was intrigued. Given your strength, you shouldnt have been able to withstand my attack. Is this the means of a fae?

 Chapter 166: Seeking Ease of Mind

    Chapter 166: Seeking Ease of Mind


    Great Mountain Tiger wouldnt stop growling. <em>Big Brother, we cant speak in the human tongue. You rip him a new one on our behalf! </em>


    Azure Sky angrily hissed back as well. <em>Big Brother, we embarrassed ourselves huge this time. You need to hurl a threat or two back so that we dont look too bad. Our master is looking at us right now!</em>


    Victorious Buddha red at Zhao Yan, but he was unable to speak a word. There was no denying that they had lost. All this while, they thought that no one aside from Fang Chen could curb them in Great Xia.


    Now, it was clear that their world had been too small. Even human martial artists were capable of crushing them.


    You cant hurt them because they are protected by spirit ki, but you can only exert inner ki. Fang Chen walked over.


    Zhao Yans longevity ki couldnt stop Fang Chens footsteps. Thetter leisurely walked up to the three faes and lightly tapped his finger.


    The boundless longevity ki dissipated!


    Master! The three faes bowed in shame.


    Hes at pinnacle Earth Profound realm. Its normal for you to be subdued by him. You should be able to defeat him with ease once you manifest a few more immortal veins, Fang Chen said.


    Big brother! Fang Zhixue was overjoyed. <em>We are safe now that my big brother is here!</em>


    Imperial Duke Fang.


    Zhao Yan stared at Fang Chen for a short moment before slowly sping his fist and bowing. The way Fang Chen had dissipated his longevity ki earlier raised waves of shock within him.


    <em>Imperial Duke Fang is different from how I imagined him to be His means arent as simple as the rumors put them out to be. </em>


    Zhao Yan, I heard about your affairs. I didnt think there would be a pinnacle Earth Profound realm martial artist like you in Great Xia, Fang Chen said.


    My affairs? Zhao Yan smiled self-deprecatingly. How much could Imperial Duke Fang know about my affairs? Since you personally came here, Ill let you take Fang Zhixue away with you. However, I hope that you wont intervene in the affairs between me and the Auspicious King.


    Is that so? Fang Chen chuckled. A Longevity Ki martial artist like you do have the right to say such words but why dont you cross blows with this subordinate of mine first? Its not toote for you to say those words after you defeat him?


    He took out the Greenwood Puppet, and it quickly morphed into a middle-aged man that quietly stood beside him.


    His means of conjuring a human out of thin air baffled even Zhao Yan, let alone Xia He.


    You underestimate me, Imperial Duke Fang. You should be my opponent if we are to sh, Zhao Yan frowned.


    Fang Chen chuckled. He took the three faes with him and took a few steps back. The meaning of his gesture couldnt be clearer.


    Zhao Yan was silent for seconds before shaking his head. Lets get it over with.


    With a single step, he instantaneously appeared in front of the Greenwood Puppet. He thrust his palm forth, exerting an iparably powerful surge of longevity ki toward thetter.


    All the Greenwood Puppet did in response was headbutt Zhao Yans palm.


    Bam!


    The Greenwood Puppet retreated a few steps, but Zhao Yan did the same too.


    The results suggested that they were equally matched, but Zhao Yan was astounded. He sensed that his opponent was far weaker than him, beingparable to only an Aureate Ki martial artist at most.


    Yet, his opponent was shrouded by peculiar energy that wasnt aureate ki, and it had the power to curb his longevity ki.


    <em>Is this the spirit ki Fang Chen spoke about? </em>Zhao Yan was bewildered.


    As powerful as he was, he had never ventured into the pugilistic world, so there was much he was ignorant about. He was shocked beyond words to learn that there was energy in this world that could suppress his inner ki.


    The Greenwood Puppet didnt give Zhao Yan any time to think things through. It charged at thetter and dished out a barrage of powerful blows without paying heed to defense, as if it was a soulless puppet.


    Zhao Yan was forced to take a defensive position. He found that his longevity ki was almost useless against the Greenwood Puppet;. In contrast, the Greenwood Puppets attacks put him in apromising position.


    He identally sustained a fist to his chest, and the sheer pain resonated in his soul, refusing to dissipate.


    Is that an artifact? Victorious Buddha and the others exchanged gazes before looking at Fang Chen with even more respectful eyes than before. <em>To think that even our masters artifact possesses such frightening means. How powerful must our master be?</em>


    Fang Zhixue was initially worried that Fang Chen wouldnt be a match for Zhao Yan, but the current situation made her breathe a sigh of relief. She turned to Xia He and said, Dont worry, Little Sister Xia He. He clearly isnt my big brothers match.


    Big Sister Zhi Xue, can you tell Imperial Duke Fang not to hurt Big Brother Zhao Yan? H-he really isnt a bad person! Xia He said with concerned eyes.


    Fang Zhixue smiled. Rest assured, my big brother will go easy on him if he isnt a bad person. My big brother is a good judge of character.


    By now, Zhao Yan and the Greenwood Puppet had crossed more than a hundred blows. The Greenwood Puppet wasnt strong enough to defeat Zhao Yan, but Zhao Yan was also helpless against the nigh indestructible Greenwood Puppet. This resulted in a standstill.


    Enough. Fang Chen pped his hand.


    The Greenwood Puppet transformed into a whiff of smoke that disappeared in his sleeves.


    Zhao Yan was shocked beyond words.


    It took a moment before he snapped out of it and said, As expected of the much revered Imperial Duke Fang. I would have never believed that you are capable of such mystical means if I hadnt seen it with my own eyes. May I ask if this is still the means of a martial artist?


    It isnt martial arts, Fang Chen calmly replied.


    I see. Zhao Yan slowly nodded.


    I presume youre willing to speak now. Whats your goal for kidnapping the two of them? Are you exacting vengeance on Xia Song for not standing up for you? Fang Chen asked.


    I would have long made a move if vengeance is what I sought, Zhao Yan replied with augh. He looked at Fang Chen and suddenly bowed deeply. I only resorted to this underhanded move because I wanted to meet you, Imperial Duke Fang.


    Fang Zhixue was startled. <em>So hes after me, after all?</em>


    You could have looked for me at the Fang Manor, but you chose this solution, Fang Chen cidly pointed out.


    I didnt know what kind of person you are, and there is no point looking for you if you arent able to find this ce, Zhao Yan quietly replied.


    I dont like this. Fang Chen shook his head.


    He ordered Victorious Buddha to carry Fang Zhixue and Xia He before he turned around and left.


    Zhao Yan stared at their departing silhouettes in confusion. A secondter, a bitter smile formed on his face. He realized that he had angered Fang Chen. Letting out a deep sigh, he first bowed at the cavern behind him before quickly following Fang Chen.


    Why are you following me? Fang Chen asked. Youre a fugitive. Youll be executed if youre caught.


    I know. Zhao Yan nodded. Theres no point keeping my head if I cant wash away my grievances this time.


    Is there a need for that? The world is huge, and someone of your capabilities can thrive wherever you go, Fang Chen pointed out.


    I just want ease of mind, Zhao Yan replied.

 Chapter 167: Arresting the Culprit

    Chapter 167: Arresting the Culprit


    The group returned to the Fang Manor.


    Fang Zhixue was sent to undergo the spirit assessment. Xia He told Xia Song to take her back, but Xia Song intently stared at the half-blind Zhao Yan.


    Zhao Yan looked at Xia Song and coldly smiled. It has been a while, Brother Xia.


    It has indeed been a while, Xia Song replied with gritted teeth. I didnt expect you to be so underhanded.


    Underhanded? So be it, Zhao Yan nonchntly replied, unfazed by Xia Songs criticism.


    Fang Canghai and his wife spent quite a while in thought before finally figuring out the situation. <em>If that fellow who kidnapped our daughter and the Auspicious Kings Sixth Daughter is still alive, it would mean that Fang Chen hasnt found a reason to kill him yet.</em>


    Chener, well leave this matter to you, the two of them said before taking their leave.


    Xia Song hurriedly turned to Fang Chen and asked, Imperial Duke Fang, that man over there is Zhao Yan. He hasmitted many atrocities in the South Immortal Commandery. Why did you spare his life?


    He should go through a proper trial even if hes to be executed. It wouldnt do for me to undermine the judicial system. Take him away, Fang Chen said.


    Xia Song frowned. He could see that Zhao Yan was unharmed, which suggested that thetters strength was unimpaired. <em>We dont have the means to take a fully-abled Zhao Yan away with us.</em>


    Rest assured, I came here to end things once and for all. I wont flee, and I dont want to flee anymore, Zhao Yan impassively said.


    Xia Song was stunned.


    Minutester, Xia Song and Xia He got onto a horse. In Xia Songs hand was a long chain, which was linked to the shackles binding Zhao Yans hands.


    Master, that man is a powerful martial artist. His martial arts are bound to be formidable too, Victorious Buddha quietly told Fang Chen.


    Great Mountain Tiger nodded. Grar! <em>(We should steal it!)</em>


    Azure Sky agreed as well.


    Zhao Yan had embarrassed the three faes in front of Fang Chen.


    In particr, Azure Sky had just made a cultivation breakthrough and hadnt had a chance to prove herself yet when she was humiliated in front of her master. Due to that, she was filled with animosity toward Zhao Yan.


    Thats his fortuitous encounter, Fang Chen said. I dont have to stoop down to stealing from a criminal to obtain a formidable martial arts manual. All I have to do is to make a trip to a grade-8 or grade-7 state.


    Cultivators looked down on martial artists because they had the means to easily obtain their martial arts, not to mention immortal cultivation was superior to martial cultivation.


    In contrast, there was no martial artist who didnt covet the cultivators means of lengthening lifespans. For instance, the spirit spring just in front of the Fang Manor could lengthen lifespans, albeit mildly.


    Fang Chen might not look down on martial artists, but he still wouldnt pay much heed to a martial arts manual.


    Just then, a deep reverberation echoed from the Fang Manor.


    <em>Dong!</em>


    <em>Dong!</em>


    <em>Dong!</em>


    The tolls stopped at three, signifying that Fang Zhixue had inferior cultivation talent, though it was superior to Fang Cangyous. Fang Chen wasnt disappointed by the result, knowing that few people in the world were capable of cultivating.


    Often, talented buds lived their lives without a chance to be a cultivator.


    While Fang Zhixues cultivation talent might becking, she was already practicing the Purple Aura Form, and it helped that she could ess a huge supply of ki stones. That already put her ahead of many people.


    That was why luck was often an important factor for cultivators.


    Ja!


    Xia Song galloped on horseback, elerating faster and faster. He wanted to see how strong Zhao Yan was. Yet, no matter how fast he traveled, Zhao Yan continued walking with unhurried footsteps, easily keeping pace with him.


    Xia Song took a nce at him. <em>How did Zhao Yane to possess such powerful martial cultivation? He nearly starved to death in the past because he didnt have any food!</em>


    Slow down, big brother! What if Big Brother Zhao Yan cant catch up? Xia He anxiously reminded.


    Dont get angry at me over that scum! Xia Song bellowed.


    Xia He was indignant. I refuse to believe Big Brother Zhao Yan is such a person! Someone else must be behind that case!


    Zhao Yans eyes mellowed as if a ray of sunlight was slowly thawing his many years of frost.


    The evidence is already in ce. What you believe in doesnt matter. I dont me you since you were young and didnt know the details, but you shouldnt act on your emotions! Xia Song harrumphed.


    It didnt take long for them to arrive in the city.


    The guards at the city gates were delighted to see Xia Song and Xia He. Someone quickly rushed to the Auspicious King Manor to ry the good news.


    Hm? Why is there someone following the young master?


    His hands are shackled. Is he a bandit?


    But the surrounding bandits have already fled a while back due to the Profound Saber Sects case and the arrival of the Fang Manor.


    Regardless, its a good thing that the Sixth Princess is safe and sound. Hold on could that person be the Sixth Princess kidnapper?


    Ry the news! Zhao Yan, the criminal behind the vile case several years back, has been arrested! Xia Song loudly dered.


    His voice traveled far and wide.


    The crowd was taken aback. <em>Zhao Yan? </em>This name sounded foreign at first, but it didnt take long for it to click for them.


    Hes Zhao Yan?!


    Our young master is truly formidable to have arrested Zhao Yan!


    This is great!


    Many people rushed to the streets upon hearing the news, resulting in a congestion. Xia Song had no choice but to slow his pace.


    Smash him to death! That dastardly scoundrel deserves to be sliced to pieces! someone suddenly bellowed.


    A rotten tomato was hurled onto Zhao Yans face, but thetter didnt even blink in response.


    The infuriated civilians of the South Immortal Commandery proceeded to toss all kinds of rotten stuff that they previously didnt bear to throw away at Zhao Yan. In just a few moments, his body was covered with all kinds of awful stuff.


    Xia He shouted for them to stop, but there was not a person who could hear her amidst themotion.


    Xia Song couldnt stop them either. He could asionally turn around to look at Zhao Yan, afraid that he would lose his temper and hurt the civilians. Honestly speaking, he had zero confidence of subduing Zhao Yan if thetter went on a rampage.


    Fortunately, Zhao Yan quietly endured all of it, disying no inclination of fighting back. Even if someone punched and kicked him, he quietly endured their blows.


    A journey that should have only taken a couple of minutes ended up taking almost an hour before they finally reached the Auspicious King Manor. By then, many civilians and officials had already gathered in the area.


    The newly-appointedmandery chief went by the family name of Ouyang. He stood behind the Auspicious King along with Jue Panshi and a few other key appointment holders.


    Amidst the crowd was an old man dressed in schr robes. He had a long, snowy beard that reached his chest.


    Right as Zhao Yan appeared, a group of students suddenly rushed out from the crowd and red at him. Some of them even berated him. Their faces were puffed red, and their saliva flew everywhere.


    It was only then that Zhao Yans stoic expression finally loosened. He slowly assessed his ex-ssmates one by one, as if he was looking for something from them.


    It really is Zhao Yan Jue Panshi frowned.


    Zhao Yan had escaped from his hands back then, so he knew that the other party possessed exceptional means. It was truly baffling how Xia Song managed to capture Zhao Yan back.


    Master Chen, is it really Zhao Yan? the Auspicious King asked.


    The old man dressed in schr robes nodded. Yes, its him.


    Fellow countrymen, now that we have caught Zhao Yan, we shall review the case tomorrow. Youre wee to watch. For now, you may disperse, the Auspicious King cleared his throat and addressed the crowd.

 Chapter 168: Reviewing Again

    Chapter 168: Reviewing Again


    Your Highness, we cant allow that scum to escape again!


    Please be assured that he wont get away this time.


    Thatd be for the best.


    The civilians slowly scattered after receiving the Auspicious Kings reassurance.


    The surrounding area was filled with elites from the Valiant Defenders. As an additionalyer of security, Jie Panshi had even deployed his elite crossbowmen. They were ready to shoot down Zhao Yan if he made any suspicious moves.


    The Auspicious King slowly walked over, only to be stopped by Xia Song.


    Father, that shackle is only for show. He is astoundingly powerful. You shouldnt get too close lest he harm you.


    The crowd was bewildered to hear that.


    Young master, how did you capture him? Jue Panshi asked.


    The people gathered here were familiar with what Xia Song was capable of. Logically speaking, Xia Song shouldnt have been capable of capturing Zhao Yan alive


    Imperial Duke Fang has returned, Xia Song replied. He was the one who captured Zhao Yan.


    <em>Fang Chen? </em>Some people were delighted to hear that, but there were also a few who frowned.


    Fang Chen was a massive mountain that couldnt be overlooked in the South Immortal Commandery. Just the knowledge of his return was enough to leave some feeling so suffocated that they found it hard to breathe.


    Imperial Duke Fang didnt cripple his martial cultivation? the Auspicious King asked.


    He didnt. Xia Song shook his head.


    <em>Fang Chen was able to get Zhao Yan to obediently follow Xia Song back without crippling his martial cultivation? </em>The crowd was impressed by Fang Chens means. Even a vile criminal like that obediently listened to him.


    Zhao Yan was the one who kidnapped Xia He and Fang Zhixue? the Auspicious King asked with a suppressed voice.


    Xia Song nodded.


    The Auspicious King breathed a sigh of relief. <em>Fang Zhixue should have safely returned to the Fang Manor now, so our Auspicious King Manor wont be implicated by that matter. </em>


    He turned to Zhao Yan and suddenly took a cold tone, Zhao Yan, do you plead guilty?


    I am innocent, Zhao Yan calmly replied.


    Those words sparked criticisms and insults from the nearby students, but Zhao Yan wasnt fazed in the least.


    Zhao Yan, you have truly disappointed me. Master Chen stepped forward to look at Zhao Yan before letting out a small sigh and shaking his head.


    Master Chen. Zhao Yans expression finally faltered. I have nevermitted those vile deeds. Someone else is responsible for the murders. I have never done anything that would embarrass the school.


    Are you still going to deny it even now?


    Dont think that the evidence will suddenly disappear just because years have passed!


    It isnt enough for you to lose an eye! We should blind your other eye too so that youll finally confess to your crimes!


    A beast cloaked in human skin! You have thoroughly embarrassed our school!


    The students of the school berated Zhao Yan.


    There was one who was the fiercest in his insults. His face was reddened, and he looked particrly agitated. After scolding Zhao Yan, he turned to the Auspicious King and bowed. Your Highness, I implore you to execute Zhao Yan right away so that those innocent women can rest in peace. Otherwise, our South Immortal Commandery will know no peace!


    Brother Yu is right!


    Your Highness, please execute Zhao Yan on the spot!


    A few other students stood forward too.


    Some of the officials heard their pleas and spoke up too, We have already concluded the case back then. The evidence was overwhelming, so there is no reason for us to review it once more. I dont think it would be wise for us to drag it out lest Zhao Yan escape once more. Why dont we execute him today?


    Master Chen quietly sighed. It subtly ryed his agreement, albeit a resigned one.


    Zhao Yan calmly looked at the crowd with faint disdain in his eyes.


    In my view Jue Panshi suddenly spoke up. There was a slight pause of contemtion before he continued, we should review the case once more.


    His words surprised the crowd.


    The students looked at Jue Panshi with raging eyes. <em>These Valiant Defenders always insist on acting againstmon good. What have they ever done for the people?</em>


    The officials were baffled.


    Jue Panshi was the one who judged the case years ago, and he was the one who made the verdict to execute Zhao Yan after just a few days. Some officials questioned whether he was being too reckless, but he insisted on having his way.


    <em>Why did Jue Panshi suddenly change his attitude? Zhao Yan had embarrassed Jue Panshi by escaping right under his nose back then. There was a period of time when Jue Panshi couldnt even walk with his head up. By right, Jue Panshi should be filled with anger toward Zhao Yan. </em>


    Zhao Yan looked at Jue Panshi with a hint of mirth in his eyes. <em>Things have indeed changed. </em>


    The Auspicious King spent a moment in thought when he suddenly realized something. He first looked at Jue Panshi, followed by Zhao Yan, before voicing his verdict too, Indeed. Years have passed since. We should review the case to be thorough.


    The newly-appointed Commandery Chief Ouyang dared not oppose the two veterans in the South Immortal Commandery. He could only obediently nod in agreement.


    Jue Panshi instructed his centurions to take custody of Zhao Yan.


    It was during then that a centurion suddenly shouted out loud, drawing the attention of the nearby crowd. He has five sword wounds on his body! Some of them are severe wounds that nearly reached his organs!


    The crowd couldnt believe what they had just heard. They rushed over to take a look, and they saw five ring wounds on Zhao Yans body. An ordinary person would have long died from those wounds.


    Yet, Zhao Yan maintained a nonchnt expression and a dignified posture.


    The crowd was baffled.


    Xia Song asked with a frown, Why didnt you retaliate? Do you remember who wounded you?


    They are just a bunch ofmoners, Zhao Yan impassively replied. I wont die from these wounds. You need not be so worried.


    Whos worried about you? Xia Song sneered. He turned to Jue Panshi and said, Lord Jue, you should bring him over to the prison and have a physician check his injuries, lest he drop dead before we review the case. Others might use us of privately punishing him otherwise.


    Understood. Jue Panshi nodded.


    He and his men quickly escorted Zhao Yan to their barracks.


    Commandery Chief Ouyang, go and retrieve Zhao Yans case scrolls. Well gather together tonight to go over the case before judging Zhao Yan tomorrow, the Auspicious King said.


    Yes, Your Highness. Commandery Chief Ouyang nodded before leaving with the other officials.


    Master Chen, you shoulde over tomorrow, the Auspicious King said.


    Master Chen nodded. He was about to say something when a student stepped forward and sped his fist, saying, Your Highness, Master Chen, Zhao Yan has gone to great lengths to conceal the fact that hes a martial artist. I fear he is up to something. Could he be nning to harm some of us during tomorrows judgment?


    It was the student whom the others addressed as Brother Yu. He had decent facial features and an upright posture. Despite being dressed in schr robes, he had a generals disposition.


    Whats your suggestion? the Auspicious King asked.


    Its not toote to review the case after crippling his martial cultivation, Brother Yu said.


    Regarding that, the Auspicious King calmly replied, Imperial Duke Fang was the one who captured him. Dont you think that Imperial Duke Fang had refrained from crippling his martial cultivation because he didnt think that Zhao Yan could threaten us?


    Brother Yu was taken aback.


    If Zhao Yan truly sought violence, what happened earlier would have been a good pretext for him to make a move, Master Chen added. Yu Zhang, youre overthinking things. Zhao Yan might have returned with a regretful heart, hoping to conclude this matter once and for all.


    Yu Zhang fell silent.


    Master Chen left with his students afterward. Simrly the Auspicious King brought Xia Song and Xia He back to their manor.


    Father, I think Yu Zhangs words make sense. Itll be safer for us to cripple Zhao Yans martial cultivation, Xia Song said.


    The Auspicious King eyed him. Have you stopped to wonder why Imperial Duke Fang neither killed him nor crippled his martial cultivation?


    Father, youre saying that Xia Song was astonished.

 Chapter 169: Listening In

    Chapter 169: Listening In


    The following day, a huge crowd of civilians had already gathered outside the magistrate court even though the gates were still closed.


    As Zhao Yan was brought into the magistrate court, the crowd began hurling curses and insults. Some of the victims families even attempted to march forward to pummel Zhao Yan, only to be stopped by the Valiant Defenders.


    Jue Panshi, who had been walking alongside Zhao Yan, ruefully remarked, These people will skin you alive if you cant prove your innocence today.


    Chiliarch Jue, that was not how you treated me back then. Zhao Yan eyed Jue Panshi with his remaining eye.


    Jue Panshi sheepishly smiled. Imperial Duke Fang had the Auspicious Kings First Son escort you here without crippling your martial cultivation. Its clear to me what he means by that.


    Zhao Yan immediately grasped the meaning behind Jue Panshis words. He was first startled before revealing a bitter smile. <em>So Fang Chen has already nned this far ahead </em>


    Zhao Yan, were you really not the one behind their murders? Jue Panshi suddenly asked with a grim voice just as they were about to step into the magistrate court.


    Yes, I didnt kill them. Zhao Yan let out a deep breath.


    He knew what that question meant. For once, he finally had someone on his side. As long as someone was willing to fight for him, there might be a way to turn this case around!


    Many officials were already gathered inside the magistrate court. This case was one of thergest in recent years. If they failed to properly deal with it, they could risk evoking the civilians ire.


    The southern region was a ce that revered martial arts, after all. Even a minor riot by ordinary civilians would be a huge headache for them.


    The Auspicious King took the center seat. Commandery Chief Ouyang took the seat left of him. Following him were Master Chen, the schools students, and the South Immortal Commanderys officials.


    When Zhao Yan was brought in under Jue Panshis custody, the crowd immediately turned to him with hostile eyes. However, Zhao Yan remained nonchnt.


    Many civilians were gathered at the magistrate courts entrance, awaiting the Auspicious King tomence the trial.


    Kneel, Criminal Zhao Yan, Commandery Chief Ouyang said.


    Zhao Yan eyed Commandery Chief Ouyang, followed by the Auspicious King, before slowly lowering himself to his knees.


    The Auspicious King cleared his throat. He looked at the case scroll, followed by Zhao Yan, and just as he was about to speak up, amotion suddenly broke out outside.


    The crowd frowned.


    The Auspicious King eyed Commandery Chief Ouyang, and thetter quickly rose to his feet and shouted, Whos causing a fuss in the court?


    The crowd split open, and an old man lying on a stretcher was slowly carried in. The old man was breathing shallow, and it didnt seem like he had long to live.


    Your Highness, milords, this old man is Wang Xiaohuas grandfather. He fell ill after Xiaohua died, and hes already on his deathbed. He insisted on seeing that demon, Zhao Yan, being brought to justice. Please pardon us! One of the men, who carried the stretcher in, sped his fist toward the Auspicious King and the others.


    Whispers could be heard from the crowd.


    Wang Xiaohua was the youngest victim of that case, being only five years old when she was killed. The surrounding civilians clenched their fists in anger as they remembered the details of the case, and they began chanting for Zhao Yan to be immediately executed.


    Xiaohua, grandpa will finally witness the death of the demon who killed you. I hope that you can rest in peace in heaven! the old man stared intently as Zhao Yan as he murmured.


    The old mans arrival further fanned the civilians resolution. The atmosphere was so heated that it felt like they would thrash the magistrate court if Zhao Yan wasnt executed today.


    Hmph! Zhao Yan, you refused to spare even a five-year-old girl. Youre less than a beast. Its our schools misfortune to have a student like you. How can we raise our heads before the rest of the world? Yu Zhang coldly harrumphed as he looked at Zhao Yan in disdain. Therell be no justice in the world if you dont die today!


    We demand justice! the other students cheered.


    Silence! Jue Panshi roared. He pointed his finger at the students and bellowed, Whether Zhao Yan dies or not depends on the result of this review. If Zhao Yan is innocent, the one to be executed shall be someone else. How dare you try to rile up the crowd with your chants?


    Zhao Yan is innocent?!


    The students stared at Jue Panshi in disbelief. Someone even whispered, How much did Zhao Yan pay this Chiliarch Jue?


    Commandery Chief Ouyang and the other officials eyed Jue Panshi assessingly.


    Enough, the Auspicious King interjected. He looked straight at the crowd and addressed them, There are suspicions surrounding this case, and that is why we are reviewing it today. Until wee to a verdict, Zhao Yan is just a suspect. After all, no one saw Zhao Yan killing the victims with their own eyes.


    Its a formality to bring out past evidence and review them. I was passing by the area when I heard themotion, so I decided to listen in. I hope none of you mind.


    Fang Chen, together with Xu Ge and the others, walked out from the crowd and headed to the front of the magistrate court. His arrival surprised many. Quite a few officials quickly rose to their feet, not daring to sit down until they were given the word.


    Ah, its Imperial Duke Fang. Id be more confident dealing with this case if Imperial Duke Fang listens in. Here, take a seat.


    The Auspicious King stood up to wee Fang Chen before ushering him to Commandery Chief Ouyangs seat. Due to that, Commandery Chief Ouyang was left standing awkwardly by the side, but fortunately, one of the officials tactfully gave up his seat to him.


    Imperial Duke Fang is here?!


    It really is Imperial Duke Fang! This is great!


    Theres no way Zhao Yan can escape now that Imperial Duke Fang is here!


    The civilians were overjoyed.


    Zhao Yans impassive face shook a little upon seeing Fang Chen. His lips quivered a little, but he decided against saying a word in the end.


    Youre the South Mountain Schools Master Chen? Fang Chen sped his fist toward Master Chen and asked.


    Master Chen politely returned the gesture. I have long heard about you, Imperial Duke Fang. Its my honor to meet you today. Please, theres no need to be too courteous with me.


    The students behind him quietly eyed Fang Chenthere was admiration, respect, and excitement in their eyes. They didnt think a day woulde where they would share the same space as Fang Chen.


    Youre too polite. Fang Chen smiled. He then turned to the Auspicious King and said, Your Highness, why dont you go through the evidence you have gathered? Lets see how Zhao Yan pleads his case if he is truly responsible for those murders.


    The Auspicious King nodded.


    He began announcing the case details, such as the specific day and hour that they discovered the corpses buried in Zhao Yans courtyard, as well as the person who found it. Other than that, he also announced the time each of the victims went missing.


    All of these details were decided through careful cross-examination, so it was unlikely for anything to go wrong there.


    The first evidence that led to Zhao Yans suspicion in the case was someone noticing him carrying female essories in his cloth bag. It was this crucial piece of evidence that led to the Valiant Defenders zooming in on him, whichter led to the unearthing of the corpses.


    Zhao Yan, what do you have to say about the evidence? the Auspicious King asked.


    Zhao Yan quietly stared at Fang Chen, not saying a word.


    Fang Chen chuckled. Arent you a meticulous man? If you have your suspicions, you should know how to root them up.


    I do have my suspicions, but that person has disappeared, Zhao Yan said.


    <em>Disappeared? </em>The crowd was bewildered. <em>Who has disappeared?</em>


    Huang Xin, the student who imed to have seen female essories in my cloth bag, has disappeared for many years, Zhao Yan said.


    Master Chen frowned. Huang Xin has backed out of the school and headed to the north to live with his rtives.


    Master Chen, I have been to the north. Huang Xin isnt with his rtives, and his rtives haven''t met him at all, Zhao Yan replied.


    How can that be? Master Chen was taken aback.


    You must have killed Huang Xin! Yu Zhang sneered.


    Such an important eye-witness has disappeared? Fang Chen stroked his lower jaw. He shook his head with a smile. Thatplicates things.


    The Auspicious King looked at Fang Chen. Imperial Duke Fang, do you have suggestions as to how we should proceed?

 Chapter 170: Reasonable Doubt

    Chapter 170: Reasonable Doubt


    What suggestions could I have? Our priority is to look for the eye-witness, dead or alive. Until we find him, we will never be able to conclude this case, Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    The surroundings fell eerily silent.


    The civilians standing at the entrance were stunned and enraged, but they dared not to voice theirints, for the one who had said those words was the Xia Imperial Duke, Great Xias one and only transcendental-grade noble!


    The Auspicious King fell into deep thought.


    Commandery Chief Ouyang and the other officials dared not to carelessly run their mouths, given that both the Auspicious King and Fang Chen were here.


    The purging of the southern regions Nine Commanderies was fresh in their minds; many of their colleagues had been captured and executed. Thest thing they wanted was for it to happen to them too!


    Secondster, Yu Zhang suddenly turned to Fang Chen and sped his fist, Imperial Duke Fang, I am the South Mountain Schools Yu Zhang. If you permit, Id like to say a few words regarding this case.


    Go ahead. Fang Chen nodded.


    The crowd turned to look at Yu Zhang.


    Upon catching everyones attention, Yu Zhang slowly spoke up, This case has been hanging for years now since Zhao Yan escaped under Chiliarch Jues watch. The victims are unable to rest in peace, and their families are still awaiting justice. They want to see Zhao Yan receiving the punishment he deserves.


    Some of the victims families have passed away in the meantime, and there are some who are struggling to hold on despite being on the verge of death. All of them simply wish to see karma befalling Zhao Yan. I dont think its wise to allow Zhao Yan to live on over such trivialities.


    Jue Panshi red at Yu Zhang. <em>Its one thing for you to speak up, but why do you have to arrow me too? Just you wait!</em>


    The civilians nodded in agreement upon hearing Yu Zhangs words. Whispers voicing their agreement could be heard.


    Trivialities? Fang Chen asked with a raised eyebrow.


    Yu Zhang calmly exined, It was indeed Huang Xin who discovered one of the victims essories in Zhao Yans cloth bag, but hes just an informant whereas the key lies in the essory. Whether Huang Xin is here or not doesnt dispute the evidences legitimacy. It was also this trail that led the Valiant Defenders to Zhao Yans house, where they found the victims bodies.


    He paused for a brief second before adding, Regardless of whether Huang Xin is here or not, the evidence is already in ce. Theres no disputing the case.


    He then turned to the Auspicious King and asked, Your Highness, may I know if the evidence is still in the magistrate court?


    It is. The Auspicious King nodded as he lifted a wooden brooch on the evidence tray.


    Seeing that, the crowd nodded in agreement. The fact that one of the victims essories was in Zhao Yans cloth bag should be enough to cast suspicion on Zhao Yan.


    Yu Zhang then turned back to Fang Chen and asked questioningly, Imperial Duke Fang, the evidence is in ce. The rage of our South Immortal Commanderys civilians will not be quelled if you dont execute Zhao Yan today! People might ask why you are protecting Zhao Yan.


    Audacious! The Auspicious King and the others berated Yu Zhang.


    Master Chen kept his head lowered and didnt say a word.


    Yu Zhang paid no heed to the reprimand. His eyes remained firmly locked on Fang Chen.


    As expected of the South Mountain Schools chief student. Hes speaking up for us civilians!


    Mister Yu dared to speak such words even in front of Imperial Duke Fang! Hes truly a brave person with the peoples interest in heart. Itll be our blessing if he bes an official for our South Immortal Commandery.


    The civilians murmured among themselves.


    Even the old man on the stretcher also spoke with difficulty, Mister Yu, if Zhao Yan is executed today, Ill put up a token of you in my house and pray for you every day.


    Everyone, I just cannot stand watching such injustice in the world. What will be of this world if we spare Zhao Yan after what he has done? Yu Zhang sped his fist toward the sky as he spoke with an imposing air.


    The South Mountain Schools students were won over by Yu Zhangs guts.


    Youre the South Mountain Schools chief student? Fang Chen casually asked.


    Yu Zhang was startled by the question, but he quickly nodded in response. Yes, I am.


    Fang Chen nced at Zhao Yan. If my memory doesn''t fail me, I believe the South Mountain Schools chief student is chosen via an election, and the chief student will receive the principals rmendation to enter the capital and be an official.


    These people are given an edge over their peers, starting off as a grade-5 official. Thats one of the privileges orded to the southern region. Its no easy feat to survive in the southern region in view of its climate, and those who be schrs here are usually cream of the crop.


    Given your wits, Zhao Yan, why didnt you be the chief student back then?


    Yu Zhangs eyes widened upon hearing those words, but he quickly calmed and replied before Zhao Yan could say a word, Zhao Yanmitted this major crime ahead of the election, or else he would have be the chief disciple. Its a pity that hes a beast cloaked in human skin!


    In other words, you benefited from this case? Fang Chen asked.


    <em>Benefited from this case? </em>The crowd spent seconds pondering upon those words before their eyes widened in astonishment. They quickly turned to Yu Zhang with doubtful eyes.


    Indeed, Yu Zhang frankly admitted to it. It was only due to this case that I had a chance to be the chief disciple. However, that has nothing to do with this case. Imperial Duke Fang, Im afraid youre beating on the wrong bush.


    Cough cough! Master Chen coughed. He looked at the crowd and said, Milords, Yu Zhang joined our South Mountain School at a young age. He might not be as intelligent as Zhao Yan, but he isntcking either. Even if Zhao Yan bes the chief disciple, I would have still given Yu Zhang a rmendation to enter the capital as an official.


    He has no reason to kill those innocent women and frame Zhao Yan over such a mere title. That wouldnt make sense at all.


    Then, Master Chen turned to Fang Chen and said, Imperial Duke Fang, I have considered simr possibilities before, but I shrugged them off after careful consideration.


    Indeed! Senior Yu wouldnt frame Zhao Yan over such superficial titles!


    Just imagine the sheer effort required to put this off. He would be putting himself a great risk! Senior Yu is a kind person who cant even bear to kill an ant, let alone kill a person!


    With Senior Yus intelligence, hes bound to be an official in the capital, a grade-6 official at least if not a grade-5. He has a bright future ahead. Theres no reason for him to frame Zhao Yan over a mere chief student position!


    The civilians thought those words made sense. A normal person wouldnt go so far to kill several women just to frame their ssmate, even if they could benefit out of it.


    Fang Chen chuckled in response and said, Theres something in this world known as an impulsive crime. Never underestimate what a person is capable of in the heat of a moment. There are times when a person abandons all heed to logic just to achieve a single goal.


    What if the chief student position is just a bonus, and his goal is to kill Zhao Yan? That makes more sense, right? And the reason why he wants to kill Zhao Yan doesnt have to be anything huge. It could be something as minor as Zhao Yan identally stepping on his foot, Zhao Yan saying the wrong things, or even because he doesnt like Zhao Yans appearance.


    The crowd fell into deep thought, including the Auspicious King, Commandery Chief Ouyang, and Jue Panshi.


    What Fang Chen had proposed was just a spection, but it overturned their assumption of criminal intent. At the very least, they recognized that a criminal need not have a rational reason tomit a crime.

 Chapter 171: Good Luck

    Chapter 171: Good Luck


    Of course, what I have proposed is a conjecture. Whenever we review a case, we should always boldly specte on the possibilities, then confirm or disconfirm these possibilities, so that we leave no stones unturned, Fang Chen said with a smile.


    We want to hold the criminal whomitted those vile murders ountable, but more than that, we want to ensure that we have caught the right person. What do you think?


    <em>Conjecture? </em>The crowd slowly snapped out of their daze.


    The Auspicious King looked at Fang Chen and asked with a suppressed voice, Youre saying that Yu Zhang is one of the suspects too?


    Yu Zhang was startled. He instinctively clenched his fists while staring fixedly at Fang Chen.


    Naturally. Fang Chen smiled. Its not just Yu Zhang but everyone who had ties with Zhao Yan, be it good or bad. Xia Song used to be close to Zhao Yan, right? That puts him under suspicion as well.


    The Auspicious Kings face darkened.


    Commandery Chief Ouyang looked at Xia Song with a frown.


    Xia Song was startled to hear himself being implicated in the case too. He stared at Fang Chen with stupefied eyes.


    That being said, there are different degrees of suspicion too. The suspicion on Xia Song is rtively lighter, so lets begin with the major suspects first, Fang Chen said. Yu Zhang, right? Whats your rtionship with Huang Xin? I advise you to be honest, for the Valiant Defenders will conduct a cross-reference on your testimony.


    Preposterous! Master Chen angrily flung his sleeves and stood up. He red at Fang Chen with glowering eyes. Imperial Duke Fang, its embarrassing enough that a depraved man like Zhao Yan came from our South Mountain School, so how can you interrogate our chief student like a criminal too?!


    Master Chen, Imperial Duke Fang is proposing a conjecture. If Yu Zhang is innocent, you can be assured that Imperial Duke Fang wont wrong him, the Auspicious King said.


    Commandery Chief Ouyang and the others also advised Master Chen to step down. They secretly nced at Fang Chen, fearing that thetter would lop off the old schrs head in a moment of fury.


    Fang Chen didnt say a word, but Xu Ge sneered, You seem determined to hinder us from investigating this case. Whats wrong? Conscience-stricken?


    Master Chen slowly calmed down, but rage lingered on his face. He scoffed at Xu Ges words, saying, Me, conscience-stricken? Very well! I shall sit back down, but lets see whates out of this interrogation then!


    Master Chen, you can be assured that I have nothing to do with this matter, Yu Zhang said with aposed smile. He turned to Fang Chen and replied, Imperial Duke Fang, I was on close terms with Huang Xin back then.


    Since you were on close terms, where do you think he is right now? Fang Chen asked.


    He retired from the school due to personal affairs. I didnt keep in contact with him, so I dont know where he is, either. Yu Zhang shook his head.


    There was a brief pause, and a faint sneer emerged on his lips. I have long heard of Imperial Duke Fangs astounding means. I wonder if you could root Huang Xin out so that I can prove my innocence. Otherwise, I hope that you can listen to the voice of reason and execute Zhao Yan based on the overwhelming evidence against him instead of siding with him.


    The crowd frowned.


    If Fang Chen insisted on protecting Zhao Yan despite not finding Huang Xin, his reputation in the southern region would fall to the gutters. None of the other officials would have dared to make such a bet, knowing that it would be impossible for them to establish themselves in the southern region once they lost the peoples support.


    Imperial Duke Fang, Ill have my men search for Huang Xin right now. For the time being, why dont we postpone this trial for a few days? Jue Panshi stood up and sped his fist.


    Curses echoed from the entrance. Some people were hurling insults, whereas the others were speaking sarcastically.


    However, Jue Panshi wasnt fazed in the least. He was prepared to take Zhao Yan back to the Valiant Defenders barracks as soon as Fang Chen gave the word.


    However, a conspicuous voice suddenly echoed above themotion. Step aside, I have a matter I need to talk to Imperial Duke Fang about.


    <em>This is Seven Profound Saber Huangfu Jies voice?!</em>


    The Auspicious King and the others were taken aback. They quickly turned their heads over, and indeed, Huangfu Jie was making his way through the crowd with a few other people.


    Yu Zhang frowned. <em>What is the Profound Saber Sects Huangfu Jie doing here? What does a martial artist of the pugilistic world have to do with this case?</em>


    Huangfu Jie walked up to Fang Chen with his group. He first bowed to Fang Chen before saying with a gleeful smile, Imperial Duke Fang, I have found the person you asked me to look for.


    The crowd was taken aback. <em>Fang Chen has already tapped into his connections with the pugilistic world to look for Huang Xin?</em>


    The Auspicious King examined the group who hade with Huangfu Jie, trying to figure out which one was Huang Xin. Master Chen did the same too. Only Yu Zhang remainedposed, not bothering to take a look at all.


    My luck is not bad. Fang Chen smiled.


    A man in his thirties stepped forward and greeted Fang Chen with a sped fist, Imperial Duke Fang, I am Wu Zhanghuan, a disciple of the South Immortal Commanderys Flying Crane Sect.


    <em>Flying Crane Sects Wu Zhanghuan?</em>


    The crowd was getting more confused.


    The Flying Crane Sect is a minor sect in the South Immortal Commandery. They usually maintained a low profile, so there was not much attention on them. It was hard to imagine how the Flying Crane Sect was involved in this case. <em></em>


    I thought Imperial Duke Fang had found Huang Xin, Yu Zhang replied with a hint of sarcasm.


    Imperial Duke Fang, how is the Flying Crane Sect involved in this? the Auspicious King asked.


    Fang Chen chuckled. I couldnt sleepst night, so I flipped through the case scroll


    The crowd was baffled. They looked at Fang Chens grayish-white eyes. <em>Flipped through the case scroll? How can a blind man flip through the case scrolls? Ah! Fang Chens subordinate must have read out the case details for him.</em>


    However, this showed that Fang Chen had reviewed the casest night, signaling that he was concerned about this case too. This prompted the crowd to take another look at Zhao Yan.


    <em>Why is Imperial Duke Fang so concerned about a mere criminal?</em>


    I did notice Huang Xin while looking through the case, but I dont think he would be around anymore, Fang Chen said with a smile. So, I asked Huangfu Jie to dispatch his sect members to look around and see if theres any news concerning Huang Xin.


    The crowd turned grim.


    It might not have sounded like anything much, but they could imagine the huge operation that had gone onst night. The Profound Saber Sect likely approached all of the major powers in the South Immortal Commandery in the span of a night.


    This was a feat that even the Auspicious King was incapable of.


    Tell me whats your rtionship with Huang Xin, Fang Chen asked Wu Zhanghuan.


    Wu Zhanghuan took a deep breath before replying, Actually, I dont have any direct ties with Huang Xin, but years ago, shortly after Zhao Yans case, I took in a pregnant woman.


    <em>A pregnant woman? </em>The crowd was baffled.


    Only Yu Zhang was startled. His heart began beating fast, though he tried to control his expression so as to not let anything slip.


    However, Zhao Yan looked at Yu Zhang with contemtive eyes. As a pinnacle Earth Profound realm martial artist, he could hear Yu Zhangs heartbeat loud and clear like the toll of a bell.


    This pregnant woman was severely injured; she took a sword to her abdomen. I thought that she was a goner when I took her back to the Flying Crane Sect, but she surprisingly held on and even gave birth to a daughter, Wu Zhanghuan said.


    What does that have anything to do with this case? Is she one of the victims? Master Chen asked with a frown.


    Wu Zhanghuan looked at Master Chen and calmly replied, That woman told me that she had already sworn her life to a schr, but that schr offended a powerful individual, and that person sent people after their lives. That schr is Huang Xin from South Mountain School!


    Boom!


    It was as if a bolt of lightning had struck everyone present. If someone had gone to that extent to silence Huang Xin, the chances were that there was something amiss about this case!

 Chapter 172: Don’t Do It If You Don’t Want Others to Know

    Chapter 172: Don¡¯t Do It If You Don¡¯t Want Others to Know


    The Auspicious Kings expression tightened up. He gestured for Wu Zhanghuan to continue with his story.


    Wu Zhanghuan nodded. That woman told me that Huang Xin sensed that he was going to be silenced after helping one of the powerful figures in the school with a favor, so he wanted to flee with her. However, they were attacked while making their getaway.


    This matter is rted to Zhao Yans case because Huang Xin told that woman that the task involved him cing a wooden brooch into Zhao Yans cloth bag!


    An uproar broke out amidst the crowd. <em>Doesnt this mean that Zhao Yan was framed? But who was the one who framed Zhao Yan then? </em>


    By instinct, the crowd turned to look at Yu Zhang. Yu Zhangs face turned pale.


    Zhao Yan trembled in excitement, such that his aura billowed uncontrobly. It was only when Fang Chen nced at him that he slowly calmed down.


    He knew that there was no need for him to worry anymoreFang Chen had taken care of everything!


    Your wordsck credence. How can we know you arent weaving a huge lie to acquit Zhao Yan of his crime? Yu Zhang spoke up.


    Thats right! the students eximed in agreement.


    I dont believe Huang Xin would frame his fellow ssmate for his own interest, Master Chen spoke up. Wu Zhanghuan, your words have serious consequences. If theres any falsehood in your words, Ill report this matter to the capital and have them eradicate your Flying Crane Sect! We, schrs, might be incapable of martial arts, but we wont stand still as others nder us!


    Wu Zhanghuan was intimidated by those words. He instinctively nced at Huangfu Jie and saw thetter standing calm and confident. That bolstered his courage.


    He spent a moment in thought before finally continuing on, I have taken that woman as my wife. Let her be the judge of whether Im lying or not. Right, she also said that Huang Xin didnt know that that wooden brooch would bring such a cmity upon Zhao Yan. He thought that it was just a prank from a fellow ssmate to sully Zhao Yans reputation. It was already toote for regrets by the time he heard Zhao Yan was apprehended by the authorities.


    Its a pity he was implicated in this. Zhao Yan suddenly sighed. He often had a frown on his face back then. Im guessing it might be because he has sworn his life to someone, but he, like me, had no money and name to his name, so he was distressed that he didnt have the means to raise a family. If only I knew about this earlier


    Just then, a sobbing sound could be heard.


    The crowd turned over and saw a woman dressed in simple clothes hesitantly walking in with a girl who was around three to four years of age.


    The woman was crying. She looked at Zhao Yan with guilt-ridden eyes as she said, M-Mister Zhao, we did you a great injustice! You suffered such a great grievance for so many years


    Ah!


    The crowd assessed the woman. <em>So, this is the woman who swore her life to Huang Xin butter married her savior, Wu Zhanghuan?</em>


    Its you Zhao Yan widened his eyes in realization.


    Is she Miss Zihe from the Jade Emerald Pce? Xia Yan eximed.


    That enlightened the crowd to the womans background. They finally understood why she and Huang Xin could only privately swear their lives to each other It was because this woman was from a brothel!


    Reputation was extremely important to schrs. If it became known that Huang Xin, a student of the South Mountain School, married a woman from a brothel and even had a child together, his future would be ruined!


    Mister Zhao, he made a grievous mistake because of me, a prostitute, and he paid for it with his life. You suffered for so many years, while the true beast cloaked in human skin roams free from the reach of thew The woman was filled with self-reproach as she said those words.


    All of a sudden, she pointed her finger at Yu Zhang and hollered, You! You hypocrite! You were the one who killed those innocent women! You were the one who ordered Huang Xin to put that wooden brooch into Mister Zhaos cloth bag! You killed Huang Xin and framed Mister Zhao!


    Yu Zhangs face turned pale as he staggered two steps back.


    The Auspicious King and the others turned to look at Yu Zhang. They didnt expect Fang Chen to hit the nail on the head. The real culprit was not Zhao Yan but the South Mountain Schools chief student, Yu Zhang!


    The civilians plunged into silence. Disbelief, confusion, and shock could be seen reflected in their eyes, but those quickly morphed into unstoppable wrath.


    Yu Zhang had taken everyone in the South Immortal Commandery for a ride!


    The victims families trembled with rage. As if it was not enough for them to lose their close kin, they learned that they had been cursing the wrong person all this time!


    Master Chens face turned pale. His lips quivered, and all of a sudden, he spewed fresh blood.


    Dont you malign me! Several emotions clouded Yu Zhangs face. In the end, he gritted his teeth and roared at the woman, You said that you have sworn your life to Huang Xinhow can you prove that? What would be of Great Xiasw if a random woman is allowed to strut into the magistrate court and utter whatever gibberish she wants?


    At this point, Fang Chen suddenly sighed. Theres indeed no evidence to prove that this woman has sworn her life to Huang Xin, and theres no way to verify that her testimony is true.


    The crowd was stunned. <em>Why did Fang Chen suddenly change his attitude?</em>


    Yu Zhang was overjoyed to hear that. Imperial Duke Fang, your words ring true!


    Zhao Yans face turned grim, but he continued to hold faith in Fang Chen. The womans arrival in the magistrate court was proof of that!


    But I thought of a problemst night, Fang Chen suddenly said. If Zhao Yan isnt the culprit, and the culprit is still roaming scot-free in the South Immortal Commandery is there a chance that hes stillmitting such crimes?


    When I reviewed the case scrolls, I cant help but think that the culprit is a beast who relies on such cruel means to vent his perverse desires. What he did to the victims isnt just a simple act of murder and framinghe appears to relish in the process too. If thats the case, theres a high chance that more innocent women had died in his hands.


    This also suggests that the culprit is a very careful man, and its unlikely that anyone would suspect him too.


    After Zhao Yan became a scapegoat for his crime, theres a good chance that the culprit might be ovee with glee and go even further to vent his perverse desires. The failure to indict him might have lulled him into a sense of security, convincing him that no one else would think that hes the culprit anymore.


    Those words left the crowd with ominous feelings in their hearts.


    Imperial Duke Fang are you saying that the culprit has been hurting more innocent women over thest few years? the Auspicious King asked hoarsely.


    If Fang Chen was right, and such a thing happened in his fief, right under his watch, he would have to take huge responsibility for it.


    Indeed. Once we find these victims, the evidence will follow, Fang Chen said. If it''s convenient with all of you, allow me to take you somewhere.


    The crowd gasped. Yu Zhangsplexion turned increasingly awful.


    Imperial Duke Fang could it be that you already know who the culprit is?! the Auspicious King asked.

 Chapter 173: I Am Humiliating You. What About It?

    Chapter 173: I Am Humiliating You. What About It?


    The crowd followed Fang Chen in droves.


    Jue Panshi ordered his men to keep a close eye on Yu Zhang lest thetter escape.


    Yu Zhangs face turned pale, and his face further copsed when he realized that Fang Chen wasnt heading to his manor.


    Soon, the crowd also sensed that something was amiss. The Auspicious King couldnt help but ask, Imperial Duke Fang, isnt this the direction of the South Mountain School?


    Zhao Yan, who was agitated earlier, slowly calmed down, as his eyes gleamed in contemtion.


    Fang Chen simply smiled in response and gestured for them to keep up.


    Minutester, the crowd arrived at the school.


    Master Chen slowly made his way up to Fang Chen under his students support and asked, Imperial Duke Fang, are you implying that our school has important evidence regarding that case?


    When did I say that, Master Chen? Fang Chen asked.


    Master Chen shook his head and replied, Indeed, you have never said that. Its a conjecture on my part.


    Imperial Duke Fang, stop keeping us in suspense, the Auspicious King said. More and more civilians are gathering in the area. I fear that things might get chaotic if we continue stalling.


    Fang Chen took a look around and saw that the streets werepletely stuffed with people. There were people from all walks of life, be it civilians, vendors, or even nobles.


    Milord, should we seal off the South Mountain School? Jue Panshi asked with a whisper.


    Its not the South Mountain School that were going to seal off but that courtyard over there. Fang Chen pointed at an inconspicuous courtyard right beside the South Mountain School.


    Many willow trees were nted near the South Mountain School, and that courtyard quietly sat under one of these willow trees. There was nothing special about that courtyard at first sight.


    However, the Auspicious King and the others looked as if they had been struck by lightning. Disbelief filled their eyes. Even the nearby civilians were taken aback. Secondster, whispers broke out amid the crowd.


    The courtyards owner was none other than South Mountain Schools principal, Master Chen!


    Imperial Duke Fang, what do you mean by this? Master Chen was so angry that his body trembled, and he clutched his chest.


    The nearby students rushed forward to support him. They consoled him while furiously ring at Fang Chen.


    Only Yu Zhangs face crumbled. <em>I might still be able to argue my case if he went to my manor, but to think that he went to Master Chens courtyard instead</em>


    This truly opens my eyes, Jue Panshi murmured while looking at Master Chen.


    He was no kind soul. As a Valiant Defenders chiliarch stationed in the southern region, he would have never been able to establish himself here if he didnt have any means. He had inflicted his fair share of cruelty, and he had made shady deals too.


    Even so, he had always kept a bottom line. It was thanks to the bottom line that he was still safely standing before Fang Chen.


    He would have never thought that Master Chen, the South Mountain Schools principal, a respected teacher responsible for nurturing the next generation, would actually be such a vile person.


    Master Chen Zhao Yan murmured as two streams of tears suddenly flowed from his eyes.


    He, as a pinnacle Earth Profound realm martial artist, was as good as an immortalpared to the martial artists living in the South Immortal Commandery. He could sneak into the most tightly guarded ces with ease, and he had exploited those skills of his to search for evidence.


    But the one ce he had never checked was Master Chens courtyard.


    <em>Is it because I felt conscience-stricken, or is it because I was ashamed? </em>


    He had no idea what had stopped him, but he remembered many years back, when he was a child eavesdropping into the South Mountain School, a person quietly squatted before him and asked him if he wanted to learn to read. He nodded in response, and that person brought him into the South Mountain School.


    Whenever he spared money to the starving, that person would share his meals with him.


    Fang Chen looked at Master Chen with his lifeless, grayish-white eyes, and thetter suddenly turned ghastly pale.


    Seal off this courtyard. Dont let a single housefly escape. All of the servants and maids are to be taken away for interrogation, Fang Chen ordered.


    Understood! Jue Panshi replied. Break down the door and seal off the courtyard!


    Yes, Chiliarch Jue!


    The Valiant Defenders immediately encircled the courtyard. They knocked down the courtyards door, and it only took minutes for them to arrest all of the servants and maids.


    To the crowds surprise, all of the servants were disabled in one way or another, be it mute, blind, deaf, orme.


    A hunched old man shakily looked at Master Chen and asked, Old Master, what happened?


    Master Chen took a deep breath. A cold glint inconspicuously shed across his eyes. Theres no need to worry. Imperial Duke Fang suspects me and wishes to search the courtyard. You can patiently wait by the side for now.


    Yes, Old Master. The hunched old man nodded.


    It cant be Master Chen, right?


    Could Imperial Duke Fang have gotten the wrong person?


    Master Chen is known to be a kind man. These disabled people are shunned wherever they go, but he took them in and provided them with food and lodging. Where else can you find such a kind person in the South Immortal Commandery?


    Such whispers could be heard.


    More and more students gathered around the area. They were furious to learn that Fang Chen wanted to search Master Chens courtyard, and they indignantly stood in the Valiant Defenders way.


    As much as we respect you, Imperial Duke Fang, we respect Master Chen more. He is our South Mountain Schools principal. How can you insinuate that hes rted to Zhao Yans case? This is a humiliation to our South Mountain School!


    The students saliva flew everywhere as they scolded Fang Chen. Some of them even exerted their inner ki, prepared to fight the Valiant Defenders over this.


    Take them down, Fang Chen calmly said.


    Secondster, these students were all arrested by the ferocious Valiant Defenders. Fang Chen walked up to one of the students and patted his head. I am humiliating you. What about it?


    You!


    That student red at Fang Chen with raging eyes, but he dared not to act up. The person standing before him was Great Xias number one expert, after all.


    Arrest them too, Fang Chen instructed.


    He then walked into the courtyard with Xu Ge. The civilians quickly followed along.


    Seeing that, Commandery Chief Ouyang quickly turned over to seek the Auspicious Kings opinion. Thetter spent a second in thought before saying, Let some people in.


    Yes, Your Highness.


    It didnt take long for the usually peaceful courtyard to be filled with a noisy crowd. These people followed Fang Chen as he strutted across the residence.


    All of a sudden, Fang Chen suddenly stopped his footstep.


    The perplexed crowd stopped as well.


    Fang Chen slowly made his way toward a fake mountain and gently struck it. A breeze blew, and the seven-meter-tall fake hill disintegrated into dust.


    Ah?!


    Wu Zhanghuang and the other martial artists gasped in shock. They couldnt help but imagine what would happen to them if that palm strike had been directed at them instead.


    The Auspicious King and the other officials were startled as well. Most of them had practiced martial arts to some extent, so they understood just how powerful that palm strike was.


    Just this palm strike was enough to solidify Fang Chens title as Great Xias number one expert!

 Chapter 174: Let’s Get to the Bottom Of It

    Chapter 174: Let¡¯s Get to the Bottom Of It


    Master Chen staggered at that sight.


    The other students quickly consoled him and said, Dont worry, Master Chen. Imperial Duke Fang might have destroyed your fake hill, but he will soon have to deliver two of them over in due time.


    Indeed, indeed!


    The other students nodded in agreement.


    Only Yu Zhang maintained his silence. It looked as if his energy had been siphoned from him when he saw the fake hill being shattered into pieces. His legs lost their strength, and it was a struggle for him to even remain standing.


    That is


    The Auspicious King warily walked over. Amidst the dust, he noticed that there was a dark passageway beneath the fake hill. Muffled cries could be heard from time to time; it was hard to tell whether it was from a human or a ghost, but either way, it was blood-curdling.


    Xu Ge, Chiliarch Jue, take some men down. Bring some additional clothes along, Fang Chen instructed.


    Yes, Imperial Duke Fang!


    The two of them nodded. They requested some clothes from the civilians before making their way into the dark passageway. Momentster, furious howls echoed from within.


    They were from Xu Ge and Jue Panshi.


    The crowd first looked at the dark passageway, followed by Master Chen, and their eyes widened in disbelief. <em>Could Master Chen really be the true culprit behind Zhao Yans case?</em>


    Master Chens students sweated profusely. Their hearts were telling them that Master Chen couldnt have been such a person, but their sense of reason was telling them that the truth of this matter was different from what they had imagined.


    The crowd anxiously waited for the result.


    Some timeter, the Valiant Defenders who descended into the dark passageway finally returned. They carried dposing corpses that were covered with wounds up with them.


    One, two, three Soon, eighteen corpses wereid in front of the crowd.


    It could be seen from their clothes that they were all womenyoung ones at that. The awful stench from the dposing corpses wafted in the air. A heavy atmosphere loomed in the air, crushing down on everyones hearts.


    Jue Panshi and Xu Ge came up carrying a trembling woman with a frightened face each.


    It had been a long time since these two women had seen the sun that they instinctively closed their eyes tightly. They were wrapped in the clothes the Valiant Defenders had brought down with them earlier, but their exposed arms and face were covered in welts and bruises.


    Master Chen, what else do you have to say? Fang Chen turned over and asked.


    The crowd turned to look at Master Chen. Faced with so many eyes, Master Chen slowly regained hisposure and asked, Fang Chen, how did you know about that ce?


    He had always been proud of how thorough and careful he was. He was confident that no one could have found his hidden dungeon, so he couldnt believe that Fang Chen could lock onto it in a single night.


    Master Chen suddenly nced at the hunched old man.


    You dont need to know that, Fang Chen replied.


    <em>If not for my ability to astral project, I wouldnt have suspected Master Chen even if I took over this case, let alone found his dungeon. But he doesnt have to know that. </em>


    Master Chen, you


    The students were appalled. They slowly backed away with looks of disbelief.


    The Auspicious King red at Master Chen with cold eyes. Many emotions flickered across his face before he finally bellowed, You beast!


    I merely lost, Master Chen replied with a chuckle. If not for this, I would have still been the South Mountain Schools principal, and you people would still have been fools dancing on my palm.


    Master Chen, why did you frame me? Zhao Yan asked.


    The crowd looked at Zhao Yan with conflicted eyes, knowing that they had wronged him over the years. He was a young schr with a bright future ahead of him, but he now looked older than his age and even lost an eye.


    Xia Song felt the most guilty of all. He dared not look Zhao Yan in the eye.


    You saw something you shouldnt have, Master Chen said. Its only a matter of time before someone of your wits pieced the puzzle together. Thats why you had to die. I didnt expect you to be a powerful martial artist. You even fooled me on that one.


    <em>Saw something I shouldnt have? </em>Zhao Yan fell into thought. Secondster, he asked, Its that girl, isnt it? She had nowhere to go and was begging for alms on the streets. I wanted to spare her some money, but you beat me to it.


    Unknowingly, Zhao Yans fingernails were already digging into his flesh, and blood dripped from his hands onto the ground. Yet, he was oblivious to it. Shes dead, isnt she?


    Master Chen snorted in disdain.


    Zhao Yan turned to Yu Zhang and asked, What about you? What role did you y in this?


    Him? Master Chenughed. He hates you. He hates you for one-upping him in everything since you joined the school. He hates you for winning him in debate. He hates you for getting so close to the Auspicious Kings young master Xia Song


    The crowd was baffled. They looked at Yu Zhang in disbelief. <em>This fellow is actually so narrow-minded?</em>


    Even Xia Song was bewildered too. <em>Yu Zhang hates Zhao Yan because of me? Just because I was close with Zhao Yan?</em>


    Theres nothing easier to control than a person fueled by hatred. It would be inconvenient for me to personally get rid of you, so I left it to him instead. This way, no one would suspect him for the crime, and even if they did, they wouldnt turn their eyes to me, Master Chen said with a chuckle.


    Yu Zhang fell limp on the ground.


    What made you so sure that he wouldnt betray you? Zhao Yan coldly asked.


    The crowd was perplexed too, since Yu Zhang showed no inclination to sell out Master Chen earlier despite having the suspicion on him.


    Master Chenughed. He ignored Zhao Yans question and instead turned to Fang Chen. Imperial Duke Fang has cracked a huge case today. Your prestige in Great Xia will further soar because of this. If I may ask, when do you intend to lop off my head?


    Why dont you first tell me who you sent to kill Huang Xin? Is it this deaf, hunchback servant of yours who wields the strength of a pinnacle Ki Explosion martial artist? Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    Old Master, run!


    The hunchback old man immediately flitted over to Master Chens side. He wanted to grab Master CHen and throw him outside the crowds encirclement, but before he could achieve anything, a saber had already pierced through his forehead.


    The saber then whizzed back to Huangfu Jies side.


    The crowd was startled. <em>Huangfu Jies means are getting more unfathomable.</em>


    You fool, Master Chen nced at the hunchback old mans corpse and sneered.


    It was only now that the crowd realized that the kind and amicable Master Chen was actually a cold-hearted person.


    With how things havee to this, Master Chen, theres no reason for you to conceal how you manipted Yu Zhang anymore, Fang Chen said. Hell be apanying you down there. Why dont you just let everything out?


    Thats true Master Chen murmured.


    Yu Zhangs face turned ghastly pale. His knees fell to the ground, and he desperately kowtowed to Master Chen. No, Master Chen! You mustnt say! Dont say a word at all! Ill serve you even when we reach theherworld! Im begging you, please dont say a word!

 Chapter 175: I Won’t Let Him Off Easily

    Chapter 175: I Won¡¯t Let Him Off Easily


    Yu Zhang is an outstanding child, just that hes a bit narrow-minded. Other than that, he doesnt like women, Master Chen ignored Yu Zhangs pleas and said.


    <em>He doesnt like women? </em>The crowd couldnt believe what they were hearing.


    The students widened their eyes as they backed away. Their faces turned green as they seemed to recall something.


    Ah, you probably still dont know yet. The person he likes is Zhao Yan. Ey, the deeper the love, the greater the hatred. Master Chen sighed as he looked at the sky. How many people in this world are able to escape from the tribtion of love?


    Yu Zhang slowly closed his eyes. There was nothing he wanted more than to drop dead right now. He didnt want to remain in this world for even a second longer.


    Fang Chen:


    The crowd fell silent too. Even Zhao Yan was dumbstruck as well. He nearly lost control of his inner ki and went berserk.


    Secondster, Fang Chen turned to Yu Zhang and said, So what if you like men? You could have daringly confessed your feelings. There might still be a glimmer of hope. Yet, you chose to frame Zhao Yan, and you ended up being reduced to Master Chens vile aplice.


    Yu Zhang didnt say a word. He suddenly rammed his head against the floor. <em>Bam bam bam! </em>


    He put all his strength into it. Just like that, he breathed hisst.


    To think things would turn out like this Fang Chen shook his head.


    Yu Zhang probably would have stubbornly held on for anything else, but the one thing that he feared the most was to have his sexuality revealed in public.


    Imperial Duke Fang, hes dead, Jue Panshi inspected Yu Zhangs body before reporting.


    We should make an example of him regardless, Fang Chen said.


    Understood, Imperial Duke Fang. Jue Panshi nodded.


    Just then, someone in the crowd noticed some of the corpses and the two living women. Another uproar broke out as a result. Curses, cries, and furious roars ensued.


    Yet, Master Chen watched all of these with an eerie smile, as if he was enjoying the criticisms.


    Your Highness, Ill leave it to you to clean up the situation, Fang Chen said.


    I understand. The Auspicious King nodded.


    He ordered Commandery Chief Ouyang and the others to settle this matter. It took two hours before themotion finally brought down, and the corpses were transported away afterward.


    Master Chen was apprehended by the Valiant Defenders and brought to the barracks.


    Fang Chen, how do you intend to deal with me? Master Chen asked with a mocking smile before he was dragged away.


    Youll know tomorrow, Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    Zhao Yan watched with a bated breath as Master Chen was dragged away. Momentster, he took a deep breath before looking at the sky with his remaining eye.


    What are you looking at? Fang Chen asked.


    The sky. Its the first time Ive seen it so blue, Zhao Yan replied.


    Itll remain blue in the future too, unless it rains, Fang Chen replied.


    Zhao Yan slowly turned to Fang Chen, followed by the Auspicious King, Xu Ge, and the others. Without any warning, he kneeled down and kowtowed to Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen didnt stop him.


    Zhao Yan didnt get up right after kowtowing. Instead, he said with a suppressed voice, Imperial Duke Fang, I have nowhere else to go. Please take me in. Im willing to guide the younger Fang nsmen on their martial arts.


    The crowd was surprised, but it made sense too. Zhao Yan would have never been exonerated from his charges if not for Fang Chen making a move.


    No one could have imagined that Master Chen was the true culprit. This filled the crowd with fear, as there were many officials in the South immortal Commander who had ties with him.


    What about the academics? Fang Chen asked. I heard youre good at that too?


    Zhao Yan shook his head. Ill never touch academics ever again.


    The surrounding martial artists murmured their approval of his decision. The Auspicious King and a few other officials looked awkward, for they were the ones who advocated academics as a way of life.


    Rise. Fang Chen nodded with a smile.


    Xia Song walked over and awkwardly looked at Zhao Yan. Brother Zhao, I have misunderstood you. You might not have lost your eye if only I had intervened back then.


    I lost an eye, but my heart sees clearer than before. This might not necessarily be a bad thing. Imperial Duke Fang might have lost both his eyes, but he sees clearer than anyone else, Zhao Yan pointed out.


    The crowd was stunned. <em>Zhao Yan sure is bold to dare say that! </em>


    Unexpectedly, Fang Chen wasnt angered by that remark. This left the crowd more perplexed. <em>Does Fang Chen have such a high view of Zhao Yan?</em>


    You me me, dont you? Xia Song asked bitterly.


    If I truly med you, the Auspicious King Manor would have long plunged into chaosI have the power to do that. I can see whats going on. You didnt help me because you believed that I was the culprit. You did nothing wrong at all. The same goes for the others. The ones who had done wrong are Master Chen and Yu Zhang, Zhao Yan said.


    Huangfu Jie frowned. He first nced at Fang Chen before turning to Zhao Yan. What big words you utter. Our Profound Saber Sect doesnt involve ourselves in other peoples affairs, but we wont let others easily touch the Auspicious King Manor under our watch.


    Zhao Yan chuckled. He gently beckoned with his hand, and shockingly, all of Huangfu Jies seven sabers drifted to his side.


    The crowd was bbergasted.


    Huangfu Jie was taken aback too. He tried to pull his sabers back with his inner ki, but it wouldnt budge at all. It was as if some invisible force was standing in his way.


    Wu Zhanghuan and the other martial artists were astounded. <em>Zhao Yans martial cultivation is far higher than we expected!</em>


    Not even the Profound Saber Sect Master could simultaneously control seven sabers, but Zhao Yan, despite being a student of the South Mountain School, was able to rob Huangfu Jie of his sabers.


    Huangfu Jie, I have told you that the world isrger than you think. Youllg behind if you dont work hard. Zhao Yan has long reached pinnacle Earth Profound. You arent a match for him, Fang Chen said with a chuckle. He turned to Zhao Yan and said, Return the sabers to him.


    Zhao Yan nodded. With a wave of his hand, the seven sabers returned to Huangfu Jies side.


    <em>Earth Profound realm? </em>


    The crowd was shocked by those three words. Wu Zhanghuan and the other martial artists couldnt believe that an Earth Profound realm martial artist wouldnd in such a plight.


    Had it been them, they wouldnt have swallowed their indignation. They would have gone on a rampage, especially since there was no one in the South Immortal Commandery who could stop an Earth Profound realm martial artist. They would have to deploy at least tens of thousands of soldiers, and even so, there was no guarantee that they could capture him.


    Hes at Earth Profound realm I would have never thought theres such a prodigy in the southern region, Huangfu Jie said with a frown. He instinctively nced at Fang Chen.


    Zhao Yan could guess what Huangfu Jie was wondering, so he replied, Im not a match for Imperial Duke Fang. He could kill me with ease.


    <em>So Imperial Duke Fang is still the more formidable one here, </em>the crowd thought while heaving a sigh of relief.


    It was then that the Auspicious King asked, Imperial Duke Fang, how should we deal with Master Chen? Are we going to publicly execute him tomorrow?


    That would be letting him off too easily. Fang Chen smiled.


    The crowd realized that Master Chen was going to die a horrendous death.

 Chapter 176: New Punishment

    Chapter 176: New Punishment


    Given the southern regions extreme climate, it was rare for people to head out in the scorching noon, so there was hardly anyone to be seen at this time.


    However, today was different from the usual days. People were anxiously streaming toward the entrance of the magistrate court.


    Countless people were already gathered in the area, their heads looking around curiously as to what was going to happen next. Some tried to squeeze forward, but the defense line maintained by the Valiant Defenders firmly held them back.


    At the entrance of the magistrate court was a tree stump, and Master Chen was tied to it by a thick metal chain. He had to narrow his eyes to cope with the blinding sunlight, and little beads of sweat dotted his forehead.


    Beside him was a table and a chair.


    Fang Chen sat on the chair unmovingly. The blinding sunlight didnt faze him at all; his body remained fresh without the slightest hint of sweat.


    The South Immortal Commanderys officials stood behind the Auspicious King, their hands held above their heads to block off the blinding sunlight while frequently wiping away their sweat.


    A few South Mountain Schools students came as well. They had conflicted looks on their faces. They still refused to believe that Master Chen was the true culprit behind Zhao Yans case, and that their chief student, Yu Zhang, was an aplice.


    However, the evidence was in ce. There was no room for further arguments.


    Id never thought Master Chen was such a person.


    Hes a monster! I was thinking of sending my only son to study at the South Mountain School. Im d Imperial Duke Fang ripped off Master Chens hypocritical face, or else I would wallow in regret if my son ended up like him!


    Imperial Duke Fang should be publicly executing Master Chen today. People like that ought to be killed! Who knows how many innocent people he has killed over the years?


    Murmurs could be heard from the crowd.


    Commandery Chief Ouyang slicked off his sweat before asking the Auspicious King, Your Highness, how do you think Imperial Duke Fang intends to deal with Master Chen?


    How do I know Imperial Duke Fangs intention? The Auspicious King harrumphed.


    Commandery Chief Ouyang sheepishly smiled. Not daring to say anything else, he patiently waited for Fang Chen to make a move.


    Master Chen looked at the seemingly resting Fang Chen and chuckled. Imperial Duke Fang, you should stop keeping us in suspense. Either way, youre going to kill me, right? I believe in gods in heaven and reincarnation in theherworld. Who knows? We might meet again in the near future.


    The crowd was appalled. <em>Master Chen is showing no remorse despite standing in the face of death?</em>


    I never thought a schr could be so depraved. Even martial artists like us fear death.


    The crowd felt bitter at how Master Chen was unfazed by his impending execution, especially the victims families. They felt like he wasnt being sufficiently punished for his crimes despite having harmed so many people.


    Great Xias punishments have always been simple. Those whomit severe crimes either have their possessions taken away or are decapitated. Only the Valiant Defenders are more creative with their means, Fang Chen said with a smile.


    Jue Panshi awkwardly looked away. The Valiant Defenders had indeed used quite a few creative means to deal with the people whom they had apprehended.


    Oh? Are you going to humiliate me? Master Chenughed. Do you think Id fear that?


    Ill pass on the humiliation. I just think that Great Xia can add another type of punishment to deal with the worst scums, Fang Chen said.


    The crowds curiosity was piqued. <em>Another type of punishment? Is Imperial Duke Fang going toe up with another way to punish the scoundrels of the world?</em>


    A hint of expectation glimmered in their eyes.


    Ill use this dagger to cut your flesh off slice by slice. In total, there will be 3600 slices. Ill pluck out your organs one by one. However, you wont die. Youll watch with your own eyes as you are reduced to a skeleton.


    Fang Chen flicked his wrist and whipped out a little knife. Once your flesh is gone, Ill scrape your bone and hammer your marrows. I hope that there is aherworld too. I heard sinners who go to theherworld will be put through such punishments, day and night without rest.


    His voice wasnt loud, but his words were clearly ryed to the crowd, and it made their hairs stand on end. Even the Auspicious King and the other officials, who had seen their fair share of cruelty, felt goosebumps.


    Master Chens smile slowly vanished. Panic slipped into his eyes. He red at Fang Chen and roared, Fang Chen, how can you be so vicious!


    An eye for an eye, Fang Chen replied. People like you deserve such viciousness. You have shown me unpleasant things. I shall return the favor to you.


    I wont give you a chance to do that! Master Chens face turned cold as he tried tomit suicide by biting his tongue, only to find his entire body stiffening up in ce.


    Some kind of invisible energy had suppressed him, rendering him unable to move at all.


    The fearless Master Chen finally grew fearful. His confidence shattered, and his expression turned more savage than ever.


    Fang Chen casually flicked the knife, and Master Chens clothes were torn into shreds, revealing his bare body.


    The first cut.


    A thumb-sized lump of meat was sliced off. Excruciating pain gripped Master Chen, and the feeling only worsened when he realized he couldnt even shout to vent it out.


    To the crowds astonishment, blood didnt trickle down from the wound despite welling up around the injury. This meant that Master Chen wouldnt die from excessive blood loss. At this rate, he might really have to take all 3600 slices


    Fang Chen tossed the sliced flesh onto the floor, which prompted some ck silhouettes to frenziedly rush over and fight for the flesh. These were the wild dogs who usually roamed the streets looking for food.


    A few Valiant Defenders stepped forward to chase them off, but Fang Chen stopped them with a wave of his hand. He eyed the dogs and said, Let them do as they please.


    The crowd felt conflicted. <em>This must be the most terrifying punishment seen. Not only does he have to endure the 3600 slices, but he has to watch as his flesh is eaten by wild dogs.</em>


    Time ticked by. Just as Master Chen was about to get used to the pain, Fang Chen suddenly brandished his knife again.


    Master Chens face immediately warped once more. Both his body and soul were being put through immense turmoil, and the thought that there was still a long way to go plunged him deep into despair.


    He looked at Fang Chen with pleading eyes, hoping for a quick death.


    Chiliarch Jue, you mustnt be too fast with this punishment, else the sinner cant experience the full suffering thates with it. You have to slice him just as he is about to be numb to the pain, Fang Chen exined.


    Jue Panshi made a mental note.


    The Auspicious King and the others were shaken up. <em>The Valiant Defenders will likely grasp this punishment in due time. If we do evil like Master Chen, will we be put through the same torture as well?</em>


    This thought frightened them so much that they quickly suppressed it and chanted Amithabha.


    Fang Chen continued at the frequency of fifty slices every hour, a pace that was neither fast nor slow. Time passed slowly.


    Hourster, some of the civilians couldnt take it anymore and vomited. Others turned pale like a sheet of paper. I doubt that even theherworld dares to ept him in his current state


    The injuries inflicted on Master Chens body were small but many. Blood welled up around the injuries but refused to trickle down. This bewildering sight intimidated everyone present.

 Chapter 177: Master Chen, I’ll Send You Off

    Chapter 177: Master Chen, I¡¯ll Send You Off


    The sun and the moon switched ces twice. A day had passed.


    The chilling punishment continued in front of the magistrate court.


    Master Chen had suffered 1200 slices in the span of a day. In the span of a night, his hair had turnedpletely white, and his face looked iparably emaciated.


    Yet, there was a breath left in him. He simply wouldnt die.


    The crowd realized that this must have been Fang Chens means. He was somehow keeping Master Chen alive, denying him the sce of death.


    Zhao Yan watched this sight emotionlessly. The hatred in his heart had vanished, though that didnt mean that he felt any pity for Master Chen either. Putting aside his personal grudge, he thought that Master Chen deserved this for what he had inflicted on those women.


    <em>This is karma!</em>


    The civilians around the magistrate court had switched many times by now. Some couldnt take it and ran off. Some tried squeezing to the front, wanting to see the punishment close up.


    However, the Auspicious King and the other officials dared not to leave because of Fang Chen. Fang Chen had spent thest 24 hours slicing Master Chens flesh; they spent thest 24 hours watching this cruelty unfold.


    The visual and mental turmoil made many officials stagger weakly as they reached their limits. It was almost as if the ones who were being punished weren''t Master Chen but them!


    Another day passed in a sh.


    This was the third day since Master Chen started his punishment. 48 hours had passed in total. Master Chen had taken 2400 slices, and there was just a day left before hepleted his 3600 slices.


    There were already rumors that Fang Chen was a Living Yama. Some even went so far as to im that they saw countless hell guards standing around Fang Chen at nightfall.


    (Yama is the God of Death and Justice in Hindu and Buddhist mythology.)


    These rumors were spoken with such conviction that even the students were gossiping about it.


    This should have been a punishment directed at Master Chen, but it brought about inexplicable pressure on most people in the South Immortal Commandery.


    Even Jue Panshi and his subordinates looked drained of blood. Their fear of Fang Chen deepened so much that it was practically imprinted in their souls.


    The only ones enjoying it were the wild dogs feasting on Master Chens body.


    Another day passed.


    Master Chen had turned into a skeletal rack before the crowds eyes. His organs were clear for all to see, and they were wrapped in ayer of blood that refused to trickle for some reason.


    With a flick of his sleeve, Fang Chen ripped out Master Chens kidney and tossed it on the ground. The wild dogs immediately split it among themselves.


    To the crowds surprise, neither Fang Chens hands nor sleeves were stained with blood.


    Fang Chen flicked his sleeve once more and tossed Master Chens lung onto the floor. The wild dogs pounced on it as well.


    Next were the spleen, liver, and finally the heart!


    He really plucked out his organs


    Terror could be seen in the crowds eyes.


    Even more so terrified was Master Chen. He had long sumbed to despair, and it only further deepened when he realized that he was still alive despite having his organs eaten by dogs.


    The fear that he would continue to suffer such pain until the end of time crushed all of the beliefs he had held onto. He thought back about everything he had done, but it was toote for regrets.


    By this point, the officials were starting to get light-headed, but the Auspicious King gritted his teeth and held on. Not only so, but he even ordered his men to ssh water on the officials to wake them up.


    You need to watch. This is the fate befalling those who do evil, the Auspicious King ordered.


    Yes, Your Highness. The officials weakly nodded as they forced themselves to watch.


    Next is the shaving of the bone and the knocking of the marrow Zhao Yan murmured.


    The crowd watched in fear as Fang Chen used a little knife to shave off Master Chens bones bit by bit. It was also at this point that Master Chen was finally allowed to speak, but what came out of him were not words but the most miserable cries any of them had ever heard.


    It was a noise that would haunt their dreams even when they thought about it yearster.


    AHHHHH!


    Quite a few officials fainted despite having mustered their determination a moment earlier. Of course, they were woken up by a ssh of cold water shortly after.


    At some point, the only thing remaining of Master Chen was his head. Everything beneath that, be it his flesh, bones, blood, or organs, had vanished without a trace. Yet, to the crowds horror, Master Chen was still alive!


    L-let me die Master Chen screeched hoarsely.


    This eerie sight spooked the crowd. It further convinced them of the floating rumors. <em>Who else other than the Living Yama could possess such means?</em>


    In truth, Fang Chen had been keeping Master Chen alive with his spirit ki. Three days was neither short nor long, but it was enough for a sixth stage Ki Refinement cultivator to deplete his spirit ki many times over.


    If not for the fast recuperation of his spirit ki, not even a Foundation Establishment cultivator would have been able to keep Master Chen alive for three days.


    Fang Chen quietly looked at Master Chen, not saying a word.


    It hurts! It hurts! My heart hurts! My hand hurts! Master Chen murmured weakly.


    The crowd was bewildered. <em>Master Chen has lost his body, so why does he still feel pain?</em>


    It was then that spirit ki suddenly surged into Fang Chens body, manifesting into his seventh immortal vein.


    Zhao Yan, send him off, Fang Chen said before returning to his chair to rest.


    Zhao Yan stepped out of the crowd and slowly made his way toward Master Chen. The eyes of the crowd followed him.


    Master Chen, Ill send you on your way, Zhao Yan softly said.


    T-thank you Master Chen murmured.


    Bam!


    With a simple palm strike, Master Chens head was reduced to dust.


    Master Chen was finally dead, but for some reason, there were some people in the crowd who continued to hear Master Chens miserable cries. Their bodies turned cold, and sweat rained from their bodies. The only thing remaining in the depths of their eyes was fear.


    Its over. You can scatter now. The Auspicious King weakly stood up and waved off the crowd.


    The civilians didnt kick up a fuss and quietly walked away. The victims families deeply bowed to the resting Fang Chen before taking their leave.


    Soon, the area in front of the magistrate court was cleared out.


    Imperial Duke Fang must be exhausted. Lets wait a little longer, the Auspicious King told Commandery Chief Ouyang and the others when he saw that Fang Chens eyes were closed.


    The crowd nodded.


    They ended up waiting for two hours.


    When Fang Chen finally opened his eyes, a gleam shed across his eyes. He had manifested his seventh immortal vein, and his spirit ki grew significantly more concentrated as a result.


    Ill be taking my leave, Fang Chen said before leaving with Xu Ge and Zhao Yan.


    The Auspicious King and the others saw him off. Only after the three of them were finally gone did they copse onto the floor one after another and let out a deep breath.


    Dont look at me. Im also at my limit. Jue Panshi noticed quite a few people eyeing him, and he let out a bitterugh. He wiped off his sweat and rested on the ground.

 Chapter 178: In Chillwater

    Chapter 178: In Chillwater


    Dayster, Zhao Yan didnt stay in the Fang Manor but instead followed Fang Chen and Xu Ge to the capital, where they met up with Li Daoye, Xia Yun, Liu Suifeng, and Tantai Qingxuan.


    You are going to bring those two with you? Li Daoye frowned as he gestured at Xu Ge and Zhao Yan.


    Xia Yun and his two juniors disapproved too. Their journey was going to be fraught with danger, after all. Martial artists wouldnt be of help to them; if anything, they would only drag them down.


    They are only going to Chillwater, Fang Chen said.


    Ah! Li Daoye eximed.


    Xia Yun appeared to grasp something from it too. He hesitantly said, Daoist Fang, Chillwaters strongest martial artist is at pinnacle Earth Profound realm


    He was implying that Xu Ge and Zhao Yan wouldnt be able to achieve much in Chillwater.


    Xu Ge is at Ki Control, though he should be advancing to Ki Manifestation soon. This journey will be good training for him. As for Zhao Yan Fang Chen smiled. You dont have to worry about him. Hes a pinnacle Earth Profound realm martial artist.


    Pinnacle Earth Profound realm? Xia Yun was taken aback.


    Pinnacle Earth Profound realm martial artists wereparable to eighth stage Ki Refinement cultivators. Martial artists only appeared weak inparison due to inner ki being weaker than spirit ki, but otherwise, it was quite a formidable level.


    They instinctively thought that Zhao Yan was from another grade-8 state, but they couldnt help but wonder where Fang Chen found such a helper from.


    Interesting. I have never shed with a pinnacle Earth Profound realm martial artist before, Li Daoye chuckled.


    Bam!


    Zhao Yan merely raised his hand, and Li Daoye was immediately crushed to the floor by a boundless wave of inner ki. If not for his spirit ki, his body might have been crushed into bits.


    Xu Ge gloated over his embarrassment. Thats for acting smug. You should know that Brother Zhao is our Great Xias number two martial arts expert! No one else in Great Xia, other than our young master, canpete with him.


    Zhao Yan released his inner ki with a smile.


    Li Daoye slowly staggered to his feet, but he was reluctant to ept the result. You only caught me by surprise! If I had more time to make preparations


    You still wouldnt be a match for him. Even forcing a draw is beyond you, Fang Chen interjected with a smile. Your cultivation is too low. If you raise your cultivation by a stage or two, you might still be able to cross blows with him.


    Forget it. Li Daoye decided to step back on this one, knowing it was impossible for him to win.


    Its gettingte. Lets head out, Xia Yun said.


    Liu Suifeng and Tantai Qingxuan nodded. They wanted to head there as soon as possible to investigate the blessednd.


    Are you capable of sword flight? Fang Chen asked.


    The three of them exchanged looks before shaking their heads. <em>Is Fang Chen capable of sword flight?</em>


    Im unable to do it too, Fang Chen replied with a chuckle.


    An hourter, the group rode out of the capital on horseback. Their destinationChillwater.


    Under the enhancement of spirit ki, even ordinary steeds became capable of galloping thousands of kilometers in a day, and they didnt even need rest at night. It was just that this was extremely taxing on their spirit ki.


    Xia Yun and his two juniors realized that Fang Chen was not only enhancing his own steed by Xu Ge and Zhao Yans ones too. Rather, it was Li Daoye who kept depleting his spirit ki, so the crowd had no choice but to stop and rest together with him.


    Dayster, Xia Yun took out a map and assessed the surroundings. He nodded affirmatively and said, Everyone, were in Chillwater now.


    Senior Xia, how far away are we from our destination? Liu Suifeng asked.


    Let me take a look Xia Yun took a closer look at the map and did some mental calctions. To his astonishment, their destination was extremely close to Chillwater.


    Were there cultivators in Chillwater before? Xia Yun narrowed his eyes in skepticism.


    Thats possible, Tantai Qingxuan said. A Spirit Marrow did emerge from Great Xia. Chillwater isnt that far from Great Xia; there could have been cultivators here.


    It might be possible that the other countries around Great Xia used to have cultivators too. Maybe theres another Spirit Marrow here, Liu Suifeng remarked.


    Their eyes lit up. They decided to take a walk around the nearby countries after this trip, hoping that they might get something good out of it.


    However, Fang Chen poured a pail of cold water over them. There are plenty of cultivators in Dragonback Lane. They are likely to have taken whatever is valuable there.


    Thats true The three of them lowered their heads in disappointment.


    Dragonback Lane was a market created by unaffiliated cultivators. The people there were more desperate for cultivation resources than anyone else; it was likely they had already plundered whatever was useful in those few states.


    The group advanced amid chatter.


    They started bumping into more people as they ventured deeper into Chillwater, forcing them to slow down their speed of travel.


    Just as they were passing by a town, they bumped into a toon of Nightmare Knights. The civilians residing in the town quickly hid in their houses, fearing that they would offend these powerful soldiers. Even the martial artists wisely chose to stay out of their ways.


    Even the weakest Nightmare Knight was at Ki Control, and paired with the Nightmare Steed, their fighting prowess was top-notch by Great Xias standards. Even in Chillwater, they were considered elites.


    On top of that, they were backed by either the Ji n or Chillwaters imperial family. Both were powerhouses that they couldnt afford to offend.


    Xia Yun and the others, as cultivators, wouldnt pay any heed to these ants. They merely nced at the Nightmare Knights Steeds while passing them by.


    Hold it right there, a Nightmare Knight suddenly bellowed.


    Fang Chen and the others didnt even attempt to slow their footsteps. The next moment, they were surrounded by the Nightmare Knights.


    Do you need something from us? Xu Ge sped his fist and asked with a smile.


    You dont look like locals. Where are you from? one of the Nightmare Knights asked.


    Were from Longdu, Xu Ge replied.


    Xia Yun and the others exchanged looks. They didnt think this was necessary, but Xu Ge was Fang Chens subordinate, so they dared not to say anything about it.


    Longdu? the Nightmare Knight narrowed his eyes doubtfully. He assessed the group of them before waving his hand. Dont cause trouble in Chillwater. A demon has recently emerged from his seclusion. You should steer clear if you bump into him, the Nightmare Knight said before the group of them left.


    Xu Ge looked at Fang Chen with a look of realization. No wonder we would bump into the Nightmare Knights at a border town. It looks like Chillwaters pugilistic world isnt peaceful either.


    Which pugilistic world is peaceful? Fang Chen shook his head with a smile.


    The crowd continued advancing.


    They soon arrived before a gushing river that appeared to be a port. Quite a few people were transporting goods around.


    Well be traveling on water from this point onward. Itll be much faster, or else well have to scale a few mountain ranges, Xia Yun eyed the map before saying.


    Old Xu, go and ask, Fang Chen instructed.


    Xu Ge nodded. He dove into the crowd, and soon, he returned in a hurry and reported, Young master, I just asked and there is a boat heading toward the capital, but


    But what?


    Its a cargo boat. It might be a bit dirty. Its shipping a batch of ves on top of that.


    Its fine. Fang Chen smiled before galloping toward the cargo boat with the others.


    Quite a few people boarded the cargo boat, ranging from simply-dressed civilians to merchants, martial artists, and schrs.

 Chapter 179: The Song Clan is the Law

    Chapter 179: The Song n is the Law


    Fang Chens group boarded the cargo boat. Their fares were much more expensive as they brought their horses on board with them.


    We only have one room left. Do you mind squeezing?


    One of the crewmates led Fang Chens group across a cramped corridor toward a cabin filled with sweat stench.


    Its fine. Fang Chen nodded.


    Xia Yun and the others didnt mind either. Their spirit ki allowed them to remain immacte no matter how dirty their surroundings were. Besides, cultivators didnt have to sleep; they merely needed space to sit down and meditate.


    Wait! A person dressed in maid clothes suddenly rushed over. Her frown and her covering her nose with a handkerchief signaled her disdain for her surroundings. She eyed the cargo area before turning to the crewmate and saying, Our young miss will be taking this room. We have many people with us. The rooms you allocated to us aren''t enough.


    This The crewmate was taken aback. He hesitantly looked at Fang Chen and the others.


    Seeing that, the maid took out a silver ingot that was worth roughly five taels and tossed it to the crewmate, saying, Get to it.


    The crewmates face lit up. He turned to Fang Chen and said, My apologies, but would you mind squeezing on the deck? Its only a few days journey to the capital. Ill refund your two silver taels.


    Tantai Qingxuan nced at the arrogant maid and harrumphed. Have you never heard of firste first serve?


    The maid assessed Tantai Qingxuan from head to toe before scoffing, A woman like you is traveling together with a group of men and even sharing a room; do you have no shame?


    Fang Chen and the others werent bothered by the conflict.


    Liu Suifeng even shook his head with a smile. He knew his Tantai Qinguxan temperament, which was why he knew that maid was going to suffer. <em></em>


    The maid merely felt a gust of wind when she btedly realized that Tantai Qingxuan was already standing in front of her. Tantai Qingxuan raised her hand and inflicted ten ps on the maid, leaving thetter feeling light-headed.


    The crewmate hurriedly stepped forward to intervene, but Xu Ge stood up and pped him so hard that he fell to the ground. The silver ingot slipped from his grasp, rolled off the edge, and dropped into the river.


    Many people witnessed the sight. On the one hand, they felt pained by the loss of the silver ingotit was not a small sum of money, but at the same time, they were curious to know who Fang Chen and the others were to act so arrogantly.


    After inflicting thirty ps on the maid, Tantai Qingxuan finally vented all her anger and sneered, Scram.


    You The maid grasped her swollen cheek while ring at Tantai Qingxuan with vicious eyes. She stomped off and made her way toward a group of people, where she started angrily sharing what had just happened.


    Those people whom the maid was talking to looked to be merchants, but there were many martial artists standing around them. They were clearly not people to be trifled with. As they listened to the maids story, some of them looked over at Fang Chens group with hostile eyes.


    Momentster, they marched over with the maid.


    You Do you not know the rules at all?! The crewmate who was pped to the ground frantically searched around for the silver ingot, only to btedly realize that it had dropped into the river. That prompted him to re at Xu Ge and the others angrily.


    Rules? Firste first serve should be a rule, no? Xu Ge scoffed. That maid tried to take our room without consulting us. Are you saying shes in the right?


    The crewmate was stumped.


    Our Song n is the rule. A harrumph echoed.


    The one who had just spoken was a young man in his early twenties. He held a foldable fan in his hand, and his eyes gleamed with spirit. He was surprisingly strong as a martial artist, looking to have reached Ki Control.


    He was apanied by arge group of martial artists behind him. In particr, a cold-faced woman stood right behind him.


    One is at first stage Aureate Ki, and the rest are at Human Profound realm, Zhao Yan said.


    The Aureate Ki martial artist he spoke about was an old man with sharp eyes standing behind the young man. He quietly eyed Fang Chens group with an emotionless face.


    Your Song n? Xu Geughed. I heard about Chillwaters Ji n, but I have never heard of the Song n before? What makes you so formidable that you think you are the rule?


    Are those people not from Chillwater?


    How could they have not heard about the Song n? The Song n might pale inparison to the Ji n, but they have over a hundred thousand nsmen. Be it the pugilistic world or the imperial court, the Song ns silhouette can be seen everywhere!


    Its foolish to trifle with the Song n, even if they arent from the main lineage. Those people are in trouble.


    Some of the martial artists watching the spectacle muttered among themselves.


    The young man assessed Xu Ge before chuckling. It turns out you arent from Chillwater at all! Little Emerald, is he the one who hit you?


    The maid red at Tantai Qingxuan viciously. Its that bitch.


    The young man nced at Tantai Qingxuan and was slightly startled. Not only did Tantai Qingxuan have a beautiful face, but she also emanated an ethereal air due to her cultivation. Now that he was paying attention to her, he found that he couldnt tear his eyes away from her.


    Even so, he quickly snapped out of it and grunted, Elder Qin, that woman doesnt know her ce for daring to humiliate our Song nsman. ording to the rules, how should we deal with her?


    The old man with sharp eyes let out a deepughter. Young master, we can take her as our Song ns ve.


    Lets do that. The young man nodded with a smile.


    Without any warning, Elder Qin flitted up to Tantai Qingxuan. He was so fast that the others weren''t able to follow his movements at all; they could only feel a gust of wind.


    Xia Yun and Liu Suifeng exchanged looks. Neither of them looked inclined to make a move.


    Fang Chen and the others decided to just watch themotion too.


    Elder Qin d his body in aureate ki, which granted him immense strength and imprable defense that no Human Profound realm martial artist could hope to match.


    Bam!


    A crisp crack ensued.


    It was as if Elder Qings w had swiped onto something unbreakable; his w ended up shattering instead. The excruciating pain had him sweating profusely. He anxiously retreated back to the young mans side and assessed Tantai Qingxuan with shocked eyes while grasping his fractured hand.


    Song Yi and the others were taken aback. They hadnt expected Elder Qin to be outdone by such a young woman.


    The maid was horrified. She felt a chill running down her back. <em>Even Elder Qin is unable to deal with that woman? To think that I actually </em>


    Zhao Yan watched the spectacle and quietly sighed. He had to admit there was a huge gap between martial artists and cultivators. He didnt have the absolute confidence to defeat Tantai Qingxuan in a battle.


    Measly ants. Tantai Qingxuan eyed Song Yi and the others with murderous eyes, but she quickly curbed her killing intent. The South Heaven Sect had rules prohibiting them from taking mortals lives at a whim.


    Who are you? Song Yi instinctively asked with a frown. A secondter, he quickly sped his fist and added, It looks like it was just a misunderstanding. We shall take our leave.


    Just as he was about to turn around and leave with his people, Tantai Qingxuan suddenly spoke up, Youre leaving just like that?


    The corners of her lips crept into a faint sneer.

 Chapter 180: Three Kowtows

    Chapter 180: Three Kowtows


    Grimness seeped into Song Yis eyes. He politely bowed and asked, Miss, do you need anything from us?


    You wanted to capture me earlier and take me as your Song ns ve, Tantai Qingxuan coldly pointed out. Are you trying to shrug that off by saying that its a misunderstanding?


    What else do you want? Song Yi asked. You may possess formidable meansIm guessing youre at pinnacle Aureate Kibut such martial artists are aplenty in our Song n!


    I heard the Song ns Old Master is at third stage Origin Ki. He does have the right to say such words.


    There are no more than ten fourth stage Longevity Ki martial artists in our Chillwaters vast territories. Given so, it would be unwise to offend a third stage Origin Ki martial artist.


    The martial artists gossiped.


    Tantai Qingxuan sneered, Dont try to threaten me with the Song n. All of you, kneel down and kowtow to me thrice, and Ill spare you from bloodshed today.


    <em>Kowtow to her thrice?!</em>


    Song Yi and the others were infuriated by Tantai Qingxuans threat. They would have never thought that someone in Chillwater would dare demand them, Song nsmen, to kneel down and kowtow. <em>She must be tired of living!</em>


    Youre demanding a lot. Which sect are you from? I might be acquainted with your elders, Elder Qin asked with a darkened face.


    You? Tantai Qingxuan burst intoughter. She wondered how the other party would react if he learned that her elders were all powerful cultivators.


    Fang Chenughed as well. He turned to Song Yi and said, You should do as she says. Its just three kowtows. It is a light punishment.


    <em>Youre calling that a light punishment? You know that youre dealing with the Song nsmen here, right?! </em>The surrounding martial artists were shocked. They couldnt believe how arrogant Fang Chen and the others were being, and that made them curious about their background.


    Its not your ce to speak here. Song Yi red at Fang Chen.


    Audacious!


    Both Xu Ge and Zhao Yan bellowed at the same time. What happened next was a blur.


    In the blink of an eye, Zhao Yan was already holding Song Yi in his grasp while releasing a terrifying ki. The surrounding martial artists felt their limbs going weak, as they vividly sensed how frightening his ki was. It was almost as if they were faced with a ferocious ancient beast.


    Elder Qins hair stood at end, as he felt as if he had met his nemesis. He stared at Zhao Yan in disbelief. <em>Could this young man be a second stage Primal Ki martial artist?!</em>


    It cant be, right? Whats their background? That ki is so terrifying! Is it really primal ki?


    Primal ki? The crowd gasped in shock.


    Primal Ki martial artists were not at the tip of Chillwaters hierarchy, but they were respected as regional powerhouses. Even the Ji n and the Song n would do their best to recruit them while refraining from offending them.


    Y-you are a Primal Ki martial artist Song Yi stared at Zhao Yan with dazed eyes.


    Realization suddenly struck him, and he anxiously turned to Fang Chen with frightened eyes. <em>He has a Primal Ki martial artist serving as his bodyguard?! Just what is his background? Is he an imperial nsman whom I dont know about? </em>


    Young master, please dont hurt my big brother, the woman who hadnt said a word thus far suddenly spoke up with a pleading voice before bowing to Fang Chen.


    Let him go. Fang Chen nodded at Zhao Yan.


    Zhao Yan casually tossed Song Yi aside, and thetter staggered for quite a few steps before he regained his bnce with Elder Qins support.


    Do as she says. Kowtow, and well let this matter go. Fang Chen gestured to Tantai Qingxuan.


    Who are you? Song Yi asked fearfully.


    Dont look into our backgrounds. We arent from Chillwater. We just happen to be passing by. All you need to know is that we can take your lives as easily as ughtering chickens, Li Daoye scoffed impatiently. Miss Qingxuan is good-natured to just demand just three kowtows, so stop wasting time and get along with it. Id have gotten you to kowtow 99 times if I was in her ce.


    <em>They arent from Chillwater? They must be powerhouses from other states! </em>The crowd thought.


    Hesitation flickered across Song Yis face.


    Elder Qin whispered in his ears, It might really be a walk in the park for them to take our lives.


    He wasnt afraid of that woman. Despite having fractured his arm attacking her, he felt that he could hold his ground against her in a battle. The one whom he feared was Zhao Yan. The ki Zhao Yan had emanated earlier hadpletely eroded his fighting will.


    He suspected that Zhao Yan was at second stage Primal Ki. A first stage Aureate Ki martial artist wouldnt stand a chance against such an opponent!


    Song Yi clenched his teeth. Suppressing the rising sense of humiliation, he kneeled onto the floor with his people and kowtowed thrice to Tantai Qingxuan. His body trembled uncontrobly throughout the entire process.


    The surrounding martial artists took in a sharp inhtion of air.


    Such a sight was rare to see. Heck, it was practically unheard of!


    The boat captain arrivedte. When he saw Song Yi and the others kneeling, he gave a tight p to a nearby crewmate and hollered, You piece of shit! What are you doing?


    That was the crewmate who epted the maids silver ingot and tried to give the room away. The crewmate, despite being struck, didnt argue at all. Instead, he stared at Fang Chens group with frightened eyes.


    Is this enough? Song Yi rose to his feet and looked at Tantai Qingxuan with a reddened face. His voice was quivering from the humiliation he felt.


    The maid behind him was left with nothing but fear. She dared not to raise her lowered head.


    Scram, Tantai Qingxuan impassively ordered.


    The captain rushed forward and said, Young master Song, I


    Song Yi ignored the captain and headed off. Surprisingly, he didnt alight from the boat.


    The captain sheepishly smiled. He turned to Fang Chens group and said, My deepest apolo


    Fang Chen and the others paid no heed to the captain. They entered their cabin and closed the door shut behind them.


    They are putting me in a spot


    The captain sighed bitterly. In the end, he vented his anger at the crewmate who greedily epted the silver ingot and caused such a huge mess. He chased the crewmate until thetter was forced to jump into the river.


    After Song Yi returned to their cabin, he eyed the people around him. All of them had lowered their heads, not daring to meet his gaze.


    Big Brother, you shouldnt take this matter to heart. No one will know the woman consoled.


    Song Yis face slowly warped in anger. No one will know? Unless everyone on this boat dies, they will surely gossip about how I, Song Yi, am a coward who fears death when they arrive at the capital. They would talk about how I kowtowed thrice for someone to spare me!


    Young master, our young miss is going to get betrothed to that person in the Ji n. Why dont I travel to the capital ahead of time and request the Ji ns experts to stand up on our behalf? Elder Qin asked.


    Song Yi thought about it and slowly nodded. Thats a good idea. Youll leave ahead of time when were about to arrive at the capital. I dont believe those people can cause a fuss in our capital!


    Indeed. A second stage Primal Ki martial artist is nothing in our capital! The Ji n is filled with such experts. Our young miss future father-inw is a third stage Origin Ki martial artist. Perhaps, we might just be able to convince him to make a move, Elder Qin said.


    Song Yis wrath was assuaged. He wanted to arrive at the capital as soon as possible so that he could return the favor a hundred times over and regain his dignity!

 Chapter 181: Play With Him

    Chapter 181: y With Him


    For the next few days, Fang Chen and the others meditated with crossed legs in their cabin. While none of them had reached a level where they could survive without food, they could still easily function for days without food.


    Fang Chen didnt draw any talismans in the meantime. Instead, he cultivated normally using the Three Thousand Dao Gates initiate manual and slowly absorbed spirit ki from the surroundings.


    Xia Yun and the others secretly observed him. They noticed that Fang Chens cultivation speed was so slow that even Xia Yun, who only evoked two tolls back then, was faster than him.


    This astonished them. They wondered if Fang Chen was putting on an act to avoid revealing his cultivation method. Otherwise, it was unthinkable how someone of such aptitude could be taken in by such a formidable powerhouse?


    What they didnt know was that Fang Chens cultivation talent was indeed at this level. He only progressed fast because his spirit ki capacity would grow each time he depleted his spirit ki. Most of his cultivation talent could be attributed to his strong soul.


    Song Yi spent all his time in his cabin after being humiliated, but his subordinates would walk around every now and then to keep an eye on Fang Chens movements.


    Young master, they have holed themselves up inside their cabin over thest few days, a martial artist respectfully reported to Song Yi.


    These people are surprisingly low profile despite being from a formidable background. I wonder what business they have in our capital. Song Yi frowned.


    Elder Qin looked at the scenery outside and chuckled. Young master, were nearing the capital now. Should I make a move first?


    Elder Qin, Ill be counting on you. Song Yi was delighted to hear that.


    Soon after, Elder Qin left on a smaller boat provided by the captain. Through propagating the boat with his inner ki, he was able to travel at an extremely fast speed, disappearing from sight in the blink of an eye.


    The captain looked nervous. He nced at one of Song Yis subordinates, and thetter snorted, Keep out of this. This matter has nothing to do with you.


    Yes, milord. The captain hurriedly nodded.


    Quite a few martial artists witnessed the sight. They could guess what Elder Qin was up to, and they werent surprised by it either. In the first ce, they never thought that the Song n would take it lying.


    Hourster, the cargo boat docked at a prosperous harbor. Many passenger and cargo boats were stopped here too. Some of these boats were so huge that they looked like a mountain.


    Its been a long time since Ist came to Chillwaters capital, Xia Yun remarked as he looked at the towering city walls in the distance.


    Senior Xia, how far away are we from our destination? Liu Suifeng asked.


    We are quite close now, Xia Yun replied. He turned to Fang Chen and asked, Daoist Fang, should we head there straight or?


    No rush. That ce wont disappear into thin air. Lets settle our Great Xias affairs first, Fang Chen said with a smile.


    Xia Yun and his two juniors nodded, having guessed as much. They would have long lost their patience if it had been anyone else, but Fang Chen had such a huge background that they saw greater benefit from getting on good terms with Fang Chen than to visit the dpidated blessednd.


    This was the reason they had been willing to wait days in the capital for Fang Chen.


    Song Yibed the harbor with his eyes as soon as he alighted from the cargo boat, and he heaved a sigh of relief when he spotted Elder Qins silhouette. He nced at Fang Chen and asked with a chuckle, Shall we alight together?


    Martial artists had begun gathering in the harbor, knowing that something was about to happen. They had noticed that Nightmare Knights were camping in the area, a sign that a higher-up from the Ji n was here.


    He looks so much more confident than before, Tantai Qingxuan remarked with augh. The disdain in her eyes hadnt faded in the least.


    We can y with him. Liu Suifeng chuckled. It looks like well be troubling Daoist Fangs men.


    Im not strong enough to mess with them, though Old Zhao can deal with them easily, Xu Ge said with a pout.


    Zhao Yan nced at Fang Chen. Thetters nod told him what he ought to do. His eyes gleamed with expectation. This was the first time he had traveled so far away from home since learning martial arts.


    Now that he was at Chillwaters capital, he was curious to know how his means measured up against Chillwater''s pinnacle Earth Profound realm martial artists. <em>I wonder who will be stronger.</em>


    Song Yi saw that Fang Chen and the others werent paying attention, so he snorted in derision before alighting from the cargo boat first.


    Brother Song Yi, its been a long time.


    A bunch of dignified young people dressed in silk fineries walked up and weed him. All of them were powerful martial artists.


    Their leader exuded an aura that was no weaker than Elder Qins, but he was around the same age as Ji Lengyue. He revealed a warm smile upon seeing Song Yi and his younger sister.


    Brother Lengxing! Song Yi stepped forward and warmly weed Ji Lengxing and the bunch of Ji nsmen he had brought with him.


    Brother Song Yi, Sister Song Hui, this is the Forgotten Sea Sword Sects Xu Qingfeng. Ji Lengxing gestured to the expressionless young man standing beside him, who looked to be slightly older than the others.


    Xu Qingfeng? Song Yi was startled. He turned to the expressionless young man and eximed, Youre Pristine Sword King Xu Qingfeng?


    Youre too polite. Thats just a title others call me by. Brother Song, you may just address me as Qingfeng, Xu Qingfeng replied with a smile, though his voice carried a hint of glee.


    Ji Lengxing chuckled. Dont be so humble. Only a small handful of people in our Chillwater have reached second stage Primal Ki at your age.


    He then turned to Song Yi and asked, I heard from Elder Qin that you got into a conflict with someone while riding on the cargo boat?


    Indeed. Song Yi nodded.


    I see. I was hosting Brother Xu in my residence when we heard about the matter, so we came over together. Point that person out to us. Lets see who is so brazen as to darey a hand on the Song nsmen, Ji Lengyue said.


    Fang Chen and the others happened to be alighting from the boat then, so Song Yi gestured to them and said, Brother Lengxing, those are the people who attacked us. They arent from our Chillwater.


    It doesnt matter which country they are from. They ought to obey our rules now that they are in Chillwater, Ji Lengxing sneered.


    With a wave of his hands, countless Nightmare Knights rushed forth and sealed off the harbor. The vendors, sailors, merchants, and passengers were all shocked by thismotion.


    The Song n really got the Ji n to make a move!


    Those people are over.


    The martial artists who traveled with Fang Chen and the others murmured among themselves.


    The Nightmare Knights surrounded Fang Chens group, and their leader eyed them loftily. Young master Lengxing wants to talk to you. Follow us.


    Song Yis eyes gleamed with excitement as he watched as Fang Chens group was being escorted over to their side. He was finally able to repay them for his humiliation!

 Chapter 182: The Unmoving Pristine King

    Chapter 182: The Unmoving Pristine King


    Who are those people? The Ji n actually went so far as to seal off the entire capital harbor to deal with them!


    Hush. This is a battle among powerhouses. Small fries like us should stay out of it, lest it bring trouble to us.


    I rode on the same boat as them. They arent Chillwaters martial artists. They forced those Song nsmen to kowtow to them and apologize while they were on the boat.


    What?!


    Such a thing happened? Those fellows are courting death! No wonder the Ji n is making a move. Dont they know that the Ji n is backing the Song n?


    But these martial artists arent weak either. They have a second stage Primal Ki martial artist with them!


    A Primal Ki martial artist Such a person would be considered an expert even in the capital.


    The crowd frowned. Primal Ki martial artists were regional powerhouses in Chillwater; most of them were old ancestors of established sects or ns, and they rarely appeared in public.


    So what if hes at second stage Primal Ki? Even third stage Origin Ki martial artists wouldnt dare to mess with the Ji n. Longevity Ki martial artists might be able to do that, but there are only a small handful of such experts in our Chillwater.


    Did you see that person? Hes the Forgotten Sea Sword Sects Xu Qingfeng, also known as the Unmoving Pristine King. Those people are dead meat!


    The crowd muttered amid themselves while looking at Fang Chens group. It was only when Fang Chen and the others arrived before Ji Lengxing did the chatter finally halt.


    Song Yi stared at Fang Chen and Zhao Yan before suddenly saying with a smile, Let me introduce to you. This is the Ji ns young master Ji Lengxing.


    You have business with me? Fang Chen asked.


    Song Yis smile further brightened as he thought that Fang Chen was feigning ignorance out of fear. Youre asking me that? Have you forgotten what happened on the boat?


    Oh. Fang Chen nodded in realization. Youre talking about me making you kowtow thrice?


    Song Yis face darkened. Killing intent shed across his eyes.


    But before he could say a word, Ji Lengxing stepped forward and coldly eyed Fang Chen and the others. In the end, he looked at Fang Chen and said, Are you the leader of this group?


    Xia Yun and the others exchanged looks before nodding.


    You can say so. Fang Chen nodded.


    Good. Lets talk things out then. I dont know your grudge with Brother Song Yi, but you shouldnt have made him kowtow thrice. Our Ji n has always been on good terms with the Song n, and Brother Song Yi specially made a trip here to escort his younger sister, Song Hui, to marry my younger brother, Ji Lengxing said. It is a joyous asion, but you spoiled the mood by embarrassing Brother Song Yi. Dont you think you owe us an exnation?


    What kind of exnation do you want? Fang Chen replied.


    We, from Chillwater, arent in the habit of making things difficult for outsiders. Many important individuals from other grade-8 states are also here at the moment to discuss something important, so I dont want to blow things up. I want the seven of you to kowtow thirty times to Brother Song Yi here, and well call it quits, Ji Lengxing said.


    He turned to Song Yi and asked, Brother Song Yi, do you think its appropriate to deal with this matter like that? Will it be enough to vent your frustration?


    Yes, its appropriate, Song Yi sneered.


    Thats good. Ji Lengxing turned back to Fang Chen and the others. Many people are depending on our capital harbor to make a living, so lets not waste time and quickly resolve this matter.


    Song Yis maid smirked gloatingly. She looked at Tantai Qingxuan with provocative eyes.


    Tantai Qingxuan frowned. She turned to Fang Chen and asked, Daoist Fang Chen, why dont you leave this matter to me?


    In truth, Ji Lengxing and the others had been paying a close eye to Tantai Qingxuan due to her outstanding looks, but they had to take a hard stand so as to restore Song Yis honor here. Now that Tantai Qingxuan had spoken up, Ji Lengxing looked at her with a gentle smile and said, Young miss, this matter doesnt seem to have anything to do with you, so you dont have to kowtow here. Just the other six will do.


    Pft! Li Daoye burst intoughter.


    Liu Suifeng also had a mocking smile. Clearly, this was not the first time he had encountered such a situation.


    Junior Sister, you should consider veiling your face. These mortals always find their feet glued to the ground whenever they see you, Liu Suifeng said with a chuckle.


    Who are you calling a mortal? One of the Ji nsmen next to Ji Lengxing was infuriated. <em>How dare they insult us when they are clearly cornered? They are looking to be killed!</em>


    Miss Tantai, let Zhao Yan handle this. Martial artists against martial artists; lets not bully them, Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    Fine. Tantai Qingxuan nodded.


    Ji Lengxings face slowly turned cold. It looks like you dont intend to resolve it amicably?


    Brother Lengxing, theres no need to waste your breath with them. Let me see what their second stage Primal Ki martial artist is capable of. Xu Qingfeng eyed Zhao Yan, and he couldnt hold himself back anymore. He stepped forward with a grin,


    Ji Lengxing and the others nodded before taking a step back.


    Youll be my opponent? Zhao Yan asked.


    Are you getting afraid? Pristine King Sword Xu Qingfeng is the chief disciple of the Forgotten Sea Sword Sect, Chillwaters number one sword sect! Song Yi sneered.


    Youll be kowtowing again very soon. Zhao Yan nced at Song Yi with sympathetic eyes and sighed. He turned to Xu Qingfeng and said, Let me have a taste of your de.


    Xu Qingfengs aura immediately changed. A powerful surge of primal ki flowed around him, such that even ordinary mortals could sense the change in his disposition.


    ng!


    It was the sound of a de emerging from its sheath.


    Xu Qingfeng had suddenly transformed into the Unmoving Pristine King in an instant. His terrifying aura enveloped the entire capital harbor.


    The Unmoving Pristine King Sword was the Forgotten Sea Sects ultimate skill. It was rumored that those who mastered it could glimpse into Heaven Profound realm!


    I see. Zhao Yan nodded.


    Following that, he also exuded the same aura as Xu Qingfeng, but his aura was even purer. Two Unmoving Pristine Kings had appeared in the capital harbor, but it was clear to even theyman that Zhao Yan was the superior one.


    Zhao Yan used his finger as a de and released a sweeping sh.


    Xu Qingfengs de shattered all over the ground, and he was forced to retreat thirteen steps. Blood furiously gushed from his mouth. He stared at Zhao Yan in disbelief as he blurted out, How do you know my sects ultimate skill?


    Zhao Yans breathing had already reverted to normal by then, but they still vividly remembered what they had seen earlier. What he had executed earlier was indeed Xu Qingfengs skill.


    Elder Qin was taken aback. <em>To think that even the Forgotten Sea Sword Sects chief disciple isnt Zhao Yans match.</em>


    Ji Lengxing was startled too, but he quickly snapped out of his daze. He first ordered someone to support Xu Qingfeng before slowly retreating with his nsmen. At the same time, the surrounding Nightmare Knights rushed in to further encircle Fang Chen and the others so as to cover their retreat.


    How is this possible Song Yi murmured.

 Chapter 183: I’ll Grant Your Wish

    Chapter 183: I¡¯ll Grant Your Wish


    Zhao Yan had only used the means of a second stage Primal Ki martial artist, so Ji Lengxing wasnt intimidated by Zhao Yan despite being surprised by Xu Qingfengs defeat.


    Ji Lengxing looked at Fang Chen and calmly said, You must be from a grade-8 state to be under the protection of such a powerful Primal Ki martial artist. Where are you from? Redsky? Heavenroc? Or Vastsea?


    Xu Ge narrowed his eyes. Of the grade-8 states that were named, he only knew Vastsea, as that was Greenpines superior state. During the battle at the Three Realms Mountain, it was due to Vastseas Earth Profound realm assassin defeating Fang Chen that the situation took a turn for the worse, and they fell into defeat.


    Li Daoye and the others were cultivators, so they werent familiar with these states, and there was no need for them to familiarize themselves with them either. Only grade-6 states and those above were worthy of their attention.


    There were no cultivators in grade-9, grade-8, and grade-7 states, after all.


    Even if there were cultivators who chose to settle down in those states, such as in the case of Chillwaters Ji n, those people were unaffiliated cultivators without aplete heritage. They werent officially recognized in the world of cultivation.


    Ji Lengxing thought he had hit the nail on the head, so he said, Heavenroc, Redsky, and Vastseas envoys have already reached Chillwater and are currently discussing Great Xias advancement to grade-8. Are you here to meet up with them?


    The faces of Song Yi and the others turned awful.


    If Fang Chen was a powerhouse from a grade-8 state too, they might not be able to get even with him today.


    They are already here to discuss Great Xias advancement to grade-8? Fang Chen chuckled. I wonder if they have decided on their course of action yet.


    Ji Lengxing impassively replied, Great Xia doesnt have the foundation of a grade-8 state, yet it brazenly deres itself as such. Naturally, the four countries will be teaching it a lesson.


    Xia Yun frowned. <em>Chillwater hasnt learned from its lesson. Ji Lengyue is still serving as a hostage in Great Xia, but they are already trying to liaise with the other grade-8 states to go after Great Xia?</em>


    Just then, the encirclement opened up, and a few figures strutted over. Standing at the forefront of this group was a middle-aged man whomanded a stern disposition.


    Song Yi was overjoyed. He recognized the middle-aged man to be Ji Junhua, one of the stronger experts in the Ji ns second generation. He was also Ji Lengxings father, which made him their future inw!


    Ji Lengxing breathed a relieved sigh. He had been stalling for his fathers arrival, knowing that thetter would have been rmed by the sh between Zhao Yan and Xu Qingfeng.


    Song Yi, Song Hui, are your parents doing fine? I hope Old Master Song is faring well, Ji Junhua said with a heartyugh as he strutted over.


    Song Yi and the other hurriedly bowed.


    Ji Junhua was apanied by a young man who shared some resemnce to Ji Lengxing. Ji Junhua nced at the young man before he turned back to Song Hui and said, I know it isnt appropriate for the two of you to meet under such circumstances considering you arent wedded yet, but Lengxiao insisted on tagging along because he was worried about your safety.


    Song Hui looked at Ji Lengxiao before hurriedly lowering her reddened face.


    Ji Lengxiao responded with a sheepish smile.


    Father Ji Lengxing quickly stepped forward and exined the situation.


    Ji Junhua nodded. He first eyed Xu Qingfeng before his gaze fell on Zhao Yan. Its rare for someone as young as you to be able to defeat Pristine King Sword Xu Qingfeng. May I know who your master is?


    Theres no point knowing who my master is, Zhao Yan replied with a cid smile.


    He isnt revealing his master. Is he worried about the Ji ns vengeance?


    It looks like they arent as fearless as they seem.


    The crowd gossiped.


    Thats fine by me too. May I know who is he to you? Someone of your martial cultivation need not bend your head to another, Ji Junhua eyed Fang Chen as he asked.


    He is my young master, Zhao Yan replied.


    The crowd was baffled. Those words suggested that Fang Chen was of a lofty standing, especially when it wasing from a second stage Primal Ki martial artist like Zhao Yan. This made the crowd increasingly curious about Fang Chens background.


    He is Ji Lengxing, and he is Ji Lengxiao. Could it be that you have a son named Ji Lengyue too? Fang Chen suddenly asked with a smile.


    The crowd was startled.


    Ji Junhua narrowed his eyes. You know about my eldest son?


    As I expected. Fang Chen burst intoughter.


    Young friend, where are you from? Heavenroc? Redsky? Vastsea? Ji Junhua calmly asked. Are your elders already in the pce?


    Lets put aside my background for now. Id like to ask one questionis your Ji n going to stand up for these people? Did they not tell you that it was his maid who first provoked us on the cargo boat? Fang Chen asked. Im already being merciful by just asking for three kowtows.


    The crowd fell silent. Song Yis face reddened out of sheer humiliation.


    Ji Junhua first eyed Song Hui and Ji Lengxiao before bursting intoughter. He slowly pped his hands and said, Interesting! Not even Heavenroc, Redsky, and Vastseas imperial nsmen would dare humiliate our Ji n in Chillwater!


    Ji Junhua stomped his feet, and the ground immediately shattered.


    Countless rocks were swept up by a terrifying force and floated mid-air. Without any warning, these rocks shot toward Fang Chens group like bullets.


    Zhao Yan casually waved his hand in response. Through his precise maniption of inner ki, he redirected the trajectories of the rock bullets toward the sea behind him, raising towering waves that went as high as over thirty meters.


    The crowd felt stifling pressure.


    Not bad. How about this? Ji Junhua said with augh.


    He released his origin ki, which made him look like a deity in the mortal world. He sent a deluge of his origin ki toward Zhao Yan, intending to crush thetter through sheer might.


    Yet


    Zhao Yan flitted forth, grabbed him, and tossed him aside.


    A series of loud bams ensued, as Ji Junhuas body crashed through multiple giant boats before falling into the sea.


    The world descended into silence.


    The crowd widened their eyes in disbelief. <em>How could a third stage Origin Ki martial artist like Ji Junhua be flung off just like that?!</em>


    H-he is a third stage Origin Ki martial artist too Elder Qin stuttered in horror.


    Ji Lengxing and the others were horrified. They immediately retreated fifty meters away from Zhao Yan out of fear that thetter would take their lives.


    No wonder I lost. I was up against an Origin Ki martial artist. Xu Qingfengsplexion recovered a little.


    How can he be an Origin Ki martial artist? This doesnt make any sense Song Yis face turned livid. He red at Fang Chen with incredulous eyes. <em>If Zhao Yan is a third stage Origin Ki martial artist who in the world can Fang Chen be?</em>


    Before he could think deeper into it, Ji Junhua emerged from the sea andnded on a nearby ships mast. He had a severe look on his face. I didnt know you were an Origin Ki martial artist. I got careless. Again!


    Ill grant your wish. Zhao Yanughed as he stepped forth.


    Each step he took easily covered over thirty meters. It only took a couple of steps for him to cover the distance between him and Ji Junhua.


    Ji Junhua immediately prepared to make his move, only to be intimidated by the terrifying yet familiar auraing from Zhao Yan. <em>Longevity Ki?!</em>


    While he was in a daze, Zhao Yan had already grabbed his neck as if he was a little fawn. Furthermore, his origin ki waspletely suppressed by Zhao Yans longevity ki, rendering him helpless.

 Chapter 184: Probing

    Chapter 184: Probing


    The crowd dared not to utter a word.


    Ji Lengxings face turned ghastly pale. The Ji nsmen around him were dumbstruck.


    The nearby Nightmare Knights were anxious, but Zhao Yan was already holding Ji Junhua hostage and could kill thetter whenever he liked. They dared not to make a reckless move lest they endanger Ji Junhuas safety.


    Fellow Longevity Ki master, please spare my sons life. Allow me to apologize on his behalf if he has offended you, a resounding voice suddenly echoed in the capital.


    The crowds lower jaws ckened.


    <em>That is the voice of the Ji ns patriarch, Ji Congyun! And he mentioned Longevity Ki?!</em>


    The crowd stiffened up. They stiffly turned their heads to look at Zhao Yan with shocked eyes.


    <em>This young man is at pinnacle Earth Profound realm, a fourth stage Longevity Ki martial artist?! And for someone to have a Longevity Ki martial artist as a bodyguard </em>


    The crowd looked at Fang Chen with furiously beating hearts. <em>Who in the world is he?! Whats his background?!</em>


    Song Yi felt like his world had just been overturned. He felt utter regret right now. There was no way he would have continued provoking Fang Chens group if he had known that Zhao Yan was a fourth stage Longevity Ki martial artisthe had practically courted his own doom!


    Song Yis maid was also bbergasted. Her face was as pale as a sheet of paper. She looked at Fang Chens group with a mixture of fear and horror.


    Longevity Ki? How could he be a Longevity Ki martial artist? Is he from a grade-7 superior state? Ji Lengxing stared at Fang Chen with dazed eyes.


    The sense of superiority he had felt from his lofty birth disappeared without a trace. Even he was nowhere near qualified to have a Longevity Ki martial artist as his bodyguard.


    He had once seen someone who had such privileged treatment, and the other party was from a grade-7 state!


    Ji Lengxing felt envious. He quietly swore that he would eventually lift the Ji n to such heights as well, but that was a matter for the distant future. After all, the Ji n still didnt have a single Heaven Profound realm martial artist to date.


    The martial artists, crewmates, and passengers who had traveled on the same cargo boat as Fang Chens group trembled in fear. They thought that Fang Chen had messed with the wrong people, but it turned out that it was Song Yi who messed with the wrong people!


    The Ji ns encirclement of the capital harbor suddenly looked like a joke.


    Now, the crowd was curious to see how the Ji ns patriarch intended to wrap up this matter.


    Zhao Yan continued holding Ji Junhua in his hand as he flitted back to Fang Chens side. Young master, a Longevity Ki is rushing over with three Origin Kis.


    I sense a familiar aura Is that the assassin from Vastsea? Fang Chens lips curled in a smile.


    Hm?


    The crowd btedly realized that Fang Chens eyes had remained closed all this while.


    Young master, how do you intend to deal with Vastseas assassin? Xu Ge gritted his teeth, knowing that Fang Chen was referring to the hidden expert who assaulted him in the Three Realms Mountain, which led to Great Xias tragic defeat.


    Hes the appetizer, Fang Chen replied. Well properly settle the score with Vastsea soon.


    Xu Ge was excited to hear that. He couldnt wait for that to happen.


    Xia Yun and the others frowned.


    They didnt think it was wise for cultivators like them to get involved with secr affairs, as it would hinder their future cultivation. It might not be apparent while they were at Ki Refinement, but once they reached Foundation Establishment, they would have to conquer an inner ordeal to advance to the next stage.


    The less karma they rued, the easier it was for them to ovee their inner ordeal.


    Conversely, those who were heavily involved with secr affairs had a higher tendency to suffer from a cultivation deviation. Should they fail their inner ordeal, their cultivation would stagnate at that level.


    That was the reason Xia Yun turned a blind eye to secr affairs. Even if Great Xia was destroyed one day, he would simply attribute it to the natural flow of the world.


    Just like how the Great Xias founding emperor stumbled upon immortals ying chess and transformed from an ordinary cowherd into the emperor, everything had already been ordained by fate!


    The crowd didnt have to wait long before Ji Congyun arrived at the capital harbor with a group of people.


    These people were dressed in all kinds of clothes. In particr, one of the third stage Origin Ki martial artists carried two sabers on their waist, one long and one short.


    Old Master!


    Ji Lengxing and the others breathed a sigh of relief as they respectfully bowed to Ji Congyun. They felt that this matter could be resolved now that Ji Congyun was here.


    Ji Congyun harrumphed. He nced at Zhao Yan and said, Friend, release my son. There might have been some misunderstanding. Lets talk things out.


    Zhao Yan chuckled. Im not the one who calls the shots here. You should ask my young master instead.


    <em>Young master? </em>Ji Congyun and the others frowned. They turned their attention to Fang Chen and the others, and two of their faces swiftly warped in shock.


    One was Ji Congyun. The other one was a first stage Aureate Ki martial artist, who stood behind the third stage Origin Ki martial artist with two sabers.


    Its you Ji Congyun stared at Fang Chen in incredulity. He could hardly believe that he would meet thetter here.


    Father (Grandfather), you know that person? Ji Junhua and Ji Lengxing were taken aback.


    Elder Ji, we meet again. Ji Lengyue is faring well on my side. You should visit him when you have time, Fang Chen said.


    <em>Ji Lengyue?!</em>


    The mention of Ji Lengyue once more baffled Ji Junhua and the others, but they quickly put the two and two together and gasped in shock.


    Youre Great Xias War God Fang Chen! Ji Lengxing blurted out.


    <em>Great Xias War God? </em>


    Many emotions flickered across the crowds faces. None of them could have imagined that the person before them would actually be Great Xias War God Fang Chen.


    The tiny grade-9 state that used to serve as their Chillwaters vassal had boldly dered their advancement to grade-8. That matter had caused great contention in Chillwater. The popces nationalistic emotions were evoked, and they wanted Chillwater to dispatch an army to suppress Great Xia.


    How dare that fellow step onto our soil?!


    Audacious!


    No wonder Great Xia has be brazen! It turns out they have a Longevity Ki martial artist too! But so what? Our Chillwater has more than one Longevity Ki martial artist. A measly Great Xia cant hope to match us!


    Lets kill their Longevity Ki martial artist here and seal their fate!


    The crowd murmured. They werent just spectators anymore; all of them had chosen to stand with their country.


    Ji Congyun narrowed his eyes.


    The three Origin Ki martial artists and their subordinates assessed Fang Chen as they pondered their next move.


    Fang Chen, you might be strong, but youre now in our Chillwater. There are two other Longevity Ki martial artists here in seclusion training. Arent you worried that I might work with them to keep you here? Ji Congyun slowly spoke up with a seemingly joking tone.


    He was trying to probe Fang Chens depth.


    Daoist Fang, it looks like a Longevity Ki martial artist isnt enough to intimidate them. Xia Yun suddenlyughed. He manifested a fireball in his hand and hurled it at the sea behind him.


    Boom!


    A humongous inferno gushed into the sky.


    The crowd watched as a huge swathe of the sea was instantaneously vaporized. For a moment there, they wondered if they were dreaming.


    <em>What if that fireball was targeted toward us? </em>That thought sent shivers down the crowds spines.


    Ji Congyun was horrified. He finally looked at Xia Yun and the others with grim eyes as he came to a conclusion that terrified even him. <em>All of these people are immortals!</em>

 Chapter 185: You’re Done? It’s My Turn

    Chapter 185: You¡¯re Done? It¡¯s My Turn


    Theres no stopping Great Xias rise anymore Ji Congyun murmured as he suppressed the shock in his heart. As he silently heaved a helpless sigh, he put on a smile and sped his fist. War God Fang, you arrived just on time. I have alreadye to an agreement with Heavenroc, Redsky, and Vastseas envoys to confirm Great Xias qualification to advance to grade-8.


    The crowd was stunned. This oue was beyond them, but they dared not to get involved. They could only murmur their dissatisfaction in their minds. <em>What right does Great Xia have to advance to grade-8?</em>


    Song Yis face was the palest of all. Even Ji Congyun, the Ji ns patriarch, had chosen to lower his head to Fang Chen. This meant that not even the Ji n could protect him today.


    Patriarch Ji, thats not what we have discussed. Are you intimidated by their little tricks? the Vastsea third stage Origin Ki martial artist spoke up as he coldly eyed Fang Chen.


    How can a weak country that was once defeated by Greenpine have the right to be a grade-8 state? Thats a title reserved for the strong, not for weak cowards. The strength of a nation is a holistic assessment; it doesnt bank on having a single Longevity Ki martial artist. Otherwise, the title of a grade-8 state will be cheapened.


    The Chillwater civilians present were delighted to hear those words. They themselves were proud of their title as a grade-8 state. That prompted them to look at Fang Chen and the others in disdain.


    Ji Congyuns face stiffened up.


    To garner Vastsea, Heavenroc, and Redskys help to suppress Great Xia, he and Chillwaters emperor had refrained from informing the three grade-8 states that Great Xia was backed by immortals, fearing that they would back down out of fear.


    And clearly, this Vastsea Origin Ki martial artist had nevere into contact with any immortals before, so he couldnt tell that Xia Yuns earlier fireball wasnt mere trickery.


    Why arent you saying a word, the loser of a defeated state? The Vastsea Origin Ki martial artist looked at Fang Chen with a derisive sneer.


    Xu Ge was infuriated. Li Daoye rubbed his palms together. The two of them looked at the Vastsea Origin Ki martial artist with cold smiles, knowing that Fang Chen wouldnt allow him to walk out of here alive.


    Whats your name? Fang Chen calmly asked.


    Zhengye Haonan! the Vastsea Origin Ki martial artist replied. Our Zhengye n has two Longevity Ki old ancestors!


    Two Longevity Ki old ancestors?!


    No wonder he dares to say such words.


    Great Xia should be terrified now! I reckon they only have two Longevity Ki martial artists at most. Just the Longevity Ki martial artists of our four states would be enough to purge them!


    The crowd murmured.


    Song Yis eyes lit up with hope.


    Fang Chen and the others might not be able to touch him if Vastsea was willing to intervene.


    Your Vastsea has Three Great nsBaqi, Duanwu, and Zhengye. I believe your Zhengye n is the weakest of the Three Great ns? In fact, your Zhengye n and the Duanwu n serve to support Baqi, am I right? Fang Chen asked.


    Zhengye Haonan narrowed his eyes. It looks like you have investigated our Vastsea.


    Indeed. Fang Chenughed. Back then, I naively thought that even if a superior state interferes in a war between subordinate states, they would still hold back. Great Xia used to be Chillwaters vassal state, after all, and it pays tribute to thetter every year.


    However, Chillwater was blind and deaf to the battle at the Three Realms Mountain. They knew about Vastseas involvement, but they refused to make a move. That was the moment I realized that it is futile to rely on others.


    Ji Congyun maintained an impassive face, but Ji Lengxing and the others frowned.


    In truth, Chillwater hade to an agreement with Vastsea over this matter. To put it bluntly, Chillwater had sold Great Xia out for a decent price


    Indignant howls from a loser. Do you dare cross blows with me once more right now? If you lose, I suggest you obediently retreat to your Great Xia and never raise the idea of advancing to grade-8 ever again. Your Great Xia will never be qualified! the first stage Aureate Ki martial artist standing behind Zhengye Haonan suddenly spoke up.


    The crowd turned to the Aureate Ki martial artist with perplexed looks. <em>Did he cross blows with Fang Chen before?</em>


    Xia Yun and the others narrowed their eyes.


    They could tell from context that this was the man who assaulted Fang Chen in the Three Realms Mountains, thus helping Greenpine secure its victory. Due to him, Great Xia lost six hundred thousand soldiers.


    Ah, I nearly forgot. Zhengye Haonan gestured to the Aureate Ki martial artist with a smile. This is our Zhengye ns offspring who easily defeated Great Xias so-called War God back then, Zhengye Yinggui! He is a capable one. He was only sixteen five years ago, but he has already reached Aureate Ki. He is now at pinnacle Aureate Ki, just a step away from Primal Ki.


    The crowd was taken aback.


    <em>A 16-year-old Aureate Ki martial artist? Not to mention, hes only 21 this year, but hes already on the verge of reaching Primal Ki? At this rate, he should reach Origin Ki by 45!</em>


    <em>This is a potential Longevity Ki martial artist in the making!</em>


    Zhengye Yingguiughed as he walked up to Fang Chen. Loser, do you dare fight me?


    Young master, Ill deal with him, Zhao Yan said.


    Zhengye Yinggui sneered, Youre a Longevity Ki martial artist. Dont be in such a rush; we have plenty of Longevity Ki martial artists to deal with you. Its unseemly for someone of your stature to bully the weak.


    A load of bull. Didnt you do the same back at the Three Realms Mountain? Xu Ge berated.


    Zhengye Yingguiughed arrogantly. I was 16 then, two years younger than Fang Chen.


    Enough. Lets not waste time on words, Fang Chen said with a smile. Zhao Yan and Xu Ge immediately shut their mouths. Fang Chen then turned to Zhengye Yinggui and said, I have waited years for this day.


    Is that so? Make your move. Zhengye Yinggui was unfazed by Fang Chens words.


    His aureate ki furiously surged out as he drew both of his sabers. The crowd saw two brilliant shes of light crashing down on Fang Chen with lightning bolts.


    That was the move Fang Chen had lost to back at the Three Realms Mountain. Five years had passed since, but Zhengye Yinggui was still confident that Fang Chen would be defeated by the same move.


    Zhengye Haonan nodded in approval of his juniors saber art. He was so confident that things would go his way that he didnt notice Ji Congyuns look of resignation.


    <em>This offspring of the Zhengye n is going to die today. </em>Ji Congyun shook his head.


    The same move. Fang Chen shook his head with a smile.


    He didnt bother moving in the least, allowing the two saber strikes tond squarely on him.


    Bam!


    To the crowds shock, Zhengye Yingguis attack was blocked by some kind of unknown energy. He failed to sever even a single one of Fang Chens hair, let alone hurt him.


    Impossible! Zhengye Yinggui was shocked.


    He quickly swung his saber once more, but the oue was the sameFang Chen was unharmed!


    This cant be! Zhengye Yinggui roared in disbelief.


    He continued hacking down on Fang Chen again and again.


    Twenty secondster, Zhengye Yinggui had already expended almost half of his aureate ki, but he found that he couldnt hurt Fang Chen at all. This bewildering situation nted a seed of fear in his heart, and he unwittingly retreated a few steps.


    Are you done? Its my turn, Fang Chen said with a smile.

 Chapter 186: Let’s Continue Our Conversation

    Chapter 186: Let¡¯s Continue Our Conversation


    Fang Chen didnt cast any mystic art, instead merely dishing out a simple palm strike.


    Yet, it left Zhengye Yinggui feeling greatly threatened, as if he had caught the eye of a dangerous being. He instinctively turned around and fled.


    But before he could take even a single step, the aureate ki protecting him was shattered by Fang Chens spirit ki, and his body exploded on the spot. Blood sttered along with his flesh and bone smithereens.


    The surroundings plunged into silence.


    Vastseas martial artists were infuriated. <em>One of our talented offspring is killed just like that?</em>


    He is an immortal. Ji Congyun finally confirmed this fact, and that made his heart swell with regret. Had he known this would happen, he wouldnt have spared Fang Zhentian back then!


    There was not a sliver of doubt in his mind that the Fang n woulde after him for what he had done back then.


    How dare you! Zhengye Haonan lost his temper and drew his sabers too.


    Fang Chen instantaneously manifested a fireball at his fingertip and released it upon Zhengye Haonan. The third stage Origin Ki martial artist was reduced to cinders just like that; he didnt even get a chance to struggle at all.


    Kill every single one of Vastseas martial artists, Fang Chen ordered.


    Yes, young master. Zhao Yan nodded.


    He flitted forth like a specter, reaping away the lives of Vastseas martial artists with sharp and precise movements.


    Ji Congyun dared not to stop him. Redsky and Heavenrocs martial artists also chose to prioritize their own safety.


    Within fifteen seconds, the fifty Vastsea martial artists who hade here with Zhengye Haonan were all dead.


    The surroundings fell silent.


    The crowd subconsciously suppressed their breathing to make it as quiet as possible, fearing that they would draw Fang Chens ire next. All of them looked at Fang Chen with eyes filled with fear and horror.


    War God Fang, why dont you have a seat at my manor now that the misunderstanding has been cleared up? Ji Congyun said with a strained smile.


    How should he be dealt with? Fang Chen pointed at Song Yi.


    Song Yi and his little sister were scared out of their wits. Sweat flowed profusely from their foreheads.


    Elder Qin even kneeled down and kowtowed, pleading, Young hero, please spare us. Our young master is just too young and hasnt been through much. Please give him a chance to turn over a new leaf. I did it all on my own ord


    It went without saying that Ji Lengxing and the others wouldnt dare to speak up for Song Yis group anymore.


    The pale-faced Song Yi slowly got to his knees and said, Ill ept any fate that befalls me. It was my idea to call the Ji n over too. This has nothing to do with Elder Qin. He is merely our Song ns servant and had no choice but to do my bidding.


    Dont say that, young master! This is all my fault. Things wouldnt have blown up if I hadnt called the Ji n over, Elder Qin cried with a pale face.


    Ill take responsibility for my own actions, Song Yi said with a tragic smile. I was the one who offended someone I shouldnt have, so I ought to take responsibility for my actions. I dont want to be mocked by others even after my death and bring shame to the Song n.


    Song Hui looked at Ji Lengxiao with pleading eyes, but thetter shook his head with a bitter look. Even Ji Congyun had to bow down to Fang Chen; how could he dare to speak up at this juncture?


    Fang Chen eyed Song Yi before turning to Tantai Qingxuan. Miss Tantai, how do you think we should deal with him?


    Let him kneel here for ten days. Hes not to take any food or water, Tantai Qingxuan coldly replied.


    The crowd was startled. Elder Qin revealed a look of delight.


    Song Yi couldnt believe what he was hearing. <em>They are sparing my life?</em>


    Hear that? Kneel here, Fang Chen said.


    Understood! Song Yi hurriedly nodded. As long as he could live, he wouldnt hesitate to kneel here even for a month. As for his tarnished reputation what did that count aspared to his life?


    This matter is settled then, Fang Chen said before turning to Ji Congyun. Now why did Chillwater turn a blind eye when Vastseas martial artist interfered in the battle at the Three Realms Mountain back then? Elder Ji, you should know something about that, no?


    Ji Congyun was startled, but he didnt let it show on his face. Our Chillwater didnt receive news about it. By the time we learned about it, it was already toote


    Are you taking me for a fool? Fang Chen sharply interjected. I am aware of how your Chillwater dealt with this matter afterward. You should tell me the truth, lest this matter implicate the innocent.


    Ji Congyun looked conflicted, for this matter concerned Chillwaters imperial family. He spent seconds in silence before finally nodding. Im ashamed to say this, but Chillwater did receive news about that matter. However, our crown prince is on good terms with Vastseas Zhengye n, and he hade to an agreement with them to not interfere in this matter.


    Chillwaters crown prince? Fang Chen murmured before nodding. He looked toward the nearby capital before saying, Lets go. I want to meet your crown prince.


    In Chillwaters imperial pce, the emperor, the crown prince, and the officials were waiting in the imperial court for Ji Congyuns group to return. They had been discussing how they should deal with Great Xia when amotion broke out at the capital harbor.


    The emperor frowned impatiently as he looked toward the capital harbor.


    Father, theres no need to worry. Elder Ji will suppress whoevers causing trouble at the capital harbor, Chillwaters crown prince said with a smile.


    Im not worried; Im exhausted. The emperor waved his hand in annoyance as he continued waiting.


    Shortlyter, the eunuch outside the imperial court announced that Ji Congyun and the others had returned. That perked up the emperor.


    A group of people entered the imperial court right after.


    To the officials bewilderment, Zhengye Haonan and all of Vastseas martial artists had disappeared without a trace. Instead, there were a few foreign faces in the crowd.


    Ji Congyun, who are they? Wheres Zhengye Haonan? the emperor asked with a frown.


    The crown prince warily eyed Fang Chen and the others.


    With a grim face, Ji Congyun sped his fist and said, I have with me esteemed guests from Great Xia. This man over here is none other than Great Xias War God Fang Chen.


    <em>Great Xias War God? </em>


    The officials were baffled. It was a moment ago that they were discussing how they should deal with Great Xia, but Great Xias War God was now standing before them. This was too much of a coincidence!


    The crown prince narrowed his eyes, but before he could speak


    I heard from Elder Ji that Chillwaters crown prince made a deal with Vastsea, and thats why Chillwater turned a blind eye to our battle at the Three Realms Mountain? Fang Chen asked.


    The crown prince was startled.


    The emperors face darkened. Audacious! Are you here to question our Chillwater? Have you forgotten your ce?


    Your Majesty, Fang Chen is an immortal. These people are all immortals, Ji Congyun said.


    <em>Immortals?! </em>


    The crowd was startled. Even the emperor looked shaken up. They werent foreign to the existence of immortals, as they knew that the Ji n had been worshiping one themselves. Their Nightmare Steeds were acquired through the guidance of that immortal.


    Answer my question, Fang Chen said. Utter any falsehood, and there shant be peace in the imperial court today.


    Ki ki ki a sinisterugh echoed.


    An old man slowly walked into the imperial court.


    The emperor and the others blurted out in shock when they saw the old man, Old Ancestor?!


    The old man looked unkempt like a madman. His eyes, which were concealed beneath his long fringe, were fixated on Fang Chens group as he said, Ji Congyun, are you siding with outsiders now? Your Ji n cant hold still anymore and has decided to stage a rebellion?


    Daoist Xia, kill him, Fang Chen calmly ordered.


    A cold glint shed across the room.


    The crowd only saw a shadow flying from Xia Yuns sleeves and back in, but the old man stiffened up on the spot. Secondster, his head slowly slid from his neck and plopped to the ground, rolling a few meters away.


    Lets continue our conversation, Fang Chen told the dumbfounded crowd.

 Chapter 187: Change the Crown Prince

    Chapter 187: Change the Crown Prince


    The room fell deathly silent.


    The emperor and the officials looked at the old mans decapitated head in horror.


    That old man was an extremely esteemed individual. He was the emperors great grandfather, and he had once served as Chillwaters emperor too. However, he chose to abdicate to focus on furthering his martial cultivation.


    There were less than ten Longevity Ki martial artists in Chillwater, but most were at early Longevity Ki. Only a small handful had reached mid Longevity Ki. Even Ji Congyun, as the Ji ns patriarch and a figure who stood on equal ground with Chillwaters imperial family, was merely atte Longevity Ki.


    However, this old ancestor had reached pinnacle Longevity Ki many years ago and had been pushing for a breakthrough to Heaven Profound realm. To think that an expert of that caliber was killed in a single move!


    <em>Is this the means of an immortal?</em>


    Ji Congyun was first taken aback, but delight soon flickered across his eyes. He couldnt believe that the person he feared the most had died in such a ludicrous manner.


    This was good news to him!


    The Ji n no longer had to fear the imperial family because of that old man anymore!


    The emperor couldnt believe what had just happened. It took a few moments before he snapped out of his daze and took a deep breath. Then, he looked at the crown prince.


    The crown prince hadpletely turned pale. With quivering lips, he said, That matter was a misunderstanding. Ill do whatever is required topensate for Great Xias loss


    Oh? How do you intend topensate for our 600,000 deceased soldiers? Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    I canpensate The crown prince squeezed out a smile.


    Fang Chen smiled back before he nodded at Zhao Yan. The next instant, Zhao Yan appeared beside the crown prince and plucked the crown princes head off his neck.


    Its time for you to select another crown prince, Fang Chen said before he turned around and walked out of the imperial court.


    Ji Congyun and the others were silent as they watched Fang Chen leave.


    Ten whole seconds passed before the emperors gaze finally fell on the crown princes headless corpse and trembled.


    Your Majesty, Great Xia has grown beyond our reach. At this rate, its only a matter of time before they advance to grade-7, let alone grade-8. I believe our imperial family should make a stand and offer them somepensation, Ji Congyun slowly spoke up.


    Quite a few officials snapped out of their daze and sided with Ji Congyun.


    The emperor and his aides looked awful, but they dared not refute those words. This incident had greatly weakened both the foundation and the standing of the imperial family.


    Perhaps, a day mighte when Chillwaters crown would be worn by a Ji nsman.


    Young master Fang, is it a good idea to leave those two in Chillwaters capital? Li Daoye asked out of curiosity while marching through the wilderness. You have already settled your affairs in Chillwater, right? Whats the point of leaving them there?


    Zhao Yan and Xu Ge are martial artists, and the ce were heading to is beyond what a martial artist can deal with, Fang Chen exined. Besides, its best to leave eyes there lest Chillwater attempt something out of desperation. Do you really think Great Xias vengeance is over just because Chillwater lost a crown prince?


    Xia Yun was taken aback. Daoist Fang, what do you mean?


    Chillwater has a vast territory with plenty of resources, and their martial heritage is superior to Great Xias. I intend to take Chillwater in as Great Xias fief, Fang Chen said.


    This has great implications. You should know that theres a grade-7 state above Chillwater. Those Heaven Profound realm martial artists wont be easy to deal with, Xia Yun replied with a frown.


    Liu Suifeng and Tantai Qingxuan nodded. Clearly, they had crossed blows with Heaven Profound realm martial artists before and knew what they were capable of.


    Young master Fang, Daoist Xia is right. Furthermore, there are grade-6 states above grade-7 states. Our Infernoze has several grade-7 vassal states that have to pay tribute to us each year, Li Daoye said. A grade-7 state could enlist the help of a grade-6 states cultivator. This couldplicate matters. Furthermore, if we catch the Blood Spirit Cults notice once more


    So what if a grade-6 state gets involved? Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    The others fell silent. Judging from how powerful Fang Chens background was, it was no surprise that grade-6 states didnt mean much to him. This made them even more curious about what sect Fang Chen had joined.


    Hourster, Xia Yun took out a map and studied it. He then looked at a nearby mountain range and said, Were reaching soon. Our destination is in that mountain range.


    Fang Chen looked at the mountain range. That was the ce that Enlightenment Heaven Supreme had pointed him to. Xia Yun and the others probably didnt know that the ce they were heading toward was really the abode left behind by a powerful cultivator.


    Enlightenment Heaven Supreme had not only pointed out a path to him but also taught him a method to open a certain spot there. He intended to give it a try.


    Time passed in a sh.


    Just as they were about to venture deeper into the mountain range, they suddenly heard somemotion. Shortly after, a huge group of Nightmare Knights encircled them.


    Who are you? This is the Ji ns private territory! Leave right now! The leader of the Nightmare Knights coldly eyed the group.


    Interesting. So, this is where the Ji ns cultivator found the Nightmare Steeds! Xia Yun burst intoughter.


    To avoid trouble, Li Daoye manifested a fireball and torched a few nearby trees into cinders. What were doing here has nothing to do with you. Scram!


    The Nightmare Knights were shocked. Having seen an immortals means before, they could easily figure their identities after witnessing Li Daoyes fireball. <em>These people are all immortals?</em>


    Are you an immortal? the leader of the Nightmare Knights carefully asked.


    What do you think? Li Daoye snorted. Do I not look like one?


    Upon receiving the affirmation, the leader of the Nightmare Knights quickly switched to a respectful tone and said, I sincerely apologize for my earlier offense, but this ce


    The immortal worshiped by your Ji n is dead, Li Daoye coldly said.


    The other party was shocked. Secondster, he nervously asked, Lord Immortal, are you heading to that ce?


    Oh? Why dont we get them to lead the way? Li Daoye asked the group.


    Sounds good. The others nodded in agreement, thinking that it would be more convenient.


    Senior, how many cultivators are there here?


    Lets ask them for directions.


    Two voices echoed from above.


    There was a blur, and a man and a woman appeared before the crowd. These two people had an extraordinary disposition, and there were hints of spirit ki on them. Their cultivation appeared to be higher than Xia Yuns.


    Their presence exerted faint pressure on everyone present, with the exception of Fang Chen.


    <em>Xia Yun is at eighth stage Ki Refinement. These two must be at least at ninth stage Ki Refinement,</em> Fang Chen thought.

 Chapter 188: Stone Fae

    Chapter 188: Stone Fae


    More immortals The Nightmare Knights had an ominous feeling.


    This was a barrennd, such that the only people here were the Ji ns Nightmare Knights who were assigned to guard this area. Even the Ji ns immortal rarely appeared here.


    Yet, so many immortals suddenly appeared here today. This made them wonder if something huge was going to happen.


    The two of you are Xia Yun sped his fist and asked with a grim face.


    Were disciples of Everchange Mountain. Im Li Xiuming, and this is my junior sister, Chaoxianggong Nisheng.


    Chaoxianggong Nisheng? What an interesting name, Li Daoye remarked with a frown. How are you rted to Vastsea Country?


    Vastsea Country? Chaoxianggong Nisheng was perplexed. I have never heard of that ce. My family name originates from my tribe, and my tribe is a far distance away from here.


    Li Daoye and Fang Chen exchanged looks. Fang Chen figured that Vastsea might have been founded by offshoots of major ns, though this was just a conjecture for now.


    They first exchanged names before Li Xiuming got to the point and said, My junior sister and I stumbled upon an old map, which indicates that the abode of a powerful cultivator is near here. Are you here for the same purpose too?


    Xia Yun and the others racked their brains to see if they had heard about a sect named Everchange Mountain, but it didnt ring a bell for them. Xia Yun spent seconds in thought before replying, We should be after the same thing.


    Thats great. Have you found the ce yet? Li Xiuming asked in delight.


    This Xia Yun and the others exchanged looks.


    Li Xiuming noticed their hesitation and chuckled. Since fate brought us together, we can split whatever we find in there equally. You dont have to worry about us monopolizing everything.


    Can I hold you to your word? Xia Yun asked.


    Disciples of Everchange Mountain hold their promises, Li Xiuming replied.


    Xia Yun and the others discussed this matter with Fang Chen, and they eventually decided to bring Li Xiuming and Chaoxianggong Nisheng with them.


    They figured that even if they didnt lead them, it was only a matter of them before the two of them found their way. Besides, Li Xiuming and Chaoxianggong Nisheng were stronger than Xia Yun, so it would be better to work together with them rather than to work against them.


    The Nightmare Knights led the way. Two hourster, they arrived before an unassuming cavern.


    Senior Brother, is this really the powerful cultivators abode? There arent any restriction arts imposed on the entrance at all. Chaoxianggong Nisheng narrowed her eyes in skepticism.


    Xia Yun looked at the leader of the Nightmare Knights and said, How does your Ji n manage this ce? How long does a to-and-fro trip into the cavern take? What have you found inside the cavern? Tell me everything you know.


    This


    The leader of the Nightmare Knights hesitated, knowing that this was no different from betraying the Ji n. He couldnt take responsibility for that. But at the same time, he was dealing with a bunch of immortals with powerful means. This put him in a spot.


    I advise you to speak honestly. The Ji n wont me you, Li Daoye advised with a sneer.


    Li Xiuming nced at Li Daoye with curious eyes. <em>Why would an eighth stage Ki Refinement cultivator bring a third stage Ki Refinement cultivator out to hunt for treasures?</em>


    Other than that, he was also concerned about Fang Chen. He couldnt help but think that there was something weird about Fang Chens aura, but he couldnt put his finger on what it was.


    Lord Immortals, beyond this cavern is another world. Youll find yourself in a mystical ce filled with all kinds of mysterious flora and fauna. Those are highly beneficial in raising a martial artists martial cultivation, the leader of the Nightmare Knights reluctantly exined.


    There are also many ferocious beasts inside, and the Nightmare Steed is one of them. However, those who enter the cavern must stay there for ten full days before they are allowed to leave the ce. That world is fraught with danger, such as gigantic stone monsters that breathe fire, but there are also ki stones that immortals are fond of.


    The Ji n organizes an expedition into the cavern once every three years, involving around 300 to 500 powerful martial artists, but there would only be around 40 survivors each time. Those beasts are impervious to swords and spears; our means as martial artists dont seem to work on them.


    Upon hearing those words, Li Xiuming nodded his head and said, Those beasts might have cultivated an immortal vein or two and are protected by spirit ki. Naturally, your inner ki will be useless against them.


    He turned to Xia Yun and said, Brother Xia, since mortals are able to survive in there, I doubt the cavern will pose much of a danger to us. Shall we enter now?


    What do you all think? Xia Yun looked at the crowd. His question was mostly directed toward Fang Chen.


    Lets head in and take a look, Fang Chen said with a smile.


    He took the lead into the cavern, and the others closely followed him.


    When all of them finally entered the cavern, the leader of the Nightmare Knights suddenly took out a dragon head seal and slowly ced it into an aperture beside the cavern.


    Now that the door is closed, it can only be opened a yearter, he murmured with a sneer. He then instructed his subordinates, Quick, inform the Ji n that several immortals have intruded on this ce and I have trapped them inside.


    Yes, sir!


    A few Nightmare Knights quickly left. The remaining ones revealed gleeful smiles.


    One of them turned to the leader of the Nightmare Knights and said, Chief, its lucky that you are sharp-witted. Those immortals might be strong, but their heads arent too good. How can they enter such a ce thinking it through? Hah, theres no way they can survive a year inside. Even the immortal worshiped by our Ji n dares not to carelessly enter the cavern!


    Shortly after Fang Chen and the others entered the cavern, they found themselves standing in the middle of a lush valley. Just then, a loud rumble echoed from the entrance behind them.


    A golden restriction art reminiscent of eight trigrams had sealed off the entrance!


    This is a formidable restriction art! Li Daoye used his art of omen reading to inspect the restriction art before remarking, This restriction art has a strong aura. Even a Foundation Establishment cultivator wont be able to easily breach it.


    Its fine. Itll dissipate within ten days. I doubt those mortals would dare deceive us, Xia Yun replied with a calm smile.


    Look! Are those Nightmare Steeds? Li Daoye suddenly pointed in the distance.


    A massive herdprising hundreds of steeds galloped past them. All of them were incredibly brawny. They were the Nightmare Knights mounts, the Nightmare Steeds.


    They have been nourished by spirit ki, but not so much that they turn into faes, Li Xiuming said with a smile. Those steeds are probably ordinary horses that the owner of this ce rears here, but they evolved over time till they areparable to some martial artists.


    Senior, does that mean that there are faes here? Chaoxianggong Nisheng asked.


    <em>Faes! </em>


    Xia Yun and the others turned grim. Faes had means that were not to be underestimated, though they did figure that a ce fraught with danger like this was likely to have a fae or two.


    You and your inauspicious mouth! Li Daoye screeched. See, a fae is heading here now!


    Around three hundred meters away from them, a pile of stones suddenly stood up and transformed into a huge creature that was over six meters tall. Dark-green mes ignited on its body, as it coldly eyed the crowd.

 Chapter 189: Abode

    Chapter 189: Abode


    This aura its at least at twelfth stage Ki Refinement! Li Xiuming eximed grimly.


    Senior, what do we do? Chaoxianggong Nisheng, who appeared to becking in worldly experience, anxiously turned to Li Xiuming and asked.


    Easy. Li Xiuming grabbed Chaoxianggong Nishengs arm. Run!


    The two of them immediately dashed off.


    Those disloyal things! Li Daoye retorted.


    Meanwhile, Xia Yun and his two juniors had fled as well.


    T-this The dumbfounded Li Daoye hurriedly looked around for Fang Chen, but thetters back was already more than three hundred meters away. Damn it! My father told me that the world of cultivation is a cold ce, and I should be selfish. I see now that his words are wise!


    He quickly ran in Fang Chens direction while shouting, Wait for me, young master Fang!


    Fifteen secondster, the two of them hid behind a lofty, old tree.


    Xia Yun and his two juniors werent that lucky. The stone fae had set its eyes on them and began charging in their direction. From time to time, it would spew pirs of green mes that reached over three hundred meters away that scorched everything within reach.


    Xia Yun and his two juniors quickly channeled their spirit ki to protect themselves from the devastating green mes.


    However, they soon realized that their spirit ki was swiftly depleted from fending against the green mesthey wouldntst long at this rate!


    Bloody hell! I would be well done if even a lick of that green me reaches me! Li Daoye spat.


    More like burnt to cinders. Fang Chen chuckled.


    Young master Fang, dont say such words! Argh, this ce is more dangerous than I thought. We actually encountered something like that as soon as we stepped in here. Do you think thats really a fae? Li Daoye murmured. Should we help them?


    How can we help them? Li Xiuming said that stone thing is at least at twelfth stage Ki Refinement. Well just be additional snacks for it if we head over, Fang Chen calmly analyzed the situation for Li Daoye.


    He wouldnt be a match for a twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator even if he used all of his trump cards. Unless the circumstances were all on his side, and he used the Moonsunk Dragon Truncheon and Purple Lightning Talismans aptly, he might stand a sliver of chance.


    Lets go. Fang Chen decisively turned around and left.


    Li Daoye quickly followed him. Are you really going to abandon them?


    You can go and help them. I wont stop you. I just wonder how long youllst running from that stone fae. Fang Chen harrumphed impatiently.


    Li Daoye sheepishlyughed. Haha, loyalty is for suckers. I bet an eighth stage Ki Refinement cultivator like Xia Yun can easily shake off that fae.


    He paused for a brief moment before adding, Treasures first. We shouldnt lose sight of why were here. Itd be great if we can find some artifacts, ki stones, pills, or spirit herbs here.


    Fang Chen eyed Li Daoye.


    Li Daoye and the others goal was to go treasure hunting, whereas his goal was to figure out the reason Enlightenment Heaven Supreme had pointed him here.


    In the days toe, Fang Chen and Li Daoye continued exploring this area. They bumped into a few ferocious beasts in the meantime, but none of them were as threatening as the stone fae. Some of the beasts they chose to subdue, whereas the stronger ones they avoided.


    The two of them had been dignified when they entered the cavern, but within a few short days, their clothes had be tattered and unseemly.


    Tsk! I should have bought a mystic robe, Li Daoye grumbled as he tore off his tattered clothes and wrapped it around his waist.


    He looked exhausted. Not only had he not found anything beneficial to cultivation over the past few days, but he had also suffered relentless attacks from ferocious beasts.


    Young master Fang, did those Nightmare Knights fool us? Even we are being cornered here. What good stuff could those martial artists find in here? Or could they have already taken all of the good stuff in there? Li Daoye pondered with a frown. Should we retreat first? Lets leave this ce as soon as ten days are up. It wont be worth it if we lose our lives here.


    Youre already thinking of retreating despite not having found the powerful cultivators abode yet? Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    I suspect this is a scam. I dont think theres any abode here at all. Otherwise, we should have already found it by now, Li Daoye said.


    Look at whats that. Fang Chen pointed not too far away with a smile.


    That Li Daoye rubbed his eyes and looked over.


    To his surprise, a few kilometers away from them, there was a hill with some buildings on it!


    Is that it?! Hahaha! This is fantastic! I bet Xia Yun and the others havent found this ce yet. Lets make haste and grab whatevers good first! The fatigued Li Daoye suddenly experienced a newfound surge of energy, and he quickly rushed toward the hill.


    Fang Chen leisurely followed him.


    Just then, a ck shadow suddenly descended from the sky and grabbed Li Daoye before attempting to rise back up into the sky.


    Without any hesitation, Fang Chen tossed two Purple Lightning Talismans on that ck shadow.


    Li Daoye plopped onto the floor with a miserable cry. His body was a little charred. Had it not been for him protecting himself with his spirit ki in time, the Purple Lightning Talisman could have electrocuted him to death.


    The Purple Lightning Talismans Fang Chen had tossed out were mid-grade; their destructive prowess were equivalent to an all-out attack from an eighth rank Ki Refinement cultivator. Yet, the ck shadow didnt incur any injuries from that attack.


    It began circling the sky while coldly eyeing Fang Chen.


    I nearly died to your Purple Lightning Talisman! Li Daoye hurriedly crawled over to Fang Chens side while retorting.


    You would have already been dead if not for my Purple Lightning Talismans, Fang Chen calmly replied.


    Li Daoye looked at the sky, and his face turned pale. Whats that thing? A bat fae?!


    The ck shadow circling the sky resembled a human, but its face was like a ferocious ck dog, its body was covered in short ck hair, and it had a pair of ck bat wings. However, it had long limbs like a human being.


    I dont know what that is, but it can fly, Fang Chen grimly replied.


    They had met their fair share of strong beasts over the past few days, but none of them was capable of flight. It was troublesome that this beast was both strong and able to fly.


    The ck shadow swooped down once more toward them at an incredible speed.


    Fang Chen and Li Daoye immediately tossed out a couple more Purple Lightning Talismans.


    Purple lightning furiously crackled, and the ck shadow quickly wrapped its wings around its body to shield itself. By the time the ck shadow unfurled its wings once more, it realized that Fang Chen and Li Daoye were already flitting toward the buildings sprawled on the hill.


    Grar! the ck shadow howled as it chased after them.


    Fang Chen and Li Daoye unhesitatingly tossed out a couple more Purple Lightning Talismans.


    This repeated a few more times till the two of them finally reached the hill. Surprisingly, the ck shadow stopped in mid-air, not daring to continue pursuing them.


    Young master Fang, I dont think it is able to get in here?! Li Daoye eximed in a furiously beating heart.


    Fang Chen thought about it and said, Its probably reared by the owner of this ce, so it dares not to step into its owners abode.


    That makes sense. Li Daoye heaved a sigh of relief. He turned to the ck shadow and taunted it, You useless bat. Why dont you continue chasing us, huh? You made me waste a couple of Purple Lightning Talismans. Do you know how much each of them is worth?!


    The ck shadow could only roar helplessly at them. It shot onest furious re at them before vanishing in the horizon.


    Lucky we have the Purple Lightning Talismans to chase it off, or else we would have died there. That beast looks to be at least at ninth stage Ki Refinement. Li Daoye patted his chest in relief.


    However, he felt regretful too.


    He had nned to sell the twenty Purple Lightning Talismans he had acquired from Fang Chen in Infernoze and make a killing. Yet, he had already used ten Purple Lightning Talismans in here. Unless he found a treasure that was worth 200 low-grade ki stones here, he would have made a huge loss.

 Chapter 190: Century Scarlet Fruit

    Chapter 190: Century Scarlet Fruit


    Just as the two of them were about to investigate the hill, Li Xiuming suddenly whizzed across the sky with Chaoxianggong Nisheng, with a ck shadow chasing after them. It was the same ck shadow who had pursued them earlier.


    Those two are capable of sword flight! Li Daoye was envious.


    Is sword flight difficult? Fang Chen casually asked.


    The Three Thousand Dao Gates initiate manual he received from Elder Cloudcrane only contained a cultivation method and the method to create Strength Talisman, Flitting Talisman, Protection Talisman, and Purple Lightning Talisman.


    Of course its difficult! You cant just fly on any random sword. You have to first nurture your own sword embryo, Li Daoye said. Nurturing a sword embryo is equivalent to forging a flying sword thats uniquely yours. Others will struggle to assimte the flying sword even if the owner dies. Thats why flying swords are also ssified as ego artifacts.


    Well, it doesnt necessarily have to be a sword though. There are cultivators who nurture all kinds of weirdly-shaped artifacts for that purpose too. It boils down to your own preference.


    Oh? Fang Chens interest was piqued. How are ego artifacts different from normal artifacts?


    Normal artifacts already have a fixed form, but ego artifacts are different. They are forged by nourishing artifacts that have daosoul imprints but havent taken a fixed form yet. Its a method known as ego nurturing. Such legacies cant be found in normal sects. Even in Infernoze, theres no more than a handful of sects that have such a legacy, Li Daoye said.


    Our Eight Trigrams Sect has disciples venturing out of the sect to explore the world each year, and one of the things we hope to find is an ego nurturing method. Its fine even if its an inferior ego nurturing methoditll still be stronger than ordinary artifacts, not to mention we can fly on it.


    Fang Chens interest deepened after hearing that. <em>I wonder if there are any ego nurturing methods here. Itd be convenient if I could fly on a sword. </em>


    Meanwhile, Li Xiuming and Chaoxianggong Nisheng spent a while fighting with the ck shadow in the sky. There was no victor, but the two of them looked to be in a disadvantageous position.


    In the end, the two of them found an opening to fly straight into the hill andnded not too far away from Fang Chen and Li Daoye. Even so, they continued to warily eye the ck shadow.


    It dares not to step into this hill! Li Xiuming breathed a sigh of relief when he saw the beast hesitating to advance into the hill.


    Have you seen Xia Yun and the other two? Fang Chen asked them.


    Ist saw them getting chased by the stone fae. Li Xiuming shook his head.


    Such is life. Li Daoye sighed. Lets not bother about them for now. This must be the powerful cultivators abode. Lets see if he left anything good here! I dont think the Ji ns martial artists are able to get this far; they probably just collected a bunch of chump change around.


    Fang Chen nodded. Thats possible.


    The cultivator worshiped by the Ji n wasnt strong, so it would have been hard for him to reach this ce, not to mention that Ji Lengyue and the others had implied that the cultivator had been reluctant to step in here out of fear for his life.


    The four of them climbed the hill and soon saw a door with a que writing: Pilgrimage Gate.


    Pilgrimage Gate? What big words. Li Xiumingughed. Is this a Golden Core cultivators abode?


    Chaoxianggong Nisheng and Li Daoyes eyes lit up upon hearing those words.


    Passing through the Pilgrimage Gate, the four of them soon arrived before a tattered pce, which looked to have been wrecked by someone before.


    A cultivator has been here. Li Xiumings face darkened.


    Damn it! Is this a wasted trip? I wasted so many ki stones here! Li Daoye cried tearfully.


    They might not have taken away everything. Lets look around, Li Xiuming said.


    Its a big ce. Lets spread out, Fang Chen said.


    Li Xiuming nced at Fang Chen with enigmatic eyes and remarked, There might be restriction art traps here. Itll be best for us to travel together, especially since your cultivation isnt too high. That way, my junior and I can at least look out for you.


    Young master Fang, Brother Li is right. Li Daoye nodded. His voice then secretly echoed in Fang Chens ears, Hes afraid that well find something good and hide it, but their cultivation is higher than ours. They might kill us if we refuse to travel with them.


    Li Daoye had never trusted Li Xiuming and Chaoxianggong Nisheng. He knew the world of cultivation was a cruel and selfish ce; he wouldnt trust someone whose sect he didnt even know about.


    Fang Chen nodded with a smile. That sounds good. Well be troubling the two of you.


    No worries. Li Xiuming waved his hand.


    The four of them ventured into the pce and saw a divine statueit was none other than the Enlightenment Heaven Supreme. However, half its body was destroyed. It was likely the doing of the person who wrecked this pce.


    I get it now. The cultivator who was cultivating here might have fled in a fluster when an enemy came knocking, Li Xiuming proposed a theory.


    Wouldnt his enemy have already taken everything valuable then? Li Daoye frowned.


    Fang Chen stared intently at the divine statue. <em>Is this the point that the Enlightenment Heaven Supreme started gathering faith for his cultivation? Given how huge this ce is, its possible the Enlightenment Heaven Supreme might have reared mortals here before. </em>


    Young master Fang, why do you keep staring at the divine statue? Li Daoye asked. If Im not mistaken, this divine statue is called Enlightenment something


    Enlightenment Heaven Supreme. Fang Chen corrected. Quite a few ces worship him.


    Right, right! Li Daoye nodded. Even the cultivator here worships him. Hes probably a true immortal.


    He must be a powerhouse in the immortal realm, Li Xiuming added with a smile. Our Everchange Mountain also worships a powerful figure. Our sect elders say that hes one of the outstanding ones in the immortal realm. If we ever ascend to the immortal realm, we should be able to see these powerhouses.


    Fang Chen was perplexed. <em>Could the Enlightenment Heaven Supreme already ascended to the immortal realm, but he continued maintaining his presence in this realm? That suggests that he is terrifyingly powerful. </em>


    Theres nothing here. Lets look elsewhere. Li Xiuming brought the group deeper into the hill.


    They passed by a weed-covered herb field, but a scarlet fruit swiftly caught their attention.


    Its a Scarlet Fruit, and its at least a century old! Li Xiumings eyes lit up. A century old Scarlet Fruit is highly beneficial to cultivators; itd at least be worth 200 low-grade ki stones!


    Li Daoyes heart pounded furiously. He could make up for his loss thus far if he could obtain one of those fruits, but he noticed that there were only three Scarlet Fruits on the tree. There was no way to equally split it among themselves


    Im at tenth stage Ki Refinement, and my junior sister is at ninth stage. It has been getting harder for us to advance our cultivation, so this fruit is of great importance to us. Li Xiuming looked at Fang Chen and Li Daoye and smiled. Well hold these three fruits for now. If we stumble upon any other treasurester on, we can split the items equally.

 Chapter 191: Returning

    Chapter 191: Returning


    Li Daoyes face was livid, but he suppressed his anger and squeezed out a smile. It might be hard to split it equally since there are only three fruits, so why dont you take two while we take one?


    Li Xiumingughed. Under normal circumstances, a third stage Ki Refinement cultivator like you has no right to be traveling with us. You should be d that my junior and I are bringing you around. How can you be so greedy on top of that?


    Shameless! Li Daoye spat.


    Li Xiumings face darkened. Terrifying spirit ki surged from his body, and with a light palm thrust, he sent Li Daoye flying over thirty meters away.


    Pu!


    Li Daoye spat a mouthful of blood.


    What about you? Li Xiuming looked at Fang Chen.


    You can decide between the two of you, Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    Good. At least you know when to back down. Li Xiuming nodded his head in approval.


    He plucked the three Scarlet Fruits with his spirit ki before leaving with Chaoxianggong Nisheng.


    Fang Chen walked over to Li Daoyes side and supported him to his feet. You should learn to bow your head when youre in a weaker position. He spared you this time, but he might just take your life the next time.


    Young master Fang, how can you tolerate that?! Li Daoye eximed in anger.


    You have to hold it in whether you want it or not. Fang Chen chuckled. Lets go. We need to catch up with them. Hes been keeping an eye on us. Hell probably kill us right away if we try to escape.


    Those wretches! Ill get back at them one day! Li Daoye spat under his breath.


    The four of them ventured deeper into the hill and explored the area, but they found nothing else other than the three earlier Scarlet Fruits. There was not even a single ki stone to be found.


    Meanwhile, Fang Chen took a few looks at a stone hut. That was the ce the Enlightenment Heaven Supreme had told him to acquire the items from. A specific method was needed to open the hidden door.


    Theres nothing valuable here other than the three Scarlet Fruits. Li Xiuming stood in front of the stone door as he shook his head. We traveled all the way here only for three Scarlet Fruits. What a waste.


    Li Daoye clenched his teeth.


    Senior, we only spent 5 low-grade ki stones for that map. Its not a waste, Chaoxianggong Nisheng replied with a smile.


    Thats true. Li Xiuming nodded. He turned to Fang Chen and Li Daoye and said, My junior and I will be leaving this ce. You cant fly on a sword, and we shant travel together anymore. Take care of yourselves.


    With that, the two of them got onto their swords and left the hill.


    Seeing that, Li Daoye finally cursed out loud, Those shameless knaves! They took everything good before leaving us here! I bet that flying beast is still nearby. They are trying to escape by themselves while leaving us here to rot and die!


    He then turned to Fang Chen and asked, Young master Fang, what should we do next? Do we wait here or That gate only opens once every ten days. Well have to wait another ten days if we miss the timing.


    If the flying beast is camping for us, I dont think well be able to make it to the entrance, Fang Chen replied.


    I shouldnt have entered this ce, Li Daoye grumbled. <em>I made such a huge loss. I wasted my Purple Lightning Talismans. I was beaten up. And now, I might be unable to leave this ce too. Damn it! </em>


    However, I think that theres more to this ce, Fang Chen said. He looked at the stone hut with a faint smile.


    Oh? Li Daoyes eyebrows shot up. He looked at the stone hut, then back at Fang Chen, and doubt seeped into his eyes. Young master Fang, did you notice something?


    Ill have to try it out to know for sure.


    Fang Chen formed a hand seal. His spirit ki slowly flowed and manifested into a peculiar restriction art before him. Under Li Daoyes watch, the restriction art fell on the stone hut.


    Boom!


    A golden light burst from the stone hut. Its walls tore off as it transformed into a majestic pce.


    Li Daoye was stunned. He would have never expected there was such a secret to the stone hut. Who could have thought its previous appearance was just a disguise?


    Secondster, the golden light dispersed.


    Li Daoye felt his lips turning dry. He stared at the pce before him as he asked, Young master Fang, there has to be valuable treasures inside, right?


    Well know once we take a look, Fang Chen replied with a chuckle.


    Thats right. Well know once we take a look.


    Another voice echoed behind Fang Chen and Li Daoye.


    Goosebumps rose all over Li Daoyes body as he anxiously turned around to take a look. It was Li Xiuming, who should have already left by now!


    Senior, youre right. There really is something weird about him. Chaoxianggong Nisheng looked at Li Xiuming with eyes of admiration.


    Li Xiuming chuckled. Its not that difficult to figure out. We have been flying on our swords all this while, yet we arrived here a stepter than them. The chances are that hes familiar with this ce or at least knows his way around.


    He then looked at Fang Chen and asked, Am I right?


    Cant it be that were just lucky? Fang Chen asked.


    Li Daoye frowned. Now that he thought about it, it did seem like Fang Chen knew his way around. They had narrowly avoided many dangers along the way due to Fang Chen noticing them in advance.


    Luck? Everything in the world of cultivation happens for a reason, Li Xiuming coldly replied. This pce was covered by a hidden restriction art. Even I couldnt see through its disguise. Yet, you knew about the restriction art and were even able to lift it. That proves my deduction. Its about time for you to tell me whats your rtionship with the owner of this ce.


    Ha Fang Chen sighed. I shant hide it anymore since you have already guessed as much. The owner of this ce is my sect elder. He died a while ago, and he left some stuff for me.


    Fear flickered across Li Xiumings eyes, but he quickly concealed it and said, Your sect elder? The cultivator who resided here should be at Foundation Establishment at the very least Youll enter the pce with him first. My junior and I will follow you. If you encounter any danger, well step forward and protect you.


    Li Daoye cursed Li Xiumings entire n in his mind. <em>That son of a bitch is obviously using us to scout out traps in there!</em>


    My friend is injured; he wont be able to react if any dangeres our way. Why dont we have him stand on guard outside while I scout the way ahead? Fang Chen said.


    Young master Fang Li Daoye was taken aback, and his eyes swiftly turned red. <em>My father said that cultivators are all selfish Bullshit! Young master Fang is clearly a selfless person!</em>


    Li Xiuming thought about it before nodding. All right.


    Guard the outside. Just flee if you sense danger. Your cultivation is too low. You wont be of any help even if you linger, Fang Chen said out loud despite Li Xiumings presence.


    Then, he made his way toward the pce. Li Xiuming and Chaoxianggong Nisheng exchanged looks before following him.

 Chapter 192: Black-cloaked Man

    Chapter 192: ck-cloaked Man


    Shortly after Fang Chen entered the pce, his attention was drawn to a nearby jade pedestal. ced neatly on the pedestal was a huge stack of low-grade ki stones.


    <em>25 rows of 8; one stack already contains 200 low-grade ki stones, and there are five stacks here Enlightenment Heaven Supreme must have been quite wealthy. Hes no longer here, but he left so many ki stones behind </em>Fang Chen quickly did some mental math.


    There was also a jade container and a bundle of silvery things ced on the jade pedestal. Those two items were lifted up by some mysterious force and were slowly revolving in mid-air.


    Senior, theres a thousand low-grade ki stones here and a sword embryo! I reckon theres a treasure inside that jade container too! Chaoxianggong Nisheng eximed in delight.


    In contrast, Li Xiuming was much calmer. He first scanned his surroundings before closing his eyes to sense the vicinity. Only after confirming there was no danger did he take a step toward the jade pedestal.


    With a simple swipe of his hand, the thousand low-grade ki stones vanished.


    He was wearing a storage ring on his fourth finger.


    Following that, Li Xiuming opened the jade container. ced within was a blood-red ginseng.


    Junior, this is a 100-year-old Blood Ginseng. Its potency is at least two times that of a 100-year-old Scarlet Fruit, Li Xiuming said merrily.


    We didnte in vain. With these, we should be able to quickly advance our cultivation to twelfth stage Ki Refinement! Chaoxianggong Nisheng was overjoyed.


    <em>Did Enlightenment Heaven Supreme really not leave any means here?</em> Fang Chen wondered. <em>Did I judge him wrongly?</em>


    Pu!


    Chaoxianggong Nisheng suddenly staggered toward Fang Chen. She grabbed Fang Chens shoulder while ring at Li Xiuming with disbelief in her eyes.


    This sudden twist in the situation shook Fang Chen out of his thoughts. He saw a puncture in Chaoxianggong Nishengs chest, and fresh blood was oozing out from the front and the back. Something had pierced through her.


    Cultivators were indeed resilient, but that was only rtive to mortals. It was a different story if the aggressor was another cultivator.


    Chaoxianggong Nishengs life force quickly seeped away after receiving such a severe injury. If she was not swiftly treated with a spirit medicine, she would soon die with regrets.


    Why? Chaoxianggong Nisheng asked with great difficulty.


    Li Xiuming stowed away the Blood Ginseng and tidied his robe. Senior Sister Chen has agreed to be my cultivationpanion. Your existence hinders me.


    S-Senior Sister Chen?! Was she the one who ordered you to kill me? Chaoxianggong Nisheng red at Li Xiuming with vicious eyes.


    She only told me to part ways with you. Its just that everyone in Everchange Mountain knows that were a loving couple, so how will others view me if they know that I dumped you?


    I will need a Foundation Establishment Pill to advance to Foundation Establishment, and you know how rare Foundation Establishment Pills are. Ill never be able to obtain one unless I get together with Senior Sister Chen, who has the backing of a Golden Core cultivator.


    Li Xiuming chuckled softly. I was thinking of finding a good ce to end you. This works too. Three 100-year-old Scarlet Fruits, a 100-year-old Blood Ginseng, 1000 low-grade ki stones, and a sword embryo. With these, I can easily reach twelfth stage Ki Refinement without relying on Senior Sister Chen.


    Why do you still want to kill me then?! You can just tell me, and I can give all of them to you! Chaoxianggong Nisheng screamed in destion.


    I am telling you now, arent I? Besides, these items are nothingpared to a Foundation Establishment Pill.


    Our Everchange Mountain only produces five Foundation Establishment cultivators every hundred years. Do you think its because the others are untalented? Not at all. Its because of how difficult it is to obtain a Foundation Establishment Pill. There are at least dozens whose means are superior to mine. If I dont resort to this, I doubt that Ill ever advance to Foundation Establishment in my lifetime, Li Xiuming calmly replied.


    <em>Are Foundation Establishment Pills that valuable? Elder Cloudcrane told me to advance to Foundation Establishment first before reporting to the Three Thousand Dao Gates. I guess this is one of his trials too, </em>Fang Chen thought.


    Sorry to interrupt. You have already taken all of the treasures, and Ill treat it as if I didnt see anything here. Can I leave now? Fang Chen asked,


    Li Xiumings eyes fell on Fang Chen. The edges of his lips curled into a sinister smile as he said, Why should I let you leave this ce alive?


    A flying sword whizzed forth from Li Xiumings sleeves. Its target? Fang Chen!


    At this critical moment, a hand suddenly appeared out of nowhere and grabbed the flying sword. The flying sword furiously whirred in ce for a few seconds before slowly calming down.


    Li Xiumings eyes widened in shock.


    A ck-cloaked figure had appeared in the pce. It was as if his wrinkly hand was made out of some unbreakable metal, as it held onto the flying sword without sustaining any injury.


    Li Xiuming was a tenth stage Ki Refinement cultivator. It would take a Foundation Establishment cultivator to stop his flying sword in such a manner!


    Elder, who are you? Li Xiuming sped his fist and asked politely.


    Hehe The ck-cloaked manughed. You entered my abode, yet you ask who I am?


    The other three people in the pce widened their eyes in shock.


    <em>Hes Enlightenment Heaven Supreme?</em> Fang Chen suppressed his shock as he quietly assessed the ck-cloaked man. Unfortunately, thetter was so thoroughly concealed that it was hard to even make out his silhouette.


    Ah, I didnt know you were the owner of this ce. Please pardon my disrespect, Li Xiuming quickly said.


    Since you know its disrespectful, shouldnt you put my items back in ce? the ck-cloaked man asked with a smile.


    Li Xiuming was startled. No matter how reluctant he was, he had no choice but to return everything he had taken, be it the ki stone, the Blood Ginseng, or the sword embryo.


    The three Scarlet Fruits too, the ck-cloaked man said.


    <em>He has been keeping an eye on us! </em>Li Xiuming was horrified. He revealed an awkward smile as he took out the three Scarlet Fruits and carefully ced them on the jade pedestal too.


    Only then did the ck-cloaked man nod.


    Elder, may I take my leave now? Li Xiuming asked.


    Its been a while since this body of mine replenished its essence. At this rate, Ill onlyst for around two to three years more before drying out. Since youre already here, why dont you be a kind soul and lend me a helping hand? The ck-cloaked manughed eerily.


    The ck-cloaked man raised his hand, and Li Xiuming found himself flying helplessly straight into his clutches. The ck-cloaked man then began absorbing his blood essence.


    Elder, you! Li Xiuming panicked. He would have never thought that the person before him was a malevolent cultivator who thrived off siphoning others blood essence!


    Hehehe Chaoxianggong Nisheng sneered in derision. Senior, I thought that you had it all calcted out. Did you foresee such an ending too? I fear Senior Sister Chen will have to look for another cultivationpanion at this rate.


    Li Xiuming was infuriated and frightened to hear those words. All kinds of emotions welled in his heart. With a furious roar, he frenziedly channeled all of his spirit ki in hopes of struggling free of the ck-cloaked mans grasp.


    I cant die here! I will advance to Foundation Establishment and even Golden Core in the near future! How can I possibly die at a ce like this?! he roared gutturally.


    Secondster, his body fell limp. He was unable to break free of the ck-cloaked mans grasp no matter what he did.

 Chapter 193: A Trade

    Chapter 193: A Trade


    Young master Fang, whats going on?! Li Daoyes head popped in from the entrance, only to be shocked by what he saw. <em>Who in the world is that ck-cloaked man?</em>


    Attack, Fang Chen suddenly ordered.


    He pushed Chaoxianggong Nisheng aside and tossed ten Purple Lightning Talismans at the ck-cloaked man. Li Daoye also didnt slip up at this critical moment and unhesitatingly threw all of his remaining Purple Lightning Talismans over.


    Then, the two of them fled without bothering to see the oue of their attack.


    Explosions ensued. Blinding light suffused the pce as the ck-cloaked man was bombarded by frightening purple lightning bolts.


    By the time the lightning dissipated, Fang Chen, Li Daoye, and Chaoxianggong Nisheng were nowhere to be seen. The ki stones, Blood Ginseng, Scarlet Fruits, and sword embryo that were on the jade pedestal had also disappeared.


    The ck-cloaked man fell silent. A cold glint shed across his eyes as he tossed Li Xiuming aside as if he was trash and walked out of the pce.


    Then, he morphed into a surge of dim light as he rushed down the hill.


    Cough cough cough! Li Xiuming coughed violently as he struggled to his feet.


    He had lost 90% of his blood essence, such that he looked more like a skeleton covered in skin. It would take years for him to recover from such depletion.


    Ha, ha


    Li Xiuming revealed a savage smile as he felt an adrenaline rush from surviving the ordeal. He might have lost the items on the jade pedestal, but at least he survived. As long as there was a breath left in him, he could get back everything that he had lost!


    Thatd took Nisheng with him? It matters not. She wont live long given the severity of her injuries. As for that ck-cloaked man, his target seems to be thatd Li Xiuming narrowed his eyes in viciousness as he realized that Fang Chen might have used him. <em>That bastard might have known that it was dangerous here.</em>


    What a close shave. We could have sustained severe injuries if that ferocious beast didnt suddenly back off, Xia Yuns voice suddenly echoed from the entrance.


    Li Xiuming quickly walked out of the pce and feebly stretched his hand toward the trio, asking, Do you have any blood replenishment pills?


    You are?!


    Xia Yun and his two juniors were taken aback, as they stared at Li Xiuming in uncertainty.


    I am Li Xiuming, Li Xiuming said.


    You What happened to you? Wheres your junior sister? Also, have you seen our other twopanions? Liu Suifeng asked with a frown.


    Li Xiuming bitterly replied, We found quite a few ki stones, a sword embryo, and a Blood Ginseng in here, but my junior sister colluded with your twopanions to deplete my blood essence so that they can monopolize the treasures.


    Xia Yun and his two juniors frowned.


    It didnt look like Li Xiuming was lying about that, so Liu Suifeng asked, Did they really take the treasures away? We agreed to split it among ourselves.


    Theres no reason for me to lie, Li Xiuming replied righteously.


    Regardless of the situation, we can talk about it once we find them. Xia Yun thought about it before handing Li Xiuming a pill. I dont have any blood replenishment pills with me, but here is a recovery pill. It should make you feel better.


    Thanks. Li Xiuming quickly took the pill and swallowed it.


    Meanwhile, Liu Suifeng and Tantai Qingxuan took a look around the pce. The sight of the empty jade pedestal added credence to Li Xiumings story. They could sense rich spirit ki from the jade pedestal, a hint that there used to be ki stones on it.


    Young master Fang, were running for our lives, right? Why are we bringing this woman along? Li Daoye didnt forget to re at Chaoxianggong Nisheng while sprinting with all his might.


    Chaoxianggong Nisheng was in a feeble state. She was moved to see Fang Chen taking her with him, but she said, Let me down. Im doomed to die. The injury has wounded my heart meridian. Ill only be a burden. If you survive this ordeal, please visit our Everchange Mountain one day to expose Li Xiumings shameless face to my fellow brethren.


    Li Daoye was intrigued. What happened in the pce? Did Li Xiuming stab you?


    Is a 100-year-old Scarlet Fruit enough for you to survive? Fang Chen asked.


    100-year-old Scarlet Fruit? Isnt it on the jade pedestal? Wait a moment Chaoxing Gongnisheng stared at Fang Chen in disbelief. <em>Aside from taking me, did he swipe everything on the jade pedestal too?</em>


    Answer my question, Fang Chen said impatiently.


    Yes, it can! Chaoxianggong Nisheng eximed.


    Lets make a deal. Impart to us the method to nurture an ego artifact, and in exchange, Ill give you a Scarlet Fruit and bring you out of this ce alive, Fang Chen said.


    Li Daoye gasped in disbelief. <em>He was able to make such calctions even in that precarious situation? </em>He finally understood why Fang Chen took Chaoxianggong Nisheng with him. It was not out of lust but greed!


    So thats your goal Chaoxianggong Nisheng was taken aback. She feebly replied, I cant impart our Everchange Mountains ego nurturing method to you. We made a vow when joining the sect to never impart Everchange Mountains cultivation arts to outsiders, or else well die to Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions.


    Bam!


    Fang Chen dropped his arms. Chaoxianggong Nisheng fell heavily on the ground and rolled off. This impact tugged on her chest wound, and the sheer pain caused her to gasp for air.


    Since its a no deal, theres no reason for us to continue traveling together, Fang Chen said before taking his leave.


    W-wait Chaoxianggong Nisheng panicked. She couldnt believe how fast Fang Chen had changed his attitude. I only said that I cant impart our Everchange Mountains cultivation art to you, but our Chaoxianggong n has its own ego nurturing method too. I can use that to strike a deal with you.


    You should have said so earlier.


    Fang Chen turned around, picked up Chaoxianggong Nisheng, and continued fleeing.


    A minuteter, Li Daoye and Fang Chen widened their eyes in realization. I didnt expect it to be so easy.


    Fang Chen fulfilled his promise and fed Chaoxianggong Nisheng a 100-year-old Scarlet Fruit. Herplexion swiftly improved.


    Our ns ego nurturing method is much simpler, so it only works on mid Yellow-tier artifacts and below, Chaoxianggong Nisheng said.


    Young master Fang, that ck-cloaked man clearly possesses exceptional means. I dont think well be able to escape from him just like that, right? Li Daoye asked.


    Take these ki stones, Blood Ginseng, Scarlet Fruits, and sword embryo. Ill lure him away, Fang Chen passed the items to Li Daoye as he said.


    Li Daoye was stunned. What are you saying?! Youll lure him away?


    Who else is going to do that? You? Fang Chens eyebrows shot up.


    Haha, you can do it. Youre the stronger one, Li Daoye sheepishly replied.


    Fang Chen nodded. They quickly split ways.


    Hes a true gentleman its really rare to see people like him nowadays, Chaoxianggong Nisheng said feebly.


    Am I not one? Dont forget that Im the one carrying you now. Li Daoye harrumphed in displeasure as he continued sprinting toward the entrance.


    Secondster, he asked, Miss, are you engaged?


    Let me down. I have mostly recovered, Chaoxianggong Nisheng coldly replied.


    Meanwhile, Fang Chen had fled for at least thirty kilometers. He had avoided some dangers along the way as if he could predict the future, but the ck-cloaked man still managed to catch up with him and block his way.


    The stone fae and the bat fae were here too. The three of them sealed off his path of retreat.


    You sure are good at running, the ck-cloaked man sneered.

 Chapter 194: Soul Searching

    Chapter 194: Soul Searching


    Fang Chen looked at the stone fae, followed by the bat fae, and finally the ck-cloaked man before sighing. Why are you pursuing me alone?


    You have an exceptionally rich soul. You must have consumed some spirit medicine. Tell me where you obtained your spirit medicine, and you wont have to return any of my treasures, the ck-cloaked man said.


    Enlightenment Heaven Supreme, lets not beat around the bush. You lured me for this, right? Fang Chen asked with a faint sneer lingering on his lips. I thought that you are a powerhouse, but it looks like I overestimated you.


    Elder Cloudcrane knew about his rich soul too, but he didnt ask about the reason and instead bestowed him with the Three Thousand Dao Gates initiate manual.


    In contrast, Enlightenment Heaven Supreme schemed to capture and coerce him to reveal how his soul had be so strong.


    Fang Chen was already certain about the ck-cloaked mans identity, but he was baffled by the other partys means. The person before him was definitely not at Foundation Establishment; he was at most at twelfth stage Ki Refinement.


    It didnt make sense to him that the real Enlightenment Heaven Supreme was this weak, considering that he was worshiped by several states for so many years. The chances were that the ck-cloaked man before him was a shell, one of Enlightenment Heaven Supremes clones.


    The ck-cloaked man was stunned, only to chuckle softly a momentter. He took off his veil and revealed a face identical to that of Enlightenment Heaven Supreme.


    He looked at Fang Chen and asked, When did you find out?


    I found out a long time ago, Fang Chen replied.


    Why did you enter this cavern then? Heh, were you tempted by the benefits I offered, the ck-cloaked man asked.


    You previously told me Id find 100 low-grade ki stones here, but why were there 1000 low-grade ki stones, a Blood Ginseng, and a sword embryo? Fang Chen asked.


    This is my backup n, so I ought to be generous to myself. Its easy for me to obtain ki stones, though the sword embryo has quite the background. My real body went through a lot to sneak it out of the Empyrean Immortal Sword Sect, the ck-cloaked man said with augh.


    That being said, if you tell me where you ate that spirit medicine and what fortuitous encounter you stumbled upon there, I can consider bestowing it to you.


    He paused for a second before adding, I only told you there were 100 low-grade ki stones because you are too weak. I was worried I might pique your suspicion if I stated too high a number.


    Fang Chens mind whirred into action.


    <em>First and foremost, the person before me is indeed one of the Enlightenment Heaven Supremes clones. This cavern is a backup n in case his real body dies, so he made sure to leave a mini fortune here so that he can make aeback. </em>


    <em>That also meant there was a high chance that the sword embryo is really something formidable. </em>


    Will you really let me go if I tell you where I consumed the spirit medicine? Fang Chen asked.


    Of course. Im a man of my word, Enlightenment Heaven Supreme replied with a smile.


    I dont trust you. If you are that honest, you would have asked me straight away instead of luring me here. I want to know why this body of yours is only at twelfth stage Ki Refinement even though your main body is likely to be much stronger, Fang Chen replied.


    Enlightenment Heaven Supreme was startled. You can see through my cultivation? Even that brat from before thought I was at Foundation Establishment Ah, I forgot your soul is stronger than the one I have in this body, so its only normal for you to see through my cultivation.


    He let out a chuckle before replying, I told you this is my backup n. This body consumes energy each time I move it. The higher the cultivation, the greater the depletion. If you dont want to die, dont waste my time and tell me everything you know. In exchange, Ill bestow you with a fortuitous encounter.


    I dont believe you, Fang Chen replied. Escort me out. Once Im safe, Ill tell you everything you wish to know.


    Brat, do you take me for a fool? I have cultivated for more than a thousand years and dominated a region. You should be thanking your ancestors that you are talking with me at all! Enlightenment Heaven Supremes voice slowly turned cold.


    And someone as strong as you covets an ants fortuitous encounter? You might be strong, but are you stronger than a grade-1 states cultivator? Fang Chen mocked.


    Enlightenment Heaven Supremes face darkened. There are many cultivators beneath me even in a grade-1 state. Youre wasting my time with meaningless rambles. Do you want to live or die in my hands?


    You dont dare to kill me. Youll lose your lead to that spirit medicine if you kill me. I can frankly tell you there are many of such spirit medicine in that ce. I was only able to consume one due to my low cultivation, Fang Chen replied.


    Enlightenment Heaven Supreme was shaken up to hear that. Greed seeped into his eyes as he said, I have my way of getting that information out of you even if you refuse to speak. ckbat, take him to the Coldreturn Hill.


    The bat fae grabbed Fang Chen and soared into the sky, leaving together with Enlightenment Heaven Supreme.


    The stone fae stood on the spot for a long time before reverting into a giant boulder.


    Its that fae!


    Hide!


    Xia Yun and the others quickly hid in the bushes. They nervously watched as the bat fae flew over them.


    Only when it disappeared did Tantai Qingxuan asked in bewilderment, Thats Daoist Fang, right? Whos that other person?


    I dont know. Xia Yun and Liu Suifeng shook their heads.


    They were shocked to learn that Fang Chen had been captured by that bat fae. It was unlikely that he would survive that encounter.


    Li Xiuming was overjoyed. <em>If Fang Chen has been captured, Li Daoye and Chaoxianggong Nisheng are likely dead too. </em>


    I suggest for us not to get nosey and leave this ce first, Li Xiuming proposed.


    The other three nodded.


    Daoist Fang has a formidable heritage. He would have had a bright future ahead of him if he hadnte here. What a pity! But thats the life of a cultivator. No cultivators are spared from disasters and tribtions, Liu Suifeng remarked.


    Daoist Fang chose this on his own. It has nothing to do with us, Xia Yun added.


    Indeed, it has nothing to do with us, Liu Suifeng agreed.


    Just like that, they shook off their responsibility concerning this matter.


    Fang Chen returned to the same pce where he escaped from.


    The bat fae dared not to enter the hill. It watched from the sky as Enlightenment Heaven Supreme and Fang Chen entered the pce before taking its leave.


    Enlightenment Heaven Supreme chuckled gleefully. He took off Fang Chens storage ring, but secondster, his face suddenly warped in anger. Isnt this a storage ring?


    Why would someone of my cultivation have a storage ring? Fang Chen retorted.


    Youre saying that you passed the ki stones, Blood Ginseng, Scarlet Fruits, and sword embryo to the other two? Do you trust them that much?! Enlightenment Heaven Supreme narrowed his eyes in disbelief. You would rather sacrifice yourself to fulfill them. You are a noble and generous one. What a pity they wont be able to leave this ce any time soon. There are a few days more to go before ten days are up.


    Fang Chen chuckled. You wont be able to get your things back if you dont chase them now.


    A few days is enough time for me to search your soul. Its just that this body has a low cultivation, so Ill need two days just for that, Enlightenment Heaven Supreme said. Its not toote for me to chase them after I get to the bottom of your fortuitous encounter.


    He ced his palm on Fang Chens head and furiously pumped his spirit ki in.


    Bam!


    Fang Chens head suddenly exploded, followed by his body and limbs.


    Hes dead? Enlightenment Heaven Supreme was first stupefied, but soon, rage flickered in his eyes.

 Chapter 195: Shamelessness

    Chapter 195: Shamelessness


    In an ordinary residence in Chillwaters capital, Xu Ge was squatting on the ground, toying with the ants on the ground with a tree branch. Zhao Yan was staring nkly at the sky above. There were no words exchanged between the two of them.


    But as soon as the door opened, the two of them turned their attention over.


    Young master. The two of them bowed.


    Fang Chen nodded with a fatigued smile.


    He had the Greenwood Puppet disguise itself as him and enter the cavern, but his soul had to tag along as well. He was worried that his soul wouldnt make it to Enlightenment Heaven Supremes abode, but to his surprise, not even the restriction art was able to block his path.


    That being said, it was exhausting for him to astral project for such a long time. Furthermore, he had to control the Greenwood Puppets every move without the slightest dy, or else he would risk giving himself away.


    Have you been to temples here in recent days? Fang Chen asked.


    Zhao Yan and Xu Ge nodded. Chillwater worships a number of deities, but Enlightenment Heaven Supreme isnt one of them.


    Fang Chen nodded. <em>It could be that Chillwater didnt exist back when Enlightenment Heaven Supreme was still wandering the world, so he has no worshipers here. </em>


    Has the Ji n made any move? Fang Chen looked at Zhao Yan.


    Nothing particr of note. They know that Xu Ge and I are residing here, but they didnt put any eyes on us, Zhao Yan replied.


    Fang Chen nodded. Did you prepare the carriage I requested?


    Its all prepared, Zhao Yan replied.


    Lets set off. Fang Chen smiled.


    Damn it! Its actually a puppet?! Enlightenment Heaven Supreme inspected the lifeless body on the ground, and his face slowly turned livid.


    It had been many years since he wasst taken for a ride, but to think that he would be fooled by a mere Ki Refinement cultivator?


    That fellow is a sly one. He must have received quite the fortuitous encounter, or else he wouldnt have been so vignt. There might be some truth in his words. There might be more Saint-tier spirit medicine there, Enlightenment Heaven Supreme murmured under his breath.


    Fang Chens soul watched him from the sky, curious to know what he was capable of.


    Since the other party had lured him in here, it was likely there were some restrictions imposed on this ce to prevent him from easily leaving this ce. He would be able to prepare more contingency ns if he could gain a deeper understanding of this ce.


    Ideally, he wanted to save Li Daoye and the others and retrieve the treasures.


    But of course, things might not go to n either. Luck yed a huge factor too. That was why people often said it was 30% human and 70% fate.


    Even if I fail to capture that brat, I cant let him take my sword embryo away. It has been 200 years since the Empyrean Immortal Sword Sect lost the item, so the heat surrounding it should have mostly dispersed by now, Enlightenment Heaven Supreme murmured.


    He formed a hand seal with his hand, which manifested as a surge of dim light. Momentster, the bat fae and stone fae arrived outside the hill, awaiting his orders.


    Capture all of the humans who entered this ce, Enlightenment Heaven Supreme ordered.


    The two faes turned around and left.


    Enlightenment Heaven Supreme looked exhausted. He slowly returned to his pce, lightly patted the jade pedestal, and an opening appeared beneath. Hey in the opening, closed his eyes, and fell deeply asleep.


    Looks like he cant use this body for too long. Perhaps his soul hasnt fully fused with his body yet. Fang Chen chuckled.


    This simplified the matter. As long as Li Daoye could grit his teeth and hold on, he should be able to safely leave this ce.


    The next moment, Fang Chens soul appeared above Li Daoye and Chaoxianggong Nisheng.


    The two of them were frantically rushing to the entrance. Every now and then, they would bump into a ferocious beast, but fortunately, these beasts were nowhere as powerful as the stone fae and the bat fae, so they were still able to cope.


    This wont do. If that ck-cloaked man manages to capture Daoist Fang, well be next, Chaoxianggong Nisheng said.


    What do you suggest? Li Daoye rolled his eyes.


    We need to make haste. I havent fully recovered from my injury yet, but I should be able to barely fly with my sword. Lets first escape as far as possible, then I need to find a safe spot where I can recuperate. Ill need you to protect me then, Chaoxianggong Nisheng said.


    Of course! Leave that to me. Li Daoye nodded.


    Chaoxianggong Nisheng took out her sword and rode on it together with Li Daoye. It was a tough flightthe sword wouldnt stop shakingbut it was much faster than them traveling on foot.


    A dayter, the two of them finally returned to the entrance.


    Chaoxianggong Nisheng sat down to recuperate. Li Daoye held the end of his promise and kept a lookout for her.


    Ey, I hope young master Fang is alive. He sacrificed himself to lure the ck-cloaked man away, so that we could escape. I really owe him big this time, Li Daoye remarked.


    Brother Li? a shocked voice echoed.


    Li Daoye looked over and broke out into a smile. Its the three of you! I thought you died in the hands of the stone fae.


    However, his smile immediately crumbled when he saw Li Xiuming following the three of them.


    Li Xiuming also saw Li Daoye, followed by the recuperating Chaoxianggong Nisheng, and he immediately deduced that she must have consumed the 100-year-old Scarlet Fruit or the Blood Ginseng, or else there was no way she could have survived till now.


    His face immediately darkened.


    Brother Xia, we have to kill my junior now. Shes severely injured now, but shes in the midst of recuperating. I wont be able to curb her in my current condition if she recovers from her injuries, and neither will the rest of you, Li Xiuming urged.


    Li Daoye was momentarily stunned before he angrily berated, Screw you, Li Xiuming! How shameless can you get? You were the one who first assaulted Miss Nisheng so that you can take another cultivationpanion! Tsk, you look like a decent human being, but who could have thought that you were actually a gigolo!


    Xia Yun and his two juniors were surprised to hear that. They quickly distanced themselves from Li Xiuming.


    Brother Li, what do they mean by that? Xia Yun asked with a frown.


    Dont believe them. Just search his body. The ki stones and sword embryo must be with him! Li Xiuming calmly replied. Otherwise, it must be with Fang Chen.


    But Daoist Fang has been captured, Liu Suifeng replied.


    What?! Li Daoye leaped to his feet in shock. Did you just say that young master Fang has been captured? Did you see it with your own eyes?!


    We did. Xia Yun sighed. Daoist Fang has indeed been captured. Unfortunately, we werent strong enough to help him.


    Damn it! Why is he so unlucky?! Li Daoye was in distress.


    This To verify Li Xiumings words, will you allow us to search your body? Liu Suifeng asked.


    Search my body? How could you trust an outsiders words? Look at how severely injured Miss Nisheng is! Do you think wed be strong enough to steal anything from him? Li Daoye sneered. He is emaciated now, but thats because a ck-cloaked figure siphoned his blood essence. Even I, young master Fang, and Miss Nishengbined werent a match for him before!


    Xia Yun was silent for a few seconds before sighing. We dont care about that. We received some injuries and lost quite a bit of our fortuneing in here. Thest thing we want is to make a loss here. Let us search your body. Well admit our fate if you really dont have any ki stones or Blood Ginseng.

 Chapter 196: The Way Out

    Chapter 196: The Way Out


    Hes conscience-stricken, Li Xiuming sneered.


    He had been keeping an eye on Chaoxianggong Nishengs condition, but it was a pity that he was far too weakened to kill her in front of Xia Yun and the others.


    Conscience-stricken? Li Daoye sneered. What reason do I have to feel conscience stricken? Young master Fang earned these ki stones with his life! He sacrificed himself to lure that ck-cloaked man away to save us. These belong to him. They have nothing to do with you!


    Look, he admitted it, Li Xiuming scoffed.


    Xia Yun frowned. You said Daoist Fang intentionally lured away that ck-cloaked man?


    Do you think he would have gotten captured otherwise? If you want the ki stones, youll have to wait till young master Fang returns. Li Daoye harrumphed.


    He wont be returning. Xia Yun sighed. We saw him getting taken away by that bat fae with our own eyes.


    Senior Xia, lets not waste our time with words. Now that Daoist Fang is dead, theres no reason for us to show respect to a mere Eight Trigrams Sects disciple, Liu Suifeng sneered.


    He turned to Li Daoye and said, We brought you here out of respect for Daoist Fang. Otherwise, someone of your cultivation isnt even worthy of traveling with us. If you know whats good for you, hand over all of the ki stones and treasures. We will at least split a portion with you so that you dont make a wasted trip.


    Hmph! Li Daoye snorted. You are shameless!


    You shouldnt forget that were cultivators, Liu Suifeng said.


    He was saying that cultivators prioritized their interest above everything else. Shame meant nothing to them.


    Fine, Ill hand the ki stones to you, but I want you to kill that fellow on our behalf. Hes much worse than the rest of you, Li Daoye said with gritted teeth as he pointed at Li Xiuming.


    Xia Yun and the others exchanged looks before turning to Li Xiuming.


    Heh! Li Xiuming wasposed. I am a disciple of Everchange Mountain. Kill me if you want, but know that I wont die in vain. My sect elders will investigate the matter and avenge me. Pray that your sect is strong enough to protect you or else you might implicate your sect too.


    The three of them had never heard about Everchange Mountain, but they could deduce how strong it was from Li Xiuming and Chaoxianggong Nishengs cultivation. It was likely to be no weaker than their South Heaven Sect.


    Li Daoye, I dont know what happened between you and him, but you can settle it between the two of you. Hand over the items now. If I have to make a move, it wont end nicely, Liu Suifeng said.


    Is that so? Changxianggong Nisheng opened her eyes and looked at Liu Suifeng, I havent recovered from my injuries yet, but you wont be able to take a single blow from me either.


    Liu Suifengs face darkened.


    Miss Nisheng, hows your injuries? Have you recovered your spirit ki? Li Daoye was delighted.


    Chaoxianggong Nisheng nodded. She turned to Li Xiuming and asked, Senior, are you disappointed that Im not dead yet?


    Junior, you were the one who schemed with them against me, Li Xiuming replied.


    Youre truly shameless. How could I have never noticed it? Everyone in Everchange Mountain has been deceived by your hypocritical act, Chaoxianggong Nisheng scoffed before ncing at Xia Yun and the others. Kill Li Xiuming, and not only will I split the treasures with you, but there will be a handsome reward awaiting you once I return to Everchange Mountain.


    Dont listen to her. No good cane out of killing an Everchange Mountains disciple, no matter the reason, Li Xiuming replied.


    Xia Yun and the others were put in a spot.


    Just then, they heard the sound of the wind. They quickly raised their heads and saw the bat fae heading in their direction.


    Flee! Xia Yun shouted.


    Needless to say, their life was more important than mere ki stones.


    Lets go. Chaoxianggong Nisheng escaped with Li Daoye too.


    While they were making their getaway, they saw the stone fae appearing in the horizon.


    Fifteen minutester, the two of them scanned their surroundings and heaved a sigh of relief when they didnt see either of the faes. Chaoxianggong Nisheng turned to Li Daoye and asked, Why did you cry?


    Me? Cry? You must be kidding! Li Daoye quickly rubbed his eyes, which were still a little red. Its just that some sand got into my eyes but if the bat fae ising after us, itd mean that young master Fang might really be dead. Its only normal for me to be upset.


    He wont die in vain. As long as I return to Everchange Mountain, Ill make sure that ck-cloaked man dies a terrible death, Chaoxianggong Nisheng said after a moment of silence.


    Are you certain? You look like a normal disciple. Will your elders really listen to you? Li Daoye was skeptical.


    Would Li Xiuming approach me if I was a normal disciple? Hes just dumping me because Senior Sister Chen can offer him much more, Chaoxianggong Nisheng replied in self-derision.


    I see Li Daoye nodded.


    Just then, they heard amotion behind them, so they fled without any hesitation.


    Time passed in a sh.


    Two dayster, the group returned to the entrance. It had been ten days since they entered this ce, so they should be able to leave the ce today.


    Within these two days, Chaoxianggong Nisheng and Li Daoye had turned terribly unkempt. There were dozens of injuries inflicted on their bodies.


    Xia Yun and the others didnt fare any better either.


    Li Xiumings left arm was even broken. When he saw Chaoxianggong Nisheng once more, his face was more livid than ever.


    Ten days are already up. Why isnt the entrance opening?! Liu Suifeng eximed grimly.


    Xia Yun also stepped forward to take a look. A thought surfaced in his mind, and he widened his eyes in astonishment. We might have been fooled by that Ji ns Nightmare Knight.


    He fooled us? Li Daoye exchanged looks with Chaoxianggong Nisheng, and both their faces turned ghastly pale.


    It hadnt been easy at all for them to survive to this day. If the entrance didnt open, they might not necessarily be able to survive even today.


    The sound of the wind echoed above once more. It was a sound all of them had grown ustomed to. The bat fae was here again.


    Just as they were about to scatter and flee once more, a surge of golden light suddenly glowed from the entrance. The Eight Trigrams Restriction Art began revolving.


    All of them were overjoyed. The entrance was opening!


    Ji Congyun stood with his hands behind his back. Standing beside him was a Nightmare Knight.


    Are you sure you saw these people? Ji Congyun asked.


    Yes, Old Master. It is them that we saw. We have locked them inside the cavern, and they should be stuck there for at least a year, the leader of the Nightmare Knights who locked Fang Chen in looked at a couple of portraits as he replied.


    These were portraits of Fang Chen and the others.


    Wonderful! Ji Congyunughed heartily. They might be immortals, but theres no way they can survive being trapped in there for a year. You did well! Hahaha!


    Who is it? someone suddenly shouted.


    Ji Congyun turned around and saw two people flitting over while carrying a carriage.


    Its you? Ji Congyun was startled to see Zhao Yun and Xu Ge. It made him wonder who was in the carriage.

 Chapter 197: Kill Li Xiuming!

    Chapter 197: Kill Li Xiuming!


    Elder Ji, we meet again, Zhao Yan said with a smile.


    What are you doing here? Whos inside that carriage? Ji Congyun asked with a frown.


    Who else can be in the carriage? It goes without saying that its our young master, Xu Ge replied with a sneer.


    <em>Fang Chen? </em>Ji Congyun and the nearby Nightmare Knights were shocked.


    It cant be your young master! the leader of the Nightmare Knights blurted out.


    Just then, the carriages curtains parted, and Fang Chen walked out. He first stretched his body before looking at the bbergasted leader of the Nightmare Knights. We meet again.


    How are you here the leader of the Nightmare Knights asked with quivering lips. He looked as if he had seen a ghost.


    He clearly saw Fang Chen and the others entering the cavern with his own eyes. How could Fang Chen be standing before him right now?!


    Ji Congyun sighed. <em>It looks like these Nightmare Knights have been taken on a ride.</em>


    Is that dragon head seal the key to lifting the caverns restriction art? Fang Chen asked Ji Congyun with a smile.


    He knows everything The crowd felt chilled.


    Ji Congyun heaved another sigh in his heart before tossing the dragon head seal to Fang Chen. Yes, this is indeed the key to the caverns restriction art. Young master Fang, you may take it if you want.


    Fang Chen fiddled with the dragon head seal as he asked, Your subordinate wanted to trap us in there and kill us. How do you intend to deal with him?


    Old Master, I The leader of the Nightmare Knights turned pale as he looked at Ji Congyun with pleading eyes.


    Bam!


    Ji Congyun struck him with his palm, sending thetter flying fifty meters away. This strike shattered his ribcage and squashed his heart, ending his life.


    The nearby Nightmare Knights fell silent like cicadas in winter. They had never thought a day woulde where someone from Great Xia would corner them so much that even the Ji ns patriarch had no choice but to do his bidding.


    Are you satisfied, young master Fang? Ji Congyun sped his fist and asked.


    Passable. Fang Chen nodded.


    He walked up to the cavern and slipped the dragon head seal in to lift the restriction art. Momentster, he heard amotion from within.


    Several figures rushed out in a hurry. They were Li Daoye and the others.


    Fang Chen quickly took out the seal and ced the restriction art back in ce.


    What a close shave! We are lucky the restriction art was lifted just in time, or else we would have died in there! Li Daoye patted his chest in relief.


    Chaoxianggong Nisheng kept her guard up as she warily scanned the crowd around her. Her eyes widened in disbelief when she noticed Fang Chen.


    Li Daoye, shouldnt you hand our stuff over now that you have escaped alive? Liu Suifeng asked.


    Both he and Tantai Qingxuan had their eyes fixed on Li Daoye. In contrast, Xia Yun wasnt saying a word, but it was obvious he was siding with his two juniors.


    Li Xiuming stood behind the three of them, his eyes focused on Chaoxianggong Nisheng. He was waiting for an opportunity to strike.


    Kill Li Xiuming, and Ill hand the ki stones and Blood Ginseng to you. Li Daoye harrumphed.


    Audacious! Liu Suifeng roared. Dont think that we dare not touch you, a mere Eight Trigrams Sects disciple!


    Is that so? a voice echoed.


    The crowd was taken aback. <em>Isnt this Fang Chens voice?! But he died in the cavern, right? Even if he didnt die, he didnte out with us earlier. How is it that were hearing Fang Chens voice here?</em>


    When the crowd finally walked out of the cavern, they saw Fang Chen calmly looking at them.


    Young master Fang?! Li Daoye gasped. Are you a human or a ghost? Or is this a dream?


    What are you saying? Its broad daylight, Fang Chen replied.


    Ah, right. It would make more sense for me to be dreaming at night. You shoulde back at night instead, Li Daoye instinctively replied.


    Daoist Fang isnt dead, Chaoxianggong Nisheng couldnt stand Li Daoyes denseness anymore and snorted.


    <em>He isnt dead?! </em>


    It was only then that the dense Li Daoye grasped what was going on and rubbed his eyes. When he saw the shadow under Fang Chens feet, he blurted out in delight, Young master Fang, youre alive? And you came out earlier than us?!


    Fang Chen nodded with a smile.


    This put Xia Yun and his two juniors in an awkward position. <em>Fang Chen must have heard what we said earlier </em>


    Miss Nisheng, lets end this, Fang Chen said.


    The two of them immediately flitted forth. Their targetLi Xiuming!


    Xia Yun and his two juniors hurriedly stepped aside while watching the situation.


    How dare you! Li Xiuming was infuriated. <em>How dare a measly little cultivator attack an Everchange Mountain disciple? </em>


    However, he was even more angry at Chaoxianggong Nisheng for working together with an outsider against him. <em>Does she not remember our past ties at all?!</em>


    A human-faced beast scum. Die! Chaoxianggong Nisheng might not have fully recovered from her injuries yet, but her sword, driven by her rage, was fiercer than ever.


    Li Xiuming tried to fight back, but he was so weakened that his flying sword was sent flying into the cliff as soon as he brought it out.


    Damn it!


    Li Xiuming sweated profusely. He tried to channel his spirit ki to fend against Chaoxianggong Nishengs flying sword in a fluster.


    As for Fang Chen, Li Xiuming didnt think a weak cultivator like him could breach his defense, so he didnt see the other party as a threat.


    Due to that, Fang Chen easily got close to Li Xiuming. He raised his Moonsunk Gold Truncheon and hacked it down on Li Xiuming. Right after performing the attack, he quickly stowed away the Moonsunk Gold Truncheon lest someone see it.


    Pu pu pu!


    Chaoxianggong Nishengs flying sword pierced through Li Xiumings body multiple times.


    An outsider would have thought that Li Xiuming had been overpowered and couldnt fight back anymore, but Chaoxianggong Nisheng knew better. She knew that Li Xiuming couldst a hundred rounds against him even in his weakened state. He shouldnt have run out of strength that quickly.


    The next moment, Li Xiumings body suddenly dissipated like a sand statue blown away by a furious gust. All that was left of him was a storage ring.


    Chaoxianggong Nisheng let out a turbid breath after confirming Li Xiumings death. She turned to Fang Chen and said, There should be some ki stones in his storage ring. Its all yours.


    I wont stand on ceremony, Fang Chen replied as he epted the storage ring.


    Daoist Fang, you have my deepest gratitude for saving my life. May we meet again. Chaoxianggong Nisheng sped her fist to Fang Chen. She took onest nce at Li Xiumings remains before leaving on her sword.


    That wretched man is finally dead! Li Daoye spat. He was delighted by Li Xiumings death.


    Daoist Fang, our earlier words were inappropriate. I hope that you wont pay them any heed Xia Yun sped his fist and said sheepishly.


    We are people from different worlds, but Ill at least let you leave in peace in view that we came from the same roots, Fang Chen said.


    The faces of the trio darkened.


    I was the one who Xia Yun tried to argue.


    Dont test my patience, Fang Chen interjected.


    Lets go, senior, Liu Suifeng said stiffly.


    Fine. Xia Yun turned around and left with his two juniors. They didnt want to cross blows with Fang Chen out of fear of his background.


    Ji Congyun watched this sight with contemtive eyes. <em>It looks like the immortals arent a united bunch either </em>


    Those three arent good things either. Li Daoye watched the three of them leave with gloating eyes before turning back to Fang Chen. Young master Fang, shall we retreat first? It might be dangerous if the faes in there chase us out here.


    Wait for me here with the others. Ill be heading in, Fang Chen said.


    What?! Li Daoye gasped in shock.

 Chapter 198: Returning to Coldreturn Hill

    Chapter 198: Returning to Coldreturn Hill


    Young master Fang, are you out of your mind? You know whats lurking in there, but you still want to head in there to court your own death?! Li Daoye eximed.


    Zhao Yan and Xu Ge were curious to know what was in the cavern to terrify Li Daoye so much. Thetter had always put on a fearless front, albeit trembling a little whenever the Blood Spirit Cult was mentioned.


    Wait, are you the real young master Fang? Li Daoye suddenly realized something. If you are the real young master Fang, then the person who went in with us was


    It didnt make sense that Fang Chen could escape from that ce faster than them, considering how they had left as soon as the restriction art was lifted.


    Pluck a weed from its roots. Fang Chen patted Li Daoyes shoulders. Wait here. Dont hesitate to run if you sense any anomaly.


    With that, Fang Chen headed toward the cavern and opened the passageway with the dragon head seal. Then, he turned around and beckoned Ji Congyun, Elder Ji, youll being in with me to do me a favor.


    Me? Ji Congyun was taken aback. He looked at Fang Chen with a helpless smile and said, Im a mere martial artist. I dont think Ill be of any help to you inside.


    I wont be at ease if you remain outside. If you refuse to enter with me, Ill make no choice but to take other actions, Fang Chen said with a sigh.


    All right, Ill apany you on this trip, young master Fang.


    Knowing he had no choice, Ji Congyun followed Fang Chen into the cavern.


    Xu Ge patted Li Daoyes shoulder and asked, Daoye, whats in there? Why is the Ji ns patriarch so afraid?


    Whats in there? Hah, a lot of powerful faes, Li Daoye proudly replied. I would have never been able to return alive if not for my divine means. A martial artist like you would have died many times over inside.


    Is it that scary? Xu Ge was surprised.


    Zhao Yan nced at the nearby Nightmare Knights and saw their looks of agreement. That added credence to Li Daoyes words, so he asked out of curiosity, What about me?


    You? Li Daoye thought hard about it before replying, You should be able to survive, but thats hard to say. If you encounter that bat fae, it could stall you until you run out of energy.


    Longevity Ki martial artists wereparable to eighth stage Ki Refinement martial artists; the only difference was that former exerted inner ki, whereas thetter exerted spirit ki.


    Li Daoye figured that Zhao Yan was unlikely to be able to y any of the beasts as they were protected by spirit ki, but again, an expert of his caliber wouldnt go down that easily either. He stood a better chance at surviving than Xu Ge.


    Since thats the case, I shall go in and aid the young master, Zhao Yan said.


    Li Daoye quickly stopped him. Dont be a burden. I said that you should be able to survive, but that doesnt mean that youd be useful. You wont be able to subdue any of the faes in there. Thats the fundamental difference between inner ki and spirit ki, and it cant be bridged by any means.


    But Zhao Yan was hesitant.


    But what? Shouldnt you know your young master well? I thought that he died there and nearly shed tears for him, but what happened in the end? Li Daoye harrumphed. In any case, he probably has a n in mind. Lets just wait here lest these people block the exit again.


    He red at the nearby Nightmare Knights.


    Xu Ge nodded in agreement. Daoye is right. Our young master wouldnt have returned to the cavern if he wasnt confident. Lets just patiently wait here.


    All right. Zhao Yan nodded.


    The stone fae and the bat fae appeared to have already left. The entrance was peaceful.


    Ji Congyun hesitated for a moment before saying, Young master Fang, we have to wait at least ten days before we can leave this ce. Can you tell whats your goal here so that I can prepare myself for it?


    Even Immortal Zuo dared to return here anymore aftering here once. Simrly, Ji Congyun had only been here once because he knew of the threats lurking here.


    He couldnt help but feel nervous now that he was trapped inside for ten days. He might be a Longevity Ki martial artist, but he was still a mortal in the face of death.


    You wont be of any help to me, Fang Chen replied.


    Fuck this! Even Ji Congyun, who had been brought up in a cultured environment, couldnt help but spew a curse. <em>He brought me in despite not needing me at all? Does he want me to die in this godforsaken ce?!</em>


    However I guess you do have some value, after all. Ill be counting on you to lure the faes away, Fang Chen replied. Meet me here ten days from now. There are some nts here that are useless to cultivators but highly beneficial to martial artists like you. If I seed, Ill be able to scrape everything of value from this ce in a single go.


    Ji Congyun was taken aback. He stared at Fang Chen in disbelief as he asked, Young master Fang, do you mean it?


    Of course. Ill need the aid of your people then. As for the split, lets go with 1:9. You take 1, I take 9, Fang Chen said.


    1:9? Thats a bit Ji Congyun was tempted to haggle.


    You should be content to get a tenth of it. You probably didnt get anything good here from worshiping your cultivator either, else you wouldnt have been stuck at Longevity Ki for so long, Fang Chen replied.


    He had noticed many herbs and fruits while traveling to and fro the Coldreturn Hill.


    These herbs and fruits contained very little spirit ki and were nowhere on par with the Scarlet Fruits and the Blood Ginseng, but they were great for raising a martial artists martial cultivation! If they could scrape this ce clean, it would be a piece of cake for them to nurture a hundred Earth Profound realm martial artists!


    Are there resources here that can help me advance to Heaven Profound realm?! Ji Congyun was shaken up.


    There might be, Fang Chen replied with a smile. Now, you should get working.


    The bat fae whizzed across the sky from the horizon.


    Fang Chen unhesitatingly rushed toward Coldreturn Hill, leaving behind a dazed Ji Congyun. The bat fae alternated its gaze between the moving Fang Chen and the stationary Ji Congyun, and it decided to swoop down on thetter.


    Ji Congyun finally snapped out of his daze. His heart beat furiously when he caught sight of the bat fae. With a furious roar, he exerted his inner ki out to form a palm print.


    Boom!


    The bat fae was knocked ten meters away, but it was unharmed. Ji Congyuns inner ki was neutralized by the spirit ki cloaking it. Nevertheless, it was angry that a measly mortal actually dared to attack it.


    That was 80% of my strength, but I only knocked it ten meters away Ji Congyuns face turned pale. He clenched his teeth and fled.


    <em>I just need to survive ten days.</em>


    Fang Chens words echoed in his mind. <em>If I can get a tenth of whats in here, the Ji n will be able to rise above Chillwaters imperial family </em>


    Dayster, an unkempt Fang Chen finally arrived at Coldreturn Hill. The stone fae and a few other beasts eyed him with hostility from the foot of the hill, but they dared not to take a single step into the hill.


    Interesting. I thought you would go into hiding after making a fool out of me, but who could have thought that you would personally deliver yourself to me.


    Not too far away, Enlightenment Heaven Supreme stood loftily with his hands behind his back. He looked down on Fang Chen with a sinister smile.

 Chapter 199: Rankings

    Chapter 199: Rankings


    Fang Chen chuckled. Elder, its another puppet. My main body is waiting outside. It looks like you cant leave this ce?


    <em>Another puppet? </em>Enlightenment Heaven Supreme eyed Fang Chen from head to toe with a frown, but unfortunately, his cultivation was too low for him to discern whether Fang Chen was real or not.


    Is the sword embryo with you? You can take the Blood Ginseng and the Scarlet Fruits, but you have to return the sword embryo. Otherwise, my main body will personallye here to take it back, Enlightenment Heaven Supreme said. By then, you and the country you live in will have to suffer my wrath.


    Elder, you would have long returned if you could do so. You thought that I had a Saint-tier spirit medicine on the Spirit Medicine Ranking, after all. Speaking of which, Im curious to know what the Spirit Medicine Ranking is, Fang Chen said with a smile.


    A cold glint shed across Enlightenment Heaven Supremes eyes.


    Fang Chen was right. It would be difficult for his main body toe here at the moment, or at least in the short run.


    All of the grade-1 states gathered their sect ancestors together to establish a series of rankings, of which, the Emperor Ranking, the Spirit Medicine Ranking, and the Spirit Artifact Ranking are the most famous ones, Enlightenment Heaven Supreme replied.


    As he spoke, he tried to analyze whether Fang Chen was a puppet or the main body, as well as his motive for returning here. He didnt think that Fang Chen hade here just to court death.


    Oh? Im interested to know more, Fang Chen sped his fist and said.


    This isnt the ce to speak. Come with, Enlightenment Heaven Supreme said.


    All right. Fang Chen nodded as he readily followed Enlightenment Heaven Supreme.


    <em>Hm? </em>Enlightenment Heaven Supreme was perplexed. <em>If hes willing to follow me, he should be a puppet, right? Theres no way the main body would have been so bold as to follow me. </em>


    This is thest puppet I have remaining. Please dont harm it, or else you will never know the whereabouts of the Saint-tier spirit medicine, Fang Chen casually said.


    Enlightenment Heaven Supreme had been tempted to attack Fang Chen to figure out the truth, but those wordspelled him to suppress his urge. He impassively said, Cut the crap and follow me.


    Soon, they arrived at a courtyard.


    Fang Chen casually grabbed a stone chair and sat down. Enlightenment Heaven Supreme took the opposite seat and quietly assessed him.


    Whats your motive for returning here? Enlightenment Heaven Supreme asked.


    I want to strike a deal with you, but before that, Id like you to tell me more about the world of cultivation, Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    <em>Strike a deal? </em>Enlightenment Heaven Supremes eyes lit up. <em>He must be reluctant to give up on this fortuitous encounter. He knows that Im a powerful cultivator, so he wants to make a trade and get something good out of it. </em>


    The thought of that calmed Enlightenment Heaven Supreme down. He nodded his head and spoke in a much gentler tone, Very well. Lets start with the Emperor Ranking. The Emperor Ranking was established by the sect ancestors, though the reason it was established remains unknown. Only the strongest experts are listed in the Emperor Ranking. The top twenty are all sect ancestors, whereas the following eighty are at least Ascendant cultivators.


    So, the Emperor Ranking lists the top hundred strongest cultivators in the world? Fang Chen nodded in realization. What cultivation realm is the Ascendant realm? And how strong are the sect ancestors?


    You dont even know all of the cultivation realms? How did you even be a cultivator? Do you have a sect? Enlightenment Heaven Supreme asked.


    Elder, you should stop probing me. I am just an unaffiliated cultivator. I only managed to be a cultivator because of the Saint-tier spirit medicine I consumed, Fang Chen replied.


    Enlightenment Heaven Supremeughed. Why would I need to probe you? Since you dont know a thing at all, I shall do you a favor and enlighten you.


    Cultivation realms are broadly divided into three categoriesthe Four Lower Realms, the Three Mid Realms, and the Three Upper Realms.


    The Four Lower Realms are Ki Refinement, Foundation Establishment, Golden Core, and Nascent Soul. Most cultivators are in the Four Lower Realms. Nascent Soul cultivators enjoy a lifespan of eight hundred years, making them immortal in mortal eyes.


    What about the Three Mid Realms? Fang Chen asked.


    The Mid Three Realms? I doubt youd ever reach that level in your life. Anyone who reaches this level is in the upper echelon of the world. The Mid Three Realms are Astral Projection, Soul Severance, and Grand Harmonization.


    Elder, you must be an expert of that realm, Fang Chen remarked in awe as he made sure to memorize everything he had just heard.


    Are you trying to probe me? Enlightenment Heaven Supreme sneered. Ill tell you my cultivation realm if we ever get a chance to meet in the future. What do you say?


    I wouldnt want to meet your main body, Fang Chen replied.


    Enlightenment Heaven Supreme scoffed. As for the Three Upper Realms, they are Dao Convergence, Great Tribtion, and Ascendant. Those are realms you can hardly fathom even if you have lived a thousand lifetimes.


    Fang Chen ignored his mockery and asked, Is Ascendant the end of the path for cultivators? How strong are sect ancestors then?


    Sect ancestors? Anticipation flickered across Enlightenment Heaven Supremes eyes.


    Ascendant is the limit of a cultivator. Beyond that, a cultivator will ascend to the immortal realm and be a truly carefree existence. However, its a pity no one has ascended to the immortal realm in the past hundred thousand years. The immortal realms gates appear to have closed.


    Some of the Ascendant cultivators, upon nearing the limit of their lifespan, will choose to undergo Artifact Emancipation. Those who seed will be an untitled immortal, whereas those who fail return to the cycle of reincarnation.


    The sect ancestors you speak of are those who have sessfully be untitled immortals. Such existence can be otherwise termed as earth immortals. They dont possess the means of true immortals, but their powerse very close. They are revered as sect ancestors because they dictate their respective sects fates.


    Untitled immortals, sect ancestors Fang Chen wondered if Elder Cloudcrane was a sect ancestor too, but it seemed unlikely that he would catch the eye of an expert of such caliber.


    Then, he thought about the fairy he had seen amid the zing sun and wondered if she was a sect ancestor. <em>That makes things difficult. This is the first time that I felt something for someone, but it turns out that shes likely an untitled immortal. What the hell is this?</em>


    Simrly, the Spirit Medicine Ranking is a ranking listing the top hundred spirit medicines in the world. Every spirit medicine on the ranking is a spirit-tier spirit medicine. Thats also the case in the Spirit Artifact Ranking, but this one lists the top three hundred artifacts.


    How are spirit artifacts different from normal artifacts? Fang Chen asked.


    Enlightenment Heaven Supreme chuckled in disdain. Artifacts are divided into tiersHeaven, Earth, ck, and Yellow. Those in this category are the normal artifacts you speak of. Spirit artifacts are artifacts transcending Heaven artifacts. The same goes for Saint-tier spirit medicine too.


    Ah, so there are further tiers, Fang Chen murmured under his breath. What tiers are the 100-year-old Scarlet Fruit and the Blood Ginseng?


    Those two are pinnacle Yellow-tier spirit medicine. If you strike a deal with me, Ill give them to you and bestow you with a proper legacy on top of that, Enlightenment Heaven Supreme said.


    His answer was dozens of Purple Lightning Talismans.


    Amid the lightning, Fang Chen had already taken out the Moonsunk Gold Truncheon to smash the other partys head.


    You dare! Enlightenment Heaven Supreme was infuriated. <em>How dare he make a move on me?!</em>


    <strong>Starves Trivia:</strong>


    This is a chapter with lots of information, so let me just add a bit of context to some stuff, for those who arent familiar with cultivation stories.


    -


    <em>Untitled immortals: </em>These are people who be immortal in the mortal world. They are <em>untitled </em>because they arent proper immortals in the truest sense, but that doesnt mean that they are weak.


    They are also called earth immortals, as opposed to those who ascend to the immortal realm to be heaven immortals.


    -


    <em>Artifact Emancipation: </em>Its a process that involves being killed by a powerful weapon, in hopes that the death could trigger a metamorphosis for one to be an immortal. It is viewed as an inferior way of bing an immortal, aspared to ascending to the immortal realm.


    Imagine the body as a cocoon, and being killed is an attempt to open the cocoon to release the butterfly within.


    -


    Im not going to dissect each of the cultivation realms here as it will be a chunkload more of information.

 Chapter 200: Ants Shaking a Tree

    Chapter 200: Ants Shaking a Tree


    Boom!


    The Moonsunk Gold Truncheon smashed into a stone table, but it didnt hit Enlightenment Heaven Supreme. He had swiftly backed over thirty meters away and was ring at Fang Chen with frigid eyes.


    You have excellent movement skills, Fang Chen said. I was just probing you. Please dont think too much into it.


    Do you take me for a fool? Enlightenment Heaven Exalted sneered. He nced at the Moonsunk Gold Truncheon and said, A low Yellow-tier artifact made out of Moonsunk Gold. Twelve daosoul imprints? No wonder you dare to return here. You were hoping to kill me.


    A twelve daosoul imprint artifact was enough to threaten this body of his. If that artifact hadnded squarely on him, his spirit ki would have likely instantaneously dissipated.


    You recognize this artifact? As expected of Enlightenment Heaven Supreme, Fang Chen remarked in awe.


    Despite his words, his heart sank. The other party was able to tell right away that his artifact was made out of Moonsunk Gold. It was unlikely that the other party would give him a chance to approach him anymore.


    Your soul might be strong enough to lift that artifact, but youre too weak to stand a chance against me. Hah, I would have never thought a seventh stage Ki Refinement cultivator would dare attack me. You sure are a tenacious one! Enlightenment Heaven Supreme sneered.


    I would never dare to attack you, Enlightenment Heaven Supreme. I just wanted to test your means. Why dont we discuss the deal now? Fang Chen asked.


    Youre stalling for time. You must have depleted a lot of spirit ki to use that artifact at your cultivation level, so youre trying to buy time to recover. Do you take me for a fool? Since you dared to attack me, you should suffer the consequences even if its merely a puppet!


    Enlightenment Heaven Supreme sneered. Let me show you my mystic artIncense Gold Avatar!


    A golden light shone from his body and manifested into an avatar of pure gold.


    Without any hesitation, Fang Chen turned tail and fled.


    Where do you think youre going?


    Enlightenment Heaven Supreme chased after Fang Chen. His footsteps were so heavy that they left massive holes on the ground, yet his speed was many times faster than Fang Chen. Seconds were all it took for him to catch up.


    However, Fang Chen immediately retaliated with ten Purple Lightning Talismans.


    Furious purple lightning bolts crackled on Enlightenment Heaven Supreme, but they couldnt breach the gold avatar around him and failed to inflict any damage on him.


    Enlightenment Heaven Supreme scoffed. <em>A mere ant thinks he can shake the sky?</em>


    Bam!


    Fang Chen suddenly lurched forward at an incredible speed. A palm harnessing tremendous force and spirit ki had struck his back,pletely shattering theyer of spirit ki protecting him.


    Pu!


    He spewed blood and rolled over fifty meters on the ground before stalling to a halt.


    <em>I underestimated him</em> Fang Chen gasped. The other partys means exceeded his expectations.


    A single palm, and youre already at your limit? Enlightenment Heaven Supreme sneered.


    He gazed down loftily at Fang Chen like a cat toying with a mouse and questioned, Who gave you, a measly seventh stage Ki Refinement cultivator, the courage to attack me? This body of mine might becking, but its at twelfth stage Ki Refinement. Did you think that little artifact of yours is enough to bridge the gap between us?


    <em>There is indeed a huge gap between us. If I was at eleventh stage Ki Refinement, I might still have been able to hold my ground against him with the Moonsunk Gold Truncheon. Otherwise, if I had some pinnacle-grade Purple Lightning Talismans, I could have at least hurt him</em>


    Fang Chen looked at Enlightenment Heaven Supreme as his mind whirred into action.


    Unfortunately, pinnacle-grade Purple Lightning Talisman was demanding on the quality of the brush, cinnabar, and talisman paper. He was unable to obtain such high quality spirit material, so he was limited to drawing mid-grade Purple Lightning Talisman.


    He had two hundred more mid-grade Purple Lightning Talismans in his storage ring, but he suspected that he wouldnt be able to breach the other partys golden avatar even if he tossed all of them out at one go.


    Enlightenment Heaven Supreme, youll never find out the whereabouts of the Saint-tier spirit medicine if you destroy this puppet of mine, Fang Chen said.


    I have lost interest in the spirit medicine. Since this is merely a puppet, Ill destroy it and go after your main body. Ill use the Incense Spirit me to sear your soul for a hundred years so as to utterly obliterate it, such that you cant even return to the cycle of reincarnation, Enlightenment Heaven Supreme sneered.


    He had lost his patience.


    If so I can only admit defeat. Fang Chen sighed as if he had resigned himself to his fate.


    Enlightenment Heaven Supreme took a step forward. The next moment, Fang Chen grabbed the Moonsunk Gold Truncheon andunched another vicious strike.


    Ant.


    Enlightenment Heaven Supreme grabbed the Moonsunk Gold Truncheon and held it firmly in ce, not budging in the least even as the spirit ki on it assaulted his body.


    This was an attack that could disintegrate even a small hill, yet it looked no different from a childs toy before Enlightenment Heaven Supreme, incapable of dealing any damage.


    Bam!


    Enlightenment Heaven Supreme kicked Fang Chen in the stomach, sending him flying fifty meters before crashing into an old tree.


    By then, the Moonsunk Gold Truncheon had already fallen in the Enlightenment Heaven Supremes hand. He looked at the Moonsunk Gold Truncheon and suddenlyughed. Trash like this is worthy of being called an artifact?


    Kacha!


    He smashed the Moonsunk Gold Truncheon into countless pieces and scattered them all over.


    Fang Chens heart turned cold. His soul was imprinted on the Moonsunk Gold Truncheon, so its destruction dealt severe damage to him. Fresh blood wouldnt stop seeping from his mouth.


    Actually Enlightenment Heaven Supreme looked at Fang Chen and remarked, Your attacks might have worked if I was a normal twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator. At the very least, you wouldnt have ended in such a pitiful plight.


    Is that so? Fang Chen wiped off the blood on his lips before adjusting himself to rest against the tree.


    You are the first Ki Refinement cultivator to make me angry. You should be proud of that. Enlightenment Heaven Supremeughed. Of course, kudos to you for having the guts to look for me with your real body too.


    I am a puppet, Fang Chen insisted. Its useless even if you kill me.


    Your injuries wouldnt have worsened when I destroyed your artifact if you were a puppet, Enlightenment Heaven Supreme replied with a smile.


    Fang Chen sighed. The fact that youre keeping me alive means that you still covet the Saint-tier spirit medicine. So, what do you want to do?


    Im going to search your soul, Enlightenment Heaven Supreme replied. Youll suffer excruciating pain that will make you regret ever angering me. Before then, Id like to ask why you chose toe back. Is killing me that important to you? What do you stand to gain?


    This body of yours may pose a problem to me in the future. Id rather deal with it on the spot, Fang Chen replied.


    Thats all? Enlightenment Heaven Supreme was baffled. He wouldnt have returned if he was Fang Chen. To think that this Ki Refinement cultivator was even more tenacious than him!


    This is enough reason. If you dont get it, it only means that youre too young, Fang Chen replied.


    Hahaha! Enlightenment Heaven Supreme was so angry that he burst intoughter. <em>A defeated Ki Refinement cultivator dares to mock me for being too young?</em>


    He flitted up to Fang Chen and grabbed thetters head. Soul Search!

 Chapter 201: Benefactor

    Chapter 201: Benefactor


    <em>Pain! Excruciating pain!</em>


    Fang Chens face warped from the excruciating pain. This pain was many times worse than when his ki sea was crippled by the Vastseas martial artist in Three Realms Mountain.


    Why is there such a weird world in your memories? Enlightenment Heaven Supreme murmured to himself.


    <em>Hes browsing through my memories! </em>Fang Chen was horrified. This was the secret he had hidden for many years, but the other party actually found out about it!


    You arent from this realm. You reincarnated from somewhere else?! And you possess the memories of your previous life! Enlightenment Heaven Supreme was shocked.


    It was said that experts in the Three Upper Realms could reincarnate with memories of their previous life intact through their secret arts.


    However, Fang Chen was an ordinary person in his memories, not to mention that cultivators didnt exist in his previous world. How was he able to reincarnate with his memories intact?


    Enlightenment Heaven Supreme suddenly felt a surge of excitement. <em>Perhaps these memories might open a new door for my path to bing an incense immortal!</em>


    Fang Chen sweated profusely. He felt indignant. <em>How is he able to search through my soul easily despite my strong soul? Does my memory have nothing to do with my soul?</em>


    This wont do This bodys cultivation is too weak for me to slowly sieve through his memories. I should first find the Saint-tier spirit medicine. I can just keep him alive for the main body to deal with, Enlightenment Heaven Supreme murmured.


    He hastened his speed of sieving, skipping right past the useless memories. Soon, he saw what Fang Chen witnessed in the Three Realms Mountain.


    Amidst the zing sun, a figure gazed down on the mortal realm. Eyes of unparalleled authority, reminiscent of a deity, met gaze with the Enlightenment Heaven Supreme.


    AHHHH! Enlightenment Heaven Supreme suddenly screeched miserably.


    He released his grip on Fang Chens head to cover his own eyes. Blood was flowing profusely through the cracks of his fingers. His Incense Gold Avatar dispersed, reverting him to his body of flesh and blood.


    Fang Chen felt the pain dissipate and heaved a sigh of relief.


    Seeing Enlightenment Heaven Supremes state, he immediately hurled fireballs with his left hand and unleashed ice arrows with his right on the other party. He specifically targeted the other partys weaknesses.


    Enlightenment Heaven Supreme seemed to have lost his ability to fight back. Even as his body was being torn into shreds, he continued crying miserably in fear, shock, and pain.


    Pu!


    Enlightenment Heaven Supremes head was lopped off, and it rolled a far distance away. Yet, to Fang Chens horror, the other party continued screeching.


    AHHHHHHHH!


    Fang Chen walked up to take a look.


    Enlightenment Heaven Supremes eyes were covered in fresh blood; it was as if his eyeballs had melted down. His face was still warped as it was before his death. His mouth was no longer moving, yet his screams continued to echo in Fang Chens ears.


    The screams arenting from him No, its from him. Its the soul he has nted in this body that is screaming! Fang Chen widened his eyes in incredulity.


    Enlightenment Heaven Supreme had also gone blind after seeing the fairy, and his condition appeared to be even worse than his. Even the soul from his main body had sustained a severe trauma and was screeching ceaselessly.


    You first granted me the power to cultivate, and now you helped me deal with Enlightenment Heaven Supremes clone. You are truly my benefactor Fang Chen murmured.


    The screams were slowly quieting down, until all was left was silence.


    Fang Chen felt gleeful. Enlightenment Heaven Supremes main body was likely suffering right now as well. This hinted that the fairy in the zing sun was much stronger than Enlightenment Heaven Supreme.


    Just a mere glimpse in his memory was enough to reduce Enlightenment Heaven Supreme to such a state.


    Shes probably in the ranks of the sect ancestors, Fang Chen deduced.


    Momentster, he frowned.


    <em>Enlightenment Heaven Supreme knows some of my memories now. At the very least, he knows about my previous world. After what happened today, its unlikely that hell spare me. </em>


    Time is of essence. That fellow will likelye knocking in a matter of years. I need to quickly raise my cultivation to deal with him.


    Fang Chen began looting the Enlightenment Heaven Supremes corpse, but thetter didnt have anything on him at all. The only things he had here was the sword embryo, the ki stones, and the others.


    Regardless, Im alive and managed to destroy this body of his. I have at least aplished my goal here.


    Fang Chen stowed away the shattered fragments of the Moonsunk Gold Truncheon and spent the next few days quietly on Coldreturn Hill. He was waiting for the entrance to open.


    The destruction of the Moonsunk Gold Truncheon had greatly weakened Fang Chens fighting prowess, so he chose to avoid the beasts. Even so, he still ended up getting chased all around the ce.


    It wasnt easy for him to return to the entrance.


    There, he saw Ji Congyun hiding in the bushes, looking around furtively like a criminal. His clothes were torn to shreds, and a ring wound could be vaguely seen.


    Upon seeing Fang Chen, Ji Congyun emerged from the bushes and said with a darkened face, Young master Fang, as you have requested, I have bought time for you.


    Clearly, he wasnt happy with what he went through in thest ten days. He was used to living a high life, yet he spent ten days here being chased by faes. He was bound to be dissatisfied with this situation!


    Well done. Ill split a tenth of the treasures here to you, Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    Ji Congyun quietly nodded as he eyed Fang Chen in suspicion. He was curious to know where Fang Chen had gone and what he had achieved in thest ten days.


    He didnt believe what Fang Chen said about <em>pluck a weed from its roots</em>, and he didnt think that Fang Chen would return to this dangerous ce just to kill a person. He held onto the belief that Fang Chen had a greater purpose here.


    Besides, what else was here other than the faes? The Ji n had upied this ce for many years now, but they hadnt seen a single living being here!


    Just then, a ck shadow shed across the sky.


    Ji Congyun instinctively began slipping away.


    The gate will be opening in a few seconds time. If you slip away now, youll have to stay here for another ten more days, Fang Chen calmly said.


    Ji Congyun suppressed the fear in his heart while eyeing at the approaching bat fae. Meanwhile, Fang Chen remained perfectlyposed.


    Secondster, the gate opened, and Fang Chen walked in.


    Ji Congyun hurriedly followed suit. With that, he could finally put down the boulder weighing on his heart.


    For some reason, the beasts and faes in the cavern wouldnt leave the ce unless they were forcefully dragged out. This was an important piece of information the Ji n learned while they were capturing the Nightmare Steeds.


    Outside the cavern, Li Daoye and the others breathed a sigh of relief when they saw Fang Chen returning safe and sound.


    The Nightmare Knights frowned when they saw the shabby state Ji Congyun was in, which formed a stark contrast to Fang Chen. <em>Martial artists are indeed no match for cultivators. </em>


    Young master Fang, did you settle him? Li Daoye anxiously asked.


    Fang Chen nodded.


    Really?! That fellow was so powerful Li Daoye gulped his saliva as he eyed Fang Chen doubtfully.


    Cut the crap. You can take one Scarlet Fruit and half of the ki stones. Give me everything else. Fang Chen rolled his eyes and stretched his hand forth.

 Chapter 202: Ego Nurturing

    Chapter 202: Ego Nurturing


    Of course, of course! Li Daoyes eyes lit up.


    He was overjoyed to make away with a 100-year-old Scarlet Fruit and 500 low-grade ki stones. Were it not for Fang Chen, he wouldnt have gotten a single ki stone at all!


    The two of them split their spoils in front of JI Congyun and the others.


    With that, Fang Chen now had 800 low-grade ki stones in his storage ring. That was a fortune that even Foundation Establishment cultivators would struggle to raise at a whim.


    Ive made a killing. Li Daoyes heart felt sweet like honey.


    Fang Chen sighed. He took out the shattered fragments of his Moonsunk Gold Truncheon to show Li Daoye. You might have made a killing, but I made a huge loss.


    This Li Daoye gasped.


    <em>The twelve daosoul imprint Moonsunk Gold Truncheon has been destroyed?! Thats an artifact forged out of Moonsunk Gold! Its worth at least 300 to 500 low-grade ki stones in Infernozes ck market!</em>


    What a pity Li Daoye sighed. Such a wonderful artifact was destroyed


    Losses and gainse hand in hand. Fang Chen sighed once more as he stowed away the Moonsunk Gold Truncheons fragments.


    He turned to Ji Congyun and said, I havent dealt with the two faes in there yet, so you wont be able to send people in yet. Lets return to the capital for now. Ill subdue those two faes once my preparations are in ce. Meanwhile, you should station more people here.


    All right. Ji Congyun nodded.


    The group returned to the capital.


    Fang Chen and the others moved into the Ji Manor, where they received the highest privileges. Ji Congyun relinquished the courtyard he was staying in to Fang Chen and ordered Ji Lengxing and the other servants to be on standby to address Fang Chens needs.


    Young master Fang, I shant get involved in whatever happens next. Now that I have the Scarlet Fruit and ample ki stones on hand, I wish to find a quiet ce where I can spend a few years in seclusion training. I want to first raise my cultivation before returning to Infernoze.


    Li Daoye bade Fang Chen farewell.


    There might still be good stuff in that ce. You arent interested? Fang Chen asked with an enigmatic smile.


    Li Daoye rolled his eyes before earnestly replying, Its thanks to your thick thighs that I received such handsome rewards, Otherwise, I would have died many times over by now. A 100-year-old Scarlet Fruit and 500 low-grade ki stones; thats enough to fuel my cultivation needs for years, so I shant be too greedy. Feel free to visit me at the Eight Trigrams Sect if you need me. I wont turn down your request as long as its within my means.


    Zhao Yan and Xu Ge nodded in approval.


    Fang Chen reined in his smile and stood up. With a serious look, he patted Li Daoyes shoulder and said, Cultivate hard. I hope to venture into the world of cultivation with you one day.


    Ill be looking forward to that day. Li Daoye nodded with a smile before leaving.


    Fang Chen didnt see him off, but he drew out his soul and followed Li Daoye for an entire day. Only when thetter safely made his way out of Chillwater did he finally retract his soul.


    Fang Chen spent the next few days drawing Purple Lightning Talismans. He didnt have any spirit materials left, so he could only make the weaker low-grade Purple Lightning Talismans. However, this was his way of cultivation.


    The Purple Lightning Talismans that he drew were just bonuses.


    The spirit ki in his body had bulked up significantly after the tribtions he had faced over thest few days, such that he sessfully manifested his eighth immortal vein a few dayster.


    In a few short months, he advanced from a newbie to eighth stage Ki Refinement. The immortal veins he had forged were also firm and pure.


    Let me try the ego nurturing method.


    After reinforcing his cultivation, Fang Chen took out the sword embryo that Enlightenment Heaven Supreme spoke so highly about.


    The silver sword embryo was like sentient mercury; it flowed smoothly on Fang Chens palm. asionally, a bubble would pop out.


    The Empyrean Immortal Sword Sect should be decently strong, or else Enlightenment Heaven Supreme should have assimted the sword embryo right away. He probably stored it here as a precaution lest the Empyrean Immortal Sword Sect realizes that he stole it.


    Nurturing a sword embryo was a long process. Those who were luckier could take three to five years, whereas those who were down on their luck might require decades. But once the sword embryo takes form, the resulting artifact was bound to be much stronger than ordinary artifacts.


    Chaoxianggong Nishengs ego nurturing method isnt too strong. I wonder if its enough to nurture this sword embryo Fang Chen wondered.


    He ced the sword embryo in front of him before slowly closing his eyes. He began circting his spirit ki in a unique pathway. With each cirction, the middle of his forehead would redden a little.


    His spirit ki was being swiftly depleted. With just six circtions, he had already depleted 80% of his spirit ki. This was even more taxing than drawing Purple Lightning Talismans.


    Unknowingly, he forced out a droplet of blood essence from the center of his forehead.


    All beings in the world possessed blood essence, be it cultivators or mortals. For mortals, their blood essence was hidden in their body to sustain their bodys daily depletion.


    Sickness signaled an ailing blood essence. Death meant the withering of ones blood essence.


    The stronger an individual was, the richer their blood essence. Martial artists had richer blood essence than ordinary mortals, whereas the blood essence of cultivators was superior to that of martial artists.


    The art of ego nurturing involved forcing out ones blood essence and using it alongside spirit ki to assimte an unformed artifact. Over time, the artifact would be nurtured into an ego artifact.


    The more blood essence used, the faster the speed of assimtion. However, a cultivator would be weakened whenever they lost their blood essence, so they needed time to recover.


    Fang Chen wrapped his blood essence with his spirit ki before delivering it to the silver sword embryo. A red tinge flowed into its silver body and slowly fused with it.


    Boom!


    Fang Chen heard a loud bang. All of a sudden, he was transported into the middle of space, where he saw countless stars twinkling around him.


    Where am I?! Fang Chen was taken aback.


    <em>I was in the midst of nurturing my sword embryo, right? Why was I suddenly transported here? Is this an illusion?</em>


    Just then, a loud explosion echoed. Fang Chen looked over and trembled in shock.


    A massive reflecting a cold gleam was copsing. The fragments of its copsed body ricocheted all around as meteorites. Some of the stars were bombarded by the meteorites and ended up being crushed into bits.


    Just like that, the massive peeled off bit by bit until its spherical silver inner core was revealed.


    This Its the same aura as the silver sword embryo! Was the sword embryo made out of as core? Fang Chen was mesmerized.


    An even more shocking image appeared next. A massive palm emerged from the sky and slowly grabbed the silver core. It took the silver core away with it before vanishing into thin air.


    Silence returned to the world. It was as if the earliermotion was just an illusion.


    Before Fang Chen could think deeper into what it meant, he was dragged back to the real world. He opened his eyes and saw the sword embryo flying before him, looking much more energetic.


    It felt like an inexplicable connection had been forged between him and the sword embryo.


    Im starving No, that isnt right. I am a cultivator. I might not have reached the level of grain avoidance, but I wont feel hungry even if I dont eat for a month or two. This feeling of hunger isnt from me but the sword?


    Fang Chen looked at the sword embryo and asked probingly, Are you the one rying your hunger to me?


    The flying sword embryo paused for a brief moment before moving up and down, as if nodding its head.


    <em>Hungry, hungry, hungry! </em>


    The sword embryos thoughts gushed over like a furious tsunami.


    This Ive already expended a droplet of blood essence. You should at least give me some time to recover, right? Fang Chen sighed.

 Chapter 203: Eat and Sleep

    Chapter 203: Eat and Sleep


    The sword embryo paid him no heed and continued flooding him with its thoughts.


    Fang Chens face darkened.


    <em>This fellows background is indeed extraordinary. If what I saw earlier was real, it would mean that this sword embryo is actually the core of a massive, and that hand is likely the doing of a sect ancestor-level existence!</em>


    <em>Even so, if this fellow demands to be fed an endless supply of blood essence, it would be no different from a malevolent entity. Not only must I not use it, but I also have to find a way to seal it off. Otherwise, its existence will be like a time bomb that may explode at any moment.</em>


    Fang Chen suddenly froze up. He sensed the sword embryo rying its indignance.


    You dont want my blood essence? Fang Chen asked in surprise.


    The sword embryo shook sideways.


    Then what do you want to eat Fang Chen asked.


    The sword embryo was unable to ry detailed information, possibly because their connection wasnt deep enough. Even so, Fang Chen could sense it slowly bing anxious.


    Calm down, let me try to figure it out. Fang Chen consoled it as his mind spun into action.


    <em>Its all good as long as it isnt a malevolent entity. </em>


    Secondster, Fang Chens eyes lit up. He took out the Moonsunk Gold Truncheons fragments from his storage ring and asked, Is this what you want?


    The sword embryo responded with its action. It enveloped the fragments with its fluid body, and bubbles began popping outward. It looked as if it was digesting the Moonsunk Gold Truncheon.


    Fifteen secondster, a massive bubble popped out from its body, as if it was burping.


    Fang Chen had been observing it meanwhile. He noticed that the sword embryos aura had gotten stronger after devouring the Moonsunk Gold Truncheon, and their connection appeared to have deepened as well.


    <em>So, is it an artifact that devours other artifacts? </em>


    Fang Chen was perplexed. He had no idea whether there were other such artifacts in the world of cultivation, but regardless, it was clear this sword embryo was no ordinary entity. <em>Does this mean that the sword embryo will get increasingly stronger if I feed it a steady supply of artifacts?</em>


    <em>Hungry, hungry</em> The sword embryo revolved around Fang Chen. Its message was much clearer this time around.


    Youre still hungry? The Moonsunk Gold Truncheon might just be fragments, but it still used to be a twelve daosoul imprint artifact Fang Chen mumbled.


    <em>Tr, ash</em>


    Fang Chen stared at the sword embryo before slowly speaking up, Youre still young. You shouldnt curse.


    <em>Hungry, hungry, very hungry!</em>


    Wait.


    Fang Chen took out all of the artifacts he had inside his storage ring. The bulk of them were from the South Heaven Sects cultivators. He had kept them, thinking that Xu Ge and the others might be able to use them if they became a cultivator, else he could also sell them for ki stones.


    <em>Forget it, feeding the childes first. </em>


    The sword embryo was excited. It took only thirty short seconds to devour all of the artifacts.


    Urp Its aura grew yet again.


    Fang Chen could sense that it was finally full.


    Youre full now, right? Are you able to transform into a flying sword? Fang Chen asked.


    The sword embryo suddenly dove into Fang Chens head.


    Perplexed, Fang Chen touched his forehead but there was nothing there. He then closed his eyes and tried to inspect within him, but he couldnt find any trace of the sword embryo.


    Where did it hide? Fang Chen was confused.


    <em>Did it go to sleep right after eating?</em>


    Meanwhile, a figure slowly opened his eyes and spoke with an ancient, resonant voice, Someone is assimting our Cataclysmic Sword Embryo. Quickly find that person and retrieve our sword embryo.


    Those words reverberated afar in an instant.


    Yes, Old Ancestor!


    Yes, Old Ancestor!


    Countless figures rushed out of the Empyrean Immortal Sword Sect on swords. All of them first bowed in the same direction before scattering in all directions. These were all highly respected figures in the world of cultivation, revered as sword immortals and sword emperors.


    Some of them had been in seclusion training for over a hundred years. Some of them had been sleeping for a thousand years.


    But all of them were suddenly making a move together.


    This rmed the other major sects in the world of cultivation, and they quickly sent scouts to figure out what was happening in the Empyrean Sword Immortal Sect.


    <em>Why did all these old monsters suddenlye out of seclusion together?</em>


    Those who were ignorant were baffled. Those who knew what was going on shook their heads and held their tongues.


    Young master, I have reached Ki Manifestation! Xu Ge excitedly paraded his inner ki in front of Fang Chen.


    He was able to make such a fast breakthrough thanks to the Bone Tempering Pill, as well as the many battles he had fought recently while being with Fang Chen. Zhao Yans asional pointer helped as well.


    Not bad. One more step, and youll reach Earth Profound realm. Ill impart the Purple Aura Form to you. You should practice that alongside your martial cultivation. Whether anythinges out of it or not depends on you, Fang Chen said.


    Thank you, young master! Xu Ge nodded in excitement.


    Zhao Yan looked at Xu Ge in envy. He might have his martial arts legacy, but he also looked forward to bing an immortal cultivator too.


    Do you wish to be an immortal cultivator too? Fang Chen asked Zhao Yan.


    I do. Zhao Yan nodded.


    Ill impart a cultivation method to you once you reach Heaven Profound realm, lest you get distracted at this point, Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    Zhao Yan was stunned before he broke out in a beaming smile. Thank you, young master. That day wont be too far away.


    Fang Chen knew that he wasnt boasting. He sensed that Zhao Yans aura had greatly strengthened over thest few days, a sign that he was close to reaching pinnacle Longevity Ki. Beyond that was Heaven Profound realm.


    Heaven Profound realm martial artists, even by the standards of grade-7 states, were not weaklings. Elder Cloudcrane had told him that a pinnacle Heaven Profound realm martial artist was on par with a twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator.


    Simrly, Liu Suifeng also revealed a look of fear when talking about Heaven Profound realm martial artists.


    From this, Fang Chen deduced that martial artists underwent a metamorphosis in this realm, and this metamorphosis might grant them the ability to cross blows with cultivators.


    As for what the metamorphosis was, he would have to wait till Zhao Yan made his breakthrough to know for sure.


    Young master Fang, Ji Lenghuangs respectful voice could be heard from the doorway.


    Fang Chen opened the door.


    Ji Lenghuang hurriedly bowed before reporting, Our Old Master says that he has prepared the necessary manpower, and he would like to ask when you wish to make a move.


    We can set off now, Fang Chen replied.


    He had made a breakthrough to eighth stage Ki Refinement, and he had plenty of Purple Lightning Talismans in his storage ring. It shouldnt be too tough for him to distract the stone fae and bat fae, not to mention that Ji Congyun would be lending a helping hand too.


    Ji Lenghuangs eyes lit up in delight. He quickly took his leave to report the matter.


    Soon, the Ji ns massive procession began marching toward the cavern.


    This hugemotion naturally caught Chillwaters emperors notice.


    Chillwaters emperor stood on the pce walls as he watched the procession leave the capital with a distressed frown.


    The Ji n has joined hands with Great Xias War God. They might have even opened up the hiddennd they have guarded for many years to him too. At this rate, it wont be long before the Ji n gains enough power to corner us. What should I do?


    An old eunuch standing behind the emperor pondered before replying, Your Majesty, now that the Old Ancestor has fallen, I fear that only the intervention of the White Tiger Empire can turn the tables around.

 Chapter 204: Time to Get to Work

    Chapter 204: Time to Get to Work


    White Tiger Empire Chillwaters emperor hesitated. Ji Congyun is close with them as well. They might not necessarily pay me any heed even if I personally make a request, since this is Chillwaters internal affair.


    Your Majesty, have you forgotten that the Fourth Princess is training at the White Tiger Empires Ten Directions Sect? Her Highness is also on close terms with Lin Li, the son of White Tiger Empires great general, the old eunuch said.


    The emperors eyes lit up. He would have forgotten about his daughters existence if not for the old eunuchs reminder.


    He had sent his daughter to White Tiger Empires number one martial arts sect, the Ten Directions Sect, at a very young age, and it had been twenty years since. She had only returned once in the meantime, and it was with Lin Li.


    Go and write a letter right now, and find the fastest way possible to deliver it to her hands! the emperor ordered. Make sure to keep this matter under wraps. The Ji n mustnt know about this.


    Please be assured, Your Majesty. Ill send an aide over, the old eunuch replied with a nod.


    Remember, you must ry to them that Fang Chen is a cultivator. It would be best if they could bring in a cultivator from their superior state to aid us, the emperor said.


    Yes, Your Majesty.


    The huge procession eventually arrived before the cavern.


    Ji Congyun had mobilized hundreds of Ji ns experts, including Ji Junhua. There were at least a hundred Earth Profound realm martial artists, whose cultivation ranged from Aureate Ki to Origin Ki, whereas the remaining three hundred were all at Ki Manifestation.


    Young master Fang, I have mobilized more than half of our experts for this. Our Ji n will be severely weakened if anything goes wrong here. Id like to know what we ought to do inside the cavern so that we can at least prepare ourselves Ji Congyun sped his fist and said.


    Ji Junhua and the others looked at Fang Chen as well.


    In truth, they had no idea what this operation was all about, but they had no choice but toe since it was Ji Congyun rallying them. Thus, they were curious to know what Fang Chen would say.


    This was a ce fraught with danger. Even Immortal Zuo was reluctant to visit it again aftering here once. The Ji n had deployed over half of their forces for this operation, so they wanted to make sure that everything went smoothly.


    There are only two faes you need to be careful of. One of them is the stone fae, and the other is the bat fae, Fang Chen exined. He nced at Ji Congyun before carrying on, You and I will tie down one fae each, and the rest will be a piece of cake. Make no mistake, there will be casualties, but it wont be as severe as before.


    I have to go in too? Ji Congyun shuddered. <em>Do I really have to go into that godforsaken ce again?</em>


    What do you think? Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    Ji Congyun clenched his fist. He turned to Zhao Yan and said, Will he being with us too? Hes a Longevity Ki martial artist too. Im certain hell be of great assistance inside.


    Well, we need someone to guard the entrance too, right? Thest thing you want is for someone to seal the entrance on us. We would be trapped in there for an entire year if so, Fang Chen said.


    Ji Congyun fell silent.


    Shush! Fang Chen suddenly raised his hand, a gesture for the crowd to quieten down.


    The crowd instinctively did as they were told, but they looked at Fang Chen with confused eyes.


    What they saw next baffled them.


    A little silver sword slowly emerged from Fang Chens forehead.


    It was an inexplicable sight for normal martial artists like them. Never had they ever seen anything like that before. It was beyond their imagination how a sword could hide in someones head, even if it was only thirty centimeters long.


    Fang Chen vaguely remembered Li Daoye telling him that nurturing an ego artifact could take from several years to decades yet this silver sword embryo took only a single day to morph into a flying sword?


    <em>That sword embryo is indeed extraordinary, though I have to say the sword is a little short</em>


    Suppressing his astonishment, Fang Chen remarked with a smile, I thought youre an idle bum who only eats and does nothing. It looks like I have misunderstood you.


    The little sword flew spiritedly in front of him. Even though it was only thirty centimeters long, Fang Chen could sense that its prowess surpassed that of the Moonsunk Gold Truncheon.


    <em>Logically speaking, this sword embryo should already have daosoul imprint on it, though I wasnt able to see anything. It could be that this daosoul imprint is far beyond my means to discern, </em>Fang Chen thought.


    Hungry, hungry the little sword cried.


    This voice could only be heard by Fang Chen, but it was not just a vague telepathic impression anymore. Fang Chen widened his eyes in astonishment. Youre able to speak now?


    Hungry, hungry, eat the little sword continued crying.


    <em>It has only gained sentience, so it can only utter simple words like a child, though a day mighte when it can converse with me like Victorious Buddha,</em> Fang Chen thought. He looked at the flying sword and said with a smile, ckers dont get to eat. Ill find some food for you if you properly do your jobter.


    Job, job The little sword flew into the sky before whizzing back to Fang Chens side.


    The crowd was dumbstruck.


    Ji Junhuas face turned pale. <em>With such a flying sword in his possession, wont he be able to remotely assassinate any of us, including Ji Congyun? How do we stop someone like that?!</em>


    Return for now.


    Fang Chen took the little sword back into his body entering the cavern together with Ji Congyun. The others followed them. Upon arriving at the other side, they stood in a neat formation as they awaited further orders.


    Young master Fang, what do we do next? Ji Congyun asked.


    The stone fae and bat fae should swiftly notice us given our huge group. Lets wait for them to make an appearance first, Fang Chen said with a smile.


    Ji Congyun nodded.


    Around fifteen minutester, the crowd felt the earth quake.


    A massive stone fae was sprinting in their direction, and each footstep of his left a huge pit on the ground.


    Shortly after, a ck shadow appeared in the sky. The bat fae had arrived too.


    Split into your respective groups and collect everything of value here. Well gather here ten days from now, Ji Congyun ordered.


    Yes, Old Master! Ji Junhua and the others immediately scattered in all directions.


    The stone fae and bat fae didnt chase the crowd. Their eyes were focused on Fang Chen and Ji Congyun, knowing that the two of them posed the greatest threat of all.


    Which one do you want to take? Fang Chen asked.


    Without any hesitation, Ji Congyun gathered his inner ki and unleashed a palm strike against the stone fae. It was a powerful blow, but it failed to even jolt the dust off thetter. However, it did seed in angering the stone fae, and it immediately went after Ji Congyun.


    In less than a minutes time, Ji Congyun and the stone fae had already disappeared from sight.


    All that was left was Fang Chen and the bat fae.


    You understand human speech? Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    The bat fae slowly pped its wings while ring at Fang Chen from the sky. Its eyes didnt carry the sentience that Victorious Buddha and the others possessed; all Fang Chen could sense was bloodthirst.


    They appear to have developed in a different direction from Victorious Buddha and the others; they dont seem too intelligent. Thats intriguing Fang Chen murmured.


    The bat fae and the stone fae were much stronger than Victorious Buddha and the others, but their intelligence was farcking. This could be due to their cultivation method or the intentional deed of Enlightenment Heaven Supreme.


    While Fang Chen was pondering upon this question, the bat fae noticed that his thoughts were wandering and took this chance to charge at him.


    The next instant, the little sword suddenly whizzed out. In a sh of silver light, it pierced a hole through the bat faes wings. Fresh blood sttered like a beautiful flower.


    That attack only consumed a small bit of my spirit ki. I guess this is the difference between an ordinary artifact and an ego artifact. Fang Chen was satisfied with the result.

 Chapter 205: A Fish Surmounting the Dragon’s Gate

    Chapter 205: A Fish Surmounting the Dragon¡¯s Gate


    Grar!


    It had been a long time since the bat faest sustained an injury. It shrieked in anger upon having its wing pierced by the little sword, releasing a terrifying sonic pulse.


    Pu!


    Fang Chen felt his innards jolt. He was protecting his body with his spirit ki, but the impact still made him spew blood.


    Just a single shriek from the bat fae was enough to injure him!


    The martial artists that were scattering all around halted their footsteps and looked over with looks of fear. That howl had been terrifying for them too. Despite being far away, they still felt their blood being jolted into disarray. Some of them even suffered injuries as a result!


    Continue, dont stop! Ji Junhua roared. Dont forget what our goal here is. Leave the rest to young master Fang and our Old Master!


    Yes, master!


    The bat fae screeched ceaselessly in hopes of pushing the little sword back via its sonic pulses, but each time it screeched, the little sword would pierce through its body once.


    Fang Chen continuously channeled his spirit ki to protect himself. Initially, each sonic pulse would cause a crack in his protectiveyer of spirit ki, but he quickly noticed that the bat faes sonic pulse was weakening over time.


    This meant that little swords attacks were working!


    Little sword, attack its vitals! Fang Chen ordered.


    Pu!


    Boom!


    The bat faes giant body fell heavily on the ground, creating a pit over ten meters deep. Its forehead had been punctured, and fresh blood and brain matter spurted out from the wound.


    The little sword remained pristine without the slightest blood on it. It happily surged over to Fang Chens side as if asking for a reward.


    Hungry, eat, hungry, eat


    This fae is not bad. You dont want to eat it? Fang Chen tried asking.


    Uweh Disgusting The little sword shook sidewards.


    You dont take organic food. Got it.


    Fang Chen shot a thumbs up, as the final sliver of his doubt vanished. This was an expensive child to raise, given how it only ate artifacts, but it wouldnt do for him to starve his own kid.


    Dont worry. Ill try to find some artifacts here for you to eat. If that doesnt work, Ill buy some for you in the market, Fang Chen consoled it.


    The little sword vibrated in satisfaction. The battle seemed to have exhausted it. It flew around for a while longer and probably felt bored, so it returned to Fang Chens body and dozed off.


    Meanwhile, Fang Chen scavenged the bat faes corpse. Momentster, he pulled out a blood-red bead from its head. It was around the size of a fingernail.


    Is this the faes inner core? Fang Chens interest was piqued, so he examined it.


    He noticed that the inner core released a peculiar pulsation whenever his spirit ki came into contact with it. After some fiddling, the inner core suddenly released a piercing screech.


    Boom!


    The pit further expanded as a result of the sonic pulse!


    The abilities of a fae are centered in its inner core, and it can be triggered via spirit ki This would make inner cores an ideal material for forging artifacts, right? Fang Chen widened his eyes in realization.


    The inner cores aura noticeably weakened after releasing the sonic pulse. It was likely that the inner cores energy could still be replenished while it was inside the faes body, but it turned into an expendable after it was torn away from it.


    The sonic pulse is strong enough to take down seventh or eighth stage Ki Refinement cultivators. I should be able to get a good price out of it, Fang Chen murmured.


    All of a sudden, he shook his head bitterly.


    All this while, he had never been concerned about ki stones and artifacts as he didnt have much need in that regard, but now that he had a little sword that preyed solely on artifacts, he needed to pay more heed in that direction.


    Days slowly passed.


    On the fifth day, Fang Chen stumbled upon an unkempt Ji Congyun. The stone fae was relentlessly chasing after him.


    Wait a moment, why is he so rxed?!


    Ji Congyun saw Fang Chen seated on the ground, leisurely brewing tea with a proper tea set. His face immediately darkened.


    <em>Wheres the bat fae? Shouldnt Fang Chen be in worse shape than me?</em>


    Fang Chen poured two cups of steaming tea before beckoning Ji Congyun over. Elder Ji,e here and have a cup of tea.


    Ji Congyun flitted up to Fang Chen with a conflicted expression. He turned around to look at the stone fae, only to see thetter halting a distance away, reluctant to approach as if it had sensed danger.


    This Ji Congyun was baffled.


    There was only one exnation for this situationFang Chen was much stronger than he had expected. To think that even the faes feared him!


    He still remembered how Immortal Zuo had been put in a difficult spot when he entered this ce back then, such that he dared not enter it a second time. <em>It looks like there can be a huge gap even among immortals. </em>


    The stone fae spent several seconds staring deeply at Fang Chen before taking its leave.


    Ji Congyuns lips quivered. It took a few moments before he bitterly remarked, I see that even the faes here fear young master Fang.


    Try my tea. Fang Chen pushed the teacup over.


    Ji Congyun sat down and downed the tea. He didnt hesitate despite the tea being steaming hot. He drank several cups consecutively before finally exhaling deeply.


    Elder Ji, theres something Id like to discuss with you, Fang Chen said.


    Speak your mind, young master Fang, Ji Congyun replied.


    Why dont your Ji n switch over to serving our Great Xias imperial family? Fang Chen smiled. Your Chillwaters imperial family iscking, be it their potential or foundation.


    Ji Congyun maintained an impassive face, but a storm was brewing in his heart. <em>Is Fang Chen coveting our Chillwater? </em>


    Sweat dripped from his forehead. He secretly eyed Fang Chen in his peripheral vision, but thetter seemed more focused on brewing his tea.


    It was momentster before Ji Congyun finally replied, Young master Fang, Chillwater has a long history behind it. The Ji n might have its conflicts with the imperial family, but those are still internal matters. It would be a different story if Great Xia joins the picture. It would spell the end of Chillwater. I dont think our popce can ept that.


    Isnt it up to Ji n to decide what the popce thinks? Fang Chen chuckled. Chillwater will be a vassal to our Great Xia in name, but itll be under your Ji ns rule. Our Great Xia wont interfere in your internal affairs. All you need to do is pay us annual tribute.


    Young master Fang, what if I refuse? Ji Congyunsplexion didnt look too good.


    Elder Ji, you have lived for a long time. Your eyes might have turned turbid, but your heart is clearer than ever. Perhaps, in the near future, your Ji n might be blessed with cultivators, Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    Boom!


    Those words raised tsunamis in Ji Congyuns heart. Irrepressible greed shed across his eyes.


    Young master Fang, will you bestow our Ji nsmen with a fortuitous encounter if I ept your request? Ji Congyun tried his best to maintain hisposure, but his voice wouldnt stop quivering.


    Chillwater meant nothing at allpared to a chance to pursue immortality. If Ji n could nurture a few cultivators, they could transcend the limitations of a grade-8 state and perhaps even tower above grade-7 states too.


    It was an opportunity to rise to greatness! He had to carefully think things through.


    Fang Chen nodded with a smile. As long as you agree, Ill choose a few decent ones from your younger nsmen and impart them with a cultivation method.


    I fear my agreement wont be enough. Chillwater is backed by the grade-7 White Tiger Empire. They wont allow such a thing to happen, Ji Congyun replied.


    Fang Chen smiled. Ji Congyun had started thinking on Great Xias behalf.

 Chapter 206: White Tiger Empire

    Chapter 206: White Tiger Empire


    Tell me about the White Tiger Empire, Fang Chen said.


    Ji Congyun gathered his thoughts before replying, The White Tiger Empire is located 4000 kilometers east of Chillwater. Since the founding of our Chillwater a thousand years ago, we have been under the jurisdiction of the White Tiger Empire. Heavenroc, Vastsea, and Redsky are the White Tiger Empires vassal states too, though its vassal states arent just limited to us.


    The White Tiger Empire has a prevalent martial arts culture. Earth Profound realm martial artists are aplenty in their country, and theres a sizable number of Heaven Profound realm martial artists too. Their strongest sect is the Ten Directions Sect, and its rumored that they have three pinnacle Heaven Profound realm martial artists.


    At this point, Ji Congyun looked at Fang Chen and saw that thetter was still calm, so he carried on, Theres also a rumor that grade-7 states are much closer to their superior states than in our case. I heard that itsmonce for grade-6 states to recruit Heaven Profound realm martial artists from grade-7 states. These martial artists serve as the immortals followers. This means that the Ten Directions Sect is backed by immortal sects.


    Thats why Ji Congyun paused for a brief moment before saying, The White Tiger Empire wont intervene no matter how Chillwaters politics shift; they dont care whether its our Ji n in charge or the current imperial family. However, if an outsider threatens their interests, they will make a move, and they could potentially rally the help of the immortals they have ties with too.


    Fang Chen nodded contemtively.


    The White Tiger Empire was indeed as powerful as he had heard. Even Great Xia was once indirectly their vassal state, back when it was still paying tribute to Chillwater.


    Lets take a step back for now, Fang Chen said. Youll im the throne but maintain the status quo in Chillwater for now. Compile your martial arts legacies and send it over to Great Xia. In exchange, I promise that some of your Ji nsmen will be cultivators in the near future.


    Ji Congyuns eyes lit up. He was nning to im the throne in the first ce. The death of the imperial familys Old Ancestor had created the perfect opening for him to do so, after all!


    Furthermore, he thought that trading martial arts manuals for an opportunity for his nsmen to be cultivators was a highly beneficial deal to the Ji n.


    I suggest you keep this matter under wraps for now. There might be people who don''t want to see your Ji n attaining such power, Fang Chen said.


    Ji Congyun narrowed his eyes. I understand. Ill do as you say. As soon as I im the throne, Ill issue an order to organize all of Chillwaters martial arts legacies. Ill make sure to keep this deal under wraps.


    Fang Chen nodded with a smile as he turned his attention back to brewing his tea.


    <em>Wait. </em>Ji Congyun suddenly realized something after seeing Fang Chens smile, and that made him frown in astonishment. A secondter, he asked in resignation, Young master Fang, you never intended to have Great Xia annex Chillwater at all, right?


    What makes you say that? Fang Chen smiled.


    Ji Congyun stared at Fang Chen with deep eyes. <em>This fellow might be young, but it feels like hell pull one over me as soon as I drop my guard. </em>


    Great Xia has nothing to earn from annexing Chillwater. Our countries are far from each other, making it impractical to govern them together. Besides, itll only be a title difference once I take the throne; the trouble that arises from annexing Chillwater isnt worth a superficial title, and you arent someone who will bother with such a facade.


    From the start, your goal has been Chillwaters martial arts legacies. Thats the thing that truly benefits Great Xia. At this point, Ji Congyun couldnt help but smirk. Young master Fang might be an immortal, but there are things that an immortal cant do. The only way you canpile Chillwaters martial arts manuals is for our Ji n to take the throne.


    Fang Chen chuckled. He pushed another cup of tea to Ji Congyun and said, Have more tea.


    Ji Congyun picked up the teacup and drank it.


    It was as if the two of them hade to an implicit agreement to stop the conversation here.


    Ten days passed in a sh.


    Hundreds of Ji ns martial artists finally returned from all directions. Practically all of them had incurred injuries of some kind, and there were some missing individuals too.


    Ji Congyun took a sweeping gaze to estimate the losses they had incurred from this operation. He breathed a sigh of relief. <em>The casualties are less than a tenth. This is still eptable. </em>


    The casualty rates of their previous expeditions here to find ki stones for Immortal Zuo hovered between 60% to 70%. Sometimes, it might even go as high as 90%.


    Lay out everything you have collected, Fang Chen instructed.


    Ji Junhua and the others nced at Ji Congyun. Thetter berated them, Didnt you hear young master Fangs words? Lay out everything you have collected! Anyone who dares to keep anything for themselves will be harshly punished!


    Yes, Old Master!


    The crowd hurriedlyid out everything they had risked their lives to collect before Fang Chen. Not everyone had managed to collect something, and some of the items required them to work together to obtain.


    Most of the items were flowers and herbs, and unlike the Scarlet Fruits and the Blood Ginseng, they didnt harness much spirit ki. Even so, they were still decent nourishment for martial artists.


    Other than that, they also acquired around 10 low-grade ki stones. These were probably left behind by the cultivators who had previously entered this ce and died here.


    Fang Chen was mildly disappointed. <em>Looks like Enlightenment Heaven Supreme didnt leave much here. </em>Just as he was about to speak up, he saw in his peripheral vision a pile of ore that emitted a faint cold gleam.


    Suddenly, the little sword flew out and devoured the pile of ore. It let out a satisfied burp before returning into Fang Chens body.


    Ji Congyun and the others stared at the sight in bewilderment, though they dared not say anything.


    <em>That should be a pile of spirit ore for forging artifacts. It looks like my little sword doesnt necessarily have to eat artifacts; it can feed on spirit materials too, </em>Fang Chen deduced.


    He first split the items into ten portions before taking nine portions. You can keep the rest. Those ki stones are valuable, so keep them well.


    Ji Congyun thought Fang Chen would take all of the ki stones, since Immortal Zuo had disyed a huge fixation toward them back then. He didnt expect Fang Chen to keep his promise and properly split a tenth to them.


    Thank you, young master Fang. Ji Congyun carefully stowed away the items, especially the ki stone. <em>Our descendants will require the ki stones if they ever step on the path of immortality. </em>


    Young master, are we staying in Chillwater? Xu Ge secretly asked on their way back.


    I made a deal with the Ji n. Well return to Great Xia after hepiles Chillwaters martial arts legacies for us, Fang Chen replied.


    Xu Ge and Zhao Yans eyes lit up. <em>Great Xia will rise to a greater height if it obtains Chillwaters martial arts legacies. That willy the foundation for it to be a true grade-8 state!</em>


    Shortly after Fang Chens group entered Chillwaters capital, they encountered an old eunuch.


    Eunuch Lin, are you waiting here for me? Ji Congyun asked.


    Eunuch Lin eyed Fang Chen and the others before replying with a smile, His Majesty will be holding a banquet tonight. Well be having esteemed guests over, so please be present.


    <em>Esteemed guests? For such words to be mentioned before me and Fang Chen, it could only mean </em>


    Someone from the White Tiger Empire is here? Ji Congyun asked.


    Eunuch Lin simply smiled. Please dont bete.


    With that, he took his leave.

 Chapter 207: Heaven Profound Realm, First Stage Slaying Ki

    Chapter 207: Heaven Profound Realm, First Stage ying Ki


    Four youths wandered around the imperial pces garden, with a huge entourage following them. Those in the entourage were all offspring of the imperial family, but they were reduced to mere apaniment for the four youths.


    These four youths were of exceptional standing.


    One was Chillwaters Fourth Princess Han Qin, who had been training in the White Tiger Empires Ten Directions Sect for many years.


    One of them was the son of the White Tiger Empires great general, Lin Li.


    The remaining two youths were even more formidablethey were likely to have been born in a grade-6 state, possessing unfathomable strength!


    Senior Brother Zhou, Senior Sister Wang, thank you for making this trip with us, Lin Li said with a respectful attitude.


    Han Qin also quickly ryed her gratitude with an equally respectful attitude.


    Senior Brother Zhou tilted his chin upward as he impassively replied, I dont usually get involved in such trivialities, but since youre my follower, I guess I can at least drop by Chillwater to subdue a rogue cultivator.


    Senior Sister Wang smiled at Han Qin and said, Han Qin, you wont be returning here for many years after this. Take this chance to tie up loose ends well; I dont want to hear anyints after this.


    I will, Senior Sister Wang, Han Qin replied respectfully.


    She and Lin Li were lucky to be selected as Senior Brother Zhou and Senior Sister Wangs followers, and they would be following them to a grade-6 state soon. She was d to be able to resolve some of the problems in Chillwater before leaving.


    Why is my big brother not here? Han Qin wondered as she looked at the imperial nsmen following them.


    She had been away from home for too long that she wasnt familiar with them. She only remembered her big brother, who doted a lot on her back when she was younger.


    You are Lil Seven, right? Han Qin pointed out one of the youths.


    Startled, the youth rushed forward and politely answered, Fourth Sister.


    Wheres big brother? He rushed to meet me thest time I returned, Han Qin replied.


    The youth was taken aback, looking as if he wasnt sure how he should answer the question.


    Han Qin sensed that something was amiss and pressed on, Get to the point. Dont hide anything from me.


    Fourth Sister, did our father not tell you? the youth replied with a bitter smile. Our big brother died at the hands of Great Xias Fang Chen not too long ago


    What?! Han Qin was horrified. A secondter, she snapped out of her daze and asked with a sharper edge to her tone, Say that again!


    Our big brother has died at the hands of Great Xias Fang Chen The youth was terrified.


    The others werent faring any better. They knew that their Fourth Sister was a monster who had been training at the Ten Directions Sect from a young age, and it was rumored that her strength had already surpassed Earth Profound realm.


    Senior Brother Zhou and Senior Sister Wang traded looks, but they didnt think much about it.


    Lin Li frowned. He turned to the youth and asked, Who is Great Xias Fang Chen?


    The youth hurriedly replied, Its Great Xias War God Fang. Great Xia fought with Greenpine at the Three Realms Mountain a few years back and suffered great casualties. He med our Chillwater for not lending a helping hand, so he killed our big brother to vent his anger.


    Fang Chen! Han Qin roared with murderous intent.


    Great Xia is? Lin Li was confused.


    The youth quickly exined Great Xias background. Lin Li widened his eyes in realization.


    Senior Brother Zhou, Great Xia is one of the grade-9 states under our White Tiger Empire. They are Chillwaters vassal state, but they dared collude with an unaffiliated cultivator to try to overthrow Chillwater, Lin Li summarized the situation to Senior Brother Zhou.


    Leave the cultivator to me and your Senior Sister Wang. We wont interfere with anything else, Senior Brother Zhou replied.


    Understood. Lin Li nodded. He turned to Han QIn and consoled her, Dont worry, Qiner. Well tear that Fang Chen to shreds to avenge your big brother.


    Han Qin quietly nodded.


    You cant expect anything from an unaffiliated cultivator. How ignorant he must be to wilfully interfere in secr affairs? Anyone with a proper heritage would know better than to incur too much karma, lest they sumb to the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions, Senior Sister Wang sneered.


    Lets hope he at least has some ki stones, so that we dont make a wasted trip, Senior Brother Zhou replied.


    That was the main reason they had decided to make this trip. Cultivators with background were not to be trifled with, but unaffiliated cultivators were easy targets.


    Just then, Chillwaters emperor walked over with an exhausted look.


    The crowd quickly bowed to him. Your Majesty.


    Cultivators like Senior Brother Zhou and Senior Sister Wang naturally wouldnt bow to a mortal emperor, and Lin Li also stood still as well.


    Father, why didnt you tell me that my big brother got killed? Han Qin rushed forward and questioned. Tears finally streamed down her eyes.


    Chillwaters emperor sighed. I wanted to tell you in person because I knew you would be shaken up by the news.


    Father, where''s Fang Chen? Ill ughter him right now to avenge my big brother! Han Qin angrily roared.


    Chillwaters emperor hesitated for a few seconds before quietly replying, Fang Chen might have be an immortal.


    <em>Hm? </em>Lin Li was taken aback. <em>The immortal mentioned in the letter was born in Great Xia? </em>


    His face darkened. Even he, the son of the White Tiger Empires great general, hadnt been qualified to step on the path of an immortal, yet an immortal emerged from a lowly grade-9 state?


    Senior Brother Zhou was shocked. Youre saying an immortal came from your vassal state?


    Your Majesty, this is Senior Brother Zhou. Hes an immortal from a grade-6 state, Han Qin introduced.


    Chillwaters imperial family revealed even more respectful looks. <em>They really are immortals!</em>


    Chillwaters emperor bowed deeply and greeted Senior Brother Zhou, Lord Immortal.


    Theres no need to stand on ceremony. Senior Brother Zhou shook his hand.


    Lord Immortal, Fang Chen is indeed born from Great Xia, and based on what I have observed, theres a good chance that hes an immortal, Chillwaters emperor respectfully reported.


    He probably stumbled onto our path by sheer luck. Theres no need to worry about him, Senior Sister Wang replied with a smile.


    Senior Brother Zhou nodded in agreement. Its normal for Longevity Ki martial artists to not be a match for cultivators, since your inner ki is incapable of breaching spirit ki. However, things are different once you reach Heaven Profound realm.


    Han Qin and Lin Li have reached Heaven Profound Realms first stage ying Ki. Martial artists of their caliber are capable of dealing with spirit ki. The Fang Chen you spoke about is unlikely to be too strong, so the two of them should be enough to deal with him. Are there other unaffiliated cultivators with him?


    Fourth Sister is really a Heaven Profound realm martial artist?


    The younger imperial nsmen looked at Han Qin with eyes of admiration. Not even their Chillwaters Old Ancestor had been able to reach that level!


    <em>Two Heaven Profound realm martial artists and two grade-6 states immortals! The Ji n has made the worst choice to side with Fang Chen!</em> The imperial nsmen revealed excited looks.


    There were a few more people, but they appeared to have left. Fang Chen is the only one left. He just returned to the capital with Ji Congyun. I have already issued an order for them to attend tonights banquet, Chillwaters emperor replied with a hushed tone.


    Very well. Lets see what hes capable of during the banquet. Senior Brother Zhou, Hand Qin and Lin Li sneered.


    <strong>Starves additional trantion note:</strong>


    To rify, martial artists call cultivators immortals out of ack of understanding.


    They dont understand the limitations of cultivators wellthey see cultivators as beings from another world, capable of pulling off the impossible, so they use the word immortal loosely. Even Ki Refinement cultivators are like immortals to them.


    (Needless to say, the cultivators wouldnt exin their own limitations to martial artists either.)


    Cultivators, on the other hand, have a more fixed definition of immortal. For them, its about reaching the very end of cultivation and enjoying a carefree life with an endless lifespan. For them, an immortal is someone who has transcended Ascendant realm.

 Chapter 208: The Banquet

    <h4>Chapter 208: The Banquet</h4>


    Everyone in the Ji family looked solemn and grim. Fang Chen and his group were the only ones with rtively emotionless faces.


    ncing at Fang Chen and Ji Congyun, Ji Junhua muttered, "Father, this is clearly a Hongmen Banquet."


    The younger generation of the Ji family including Ji Lengxing remained quiet. They simply had no authority to speak.


    Those with the same level of seniority as Ji Junhua exchanged worried nces.


    Ji Congyun looked at Fang Chen. "What do you think, Lord Fang?"


    "We''ll naturally know when the banquet starts," replied Fang Chen with a smile.


    <i>We¡¯ll know when the banquet starts...?</i>


    While everyone was bewildered and worried, Fang Chen¡¯s oddly calmposure influenced them slightly, lifting the heaviness in their hearts.


    Just then, a Ji family servant hurriedly entered.


    He politely reported, "News from the imperial pce! Han Qin, the fourth princess, has returned along with Lin Li, the son of the Grand General of the White Tiger Empire, and two Immortal Masters from the sixth-tier empire!"


    Everyone was taken aback, and chills ran down their spines. To think that the emperor had the means to invite such formidable people over!


    Ji Congyun suddenly felt emotional. This was why the Ji family couldn''t truly control the Frost Water Empire. If Fang Chen wasn¡¯t here, they would¡¯ve had no chance to secure their position as the second power in the nation.


    After the servant retreated, Ji Congyun turned his attention back to Fang Chen again and worriedly said, "Lord Fang, now that the White Tiger Empire has invited Immortal masters from a sixth-tier empire, I am afraid that the matter we¡¯ve discussed would be.... ¡°


    "Just do your part, and I''ll take care of the rest," said Fang Chen with a faint smile. "Immortal Masters also vary in strength. How many of those Immortal Masters have died till now?"


    Everyone shuddered, and their expressions turned strange. Only Fang Chen could speak so lightly about the life and death of an Immortal Master.


    Soon after, Fang Chen and Ji Congyun left together toward the imperial pce. On their way there, they ran into Song Yi. Judging from his pale and exhausted appearance, he must have knelt at the Frost Empire Port for at least a month.


    Upon seeing them, Song Yi immediately lowered his head.


    Once the two men brushed past Song Yi, a shocked expression appeared on his face.


    Then he suddenly felt a pat on his shoulder. Ji Lengxing had appeared beside him.


    Ji Lengxing said, "Brother Song, now that the Ji family has formed an alliance with Lord Fang, let¡¯s not dwell on the past."


    "I understood," Song Yi replied as he nodded repeatedly, seeming a little absent-minded.


    However, in the next moment, he snapped out of it.


    Confused, he asked, ¡°Alliance? What do you mean?¡±


    Ji Lengxing merely smiled. There was a hint of anticipation in his eyes, "Don''t ask. Perhaps, not long from now, you will find out."


    ***


    When Fang Chen and Ji Congyun arrived at the imperial pce, they saw many luxurious carriages parked outside. Clearly, many court officials and various distinguished figures from the Frost Water Empire had been invited to the banquet.


    Fang Chen and Ji Congyun¡¯s arrival attracted the attention of the distinguished guests nearby, but those guests seemed to have realized something, as they did note forward to wee the two men. Only the officials from the Ji family dared to pay their respects. However, their faces were solemn and hesitant, as if there were many things they wished to say.


    Ji Congyun merely smiled and continued chatting with Fang Chen as they walked. Under the escort of the crowd, they entered the imperial pce.


    Inside the vast pce hall, the guests sessively took their seats. There were two hundred seats on each side. The four hundred filled seats instantly livened up the atmosphere in the pce.


    Fang Chen took his seat, beside Ji Congyun. Across from him, sat a group of young people who were staring at him with unfriendly gazes.


    Seeing them, Fang Chen casually remarked, "Are these the children of the imperial family?"


    Ji Congyun briefly nced over and nodded.


    Besides the group of young people, there were ministers seated in the pce hall. They were also secretly assessing and observing Fang Chen, with their gazes asionally showing that they were in deep thought. Their eyes only left Fang Chen when the emperor of the Frost Water Empire appeared.


    As the emperor took his seat, his lips spread into a wide smile.


    He said warmly, "Esteemed ministers, there is no need for excessive formalities today. Consider today a simple feast. I want you all to feel at home here."


    Ji Congyun nced at the four empty seats beside the emperor and asked, "Your Majesty, where are the distinguished guests Eunuch Lin mentioned?"


    The hall fell silent.


    The emperor looked at the vacant seats and chuckled. "Old Ji, there''s no need to worry. My daughter will be here shortly with the guests."


    "So it¡¯s true that the fourth princess has returned, Your Majesty?" asked a curious minister.


    The crowd exchanged nces. They had heard some rumors about that, but they were uncertain if it was true. If Han Qin had really returned, then this feast might have a hidden agenda.


    From a young age, Han Qin had been sent to the Ten Direction Sect in White Tiger Empire to practice martial arts. She was a supreme genius; the Ten Direction Sect would not have chosen her otherwise. In addition, there were rumors that she had already surpassed the previous imperial ancestors by advancing into the Heaven Profound Realm!


    The emperor nodded slightly. "Yes, my daughter had learned about the recent unrest in the Frost Water Empire, so she decided to return home for a while before leaving for the sixth-tier empire,"


    Both the officials of the Ji family and those of the imperial lineage could not contain their astonishment at the news that Fourth Princess Han Qin was nning to go to the sixth-tier empire.


    "My daughter is exceptionally talented and has been chosen by the Immortal Masters of the sixth-tier empire to serve by their side. She will cultivate within the Immortal Masters¡¯ sect in the future,¡± announced the emperor. ¡°As you all know, Immortal Masters may go into seclusion for many years, it may go for as long as twenty years. So, I¡¯m afraid she may not be able to frequentlye back home from now on.¡±


    The silent atmosphere gradually became lively. The more loyal ministers turned extremely excited, thrilled even, and they nced toward Fang Chen and Ji Congyun from time to time.


    Though Ji Congyun remainedposed, he could not hide the shock in his eyes. <i>An immortal master chose the fourth princess to serve them...?</i>


    "By the way, Lin Li, the son of the Grand General of the White Tiger Empire, and two immortal masters from the sixth-tier empire have also arrived. These two immortal masters are of esteemed bloodlines, so take care not to offend them," added the emperor.


    As he spoke, his gaze fell on Fang Chen and Ji Congyun.


    The emperor grinned. "Don¡¯t you think that our two guests are truly distinguished?"


    Ji Congyun nodded. ¡°Of course they are."


    Fang Chen smiled but remained silent. However, in the eyes of the onlookers, Fang Chen seemed cautious. The princes and princesses watched on with eager expressions as they awaited what wasing next.


    While the crowd was busy discussing, four figures had already appeared outside the door.


    At the forefront stood Brother Zhou and Sister Wang, with Han Qin and Lin Li following closely behind. The discussions immediately ceased, and everyone shifted their gazes toward them. Subconsciously, everyone stood up.


    Ji Congyun initially intended to rise as well. However, upon seeing that Fang Chen remained calmly seated, Ji Congyun forcefully repressed the uneasiness within him and remained seated too.


    Everyone rose to greet the neers while Fang Chen and Ji Congyun remained seated. This created a stark contrast.


    Brother Zhou and Sister Wang nced at Fang Chen with amusement. On the other hand, Han Qin red at Fang Chen hatefully, eyes filled with killing intent.


    Lin Li squinted. He had wanted to see which insect from a ninth-tier empire had been able to gain a bit of immortal fate and be a cultivator!

 Chapter 209: You Said It

    Chapter 209: You Said It


    Lord Immortals, this way please.


    Chillwaters emperor was being exceptionally respectful, but none of the officials thought that he was being too subservient. They thought that immortals rightfully deserved such treatment.


    Senior Brother Zhou and Senior Sister Wang chuckled as they settled into their seats together with Han Qin and Lin Li.


    Delicacies were soon served, and dance artisans began their performance.


    The atmosphere slowly lightened up, but Han Qin continued ring at Fang Chen with unblinking eyes.


    Youre Fang Chen? she suddenly asked.


    The atmosphere plunged into silence. Everyone turned to look at Fang Chen and Han Qin, knowing what was going to happen next could dictate their Chillwaters future.


    You are? Fang Chen smiled.


    Immortal Fang, shes our Chillwaters Fourth Princess, Ji Congyun replied.


    He had made sure to emphasize the word immortal in his words, thinking that this would humble their enemies, but Senior Brother Zhou and Senior Sister Wang only looked at him with unflinching smiles.


    Ji Congyun eyes skipped a beat. He was familiar with that smile. <em>Only someone whos certain everything is in their grasp will reveal such a smile! </em>


    Ah, so its Chillwaters Fourth Princess. Youve reached Heaven Profound realm despite your young age. Not bad, Fang Chen calmly remarked.


    Han Qin made no attempt to conceal her killing intent. She red at Fang Chen with frigid eyes as she said, I have been close with my big brother from a young age, and he has always doted on me too. We might not be from the same mother, but were closer than blood kin.


    Your big brother? Ah, Chillwaters crown prince? Fang Chen asked with a light chuckle.


    Fang Chens light-hearted attitude made Han Qins anger erupt like a volcano. Unable to control her emotions anymore, her severing ki flowed out and enveloped her body.


    Is this the prowess of Heaven Profound realm? The martial artists in the room trembled.


    Severing ki was clearly much stronger than longevity ki. The martial artists felt immense stress even though Han Qin hadnt made a move yet. Even Ji Congyun was startled. He gauged that he wouldnt evenst ten blows against Han Qin.


    Men! Han Qin suddenly bellowed.


    Four eunuchs solemnly carried a coffin into the room.


    The officials were startled to see that. This was the very pce where they held imperial assemblies to discuss national affairs. It was a room with a long history, and it was rightfully bound by many traditions too.


    Yet, Han Qin had someone carry a coffin into such a solemn room?


    The officials turned to Chillwaters emperor, only to see thetters impassive face. This told them that Han Qin had the emperors permission to do this.


    Bam.


    The coffin was slowly lowered on the ground. The four eunuchs respectfully bowed to the coffin before retreating to the side.


    Han Qin walked up to the coffin and gently lifted its lid. Tears streamed from her eyes and fell into the coffin.


    Inside the coffin was a pale corpse with clear stitches on its neck. It was Chillwaters crown prince, who had died many days ago.


    Han Qin wiped away her tears before looking at Fang Chen. Her reddened eyes were zing with an unquenchable desire for vengeance. Kneel down, and kowtow to my big brother nine times!


    Fang Chen, do as Qiner says. Chillwaters emperor sighed. My son is worth your nine kowtows.


    Kowtow!


    Kowtow!


    The imperial offspring chanted in anger. Some of the officials joined in as well.


    They understood that the tides had turned. Chillwater now had the power to suppress Great Xias War God!


    Your Majesty, you ought to tread carefully, Ji Congyun said with an awfulplexion.


    Ji Congyun, you old scoundrel! Chillwater blood flows in your veins! How could you collude with an outsider to deal with our own people?


    Old scoundrel, you should kowtow too!


    Indeed! You were the one who brought Fang Chen to this hall. You were the one who instigated Fang Chen to kill the crown prince!


    The Ji n has long harbored traitorous thoughts. We ought to massacre the Ji n!


    The imperial offspring and the officials directed their aggression toward Ji Congyun, hurling insults and threats.


    Many of those from the Ji Faction turned pale, as beads of sweat trickled down their foreheads. They sensed that their lives were on the line today. A single misstep here could spell the end of their Ji n!


    Ji Congyun sighed. He had expected Chillwaters emperor to use this opportunity to not just deal with Fang Chen but the Ji n too. That was what further pushed him toward Fang Chens side.


    <em>And whether this was the right call or not</em> Ji Congyun quietly looked at Fang Chen.


    Kowtow! Han Qins voice boomed deafeningly in the room.


    Are the two of you that close that youre willing to die for him? Fang Chen asked. Hisposed voice formed a stark contrast to Han Qins furious words.


    Kowtow, and Ill let you die a dignified death. Otherwise, Ill slowly rip out your flesh over ten days and send our Chillwater soldiers to massacre everyone in your Great Xia! Han Qin spat coldly.


    Are you two here to back her? A mere martial artist cant hope to hurt me, Fang Chen asked the two cultivators.


    You shouldnt underestimate Heaven Profound realm martial artists. Many unaffiliated cultivators have died to them, Senior Brother Zhou replied with a chuckle. Be my guest if you wish to make a move.


    Very well. Fang Chen nodded.


    There was a cold sh of light.


    Han Qins body abruptly stiffened up, then her body topplied into the coffin. Pinkish-white fluid flowed from an incision in her forehead.


    What?!


    The crowd gasped in horror. They couldnt believe what they had just seen.


    <em>A Heaven Profound realm martial artist died just like this?! </em>


    Chillwaters emperor, who thought that victory was in his grasp, turned ghastly pale. He stared at Han Qins corpse with incredulous eyes.


    Qiner?! Lin Li shot to his feet and eximed. It took a moment before it sunk in that Han Qin was dead, and tears streamed from his eyes. Amid heavy breaths, he red at Fang Chen with eyes filled with rage and sorrow. Y-you Ill kill you!!!


    Lin Li charged at Fang Chen in anger, only for Senior Brother Zhou to pull him back.


    You arent a match for him. Hes not that simple, Senior Brother Zhou said. He turned to Fang Chen and asked, What sect are you from?


    Im an unaffiliated cultivator. I dont have any sect. Fang Chen smiled.


    Youre really an unaffiliated cultivator? Senior Brother Zhou frowned, unsure whether Fang Chen was speaking the truth or not.


    Senior Sister Wang nced at Han Qins corpse before looking at Fang Chen with cold eyes. Shes the follower I chose. You owe me an exnation for killing my follower.


    Two ck-armored zombies overflowing with corpse ki suddenly appeared behind her. They stood with their heads lowered, and they had iparably sharp ck nails that gleamed with a cold light. They gave off an awful stench that could only be smelled from those who had died for some time.


    This sight shocked everyone.


    Lets not implicate the innocent. Come out with me, Senior Sister Wang said as she headed out of the pce.


    The two corpses staggered behind her. Each step they took produced a sound reminiscent of a rock nging against metal.

 Chapter 210: Trump Card

    Chapter 210: Trump Card


    The crowd looked at the corpses in fear.


    Even a Longevity Ki martial artist like Ji Congyun felt utterly helpless against those two corpses. Such was the huge difference in their strength!


    Such overwhelming corpse ki. Zombies? Fang Chen narrowed his eyes.


    Is it your first time seeing a zombie? Senior Brother Zhou asked as he stood up. Such stuff isntmon, after all. Our Blood Corpse Sect is one of the few sects that specializes in using zombies offensively. Youre lucky. My junior sister is the most outstanding zombie creator in our generation. Those two are high-grade zombies.


    He licked his lips before continuing on, Theres no better nourishment for zombies than a cultivators blood essence. Now that my junior sister is angry, there can only be one survivor between the two of you.


    Heughed heartily as he walked out of the room with Lin Li too.


    Blood Corpse Sect? Fang Chen was intrigued.


    It sounded like the typical name of a demonic cult, simr to that of the Blood Spirit Cult, but the other party openly spoke about it as if there was nothing wrong with it. That perplexed him.


    This was not his first time seeing a zombiethe Blood Spirit Cults Foundation Establishment cultivator he had fought a while back had turned himself into a zombie, and it took them a lot of effort to take him down.


    However, these two corpses appeared tock sentience, unlike the Blood Spirit Cultist.


    <em>Blood Spirit Cult, Blood Corpse Sect Is there some kind of tie between those two sects?</em>


    Young master Fang Ji Congyun looked at Fang Chen with a severe expression.


    Fang Chen smiled at him before heading out of the room too.


    Ji Congyun was consoled by his perfectlyposed demeanor. He could tell that it wasnt just an act.


    Chillwaters emperor and the others followed them too, though they stopped at the entrance. There were different expressions on their facessome looked grim, whereas others looked excited.


    Senior Sister Wang eyed Fang Chen. She raised her hand, and one of the zombies suddenly pounced on him like a ferocious beast without any warning.


    Fang Chen didnt bring out his flying sword right away. It was rare for him to stumble on something like this, so he was curious to know if there was anything special about the zombie.


    As the zombie approached him, he gathered his spirit ki to form a barrier.


    Senior Brother Zhou burst intoughter upon seeing that. The zombie has iparably sharp ws. It can easily slice through spirit ki unless the cultivator is far stronger than it.


    The eyes of Chillwaters emperor and the imperial offspring lit up upon hearing that.


    Indeed, Fang Chens spirit ki barrier was shredded by the zombies w like a b of tofu. An awful stench assaulted his nose, making him scrunch his nose in disdain.


    He quickly retreated to put some distance between him and the zombie, while hurling out a fireball.


    A fireball fueled by spirit ki was far stronger than mortal mes. It could even instantaneously reduce a human to cinders.


    Heh! Senior Brother Zhou scoffed. He doesnt have the strength to rival the zombie. High-grade zombies are nigh indestructible; normal spells cant hope to hurt them.


    Boom!


    The fireball was smashed right into the zombie, but thetter was unfazed as if it was immune to the fire element. It shrugged it off and continued charging at Fang Chen.


    While they were fighting, the corpse ki emanated by the zombie spread to the nearby grass and withered them.


    Chillwaters emperor and the imperial offspring breathed a sigh of relief after hearing Senior Brother Zhous words. They looked at Fang Chen as if he was dead meat.


    Ji Congyun knew that he mustnt lose hisposure at a time like this, but he couldnt help but feel flustered.


    Even a mere zombie is beyond his means to deal with. Lin Li, theres no need to fear unaffiliated cultivators. Youll be able to easily deal with them too once you reach pinnacle Heaven Profound realm, Senior Brother Zhou said with a smile.


    Lin Li nodded. He red at Fang Chen with hateful eyes. <em>Its a pity Im not at pinnacle Heaven Profound realm, or else Id have personally avenged Junior Sister Han Qin!</em>


    If fireballs dont work, what about ice arrows?


    With such a thought in mind, Fang Chen unleashed an ice arrow.


    Bam!


    The ice arrow did slow the zombies movements, but the effect onlysted an instant. <em>It looks like ice arrows dont work either </em>


    The zombies attack was getting faster and more frenzied. The other zombie had also crept behind him, ready to make a move once he exposed a weakness.


    Without any hesitation, Fang Chen tossed out two Purple Lightning Talismans.


    Boom!


    Purple lightning crashed on the zombie, stunning the crowd. <em>Was that a bolt of lightning?!</em>


    They might not think much about the fireball and the ice arrow, but the same couldnt be said about lightning. It was a means that struck fear in the hearts of mortals and cultivators alike.


    This was divine retribution!


    The zombie struck by the two Purple Lightning Talismans halted its movements. Its body became charred like cooked meat, but as the meat had already rotted, the resulting stench was horrendous.


    A lightning element spell?! Senior Brother Zhousposure finally shattered.


    However, he quickly snapped out of it. <em>It cant be a lightning element spell. Such spells only exist in powerful sects. Theres no way an unaffiliated cultivator would know such a spell.</em>


    Purple Lightning Talisman! Senior Brother Zhou eximed. He recalled seeing a yellow talisman briefly appearing in Fang Chens hand, and that lent further credence to his deduction.


    Purple Lightning Talisman was only a low Yellow-grade talisman, but the lightning energy they harnessed happened to curb yin entities, and zombies were yin entities!


    <em>But Purple Lightning Talismans are incredibly expensive and rare. How could an unaffiliated cultivator have that?</em>


    Chillwaters emperor and the imperial offspring couldnt stay calm anymore. Seeing the aggressive zombie turning into the equivalent of cooked smelly tofu evoked their nausea, especially when they thought about how the smell wasing from a rotting corpse.


    Ji Congyun regained his spirit. <em>It was right for me to put my trust into Fang Chen! He stands a shot at victory as long as hes able to wound the zombie!</em>


    Purple Lightning Talismans? Senior Sister Wang looked at her zombie and frowned. Where did you get that from?


    Fang Chen replied with augh, It looks like lightning can curb your zombies.


    Hah Senior Sister Wang chuckled. Youre right, but your talismans seem to be on the weaker side. They are low-grade talismans, arent they? Youd need at least a hundred of them to bring down my zombies.


    She didnt know Fang Chen had over 200 Purple Lightning Talismans in his storage ring.


    However, Fang Chen had no intention of wasting his Purple Lightning Talismans here. He was content to learn that lightning was the nemesis of zombies.


    Everything he had done thus far was just to gain a deeper understanding of the different elements in the world of cultivation, so that he could be prepared for future trouble.


    Little sword, dont let me down. Fang Chens true trump card was still his ego artifact.


    There was a sh of cold light, and the zombie which Senior Brother Zhou was nigh indestructible suddenly fell backward andnded heavily on the floor. There was a fist-sized bloody hole in its forehead.


    The other zombie suffered the same fate too.


    <em>These zombies dont have a corpse core. Is it because they are of a lower grade, or that they are an entirely different entity altogether?</em> Fang Chen wondered.


    Pu! Senior Sister Wang spewed blood. She visibly looked weaker than before.


    Shock and confusion were reflected in her eyes.

 Chapter 211: A Sword to Curb All Means

    Chapter 211: A Sword to Curb All Means


    The little sword danced energetically around Fang Chen as if to im credit for it.


    Fang Chen was heartened.


    The little sword had lived up to his expectations. His fireball and ice arrow couldnt inflict any damage on it, and even the low-grade Purple Lightning Talismans failed to bring it down. Yet, the little sword sliced through them easily like tofu.


    Smelly, smelly The little sword voiced its dissatisfaction. It was disgusted by the corpse ki.


    It really is smelly. Fang Chen nodded in agreement.


    Hungry, hungry Very hungry


    Bear with it for now. Ill have food for you very soon, Fang Chen consoled.


    The two of themmunicated through telepathy, so the crowd couldnt hear their words. However, they did see a calmly smiling Fang Chen emanating an unfathomable aura, with a little silver sword flying around him.


    Without a doubt, that flying sword was the one that took down the two zombies!


    Senior Brother Zhou was horrified. He would have never thought that Fang Chen could take down the two zombies so easily.


    That flying sword Is it mid Yellow-grade? Senior Brother Zhou wondered before quickly refuting it. Thats impossible. Mid Yellow-grade artifacts contain many daosoul imprints; a mere Ki Refinement cultivator cant possibly mobilize it. Even our Blood Corpse Sect only has a small handful of mid Yellow-grade artifacts


    Senior Brother Zhou slowly began to tremble. <em>If it isnt a mid Yellow-grade artifact, it would mean that Fang Chen exerted that much power by himself. This sounds a lot like the legendary sword cultivators! Could this unaffiliated cultivator be a sword cultivator with his own ego sword?</em>


    The more he thought about it, the more convinced he was of it. <em>No wonder he was so calm. </em>


    Sword cultivators were an extreme case in the world of cultivation. They devoted their time, energy, and sweat on furthering their swordsmanship,pletely neglecting everything else in the process. They were known for their absolute destructive prowess.


    Their swords could unravel all means!


    It was just that sword cultivators were obsessed with fighting, so they tended to be short-livedpared to their peers. That could be the reason there were very few sword cultivator legacies out there.


    The ultimate pursuit of a cultivator for longevity.


    Normal cultivators, even when stumbling upon a fortuitous encounter to be a sword cultivator, might not choose that road. It was a boring and monotonous road, not to mention those who tread on this path tended to be short-lived too!


    Chillwaters emperor and the imperial offspring, who thought that victory was in their grasp, turned pale at that sight. They instinctively turned to Senior Brother Zhou, only to find that his expression looked off too.


    Senior Brother Zhou, arent you going to make a move?! He destroyed two of my zombies, undoing my many years of effort! Senior Sister Wang snapped out of her daze and bellowed at Senior Brother Zhou without a second thought.


    Junior sister Senior Brother Zhou shook his head bitterly. Your opponent might be a sword cultivator


    <em>Sword cultivator?! </em>Senior Sister Wangs face warped in disbelief. She looked at Fang Chen as many thoughts shed across her mind.


    Those who were able to be cultivators were rarely fools. She swiftly noticed the same details that led Senior Brother Zhou to his conclusion, and she gasped in shock. Even her rage faded a little, reced by horror.


    <em>Sword cultivator? They seem to fear that kind of cultivator,</em> Fang Chen thought after seeing their frightened expressions. However, he didnt know the difference between a normal cultivator and a sword cultivator. <em>Does having an ego sword qualify one as a sword cultivator?</em>


    There has been a misunderstanding, Senior Brother Zhou sped his fist and said. I didnt know that you had a sword cultivator legacy. Your master must have been a sword cultivator too, right?


    Chillwaters emperor and the imperial offspring panicked. <em>Are the grade-6 states immortals admitting defeat to Fang Chen?</em>


    Hu Ji Congyun exhaled deeply. <em>The curtains have been drawn. </em>


    He looked at Chillwaters emperor with a triumphant snort. Thetters face had turned pale, and sweat was trickling profusely from his face.


    I told you Im an unaffiliated cultivator, Fang Chen replied.


    I understand, I understand. Senior Brother Zhou nodded as he stopped probing Fang Chens background.


    Unsurprisingly, most sword cultivators had entric temperaments. Someone who spent decades, centuries, or even millennia facing a sword couldnt possibly be normal. Often, they were either fighting or preparing for their next fight.


    It would be most foolish to assumemon sense in a person like that.


    Worst of all, sword cultivators tended to be extremely vindictive.


    He had once heard a rumor that a budding sword cultivator was killed by a powerhouse. That angered the budding sword cultivators elder, but that elder wasnt a match for the powerhouse either and ended up sustaining grievous wounds.


    Later, a bunch of sword cultivators suddenly appeared out of nowhere and massacred the powerhouse and his sect. The powerhouses backing even tried to intervene in the situation, but it was to no avail.


    More and more people got involved in the fight, to the point where the battle actually continued for many years.


    In the end, the powerhouses backing, as well as the backings backing, brought their people over and apologized to the sword cultivators. They suffered heavy losses before this matter was finally resolved.


    Senior Brother Zhou is he really a sword cultivator? Senior Sister Wang asked with a softened tone. She no longer gave off a lofty air; she felt more like an rmed mouse instead.


    It wouldnt make sense how your zombies were defeated in a single strike if he isnt a sword cultivator Only a sword cultivator could unleash such overwhelming prowess, Senior Brother Zhou replied with a resigned sigh.


    <em>Overwhelming prowess? </em>The crowd stared at Fang Chen in a daze. They couldnt imagine how powerful Fang Chen must be for a grade-6 states immortal to describe him in such a manner.


    They felt great regret.


    Chillwaters emperor dearly regretted his action. <em>If I knew this would happen, I would have handed the throne to the Ji n in a dignified fashion. At least Han Qin wouldnt have died</em>


    His heart was filled with pain. Han Qin was the only imperial offspring to have reached Heaven Profound realm at a young age, but she died just like that


    Since you im its a misunderstanding, how do you n to resolve this situation? Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    Senior Brother Zhous heart skipped a beat. He optimistically replied, Ill leave with my junior sister, and well never involve ourselves with Chillwaters affair anymore We shouldnt have gotten involved in the first ce, since both Great Xia and Chillwater are our Greenfoxs vassal states


    The Greenfox he spoke of was the country he belonged to. It lorded over the sixteen grade-7 states around it, and the White Tiger Empire was one of them.


    That wont do, Fang Chen remarked with augh.


    Senior Brother Zhou revealed a bitter smile. What do you propose?


    All he wanted now was to resolve this matter as soon as possible so that he could leave this ce with his junior sister. Thest thing he wanted was to get hounded by a sword cultivator. The person in front of him was still fine; what he feared was the person behind Fang Chen.


    If he offended an enemy beyond the Blood Corpse Sects means to deal with, their sect master would be the first one to strangle them to death.

 Chapter 212: Scrape All Of the Martial Arts Legacies

    Chapter 212: Scrape All Of the Martial Arts Legacies


    That depends on your sincerity, Fang Chen replied.


    <em>Sincerity? </em>Senior Brother Zhou nced at his storage ring. He gritted his teeth and brought out 100 low-grade ki stones. This was all his saving.


    He was showing the full extent of his sincerity to shake this sword cultivator off his tail!


    Daoist Fang, I was nning to use these ki stones to purchase pills, but Ill give them all to you to clear up our misunderstanding. How does it sound? Senior Brother Zhou politely asked.


    Lin Li felt light-headed looking at this sight. <em>How did things end up like this? Why is Senior Brother Zhou admitting defeat without even trying to fight back? Immortals shouldnt be this weak!</em>


    I do feel your sincerity, but it isnt enough. Fang Chen shook his head.


    Senior Brother Zhou immediately turned to Senior Sister Wang and said, Junior sister, take out your ki stones too.


    Senior Sister Wang didnt hesitate to take out 100 low-grade ki stones too.


    However, Fang Chen shook his head.


    Senior Brother Zhou was starting to get anxious. <em>Is he not nning to let us off at all? If thats the case, we have no choice but to put our lives on the line. </em>


    Not just your ki stones. Your artifacts too, Fang Chen said. These are worldly possessions. Dont get too attached to them. The old ones need to go for new ones toe in.


    This The two of them were put in a spot.


    While the Blood Corpse Sects legacy was centered on nurturingbat zombies, they had managed to acquire some artifacts for themselves over the years, and their value far exceeded the 100 low-grade ki stones they had offered.


    Losing 100 low-grade ki stones was a blow, but they could recoup their losses in a year or two. It would be too much if they lost their artifacts on top of thatthey would be set back for at least a decade!


    You dont have much of a choice here, Fang Chen pointed out.


    The two of them clenched their jaws, but in the end, they could only reluctantly hand their artifacts and ki stones to Fang Chen.


    The little sword was excited to see the artifacts. It wanted to dig in right away, but Fang Chen stopped it. He feared that others might covet his sword if they learned that it could devour other artifacts.


    Farewell. I shant be sending you off. Fang Chen cheerily waved his hand.


    Youre too courteous. Senior Brother Zhou sped his fist before he quickly left together with Senior Sister Wang and Lin Li. He didnt even bother bidding farewell to Chillwaters emperor.


    Chillwaters emperor and the officials plunged into silence. The imperial offspring and officials who previously insulted Fang Chen trembled in fear, as their faces turned as white as a sheet of paper.


    Elder Ji, I presume you can settle the rest by yourself? Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    Rest assured, young master Fang. Ill handle the rest. You wont be disappointed. Ji Congyun sped his fist and said.


    Fang Chen nodded before taking his leave. Ji Congyun naturally became the center of attention after his departure.


    Come out, Ji nsmen, Ji Congyun calmly ordered.


    Around fifty people stepped out. Some of them were born in the Ji n, whereas the others were a part of the Ji Faction. All of them had excited looks on their faces, as they already knew what was going to happen next.


    Your Majesty isnt it about time for you to relinquish that seat to us? Ji Congyun smiled at Chillwaters emperor.


    Ji Congyun how could you collude with outsiders? Arent you afraid of Chillwater falling into Great Xias hands? This is the empire painstakingly built by the predecessors of our two ns. Flowing in thisnd is our ancestors blood and sweat! Chillwaters emperor attempted to turn the situation around by convincing Ji Congyun.


    How hriously naive! Ji Congyun sneered. So what if Chillwater is annexed by Great Xia? Great Xia is backed by an immortal. Having such a strong backing is nothing but beneficial to us! Besides


    He looked at the crowd in disdain before continuing on, Young master Fang has no intention of annexing our Chillwater. Our country doesnt have much to offer Great Xia. Just think about the White Tiger Empires attitude toward us.


    It wasnt hard for the officials to understand what Ji Congyun was getting at. Great Xia, like the White Tiger Empire, didnt have much interest in Chillwater. In fact, Great Xia might not even be interested in the White Tiger Empire at all.


    Even immortals from a grade-6 state had admitted defeat to Fang Chen. They could hardly imagine how strong Great Xia would be under Fang Chens protection.


    Chillwaters emperor turned ghastly pale. He shook weakly before copsing to the ground. However, there was not a person who stepped forward to help him other than Eunuch Lin.


    Haa Chillwaters emperor shook his head bitterly. He struggled to his feet and looked at Ji Congyun. Very well. Ill abdicate and hand the throne over to your Ji n. I only hope that our Han n will have a ce in Chillwater.


    Rest assured, our ancestors used to be brothers in arms. Head northward. Ill confer thend there to your Han n, Ji Congyun said.


    Thank you, Chillwaters emperor quietly replied.


    The imperial nsmen and the imperial faction knew that they had lost this battle. Their mood was lower than ever, though they did feel a sliver of relief at having survived this transition.


    In the following days, the news of the Ji n taking over the throne spread like wildfire. Spies from Vastsea, Redsky, and Heavenroc ryed the news back to their respective countries too.


    However, the locals werent surprised to hear that, since the Ji n had ruled over half of Chillwater all this while. It didnt matter to them whether it was the Ji n or the Han n who was in power.


    The Han nsmen swiftly left the empire to head northward. They took a couple of old officials who were reluctant to remain in the capital with them.


    Ji Congyun made no attempt to stop them, as he didnt think that the Han n had any chance of making aeback anymore. Since he wouldnt be able to use those old officials anyway, he felt no pity at their departure.


    At the same time, all of Chillwaters sects, be it weak or strong, received imperial edicts to hand over their respective martial arts legacy.


    This news came as an even greater shock than the change in crown. It stirred a huge uproar in Chillwaters pugilistic world.


    Some of the sects obediently handed over their legacies out of fear of the Ji ns influence, but there were also sects who refused to hand over their long-time legacies and fought back.


    The Ji n might be the dominant power in Chillwater, but there were other major powers too.


    The Forgotten Sea Sword Sect, Chillwaters strongest sword sect, enjoyed high prestige in Chillwater, such that the Ji n and the Han n often treated them as equals. Its sect master was also a powerful martial artist of the same caliber as Ji Congyun.


    The Forgotten Sea Sword Sect had chosen to fight back. It rallied other top sects with Longevity Ki martial artists to break out of the Ji ns encirclement before scattering all over the pugilistic world, making it hard for the Ji n to deal with them.


    Ten dayster, Fang Chen saw an exhausted Ji Congyun.


    Carry them in. Ji Congyun beckoned with his hand.


    Someone carried in ten crates and ced them in front of Fang Chen.


    Young master Fang, here is seven-tenths of Chillwaters martial arts legacies. As for the remaining three-tenths I dont think Ill be able to acquire them any time soon, Ji Congyun replied with a bitter smile.

 Chapter 213: They Found Us!

    Chapter 213: They Found Us!


    Fang Chen had Zhao Yan open the crates to take a look.


    Momentster, Zhao Yan reported, Young master, 136 of the books are martial cultivation methods, of which, 3 can reach pinnacle Earth Profound realm. 437 of the books are martial arts manuals, and their grade varies.


    Fang Chen looked at Ji Congyun and said, Make haste with the remaining three-tenths. Ill be taking these back to Great Xia first.


    Rest assured, young master. Ill capture them. Ji Congyun nodded. Then, he hesitantly asked, Young master, the immortal cultivation method


    No rush. Fang Chen waved his hand.


    Ji Congyun dared not to push his luck.


    The following day, a toon of Nightmare Knights escorted a group out of Chillwaters capital.


    The Crane Forest Valley was a ce that couldnt be circumvented when traveling between Chillwater and Great Xia. Fang Chen and the others had also passed by this area when they previously headed to Chillwater.


    Sometimes, ferocious beasts would be spotted in this region.


    In the carriage, a little sword weaved in between the cracks in Fang Chens fingers swiftly but precisely, not hurting him in the least. Its aura had grown stronger after devouring two artifacts, but Fang Chen was still unable to see the daosoul imprints on it.


    Sword cultivator Fang Chen murmured.


    He still remembered Senior Brother Zhou and Senior Sister Wangs attitudes toward sword cultivators, and that piqued his interest in this specialization. <em>Why are those two arrogant fellows so intimidated by sword cultivators?</em>


    Sword cultivator appears to be a path that focuses on extreme offense. I should give it a try if an opportunity arises, Fang Chen muttered.


    After ying for a short while, the little sword started growling once more, Hungry, hungry


    You I doubt that I can satisfy you even if I have a mountain of gold, Fang Chen remarked with a helpless sigh.


    It was fortunate he still had 1000 low-grade ki stones. He could drop by Dragonback Lane to make some purchases. Perhaps, he might just be able to acquire some better talisman papers and cinnabar.


    He didnt stay too long at Dragonback Lane thest time due to hiscking cultivation, but it shouldnt be a problem now for him to stay longer.


    Zhao Yan and Xu Ge galloped beside each other on steeds outside the carriage. Ji Lengxing and the Forgotten Sea Sword Sects Unmoving Pristine King Sword Xu Qingfeng trailed behind the two of them.


    Xu Qingfeng, your Forgotten Sea Sword Sect should learn how to read the room. Whats the big deal about handing over your martial arts legacy? You wouldnt have been reduced to mere bandits if only your sect did so, Xu Ge said.


    Xu Qingfeng squeezed out a smile and replied, I cant help what our sect master thinks.


    Ji Lengxing quickly interjected, Brother Xu, Qingfeng isnt the one who calls the shots in the Forgotten Sea Sword Sect. Dont take it to heart.


    Xu Ge nced at Ji Lengxing and suddenlyughed. Why would I let something this small get to me? Its just a casual remark. I can only say that your Forgotten Sea Sword Sect has missed a good opportunity.


    Fang Chen was not the type to take favors for granted. Granted that he was forcefully demanding their martial arts legacies, he would still treat it as if he owed them one for this. Should the sects who surrendered their martial arts legacies ask him for a request in the future, he would be inclined to repay the favor.


    <em>Opportunity? </em>Xu Qingfengs eyes zed with fury.


    Meanwhile, several silhouettes flitted across the Crane Forest Valley. Their eyes were fixated on Fang Chens group.


    They have a hundred Nightmare Knights and the old bastards grandsons Ji Lengxing. Our sects Xu Qingfeng is with them. Only ten of the Nightmare Knights have reached Aureate Ki, so they dont pose a threat to us, a white-haired old man said.


    There were three figures standing near him, but other than them, there were hundreds more martial artists lying in wait in the Crane Forest Valley. The weakest of these martial artists were at Aureate Ki, and some were even at Origin Ki.


    Even the Nightmare Knights, which mainlyprised Ki Manifestation martial artists, were considered elite among the elites, but the martial artists lying in ambush here were many times stronger than that.


    Even Ji Congyun would struggle to rally so many experts together under normal circumstances.


    Forgotten Sea Sect Master, I heard that Great Xias Fang Chen is unfathomably strong; he even has a Longevity Ki martial artist as a follower. He dared to massacre Vastseas envoys at the capital harbor, an old woman said with worried eyes. Is it wise to ambush Fang Chen here instead of fleeing Chillwater?


    The white-haired old man looked at the old woman, followed by the other two figures, and harrumphed coldly. The three of you are Longevity Ki martial artists, and your sects used tomand great respect in Chillwater. That fellow caused us to lose our sects and be reduced to mere bandits. Dont you feel indignant about having to escape from our homnd like that?


    The old woman lowered her head and muttered, Im indignant, but who can guarantee that old bastard Ji Congyun isnt camping by the side, waiting for us to make a move?


    We have four Longevity Ki martial artiststwo for Fang Chen, and two for his followers. The rest is enough to deal with the Nightmare Knights. However, itll be a different story if Ji Congyun is here too, another Longevity Ki martial artist said.


    I reckon hes having delusions of grandeur on his throne. The white-haired old man harrumphed. He might be a wily old fox, but hell never guess that wed ambush Fang Chen here. Our vengeance is of secondary importance here. Fang Chen has with him 70% of Chillwater''s martial arts legacy. We have to destroy them, else Earth Profound realm martial artists will start appearing in Great Xia.


    The old woman and the other two Longevity Ki martial artists jolted, then they lowered their heads in contemtion. Slowly, their eyes firmed up.


    Forgotten Sea Sect Master is right. Ji Congyun ns to sell our foundation to Great Xia. We cant let that old scum seed. We need to stop our martial arts legacies from flowing into Great Xia.


    We have to take this risk for Chillwaters continued prosperity.


    Seeing that he had convinced the others, the white-haired old man smiled. His eyes remained firmly on Fang Chens group all this while to follow their movements.


    Theres a narrow gorge ahead. Well make a move there, the white-haired old man said.


    All right!


    Meanwhile, Fang Chen was watching the white-haired old man and the others from the sky. Upon hearing their ploy, he couldnt help but be impressed. <em>These martial artists sure are loyal to put their lives on the line to ambush me for their countrys interest.</em>


    His soul returned to his body, and he said, Theres an ambush ahead. Be careful.


    The crowd was startled.


    Zhao Yan turned grim. He focused on his ears, and he vaguely picked up on heartbeats from the surroundings.


    <em>An ambush? </em>Ji Lengxings face darkened. He nced at Xu Qingfeng with a tinge of pity in his eyes.


    Xu Qingfeng looked flustered. He turned to Ji Lengxing and asked, Lengxing, would someone really ambush us here? Could young master Fang be mistaken? Who would dare to ambush us given Chillwaters current political climate?


    Qingfeng, you chose the wrong side. Ji Lengxing sighed.


    Xu Qingfengs face darkened. He instinctively swung his sword at Ji Lengxing while bellowing, They found us!

 Chapter 214: Obstinate Fools

    Chapter 214: Obstinate Fools


    Xu Qingfengs voice echoed in the Crane Forest Valley. Countless silhouettes rushed out to encircle Fang Chens group.


    The Nightmare Knights were considered elites for a reason; they didnt panic despite the sudden ambush. They swiftly got into abat formation while ring coldly at the surrounding martial artists.


    It was only when they sensed that all of the martial artists were at least at Aureate Ki did their gaze finally falter, revealing hints of shock, vignce, and fear.


    Ji Lengxing, I took you as a brother, but how did you treat me? Today, our sect master has rallied the experts of other sects here to bring justice upon the lot of you! Xu Qingfeng revealed a relieved and rxed smile as if he had finally put down a boulder in his heart.


    He had spotted the Forgotten Sea Sect Master, the other three Longevity Ki experts, and hundreds of other renowned martial artists in Chillwater. Some of them were sect masters, some of them were elders of major sects, but they were all at least at Earth Profound realm.


    With such a line up, they could even rampage in the capital.


    Qingfeng, its because I treated you as a brother that you lived till now. You disappointed me, Ji Lengxing replied with a sigh.


    You treat me as a brother? If so, why does your Ji n covet our Forgotten Sea Sword Sects martial arts legacy? Why are you colluding with outsiders to shake our Chillwaters foundation? Do you know the severe consequences of your actions? Xu Qingfeng roared angrily.


    There are some things you dont understand. You only see whats in front of you, but our Ji n looks at the future. Ji Lengxing shook his head inmentation. He turned to Zhao Yan and asked, Mister Zhao, how should we deal with this?


    Zhao Yan chuckled. He looked at the carriage and asked, Young master, do we massacre them all or leave a couple of them alive?


    What big words! a Longevity Ki martial artist furiously bellowed before Fang Chen could reply. You want to kill all of us alone? Hmph! Youre already knocking on deaths door, but you still talk big!


    I might not be enough on my own, Zhao Yan said, but what if the Ji ns Old Master is here too?


    <em>Ji Congyun?! </em>The Forgotten Sea Sect Master and the others were taken aback. <em>Is Ji Congyun hiding in the shadows, waiting for them to make a move?</em>


    Zhao Yans words shook not only the Longevity Ki experts but the hundreds of Earth Profound realm martial artists too. Rather than Fang Chen, Ji Congyuns name struck greater fear within Chillwater.


    No one dared to make a reckless move anymore.


    The old woman beside the Forgotten Sea Sect Master sneered, Trying to intimidate us? The Forgotten Sea Sect Master told us that Ji Congyun is warming up his hard-earned throne in the capital. He doesnt have time to apany you on your little journey.


    The crowd breathed a sigh of relief. <em>They must be trying to buy time with their words.</em>


    The Forgotten Sea Sect Master chuckled. Young friend, you are talented enough to reach Longevity Ki at such a young age; why lower yourself to serve others? You shoulde with us and live a carefree life in the pugilistic world.


    Zhao Yan finally understood that these people had never met a cultivator before, so they probably were oblivious to Fang Chens means.


    Just then, Fang Chen alighted from the carriage.


    The Forgotten Sea Sect Master and the others immediately turned to look at him.


    So thats Great Xias Fang Chen?


    Other than his decent face, I dont think theres anything special about him. Does he really possess meansparable to a Longevity Ki martial artist?


    The hundreds of Earth Profound realm martial artists cast doubtful gazes at Fang Chen.


    In contrast, the Forgotten Sea Sect Master and the other Longevity Ki experts dared not to underestimate Fang Chen, knowing that he possessed meansparable to them.


    Young master. Zhao Yan and the others bowed.


    Xu Qingfeng red at Fang Chen with hateful eyes. <em>If not for this bastard, our Chillwaters pugilistic world wouldn''t have been in such a mess!</em>


    Ill give you two choices. Retreat now, or die in the Crane Forest Valley, Fang Chen cidly informed the Forgotten Sea Sect Master and the others. Ill give you five minutes to decide.


    Anger seeped in the eyes of the crowd. <em>Arent you being too arrogant?!</em>


    The Forgotten Sea Sect Masters stared at Fang Chen with deep eyes. Fang Chen, our Chillwaters pugilistic world has never crossed your Great Xia before. You shouldnt implicate us in national affairs. We can retreat, but you have to first hand over the martial arts legacies you took from us. Otherwise, blood will be spilled today.


    Do the three of you share the same opinion too? Fang Chen looked at the other three Longevity Ki martial artists. It isnt easy for you to reach your current level. I suggest you think it through.


    The three of them exchanged looks.


    The old woman sneered, We have already thought things through beforeing here. Just the thought of losing our martial arts legacies to Great Xia makes my blood boil with rage!


    Indeed! Return our legacies to us!


    Youre naive to think that youd be able to make away with our martial arts legacies so easily!


    Fang Chen heaved a sigh before returning to the carriage. Elder Ji, Ill leave the rest to you. Dont disappoint me.


    The crowd was startled. <em>Is Ji Congyun really here?</em>


    Before they could react, there was amotion around them. To their horror, they found thousands of Nightmare Knights appearing out of nowhere, staring at them with frigid eyes.


    Impossible! the old woman blurted out. How could you mobilize so many Nightmare Knights without catching our notice?


    I have waited days here for you now. Ji Congyun emerged from the Nightmare Knights with a faint smile. Several figures stood alongside himthey were all Longevity Ki martial artists from the military!


    The Forgotten Sea Sect Master and the others turned grim upon seeing Ji Congyun, and theirplexions only turned more awful when they learned that thetter had spent days waiting for them here.


    Ji Congyun, do you really insist on erring? the Forgotten Sea Sect Master said with a frown.


    Xudong, we can be considered old friends. Why must you go against me? Ji Congyun asked. If you change your mind now, I can plead with young master Fang on your behalf.


    Hahaha! The Forgotten Sea Sect Master burst intoughter. His voice was amplified by his inner ki, such that it echoed deafeningly in the forest.


    Ji Congyun quietly looked at the other party.


    Theughter came to a halt, and murderous intent red from the Forgotten Sea Sect Master. Lets kill all of these people today. Only when they are dead can our Chillwater remain ours!


    The martial artists, who were starting to waver, slowly regained their determination.


    Under the Forgotten Sea Sect Masters order, they charged at Ji Congyun and the others.


    Obstinate fools. Ji Congyun sighed. He raised his hand and bellowed, Kill them!


    Thousands of Nightmare Knights charged with resounding cries.

 Chapter 215: They Are Courting Death

    Chapter 215: They Are Courting Death


    Both sides came to blows.


    The Nightmare Knights swiftly formed a military formation, disying their wealth of groupbat experience. However, Chillwaters martial artists had the advantage in terms of martial cultivation, allowing them to stand their ground.


    Ji Congyun led the Longevity Ki martial artists in a battle against the Forgotten Sea Sect Master and the others. Wherever they passed by, a vacuum would automatically appear in the area.


    No one dared to approach them, fearing the ripples of their battle.


    In this chaotic battle, the area where Fang Chen dwelled was oddly peaceful. Neither the Nightmare Knights nor the martial artists dared approach there. The former feared disturbing Fang Chen, whereas thetter were intimidated by Zhao Yan.


    Xu Qingfeng looked at Ji Lengxing in utmost confusion. Why would Ji Congyune here in advance toy a trap? How could you be certain that our sect masters will ambush you here?


    We have no way of knowing, Ji Lengxing replied. Thats why the Old Master told me to bring you along. If you tipped them off, this would be the ensuing result.


    Xu Qinfeng was shocked beyond words. He never thought that Ji Lengxing would have used him in such a manner. However, this didnt clear up his confusion. But what if I didnt tip them off? Wouldnt your Old Master have made a wasted trip? And all this for a mere Great Xias Fang Chen? Is he that important to your Ji n?


    You dont understand. Ji Lengxing shook his head and fell silent.


    He was equally shocked when he learned several days ago from Ji Congyun that an immortal could potentially rise from their n. That was the reason he was as respectful as he could be to Fang Chen right now too.


    Putting aside waiting days here toy an ambush, Ji Congyun would willingly escort Fang Chen all the way to Great Xia if he had to!


    If an immortal rose from their Ji n, Chillwaters stature would naturally rise as well. They might even have an opportunity to rise to grade-7 in the near future. Faced with such massive rewards, their Chillwaters martial arts legacies werent anything much at all.


    It was a pity they couldnt reveal it in public yet.


    In less than half a minute, the Forgotten Sea Sect Master and the other three Longevity Ki experts on his side had already sustained injuries. They were outmatched by thebined prowess of Ji Congyun and his Longevity Ki military allies.


    Forgotten Sea Sect Master, we should go after Fang Chen! Ji Congyun wont dare to make a move on us once we have him hostage! one of the Longevity Ki martial artists said.


    Without any hesitation, the Forgotten Sea Sect Master dumped Ji Congyun and charged straight for the carriage where Fang Chen was resting. The other three Longevity Ki experts did the same too.


    The Longevity Ki military allies wanted to give chase, but Ji Congyun raised his hand and gestured for them to hold still.


    Dont bother. They are courting their own deaths, Ji Congyun cidly remarked.


    <em>Four Longevity Ki experts are going after one target, and he said that they are courting their own deaths? Is Fang Chen that powerful? </em>The Longevity Ki military allies looked at each other hesitantly.


    The nearby Nightmare Knights halted their battles and pulled their formations back. Simrly, the martial artists also backed away to a safe distance.


    Everyones eyes were focused on the Forgotten Sea Sect Master and the others.


    The four sensed that something was amiss, but they were cornered. The only way they could turn the tables around was to capture Fang Chen. Their n was to have one of them tie down Zhao Yan, whereas the other three went after Fang Chen.


    To their shock, Zhao Yan made no attempt to stop them at all. He merely looked at them with a mocking smile.


    Just then, there was a sh of silver light.


    The four Longevity Ki experts abruptly stiffened up before copsing to the ground. They were dead.


    How is this possible


    The hundreds of Earth Profound realm martial artists were horrified to see that. Their hearts pounded out of sheer fear.


    Impossible Xu Qingfeng was the closest to the four Longevity Ki experts, so he could clearly see the bloody hole that pierced right through their heads.


    His face turned pale, and the only emotion left in his eyes was fear. <em>How could Longevity Ki martial artists die so helplessly?</em>


    Lets continue on our way, Fang Chen ordered.


    Set off! Zhao Yan waved his hand.


    The carriage began moving once more. This time, not a single Earth Profound realm martial artist dared to stop him. Their mind was in utter panic, as they had no idea what to make of this situation.


    Ji Congyun eyed them and impassively said, Put down your weapons, and Ill spare your lives.


    Weapons dropped to the ground one after another. The frightened martial artists had sumbed to despair and lost their will to fight.


    At Dragonback Lanes entrance, the guards verified Fang Chens token and granted him entry.


    Zhao Yan and the others werent with him anymore; they were escorting the martial arts legacies back to Great Xia ahead of him.


    Dragonback Lane was exactly as he remembered it; there were many vendors lying around. These vendors werent too powerful, with most of them being between first stage to fourth stage Ki Refinement. It was rare to even see a fifth stage Ki Refinement cultivator.


    However, Fang Chen didnt venture too deeply into Dragonback Lanest time. He merely visited the street vendors, but there were many proper stores here too.


    Thergest store boasted a huge crowd, but most of the customers entered with expectant smiles, only to leave with pained looks. Fang Chen didnt have many ki stones back then, so he didnt bother to take a look.


    Brother, you look familiar. Ah, I remember you! You bought spirit materials for drawing talismans, right? One of the cultivators suddenly approached him with a warm attitude.


    Fang Chen swiftly recognized the other party after hearing his voice. There was one vendor selling brushes, talisman papers, and cinnabar who tried to scam himthis was the person.


    You have a good memory. Do you need me for anything? Fang Chen asked.


    It looks like youre nning to enter the Dragonback Merchant Guild? You must have made a fortune. The items in there are expensive though. I recently got a new batch of superior talisman spirit materials. Are you interested in taking a look? the other party asked in a whisper.


    Ill pass. Your prices are exorbitant, Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    The other party sheepishly replied, Hahaha! Thats because we werent close back then, but things are different now. I guarantee you high-quality goods at a cheap price. You definitely have to take a look!


    All right, let me take a look, Fang Chen said.


    I dont dare to bring such good stuff with me around. To be frank with you, I found those items with a few other brothers from a treacherous ce, and its currently with my big brother. Why dont you follow me there to check the goods? Even if the trade falls through, we can treat it as making a friend, the other party said.


    Lead the way, Fang Chen said.


    Come with me.


    Five minutester, Fang Chen was led to a little store located near the boundaries of Dragonback Lane. There were hardly any cultivators in the area, and business looked poor.


    A cultivator was lyingzily on a reclining chair. As soon as he caught sight of the two of them, his face lit up with vigor.


    Big brother, I brought a customer here. Quick, lets show our customer the good stuff we procured, the one who led the way said.


    The cultivator manning the store warmly weed Fang Chen, saying, How should I address you? Im Lin Yuezheng. You came to the right ce this time around. We sell high quality goods for the lowest prices around here.


    I heard that you have superior talisman spirit materials? Show me all of thembrushes, talisman papers, and cinnabar, Fang Chen replied.


    Give a moment. Ill fetch them right now. Lin Yuezheng nodded. He turned around to retrieve a couple items before passing them to Fang Chen.


    As soon as Fang Chen came into contact with one of the brushes, it snapped into two and fell onto the ground.


    Lin Yuezheng gasped. This brush of mine was crafted out of Celestial Bluestone, allowing it to channel spirit ki smoothly. It can easily double the efficiency of talisman drawing. How can you break it just like that?!

 Chapter 216: Who Are You?

    Chapter 216: Who Are You?


    This is terrible! My big brothers brush is worth a hefty sum! the man who led the way eximed in a fluster.


    Lin Yuezheng heaved a sigh and said, Forget it. Since Brother Lu Ping was the one who brought you here, Ill just ask 50 low-grade ki stones forpensation.


    Fang Chen was silent for seconds before chuckling. Youre extorting me?


    Extorting? Brother, I dont like the way youre speaking. Its only right for you topensate me after spoiling my brush! Lin Yuezhengs face darkened.


    That Celestial Bluestone Brush is Boss Lins treasure. Many people had offered him 50 low-grade ki stones for it, but he couldnt bear to part with it. You should be d that hes kind enough to demand only 50 low-grade ki stones for it.


    If it was me, I wouldnt let you walk out of here without 100 low-grade ki stones.


    If you refuse to pay, wed have no choice but to get Dragonback Lanes chief here to reason things out.


    A huge crowd of cultivators had gathered at the entrance. Some were adjacent store owners, some were street vendors, and some were simply customers passing by the area. A couple of them spoke up for Lin Yuezheng.


    Brother, I brought you here out of the kindness of my heart. Dont embarrass me, Lu Ping reasoned with Fang Chen. Lets settle this matter bypensating my big brother. It wont be good for you if things blow out of hand too.


    He paused for a second before adding, If you dont have enough ki stones, you can bring out your artifacts too.


    I do have the ki stones, Fang Chen replied.


    Lu Ping and Lin Yuezheng exchanged gleeful looks.


    But I dont n on bing meat on your chopping board, Fang Chen added with a smile.


    Lin Yuezhengs face darkened. Are you nning to shirk your debt? Fine, lets get the Dragonback Lanes chief out and have him judge this matter!


    Theres no need to busy the chief over this. Ill mediate on your behalf, a middle-aged cultivator said with a chuckle as he entered the store with ten other people.


    Paying respect to Manager Li. the crowd politely greeted with a bow.


    Its my honor to have someone as esteemed as you grace my store. Manager Li, this way please, Li Yuezheng warmly weed the middle-aged cultivator and personally took a chair for thetter.


    Manager Li sat down with a satisfied smile and crossed his legs. He assessed Fang Chen before asking, You look unfamiliar. How should I address you? My family name is Li, and I work under Dragonback Lanes chief. Im in charge of settling conflicts in this market.


    I am from the Fang n. Manager Li, these two people are colluding to extort money from me. How does your Dragonback Lane deal with such matters? Fang Chen calmly asked.


    Its a pleasure to meet you, Daoist Fang, Manager Li said with a perfunctory smile. You said that Boss Lin is extorting you? I dont believe you. Theres no one in our Dragonback Lane who doesnt know how humble Boss Lin is. There are times when he even aids struggling cultivators. Its hard to believe that someone like that would resort to extortion.


    Manager Li nced at the broken Celestial Bluestone Brush on the ground. One of his subordinates picked it up and respectfully handed it to him.


    Oh? This is an incredible brush. Such a brush would have greatly increased the efficiency of drawing talismans. I heard that celestial bluestone can tame even the wildest spirit ki.


    Drawing talismans defies heavens will by siphoning energy from the world. During the process, ones spirit ki will go rampant, making it difficult to even hold the brush stably. If not for that, talismans wouldnt have been so expensive, costing an astronomical 2 to 3 low-grade ki stones each, Manager Li said. It should be hard to find celestial bluestones in our region, right?


    Indeed, Manager Li. The crowd nodded in agreement.


    What a pity that this brush is spoiled. Manager Li shook his head inmentation. He turned to Fnag Chen and said, Daoist Fang, lets do this. Youll pay Boss Lin 60 low-grade ki stones, and Ill have Boss Lin drop this matter. We can avoid needless conflict this way. What do you think?


    Lin Yuezheng and Lu Ping looked at Fang Chen with gleeful smiles. They had been in the Dragonback Lane for many years, during which they often sent little gifts to Manager Li to forge connections with thetter. Their efforts were paying off today.


    Manager Li is asking you a question. Why arent you answering? And why do you keep your eyes closed? Are you looking down on us? Lu Ping sneered.


    Fang Chen slowly opened his eyes, revealing his cid, grayish-white eyes. For some reason, the crowd felt goosebumps when they saw those eyes, and a chill went down their spines.


    <em>Whats going on? Is it a hallucination? </em>Manager Li frowned. He decided not to think too much into that and instead focused on the issue on hand. Daoist Fang, youre blind?


    Hes a blind man?


    How did a disabled man like him be a cultivator?


    He might have be disabled after bing a cultivator.


    The crowd gossiped.


    Im blind, but it doesnt matter to me. I can see what you see, though I can also see what you dont see, Fang Chen calmly replied. Manager Li, it sounds like you have decided to side with those two lowlifes. Is this the way the Dragonback Lane handles conflicts? If so, Im going to be very disappointed.


    Who are you calling a lowlife? Lu Pings face darkened as he began channeling his spirit ki.


    Lin Yuezheng sneered. <em>Hes still putting on a strong front even though Manager Li has already gotten involved? Hmph, hell regret his decision very soon!</em>


    Audacious!


    Manager Li shot to his feet. His spirit ki furiously flowed out, revealing that he was a seventh stage Ki Refinement cultivator!


    The crowd was shocked, especially the nearby cultivators. They quickly turned their attention over upon sensing the outburst of spirit ki.


    The majority of the cultivators in Dragonback Lane were unaffiliated cultivators, and most of them were between first stage to fourth stage Ki Refinement. It was rare for cultivators with proper legacies to appear here.


    Being a fourth stage Ki Refinement cultivator was the hallmark of an expert here. It was rare to find any cultivators at fifth stage or sixth stage here; such figures tended to be famous here, so normal people wouldnt dare to mess with them.


    And Manager Li was a true seventh stage Ki Refinement cultivator!


    It was rare for unaffiliated cultivators to reach such a level. Such people would be respected even if they went to major sects.


    However, an aura even more powerful that Manager Lis instantaneously enveloped the area.


    Fang Chens hair fluttered as a terrifying aura shrouded him.


    He is at eighth stage Ki Refinement?! the crowd eximed in horror.


    Lin Yuezheng and Lu Ping were stunned.


    Manager Li trembled as if he had been struck by a bolt of lightning. He asked with an uncertain voice, Who in the world are you?

 Chapter 217: Ten Times Compensation

    Chapter 217: Ten Times Compensation


    This isnt good Boss Lin has messed with the wrong person this time around!


    To think that he would be this unlucky!


    Even our Dragonback Lanes chief is only at ninth stage Ki Refinement I wonder how hed deal with this matter.


    Such murmurs could be heard from the doorway. Those who cooperated with Lin Yuezheng earlier to pressure Fang Chen cowered, fearing that they would catch Fang Chens attention.


    Lin Yuzheng and Lu Pings bodies stiffened up. Even their breathing became ragged. This was a symptom of extreme fear. They had never been so afraid in their life before!


    Fang Chen looked at Manager Li with a mocking smile. You asked who I am? Didnt I tell you earlier? Im from the Fang n.


    D-Daoist Fang, its all a misunderstanding. Ill reinvestigate this matter. If they really extorted you, Ill deal with them in ordance with our Dragonback Lanes rules. Manager Li hurriedly changed his tune.


    How can a tree grow straight when its base is crooked? You said you would reinvestigate this matter? Fang Chen chuckled softly. He walked up to Manager Li and softly hit his face a couple times. You expect me to believe that? Youd just find an excuse to sneak them out. How should I redress my grievance then? Am I supposed to take this lying?


    Manager Lis body stiffened up. He was angered by Fang Chens humiliation, but he dared not to fight back.


    Hierarchy was strict among cultivators. There was a huge difference between seventh rank and eighth rank Ki Refinement cultivators. He dared not to make a reckless move, especially when he hadnt gotten to the bottom of Fang Chens background.


    Manager Li was silent for a few seconds before he asked, Daoist Fang, what do you suggest?


    I want tenfoldpensation. Since he tried to extort 50 low-grade ki stones from me, I want him topensate me with 500. You''ll fork out the rest if the two of them dont have enough, Fang Chen said with a smile. Thats the price of colluding with them against me.


    Manager Lis face warped in shock. The crowd also gasped in astonishment.


    <em>500 low-grade ki stones?</em>


    That was a massive sum they dared not dream about.


    Those who had 20 low-grade ki stones could already be considered wealthy. In fact, most cultivators in Dragonback Lane would struggle to raise even 10 low-grade ki stones, and some even hadpletely empty pockets.


    Lu Ping fell to his knees and cried, I-I only have 8 low-grade ki stones


    Lin Yuezheng was also horrified. He instinctively turned to Manager Li, hoping that thetter could negotiate with Fang Chen to lower the sum. He had been trading in Dragonback Lane for years now, but he had only gathered roughly a hundred low-grade ki stones.


    Thest thing he wanted was for this single mishap to bankrupt him!


    Daoist Fang, 500 low-grade ki stones is too much. How about this? Ill have them pay you double the sum, 100 low-grade ki stones, and well call it quits with that, Manager Li carefully asked.


    He knew that Lin Yuezheng had the means to fork out 100 low-grade ki stones.


    Does it look like Im haggling with you? Either you pay me tenfold the sum or Ill take your lives, Fang Chen stated with a calm but unwavering tone.


    The trio shuddered as cold sweat rained from them.


    Just then, the crowd opened up a path, and an old man slowly walked over. He looked ordinary, but the cultivators of Dragonback Lane revealed respectful looks upon seeing him.


    Chief!


    Manager Li looked as if he had seen his savior. He tried to rush to the old mans side, only to be stopped by Fang Chen.


    The old man looked at Manager Li with an unreadable smile. Manager Li, I warned you time and time again not to fool around with this ce, but clearly, my words have fallen on deaf ears. Are you climbing over my head now because you think Im on the verge of death?


    Manager Li felt as if someone had plunged his heart into a midwinterke.


    Young friend, I am Song Yu. I founded the Dragonback Lane together with a few unaffiliated cultivators who share the same ideologies as me. Its a pity that those old friends are either dead or have gone elsewhere, so I am the only one left guarding this ce, the old man said.


    We established this ce in hopes that unaffiliated cultivators could work together to achieve win-win situations, but I see that my ipetence has led to maggots breeding.


    Fang Chen looked at the old man and cidly asked, So, how do you intend to deal with this?


    He didnt loosen his stance just because of the other partys self-reproachful words.


    Well settle it as you have suggested. 500 low-grade ki stones, not a single one less, Song Yu replied. Ill order my men to confiscate their properties and have them sold for ki stones. If the sum falls short, Ill make up for it with my assets. Would you be satisfied with such a resolution?


    Of course, Fang Chen replied with a nod.


    Song Yu smiled. If you dont mind, lets wait here for a moment. Itll take some time to confiscate and process their assets.


    I understand.


    Song Yu ordered his men to confiscate the trios assets.


    Lu Ping, who imed to have only 8 low-grade ki stones in his assets, turned out to have 40 low-grade ki stones. Lin Yuezheng had 130 low-grade ki stones. Manager Li was the wealthiest one of all, boasting assets totaling 300 low-grade ki stones.


    The crowd gasped. They looked at Manager Li with eyes filled with envy and dissatisfaction.


    <em>A mere seventh stage Ki Refinement cultivator actually rued over 300 low-grade ki stones; this showed how much shady deals he had made through exploiting the influence he boasted in Dragonback Lane!</em>


    The trios fortunes totaled 470 low-grade ki stones.


    Song Yu didnt hesitate to fork out the remaining 30 low-grade ki stones from his pocket.


    Within two short hours, 500 low-grade ki stones fell into Fang Chens pocket.


    Manager Li and the others stood on the spot with tearful faces, looking as if their families had been killed. Rather than fearing death, they were more upset about losing their possessions.


    Those were their life earnings!


    The three of you can scram from the Dragonback Lane. Never set foot here again, Song Yu said.


    Manager Li was stunned. He kneeled on the floor and cried, Chief, I know I have done wrong. Please dont kick me out!


    Lin Yuezheng and Lu Ping did the same and pleaded for mercy too.


    It was already lucky for unaffiliated cultivators like them to find a ce like the Dragonback Lane at all. It was questionable whether they could find another ce simr to this even if they spent the next few decades searching around.


    Without the ess to such a market, they wouldnt be able to acquire spirit materials and earn ki stones. They thought that was as good as taking their lives!


    Leave before I make a move. Song Yu impatiently waved his hand.


    Manager Li sucked his tears back in. He knew that Song Yu had made up his mind, so he quietly stood up and left. The other two did the same and hurriedly fled from the scene. They dared not to even nce at Fang Chen.


    Young friend, what do you intend to acquire in our Dragonback Lane? Shall I apany you in your search? Song Yu asked with a smile.

 Chapter 218: Nine Tributions Cinnabar

    Chapter 218: Nine Tributions Cinnabar


    I am fond of drawing talismans, so Id like to buy some talisman spirit materials. Other than that I have been wandering around for several years now, so Id like to bring some gifts back for my juniors. Artifacts should do, but probably not too high grade ones, Fang Chen replied.


    Song Yus smile widened. <em>Im right! This person is indeed not an unaffiliated cultivator like us but a proper cultivator who has inherited a legacy!</em>


    Young friend, thergest store in our Dragonback Lane is the Dragonback Merchant Guild. Let me bring you there to take a look.


    Elder, Ill be troubling you, Fang Chen politely replied.


    Song Yu waved his hands. Dont call me elder. Im only at ninth stage Ki Refinement, whereas youre already at eighth stage Ki Refinement. Consider us equals.


    After exchanging pleasantries, Song Yu brought Fang Chen to the Dragonback Merchant Guild.


    What esteemed guests! The boss of Dragonback Merchant Guild warmly weed them.


    Young friend, this is Boss You, a veteran of our Dragonback Lane. He owns the Dragonback Merchant Guild. Their You n is an established merchant n, and they have stores in many markets. Their items are also top-notch in terms of quality, Song Yu introduced with a smile.


    <em>Merchant n? Is he from a cultivator n, given how hes dealing with cultivator goods?</em>


    Fang Chen smiled at Boss You and said, Boss You, Id like to purchase some talisman spirit materials and artifacts. May I know if you have those in your store?


    Of course, of course. Shall we move to the lounge first? Boss You politely invited.


    The few of them moved over to the lounge. Without further ado, Boss You took out a couple of talisman spirit materials from his storage ring.


    Daoist Fang, these are my most valuable talisman spirit materials. I rarely show them since unaffiliated cultivators cant afford them, Boss You excitedly introduced.


    Look at these three brushes. Their handles contain at least a tael of real celestial bluestone. Do you see the fine fur used for the brush tip? They are acquired from pinnacle Ki Refinement beasts. There might not even be a single pinnacle Ki Refinement beast here. These brushes are imported from grade-6 states.


    Old You, Im disappointed in you. Why have you never shown such treasures to me before? Song Yu remarked merrily.


    Boss You replied with augh, Well, you know what they say about unting ones wealth. Chief Song, you dont specialize in talismans, so its meaningless even if I show them to you.


    Fine, Ill take that. Song Yu shook his head. Drawing talismans is a hassle, and they take up precious cultivation time. I dont have that much free time to squander.


    Fang Chen took the three brushes and inspected them. He tried channeling his spirit ki through them, and he found that his spirit ki was extremely stable. Such a brush would be of great help to his talisman drawing.


    Boss You, how much do these three brushes cost? Fang Chen asked.


    Boss You pondered for seconds before replying, I shant be too ck-hearted since you were brought here by Chief Song. Ill offer you a fair price100 low-grade ki stones for each brush.


    Boss Song, arent you being too greedy? You can buy a 10 daosoul imprint artifact with 100 low-grade ki stones! Song Yu frowned. How can a mere talisman brush be so pricey?


    Chief Song, you dont know how popr these talisman brushes are out there. A talisman master can easily recoup his losses by drawing a dozen talismans or so. In contrast, artifacts cant be used for drawing talismans, Boss Yu exined with a sigh.


    Its indeed a reasonable price. Ill buy it. Fang Chen took out 300 low-grade ki stones with a smile before towing away the three talisman brushes.


    Talisman drawing consumed not only talisman papers and cinnabar, but talisman brushes too. Talisman brushes often had a short lifespan due to umted damage from channeling spirit ki. In fact, even the three brushes he had just acquired were unlikely tost long.


    Even so, they were necessary for drawing high-grade Purple Lightning Talismans.


    Decisive! Boss You shot a thumbs up before stowing away the ki stones. He proceeded to introduce the other spirit materials. Daoist Fang, these talisman papers are from a grade-6 state too. They are made out of Thunderjolt Wood. They are highly conducive for drawing fire element talismans.


    At this point, Boss You heaved a sigh before adding, Admittedly, these talisman papers are best for drawing lightning element talismans, but there are very few cultivators who know how to draw lightning element talismans, so these talisman papers are rtively cheaper.


    <em>Thunderjolt Wood?</em>


    Fang Chen took one of the talisman papers and inspected it. He could sense a tinge of lightning energy in it, a sign that it was superior spirit material for drawing the Purple Lightning Talisman.


    Boss You, Im not familiar with fire and lightning element talismans, but I concede that it wont be easy to find talisman papers ofparable quality. How much do you charge? Fang Chen put down the talisman papers, looking not too enthusiastic about them.


    Boss You was anxious. He had struggled to sell these talisman papers due to their exorbitant price. It wasnt easy to stumble upon a powerful cultivator who was interested in talismans and had the financial means to splurge. He didnt want to miss this rare chance to sell it off.


    He thought hard about it before offering, How about a low-grade ki stone each?


    How about you rob a bank instead? Song Yu harrumphed. Youre saying this scrap paper is worth a low-grade ki stone each? Young friend, lets get some ordinary talisman papers instead. You can buy an entire stack of talisman papers for a low-grade ki stone.


    Chief Song, you clearly dont understand talismans! Do you know how much 50 grams of Thunderjolt Wood cost? Boss You raised all his fingers up for emphasis. 100 low-grade ki stones! And thats if youre lucky to stumble upon it at all!


    You can only make 70 to 80 talisman papers with 50 grams of Thunderjolt Wood. Im already making a loss with this sales. If Im dealing with another cultivator who can put these talisman papers to good use, Id have sold them for 2 low-grade ki stones each!


    Its indeed pricey. Fang Chen shook his head.


    He turned his attention from the talisman papers to a bottle of cinnabar that Boss You had taken out.


    Its lid was open, and there looked to be around 200 to 250 grams of fine purple cinnabar inside the bottle. Every cinnabar grain was around the same size, a sign that it was well processed.


    Boss You was disappointed to see that Fang Chen wasnt interested in the talisman papers, but he perked up to introduce the cinnabar. Daoist Fang, there is 250 grams of cinnabar inside the bottle. Im selling 50 grams for 30 low-grade ki stones.


    Why dont you


    Song Yu was just about to interject when Boss You red at him and harrumphed. Boss Song, this cinnabar of mine is a treasure!


    Seven years ago, a powerful cultivator underwent the first lightning tribtion of the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions. The terrifying power of the lightning tribtion reduced that powerful cultivator into cinders, but the sand he sat on absorbed the power of the lightning tribtion and transformed into the Nine Tribtions Cinnabar.


    As soon as the lightning tribtion ended, different sects swooped in and split the Nine Tribtions Cinnabar among themselves. Our You n bought it from others at a hefty price. Surely we have to make a profit too?


    Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions? Yu Song turned grim.


    He dared not imagine how powerful a cultivator undergoing the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions was.

 Chapter 219: Selling Purple Lightning Talismans

    Chapter 219: Selling Purple Lightning Talismans


    This cinnabar might have only absorbed the energy of the first tribtion, but its price is bound to be anything but cheap. Other than for drawing talismans, you can also use it to treat injuries inflicted by lightning element attacks too, Boss You exined with a smile.


    You can be certain cultivators who require it will pay exorbitant prices for it. Admittedly, I have had this Nine Tribtions Cinnabar with me for many years now, but I havent met anyone who truly needs it. If not on Chief Songs ount, I wouldnt have shown it to you at all.


    Song Yu nodded. Ill acknowledge that.


    He turned to Fang Chen and asked, Young friend, do you need the Nine Tribtions Cinnabar? If you ask me, Id say that ordinary cinnabar works fine too. Why dont you


    In my sect, only my seniors are qualified to use such a cinnabar. Its a rare stroke of luck for me to encounter it today, Fang Chen said with a smile.


    Song Yu and Boss You perked up upon hearing those words. The two of them exchanged joyous looks.


    In truth, Boss You had only kept this item this long because he wanted to use it to befriend orthodox cultivators.


    The person before them had reached eighth stage Ki Refinement despite his young age; chances were that the sect behind him was a formidable entity too. The fact that they had the financial means to use the Nine Tribtion Cinnabar further verified their guess.


    Boss You, how about this? Ill take the cinnabar and talisman papers for 200 low-grade ki stones, Fang Chen offered with a smile.


    This Boss You was put in a spot.


    He had 200 talisman papers made out of Thunderjolt Wood, which was worth 200 low-grade ki. Simrly, the 250 grams of Nine Tribtions Cinnabar was worth 150 low-grade ki stones too. All in all, that should have cost 350 low-grade ki stones.


    To sell them for 200 low-grade ki stones


    <em>I wont make a loss here, but I wont make a profit too, and thats the same as making a loss to me. </em>


    Boss You, its fate that brought this young friend to our Dragonback Lane, Song Yu suddenly spoke up.


    Boss You was jolted out of his daze. <em>Indeed, I need to consider the long-term benefits here. Even if I dont earn from this deal, its still worthwhile to sell a favor here. Cultivator ns like us can only maximize our benefits from befriending orthodox cultivators. </em>


    If Chief Song is willing to go this far I can also see that Daoist Fang is an outstanding cultivator with a bright future ahead. Very well, I shall sell it all to you for 200 low-grade ki stones then! Boss You grandly waved his hand and made the deal.


    All in all, Fang Chen spent 500 low-grade ki stones for three talisman brushes, 200 Thunderjolt Wood talisman papers, and 250 grams of Nine Tribtions Cinnabar.


    <em>If I use all of these spirit materials to draw high-grade Purple Lightning Talismans and sell them, considering the talismans going price of around 15 to 20 low-grade ki stones My little sword wont have to starve anymore. </em>


    Fang Chen quietly cheered.


    However, that wasnt the end of the trade yet.


    In ordance with Fang Chens request, Boss You took out all of the artifacts inside the Dragonback Merchant Guild. There were over a hundred artifacts in total, ranging from 1 to 9 daosoul imprints.


    Are there no better artifacts? Fang Chen asked.


    The little sword weaved in between his finger cracks. It wasnt interested in low-grade artifacts, possibly because the spirit materials they were made from didnt live up to its standards.


    Song Yu and Boss You eyed the little sword, and that further convinced them of Fang Chens background. Even they couldnt see through the artifacts grade!


    Their guess was that this flying sword had at least 12 daosoul imprints!


    Young friend, were a small market. We dont have that many artifacts here, Song Yu replied with a helpless smile.


    Even Song Yu himself only had a 9 daosoul imprint artifact. It was impossible to sell better artifacts here, since the unaffiliated cultivators here didnt have that much purchasing power.


    Boss You also replied with a troubled frown, Daoist Fang, Im afraid these are all the goods I have in my store. They might be of varying grades, but their qualities are top-notch here. You can be certain they wont be damaged after a few uses.


    I see Fang Chen sighed. Boss You, you tally the prices. Let me know how much all these artifacts cost.


    Youre buying all of them? Boss You reflexively nced at Song Yu in astonishment.


    Song Yu coughed. Young friend, this isnt a small sum. Just that one He pointed to a 9 daosoul imprint crimson-gold hammer that was around the size of an arm. costs around 120 low-grade ki stones.


    Hungry, hungry the little sword cried.


    Money is not a problem. Ill trade with other stuff if I dont have enough ki stones, Fang Chen replied.


    Other stuff? Boss You pondered about it before asking, Daoist Fang, you should also know that artifacts are staples for cultivators. More often than not, they are easier to sellpared to other items. May I know what you are using for trading?


    How much do you think this Purple Lightning Talisman is worth? Fang Chen ced a Purple Lightning Talisman on the table before looking intently at the two of them.


    <em>Purple Lightning Talisman?! </em>Song Yu and Boss You were visibly startled.


    Boss You picked up the Purple Lightning Talisman to inspect it. He even tried channeling his spirit ki through it to verify its authenticity. It really is a Purple Lightning Talisman and it seems to be mid-grade!


    A mid-grade Purple Lightning Talisman Song Yu fell into deep thought. I have seen someone selling a mid-grade Purple Lightning Talismans during my travels before. It was sold at a price of 10 low-grade ki stones then.


    Thats the normal price of a Purple Lightning Talisman, but with its rarity and usefulness, its price can be easily hiked up to 11 or 12 low-grade ki stones. It is the talisman with the highest offensive prowess, after all, Boss You eximed.


    Young friend, how many mid-grade Purple Lightning Talismans do you have? Ill buy some from you, Song Yu said.


    I only have one mid-grade Purple Lightning Talisman left.


    One? The two of them sounded disappointed.


    Boss You said with a sigh, Daoist Fang, a mid-grade Purple Lightning Talisman wont be enough to pay for all these artifacts


    I have low-grade Purple Lightning Talismans too, Fang Chen replied.


    Low-grade? Boss You spent a moment in thought before offering, Ill purchase your low-grade Purple Lightning Talismans for 8 low-grade ki stones each.


    Talismans were one of the easiest consumables to sell. He could easily resell a low-grade Purple Lightning Talisman for 9 low-grade ki stones. The more stocks he took on, the greater his earning!


    That works for me. Ill sell it all to you.


    Fang Chen took out all 200 of his low-grade Purple Lightning Talismans. He had drawn them while he was inside the Ji n. He wascking in spirit materials then, so he could only draw low-grade ones.


    Song Yu and Boss Yous lower jaws ckened. This was the first time they saw so many Purple Lightning Talismans. It took a long time for them to realize that they werent dreaming.


    The two of them looked at Fang Chen with shocked frowns.


    D-Daoist Fang did you draw these Purple Lightning Talismans yourself? Boss You asked with a careful voice.


    He naturally remembered the talisman brushes, Thunderjolt Wood talisman papers, and Nine Tribtions Cinnabar he had just sold to Fang Chen. <em>Damn it! What a wasted opportunity! I only sold them so cheaply because I thought he was an outsider!</em>


    I drew them with my fellow sect members. They told me to sell them since we wont need so many of them, Fang Chen casually replied.


    The two of them straightened their postures. <em>A sect with the Purple Lightning Talismans legacy is definitely a powerhouse!</em>


    Boss You, you cant monopolize all of these Purple Lightning Talismans. I have to buy some to ensure my juniors safety too, Song Yu said.

 Chapter 220: Immaculate Poison King

    Song Yu and Boss You began fighting over the Purple Lightning Talismans¡¯ buying rights.


    In the end, Song Yu imed a fourth of it, whereas the remaining three-fourths were taken up by Boss You.


    It was not to say that the Purple Lightning Talismans were cheap, but it was a lightning element talisman, after all. It boasted tremendous destructive prowess, and it could curb yin entities and demons too. Most cultivators would be more than happy to pay for such a protective means.


    Besides, they could profit from sales of the Purple Lightning Talismans too, and they wouldn¡¯t have a problem selling them out through the Dragonback Lane.


    In gist, they wouldn¡¯t be disadvantaged by this deal!


    It didn¡¯t take long for an additional 1700 low-grade ki stones to drop into Fang Chen¡¯s pockets. Factoring in the 1000 low-grade ki stones he already had, he now boasted a massive fortune of 2700 low-grade ki stones!


    ¡°Boss You, do help me tally the prices of these artifacts,¡± Fang Chen said.


    Boss You began tallying the prices.


    Five minutester, he turned to Fang Chen and said, ¡°Daoist Fang, I have a total of 103 artifacts here. Each of their prices is¡­¡±


    He proceeded to list a series of prices. In the end, he revealed the total price, ¡°All in all, the artifacts are worth 2486 low-grade ki stones. I¡¯ll round down the cost to 2480.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s further round it down to 2400 low-grade ki stones,¡± Fang Chen suggested.


    Boss You heaved a sigh and said, ¡°All right, let¡¯s go with that price then.¡±


    Fang Chen nodded in satisfaction. He quickly calcted his ki stones and handed them over. Then, he stowed away the hundred artifacts.<em>I have to find a ce to feed my little sword now.</em>


    He stood up and smiled. ¡°It¡¯s gettingte now. I¡¯ll be taking my leave.¡±


    Song Yu was taken aback. ¡°Young friend, where are you in a rush to? Why don¡¯t you stay a few more days?¡±


    ¡°Indeed. It just so happens there¡¯s an auction tomorrow. Why don¡¯t you stay behind to take a look? There might be something you need there,¡± Boss You added.


    ¡°An auction?¡± Fang Chen murmured.


    ¡°Young friend, Boss You spent three years preparing this auction. Many powerful unaffiliated cultivators and orthodox cultivators will be joining too. They¡¯ll likely bring decent goods along,¡± Song Yu said. ¡°Why don¡¯t you stay another day? You might be lucky to find some good steals.¡±


    It was no wonder Fang Chen thought there were more people in Dragonback Lane than usual.


    He wasn¡¯t familiar with the unaffiliated cultivators in this region, so he thought it would be good to learn more about them.


    ¡°All right, I¡¯ll stay another day since the two of you insist,¡± Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    Song Yu and Boss You treated Fang Chen to a scrumptious dinner for the night.


    Following that, Fang Chen then settled into a room they prepared for him. He took out the artifacts, and the little sword dove into the pile and devoured them.


    The little sword¡¯s aura intensified with the devouring of each artifact. By the time it devoured all hundred artifacts, its length had grown by 6 centimeters.


    ¡°Delicious! Satisfied!¡± the little sword danced around as it spoke with a childlike voice.


    <em>The little fellow¡¯s ability to express itself has improved with its growth.</em>


    ¡°Little fellow, are you full now? This means I don¡¯t have to feed you as much anymore, right?¡± Fang Chen waved his hands with a smile.


    The little sword flew toward Fang Chen¡¯s hands and eximed, ¡°Eat eat eat! Grow!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re going to be massive at this rate.¡± Fang Chen chuckled.


    ¡°Eat! Unseal! Sword cultivator!¡± the little sword said excitedly.


    ¡°Hm?¡± Fang Chen was stunned. ¡°What did you say? Sword cultivator?¡±


    ¡°Unseal! Sword cultivator! Unseal! Sword cultivator!¡± the little sword pounced around while eximing in an expectant voice.


    ¡°This is more than I expected. Does it have a sword cultivator legacy?¡± Fang Chen turned grim.<em>It looks like I have to find more artifacts to feed the little sword. Sword cultivators should be quite formidable, judging from the attitudes of those two from the Blood Corpse Sect.</em>


    The following day, Fang Chen and Song Yu made their way to the Dragonback Merchant Guild together. This time, Boss You didn¡¯t have the energy to host them as he was busy weing the unaffiliated cultivators who had rushed here from many ces.


    ¡°There are quite a number of cultivators above sixth stage Ki Refinement,¡± Fang Chen remarked with a smile.


    Song Yu nodded. ¡°Those who are able to reach sixth stage Ki Refinement are talented ones among us unaffiliated cultivators. It¡¯s not easy for unaffiliated cultivators for us toe this far, since even the cultivation methods we have are often iplete.¡±


    Fang Chen chuckled, feigning ignorance about what Song Yu was getting at. Thetter was disappointed to see that, but he didn¡¯t say anything about it. He brought Fang Chen around to greet the unaffiliated cultivators.


    The unaffiliated cultivators were curious about Fang Chen¡¯s background, but since Song Yu didn¡¯t say a word about it, they dared not ask about it either.


    Just then, a faint stench wafted over.


    Many cultivators scrunched up their noses in disgust.


    ¡°What¡¯s that smell?¡±


    ¡°Did someone take a dump in their pants?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s horrid!¡±


    Those voices vanished shortly after, for they saw a little hunched figure at the entrance.


    It was hard to tell this person¡¯s age, but his physique was roughly that of an 8-year-old child. There was a huge tumor growing from his back. It had burst at some parts, so pungent green pus asionally flowed from it. There were also many smaller tumors growing from the other parts of his body, and pus would seep from them every now and then.


    ¡°The Immacte Poison King.¡± Song Yu¡¯s face stiffened up.


    ¡°I can¡¯t sense any hint of cultivation from him.¡± Fang Chen frowned.


    ¡°That¡¯s not him. That man over there is just a test subject. The Immacte Poison King dwells on the Immacte Mountain, which is over 1500 kilometers away from here. I didn¡¯t expect him to make a presence here.¡± Song Yu looked wary.


    ¡°Remember, you must never offend the Immacte Poison King. He¡¯s a vicious person with many underhanded means. On top of that, he¡¯s a tenth stage Ki Refinement cultivator. Even orthodox cultivators will think twice before getting on his bad side.¡±


    Just then, a fatty who looked to be in his fifties suddenly appeared behind the hunched figure. He bared his upper body, and his hair and beard were braided in all sorts of colors¡ªred, yellow, green, blue, and some even emitted a faint glow.


    ¡°Ah!¡±


    Many cultivators gasped when they recognized the fatty. The disgust they showed on their faces swiftly morphed into terror as they retreated to the side.


    ¡°Hehe!¡± The Immacte Poison King looked at the crowd and snickered. ¡°Am I very smelly? Why do I see such expressions on your faces?¡±


    No one dared to answer. Boss You rushed forward just then and warmly weed him, ¡°Brother Immacte, do pardon myck of hospitality. Please,e in! I have prepared a distinguishedpartment room just for you!¡±


    The Immacte Poison King snickered once more. His gaze lingered on Song Yu for a few seconds before he entered the Dragonback Merchant Guild with Boss You.


    Looking at the Immacte Poison King¡¯s departing silhouette, Fang Chen asked, ¡°Does he often test his medicine on mortals?¡±


    Song Yu replied with a hushed voice, ¡°Not entirely so. He usually uses enemies who offended him as test subjects, though he does use mortals too. Young friend, just ignore it. It¡¯d be foolish to offend the Immacte Poison King over a mere mortal. I heard he even severely poisoned a Foundation Establishment cultivator who came after him a while back!¡±

 Chapter 221: Auction

    Chapter 221: Auction


    <em>The Immacte Poison King severely injured a Foundation Establishment cultivator but is still well and alive? That exins his arrogance. He must have formidable means up his sleeves, </em>Fang Chen thought.


    Young friend, whats on your mind? Surely you dont intend to step forward and uphold justice? If so, Id have to advise you to drop that thought, Song Yu said. I harbored such thoughts in my younger years too but thats simply the world we live in. Theres no changing it no matter what we do.


    I just thought he looked familiar, Fang Chen replied. Rest assured, Chief Song. I dont do things Im not confident about.


    Its not surprising that you find him familiar. The Immacte Poison Kings reputation isnt for show. He wouldnt have shown me any respect at all if not for Boss Yous strong n backing, Song Yu replied with a bitter sigh.


    Forget it, lets not talk about this anymore. Boss You arranged a distinguishedpartment room for us too. Lets head over.


    The distinguishedpartment rooms had a window that allowed them to overlook the auction hall. All in all, there were ten of such rooms.


    Many people had already gathered in the auction hall, and those who were acquainted greeted one another. Those who didnt know anyone settled down in their seats and patiently waited for the auction tomence.


    The average cultivation level in this auction hall was much higher than the cultivators who frequented Dragonback Lane. There were even eighth stage and ninth stage Ki Refinement cultivators.


    As for those who were at tenth stage Ki Refinement and above, they had all been ushered into the distinguishedpartment rooms.


    Fang Chen closed his eyes and feigned rest. His soul drifted to the neighboring room, where a tenth stage Ki Refinement cultivator was patiently waiting for the auction tomence.


    He proceeded to look at the other rooms, until he stumbled upon the Immacte Poison King.


    Little bastard, take his pill. The Immacte Poison King took out a green pill and tossed it by the side of the hunched figure.


    The hunched figure bent down with great difficulty to pick up the green pill and pop it into his mouth. His movements looked very stiff, and there was not the slightest emotion to be detected on his ugly face.


    Shortly after swallowing the pill, the hunched figures face warped in pain. The massive tumor on his back began leaking thick, green pus.


    The Immacte Poison King burst intoughter. He took out a clear bottle, and with a wave of his hand, the thick, green pus was drawn into the bottle.


    You might be young, but you have a hardy life. You have at least nurtured 500 grams of Dracovenom for me now, the Immacte Poison King snickered before downing the contents in the bottle.


    Fang Chen was horrified. <em>He drank the green pus?!</em>


    The Immacte Poison King looked intoxicated after drinking the green pus, and his aura slowly strengthened bit by bit.


    Dracovenom is incredible. Drinking a daily cup of it should bring me to eleventh stage Ki Refinement within the next three to five years. Haha, Foundation Establishment will soon be within my reach! The Immacte Poison Kingughed gleefully.


    Ahhhh! The hunched figure suddenly groaned while gesturing with his hands.


    You dumb mute, what are you groaning for? Remember that you were sold to me. Its your fortune that Im using you to nurture poison. You would have long died if I hadnt bought you, the Immacte Poison King sneered.


    The hunched figure looked at him, and his clear eyes slowly fogged up.


    Fang Chens soul trembled as he looked at the hunched figure. He finally understood where that sense of familiarity came from. Song Yu thought that he had found the Immacte Poison King familiar, but the one whom he had found familiar was instead the hunched figure.


    Not long ago, a Blood Spirit Cultist had killed a family of civilians in Great Xia, and a child was the sole survivor of that tragedy. However, that child had been made mute, making him unable tomunicate.


    Fang Chen had the child test his aptitude via the Spirit Gauging Bell, where he was deemed to have a cultivation talent of three tolls. It was not excellent, but it was not terrible either.


    He asked Elder Jinnan for a favor to take the child to the South Heaven Sect to cultivate, to which thetter epted.


    Had everything gone to n, the child should have been cultivating in the South Heaven Sect instead of bing a test subject here to breed lethal poison!


    Looking at the poisonous tumors covering the childs body, Fang Chen felt a pang in his heart.


    <em>Normal children of his age would have probably been chasing chickens and ying with dogs, or maybe acting coy to their parents. However, his family has been killed. </em>


    <em>Despite having survived the ordeal, what awaited him wasnt good days but greater suffering.</em>


    Fang Chen tore his eyes away from the child to look at the gleeful Immacte Poison King.


    Why do I feel a chill? The Immacte Poison King looked around with a frown. He turned to the hunched figure and roared, Are you secretly insulting me? Kneel at the corner of the room!


    The hunched figure trembled. He obediently headed over and kneeled at the corner.


    The Immacte Poison King sneered before ying with his braids again.


    Fang Chens soul returned to his body, and he opened his eyes. He mumbled under his breath, The South Heaven Sect, huh


    He had no idea how the child ended up in the hands of a malevolent cultivator instead of being in the South Heaven Sect. <em>I shall question Jinnan about this one day. </em>


    Most of the guests are present, Song Yu suddenly stood up and said. The auction should be starting soon.


    Fang Chen looked below, and the sight of another familiar figure made him raise his eyebrows.


    It had been a while since theyst met, but Li Huafeng looked different from before. He was dressed in a green daoist robe, and he was apanied by a seventh stage Ki Refinement middle-aged daoist.


    Chief Song, whats the background of that daoist? Fang Chen pointed to the middle-aged daoist as he asked.


    He is a Cloudless Monasterys cultivator, Song Yu nced over and replied. He then turned to Fang Chen and asked, Young friend, are you acquainted with the Cloudless Monastery? It has quite a reputation in the region. Rumor has it that its old abbot is at twelfth stage Ki Refinement, just a step short of reaching Foundation Establishment.


    I dont know him. Fang Chen shook his head.


    Minutester, Boss You appeared in the auction hall. He warmly greeted all of the cultivators as if he knew them.


    Song Yu remarked, Boss You has wider connections than me. Its lucky that the You n didnt scorn our Dragonback Lane, or else this ce will be much colder than it is.


    Boss You is from a formidable n? Fang Chen asked.


    He has a Foundation Establishment ancestor. Song Yu nodded. The You n is a cultivator n without a proper legacy, but its famous in the world of cultivation. They have businesses all around the world, so its not to be underestimated.


    <em>Foundation Establishment ancestor? </em>


    <em>No wonder hes able to organize an auction with hundreds of people. Its with such a backing that these people trust him to sell their goods or buy the things they need. </em>


    The first thing on our auction today is a cultivation method, Boss You said.


    A hugemotion ensued.

 Chapter 222: Talisman Drawing

    Chapter 222: Talisman Drawing


    The cultivators chattered among themselves with excited gleams in their eyes. Even some of the sect disciples were moved too.


    Boss You revealed a gleeful smile.


    What was the most valuable thing in the world of cultivation?


    It was neither pills nor artifacts. Rather, it was the very foundation of ones cultivation, ones cultivation method!


    The greatest impediment to unaffiliated cultivators reaching higher ground was their cultivation. Most unaffiliated cultivators reached no further than third stage Ki Refinement despite working hard their entire lives; this was not just due to their aptitude but theirck of a proper cultivation method too.


    Only major sects had aplete cultivation method legacy, but even so, it could only be up to a certain level. For instance, there were sects withplete Ki Refinement cultivation method, but their Foundation Establishment cultivation method remained imperfect.


    Boss You, you arent pulling our legs, are you?


    I hope you didnt make use all the way here just to disappoint us with some iplete cultivation method!


    Some of the eighth stage and ninth stage Ki Refinement cultivators spoke up.


    Boss You gleefully replied, Our old ancestor has verified the cultivation method. Theres no problem reaching twelfth stage Ki Refinement with it. Its aplete cultivation method!


    Anothermotion broke out. Many of the cultivators faces reddened, and they looked at Boss You with excited looks.


    This was a rare fortuitous encounter for them!


    In the distinguishedpartments, Song Yu clenched his fists as he stared intently at Boss You, That old rascal didnt let me in on it beforehand!


    Chief Song, cultivation methods are a sects precious legacy. Can those really be sold? Wont the secte after them? Fang Chen asked.


    Song Yu seemed to have something on his mind, so he distractedly replied, Cultivation methods sold in auctions most likely belong to sects that have gone extinct. Even if they still have disciples around, its unlikely that theyll pose a threat to the You n.


    That being said, theres no denying that there could beplications, which is why Boss You is selling it at our Dragonback Lane. This ce is much more discreet.


    At this point, Song Yu turned to Fang Chen and said apologetically, Little brother, I have urgent matters to attend to, so I might need to leave now


    Be my guest. Fang Chen nodded.


    Song Yu anxiously stood up and left.


    After Song Yu left, Fang Chen took out a brush and ground the Nine Tribtions Cinnabar. Then, he slowlyy his brush on the Thunderjolt Wood Talisman Paper.


    Drawing a high-grade talisman was extremely demanding on ones skill. Every stroke had to be precisely on point. It was impossible to pull off without a solid foundation. On top of that, a sharp control of ones spirit ki was necessary too.


    Fang Chen had to admit that the Celestial Bluestone Brush did help to keep his spirit ki stable.


    His goal was to draw a high-grade or even pinnacle Purple Lightning Talisman.


    To his astonishment, as soon as his brush fell on the talisman paper, he lost 20% of his spirit ki, presumably because the Nine Tribtions Cinnabar and the Thunderjolt Wood Talisman Paper were no ordinary materials.


    Meanwhile, the auction had already started. It was already hyping up right from the first item.


    In a matter of moments, the cultivation method had been bidded up to 3300 low-grade ki stones.


    None of the cultivators present had the means to fork out so many ki stones by themselves, so they secretly made deals with others to acquire the cultivation method and study it together.


    Several figures had joined the Immacte Poison Kings distinguished chamber. They were renowned unaffiliated cultivators in the vicinity, and none of them were any weaker than the Immacte Poison King.


    We have to obtain the cultivation method by hook or by crook. We might never stumble upon such an opportunity ever again, the Immacte Poison King said.


    The cultivators exchanged looks. One of them gritted their teeth and said, Ill sell all my artifacts. I should be able to raise 600 low-grade ki stones.


    Ill fork out another 800.


    700 on my side.


    In the end, they were able toe up with around 4000 low-grade ki stones.


    The Pristine Poison King slowly nodded and said, If we sessfully obtain the cultivation method, those who forked out less now willpensate those who paid moreter on.


    Of course.


    The two cultivators who paid the least immediately nodded.


    3500 low-grade ki stones. Any other bids? Boss You announced.


    There were only two parties left in the race. One was a group of disciples from different sects, and the other was the Pristine Poison Kings group.


    4000, the Pristine Poison Kings voice echoed throughout the auction hall.


    Countless cultivators raised their heads and looked toward the Pristine Poison Kings distinguished chamber. Shock and envy could be seen in their eyes. They knew that there was no chance for them to acquire this cultivation method anymore.


    Pristine Poison King, why did you bid 4000 straight away?! the white-robed cultivator standing behind the Pristine Poison King voiced his dissatisfaction.


    The Pristine Poison King nced at him and coldly replied, Do you think we can win the auction if we just raise the bid by a hundred each time?


    The white-robed cultivator couldnt refute that. He could only pray that the other party wouldnt further raise the price.


    Unfortunately,dy luck wasnt on their side.


    4200 low-grade ki stones, the other party bidded.


    The Pristine Poison Kings face turned livid. He angrily stood up and paced around the room. The unaffiliated cultivators he had partnered with didnt look good either.


    They didnt have more ki stones to fork out anymore.


    Damn it! Dont those sect disciples already have their own cultivation methods? Why are they fighting with us unaffiliated cultivators? I should poison them to death! the Pristine Poison King angrily spat.


    The other cultivators anxiously dissuaded him, Dont be reckless, Poison King. Well have much to suffer for if we offend those sect disciples!


    Do you think I fear them? The Pristine Poison King red at the others.


    These unaffiliated cultivators were fearful of his poison, so they could only brush it off with a sheepishugh.


    Since we dont have enough ki stones to acquire the cultivation method, why dont we join hands to snatch the cultivation method from their hands once theyre out of Dragonback Lane? the Pristine Poison King asked with narrowed eyes.


    The other cultivators exchanged looks. They were moved.


    It was one thing if it was any other treasure, but this was aplete Ki Refinement cultivation method! They were willing to offend a couple of sects for it. At most, they would just temporarily go into hiding after the deed is done.


    Since there is no higher bid, my congrattions to the winner! Boss You dered with a smile.


    The middle-aged man from the Cloudless Monastery was amid the group.


    As they were exchanging the goods, Li Huafeng discreetly asked, Senior Wei, I thought our Cloudless Monastery has itsplete Ki Refinement cultivation method


    The middle-aged man nced at Li Huafeng and replied, Junior Li, even our Cloudless Monasterys Ki Refinement cultivation method has its shorings too. Having another Ki Refinement cultivation method to cross-reference may spare us from detours. Our master knows about todays auction too, and he told me to bring you here to expand your horizon.


    I see. Li Huafeng widened his eyes in realization.


    He looked around, but he didnt see the person in his mind. Thus, he sighed in relief.


    He was worried that he might meet Fang Chen here, but it seemed like he was thinking too much into it. The world of cultivation was huge; what were the odds of such a coincidence?

 Chapter 223: Completion of Talisman

    Chapter 223: Completion of Talisman


    By the time the first item was auctioned out, Fang Chen had onlypleted a tenth of his Purple Lightning Talisman. Naturally, he couldnt be bothered with what was happening there.


    The Purple Lightning Talisman was already crackling with lightning despite only being a tenthplete. The sheer energy in it wouldnt pale inparison to even apleted mid-grade Purple Lightning Talisman.


    It was a good thing that Fang Chen had spirit ki to squander, so he could envelop the area around him with a spirit ki barrier while drawing the talisman to avoid rming the cultivators outside.


    Time slowly ticked by.


    The auction continued, but Fang Chen remained focused on his talisman.


    Eventually, Fang Chen finally finished up hisst stroke. Aplete Purple Lightning Talisman was now sitting in front of him. Lightning energy continuously surged from the surroundings into the talisman. A terrifying aura sought to ripple outward, but Fang Chen firmly suppressed it with his spirit ki.


    High-grade? Or pinnacle?


    Fang Chen examined the Purple Lightning Talisman before him, uncertain about its grade. Regardless, he was certain that it had to be high-grade at the minimum. Its aura was much stronger than a mid-grade Purple Lightning Talisman.


    In truth, he had already depleted his spirit ki halfway through the drawing, but fortunately, his special constitution allowed him to swiftly recover his spirit ki and continue the drawing. If not for that, his Purple Lightning Talisman would have been busted.


    This showed that a normal eighth stage Ki Refinement cultivator wouldnt have been able to draw a talisman of this caliber!


    Everyone, I hereby conclude the auction. Im grateful that you traveled all the way here to join my humble event. If you are in no rush to leave, please do stay behind to exchange insights, Boss You announced.


    Fang Chen stowed away his Purple Lightning Talisman, got up, and left the room.


    On the way, he bumped into the Pristine Poison King. He didnt nce at thetter, and the two of them passed each other by.


    You there, stop, the Pristine Poison King suddenly turned around to look at Fang Chen.


    Yes? Fang Chen stopped and turned around.


    It was only now that the little hunchback saw Fang Chen. His eyes gleamed, but the light slowly vanished after.


    You look unfamiliar. Are you a sect disciple? the Pristine Poison King asked. Which sect are you from? I might be acquainted with your sect elders.


    I dont think my sect elders know you, Fang Chen replied before leaving.


    The Pristine Poison King didnt lose his temper despite Fang Chens rudeness. Instead, he murmured contemtively, His body looks like top-grade material for nurturing poison. Little bastard, should I have him rece you after you die?


    The little hunchback shuddered.


    The Pristine Poison King burst intoughter, thinking that the little hunchback feared death. Little did he know what the little hunchback truly feared


    Fang Chen met a delighted Song Yu at the doorway.


    Brother, I was just about to look for you! Song Yu said merrily.


    Chief Song, did something good happen? Fang Chen asked.


    It was obvious that Song Yu participated in the cultivation method auction too, albeit not on the surface. From the looks of it, it would appear that he had obtained a copy of it.


    What else? The auction went well, and it brought a lot of ie for our Dragonback Lane, Song Yu replied with augh.


    Fang Chen chuckled. Allow me to congratte you then, Chief Song. I have stayed here for quite some time. I should take my leave now.


    Song Yu wanted to retain Fang Chen, but he held his tongue seeing that Fang Chen had made up his mind.


    Senior Wei, why do we have to be so careful? We arent the only ones who participated in the purchase of the cultivation method.


    Li Huafeng noticed how careful the middle-aged cultivator was, looking back from time to time to check if there was anyone following him. That left him worried.


    This is another thing our master wishes to teach you. Now that you are walking on this path, you need to be constantly on your guard, lest you die in vain. The middle-aged man heaved a sigh of relief upon seeing that there was no one behind him.


    He turned to Li Huafeng and exined, Birds die for food. Humans die for wealth. This cultivation manual is a treasure that others will put their lives on the line for. If we let our guard down, we might just die before knowing it.


    Do those unaffiliated cultivators dare to make a move on our Cloudless Monastery? Li Huafeng asked with a frown.


    He had gained a deeper understanding of the world of cultivation in recent days. While the Cloudless Monastery was not on the same level as the South Heaven Sect and the Beast Spirit Valley, it would still be a formidable power if ced in Infernoze.


    It was a second-tier power at the very least.


    The reverend of the Cloudless Monastery was a twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator, and he was just a Foundation Establishment Pill away from making a breakthrough.


    Li Huafeng had witnessed the means of a twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator.


    Experts of that caliber could even toy with a wave of over 300 meters tall. That was truly the means of an immortal!


    He didnt think that there were many experts on par with the Cloudless Monasterys reverend.


    The middle-aged man shook his head. Dont think that those unaffiliated cultivators wouldnt dare to make a move on us just because our master is a twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator. They wont hesitate to make a move if the reward is tempting enough.


    Li Huafeng nodded. That further built his impression of how cultivators were.


    They hesitated to interfere in secr affairs because they were worried about karma. They hesitated to make a move because they feared for their lives. However, if there were substantial rewards on the line, they would be fearless and vicious!


    Wei Changqing, I thought you would be cultivating hard in the Cloudless Monastery. When did you be a teacher? That fellow must be a talented one for you to keep him by your side, a mocking voice echoed from the front.


    The middle-aged mans body stiffened. He red at the figure who had just appeared in front of him with fearful eyes.


    Pristine Poison King.


    Its him Li Huafengs face darkened.


    He had asked about the Pristine Poison Kings background earlier in the auction hall too, and learning that the other party was a poison expert and had once even pushed back a Foundation Establishment cultivator filled him with fear.


    It was obvious why the Pristine Poison King had appeared before him.


    Tell me, whats that fellows background? the Pristine Poison King pointed to Li Huafeng as he asked.


    The middle-aged mans face darkened. Hes my masters personal disciple. My master has high hopes for him, which was why he had me bring him around to teach him.


    Oh? The Pristine Poison King frowned. The Cloudless Monasterys reverend has high hopes for him? Whats his aptitude?


    My master has ordered me to not carelessly reveal my juniors aptitude. All you need to know is that my master has high hopes for him, the middle-aged man replied.


    Hahaha! Do you think thatll intimidate me? The Pristine Poison King burst intoughter.


    The middle-aged mans face darkened. He asked with a deeper voice, What do you want? Dont forget that Im at tenth stage Ki Refinement too. Im no weaker than you.


    What if we join in too?


    Eight more people suddenly appeared. They were either at ninth stage or tenth stage Ki Refinement.


    The middle-aged mans face paled. He gritted his teeth and got to the point, You want the cultivation method, right? Ill let you copy it.


    The crowd was surprised to see how decisive he was.


    However, the Pristine Poison King sneered, Are you really nning to let him live? We have offended him today. If you dont want the Cloudless Monastery to chase you to the ends of the world, well have to crush them to dust today. We mustnt leave any evidence behind.


    Both the middle-aged man and Li Huafengs face turned awful.

 Chapter 224: Rebellious

    Chapter 224: Rebellious


    The Pristine Poison Kings words enlightened the others. Murderous intent red from them.


    Even if you silence me today, my master will investigate this matter and figure out who the culprits are. Are you sure you want to go all the way? the middle-aged man asked.


    Lets quickly end it, the Pristine Poison King said. Hes dragging for time. That old man might be on his way to fetch them.


    All the cultivators quickly brought out their weapons to attack the duo.


    The middle-aged man roared, and a peach blossom wooden sword whizzed out of his sleeves to fend against the attacks. Meanwhile, he tried to search for an opening for him and Li Huafeng to escape.


    Interesting. Spare thatds life. He must be decently talented, else the Cloudless Monastery wouldnt have such high hopes for him, the Pristine Poison King said.


    He was referring to Li Huafeng.


    Cultivators were selfish. The fact that the middle-aged man was still protecting Li Huafeng despite being in a spot spoke a lot.


    Junior, it might be the end for us today, the middle-aged man said in despair.


    The cultivators attacking him were all either ninth stage or tenth stage Ki Refinement. While they were only unaffiliated cultivators, he still wouldntst long against them.


    Pristine Poison King, dont just sit around and watch! one of the unaffiliated cultivators howled in dissatisfaction.


    The Pristine Poison King flicked his finger, and a green light fell on the middle-aged mans ki barrier. The ki barrier immediately began to corrode.


    All of the unaffiliated cultivators attacking the middle-aged man anxiously backed away, not wanting toe into contact with the poison.


    Ah!!


    The middle-aged man howled. The green poison aura had seeped into his body and was swiftly spreading all over.


    Li Huafeng hurriedly backed away while eyeing this sight in horror.


    Junior, run away


    The middle-aged man slowly fell to his knees. By the time he raised his head once more, the flesh and blood on his face had already corroded, revealing the bones beneath.


    Li Huafeng anxiously tried to flee, but one of the cultivators kicked him back. His inner ki was futile against their spirit ki.


    Dont kill me! Im willing to ve away for you. It hasnt been long since I joined the Cloudless Monastery, and I havent even forged my immortal vein! Li Huafeng kneeled on the floor and kowtowed to the Pristine Poison King. I have a cultivation aptitude of seven tolls. Spare me, and Ill be useful to you!


    The middle-aged man was taken aback. Disappointment was reflected in his unmelted eyes.


    <em>My master has judged wrongly this time around. My junior is actually a spineless coward </em>


    A cultivation aptitude of seven tolls?! No wonder! Hahaha! The Pristine Poison Kings eyes lit up before bursting intoughter. No wonder that old man from the Cloudless Monastery took you in as his disciple. No wonder that fellow is determined to save you even at the expense of his life! Its rare for anyone to have talent like yours.


    The unaffiliated cultivators were conflicted. Some were envious. Some were skeptical. Some were jealous.


    Most of their cultivation aptitude was two tolls or three tolls, and by the time they became a cultivator, they were already past the golden cultivation age. Most sects wouldnt even spare a nce at them.


    If they had a cultivation aptitude of seven tolls, they might have already reached twelfth stage Ki Refinement or even Foundation Establishment by now.


    Lad, Ill take you in as my disciple if you arent lying. You shall learn poison arts with me. However, youll have to earn my trust first End him yourself," the Pristine Poison King pointed at the middle-aged man as he said.


    Li Huafeng charged at the middle-aged man and furiously stabbed his dagger into thetters body. Im sorry, senior But I want to live!!!


    Pu pu pu!


    Blood sttered everywhere. The middle-aged man stared intently at Li Huafeng as life slowly receded from his eyes.


    The middle-aged man was already dead, but Li Huafeng continued to stab him. He stabbed over a hundred times before fearfully turning to the Pristine Poison King.


    Elder, I have already done what you told me to. Please take me in as your disciple. Im willing to devote my life to serving you!


    This fellow


    The cultivators exchanged fearful looks.


    If the Pristine Poison King took thatd in as his disciple, there would likely be another terrifying malevolent cultivator in decades toe.


    Of course. The Pristine Poison King nodded with a smile. Hand over the cultivation method you purchased from the auction.


    Yes, master! Li Huafeng quickly grabbed a manual from the middle-aged mans body before running over to the Pristine Poison King.


    Tak tak tak.


    The unaffiliated cultivators tensed up. Li Huafengs footsteps stopped too.


    All of them looked in the same direction. A person with closed eyes emerged from the forest, looking as if he hadnt seen the tragedy that had just unfolded.


    Fang Chen! Li Huafeng eximed. His face warped in savagery. Elder, that person is a cultivator too. You mustnt let him walk out of here alive. You have to silence him!


    The Pristine Poison King frowned.


    Li Huafengs voice. Fang Chen suddenly chuckled. He turned to Li Huafeng and said, What a coincidence meeting you here, Li Huafeng. What did you say about silencing me?


    Stop feigning ignorance. Given your temperament, theres no way you would appear here by coincidence. You tried to sever my fate as a cultivator, but I still joined the Cloudless Monastery. Now, a renowned elder even intends to take me in as his disciple!


    Li Huafengs eyes zed with hatred.


    Is that so? Fang Chenughed. Which one is the elder who intends to take you in?


    Lad, we met in Dragonback Lane. The Pristine Poison King narrowed his eyes. Did you stumble onto us by luck, or were you following us?


    Ah, its the Pristine Poison King. Pardon my discourtesy. Fang Chen sped his fist.


    The other unaffiliated cultivators were unsure what to make of the situation. One turned to the Pristine Poison King and asked, Poison King, is he your acquaintance? Do we need to silence him?


    Pu!


    That cultivator was sent flying right after saying those words. He crashed heavily on the ground, with a bloodied hole in his temple. Not even the spirit ki that had enveloped his body could stop this attack.


    In the sky, a little sword floated around, awaiting Fang Chens next order.


    The remaining unaffiliated cultivator gasped. They stared at Fang Chen in disbelief.


    The cultivator who was just killed was at tenth stage Ki Refinement, yet his defense was instantaneously breached, and he couldnt react at all!


    There are too many people here. Its inconvenient to talk like that, Fang Chen murmured as if talking to himself.


    A silver light shed across the ce. Cultivator after cultivator copsed helplessly. The final surviving cultivator barely saw the culprit right before the moment of his death.


    A flying sword? A sword cultivator?!


    Then, he died.


    A sword cultivator?!


    Even the Pristine Poison King, who was said to be domineering and had sessfully pushed back a Foundation Establishment cultivator, felt goosebumps upon hearing the words sword cultivator.


    He looked at the corpses grimly before discreetly backing away.


    Meanwhile, Li Huafeng was frozen in ce like a statue.

 Chapter 225: You Told Me to Do It

    Chapter 225: You Told Me to Do It


    Pristine Poison King, why are you leaving? Fang Chen suddenly said.


    The Pristine Poison King froze up. He turned around and red at Fang Chen, Lad, theres no grudge between us. You arent going to stand up for that Cloudless Monasterys daoist, right?


    The little hunchback had been staring at Fang Chen since his appearance. He could hardly maintain hisposure when he saw how easily Fang Chen killed all those cultivators.


    He wanted to somehow ry to Fang Chen who he was, but he couldnt make a move because the Pristine Poison King was right beside him. He was afraid that Fang Chen would kill him too.


    Fear and excitement gripped his mind, causing his face to warp.


    I wouldnt stand up for someone I dont know, but I have heard about the Pristine Poison Kings unparalleled poison art that severely wounded even a Foundation Establishment cultivator. Id like to see if your poison art is more formidable than my sword, Fang Chen said.


    The Pristine Sword King squeezed out a strained smile. Its a misunderstanding. Thats merely a rumor. That Foundation Establishment cultivator was already severely wounded by the time I met him.


    His eyes remained fixated on the little sword as the words sword cultivator reverberated in his mind.


    <em>Damn it! How did I stumble onto this lunatic </em>The Pristine Poison King cursed.


    He had never met a real sword cultivator before, but he had been around long enough to hear about them. Those people were madmen, bloodthirsty, tenacious, and vindictive.


    He thought that Fang Chen wanted to fight him because of the rumors, so he decided to dampen thetters fighting will through this.


    The Foundation Establishment cultivator was wounded before the fight? Fang Chen sighed in disappointment.


    Indeed. You have found the wrong person to spar with. I am a poison user; Im not that adept at direct confrontations, the Pristine Poison King added.


    I dont care. Lets spar since youre already here, Fang Chen said.


    You!


    The Pristine Poison King was infuriated. He had already taken a step back, but the other party continued to bite onto him, insisting on having a spar.


    Anger surged in him, and his face turned livid. All of a sudden, he said with augh, Very well. Since you wish to spar, may I know how you intend to go about it?


    While he was speaking, he discreetly scattered his colorless and scentless poison powder toward Fang Chen with his spirit ki.


    The next second, his spirit ki jolted. It was as if the poison powder hade to life; it charged at him as if a furious python!


    Boom!


    A cloud of dust veiled the surroundings.


    When everything finally settled, Li Huafeng was shocked to see a gorge in front of him. It was several meters wide, and it stretched on for at least three hundred meters!


    On top of that, the surrounding earth had turned dark green. It was a sign that it had been afflicted with lethal poison.


    Is that all? The Pristine Poison King scanned the surroundings before bursting intoughter. Hahaha! I guess thats all sword cultivators amount to!


    Congrattions, master! Li Huafeng was overjoyed too.


    <em>Fang Chen is finally dead!</em>


    While the Pristine Poison King was feeling gleeful, he suddenly noticed that the little bastard with him was gone. That made him frown. He was so focused on dealing with Fang Chen that he hadnt realized the movements around him.


    Trying to escape, little bastard? Do you think you can escape? the Pristine Poison King hissed.


    Meanwhile, Fang Chen patted the little hunchbacks head and said, Wait here for me, and dont make a noise.


    The little hunchback nodded.


    Fang Chen walked out of the forest and calmly looked at the Pristine Sword King, saying, Surely thats not all your means amount to? What else do you have? Employ them all.


    You arent dead?!


    The Pristine Sword King gasped in shock, but his shock was feigned.


    He raised his hand once more, and a massive python identical to the one from before dove out of the ground to bite Fang Chen. It turned out that he didnt dissipate the venomous python he had manifested at all. Rather, he had it dive into the ground in preparation for a follow-up attack.


    Fang Chen chose not to dodge this time around. He channeled his spirit ki into his little sword, and with a silver sh of light, the massive python was instantaneously reduced to dust.


    The pythons lethal poison dispersed upon being in. They corroded Fang Chens spirit ki barrier, and the surrounding grass and trees all visibly withered and melted uponing into contact.


    In contrast, the little sword remained pristine despite being enveloped in lethal poison. It didnt hinder it in the least.


    My poison art cant corrode it?!


    The Pristine Poison King was stunned. He was even more convinced that Fang Chen was a sword cultivator now. What he had just witnessed was likely the legendary unraveling all means through swordsmanship.


    Losing all his fighting will, he morphed into a green light and darted into the forest.


    Unfortunately, he was nowhere as fast as the little sword.


    The moment he tried to flee into the forest, the little sword had already shredded his spirit ki barrier into shreds. He felt a chill behind him before his eyes went dark.


    Hungry, hungry!


    Little sword flew back and cried in distress.


    Fang Chen chuckled. It was time to collect the spoils of war.


    The deceased cultivators had at least an artifact on them each, and these were all fed to little sword. Aside from that, Fang Chen also found a couple of unidentified pills and fifty low-grade ki stones.


    <em>These unaffiliated cultivators are too poor. Even the Pristine Poison King doesnt have a storage ring. </em>


    Li Huafengy by the corner of the battlefield, staring at his legs in horror. He had fled toote, such that his legs had been afflicted with the lethal poison. The poison was swiftly creeping up his body.


    S-save me! He looked at Fang Chen in desperation.


    Fang Chen walked up to Li Huafeng, examined his situation, and shook his head. Im not a poison user, so I cant cure you. The person who can cure you is already dead.


    Im begging you! I know I have done you wrong. As long as I can live, I wont go against you anymore! Li Huafeng desperately begged.


    Theres only one way for you to surviveamputate your legs, Fang Chen said. You should do it before the poison reaches your organs, else therell really be no saving you.


    Li Huafeng was stupefied. <em>Amputate my legs? That would make me a cripple!</em>


    Have you thought things through? Fang Chen asked.


    Li Huafeng gritted his teeth before replying, Imperial Duke Fang, please amputate my legs.


    You asked for it yourself. Fang Chen nodded.


    There was a silver sh of light, and Li Huafengs legs were amputated.


    Li Huafeng howled in pain. He anxiously tapped a few key acupoints to stop his <em>three</em> legs from bleeding further. Then, he shot Fang Chen a venomous re and roared, Youre vicious!


    Ah, I identally cut a bit too high, but at least you survived, Fang Chen said. He paused for a second before adding, I have to return to Great Xia now. May we meet again if fate permits.


    Fang Chen returned to the forest and left together with the little hunchback.


    Li Huafeng red at Fang Chens departing silhouette before letting out a furious roar.


    Having lost his legs and sustained severe injuries, Li Huafeng couldnt leave this ce right away. He could only focus on his recuperation now and make further ns when he was feeling better.


    Dayster, he saw an old daoist slowly walking over. Li Huafeng was delighted to see thetter. Master!

 Chapter 226: Entering the Palace

    Chapter 226: Entering the Pce


    The old daoist first eyed the surroundings beforeying his gaze on Li Huafeng. He let out a sigh and asked, Who did this? Wheres your senior?


    Its the Pristine Poison King and Great Xias Fang Chen! Li Huafeng replied with clenched jaws. They are the ones who killed senior. My legs were amputated by Fang Chen!


    Great Xia? Thats where you were born?


    The old daoist frowned. He nced at the middle-aged mans corpse not too far away before slowly heading over to take a closer look.


    Master, am I no longer able to cultivate now that I have lost my legs? Li Huafeng was worried.


    The old daoist first inspected the middle-aged mans corpse before turning back to Li Huafeng. You still can cultivate without your legs, but itll be troublesome.


    Thats wonderful! Li Huafengs eyes lit up.


    He might be a cripple now, but his future was still bright if he could still cultivate.


    Wheres the Pristine Poison King? Did he flee after killing your senior and these people? the old daoist asked with a frown. Wheres the cultivation method you bought?


    Master, Fang Chen killed the Pristine Poison King and took the cultivation method with him. Please chase after Fang Chen and kill him. I fear he might be a threat to our Cloudless Monastery if left be! Li Huafeng eximed. The grudge between him and me is too deep.


    Was your senior killed by the Pristine Poison King or Fang Chen? the old daoist asked with a frown.


    They were both involved! Li Huafeng replied without any hesitation.


    But these wounds were left by a dagger. The incisions fit the dagger you carry. The old daoist waved his hand, and a dagger flew into his grasp.


    Li Huafengs face stiffened up. They stole my dagger


    The old daoist imitated a crude stabbing action. Youre telling me that they stole your dagger and stabbed your senior to death like that? A cultivator did that?


    Li Huafeng was speechless.


    The old daoist sighed. When I found you while passing by Great Xia, I thought that I could nurture you to be another expert of our Cloudless Monastery. I never thought that you would be so vicious as to kill your own senior.


    Master, its not what you imagine it to be. I am innocent Li Huafeng tried to exin himself.


    He believed that this seven tolls cultivation aptitude could convince his master to overlook this matter. The Cloudless Monastery had already lost its eldest disciple, after all. He didnt think that his master would want to lose another talented disciple.


    Ill look for Fang Chen. Hes not to be underestimated if he killed the Pristine Poison King, but Ill have means to deal with him as long as he hasnt reached Foundation Establishment. As for you you killed your fellow sect member and even tried to deceive me. You cant be spared, but I concede that you do possess outstanding cultivation talent. I can at least use you as a medicine rat. Ill spare you for the time being.


    The old daoist snorted. Bring him back.


    Yes, master.


    A few younger daoists walked forward and carried Li Huafeng off.


    <em>Medicine rat?! </em>Li Huafeng was horrified. Master, I was wrong! Master!


    The old daoist coldly turned around and left, not paying him any heed.


    The capital of Great Xia, the Fang Manor.


    This manor still belonged to the Fang n even though they had migrated to the south. Elites from the Valiant Defenders had been assigned to guard the manor, so no one dared to intrude.


    Fang Chen was the one who supported the new emperor to the throne, and themander of the Valiant Defenders, Huang Sihai, used to be one of his Four Dragon Generals. The Fifth King and Minister Jiang were on close terms with the Fang n too.


    The immortals recent visit to take in disciples only further cemented Fang Chens standing in Great Xia.


    The popce would hesitate to kill even a rat that ran out of the Fang Manor!


    Tie Ma looked at the boxes of martial arts manuals and eximed in awe, Did you and the young master plunder Chillwater?


    Xu Ge gleefully replied, Theres no need for us to plunder. You see those Nightmare Knights? Their leader is none other than the Ji Lengxing from the Ji ns main lineage. He seems to be Ji Lengyues little brother. They offered these martial arts manuals to us on their own ord.


    Tie Ma eyed Ji Lengxing in shock.


    Ah, I should also let you know Ive reached Ki Manifestation, Xu Ge added.


    Tie Ma looked at Xu Ge andughed. I have also reached Ki Manifestation.


    Impossible! Xu Ge was stunned.


    My talent is above yours. I reached Ki Control earlier than you, Tie Ma pointed out.


    Mister Zhao, may I pay a visit to Ji Lengyue? Ji Lengxing suddenly walked up to Zhao Yan and respectfully asked.


    Youll have to wait for the young master to return and ask for his permission, Zhao Yan replied. A secondter, he turned to the doorway and added, The young master has returned.


    The crowd looked at the entrance, ready to bow to Fang Chen, when they were startled by the monster he was carrying.


    Theres no need to be afraid. Hes Liu Mu, the child who was supposed to be taken in by the South Heaven Sect, Fang Chen said.


    Liu Mu felt unconfident. He lowered his head and tensed up his muscles, trying his best to stop the tumors on his back from seeping out green poison.


    Its him?! Xu Ge blurted out in shock. I thought he was brought to the South Heaven Sect. How did he end up like that?!


    Tie Ma had a grim look too. He knew something must have happened in between.


    Zhao Yan wasnt bothered by Liu Mus stench. He walked up to Liu Mu to examine his tumor, but thetter hurriedly backed away out of fear.


    AHHHH


    Taken aback, Zhao Yan looked at Fang Chen.


    His body is being used as a breeding ground for lethal poison. You might lose your life if youe into contact with it. Only spirit ki can slow the corrosion of the poison, Fang Chen said.


    What a pitiful child. Zhao Yan sighed. Young master, what kind of person would do this to a child? Is it the so-called South Heaven Sects doing?


    Its the doing of a malevolent cultivator, but its dubious how he fell into the hands of a malevolent cultivator when he should have been on his way to the South Heaven Sect. I n to make a trip to the South Heaven Sect to investigate this, Fang Chen said.


    Is there any way to remove his tumors? Zhao Yan asked.


    Currently not. Fang Chen shook his head.


    The crowd sighed. There was nothing they could do if even Fang Chen was helpless.


    Take these martial arts manuals and follow me to the imperial pce, Fang Chen eyed the boxes and ordered.


    In Great Xias imperial pce, the young emperor, Xia Yuan, and his officials were gathered in the Pce of Great Peace.


    Xia Yuans previous personal maid, Xiang Zhen, had be the first female official in the imperial pce, and Fang Chen permitted her to remain by Xia Yuans side to serve him.


    Xiang Zhen noticed Xia Yuans impatience and discreetly reminded him, Your Majesty, youre with your officials. You should disy more maturity.


    I know. Xia Yuan nodded as he tried his best to look like an adult.


    Just then, a eunuch loudly announced, Xia Imperial Duke is here!


    The officials looked at the entrance. Li Guozhu looked slightly ufortable, but he quickly concealed it with his usual face.


    Fang Chen walked into the hall and greeted Xia Yuan with a sped fist, Fang Chen pays respect to Your Majesty.

 Chapter 227: Old Daoist

    Chapter 227: Old Daoist


    Imperial Duke Fang! Xia Yuan stood up with an excited look.


    If not for the person before him, he might still be living a life where he was bullied by little eunuchs. He would have never gotten a chance to sit on the throne and be the ruler of the country.


    Imperial Duke Fang. The other officials sped their fists and bowed.


    Fang Chen had an unshakable position in Great Xia now, such that he couldnt be treated by normal terms. If he ordered to change the prime minister or even the emperor, it was unlikely that anyone in the imperial court would dare oppose him.


    Hm? Whats so smelly?


    The officials nearer to the door suddenly frowned, then they saw the peculiar-looking Liu Mu and gasped.


    Liu Mu closely followed Fang Chen. His head was lowered, not daring to look at his surroundings. He was too unconfident. Each time he saw those eyes of disgust, he felt like a dagger had cut his heart.


    Your Majesty, have you been well? Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    Yes, I have been well, Xia Yuan hurriedly replied.


    Thats good to hear. Fang Chen nodded.


    He ordered Ji Lengxing and the Nightmare Knights to carry the boxes in.


    The officials eyed the Nightmare Knights. They had received news about it from the moment they entered the capital, and they wondered about what Fang Chen did in Chillwater that the Nightmare Knights actually apanied him back.


    In these boxes are the martial arts foundation Chillwater has built up over the centuries, Fang Chen said.


    Ah!


    The crowd gasped in shock.


    Imperial Duke Fang, is that for real? the Fifth King blurted out.


    Minister of Justice Jiang Yushu walked out of the formation and slowly approached the boxes. He first nced at Fang Chen, and it was only when thetter nodded that he opened one of the boxes.


    The box was filled with martial arts manuals.


    Its indeed Chillwaters martial arts manual. Jiang Yushu slowly nodded.


    The crowd was excited. There were more than ten boxes in total; Fang Chen had practically plundered all of Chillwaters martial arts legacies!


    This is wonderful! With this, our Great Xias national might will shoot right up! Tao Mingsheng and the others were overjoyed.


    The officials could already imagine what kind of changes these martial arts manuals could bring to Great Xia. Some of their faces flushed red, and some even started to cry.


    Imperial Duke Fang, is the Ji n fine with this? Jiang Yushu eyed Ji Lengxing.


    Please be assured. My grandfather has made a trade with Imperial Duke Fang, so these martial arts manuals belong to you Ah, my grandfather is now Chillwaters emperor. The Han n has stepped down, Ji Lengxing politely reported with a sped fist.


    <em>The Han n has stepped down?!</em>


    <em>The Ji n has taken over the throne?!</em>


    The crowd exchanged shocked looks before turning to Fang Chen. They knew that he must have yed a part in this change!


    <em>He single-handedly changed Chillwaters emperor! What domineering means!</em>


    I n to have Zhao Yan and the others copy the martial arts manuals, then the imperial pce will establish an Imperial Library to store them, Fang Chen said. Those who are loyal to Great Xia and possess outstanding talent, with the permission of the emperor, will be allowed to enter the Imperial Library and select martial arts manuals. Yearster, well select a couple of them to disseminate in the pugilistic world.


    Imperial Duke Fang, the martial arts of the pugilistic world exploit their martial prowess for their own greed. If these martial arts manuals flow into the pugilistic world Tao Mingsheng bucked up his courage to speak up. I fear it might endanger our Great Xia.


    A few officials nodded in agreement, including the militarymanders.


    These militarymanders might have been from the pugilistic world, but having risen to their current height, what they saw now was different from the other martial artists. There was more to just their own interests in the world.


    Heroes emerge from themon folk. If we permit only officials and soldiers to ess these martial arts manuals, we wont be able to catch up with Chillwater even within a hundred years time, Fang Chen said. I have already given you years of headstart over the pugilistic world, and that should be enough. Ill distribute the martial arts manuals to the sects once I think the time is ripe.


    The crowd nodded. They couldnt refute it anymore since Fang Chen had made up his mind.


    Zhao Yan, Xu Ge, Tie Ma, you will be in charge of copying the books, Fang Chen ordered.


    Yes, young master, Tie Ma and Zhao Yan replied.


    Xu Ge was startled. Young master, me too?


    Fang Chen nced at him.


    Xu Ge looked indignant. I have barely held a brush more than a few times in my life


    Then learn, Fang Chen said.


    Ignoring Xu Ge, Fang Chen waved at Xia Yuan and said, Itll take some time for them to copy the martial arts manual. Why dont you take a walk with me in the imperial garden?


    Yes! Xia Yuan hurriedly nodded.


    In the imperial garden, Fang Chen and Xia Yuan walking together made quite a peculiar sight.


    Fang Chen was escorted by the Nightmare Knights, whereas Xia Yuan had the Valiant Defenders. These two vastly different forces were now walking together


    Huang Sihai nced at Ji Lengxing and grinned. Youre at Earth Profound realm?


    Yes, I am. Ji Lengxing nodded.


    Chillwaters martial arts foundation is formidable. Youre so young, but youre already at Earth Profound realm, Huang Sihai said.


    Youre one of the Dragon Generals serving Immortal Fang. Your future will only be brighter than mine, Ji Lengxing replied with a tinge of envy.


    The Ji n had gathered andpiled information about Fang Chen following Ji Lengyues capture, so Ji Lengxing naturally knew about Huang Sihai.


    Meanwhile, Xia Yuan couldnt help but nce at Liu Mu every now and then. There was no disgust in his eyes, just curiosity, but he dared not to voice his thoughts aloud.


    Ask whats on your mind. You dont have to be so careful as an emperor, Fang Chen said.


    Xia Yuan smiled sheepishly at Fang Chen before turning to Liu Mu. Imperial Duke Fang, what happened to him?


    Liu Mu shuddered before further lowering his head.


    Liu Mu is one of our people. His age should be around yours, but he was harmed by a malevolent cultivator, Fang Chen exined.


    Ah, hes around the same age as me! Xia Yuan was taken aback. Wont his family be upset to see his current state


    His family has been killed, Fang Chen replied.


    This Xia Yuan was at a loss for words. He anxiously offered, Imperial Duke Fang, the imperial pce has many valuable medicinal herbs. Will those help to treat those tumors on his body?


    It wont work. Those are mortal herbs. Fang Chen shook his head.


    Xia Yuan sighed. He looked at Liu Mu and said, Rest assured, Liu Mu. Imperial Duke Fang possesses extraordinary means. Hell find a way to treat you.


    Liu Mu slowly raised his head to look at Xia Yuan. It was only when he saw Xia Yuans clear eyes did he point to his throat and make a few Ah sounds.


    The surrounding eunuchs and Valiant Defenders were startled to see that.


    <em>Hes only seven to eight years of age, but his family got killed, he was reduced to such a state, and hes a mute on top of that?</em>


    Young master, its that child?! Huang Sihai was momentarily stunned before rage flickered across his eyes. How did he end up like that? I thought he went to the South Heaven Sect to cultivate?


    Id like to know what happened too, so Im nning on paying a visit to the South Heaven Sect soon and look for a treatment method while Im at it.


    All of a sudden, Fang Chen opened his eyes. He channeled his spirit ki outward to protect the crowd.


    Four earth dragons of over 300 meters tall rose from the ground and furiously thrashed around. Quite a few pce maids, eunuchs, and Valiant Defenders in the vicinity were crushed to death.


    Five Elements Art.


    Fang Chen looked in a certain direction, where an old daoist stood. Thetter was also looking at Fang Chen with deep eyes.

 Chapter 228: Daoist Fang, May We Meet Again

    Chapter 228: Daoist Fang, May We Meet Again


    There was a hugemotion in the imperial garden. Earth dragons of over 300 meters in height crashed down like behemoths plummeting from the sky. Even those living outside the imperial pce could see them.


    The popce panicked.


    They had never seen a sight like this before, and it made them worried about what was happening in the imperial pce.


    In the Pce of Great Peace, the officials who were watching Zhao Yan and the other copy the martial arts manual were taken aback by themotion.


    A eunuch rushed in and reported with a frightful expression, Bad news! Four massive dragons have appeared in the imperial garden!


    Xu Ge, Tie Ma, dont get distracted. Our young master will deal with it, Zhao Yan ordered.


    The two of them were nning to head over, but those words convinced them to curb their urge and continue their writing.


    The officials, however, rushed out of the Pce of Great Peace. They were immediately met with the four humongous earth dragons. It was their first time seeing something like that, and it exerted a tremendous pressure that rendered them unable to breathe.


    Imperial Duke Fang and His Majesty are in the imperial garden! the Fifth King eximed.


    Is this one of Imperial Duke Fangs means? an official asked.


    Jiang Yushu shook his head. Imperial Duke Fang isnt the type who would boast about his skills. Another immortal must havee to our Great Xia, but I wonder if its a friend or a foe.


    Among the crowd, only Li Guozhu had a peculiar expression on his face. He looked both expectant yet worried.


    No matter what, we need to rush there to protect His Majesty! Tao Mingsheng said.


    Minister of Military Personnel Ye Dongming quickly made his way to the imperial garden with the nearby guards.


    When the officials arrived at the imperial garden, they saw corpses littered on the ground. Some bodies were divided into two, and some were mashed into bits.


    Beneath the four rampaging earth dragons stood a slightly hunched old daoist, who quietly exchanged gazes with Fang Chen.


    Li Guozhu further frowned at the sight of the old daoist.


    Dont advance any further. Its a fight between immortals; the likes of us will only die in vain if we get involved, Jiang Yushu reminded.


    The officials could only anxiously watch the situation from a distance. They couldnt help but wonder who the old daoist was and why he would suddenly attack Great Xias imperial pce.


    Is this the means of an immortal? Ji Lengxing mumbled.


    He and his Nightmare Knights were utterly bbergasted. They realized that the immortals means they had witnessed thus far were only the tip of the iceberg.


    Just these four massive earth dragons could easily crush their Chillwaters capital!


    I-Imperial Duke Fang, he Xia Yuan tugged Fang Chens sleeves in a fluster.


    His personal maid, Xiang Zhen, even stood forward to protect Xia Yuan with her body, fearing that harm would befall him.


    You are Great Xias Fang Chen? the old daoist finally spoke up.


    Who are you? Fang Chen asked.


    I am the reverend of Cloudless Monastery. Have you heard of me?


    <em>Cloudless Monastery?</em>


    The crowd racked their brains, but they couldnt figure out where the Cloudless Monastery was. They didnt know that there were countless lives residing in the inds out in the vast sea.


    So its the reverend of Cloudless Monastery. Fang Chen chuckled. May I know what brings you here today? Why kill these innocent mortals? Arent you afraid of karma biting back at you during the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions?


    Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions? the old daoist scoffed. I havent even reached Foundation Establishment, so what rights do I have to encounter the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions? These mere mortals are no different from ants to me. I might overlook them if Im in a good mood, but theres nothing to stop me from trampling on them if Im in a bad mood.


    The crowd felt a chill in their hearts.


    <em>So were so small in the eyes of the cultivators? Were mere ants that they can trample whenever they want?</em>


    I didnte here to waste my breath. I heard from my disciple that the Dragonback Lanes cultivation method is with you.


    Thats right. Fang Chen nodded. Do you want it?


    That is my possession. Ill have to ask you to return it.


    What if I refuse?


    The old daoists lips crept upward. Daoist Fang, do you think that youre unmatched just because you defeated the Pristine Poison King? Have you ever crossed blows with a twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator? Itll only take a snap of my fingers to massacre everyone in this city.


    The crowd gulped.


    <em>If things go wrong, everyone in Great Xias capital might be massacred! That would spell the downfall of Great Xia!</em>


    Fang Chen spent a moment in thought before handing a jade seal to the old daoist.


    I have never touched this jade seal. I believe it contains the cultivation method you want, Fang Chen said.


    The officials frowned. Ji Lengxing nced at Fang Chen. <em>Even Fang Chen fears the prowess of this old daoist!</em>


    The old daoist took the jade seal and infused his spirit ki into it. A momentter, he nodded. Yes, this is it.


    Then, he turned to Li Guozhu and said, Your son turned against our lineage. Ill keep him in our Cloudless Reverend as a medicine man. Do you have anyst words for him? Youll never meet him ever again.


    What?!


    The crowd looked at Li Guozhu in shock. Jiang Yushu frowned. The Fifth King gasped.


    Li Guozhu hadnt expected the old daoist to reveal their identity. He was taken aback, but he quickly snapped out of it and anxiously asked, My son turned against your lineage? There must be some misunderstanding! He wouldnt do something like that!


    My first disciple died in his hands, the old daoist sneered. Dont waste my time and say whatever you want. Ill ry them in your stead.


    Li Guozhu was too stunned to speak. It felt as if fog had suddenly clouded his brain, leaving him groggy.


    The old daoist ignored Li Guozhu and turned his eyes back to Fang Chen. Daoist Fang, may we meet again.


    The four earth dragons copsed to the ground as dirt. By the time the dirt scattered, the old daoist was no longer anywhere to be seen.


    The imperial garden was a mess. The crowd remained deathly silent.


    Fang Chen turned to Xia Yuan and asked, Your Majesty, did you see what a cultivator is capable of?


    Y-yes, I did. Xia Yuan gulped.


    Thats why, you have to work hard. Make Great Xia strong enough to survive a cultivators assault. Fang Chen patted Xia Yuans shoulders before leaving with Liu Mu and the others.


    After leaving the imperial pce, Ji Lengxing bucked his courage and asked, Immortal Fang, may I meet my big brother?


    Dont bother. You havepleted your mission, so you may return now, Fang Chen said.


    Ji Lengxings face stiffened up, but he quickly nodded. Yes, well be taking our leave now.


    After they left, Fang Chen headed southward with Liu Mu.

 Chapter 229: Origin of the Ancestors

    Chapter 229: Origin of the Ancestors


    In the southern regions Fang Manor


    I seeded! Grandfather, I forged an immortal vein! Fang Zhixue shot to her feet in excitement, with a surge of spirit ki enveloping her.


    Victorious Buddha, Great Mountain Tiger, and Blue Azure quietly looked at Fang Zhixue with heartened looks. Their little senior aunt had finally be a cultivator.


    You were only lucky. Dont let it get to your heart, Fang Zhentian replied with a heartyugh.


    Fang Cangyou mumbled grudgingly from the wheelchair, Even Zhixue has forged her immortal vein. I really have no talent for cultivation.


    You might ovee the hurdle whenever you throw away that wheelchair of yours, Fang Zhentian eyed Fang Cangyou and cidly replied.


    Fang Cangyou rolled his wheelchair forward and said, Father, I am already used to it. I think it works fine. Only then will others look down on me, so that I can maintain a low profile.


    Fang Zhentian shook his head. He turned back to Fang Zhixue and said, Zhixue, forging an immortal vein is no easy feat. Your hard work did y a part, but the spirit spring and ki stones yed a vital part too. Dont attribute your sess solely to your own effort. Your big brother had painstakingly set the stage for your breakthrough.


    Fang Zhixue had indeed let her sess get to her head, and Fang Zhentians words made her lower her head.


    Grandfather, sesses are meant to be celebrated. Theres no need to be so harsh to Zhixue, Fang Chen said cheerily as he walked in.


    Fang Zhixue eximed in joy, Big brother!


    Master! The three faes quickly bowed.


    Youre back? Fang Zhentian smiled. How did your trip go?


    It went well. Fang Chen nodded. He proceeded to introduce Liu Mu to the others.


    Fang Zhentian and the others felt pitiful upon learning about Liu Mus plight.


    Rest assured. Now that my big brother is here, hell find a way to rid you of those tumors, so that you can live a normal persons life, Fang Zhixue assured.


    Liu Mu replied with a series of Ahs, and his unconfidence dispelled a little.


    Grandfather, the poison in him might blow up soon, so Im nning to head out with him in search of a treatment method. I have a 100-year-old Scarlet Fruit and 100-year-old Blood Ginseng here. Please take them. Fang Chen handed those two to Fang Zhentian.


    Drawing talismans was his way of cultivation; he thought that Fang Zhentian could put his ki stones, Blood Ginseng, and Scarlet Fruits to better use.


    Its overflowing with spirit ki. Its good stuff. I have already forged my second immortal vein. With these, it wont be long before I forge my third one. Fang Zhentians eyes lit up, and he stowed away the Blood Ginseng and Scarlet Fruit in his storage ring.


    Then, his face suddenly turned grim, and he said, Chener, I think its about time to tell you.


    Fang Chen was taken aback. <em>What kind of matter would bring such a grim expression to grandfathers face? </em>He nodded. Grandfather, please speak.


    Fang Zhentian sighed as nostalgia seeped into his eyes. My grandfather told me something back when I was at a young age. I thought he had gone senile as he was nearing the end of his lifespan, so I didnt take it to heart, but now that I think about it, its most likely true.


    <em>My great-great grandfather?</em>


    Fang Chen was baffled. <em>My great-great grandfather died a long time ago, and he was buried in the Immemorial Mausoleum. What does this matter have to do with him?</em>


    Grandfather, what is it? Fang Chen asked.


    Where do you think our Fang n is from? Fang Zhentian asked.


    Is it not Great Xia?


    Fang Zhentian chuckled. Great Xia was conquered by the ancestors of our Fang n and the Xia n. Where do you think we were from before then?


    Im afraid I dont know, Fang Chen replied with a bitter smile.


    This matter had happened too long ago for him to have heard about it. It had only been twenty years since he had arrived in this world, after all.


    Fang Zhixue pricked up her ears out of curiosity too. Even Victorious Buddha and the other faes looked at Fang Zhentian expectantly.


    Fang Zhentian smiled. My grandfather told me that our Fang n used to be a great immortal n, but our lineage offended someone we shouldnt have and was evicted out of our n, thus resulting in our current plight.


    As I expected! Our master is of an extraordinary background!


    Victorious Buddha and the others exchanged looks.


    Fang Zhixue was in disbelief. Grandfather, youre saying that our ancestors are cultivators?


    Only my grandfather is; the others who came after him are mortals. My grandfather told me that when he was evicted from the great immortal n, he had to make a vow to not pass down his cultivation method to his offspring, thus ending the legacy for our lineage.


    Can this matter be verified? Fang Chen asked.


    Theres no way to verify it. Fang Zhentian shook his head. He looked at Fang Chen and said, My grandfather hoped that our Fang n could return to its roots one day. That is his wish, as well as those whoe before him. I heard that when he was evicted, the n made a promise to take him back if one of his descendants finds a way to embark on the path of immortality.


    Grandfather, you wish for me to look for our ancestral n and return to it? Fang Chen asked.


    Fang Zhentian nodded. If this matter is true, youll receive better resources if you return to the n. Itll help you in your path to immortality.


    My grandfather said that there were some people who were opposed to his eviction from the n, particrly his siblings. If they are still around, they should be of aid to you. Im sure they share the same wish as my grandfather. Theyll be heartened to see my grandfathers descendants rejoining their ranks.


    Fang Chen was put in a spot. He would probably be in a better position if he headed to the Central Continent Country and joined the Three Thousand Dao Gate after reaching Foundation Establishment, but he could tell that Fang Zhentian had a fixation on this matter.


    Since its my great-great grandfathers wish, Ill fulfill it on his behalf if an opportunity arises. Its just that the world is huge, so Im not sure where I can start searching, Fang Chen replied.


    This jade seal was passed down for generations in our Fang n. I thought that it was a normal jade pendant, but now that Im looking at it, its probably a clue for our return. Im getting old and dont wish to travel around anymore, so Ill entrust it to you instead.


    Fang Zhentian took out an old jade seal and handed it to Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen looked at the jade seal in astonishment. He channeled his spirit ki into it, and an ancient map emerged in his head. <em>It really is a map?!</em>


    This meant that their ancestors were truly from a cultivator n!


    If you cant find a way to treat this child, returning to our ancestral n is an option too. Fang Zhentian eyed Liu Mu.

 Chapter 230: Heading Out to Sea

    Chapter 230: Heading Out to Sea


    Grandfather, can I go with big


    Fang Zhentian interjected before Fang Zhixue could finish her words.


    Lass, I have never stepped into the world of cultivation myself, but even the world of mortal humans eat humans. Itll only be more cruel in the world of cultivation. Your big brother has the means to stand his ground in the world of cultivation, but what about you? Youll only be gobbled up whole. Dont harbor such thoughts, unless you have the strength to protect yourself. Till then, you should obediently cultivate here!


    Fang Zhixue was indignant. She tried to argue, Grandfather, why would our ancestral n gobble me up


    Our grandfather is right. Our ancestor was evicted out of the n, and many years have passed since. Who knows what they are currently thinking? Listen to our grandfather and cultivate here. You wont be lonely with Victorious Buddha and the others here with you, Fang Chen said.


    Fang Zhixue pouted. She might be young, but she wasnt dumb. She understood the logic too, but she still felt a tinge of indignation for not being able to venture into the world of cultivation.


    Wheres father and mother? I dont see them in the manor, Fang Chen asked.


    They have gone out to explore the world. They said they wanted to see what lies beyond Great Xia, Fang Zhentian replied with a smile.


    What if they meet with danger? Fang Chen was worried.


    They have Purple Lightning Talismans. Thats enough for them to ovee most dangers. Your father is a careful man, so I doubt theyll encounter any huge problems. They dont have cultivation talent, so perhaps it might be good for them to seek their own fortuitous encounter, Fang Zhentian said. Dont worry about the affairs of us elders. Focus on your present instead.


    Fang Chen nodded.


    The following day, Fang Chen returned to the capital with Liu Mu.


    Zhao Yan and the others had finished copying Chillwaters martial arts legacies. The imperial pce had also quickly constructed an imperial library in the meantime.


    Fang Chen had the three of them deliver the real books to the Fang Manor and instructed them to cultivate in the Fang n for the time being. If Zhao Yan ever advanced to Heaven Profound realm, he should pay a visit to Fang Zhentian and request a cultivation method.


    At the same time, he had Xu Ge hand Purple Aura Forms first three levels into the hands of the Great Xia Shadow Guards and issued some instructions.


    After all was done, he left Great Xia with Liu Mu.


    They headed to a crowded port. The mortals living here would have never imagined that they often brushed shoulders with cultivators.


    This map points toward our ancestral n, but the ports indicated on it are of great help, Fang Chen murmured with a smile as he looked at the boats stopped by the harbor.


    There were over a hundred ports indicated on the map, and this was one of them. If not for the map, he wouldnt have known that there was a port that cultivators frequented in the vicinity.


    With just a few quick nces, Fang Chen could already tell which boats belonged to mortals, and which ones belonged to cultivators. He brought Liu Mu to one of therger boats.


    Ten daosoul imprints. This boat is an artifact Fang Chen mumbled.


    Just then, a middle-aged man walked up and asked, This daoist over here, where are you heading to? Our boat heads to four ces, namely


    Is there a boat here that leads to the Cloudless Monastery? Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    Cloudless Monastery? Are you heading there to visit a friend? What a coincidence. My boat passes by the area! the middle-aged man said.


    Are you the captain of this boat? Fang Chen was curious.


    The middle-aged man saw through Fang Chens thoughts and replied, Yes, I am the captain of this boat. I staked all of my fortune into it in hopes of earning a couple of ki stones.


    How much does the trip to Cloudless Monastery cost for two? Fang Chen asked.


    The middle-aged man nced at Liu Mu, who was cloaked in a ck robe. He could vaguely smell a stenching from thetter and was curious, but he didnt probe any deeper. It was taboo in the world of cultivation to infringe on another persons privacy, and such carelessness could cause death.


    Itll cost 5 ki stones per passenger, the middle-aged man replied after some thought.


    That seems a bit pricey, isnt it? Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    The middle-aged man was indignant. Fellow daoist, how can you say that? Feel free to ask the people here about Captain Ding if you dont believe me. My prices have always been fair! Theres no one here who hasnt heard about my reputation. I believe in conducting my business with honesty so that customers will return! I would never rip anyone off.


    Captain Ding, how long will the journey take? Fang Chen smiled.


    Captain Ding immediately replied, Three days. Just three days will suffice.


    Three days? Thats not too long. Fang Chen nodded before handing 10 ki stones to Captain Ding.


    Captain Dings mood lifted upon seeing that he had a deal. He stowed away the ki stones before warmly ushering the two of them onto his boat. He prepared apartment for them and even had a mortal servant to attend to their needs.


    Well be setting off in half a days time. Please, rest in your room. Three days will pass in a sh. Someone will inform you when its time to alight, Captain Ding said before rushing off.


    As he had said, the boat really set off half a dayter.


    Fang Chen astral projected his soul out to take a look. He was curious as he knew that Captain Ding, as a seventh stage Ki Refinement cultivator, wouldnt be strong enough to drive this boat, which was a ten daosoul imprint artifact.


    What was driving this boat were low-grade ki stones. Spirit ki was being drawn out of the ki stones to drive the boat, allowing it to move at an incredible speed.


    An artifact that is capable of being channeled through such a method muste from a grade-6 state. No wonder he said that he had spent his whole fortune on it, Fang Chen thought.


    Captain Ding probably had some background too, else he wouldnt have been able to do this for a living. There were over forty cultivators currently on the boat, and some of them were traveling even further away so they were being charged 7 to 8 ki stones.


    Even after factoring in the ki stones expended for driving the boat, Captain Ding could still easily earn over 100 low-grade ki stones for a single trip. This was a highly lucrative business, though the initial cost might be high too.


    Without any background, someone would have already tried to rob Captain Ding by now.


    Three days passed in a sh.


    Fang Chen drew a couple more Purple Lightning Talismans in the meantime, causing his spirit ki to grow significantly. At this rate, he should be able to forge his ninth immortal vein by the end of the month.


    Milord, the boat has reached the shore, the mortal attendant respectfully knocked on Fang Chens door and said.


    Secondster, Fang Chen walked out with Liu Mu.


    Before him was a verdant little ind. The port wasnt as prosperous as the one he saw before, being at a much smaller scale.


    Daoist, Cloudless Monastery is located on this ind. Boats pass by this ce every day, so you should be able to leave whenever you want. Captain Ding headed to Fang Chens side and pointed out a direction for him.


    There was indeed a building reminiscent of a monastery in that direction.


    Ive troubled you, Captain Ding. May we meet again. Fang Chen sped his fist before alighting from the boat with Liu Mu.

 Chapter 231: The Prowess of the Pinnacle Purple Lightning Talisman

    Chapter 231: The Prowess of the Pinnacle Purple Lightning Talisman


    Fang Chen stood quietly at the port as the boat departed.


    The local fishermen appeared to be ustomed to this sight. They merely spared a few nces at him before getting busy.


    Liu Mu stood quietly behind Fang Chen, not making the slightest noise.


    Fang Chens soul had already risen above the ind to survey the area. It was slightlyrger than Great Xias capital, and there appeared to be dozens of viges residing here. All in all, it had a poption of around 30,000 to 50,000.


    There were quite a few little daoists in the Cloudless Monastery. Some were practicing their breathing techniques to the morning sun, whereas others were cleaning the entrance. There were around a hundred people residing in the monastery.


    These little daoists werent cultivators but martial artists, and most had reached Earth Profound realm. Some of the older daoists were even at Heaven Profound realm.


    Of the entire monastery, there were only five individuals that emanated a cultivators aura. Needless to say, the strongest one belonged to the Cloudless Monasterys reverend.


    The other four ranged between third stage to sixth stage Ki Refinement.


    There was a mansion deep in the Cloudless Monastery, with a faint medicinal fragrance wafting from it. There was a spirit field and spirit spring inside.


    The spirit spring was rich in spirit ki,parable to the one in the Fang Manor, just that it was much smaller in size, being only around the size of a fist.


    Dozens of herbs were being grown on the spirit field. They werent on the level of the 100-year-old Scarlet Fruit or 100-year-old Blood Ginseng, but they were potent enough to even allow a mortal corpse to regrow its flesh.


    A ce where a cultivator dwells is bound to have some spirit entities. While this ind looks ordinary on the surface, it has a natural spirit field and spirit spring, Fang Chen thought.


    This was likely one of the key differences between an unaffiliated cultivator and a sect.


    Stronger sects were bound to have more potent spirit fields and spirit springs, or maybe even spirit entities beyond Fang Chens imagination.


    All of a sudden, a fragrance wafted from one of the rooms.


    An old daoist opened the door with a silver tray in hand. ced on the silver tray were ten pills around the size of a longan. These pills were pristine white, and they let out a rich fragrance.


    Four daoists entered the room with Li Huafeng. They walked up to the old daoist and respectfully greeted him with a bow, Master.


    They were the four other cultivators in the Cloudless Monastery aside from the old daoist.


    Master, I was wrong. I was wrong! Li Huafengs face warped in fright upon seeing the pills, and he desperately pleaded for mercy.


    The old daoist was unfazed. Paying no heed to Li Huafengs cries, he had one of his disciples stuff one of the pills into thetters mouth.


    Li Huafeng didnt want to swallow it, but the pill dissolved as soon as it entered his mouth, and it flowed down his esophagus into his stomach.


    The crowd quietly waited.


    Secondster, Li Huafeng suddenly spat out blood. His hair turned white at a visibly pace, and he could feel himself swiftly weakening. His eyes were filled with despair.


    He truly wished that he had never embarked on this path. If only he was still in Great Xia, he could have continued to enjoy afortable life.


    Another batch of failed pills, the old daoist said with a sigh as he destroyed the remaining pills on the silver tray.


    A white eagle suddenly descended from the sky andnded on one of the cultivators shoulders. The cultivator nced at it before reporting to the old daoist, Master, a cultivator hasnded on the ind.


    Lets take a look. Follow me, the old daoist said.


    Fang Chen looked at the white eagle before returning his soul to his body. He began making his way toward the Cloudless Monastery with Liu Mu.


    By the time they arrived at the Cloudless Monastery, there were already dozens of ordinary daoists standing at the entrance, coldly eyeing the two of them. A middle-aged daoist cidly asked, Report your name.


    Tell your reverend Great Xias Fang Chen is here, Fang Chen said.


    The middle-aged daoist frowned. He had heard of Great Xia, but to him, a grade-9 state was no different from an ant. It was unthinkable that someone from there woulde to this ind.


    Do you know where you are? the middle-aged daoist bellowed. Cloudless Monastery is not a ce anyone can enter.


    A mere Heaven Profound realm martial artist thinks hes qualified to guard the entrance? Reverend of the Cloudless Monastery, dont you think youre insulting me too much by having him face me? Fang Chen remarked with a chuckle.


    The middle-aged daoist was stunned. He thought about what Fang Chen said earlier, and his heart jolted. <em>Hes able to see through my martial cultivation? </em>


    <em>Is he a cultivator?</em>


    <em>But how can a grade-9 state like Great Xia have an immortal?</em>


    He was from a grade-7 state, but even so, it hadnt been easy for him to find an immortal to serve. It took a lot of effort before he was epted as a disciple of the Cloudless Monastery. Naturally, he knew how difficult it was to be an immortal.


    Just then, a young daoist walked out. The daoists at the entrance respectfully bowed to him.


    Our master invites you in, the young daoist cidly informed Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen smiled. He entered the monastery together with Liu Mu. Soon, he came face to face with the old daoist and his three other disciples.


    Daoist Fang, what brings you here? the old daoist calmly asked.


    Daoist, it was not long ago that you barged into Great Xias capital and killed many of my people. Have you forgotten about that? Fang Chen asked.


    The old daoist was stunned. He took a few looks at Fang Chen before smirking in disdain. Daoist Fang, you dared not make a move on me earlier, yet you marched into the Cloudless Monastery on your own ord. Did you get braver in a matter of days?


    A sh between cultivators is bound to cause a hugemotion. I didnt want to involve innocent Great Xia civilians, Fang Chen replied.


    The old daoists disciples were startled to hear that.


    <em>Is thisd a Foundation Establishment cultivator? No, thats impossible. But no one beneath Foundation Establishment would dare to utter such words to our master. </em>


    Daoist Fang, lets not beat around the bush. Why are you here? the old daoist coldly asked once more.


    You dont believe me? Fang Chen replied.


    The old daoistughed. A couple of measly mortal lives would prompt you to spend ki stones to travel here?


    What a pity. Thats exactly the reason why Im here. Fang Chen smiled.


    The next instant, a water dragon of over a hundred meters long suddenly assaulted Fang Chen.


    Youre also afraid of wrecking your turf with your earth elemental arts? Fang Chen scoffed.


    He tossed out a Purple Lightning Talisman, and purple lightning blinded everyones eyes.


    The terrifying lightning energy instantaneously engulfed the old daoist and the others behind the water dragon. The ground, the ceiling, and everything else that had been struck by the lightning were reduced to cinders.


    As soon as he threw the talisman, Fang Chen had already made sure to retreat a distance away with Liu Mu.


    By the time the lightning dissipated, everything had been reduced to ruins.


    The old daoists four disciples were reduced to charred corpses, looking as if they would disperse at the gentlest blow of a wind. As for the old daoist, he remained standing.


    The spirit ki barrier around him had greatly thinned, and hisplexion was ghastly white. He seemed to have expended 80% to 90% of his spirit ki to survive this attack.


    The ordinary daoists who were rmed by themotion rushed over and were shocked speechless.


    I can be certain now its a pinnacle Purple Lightning Talisman, Fang Chen murmured.


    That much was clear from the devastation caused by the lightning. High-grade Purple Lightning Talismans couldnt have been this much stronger than a mid-grade Purple Lightning Talisman.

 Chapter 232: Spare Me, Daoist

    Chapter 232: Spare Me, Daoist


    The Purple Lightning Talisman


    The old daoist grimly stared at Fang Chen, not daring to make light of thetter anymore. That was the strongest talisman he had ever seen in his life.


    He had known about the existence of the Purple Lightning Talisman, and he had seen what it was capable of too. However, most of them were low-grade or mid-grade. High-grade talismans were exceedingly rare, let alone pinnacle ones.


    I finally understand why Daoist Fang dares to intrude on my turf, the old daoist said. You had a pinnacle Purple Lightning Talisman to fall back on. I wonder what other means you have now that you have used that talisman. Do you have a second or third talisman to squander?


    The old daoist looked at Fang Chen in derision. You killed my four disciples and wreaked havoc in my turf. Youll soon find death to be a wishful dream for you.


    He didnt think that Fang Chen could have more Purple Lightning Talismans. He might have a second one, but a third one would be out of question. That would be unthinkable!


    Pinnacle Purple Lightning Talisman would have been incredibly exorbitant! Even a hundred low-grade ki stones might not have been enough to purchase one!


    Purple Lightning Talismans were consumables that could only be used once, but their prowess far exceeded that of artifacts of the same tier.


    Pinnacle Purple Lightning Talismans wielded incredible prowess that could threaten even twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivators. If it appeared in the market, many parties would surelypete for it, even Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    The usefulness of such items could sometimes exceed artifacts.


    However, it was so rare to find one that it was hard to put a proper price on it. Sometimes, when it appeared in an auction, its price could even hike up to 200 low-grade ki stones!


    What makes you so certain, daoist? Why dont you see what this is? Fang Chen took out another Purple Lightning Talisman.


    Where is he pulling these Purple Lightning Talismans from?!


    Then, the old daoist saw Fang Chen taking out another one. By this point, he had already begun trembling uncontrobly.


    But Fang Chen proceeded to pull out a second one, a third one, and a fourth one. By the time he pulled out a fifth one, the old daoist gulped.


    Daoist Fang, we can sit down and talk things out.


    Hahaha Thisughter wasnt from Fang Chen.


    The crowd turned to the corner, where Li Huafeng could be seen crouching in the corner,ughing maniacally at the old daoist.


    The old daoists face darkened. What are youughing at?


    Imughing at your imminent death! You dared mess with Fang Chen despite not knowing his background. Hahaha! Li Huafengughed like a madman.


    The old daoists heart skipped a beat.


    Even the South Heaven Sects Foundation Establishment cultivator addresses him with utmost respect, yet you naively thought that he was an ordinary cultivator?! Old man, your death date is here! Li Huafeng spat through clenched jaws.


    <em>Even the South Heaven Sects Foundation Establishment cultivator addresses him with utmost respect?! </em>The old daoist was stunned.


    As a twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator, how could he have not heard about the South Heaven Sect, one of Infernozes top sects? The Foundation Establishment cultivators there were known to be incredibly arrogant.


    Yet, they addressed a Ki Refinement cultivator courteously?


    There was only one possibility. This Ki Refinement cultivator standing before him must have an evenrger standing than the South Heaven Sect!


    Could it be that his Purple Lightning Talismans are from a sect elder?


    As this thought surfaced in his mind, many expressions flickered across his face. He realized that this deduction made a lot of sense!


    Daoist, I know that we had our differences, but I canpensate Great Xia for its casualties. What do you think about my external disciples? They are at least at Earth Profound realm, and some have even reached Heaven Profound realm. You can have all of them!


    The old daoists gestured to the ordinary daoists who had just rushed here.


    The ordinary daoists looked ufortable hearing that the old daoist wanted to give them to Fang Chen. They thought that they would be treated fairly after joining the Cloudless Monastery, but here they were being used asmodities to trade!


    Thats unnecessary. Fang Chenughed.


    Little sword whizzed forth, piercing through the old daoists spirit ki barrier and decapitating him. His head rolled a far distance away, but even so, he continued to speak, Daoist, spare me!


    Everyone, including Fang Chen, felt goosebumps.


    This is the means of an immortal Li Huafeng murmured.


    Little sword smashed the old daoists head into pieces before slicing up his corpse, thus erasing any possibility of himing back.


    <em>That scared me. Hes still able to talk even after losing his head I mustnt judge cultivators bymon sense, </em>Fang Chen told himself.


    Hebed the old daoists body and found a storage ring. The other cultivators also had some artifacts on them too. He stowed away all of them.


    The ordinary daoists stood in a daze, not daring to move or speak.


    Young master Fang, lets make a deal, Li Huafeng said.


    You want to make a deal with me? Fang Chen looked incredulous. Tell me about it.


    Do you want to know His Majestys whereabouts? Li Huafeng asked with a suppressed voice.


    He was referring not to Xia Yuan but Xia Xuanji.


    You know where he is? Fang Chen narrowed his eyes. He constructed a spirit ki barrier around them before slowly walking up to Li Huafeng. Outsiders couldnt hear their conversation anymore.


    I have a clue, Li Huafeng replied. Escort me back to Great Xia, and gift me that old mans martial arts manuals, and Ill tell you.


    You dont want to be a cultivator anymore? Fang Chen asked with a mocking smile.


    Li Huafengs face stiffened up. He lowered his head and replied, The world of cultivation is more cruel than I thought. This path isnt suited for me.


    Speak. If your clue is useful, Ill ede to your request, Fang Chen said.


    Li Huafeng took one good look at Fang Chen before saying, Young master Fang, youre a man of your words. Ill trust you.


    He paused for a second before continuing on, Before I joined the Cloudless Monastery, I saw him here from a distance away. Hes acquainted with this old man.


    Fang Chen was taken aback by the news.


    <em>Xia Xuanji has ties with the Cloudless Monasterys reverend? Xia Xuanji is rted to the Blood Spirit Cult too could the Cloudless Monastery be one of the Blood Spirit Cults pawn pieces?</em>


    What else? Fang Chen asked.


    Li Huafeng shook his head. Thats all.


    You have no evidence.


    Yes, I only saw His Majesty from a distance away. I have no evidence. Li Huafeng conceded.


    Fang Chen was silent for seconds before replying, Ill have someone escort you back to Great Xia.


    Li Huafeng was relieved. He knew that he would never find his way back to Great Xia without Fang Chens help. Even leaving this ind could be beyond him, as the ships that passed by here only epted the cultivators ki stones!


    Paying respect to the reverend!


    All of a sudden, the nearby daoists respectfully bowed to Fang Chen under the lead of the Heaven Profound realm martial artists.


    Fang Chen eyed them before saying, I wont be the Cloudless Monasterys reverend.


    The daoists panicked. One of the Heaven Profound realm daoists quickly spoke up, Elder, you killed the old reverend. If you dont be the new reverend, it wont be long before someone eyes this ind. We might be killed if that happens!

 Chapter 233: My Conscience is Clear

    Chapter 233: My Conscience is Clear


    Does the Cloudless Monastery have many enemies? Fang Chen asked.


    The Heaven Profound realm daoist hurriedly replied, Elder, theres stiffpetition over this ind. Many immortals covet this ind, but the old reverend sent them packing. If they learn that this ind has be a free territory, theyll surelye knocking once more.


    Those cultivators are vicious. Its clear from a look that they arent orthodox.


    Fang Chen pondered about it before nodding. Got it, but I wont be your reverend. Neither am I a daoist either. Change the que. Lets go with Shadow Courtyard.


    The daoists didnt know what Hidden Courtyard was, but they were still delighted. At least they wouldnt have to worry about other cultivators for the time being.


    Hidden Courtyard Li Huafeng murmured.


    All of a sudden, he turned to Fang Chen with shocked eyes. It just so happened that Fang Chen also looked back at him at this juncture.


    I have heard that theres a peculiar force called the Great Xia Shadow Guards, but no one knows who they are or where they are from


    To have heard of those four words, it looks like you havent been in the Court of Great Brilliance in vain.


    It really is you Li Huafeng widened his eyes in realization.


    That exined why the Great Xia Shadow Guards were so elusive. He had caught wind of their trail before, but he couldnt gather more evidence no matter how he investigated the matter. That wouldnt be surprising if Fang Chen was the one behind this.


    Two hourster, a hundred daoists were gathered in front of Fang Chen in the Cloudless Monasterys main hall. Standing at the forefront were the three Heaven Profound realm daoists, whose cultivations were at first stage Severing Ki Severance.


    Fang Chen had already crossed blows with martial artists of that caliber. Their inner ki had undergone a qualitative change, allowing them to faze spirit ki.


    Report your backgrounds. Feel free to report anyone who conceals anything. Those who sessfully made a report will be handsomely rewarded, Fang Chen ordered.


    The daoists exchanged looks. They quickly revealed their backgrounds. Some were from grade-7 states, and others were from grade-8 states. Most of them had stumbled upon the Cloudless Monastery while searching for a path toward immortality.


    In a sense, they were simr to Xia Yu, just that Xia Yu was epted into the South Heaven Sect as a proper disciple, whereas they were just menialbor in the Cloudless Monastery. The old daoist had no intention of imparting his cultivation method to them.


    You wish to be cultivators? Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    The eyes of the crowd lit up.


    The three Heaven Profound realm martial artists even kneeled down and kowtowed nonstop, which prompted the other daoists to do the same too.


    Get up, Fang Chen instructed.


    After all of the daoists rose to their feet, Fang Chen walked up to the three Heaven Profound realm daoists and said, I wont ask about your backgrounds or what you have done in the past. If you wish to cultivate, I can take you in as my disciples, bestow you with a daoist name, and impart to you a cultivation method.


    Master!


    The three Heaven Profound realm daoists were so excited that they immediately kneeled down.


    The remaining Earth Profound realm daoists watched the sight with envy.


    No rush, Fang Chen said. I have a request. If you cant do it, you shall no longer be my disciple.


    Please speak, master! the three of them said excitedly.


    The world of cultivation is a cruel ce. You should have seen it yourself.


    The three of them instinctively nodded. <em>The old daoist whom we viewed as a god and his disciples were killed overnight</em>


    There are tricks to survive in the world of cultivation, and I wont be able to teach those to you. However, I ask you to have a clear conscience, Fang Chen said. Theres no hurry. You should think it through before answering me.


    <em>Clear conscience?</em>


    The three of them thought about it. Momentster, one of them said with a lowered voice, Master, I havemitted wrongdoings. My conscience is not clear.


    The other two didnt fare any better. They knew that they wouldnt be able to hide their sins from Fang Chen, so they didnt bother to do it at all.


    What about from now onward? Fang Chen asked.


    From now onward? The three of them took seconds to process it before delight erupted on their faces. They nodded their heads fervently as they replied, Rest assured, master! Well surely live our lives with a clear conscience from now onward. May lightning strike us if we fail to live up to that!


    Thats enough. Youll be the Shadow Courtyards First Disciple, Second Disciple, and Third Disciple. Ill bestow you the following daoist namesHeaven One, Heaven Two, and Heaven Three.


    Fang Chen turned to the remaining crowd and said, Whoever manages to advance to Heaven Profound realm will be bestowed with a cultivation method too. Your daoist names will be based on your order. Remember, our Shadow Courtyard only has one requirement.


    He paused for a second and channeled his spirit ki. Then, his voice reverberated in everyones ears, To have a clear conscience!


    The daoists looked as if they had been granted a new life. They knew that a new path awaited them from this day onward.


    Fang Chen imparted Heaven One, Heaven Two, and Heaven Three with the first three stages of the Purple Aura Form in front of the crowd before heading to the old daoists dwelling.


    The spirit herbs there were worth from ki stones, but he didnt have the time to take care of them, so he decided to just take them with him.


    Then, he looked at the spirit spring. It was a little small, but it should be enough for the daily use of around ten cultivators, though its effectiveness would be beneath that of using ki stones.


    Fang Chen confirmed that no one was around before taking out the artifacts he had just obtained. He fed them all to little sword. Little sword was satisfied with the meal, and its aura further intensified.


    How intriguing. Where are your daosoul imprints hidden? Fang Chen examined little sword, but he couldnt see through it despite his powerful soul.


    That night, Fang Chen assimted the storage ring left behind by the old daoist, and he found a twelve daosoul imprints artifact in it. Naturally, he fed it to little sword.


    Other than that, he also found three jade sealsone containing the Five Elements Art, one containing the old daoists cultivation method, and thest one had the cultivation method that the Dragonback Lanes Boss You sold.


    Fang Chen did someparisons and found that the old daoists cultivation method was imperfect. It was enough to reach twelfth stage Ki Refinement, but it would take more time. In contrast, the Dragonback Lanes cultivation method was much better.


    Both paled far inparison to the Purple Aura Form though.


    Even so, the Purple Aura Form was a beggar before an emperor whenpared to the Three Thousand Dao Gates initiate manual. There was a massive gap between them. The immortal veins forged through thetter were much sturdier and thicker.


    A Ki Refinement cultivation method is ones foundation. It determines how far one can climb. Fortunately, the cultivation method Elder Cloudcrane imparted to me is top-notch.


    Thinking about it, the future of unaffiliated cultivators and ordinary sect disciples were decided from the very start, when they began practicing their respective cultivation methods. Unless they encountered a fortuitous encounter, it would be hard for them to ovee their invisible ceiling and reach the top.


    In that regard, Fang Chen was truly fortunate.


    He stowed away the jade seals. He was in no rush to explore the Five Elements Art. Instead, he astral projected his soul to keep an eye on Heaven One and the others.


    If the Cloudless Monastery was linked to the Blood Spirit Cult, the old daoist and his disciples were definitely guilty.


    Heaven One and the others were just martial artists, so it was unlikely for them to have received missions from the Blood Spirit Cult, but Fang Chen wouldnt overlook it as long as there was a chance.


    Everyone was very excited that night. Heaven One and the others were focused on studying the Purple Aura Form. No one disyed any anomalous movements.

 Chapter 234: Ninth Stage Ki Refinement!

    Chapter 234: Ninth Stage Ki Refinement!


    Two dayster, Fang Chen made preparations to leave this ind with Liu Mu.


    Young master Fang, you said that youd escort me back! Li Huafeng stared at Fang Chen from a wheelchair.


    I have matters to attend to, so I wont be able to personally escort you. The others, like you, dont know the way to Great Xia, so Ill escort you once Im done with my business, Fang Chen said. No one will use you to test their medicine on this ind anymore, so you have nothing to worry about.


    All right Li Huafeng hesitated for a few seconds before nodding.


    The old daoist and his disciples were dead, so he wasnt in any danger anymore.


    Farewell, master. Heaven One and the other daoists sped their fists and bowed to send Fang Chen off.


    Senior Li, master has left us with instructions. Youre allowed to move around freely on this ind, and we wont stop you if you decide to leave on your own too, Heaven One informed Li Huafeng with a smile.


    Im crippled. How can I leave on my own? Li Huafeng pondered for a moment before asking, May I move into that old mans ce?


    He knew that there was a spirit spring there, which the old man and his disciples would drink from every day. That definitely had to be good stuff!


    Master has also said that we should throw you into the sea to feed the fishes if you dont know your ce, Heaven One said with an unnerving smile.


    Li Huafengs heart froze over. He dropped his greed and left with his wheelchair.


    After getting on a boat heading to Infernoze, Fang Chen first inspected Liu Mus condition and found that thetters poison was swiftly building up. It was only a matter of time before the poison erupted.


    That would be the day Liu Mu breathed hisst.


    Are you afraid of death? Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    Liu Mu shook his head. There was no fear in his eyes. He had already grown numb by now.


    Therell be hope as long as youre alive. You can not fear death, but never lose your survival instincts, Fang Chen advised.


    Liu Mu let those words sink in before nodding.


    Ill bring you to the Moon Monastery when we reach Infernoze. Abbess Starchaser is a good person, and shes a Foundation Establishment cultivator. She might have a way to treat you.


    Liu Mus eyes lit up a bit, and he nodded even more vigorously than before.


    In the following days, Fang Chen spent most of his time drawing Purple Lightning Talismans. As he depleted his supply of Thunderjolt Wood Talisman Paper and Nine Tribtions Cinnabar, the number of Purple Lightning Talismans in his storage ring grew proportionately.


    One day, he suddenly felt an impetus.


    A huge amount of spirit ki surged into the cabin and flowed into Fang Chens body. His ninth immortal vein was being forged!


    He could use his spirit ki to conceal themotion caused by his talisman drawing, but he couldnt do the same for his breakthrough.


    The hundred cultivators riding on the boat sensed the spirit ki pulsations and looked at Fang Chens cabin. Some of them fell into deep thought, whereas some of them revealed envious looks.


    Thismotion It must be an eighth stage Ki Refinement cultivator making a breakthrough.


    Ey, I have been stuck in eighth stage Ki Refinement for two decades now. I wonder when I can make a breakthrough too.


    I remember that fellow. I saw him while he was boarding the boat. He looks young. I wonder which sect he is from.


    There are ways to preserve ones looks.


    Thats true.


    Such discussion could be heard, but they didnt delve deeper. Ordinary people dared to run their mouths, but cultivators were wary when it came to their words. Only those who possessed powerful means or had a formidable background would dare speak whatever they wanted.


    Two hourster


    Hm? Why is the spirit ki still gathering? Has he not formed his immortal vein yet? a middle-aged woman asked her husband.


    This was a family of three. All of them were cultivators. The child was only ten years of age, but he had already reached second stage Ki Refinement.


    The stronger the cultivation method, the sturdier the immortal vein. Naturally, the longer the time required for a breakthrough, the husband grimly said.


    The other cultivators noticed that too.


    A ninth stage Ki Refinement cultivator murmured, It only took me fifteen minutes to forge my immortal vein when I made a breakthrough to ninth stage Ki Refinement.


    Time ticked by. Four hours passed, but spirit ki was still flowing ceaselessly into Fang Chens cabin. Even the captain was rmed this time, and he rushed over with his men.


    Captain, whats the background of the person inside? Is he from the South Heaven Sect or the Beast Spirit Valley? someone asked.


    The captain shook his head. I dont know either. I cant carelessly probe into such matters.


    The person who asked the question responded with a sheepish smile. It was indeed taboo to probe into other peoples backgrounds.


    Captain, there are many sea beasts in the ocean. They will be drawn to the spirit ki. We might face trouble if he doesnt end his breakthrough soon, a cultivator said with a frown.


    But we cant possibly interrupt his breakthrough, right? the captain bitterly replied.


    The others frowned as well. Disturbing a persons breakthrough was viewed to be a sin as terrible as killing ones parents, and the victim would often hunt the culprit to the ends of the world.


    Dont worry about it. This boat is a twelve daosoul imprints artifact. There shouldnt be any trouble as long as it isnt a Foundation Establishment sea beast, the captain said.


    By the corner of the boat, a middle-aged man turned to a 15-year-old girl beside him and said, Young miss, he isnt the person after us. They wouldnt choose to make a breakthrough here. We should be safe once we reach Infernoze.


    Uncle Zhong, will we really be safe at Infernoze? Its only a grade-6 state the girl replied worriedly.


    Thats why they wouldnt fathom that we would head to Infernoze, the middle-aged man replied.


    The girl nodded.


    Momentster, the spirit ki pulsations finally died down.


    A cultivator bucked up his courage, walked up to the cabin door, sped his fist, and said, Congrattions to daoist for advancing a step higher!


    Other cultivators quickly did the same too with curiosity gleaming in their eyes.


    They wanted to know the background of the person inside. What kind of major sect was he from that he required four hours for a breakthrough as a Ki Refinement cultivator?


    Secondster, the door opened.


    Fang Chen looked at the cultivators crowded outside his door and smiled. Pardon me. I have disturbed all of you.


    <em>How courteous!</em>


    The crowds smiles grew more amiable. Even the captain stepped forward to have a chat with Fang Chen.


    Meanwhile, ck silhouettes appeared in the deep blue ocean. These silhouettes had been skirting about the boat when one of them suddenly rammed the boat, causing those present to stagger a few steps.


    A sea beast attack!


    Some of the cultivators felt uneasy.


    They were currently in the middle of the ocean. If the sea beasts were to destroy their boat, it was unlikely that they would have enough spirit ki to reachnd even if they could fly via an ego artifact.


    In other words, all of them would drown in the ocean.


    Dont worry, the captain calmly shouted.


    He channeled his spirit ki, and a spirit ki barrier resembling a golden light dome enveloped the entire boat.


    Seeing that, the dark silhouettes slowly surfaced from the ocean and coldly eyed the crowd with theirrge eyes.

 Chapter 235: Curbing Violence With Violence

    Chapter 235: Curbing Violence With Violence


    Those are Green Eyes Torrent Beasts! a cultivator noticed the sea beasts and eximed with a fearful voice.


    Its true and theres more than one of them


    Other than a handful of people, most of the cultivators sumbed to terror.


    A mature Green Eyes Torrent Beast wasparable to an eleventh stage Ki Refinement cultivator, and it was capable of raising terrifying waves. Many ships had been destroyed in their hands.


    They might have still stood a chance if there was only one, but they were surrounded by at least five of them. Their fates were sealed if there was no additional support.


    Theres no need to be worried. They might just leave on their own ord as long as we dont anger them, the captain said.


    He didnt see a middle-aged man and a girl staring at the Green Eyes Torrent Beasts with terrified eyes.


    Green Eyes Torrent Beasts Fang Chen examined these sea beasts.


    He didnt encounter them while he was making his way to the Cloudless Monastery.


    This was his first time seeing sea beasts in such close proximity, and they were quite different fromnd beasts. For instance, they appeared to have muchrger physiques.


    These sea beasts probably have never been cultivated before. They are naturally born with such power, Fang Chen murmured.


    Beasts were different from faes like Victorious Buddha.


    The former could be born with great strength, but theycked intelligence. In contrast, thetter could start off weak, but when they be cultivators, they could attain enlightenment even at Ki Refinement.


    Just the size of the Green Eyes Torrent Beast was alreadyparable to the boat. That, together with their innate cultivation, easily made them a dominant force in the ocean.


    The crowd waited seconds, but the Green Eyes Torrent Beasts showed no signs of leaving. Instead, they kept attacking the boat, causing the spirit ki barrier around it to slowly dim.


    Captain, how long will the spirit ki barrierst? a cultivator anxiously asked.


    At the current rate of depletion, we would be expending over 50 low-grade ki stones per hour. We wont be able tost long at this rate! The captain was in despair. I have traveled this path for decades now, but I have never encountered a Green Eyes Torrent Beast. Why would they suddenly appear today


    Its him! His breakthrough must have attracted the Green Eyes Torrent Beasts! a cultivator pointed at Fang Chen and roared.


    Now that they were in danger, they couldnt care less about what Fang Chens background was. They were simply angry that he had dragged them down.


    Why did you make a breakthrough here? Dont you know how treacherous the waters are? someone bellowed.


    Fang Chen was just about to bring out little sword to y the Green Eyes Torrent Beasts when he heard those words and halted.


    A boat ising!


    This is wonderful! We might be able to turn things around if they are willing to help!


    A cultivator was excited when he noticed a massive ck boat steering over from afar.


    It didnt take long for the boat toe close to them. The surrounding Green Eyes Torrent Beasts stopped their assault, as if waiting for something.


    The daoists on that boat, we have been surrounded by Green Eyes Torrent Beasts. Please lend us a helping hand. Well make sure to thank you well for it! the captain shouted.


    The crowd waited expectantly for the response from the massive ck boat. Secondster, a figure appeared at the front of the boat. It was a young man dressed in a blue shirt.


    He looked at the crowd and said, Dont fear, Im rearing these Green Eyes Torrent Beasts.


    The crowd fell silent.


    <em>These Green Eyes Torrent Beasts are reared by that young man? What kind of powerful means is that? Even a Foundation Establishment cultivator would struggle to tame such a sea beast </em>


    The captainsplexion turned awful, as the earlier attacks from the Green Eyes Torrent Beasts had cost him a huge amount of ki stones. Secondster, he squeezed out a smile and said, Since its a misunderstanding, well get on our way.


    No rush. The young man raised his hand. Im looking for two people. I suspect they are currently on your boat. Hand them over to me, and Ill allow you to leave.


    The crowd exchanged grim looks. Those words suggested that the earlier attack from the Green Eyes Torrent Beasts was intentional!


    May I know who youre looking for? the captain asked.


    The young man chuckled. Who was the one behind the anomalous spirit ki pulsations earlier? They are the ones Im looking for.


    The crowd looked at Fang Chen.


    The young man was startled. He eyed Fang Chen from head to toe and frowned. You were the one who caused the anomalous spirit ki pulsations?


    Yes, he made a breakthrough on the boat.


    Youre the one who brought trouble to us!


    A lot of cultivators angrily red at Fang Chen.


    I dont think Im acquainted with you, Fang Chen told the young man with a smile.


    It looks like I got the wrong person. The young man nodded. But why cant I see through your cultivation? Are you at Foundation Establishment?


    It was only then that the others realized that Fang Chens aura was no different from an ordinary person. It was impossible to discern his cultivation.


    I have practiced a method to conceal my aura, Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    Ah. The young man nodded. His nose twitched, and his eyes fell on Liu Mu. Is this a medicine boy? Is he nurturing poison?


    Hes a malevolent cultivator?!


    I was wondering why that child was so smelly


    The crowd looked at Fang Chen in a different light.


    Malevolent cultivators were both hated and feared in the world of cultivation. They tended to be vicious people who wouldnt hesitate to kill at the slightest verbal disagreement.


    Indeed. Fang Chen nodded.


    I am interested in him. Would you be willing to give him to me? The young man smiled.


    There was a moment of silence before Fang Chen shook his head. I have a use for him.


    Have you heard of the Sea Dragon Sect? The young man didnt lose his temper despite the rejection.


    S-Sea Dragon Sect


    Many of the cultivators onboard were stunned.


    Thats a powerful sect backed by a Golden Core cultivator! Heavens! He is a Sea Dragon Sects cultivator


    Pardon myck of respect. I didnt know you were from the Sea Dragon Sect! the captain sped his fist and apologized with an utmost respectful attitude. He wasnt even angry over the earlier sea beast attack anymore.


    Ive never heard of it. Fang Chen shook his head.


    The other cultivators silently looked at Fang Chen.


    You dont know? Its fine. The young man chuckled. He turned around and returned to his boat. Kill everyone onboard.


    The next second, the Green Eyes Torrent Beasts began to attack the boat. Fright filled the eyes of the cultivators onboard.


    Someone red at Fang Chen and hollered, Youre dragging us down with you by offending the Sea Dragon Sect!


    Kill him and hand him over to the Sea Dragon Sects cultivator! He might spare us!


    Some of the cultivators took out their artifacts to make a move on Fang Chen.


    Cultivators are an unruly bunch, resorting to violence whenever they think they have the upper hand. Fang Chen sighed.


    What other choice did he have in this situation? He could only curb violence with violence!

 Chapter 236: I’ll Give It a Try

    Chapter 236: I¡¯ll Give It a Try


    Quite a few cultivators walked toward Fang Chen, with some of them having already whipped out their artifacts.


    But the next moment, little sword whizzed forth and pierced through the heads of the five Green Eyes Torrent Beasts. Fresh blood gushed from their heads, dyeing the ocean red.


    The cultivators who had wanted to attack Fang Chen froze on the spot, with cold sweat dripping from their faces.


    The young man who was returning to his boat halted his footsteps, and hisplexion turned awful. Blood seeped from the corner of his lips.


    Young sect master, are you fine?!


    Those around the young man anxiously rushed forward to support him.


    The young sect masters Green Eyes Torrent Beasts have been killed!


    The young mans face looked awful. He returned to his deck and intently eyed the Green Eyes Torrent Beasts, who were floating on the water with their bellies flipped upward.


    Little sword had already returned to Fang Chens side and was circling around him, ready to deal with any attacks.


    Is he a sword cultivator? a cultivator on the boat murmured.


    Those who were nning to attack Fang Chen were gasped in shock when they heard the words sword cultivator. They nearly dropped their artifacts, and they stared at Fang Chen in utmost incredulity.


    Were you the one who killed my Green Eyes Torrent Beasts? The young man looked at Fang Chen and the little sword circling around him.


    You can say so, Fang Chen replied.


    The young mans face further darkened. Whats your background?


    And I should tell you because? Fang Chen refuted with a smile.


    Secondster, the young man slowly nodded. Very well, I shall remember this grudge. We will meet again.


    He turned around and left.


    However, Fang Chen burst intoughter. You were the one who wanted to kill me, but now youre trying to escape. Isnt that unbing of someone of your stature? The Sea Dragon Sect should be quite a famous sect, judging from their reactions.


    The captain was choked up. He wanted Fang Chen to let this matter rest, so that they could survive this ordeal. Even if the Sea Dragon Sect sought vengeance, they would only go after Fang Chen.


    But if Fang Chen blew this matter up, they could be dragged into it too.


    You want to attack me? The young mans footsteps halted. He looked at Fang Chen with an enigmatic smile. Our Sea Dragon Sect is backed by a Golden Core cultivator. May I know what kind of backing does your sect have? Someone who doesnt dare to report his identity should know his ce and step down. Your sect cant shoulder the consequences of your arrogance.


    He then eyed little sword and scoffed, Dont say that youre a sword cultivator. There are indeed sword cultivators in the world, but a sword cultivator wouldnt stoop down to boarding a boat.


    The crowd widened their eyes in realization.


    <em>The person before us probably isnt a sword cultivator; hes just someone who happens to have a flying sword as an artifact. Sword cultivators are capable of sword flight, and the speeds they can travel at are far superior to that of ordinary cultivators. </em>


    Speechless? the young man sneered.


    Youre saying that I cant kill you because Im not a sword cultivator? Fang Chenughed.


    Kill me? The ridicule in the young mans eyes deepened. Do you know the consequences of killing me?


    He is our Sea Dragon Sects young sect master. Anyone who touches a single hair of our young sect master will pay with their lives, no matter their backing! a cultivator beside the young man roared.


    <em>Sea Dragon Sects young sect master?!</em>


    The crowd was shaken up.


    The captain looked at Fang Chen with pleading eyes. Sire, why dont we let this matter pass


    You must be quite strong to be able to kill my five Green Eyes Torrent Beasts Im guessing youre at least at eleventh stage Ki Refinement? I concede that we cant do anything about you, but are you sure you can harm us too? the young man sneered.


    Our boat is a 36 daosoul imprints artifact, a mid Yellow-grade artifact. Can your flying sword even leave a mark on our boat?


    Ah!


    The crowd looked at the massive ck boat and gasped.


    <em>36 daosoul imprints? Most Foundation Establishment cultivators wouldnt even have an artifact of that caliber. Only pinnacle Foundation Establishment cultivators might have one or two of such artifacts. </em>


    Boat artifacts were different from other artifacts. Their sole purpose was to safely ferry its passengers across the ocean to their destination, and they could be powered by ki stones. However, it was rare to find boats of such high tier.


    Probably only the Sea Dragon Sect would have something like that.


    Shall I give it a try?


    Fang Chen was curious to know if little sword could deal with such an artifact. He was also curious to know how strong little sword could grow if it devoured such an artifact. Perhaps, it might just grow strong enough to unlock its legacy!


    Give it a try then! The young man looked at Fang Chen with mocking eyes from the ck boat.


    Very well. Fang Chen nodded.


    Little sword darted toward the young man.


    An incredibly thick spirit ki barrier instantaneously enveloped the ck boat. It was almost three meters thick!


    The young man stood calmly behind the barrier as his smile widened.


    What a thick barrier! Even a hundred Green Eyes Torrent Beasts wouldnt be able to breach such a barrier.


    Of course! That barrier is strong enough to fend against a Foundation Establishment sea beast, as long as they had enough ki stones to power the barrier.


    Fang Chen heard the cultivators gossiping among themselves.


    Shockingly, little sword pierced right through the ck boats spirit ki barrier and plunged into the young mans head before flying out from the opposite end, leaving a blood trail in its wake.


    It works. Fang Chen chuckled.


    That gave him a deeper grasp of little swords destructive prowess.


    Young sect master!


    The cultivators around the young man howled, as their faces crumbled in despair.


    Kill them all, Fang Chen mumbled.


    Little sword morphed into a sh of silver light and massacred everyone on the ck boat.


    Their spirit ki barriers and defense artifacts were as flimsy as tofu before little sword. Bodies copsed all around the ck boats, leaving quite a gruesome sight.


    In a matter of seconds, everyone on the ck boat was dead.


    Y-you killed the Sea Dragon Sects young sect master The captain stared at Fang Chen with frightened eyes.


    Is there a problem? Fang Chen smiled.


    The captain dared not to let out a squeak. The other cultivators also lowered their heads, not daring to look Fang Chen in the eye.


    Those who had tried to attack Fang Chen earlier quietly retreated, but the next second, they were met with a sh of silver light. All of them copsed with bloodied gorges on their temples.


    Dont kill us! Dont kill us! We wont rat on you!


    The other cultivators kneeled down in fright, including the captain.


    They tried to kill me earlier, so I settled the grudge, Fang Chen cidly exined. He stowed away the possessions of those cultivators.


    The survivors breathed a sigh of relief.


    The captain mustered his courage and said, S-Sire, now that ck boat is yours, why dont you ride on that instead? Think of it as showing mercy to me, all right? If the Sea Dragon Sect learns that I have ferried you, theyll murder me and my family

 Chapter 237: Five Elements Art

    Chapter 237: Five Elements Art


    Fang Chen eyed the captain, followed by the survivors, and said, Hand over your nautical chart, and Ill ede to your request.


    Captain, hurry up and give the nautical chart to him! the other cultivators eximed.


    The captain hesitated. Nautical charts were worth a lot. Cultivators who did business on the ocean treated it as their greatest treasure, and they would never easily show it to others.


    Reluctant? Then well follow our previous deal. Send me to my destination. Fang Chen smiled.


    Sire, this is my nautical chart. It only has one path, but its worth at least 400 to 500 low-grade ki stones on the market. The captain clenched his jaws and passed a jade seal to Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen infused his spirit ki into the jade seal, and a well-charted route appeared before him. This route stopped by dozens of ports, and the final destination was Infernoze Country.


    Farewell.


    Fang Chen grabbed Liu Mu and leaped onto the ck boat.


    The captain hurriedly steered the boat away, only to hear Fang Chens voice. Stop. You havent refunded my traveling fee yet.


    Of course, of course. The captain nodded as he tossed some ki stones to Fang Chen.


    Thats not enough. Fang Chen shook his head. Driving this ck boat will cost an exorbitant sum of ki stones. I wont ask for too much; how does 300 low-grade ki stones sound?


    The captains face turned pale.


    300 low-grade ki stones was not a small sum. He would have made a loss for this trip if he gave that sum to Fang Chen. Thus, he turned to the other cultivators and said, Why dont we put our ki stones together?


    The other cultivators were reluctant to give up on their ki stones, but they knew there was no choice here. Right now, Fang Chen was the god of gue to them, and they were desperate to send him on his way.


    Thus, they gritted their teeth and pulled out some ki stones too. In the end, they collectively raised 300 low-grade ki stones and tossed it over to Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen epted the ki stones before waving the captain off. You may leave now.


    The boat sliced through the water and disappeared from Fang Chens sight at the fastest speed possible.


    Fang Chen first drew out his soul to confirm that there were no survivors hidden on the boat. Then, he began to assimte the ck boat.


    Little sword was starving, but it obediently stayed by Fang Chens side. Even a Foundation Establishment cultivator would have to be wary of its counterattack if they tried to make a move on Fang Chen.


    Two hourster, Fang Chen depleted his spirit ki, but he hadnt even assimted a thirtieth of the ck boat yet. An ordinary cultivator would have given up by then, but Fang Chens spirit ki would recover with a vengeance upon beingpletely depleted.


    His spirit ki quickly recovered, and he continued assimting the ck boat.


    A few days passed in a sh.


    The ck boat suddenly glowed with a faint light.


    Fang Chen opened his eyes. He had finally fully assimted the boat.


    However, he couldnt stow it inside him because it wasnt an ego artifact, and his storage ring wasnt big enough to hold it. Thus, he made up his mind to feed it to little sword after reaching shore.


    36 daosoul imprints. What a pity, Fang Chen murmured.


    Little sword noticed that Fang Chen had sessfully assimted the boat and anxiously shook around, Hungry, hungry!


    Calm down. Here you go. Fang Chen smiled.


    He searched the young man and the other cultivators bodies and confirmed that they no longer had anything of value before torching them with a couple of fireballs. Then, he threw their ashes into the sea.


    Interesting. As expected of a young sect master. He has 300 low-grade ki stones, and two artifacts. His storage ring is also muchrger than minea 27 meters cube area.


    He first assimted the storage ring before transferring everything from his old storage ring over.


    There are nine artifacts with more than ten daosoul imprints. This shirt looks quite interesting. Ill keep it for now.


    In Fang Chens hand was what appeared to be an ordinary blue shirt, but he couldnt damage it no matter how he tugged at it. He even tried hurling ice arrows and fireballs at it, but it was to no avail.


    Leaving just the blue shirt behind, he tossed the rest to little sword.


    Little sword joyfully devoured everything. Its aura fluctuated unstably, but it still hungrily eyed the blue shirt in Fang Chens hands.


    Not this one. I have a use for it. Fang Chen shook his head.


    He did a rough calction of his current fortunehe had 1500 low-grade ki stones in his storage ring. He brought out 300 ki stones with him, and he obtained another 300 ki stones from the captain and the other passengers. The rest was from the Sea Dragon Sects cultivators.


    I have 1500 ki stones and 50 pinnacle Purple Lightning Talismans. I should finish all my spirit materials by the time I reach Infernoze. I should start practicing the Five Elements Art.


    Fang Chen headed to the ck boats core. There was a formation there where the ki stones were to be ced to power the artifact. There were still a hundred low-grade ki stones there.


    I wonder if its enough for me to reach Infernoze.


    Fang Chens spirit ki flickered, and the ck boat began swiftly sailing toward Infernoze in ordance with the nautical charts pathing. His spirit ki was just a trigger to control the ck boats movement; what was truly powering it were the ki stones.


    Shortly after setting off, Fang Chen assimted the blue shirt.


    Other than its resistance to fire and water, it was also stretchable, allowing for afortable fit.


    This shirt is worth twelve daosoul imprints. It should be capable of more than this, Fang Chen mumbled as he slowly infused his spirit ki into it.


    The blue shirt emanated a brilliant golden light, forming a thick spirit ki barrier. Its defensive prowess was formidable. It was doubtful whether Fang Chen would have been able to breach it if he relied solely on his Purple Lightning Talismans.


    This is a bargain. Fang Chen chuckled.


    With that, he took out the jade seal containing the Five Elements Art and began practicing it.


    Dayster, on the deck of the ck boat, Fang Chen gently waved his hand, and a terrifying wave was drawn over via his spirit ki, forming a massive python of over 300 meters in length.


    He waved his hand once more, and a second water python appeared.


    Maintaining these two water pythons was extremely demanding on his spirit ki. It only took five minutes for him to deplete all his spirit ki.


    The reverend of the Cloudless Monastery might have been at twelfth stage Ki Refinement, but given that his immortal veins were far less sturdier and thinner than Fang Chens, his spirit ki capacity should be roughly the same. It was likely that he could have only maintained the earth dragons for around five minutes too.


    The Five Elements Art uses spirit ki to manipte the surrounding environment to cause great devastation. I am only able to conjure water pythons of over 300 meters long here because the water spirit ki is richer in the ocean.


    If I am onnd, I would only be able to manipte earth spirit ki. As for metal, wood, and fire, that would take specific terrains, or else its prowess would be greatly discounted, Fang Chen concluded his findings.


    He had already grasped the Five Elements Art.


    The principles behind the skill were simple, so there was no grade to them. Its strength depended on how strong the cultivator was, as well as their subtle understanding of the five elements ki.


    Since theres a way to control the five elements, there should be a method to control lightning too. But lightning ki is much more violent and potent, so such methods should be rare toe by.


    With such a thought in mind, Fang Chen took out his brush, Thunderjolt Wood Talisman Papers, and Nine Tribtions Cinnabar, and began drawing talismans.

 Chapter 238: Pursuers

    Chapter 238: Pursuers


    Fang Chen spent his days on the ocean busy with all sorts of things, but these were also the most fruitful and worriless days he had since bing a cultivator.


    He felt like he had be an adventurer, freely wandering the world without anything to tie him down.


    He would watch the sunrise and sunset every day with a clear mind, without having to worry about scheming or be schemed against. Whenever he felt lonely, he would chat with little sword or watch the scenery along the way.


    There was once he encountered a terrible lightning storm. The sky crackled with thunderous booms, and the clouds fell so low that it felt like the lightning was right above him. Coming so close to such a devastating force made him feel insignificant and helpless.


    A cultivators Three Cmities and Three Tribtions was a fight against the world, and the lightning tribtion was one of the trials they had to ovee. Without an unwavering heart, their fear would disadvantage them even before the fight began.


    Fang Chen knew that it was only a matter of time before he had to go against such terrors if he continued on this journey. He wasnt sure if he would be prepared when that day came.


    He had 100 pinnacle Purple Lightning Talismans in his storage ring now, but he had impaired one of the talismans brushes, and he only had 100 Thunderjolt Wooden Talisman Papers and around 100 grams of Nine Tribtions Cinnabar left.


    He stopped drawing talismans at that point.


    While drawing talismans was part of his training too, it was slowerpared to practicing the Five Elements Art. It was enough for him to have 100 pinnacle Purple Lightning Talismans in his storage ring, so it was time to prioritize raising his cultivation.


    In the days toe, some of the captains traveling across the ocean would spot a massive ck boat being protected by two massive water serpents that were over 300 meters long.


    All cultivators could tell that it was the Five Elements Art, but it was still a bizarre sight because they knew how much the Five Elements Art depleted ones spirit ki.


    No cultivator would squander their spirit ki in such a manner unless they were certain of their safety. Otherwise, they would be put in a spot if they encountered danger while they were low on spirit ki.


    Half a monthter, a huge amount of spirit ki began flowing into Fang Chens body. His tenth immortal vein was taking shape!


    Liu Mu quietly watched this sight with awe.


    In the days he spent following Fang Chen, he came to realize how hardworking Great Xias number one War God Fang was. Thetter trained almost 24 hours a day, only asionally spending some time to rest and chat with him about things he didnt really understand.


    Some timeter, Fang Chen slowly opened his eyes. Light shed across his eyes.


    He had sessfully forged his tenth immortal vein.


    He tried to control the surrounding water spirit ki once more. This time, he was able to conjure three massive water pythons that were 300 meters in length. They slithered and coiled around the ck boat. He maintained them for around five minutes before finally running out of spirit ki.


    Then, his spirit ki recovered as fast as before.


    My spirit ki capacity should have exceeded ordinary twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivators. I doubt that the reverend of the Cloudless Monastery can simultaneously control three massive water pythons of such sizes, Fang Chen murmured.


    He was neither proud norcent. Having crossed blows with the old daoist, he had a feeling that his current spirit ki capacity was on par with thetter. This highlighted the massive difference that could arise from a difference in cultivation methods.


    The immortal veins forged through the Three Thousand Dao Gates initiate manual were both thick and pure, and they built a solid foundation for him.


    I have to head to the Three Thousand Dao Gates to obtain the cultivation methods beyond Foundation Establishment, so Ill have to make my way to the Central Continent Country after reaching Foundation Establishment.


    Fang Chen was filled with curiosity about this legendary country. He wondered what sights he would see there, as well as how powerful those sects with sect ancestors would be.


    I have heard of the Central Continent Country even when I was still a mortal, and it was said to be and filled with immortals. No one in Great Xia has seen it before, but its legend spreads far and wide. Fang Chen chuckled. He turned to Liu Mu and asked, Liu Mu, have you heard about the Central Continent Country?


    Liu Mu nodded.


    His grandfather had once told him about it when he was younger, and there were also storybooks that described the mystical Central Continent Country. However, he couldnt help but wonder if the Central Continent Country truly existed.


    It is a truend of immortals, where powerful sect ancestors reside. You should pay a visit there if you ever get a chance, Fang Chen said with a smile.


    Liu Mu was taken aback. His eyes appeared to be asking <em>Can I really do that?</em>


    Fang Chen chuckled in response before turning his attention back to the Five Elements Art.


    Other than advancing his cultivation to tenth stage Ki Refinement, he also became more adept at controlling the water spirit ki. That greatly boosted the usage efficiency of his spirit ki.


    Now, he could even clearly conjure the scales on the water pythons.


    This change didnt just affect the appearance of his conjuring. The enhanced precision of his spirit ki control also greatly boosted the prowess of his water pythons.


    Little sword could easily pierce right through Fang Chens water pythons before, but now it had to take them a little more seriously now.


    Ten dayster, Fang Chen finally spottednd in the distance.


    ording to the nautical map, what was before him was Infernozes territory, though Infernozesnd mass was almost a thousand timesrger than Great Xia.


    At the same time, three boats appeared behind him. These boats werent as big as the ck boat, but they didnt pale too much inparison. They were all mid Yellow-grade artifacts, with around 10 to 20 daosoul imprints.


    Upon noticing the ck boat, these three boats hastened their speed, revealing their daosoul imprints.


    Fang Chen had the ck boat race toward Infernozes territory. At the same time, he drew out his soul to observe the other ships.


    Our young sect master has been killed, and a Snake-grade boat has been stolen. It doesnt make sense that the culprit isnt at Foundation Establishment. However, the witnesses all im that the culprit is only at Ki Refinement. What do you think?


    A group of Ki Refinement cultivators were gathered on one of the boats.


    The weakest of them was at tenth stage Ki Refinement, and a couple of them had even reached twelfth stage Ki Refinement, making them no weaker than the Cloudless Monasterys reverend.


    The one who just spoke was a twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator who looked to be around seventy to eighty years of age. He had a vicious face, and his left eye was empty, a sign that he had suffered severe injury before.


    They said that the Snake-grade boats spirit ki barrier failed to stop the culprits sword. Is there a chance the culprit is a sword cultivator? another twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator said.


    <em>Sword cultivator?</em>


    The faces of the others darkened. They had harbored such guesses too. <em>Who else other than a sword cultivator could achieve such a feat at Ki Refinement?</em>


    They knew how formidable the Snake-grade boats defensive prowess was. As long as there were sufficient ki stones, it could even stop a Foundation Establishment for quite some time.


    None of them wanted to make an enemy out of a sword cultivator, having heard about their reputation, but the one who had died was their Sea Dragon Sects young sect master, a direct descendent of their Golden Core old ancestor.


    They couldnt back down here.


    Fang Chens soul eyed them from the sky.


    <em>In total, the three boats have 8 twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivators, and there are many more cultivators at tenth and eleventh stage. If I were to go against so many experts at once Id be put in a spot once I deplete all my Purple Lightning Talismans.</em>


    As powerful as little sword was, it needed to be channeled with spirit ki, and he didnt have enough spirit ki to channel it for long. While his spirit ki would swiftly recover afterward, there was a small gap in between. That would be a fatal weakness for him in a prolonged battle.

 Chapter 239: Grasping the Initiative

    Chapter 239: Grasping the Initiative


    E-everyone I have already told you everything I know. There is no falsehood in my words, and you have caught up with that fellow too Please, spare our lives and allow us to leave, the captain said with a tearful face.


    Shortly after parting ways with Fang Chen, the captain and the other passengers were captured by the Sea Dragon Sects cultivators. They didnt want to make an enemy out of the Sea Dragon Sect, but neither did they want to offend Fang Chen too. They simply wanted to stay out of it.


    That fellow is right on that boat. Im sure you can easily suppress him with your means. Theres no reason for us to stay here.


    I-Im going to visit a friend in the Beast Spirit Valley. Please let me go on his ount


    The captain and the other passengers desperately pleaded for mercy. In contrast, a middle-aged man and a little girl were rtively quieter in the crowd, but it was also for that reason that no cultivators noticed them.


    Youre visiting a friend in the Beast Spirit Valley? The twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator who lost an eyeughed. Do you think that our Sea Dragon Sect would be intimidated by the Beast Spirit Valley? It might be a top sect in your Infernoze, but its nothing in our eyes.


    Of course, of course! The Beast Spirit Valley cant possibly measure up to the Sea Dragon Sect. I have spoken out of ce, the cultivator immediately caved in.


    Theplexion of the one-eyed cultivator alleviated. We wont make things difficult for you as long as you have nothing to do with our young sect masters death. However, words are empty. You need to wait for us to apprehend the culprit, and only then can we prove your innocence.


    Fear flickered across the eyes of the captain and the passengers.


    In the end, they were still going to be implicated in this. Some of them hated Fang Chen for dragging them into this mess. If not for him, they could have safely reached Infernoze instead of being imprisoned and treated like criminals for two whole months!


    Meanwhile, many of the cultivators by the shore also noticed the anomaly in the ocean.


    Some recognized the Snake-grade boat Fang Chen was driving, and they also noticed the three huge boats behind it. They knew that all four boats belonged to the Sea Dragon Sect.


    News quickly reached the upper echelons. A female cultivator led ten other cultivators to the port to take a look.


    Young miss, it is the Sea Dragon Sects boat, an old man confirmed with a suppressed voice.


    The Sea Dragon Sect rarely visits our port. Something must have happened. That boat over there is one of the Sea Dragon Sects Snake-grade boats. Do you think theres a Foundation Establishment cultivator onboard? a young cultivator grimly asked.


    This port belonged to the Bai n, a cultivator n. The female cultivator was the Bai ns powerful first miss, Bai Qianqian.


    In terms of the Bai ns hierarchy, she was only beneath that of the patriarch and their Foundation Establishment old ancestor, who had long gone into seclusion training. She had already begun taking up many responsibilities in the Bai n.


    This port was the Bai nsrgest and most important business.


    Any boats that stopped here had to pay them some ki stones.


    Aside from that, there were also treasures to be acquired from the ocean, such as the sea beasts inner cores, and it wasmon for cultivators to sell those items here at this port. These made lucrative business for the Bai n.


    However, there were many of such ports. The Bai n was no more than an antpared to the Sea Dragon Sect, and they didnt have any business dealing with them either, presumably because the Sea Dragon Sect didnt have a high opinion of the Bai n.


    Thus, the sight of the Sea Dragon Sects boat unnerved the Bai n.


    Young miss, should we call our old ancestor here? the old man asked.


    Bai Qianqian thought about it, but she shook her head. Dont trouble him. Hes in a critical phase of his seclusion training. Disturbing him at this juncture will impede his cultivation.


    She paused for a second before adding, Let them sail to shore first. Figure out the intent behind their arrival, and well try our best to fulfill their demands.


    With that, the crowd looked at the four boats in the ocean with worried faces. Time seemed to have stopped in the port, as everyone put down what they were doing and awaited the arrival of those boats.


    Meanwhile, Fang Chen brought his soul back to his body and spent a moment in thought. He already had an idea in mind.


    Little sword morphed into a silver sh and whizzed toward one of the boats with terrifying momentum.


    He dares to attack us! The one-eyed cultivator was taken aback. He roared, Stop that sword!


    Countless artifacts rose to the sky in hopes of stopping little sword.


    Trash!


    Fang Chen seemed to hear little swords taunt, then all of the artifacts simultaneously shattered. Little sword charged forth with unstoppable momentum before piercing through the one-eyed cultivators forehead.


    The twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivators on the other two boats finally snapped out of their daze, and they were horrified. The one-eyed cultivator had already put up his spirit ki barrier, but even so, the flying sword still killed him with ease.


    Little sword returned to Fang Chens side after ying the enemy.


    In this single strike, little sword overcame eight artifacts and breached a twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivators spirit ki barrier and killed him. These feats had emptied out Fang Chens spirit ki, and he was currently swiftly recovering it.


    As he had expected, the enemy didnt counterattack right away.


    No matter how one looked at it, Fang Chens earlier attack resembled the means of a sword cultivator. Those two words were enough to intimidate all of the cultivators present, and that was the effect he intended!


    <em>As long as they dare not charge at me all at once, Ill be able to catch a breather and recover my spirit ki.</em>


    Manager Li Tianluo is dead!


    The Sea Dragon Sects cultivators exchanged looks. The remaining twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivators felt goosebumps. If Li Tianluo hadnt stood at the forefront, they might have been the ones to suffer that fate!


    To cultivate for decades, only to die in a matter of seconds


    The faces of the captain and the other passengers turned increasingly pale, as they hadnt expected Fang Chen to be so powerful as to snipe down a twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator right as the battle began.


    No wonder they say that sword cultivators are lunatics and monsters Despite being at Ki Refinement, his sword wields the prowess of a Foundation Establishment cultivator someone murmured.


    In the Bai ns port, Bai Qianqian was utterly stunned. What just happened?


    The old man beside her was utterly shocked too. He suppressed his astonishment and replied, Young miss, something is amiss, The person on the Snake-grade boat just killed a twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator with his sword.


    All of the Bai ns cultivators were gripped by shock. This was their first time seeing a twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator being killed with such ease, as if an elephant trampling on an ant.


    The Bai ns port descended into silence.


    It took some time before Bai Qianqian replied, The Sea Dragon Sect wouldnt engage in infighting in public. Someone must have stolen one of their boats.


    The old man nodded, having guessed as much.


    The Bai n had no intention of getting involved in this matter. Someone who dared to make a move against the Sea Dragon Sect was anything but ordinary. At the very least, he wouldnt be someone whom the Bai n could offend.


    And that earlier attack reminded him of a legend!


    While the crowd was gripped with shock, Fang Chen had already regained his spirit ki, and he unleashed his sword once more.


    This time, he didnt kill any cultivators, but he destroyed one of the boats. The Sea Dragon Sects cultivators hurriedly escaped to the other two remaining boats.


    One of the twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivators turned toward Fang Chen and bellowed, You must be determined to be mortal enemies of our Sea Dragon Sect!


    Those words told Bai Qianqian and the others that the person with the flying sword was not a member of the Sea Dragon Sect.

 Chapter 240: Retreat

    Chapter 240: Retreat


    Whos that? He dares to kill even the Sea Dragon sects cultivators!


    He even stole the Sea Dragon Sects Snake-grade boat! Thats a 36 daosoul imprint artifact right there. Even the Sea Dragon Sect only has a small handful of boats of that caliber!


    Ah


    Such discussions could be heard in the Bai ns port. The cultivators were shocked, as they couldnt imagine anyone daring to make a move against the Sea Dragon Sect.


    Fang Chens response toward the Sea Dragon Sects threat was simple.


    Little sword morphed into a silver sh once more and slew the cultivator who uttered those threats before returning to his side. The other Sea Dragon Sects cultivators dared not to say anything else when they saw the fresh corpse in front of them.


    To their horror, the ck boat turned around and began cruising toward them.


    You Sea Dragon Sects cultivators should be more than just talk, right? Arent you going to make a move? Fang Chen looked at the remaining 6 twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivators and smiled.


    Terror could be seen reflected in those sixs eyes. They wouldnt dare to make a move when two of their peers had already fallen in session. They feared that they would be the next one.


    There was a moment of silence before another twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator bolstered his courage and said, You killed our young sect master, so


    Psh!


    Little sword pierced through his forehead before he could finish his sentence.


    A sword cultivator! Hes definitely a sword cultivator!


    The remaining 5 twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivators were shaken up. The other cultivators fellpletely silent. They had never witnessed anything like this since they started cultivating.


    Even Foundation Establishment cultivators would treat them with respect; who would dare disrespect their Sea Dragon Sect in this region? They would risk drawing their Golden Core old ancestors wrath upon them if they did so!


    Yet, this sword cultivator was fearless. He killed their young sect master, and he didnt hesitate to kill them here too.


    The captain and the passengers who had previously traveled with Fang Chen hung their heads, not daring to look him in the eye.


    Cut the crap and make a move, Fang Chen insisted with a smile.


    We lucked out this time. He really is a sword cultivator. Those people are a bunch of madmen. Even our old ancestors wouldnt want to make an enemy out of a sword cultivator. Who knows if theres a bigger madman behind them?


    Should we retreat first? This matter is beyond us.


    Lets retreat.


    After a quick telepathic exchange, the remaining twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivators came to a consensus. They immediately turned tail and fled, not daring to even leave threats behind.


    Fang Chen quietly watched as they fled with disdain in their eyes.


    <em>If these cultivators had any tenacity in them, I would have been dead meat. </em>


    In the Bai ns port, Bai Qianqian and the others exchanged looks. They could see the shock and incredulity in one anothers eyes.


    The battle on the ocean wasnt particrly intense; in fact, it was short and peaceful. It would take a cultivator to understand just how tense the situation had been.


    3 twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivators had lost their lives just like that


    Only a power at the level of the Sea Dragon Sect could withstand such a loss. Had it been the Bai n instead, it would have spelled losing half of their military might.


    What shocked them more was how quickly the Sea Dragon Sects cultivators fled. They didnt even leave threats behind. Such a matter was unheard of!


    Young miss, t-the boat is heading toward our port one of the Bai ns cultivators stuttered.


    Bai Qianqian quelled her shock and calmly replied, This matter has nothing to do with our Bai n. We shall neither side with the Sea Dragon Sect nor that man. I suspect that hes a sword cultivator.


    A sword cultivator


    This was a term that terrified yet intrigued the cultivators.


    Infernoze had no sword cultivator legacy. Only in grade-5 state could one catch a glimpse or two of the rarely-seen sword cultivators.


    Lunatics. Combat freaks. Unrivaled swordsmanship. Absolute destructive prowess.


    These were some of the terms that were often associated with sword cultivators. There was nothing more scary than a sword cultivator with a proper legacy; there was no saying just how terrifying their backgrounds were.


    I once heard of a rumor while wandering the world of cultivation, the old man beside Bai Qianqian slowly spoke up with a grim expression. Many, many years ago, in a grade-1 state, a powerful sect once faced the simultaneous assault of 100,000 sword cultivators. Their sect was thoroughly destroyed, and their legacy ended right there


    100,000 sword cultivators


    Just imagining that sight made shivers go down their spine.


    Meanwhile, the ck boat had alreadynded on shore.


    Bai Qianqian and the others dared not to wee him. There was not a single person in the port who dared to strike conversation with that person. They quietly watched him from afar.


    I dont need this boat anymore, and I cant stow it away in my storage ring. Youre a lucky one. Lets hope you undergo a metamorphosis after eating it, Fang Chen told little sword.


    Little sword was excited. It began devouring the ck boat.


    The boat contained a huge amount of spirit metals. Judging from little swords devouring speed, it would likely take at least half a day.


    Time passed, but Fang Chen didnt alight from the boat.


    In the end, Bai Qianqian bucked up her courage and led her subordinates toward the boat.


    Elder


    What is it? Fang Chen walked to the side of the boat and gazed down on Bai Qianqian.


    Hes young The crowd gasped.


    Bai Qianqian was momentarily stunned before she quickly continued, Elder, are you nning oning ashore? I am the manager in charge of this port.


    Youre here to request payment? I wont be stopping my boat here. Fang Chen smiled.


    Ah, theres no need for that! Bai Qianqian quickly waved her hand.


    The crowd breathed a sigh of relief. <em>As long as he doesnt stop the Snake-grade boat here, the Bai n shouldnt be implicated when the Sea Dragon Sect finallyes knocking.</em>


    Bai Qianqian exchanged a few more words with Fang Chen before respectfully taking her leave. The group of them moved a distance away to warily eye Fang Chens movements from afar.


    Slowly, they sensed that something was amiss. The Sea Dragon Sects Snake-grade boat was being broken down!


    I see. He doesnt want to return that boat to the Sea Dragon Sect, but he cant bring it with him either, so he decided to destroy it The old man beside Bai Qianqian nodded in realization.


    The others frowned. <em>As expected of a sword cultivator. He sure is vindictive. I must never make an enemy out of someone like that. </em>


    Half a dayter, the ck boat was finally fully devoured by little sword. Its aura became exceptionally powerful, and it quickly dived back into Fang Chens body.


    Slowly digest it, Fang Chen remarked with a smile before leaving the port with Liu Mu.


    Young miss, should we a cultivator spoke up.


    Bai Qianqian red at him. Dont even think about it! We cant offend either side. Well just speak the truth when the Sea Dragon Sect arrives.


    Yes, young miss! the cultivator replied with a lowered head.


    But Bai Qianqian didnt notice a little worm in his sleeves flying toward Fang Chens direction.

 Chapter 241: Eight Barrens Immortal Subjugation Peerless Swordsmanship

    Chapter 241: Eight Barrens Immortal Subjugation Peerless Swordsmanship


    Infernoze was split into two regions, north and south. The South Heaven Sect was located in the northern region, whereas the Beast Spirit Valley was located in the southern region.


    The Moon Monastery and the Eight Trigrams Sect were in the southern region.


    The Bai ns port happened to be in the southern region too, so Fang Chen decided to first make a trip to the Moon Monastery before heading to the South Heaven Sect.


    Shortly after he left the Bai ns port, a cultivator arrived on sword flight. His appearance made the hearts of Bai Qianqian and the others skip a beat.


    It was a Foundation Establishment cultivator!


    Only a Foundation Establishment cultivator would emanate such a terrifying aura.


    The person looked to be around forty years of age. His sideburns had turned white, and it was impossible to gauge the depth of his cultivation. A mere sweeping nce from him was enough to heap tremendous stress on those present.


    Youre the Bai ns cultivators? the person asked.


    Elder, I am the Bai ns Bai Qianqian, Bai Qianqian quickly led her people forward to greet the other party.


    Sea Dragon SectMaster of the Blue Mountain Ind, Xue Fenggui, Xue Fenggui replied.


    <em>He is one of the Sea Dragon Sects Foundation Establishment cultivators!</em>


    The crowd was startled. The Sea Dragon Sects territory spanned a vast sea region that epassed hundreds of inds, including a main ind.


    The Blue Mountain Ind was one of the nine strongest inds aside from the main ind. Each of these nine inds were lorded over by a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    It was said that the Sea Dragon Sect was about to develop its tenth ind, a sign that someone in their ranks was about to make a breakthrough to Foundation Establishment!


    Ill get to the point. Someone killed our young sect master and three of our sect members. His boatnded here, right? Xue Fenggui asked.


    Bai Qianqian quickly pointed in a direction and said, Elder Xue, he headed in that direction.


    No, thats wrong. One of the Bai ns cultivators suddenly shook his head and pointed in apletely different direction. That was a feint. His true destination is over there.


    Then, he looked fawningly at Xue Fenggui and said, Elder Xue, I am a gu user. I had one of my gus follow him to track his whereabouts.


    Bai Qianqians face darkened. The other Bai ns cultivators were displeased. However, none of them dared to voice their dissatisfaction aloud in front of Xue Fenggui.


    Well done. Your ability to think ahead ismendable. Whats your name? Xue Fenggui smiled.


    I am Bai Qixiang. My father is Bai Yue, Bai Qixiang quickly replied.


    Bai Yue? I remember him. He once visited Blue Mountain Ind in hopes of forging a partnership with our Sea Dragon Sect. I rejected him then. Have him make another trip to Blue Mountain Ind after this matter is settled. Xue Fenggui nodded before heading in the direction Bai Qixiang pointed.


    The atmosphere fell silent.


    Bai Qianqian didnt say a word. The other Bai ns cultivators fell silent too.


    Sensing the bizarre atmosphere, Bai Qixiang exined with a strained smile, We cant possibly offend the Sea Dragon Sect over an unknown cultivator, right? That cultivator can leave, but our roots are here.


    Bai Qixiang, it was on your fathers ount that I allowed you to stay by my side, else your past deeds should have long gotten you emunicated from our Bai n! Did you know that your wilful actions today could potentially bring a cmity upon our Bai n in the future? Can you be certain that that cultivator wouldnt notice your gu? Bai Qianqian tried her best to curb her rage as she questioned.


    Bai Qixiang, you have overstepped your boundaries! the old man roared. Take him down for questioning!


    Bai Qixiang was infuriated. You dare! You also heard the Blue Mountain Ind Master inviting my father to Blue Ind Mountain to talk business. This could be a huge deal for our Bai n, and it might help us forge close connections with the Sea Dragon Sect too. You shouldnt forget that there are other ports in the region too!


    The Huang n and the Liu n have been cornering us in recent years, causing our business to plummet. Even the merchants who have worked with us for many years stopped visiting our ports. Are you going to sit still and watch as the Bai n declines?!


    The Bai ns cultivators exchanged hesitant looks.


    Bai Qianqian narrowed his eyes. Bai Qixiang, those are two separate matters. Ill have the old ancestor judge your actions. Ill have nothing to say if he thinks you havent done wrong.


    Fine, lets have the old ancestor judge this then! Bai Qixiang sneered.


    Hm? Theres something amiss about little sword. Fang Chens eyebrows shot up.


    Around 25 kilometers away from the Bai ns port was a remote mountainous area.


    Liu Mu, lets rest here for a bit, Fang Chen said before sitting down to examine his condition.


    Liu Mu tactfully took over the role of the sentry and vigntly scanned the surroundings.


    Little swords aura was fluctuating severely, but Fang Chen was at a loss as to what to do. He could only quietly watch the situation. Every now and then, he would try to talk to it, but it didnt respond at all.


    That ck boat was of a much higher grade, and it was muchrger than other artifacts too. Perhaps little sword might undergo a metamorphosis after devouring it, Fang Chen murmured.


    Around fifteen minutester, little swords aura finally calmed down. Its length grew to over 60 centimeters, and countless daosoul imprints could be momentarily flickered on its body.


    It was just an instant, but Fang Chen saw at least hundred of daosoul imprints on little swords body, perhaps even more.


    Before he could think deeper into it, little sword appeared to have broken some kind of seal, and a peculiar sutra flowed into Fang Chens mind.


    Fang Chen felt as if his head was going to explode. The sudden influx of information squeezed his original memories to the corner of his head. His consciousness waspletely immersed in the Eight Barrens Immortal Subjugation Peerless Swordsmanship.


    A lone individual stood at the center of a dim, grayish space.


    In the surrounding billowing clouds stood countless immortals. These immortals emanated domineering auras that were unimaginably greater than what Fang Chen could envision.


    The lone individual finally moved.


    He swung his sword, and his sword intent spilled into the surroundings and swept everything in its path.


    Howls of agony ensued. These immortals were reduced to dust by that single sh. With the world as the canvas and their blood as ink, a portrait of the deepest hell was presented.


    The lone individual turned to look at Fang Chen before everything went dark.


    Fang Chen jolted awake. His body was drenched in sweat.


    Liu Mu looked at him with worried eyes. It was his first time seeing Fang Chen in such a state, as if thetter had a nightmare.


    Im fine, Fang Chen reassured Liu Mu before closing his eyes to reminisce about what he had seen.


    As if the world had slowed down, he could clearly see the looks of utmost terror on those immortals faces before they were reduced to dust.


    I never thought little sword would have such a terrifying legacy, and it has now fallen into my hands


    With a thought, little sword emerged from his body and circled around Fang Chens fingers.


    Little sword had not only grown much longer, but its connection with Fang Chen had also deepened. This was a connection that every sword cultivator was familiar with.


    Sword cultivatorthe sword came before the cultivation. Upon attaining the Eight Barrens Immortal Subjugation Peerless Swordsmanship, he gradually came to understand what a sword cultivators legacy entailed.


    If a cultivator chose to walk the path of a sword cultivator, his life would be one with the sword in his hand.


    If the human died, the sword would unravel. If the sword was destroyed, the human would breathe hisst. Their lives were connected as one from that point onward.


    From that point onward, his swordsmanship would be able to sever all forces in the world, thus the saying A Sword to Unravel All Means.


    I didnt even get the chance to choose Haa! At least the world is fair. While the world has given sword cultivators a fatal weakness, they arepensated with unparalleled offensive prowess Fang Chen said bitterly.


    Through the Eight Barrens Immortal Subjugation Peerless Swordsmanship, he forged a connection with little sword that became his foundation as a sword cultivatorlife sharing.

 Chapter 242: The Might of a Single Sword

    Chapter 242: The Might of a Single Sword


    The Eight Barrens Immortal Subjugation Peerless Swordsmanship was a swordsmanship manual, but it had nothing to do with ones cultivation. All it taught was the art of killing.


    All in all, there were seven sword arts, each one stronger and more vicious than the previous. These seven sword arts could bebined into a single move called Immortal Subjugation.


    Im unable to execute Immortal Subjugation. In fact, I am only able to use the first sword art because my cultivation is too low but now that I have this swordsmanship manual, I can at least pit my life against others now.


    Little sword, if the Empyrean Immortal Sword Sect learns that youre with me, wont I have an army of sword cultivators on my back? Fang Chen looked at little sword as he muttered.


    He had no idea how Enlightenment Heaven Supreme managed to steal little sword from the Empyrean Immortal Sword Sect, but thetter had to be searching for it. If they ever get their hands on Enlightenment Heaven Supreme, they would learn the whereabouts of the sword embryo


    You are a sword cultivator. That exins why you dared to kill our sect members. A chuckle pulled Fang Chen out of his thoughts.


    Liu Mu nervously looked at the sky. A person was riding on a flying sword, gazing down on them from above.


    Foundation Establishment? Fang Chen looked at Xue Fenggui, and his face turned grim.


    There was a huge gap between tenth stage Ki Refinement and Foundation Establishment.


    May I know your background? Xue Fenggui asked with a smile.


    Why bother asking about that when you know that Im a sword cultivator? Fang Chen replied with a smile. You arrived faster than I thought. How did you know Im here?


    Our Sea Dragon Sect is not closed off from the rest of the world. We have connections all over the world. Naturally, someone told me your whereabouts, Xue Fenggui calmly replied.


    I intentionally took another path in front of them, Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    Xue Fenggui casually waved his hand, and a chubby little worm appeared between his fingers. This worm had a pair of thin wings reminiscent of a cicadas fluttering nonstop.


    One of the Bai ns cultivators practices gu art. He nted it on you, Xue Fenggui replied.


    Fang Chen nodded in realization before asking, So, what do you n to do? Exact vengeance for your young sect master?


    I would have to exact vengeance Xue Fenggui agreed.


    Why arent you making a move? Are you worried that my backing might go after your Sea Dragon Sect if they learn about this? Fang Chen smiled.


    Xue Fenggui assessed Fang Chen before suddenly bursting intoughter. You wouldnt have said that if you had someone to back you. Now I can put my heart at ease. Ordinary cultivators believe that sword cultivators are untouchable, but in truth, most sword cultivators dont have any backing.


    Fang Chen could see that Xue Fengguis hesitation had faded due to the gap in his words.


    Those who survive to Foundation Establishment are all wily foxes, Fang Chen remarked.


    Youre ttering me. Xue Fengguiughed.


    What are you waiting for? Are you worried I might have an ace up my sleeves? Fang Chen chuckled.


    Xue Fenggui nodded. Even though he was a Foundation Establishment cultivator, it was still best to tread carefully since he was up against a sword cultivator.


    He circled Fang Chen while assessing thetters expression.


    All of a sudden, Fang Chen sensed something grabbing his feet. It was two arms conjured out of the ground.


    Before he could break free, the surrounding earth swiftly morphed into shackles that trapped him in ce.


    But this much still wasnt enough to put Xue Fengguis worries to rest. He waved his sleeves, and a fiery inferno rushed at Fang Chen. Should this attacknd, both Fang Chen and Liu Mu would surely die.


    Boom!


    The fiery inferno engulfed Fang Chen and Liu Mu.


    Xue Fenggui smiled, but secondster, he sensed that something was amiss. He quickly dissipated the mes, only to realize that the area was empty. Fang Chen and Liu Mu were nowhere to be seen.


    Five Elements Art? His grasp of it is even deeper than mine? Xue Fenggui frowned.


    He could tell that Fang Chen had used the Five Elements Art to escape underground. To easily break free from his earth shackles and escape showed that his mastery of the Five Elements Art was above his.


    Do you think you can really escape? Xue Fenggui smirked as he eyed the ground.


    Fang Chen had already escaped 300 meters away underground with Liu Mu when he suddenly sensed some kind of energy rushing at him. He hurriedly rushed out of the ground with Liu Mu.


    The area where he previously was had been turned into a pit of over 30 meters deep!


    Xue Fenggui had used his Five Elements Art topress the soil. If Fang Chen didnt escape in time, the two of them would have been reduced to meat paste.


    Youre a sword cultivator, but you tried to escape from me instead of brandishing your sword Ill have to overthrow my previous conjecture. You arent a sword cultivator at all, Xue Fenggui sneered.


    Are you sure you want mutual destruction? Fang Chen earnestly asked.


    Mutual destruction? Xue Fenggui stared at Fang Chen in ridicule. I wouldnt have crossed blows with you if you were at Foundation Establishment, but youre only at Ki Refinement. The gap between us cannot be bridged with just the sword in your hands.


    He paused before adding, You should use whatever aces you have while you have the chance.


    Ill satisfy your wish. Fang Chen nodded.


    The Eight Barrens Immortal Subjugation Peerless Swordsmanships first form!


    All of Fang Chens spirit ki was depleted in the blink of an eye. In fact, he couldnt replenish his spirit ki in time, such that it was beginning to consume his blood essence instead.


    His face began to cave in as his blood level plummeted. Fortunately, his spirit ki began recovering in time, so his condition didnt continue to deteriorate. That being said, his recovered spirit ki was immediately sapped away, so it remained in a dry state.


    Emanating a brilliant light reminiscent of aet, little sword charged at Xue Fenggui.


    This is impossible! Xue Fenggui was horrified.


    <em>How could a Ki Refinement sword cultivators attack wield such destructive prowess?!</em>


    He quickly put up his spirit ki barrier while channeling the flying sword under his feet to attack little sword in hopes of surviving this attack.


    Bam!


    Xue Fengguis flying sword shattered, and his spirit ki barrier was swiftly punctured too.


    Little sword easily pierced through Xue Fengguis chest.


    Xue Fenggui red at Fang Chen, unable to utter a word at all. His body began scattering into the surroundings at specks of light before vanishing altogether.


    The fragments of his flying sword and the storage ring he wore on his finger dissipated as well.


    Fang Chen had exhausted himself so much in that attack that he had to immediately sit down and condition himself. Two hourster, he finally recovered his spirit ki, and his spirit ki capacity even grew by a fair bit.


    However, his depleted blood essence would take more time to recover.


    That was only the first form. If I tried to execute the second form in my current state, not only will I deplete all my spirit ki, but my blood essence will dry up too, reducing me into a skeleton. Executing the second form before I be strong enough is as good asmitting suicide.


    Fang Chen was fearful. Until he advanced to Foundation Establishment and gained sufficient spirit ki, he decided to avoid using even the first form unless he truly needed to.


    He got up and double confirmed that Xue Fenggui had indeed been erased from the face of the world. It was a pity that Xue Fengguis flying sword and storage ring were destroyed in his attack too

 Chapter 243: Is This the Bai Clan?

    Chapter 243: Is This the Bai n?


    The Eight Barrens Immortal Subjugation Peerless Swordsmanship is indeed formidable but its a bit too much if it destroys even the storage ring. What a loss! Fang Chen sighed.


    A Foundation Establishment cultivator was bound to have good stuff in their storage rings. It was a pity that his earlier attack had been too strong.


    Little sword: Hungry, hungry! I want to eat!


    Lets make a trip to the Bai n. Lets see how generous they can be. Fang Chen smiled.


    Little sword was excited. It flew into Fang Chens body, and Fang Chen suddenly had a rather peculiar feeling.


    Liu Mu, close your eyes. The wind might be a little strong, Fang Chen grabbed Liu Mu by the shoulder and instructed.


    Liu Mu quickly closed his eyes.


    A sharp glint shed across Fang Chens body, and he suddenly flew into the sky like a sword. His destination? The Bai ns port!


    This was Fang Chens first time flying. Rather than riding on a sword, it felt as if he had be a sword himself.


    This was another ability of sword cultivators.


    Now that he hadpletely fused with little sword, his bodys resilience was superior to the others. A metallic glow could vaguely be seen beneath his skin. It wouldnt be far-fetched to say that he was a human-shaped artifact!


    In terms of sheer speed, he was traveling much faster than other sword cultivators of simr cultivation. Needless to say, he was also faster than mostmon cultivator flight means, such as sword flight or riding on clouds.


    In the Bai ns conference hall, Bai Qianqians group and Bai Qixiangs group sat with a clear divide between them at the center.


    The one taking the principal seat was the Bai ns patriarch, and sitting by the sides were the ns elders, including Bai Qixiangs father, Bai Yue.


    Father, thats how the matter went. Bai Qixiang acted on his own ord, and he might have brought a cmity upon our Bai n due to his wilful actions, Bai Qianqian said.


    There were different reactions from the crowd.


    Before the Bai ns patriarch could say a word, Bai Yue let out a chuckle and said, Qianqian, arent you making a big deal out of something small? My son did that with our Bai ns interest in mind.


    He turned to the crowd and said, Think about it. Back then, the Sea Dragon Sect ignored our attempts to show goodwill. This is a rare chance to connect with them, so how can we let this opportunity slip?


    Do you know who Blue Mountain Ind Master Xue Fenggui is? Hes one of the nine great Foundation Establishment cultivators of the Sea Dragon Sect! As long as he nods his head, our Bai ns business will surely tower over the Huang n and the Liu n. I dont think Qixiang has done anything wrong. Instead, he has made a huge contribution to our n!


    Those words do make sense.


    Itd be beneficial to our n to get on good terms with the Sea Dragon Sect. To put it bluntly, even the South Heaven Sect and the Beast Spirit Valley have to lower their heads before the Sea Dragon Sect.


    But is it worth offending a sword cultivator for that? Do you think the Sea Dragon Sect will stand up for us if he knocks on our door?


    Thats assuming he''s still alive. With the Blue Mountain Ind Master personally hunting him down, I doubt that he is in any state toe after us.


    The Bai ns elders expressed their stances. Most people agreed with what Bai Qixiang did today.


    Bai Yue and Bai Qixiang revealed a gleeful smirk upon seeing that.


    The Bai ns patriarch frowned. He raised his hand and said, That might be so, but theres no denying that Qixiang threw caution to the wind and acted on his own ord.


    The crowd looked at the Bai ns patriarch.


    Patriarch, I merely got ahead of myself and forgot to report this matter to Bai Qianqian, Bai Qixiang argued.


    Regardless, Qianqian is the one managing our port right now. As a subordinate, its only right for you to seek your superiors permission before making a move, the Bai ns patriarch said.


    Bai Yue shot to his feet and roared, Second Brother, are you siding with your daughter? I dont think youre being fair to Qixiang!


    The Bai ns patriarch shook his head. It is important for rules to be enforced in a huge n like ours, so that order can be upheld. It doesnt matter whether he did it with our ns welfare in mind or not. That is what our old ancestor said. Have you forgotten?


    Then lets call the old ancestor out to judge this matter! Bai Qixiang argued.


    The old ancestor is in seclusion training, so lets not disturb him. The Bai ns patriarch let out a sigh. Lets put this matter aside for now. If theres nothing else, you may return.


    Father? Bai Qianqian was stunned.


    Bai Yue couldnt hold back hisughter. All right, lets put this matter aside for now. By the time the old ancestores out of his seclusion training, our Bai ns business might have already grown by several folds.


    Bai Qixiang smiled too.


    The father and son were gleeful at having gotten their way.


    May I ask if this is the Bai n? a voice echoed outside the conference hall.


    The crowd was stunned.


    Bai Yue frowned. Do people nowadays not know any etiquette? You should report your presence at the entrance instead of barging into our Bai n!


    It looks like I have gotten to the right ce. Fang Chen entered the conference hall together with Liu Mu.


    Its you Bai Qianqian gasped.


    The others were startled too.


    Bai Yue sensed the subtle change in the atmosphere, so he toned down his voice and asked, May I know who you are?


    Father hes that sword cultivator, Bai Qixiang informed his father telepathically.


    Bai Yues body stiffened up. He tried to maintain a gentle smile, but his heart had turned cold.


    You must be the sword cultivator Qianqian spoke about. Pardon ourck of hospitality. The Bai ns patriarch stood up and sped his fist.


    The crowd was perplexed.


    <em>The Blue Mountain Ind Master should have gone to chase after him, but the sword cultivator still appeared in the Bai n as if nothing had happened. Where did the Blue Mountain Ind Master go?</em>


    A Foundation Establishment cultivator who imed to be from the Sea Dragon Sect paid me a visit earlier. I asked him how he knew my location, and he told me that he received a tip off from one of your Bai ns offspring.


    Fang Chen tossed the dead gu on the floor before smiling at the crowd. May I know who that Bai ns offspring is? Id like to have a conversation with him.


    Bai Qixiang froze up. He instinctively nced at Bai Yue with pleading eyes.


    Bai Yue gestured for him to calm down before turning toward Fang Chen. A Foundation Establishment cultivator from the Sea Dragon Sect? May I know where that elder is currently?


    I sent him to theherworld, Fang Chen replied.


    Ah!


    The fifty Bai ns cultivators in the conference hall gasped, and their faces turned ghastly pale. <em>He killed a Foundation Establishment cultivator?</em>


    They were tempted to call the sword cultivators bluff, but again, how would the sword cultivator know about the gu if he hadnt met Xue Fenggui?


    The situation spoke of itself. The two of them had met, but Xue Fenggui was nowhere to be seen whereas the sword cultivator came to the Bai n The chances were that Xue Fenggui was really dead!


    Daoist, could there be a misunderstanding? Our Bai n dares not get involved in your business with the Sea Dragon Sect Bai Yue said with a strained smile.


    Are you insinuating that the Foundation Establishment cultivator was lying? I dont think he has a reason to lie to me. Fang Chen smiled at Bai Yue. Are you the Bai ns offspring he spoke about?


    Bai Yues face turned pale. He hurriedly shook his head. It isnt me.


    Then who is it? Fang Chen directed a sweeping gaze across the room. Are you nning on covering up for that person?


    Bai Qianqian pointed to Bai Qixiang and said, Y-young master, he was the one who acted on his own ord and sent a gu to follow you!


    Bai Qianqian, you vicious bitch! Bai Qixiang was infuriated. He quickly turned to Fang Chen with fearful eyes and said, I-I didnt mean it! I was afraid that the Sea Dragon Sect might turn its wrath toward our Bai n

 Chapter 244: Jadegreen Lotus

    Chapter 244: Jadegreen Lotus


    It is a misunderstanding. Bai Yue squeezed out a smile. Daoist, Im willing topensate for your losses, so I ask you to show mercy and spare my son.


    Indeed. Our Bai n is willing topensate for your losses.


    Daoist, could we sit down and talk this matter through? the Bai ns patriarch asked.


    Fang Chen chuckled. Youre such kind people, but the world of cultivation is a cruel ce where murder and genocide often happen


    Kill Bai Yue and his son!


    These two people arent worthy of being humans. They brought trouble to our Bai n over their own selfish motive!


    The crowd immediately changed their tune.


    With the Bai ns patriarch leading the pack, the Bai ns cultivators threw their meanssome even brought out their artifactsagainst Bai Yue and his son.


    Even to their dying breath, the father and son couldnt believe that they were abandoned just like that.


    The attacks continued for around five minutes.


    Only after confirming that the two of them were dead did the Bai ns patriarch stabilize his breathing and turned to Fang Chen, saying, Daoist, is our exnation satisfactory to you?


    We can start talking aboutpensation now.


    <em>Compensation?! Is Bai Yue and his sons lives not enough?</em>


    The crowd was unhappy, but they dared not say anything more.


    Daoist, may I know what you want forpensation? We can talk things through, the Bai ns patriarch said.


    That depends on your sincerity. I dont want ki stones; only artifacts and spirit materials. Fang Chen smiled.


    <em>He doesnt want ki stones?</em>


    The eyes of the crowd lit up. Ki stones were the purest form of treasure in this world, which was why it was used as a currency. There was still room for negotiation if he didnt want that.


    The Bai n discussed the matter among themselves, with great emphasis being ced on Fang Chens sincerity. In the end, the Bai ns patriarch offered all of Bai Yue and his sons artifacts, and he added one more artifact on top of that.


    All in all, there were three artifactsone had twelve daosoul imprints, and the other two had ten and seven daosoul imprints respectively.


    Other than that, the Bai n also took out some of the ores from their inventory that they were nning to sell.


    Daoist, this Moonsunk Ore are from the distant Moonsunk Country. We have 1500 kilograms of it in total, which can be refined into 5 kilograms of Moonsunk Gold. Each kilogram of Moonsunk Gold is worth 60 low-grade ki stones.


    The Bai ns patriarch sped his fist and asked, May I know if youre satisfied with yourpensation?


    <em>Moonsunk Ore?</em>


    The key material used to forge the Moonsunk Gold Truncheon was, of course, Moonsunk Gold. Fang Chen nodded in satisfaction. He stowed the three artifacts and the Moonsunk Ore away in his storage ring.


    Im satisfied with thepensation. Ill take my leave first.


    With that, Fang Chen began to take his leave.


    However, the Bai ns patriarch called out, Please wait a moment.


    The Bai ns cultivators looked at their patriarch and frowned. <em>This star of misfortune is finally leaving. Why are you stopping him?</em>


    Do you need me for something else? Fang Chen smiled.


    Daoist, if Im not mistaken, a malevolent cultivator once used yourpanion to nurture poison? The Bai ns patriarch looked at Liu Mu.


    Liu Mus eyes narrowed. He reflexively pulled back his neck, thinking that his stench had affected them.


    You have sharp eyes. Have you seen something like this before? Fang Chen nodded.


    Its amon means among malevolent cultivators who practice poison arts. Countless cultivators pass by our Bai ns port everyday, so its only normal for me to have seen this a couple of times before. The Bai ns patriarch nodded. Pardon my brazen guess, but are you hoping to remove the poison on his body?


    Fang Chen eyed the Bai ns patriarch before saying, Continue.


    The eyes of the Bai ns patriarch lit up. He continued with a lowered voice,, 100 kilometers away from here, theres a Liu n and a Huang n that specializes in the spirit herbs trade. Countless spirit herbs go through their ports each day.


    Their ns own herb fields, and I have heard rumors that they have nted a 100-year-old Jadegreen Lotus. Its about to bear fruit, and its said that its seed is exceptionally effective in purging poison.


    Realization dawned upon the Bai ns cultivators. They finally understood why their patriarch stopped this star of misfortune from leaving, and excitement seeped into their eyes.


    You are on bad terms with those two ns. You want to use my hand to teach them a lesson, Fang Chen bluntly pointed it out.


    The Bai ns patriarch admitted to it, I do have such an intention in mind, but its your choice whether you wish to head there or not. Im just rying the news to you in hopes that it might be of use to you.


    Fang Chen nodded. He walked out of the conference hall with Liu Mu before soaring into the air. His sword intent lingered for a few seconds before dissipating.


    Thats the sword morphing!


    He really is a sword cultivator


    The crowd was startled. They could tell the difference between sword flight and sword morphing, with thetter being the distinctive ability of a sword cultivator.


    Father what if the Liu n and Huang ne after us for this? Bai Qianqian asked with a frown.


    Those two ns are arrogant. They would have gone after our Bai n even if I didnt do that. Since thats the case, I might as well prepare a gift for them in advance. the Bai ns patriarch said with a chuckle. At least the artifacts and Moonsunk Gold we gave out wouldnt have been in vain.


    Our patriarch is wise!


    The Bai ns cultivators sped their fists and bowed.


    If not for their patriarchs decisiveness, trouble would have befallen their Bai n today.


    How should we deal with the Sea Dragon Sects cultivators if they visit us? Bai Qianqian asked with worried eyes.


    Tell them the truth. Our Bai n is also a victim here. The Bai ns patriarch patted her shoulder. That sword cultivator killed a Foundation Establishment cultivator despite his young age. The Sea Dragon Sect might choose to let this matter slip.


    But he killed the Sea Dragon Sects young master! Bai Qianqian was surprised to hear that.


    Would you have avenged me if he killed me? the Bai ns patriarch asked with a smile.


    Bai Qianqian was taken aback. She averted her gaze and bitterly replied, I dont think so.


    That does it. Cultivators always weigh the pros and cons before making a move. I believe the Sea Dragon Sect Master will make a wise decision. The Bai ns patriarch chuckled. Go and take over your Uncle Bai Yues affairs and sort out his ledgers.


    Yes, father. Bai Qianqian nodded before taking her leave.


    Thebined scale of the Liu n and the Huang ns port was several times bigger than that of the Bai n. They had countless vendors, selling sea beast inner cores, spirit materials, and all sorts of artifacts, talismans, and pills.


    There was someone leaving and entering the port at every moment.


    No wonder the Bai n wants to use my hand to suppress the Liu n and the Huang n. They are only 100 kilometers away from each other, but this port isrger and more bustling than theirs.


    Fang Chen and Liu Mu made their way through the port.


    The Huang n and the Liu n are opening their medicine field today. Many people are rushing there for the auction. Lets make haste. Who knows? We might just get a good deal.


    What good deal? Those two ns are as calctive as they can get! Dont expect to get anything for cheap.


    Lets take a look first. They have a good assortment of spirit herbs, including some which I have already been searching for years.


    Fine, Ill apany you.


    Little Liu, lets head over to take a look too. Ill get you a Jadegreen Lotus Seed to eat. Perhaps it might help purge the poison in your body, Fang Chen told Liu Mu.


    Expectation gleamed in Liu Mus eyes. Even in his dreams he wanted to be a normal person once more.

 Chapter 245; Why Don’t You Guess Whether You’ll Die Today?

    Chapter 245; Why Don¡¯t You Guess Whether You¡¯ll Die Today?


    The Huang n and the Liu ns herb fields opened once every five years, and there were at least a thousand cultivators who came for todays opening


    The nsmen of both ns were stationed along the way to maintain order. At the same time, they were also keeping a close eye on the cultivators lest someone with dirty hands stole from the herb fields.


    There are cultivators everywhere here, unlike in Great Xia, Fang Chen murmured.


    It didnt take long for them to arrive deep in the herb field.


    There wererge patches of herb fields to their left and right, and countless spirit herbs were growing in them. Their ages differed, but their fragrance and the spirit ki they emanated were intoxicating.


    Fang Chen took a look around and saw a huge green-colored lotus growing deep in the herb field. It had the most intense aura, and its fragrance and spirit ki were far more intense than the other spirit herbs.


    Everyone, we have many spirit herbs on auction today. Therell be a minimum bidding price ced on each herb, and the highest bidder will win the herb.


    Seeing that it was about time, the managers of the two ns began addressing the crowd.


    Mature spirit herbs were picked on the spot and disyed before the crowd. The minimum bidding price was announced, and the crowd beganpeting for them through their bidding.


    It didnt take long for the spirit herbs to be sold.


    Todays auction has concluded. Please return five yearster, the Huang ns manager looked at the substantial earnings of ki stone as he gleefully announced.


    I heard that your Jadegreen Lotus is about to reach maturity. May I ask if the lotus seeds are for sale? Fang Chen asked.


    The crowd looked at Fang Chen with frowns.


    The 100-year-old Jadegreen Lotus was the treasure of the two ns, and they stationed cultivators to guard it all year long lest someone steal it. The Jadegreen Lotus Seed could not only cure many poisons, but frequent consumption of it could also raise ones talent and vitality.


    Thus, it was never put on sale.


    Who are you? Dont you know that our Jadegreen Lotus is not for sale? the Huang ns manager eyed Fang Chen as he coldly said.


    I only need one seed.


    Dont even think about it. Scram! How dare you eye our Jadegreen Lotus? Who do you think you are? Even the South Heaven Sect and the Beast Spirit Valley would courteously send us a word beforehand! a young cultivator roared.


    Many youths around him voiced their agreement. There wasnt enough Jadegreen Lotus Seeds to go around them, and an outsider still wanted to buy it? Dream on!


    I am already being courteous. How does a hundred ki stones for one sound? Fang Chen politely replied.


    <em>A hundred ki stones?</em>


    The crowd was stunned. This was definitely a high price!


    Even Foundation Establishment cultivators paid only around 40 to 50 low-grade ki stones when purchasing the lotus seed from the Huang n and the Liu n.


    Audacious! Do you think that you can buy anything with your ki stones? To teach you a lesson, you shall leave your 100 ki stones here before being thrown out! the young man roared.


    The Huang ns and the Liu ns managers exchanged looks, but they chose to keep silent. They were implicitly permitting the young man to act as he pleased.


    Hes unlucky to have stumbled upon the Huang ns first young master.


    I heard the Huang ns first young master cant stand any eyesores. He doesnt hesitate to deal with anyone who pisses him off.


    That fellow must be a passer-by, but of all things, he dared to eye the Jadegreen Lotus. I doubt that hed be allowed to walk out of here until he coughs up 100 ki stones.


    Can you call the shots on behalf for the Huang n? Fang Chen asked the young cultivator.


    I am Huang Hao. You can ask around and see if I can call the shots for the Huang n! the young cultivator replied.


    He is our Huang ns first young master. His word is our Huang ns will. I advise you to fork out the ki stones and let this matter rest like that, the Huang ns manager calmly said.


    Manager Huang exerted his spirit kihe was at twelfth stage Ki Refinement!


    It was a threat. There were hardly any cultivators attending this auction who had reached twelfth stage Ki Refinement.


    Did you hear that? Hand over the ki stones. This is a lesson for your foolishness, Huang Hao sneered.


    Fang Chenughed.


    Little sword whizzed forth and pierced through Manager Huangs spirit ki, stopping right in front of his forehead. A small droplet of blood slowly seeped out.


    It took a second before Manager Huang understood what had happened, and cold sweat soaked his robes. He felt a chill rising from his feet, rushing straight into his head.


    The crowd was stunned.


    They didnt even see Fang Chen making a move, but a twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator had already been subdued. Should the sword advance any further, Manager Huang would lose his life!


    How dare you?! Huang Hao roared. Take him down! Take him down!


    The Huang n and the Liu ns cultivators dared not to make a move, so they turned a deaf ear to Huang Haos screeches. They wouldnt dare to gamble with Manager Huangs life.


    I was being polite with my words, but you insisted on taking advantage of me. Fang Chen shook his head. He walked up to Manager Huang and shook his head. Did you think that youre unmatched in this world just because youre at twelfth stage Ki Refinement?


    Are you a sword cultivator? Manager Huangs face turned pale.


    With little sword pressing against his forehead, he could clearly sense the tremendous sword intent harnessed within it. His spirit ki barrier didnt evenst a split second against Fang Chen!


    He knew that Fang Chen could easily take his life if he wanted to.


    Why dont you guess whether youll die today? Fang Chen replied.


    Manager Huangs sweat flowed profusely. Terrified to make a move, he looked at Fang Chen with a pale face and nervously said, Esteemed daoist, lets talk things out. There are a few more days before the Jadegreen Lotus ripens. I cant give you a seed now even if I wanted to.


    Lets wait a few more days then. Fang Chen smiled. He pointed at Huang Hao and asked, Is he really your Huang ns first young master?


    Thats right! Manager Huang anxiously replied.


    You look tired. You should take a rest. Fang Chen nodded.


    Then, little sword whizzed up to Huang Hao.


    What are you doing?! It was Huang Haos turn to sweat profusely.


    Manager Huang heaved a sigh of relief and wiped off his sweat, but Huang Haos plight made his heart beat nervously too. He tried to mediate in the situation, saying, Esteemed daoist, we have started off on the wrong foot, but theres no grudge between us. Why dont we take a step back and reconcile? Our Huang n will sell a seed to you once the Jadegreen Lotus ripens.


    You wish to take his ce? Fang Chen asked Manager Huang.


    Goosebumps rose all over Manager Huangs body. He dared not say anything more. The feeling of imminent death was not something he would like to experience a second time.


    You, dont mess around! You wont walk out of here alive if something happens to me! Huang Hao stuttered.


    Try threatening me once more, Fang Chen said with an unreadable smile.


    Huang Hao shut his mouth and dared not to let out even a fart. His instincts told him that he would really die if he dared speak another word.


    All sorts of emotions were reflected on the faces of the surrounding cultivators. Some were shocked. Some looked contemtive. Some gloated. Some were curious about Fang Chens background.

 Chapter 246: Treatment

    Chapter 246: Treatment


    The Huang n and the Liu ns cultivators kept rushing in, and they were startled to see that Huang Hao had been held hostage.


    Five minutester, a middle-aged man dressed in a fluttering ck robe walked with a huge entourage. He sped his fist and greeted Fang Chen with a warm smile, Daoist, I am the Huang ns patriarch, Huang Lingyue. Im not sure how my unworthy son has offended you, but could we sit down and talk things over?


    Theres no need for that. Ill spare him once I receive my lotus seed, Fang Chen replied.


    Huang Lingyues face twitched. He coldly eyed Manager Huang, and his sharp eyes made Manager Huangs heart turn cold.


    All the Huang nsmen knew that Huang Lingyues gentle exterior was a facade; he was an extremely violent man. On top of that, he was half a foot into Foundation Establishment.


    Father, save me! Huang Hao shouted.


    Huang Lingyue looked at his son before he turned back to Fang Chen and smiled. Daoist, if what you seek is the Jadegreen Lotus Seed, Ill give one to you. Please dont harm my son. He is the only son I have.


    Thats good. You dont have to do anything. Once the Jadegreen Lotus ripens, Ill take a lotus seed and leave. Your son will be fine.


    All right. The Jadegreen Lotus will be ripening in a few days time. Ill wait here with you.


    Patriarch, he seems to be a sword cultivator, Manager Huang warned Huang Lingyue through telepathy.


    Investigate his whereabouts now! I want to know who sent him here to cause a ruckus in our Huang n! Huang Lingyue replied telepathically with a cold face.


    Manager Huang nodded before discreetly backing off.


    Two hourster, the Liu ns patriarch arrived too. He exchanged words with Huang Lingyue before taking a deep look at Fang Chen, but he didnt bother greeting him.


    Days passed in a sh.


    Amidst a tense atmosphere, when the morning rays emerged from the horizon, the Jadegreen Lotus suddenly began to move. A huge stream of spirit ki gushed in from the surroundings, and the Jadegreen Lotus began emanating a faint green glow. It had ripened!


    A total of four seeds shot out and rotated above the Jadegreen Lotus.


    Huang Lingyue stood up and looked at Fang Chen. Daoist, the Jadegreen Lotus has bear fruit. Ill give one to you right now.


    WIth a wave of his sleeves, he drew a lotus seed over to Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen handed the lotus seed to Liu Mu and said, Eat it. Lets see if it works.


    The crowd was astounded. They had thought that Fang Chen wanted the lotus seed for himself, but he gave it to the fellow cloaked in ck beside him instead.


    That persons stench reminds me of medicine boys. A malevolent cultivator must have used him to nurture poison. The Jadegreen Lotus is known for its ability to purge many poisons. That must have been the reason he sought the Jadegreen Lotus Seed!


    The crowd muttered among themselves.


    Huang Lingyue and the Liu ns patriarch looked at Liu Mu,


    Liu Mu didnt hesitate to swallow the lotus seed upon receiving it.


    The lotus seed released a surge of pure spirit ki that circted within Liu Mus body. This surge of spirit ki had the effect of purging poison, such that Liu Mus tumors began disappearing at a visible pace.


    The biggest tumor on his back started to contract, squirting bits of green juices in the meantime. Not even the herbal fragrance of the herb fields could conceal the stench,


    Some of the cultivators sped their noses and mouths, feeling disgusted by the sight.


    It does work. Fang Chen breathed a sigh of relief.


    Two hourster, Liu Mus condition stabilized. The effects of the lotus seed had worn off, but there were still some tumors on him. Thergest tumor on his back had only contracted by half, which showed how potent the poison he was nurturing.


    One isnt enough. Give me another one, Fang Chen told Huang Lingyue.


    You arent holding your promise! Huang Hao red at Fang Chen.


    Huang Lingyues face darkened, and his smile turned cold. Daoist, you shouldnt push your luck. I have fulfilled my end of my promise by giving you a lotus seed. Its time for you to fulfill your promise.


    When did I say Id only take one? Fang Chen smiled. Give me the remaining three lotus seeds too, and Ill free your son.


    What nonsense are you spouting?! Two of the lotus seeds belong to our Liu n! the younger Liu ns cultivators roared.


    One of their faces looked particrly dark. He was likely the one bestowed with those two seeds. If Fang Chen were to take those seeds, he would have to wait another five years before getting them!


    Arent you going too far? You came to our Liu n and Huang ns turf and kidnapped Huang Hao, and now you want to take all four lotus seeds too? Brother Huang is already being magnanimous by giving one to you. You shouldnt get too greedy, the Liu ns patriarch said.


    Shall we take a guess? Do you think my sword is faster, or your barrier is thicker? Fang Chen smiled.


    The Liu ns patriarch was so infuriated that he burst intoughter. Hahaha! Give it a try then. Ill be standing right here!


    Pu!


    Little sword pierced through the chest of the Liu ns patriarch before instantaneously returning to Huang Haos side. Huang Hao had only felt a breeze before the Liu ns patriarch crumbled to the floor.


    What?!


    The crowd gasped in shock. They looked at Fang Chen with fearful eyes.


    Arent sword cultivators too terrifying? With his offensive prowess, no Ki Refinement cultivator could possibly be a match for him!


    Unless the Foundation Establishment old ancestors make a move


    Brother Liu?! Huang Lingyue stared at the Liu ns patriarch in shock.


    I-Ill survive Give the lotus seeds to him The Liu ns patriarch clutched his chest as someone supported him upward.


    Fear could be seen reflected in his eyes. <em>Sword cultivators are as terrifying as their reputation puts them out to be. Even a twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator like me was helpless.</em>


    Huang Lingyue hesitated, but soon, he waved his sleeves and passed the remaining three lotus seeds to Fang Chen.


    Have another one. Fang Chen tossed one to Liu Mu.


    This lotus seed purged all of Liu Mus poison. The tumors covering his body had finally vanished. He pulled off his ck cloak and looked at Fang Chen in agitation. Tears wouldnt stop streaming from his eyes.


    All right, stop crying. Fang Chen smiled. Lets go.


    Little sword fused into his body. Fang Chen grabbed Liu Mu and soared into the sky, vanishing in an instant.


    Huang Hao copsed to the ground and gasped for air. He was no longer at deaths door.


    Patriarch, should we give chase? a Huang ns cultivator asked.


    Dont bother. Well deal with this after our old ancestores out of his seclusion training. Huang Lingyue looked at the sky with an awfulplexion before addressing the surrounding cultivators, I dont wish to hear any rumors about this matter.


    Rest assured, Patriarch Huang. Our lips are sealed, the crowd quickly replied.


    Huang Lingyue nodded. He turned to the Liu ns patriarch and asked, Brother Liu, how are your injuries?


    Im fine. It wasnt a fatal attack, the Liu ns patriarch replied bitterly.


    Patriarch, I have found his background! Manager Huang rushed over with a few fearful cultivators following him.


    He was stunned when he saw that Fang Chen was nowhere to be seen.

 Chapter 247: Visiting the Moon Monastery

    Chapter 247: Visiting the Moon Monastery


    You have found his background? Speak! Huang Lingyue coldly ordered.


    Hurry up, Manager Huang. Our Huang n wont let this matter slide! Huang Hao rubbed his forehead while bellowing.


    The cultivators who were nning to leave halted their footsteps. They looked at Manager Huang with curious eyes, wanting to know Fang Chens background too.


    Manager Huang revealed a bitter smile. Patriarch, that sword cultivator is in deep trouble.


    What are you saying? Huang Lingyue frowned.


    The crowd was baffled. <em>Deep trouble? Is he talking about what happened here?</em>


    I heard that hended on the Bai ns port Manager Huang said.


    Before Manager Huang could finish his story, Huang Hao furiously interjected, Did the Bai n send him here?! They must be tired of living!


    Huang Lingyues face further darkened. The Liu ns patriarch narrowed his eyes.


    That exined why the sword cultivator suddenly knocked on their doors. The Bai n must have told him about the Jadegreen Lotus or was that just an excuse to humiliate their ns?


    Hmph! The Bai n cant wait anymore, huh? Huang Lingyue sneered.


    Manager Huang stuttered, N-no, it isnt the Bai n. The Bai n has no right to order him around


    <em>Not the Bai n? </em>Huang Lingyue spoke with a tinge of rage in his voice, Stop beating around the bush and get to the point.


    <em>I would have finished the story if Huang Hao hadnt disrupted me! </em>Manager Huang was irked, though he dared not let it show. He cleared his throat before continuing, That sword cultivator killed the Sea Dragon Sects young sect master and several of their twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivators beforending on shore.


    The Sea Dragon Sects Blue Mountain Ind Master rushed to the Bai ns port to hunt that sword cultivator down, but shortly after, the sword cultivator appeared in the Bai n. This hints that the sword cultivator might have killed the Blue Mountain Ind Master


    The crowd fell silent.


    Huang Lingyues face warped in shock.


    <em>The Sea Dragon Sects young sect master was killed? The Blue Mountain Ind Master, Xue Fenggui, was killed too? </em>


    Heavens! That sword cultivator has the means to kill a Foundation Establishment cultivator?


    No wonder No wonder he was soposed! He doesnt fear the Huang ns and the Liu ns Foundation Establishment old ancestors at all!


    The crowd gasped.


    Is your news reliable? Huang Lingyue asked.


    It came from the eyes we nted in the Bai n. It is reliable, Manager Huang replied.


    Huang Lingyue fell silent.


    Huang Hao hung his head, not daring to face his father. His recklessness nearly brought a cmity upon the Huang n.


    A sword cultivator who doesnt fear the Sea Dragon Sect The Liu ns patriarch turned to Huang Lingyue. Brother Huang, I fear that he has a strong background. We shouldnt provoke him any further.


    Huang Lingyue nodded in agreement.


    He turned to Huang Hao and said, Youre still too young and hot-blooded. You shouldnt go out anymore. Spend your next ten years cultivating in the n.


    <em>Ten years</em> Huang Haos face looked bitter. Understood, father.


    As for the sword cultivator Huang Lingyue said. We have business ties with the Sea Dragon Sect. Theres no way to conceal this matter, so send someone to inform them.


    Lets go with that for now. The Liu ns patriarch nodded.


    Infernoze is indeed vast. The climate here isnt as extreme as Great Xia too; it feels like spring all year long. Liu Mu, look at their people. Their physiques are taller and bigger than our Great Xias civilians. They seem to be overflowing with vitality.


    Thats the difference between our Great Xia and a grade-6 state. The food they eat and the water they drink carry a tinge of spirit ki. Our Great Xia cant match that, Fang Chen remarked.


    Great Xia was slowly bing stronger, but it would take more than one persons effort and a great deal of time to develop it to Infernozes level.


    He had sown the seeds. Perhaps, many years from now, Great Xia might be as strong as Infernoze.


    However, the wind was so furious that Liu Mu couldnt even open his eyes, let alone hear any of Fang Chens words.


    Dont worry, were reaching. Fang Chen chuckled upon seeing his state.


    Five minutester, the two of themnded on a mountain.


    Fang Chen dissipated his sword intent before looking at the que in front of himMoon Monastery.


    The Qing Province Sword Sect has sent someone here!


    Ten nuns suddenly rushed out and surrounded the two of them. The leading nun assessed Fang Chen with a grim frown.


    Liu Mu was taken aback. <em>Isnt the Moon Monastery a friend of young master Fang? Why are they treating their guests like that?</em>


    Is this the Moon Monastery? Fang Chen asked with a polite smile.


    Cut your act! We dont wee cultivators from the Qing Province Sword Sect here. Please leave right away! the leading nun bellowed.


    Her aura was around the level of a sixth stage Ki Refinement cultivator.


    Someone of her strength, in a sect where the strongest cultivator was at early Foundation Establishment, should be the big senior. Beyond that would be the managers and the elders.


    We arent from the Qing Province Sword Sect, Fang Chen said.


    Youre lying! I sensed your sword intent! a little nun roared.


    Is Abbess Clearlotus or Abbess Moonchaser here? They know who I am, Fang Chen said.


    The leading nun frowned. She eyed Fang Chen in skepticism as she asked, Are you really not from the Qing Province Sword Sect?


    Do I look like Im from there? Fang Chen chuckled.


    The leading nun nced at Liu Mu and thought that the cultivators of the Qing Province Sword Sect wouldnt have brought such a young boy with them. Thus, herplexion improved a little.


    Are you acquainted with Junior Clearlotus and our head abbess? the leading nun asked.


    Fang Chen nodded. Please announce my arrival. Tell them an old friend from Great Xia is here.


    Great Xia? Ah! You must be Great Xias young master Fang! Junior Clearlotus often mentions you. The eyes of the leading nun lit up.


    The other nuns already breathed a sigh of relief before curiously assessing Fang Chen. Knowing that Great Xia was a remote grade-9 state, they understood that Fang Chen must possess exceptional means to be able to travel all the way here.


    Some timeter, Abbess Clearlotus walked out. Her eyes lit up in joy when she saw Fang Chen. Young master Fang, what brings you here?


    Now that Fang Chens identity had been verified, the other nuns finally put down their guard.


    I happened to be passing by the area, so I dropped by to pay a visit. I hope I am not disturbing you, Fang Chen said.


    Abbess Clearlotus quickly waved her hands. Not at all, but


    Hesitation flickered across her eyes. I fear that our Moon Monastery isnt in a good position to be receiving guests.


    What happened? Is it rted to the Qing Province Sword Sect? Fang Chen casually asked.


    It is my fault, Abbess Clearlotus said in self-reproach.


    Before she could finish her sentence, Abbess Moonchaser suddenly arrived at the scene too. The crowd quickly bowed to her.


    Abbess Moonchaser. Fang Chen sped his fist.


    Abbess Moonchaser looked at Fang Chen and nodded. Young master Fang, this way please.

 Chapter 248: Benevolent Heart

    Chapter 248: Benevolent Heart


    The Moon Monasterys guest room was located in a bamboo forest. It was quiet and elegant.


    Abbess Moonchaser, is your Moon Monastery facing problems? Fang Chen asked with a smile after settling down on a seat.


    Its not a big issue. A while ago, Clearlotus went down the mountain to train. While passing by the Qing Province, she stumbled upon a fae cultivator. Most fae cultivators, like the Blood Spirit Cultists, feed on the blood essence of mortals to advance their cultivation. Thus, Clearlotus used a Purple Lightning Talisman to clear the fae cultivator.


    Abbess Clearlotus pursed her lips in self-reproach.


    That Purple Lightning Talisman brought you trouble? Fang Chen asked.


    Abbess Moonchaser nodded. This child is too innocent. A few disciples from the Qing Province Sword Sect were present and asked about the Purple Lightning Talismans origin. She honestly answered their question.


    She heaved a sigh before adding, Its not her fault. She has a pure heart.


    Fang Chen nced at Abbess Clearlotus and saw that her cultivation had advanced to sixth stage Ki Refinement. She was only at second stage Ki Refinement when theyst met.


    She was growing much faster than normal cultivators even though she was nowhere as fast as Fang Chen.


    Noticing Fang Chens astonishment, Abbess Moonchaser exined with a smile, Our Moon Monasterys cultivation method focuses on developing the heart. The more wless ones state of mind is, the faster the advancement in ones cultivation. Thats why we pick disciples based on their character.


    Clearlotus has a pure heart, which makes her a good fit for our cultivation method. Thats why her cultivation grows many times faster than ordinary cultivators.


    There was a slight pause before she added, Its not just Clearlotus; its the same for our disciples too. Unfortunately, its inevitable for ones state of mind to change when walking on the path of cultivation. Once that happens, the advancement in their cultivation would greatly slow.


    Abbess Moonchaser then turned to Abbess Clearlotus and said, You have been wallowing in self-reproach over this matter, such that you couldnt even focus on your cultivation But I have made even more mistakes than you when I first joined the Moon Monastery.


    Master, were you also as dumb as me back then? Abbess Clearlotus instinctively blurted out, only to realize that she had misspoken. She nervously lowered her head.


    Abbess Moonchaser stared at her with an impassive face before cidly replying, You can say so. I was a little dumber than you.


    Abbess Clearlotus was both surprised and overjoyed. She looked at Abbess Moonchaser expectantly and said, If I could be as smart as master in the future


    If possible, Id rather you remain dumb. Abbess Moonchaser shook her head. She turned to Fang Chen and asked, Young master Fang, are you just passing by this area, or are you here to visit Clearlotus and Qingyao?


    Both. Fang Chen smiled. Im nning on heading to the South Heaven Sect. I happened to pass by the area, so I thought I should drop by and visit some old friends. How is Miss Qingyao doing? Has she adapted well to life here?


    Our little junior is formidable! Master has already chosen her to be the next head abbess! Abbess Clearlotus eximed in admiration.


    Fang Chen was surprised.


    Fang Qingyao did have a cultivation talent of seven tolls, but as the female sword cultivator who took Jade Fairy away said, Spirit Gauging Bells of their quality wasnt indicative of a cultivators talent.


    If Clearlotus has a pure heart, Qingyao has a benevolent heart. She doesnt likepeting with others, but she seeks to bring salvation to the masses. Abbess Moonchaser smiled. It took her a month to forge her first immortal vein after arriving at the Moon Monastery, and she is now at third stage Ki Refinement.


    Young master Fang, my master often says that its thanks to you that our Moon Monastery found our next head abbess. Abbess Clearlotus chuckled.


    Abbess Moonchaser shook her head before saying, Qingyao is cultivating in our sects forbiddennd. Our elders are guarding her. Im afraid she wont being out of seclusion any time soon, and it wouldnt be good to disturb her either.


    I see. Ill meet her next time then. Fang Chen nodded. Abbess Moonchaser, have you found a way to deal with the Qing Province Sword Sect yet?


    I have invited a few sect masters whom Im close with for a negotiation with the Qing Province Sword Sect. Abbess Moonchaser nodded.


    At this point, she suddenly nced at Liu Mu and asked, I remember him. Didnt he leave with Jinnan?


    Fang Chen nodded. Im here for that. Liu Mu should have been cultivating in the South Heaven Sect, but for some reason, I found him being used by a malevolent cultivator to nurture poison.


    Abbess Moonchaser was stunned. She closely examined Liu Mu and pondered about the matter before remarking, I dont see any traces of him nurturing poison.


    He had to consume two 100-year-old Jadegreen Lotus Seeds to fully purge the poison in him, Fang Chen replied.


    I see. Thats a good medicine for purging poison. Abbess Moonchaser nodded. I dont think Elder Jinnan would stoop to that. There might be more to this matter.


    Fang Chen nodded. Thats why I intend to seek an exnation from the South Heaven Sect.


    Suddenly, there was a loud explosion. The ground shook, and exmations echoed outside.


    Abbess Moonchasers face darkened. She immediately morphed into a sh of light and rushed outside.


    Fang Chen grabbed Liu Mu and Abbess Clearlotus and rushed out as well. He arrived at the entrance almost at the same time as Abbess Moonchaser.


    Shock flickered across Abbess Moonchasers eyes when she noticed Fang Chens speed, but the current situation was too severe for her to think deeper into it.


    <em>Young master Fang was really fast just now! Did he grow even stronger?!</em> Abbess Clearlotus was astonished.


    At the mountains entrance, a group of nuns stood in a face off against fifty cultivators dressed in different clothes. Their majestic entrance had been reduced to rubble. That must have been the cause of the earlier explosion.


    Thunderwind Sword Yao Dan, does your Qing Province Sword Sect intend on going to war with our Moon Monastery? Abbess Moonchaser questioned a green-robed cultivator with a livid face.


    That cultivator looked to be around forty years old, and he stood with his hands behind his back. The aura he emanated was no weaker than Abbess Moonchaserhe was a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    The cultivators he had brought here were at least at sixth stage Ki Refinement, and they red menacingly as the nuns.


    Our Qing Province Sword Sect doesnt want to start a war with you, but your Moon Monastery is being too greedy. You found the Purple Lightning Talismans legacy inside that fae cultivators stomach, yet you wish to monopolize it. No matter how I look at it, it simply doesnt make any sense, Yao Dan sneered.


    He nced at Fang Chen and remarked, How rare it is to see a man in the Moon Monastery. Did you invite him here as a helper?


    Then, he smiled at Fang Chen and said, How should I address you? This is a matter between the Moon Monastery and our Qing Province Sword Sect. I advise you not to get involved.

 Chapter 249: Just Toss It At Them

    Chapter 249: Just Toss It At Them


    Ignoring Yao Dan, Fang Chen turned to Abbess Moonchaser and asked, Abbess, who is he?


    Yao Dans cheeks twitched. He nced at Fang Chen with a hint of killing intent in his eyes.


    Hes the first elder of the Qing Province Sword Sect, an early Foundation Establishment cultivator, Abbess Moonchaser replied.


    <em>Early Foundation Establishment? </em>Fang Chen was surprised. A Foundation Establish cultivator utters such nonsense?


    Hah! Abbess Moonchaserughed. Hes just shameless.


    Their exchange fanned the hostility of the Qing Province Sword Sects cultivators. Yao Dan red at Fang Chen and asked, Daoist, whats your background? Dont you know you have to be prudent with your words? Otherwise, you might bring trouble not just upon yourself but the sect behind you too.


    Are there no creative threats? All you people utter about is either murder or massacring my sect. You dont even know what my sect is, Fang Chen scoffed.


    Abbess Moonchaser smirked too. <em>The Qing Province Sword Sect wants to massacre Fang Chens sect? Thats like an earthworm trying to shake a tree. </em>


    Yao Dan harrumphed. He turned to Abbess Moonchaser and said, Cut the crap. Are you handing over the Purple Lightning Talismans legacy or not? If you insist on monopolizing it, Ill make sure to cause a huge fuss in your Moon Monastery today!


    How can you be so shameless! That Purple Lightning Talismans legacy wasnt from that fae cultivator at all! Abbess Clearlotus face puffed red.


    Are you insinuating that our disciples lied? When ites to shamelessness, theres no one who surpasses your Moon Monastery. Youre a bunch of whores who im to be virtuous and chaste! Yao Dan sneered.


    Yao Dan, your Qing Province Sword Sect is not strong enough to call the shots in Infernoze, Abbess Moonchaser said. Ill give you a chance. Leave with your people and drop this unrealistic pursuit.


    What if I refuse? Yao Danughed. Ah, I heard you reached out to the Spirit Heaven Sect Master and the Flying Eagle Sect Master for help. The three of you used to travel the world together. You must have been close.


    Abbess Moonchaser looked impassively at Yao Dan, not saying a word.


    Just then, two figures descended from the sky. One of them was riding on a copper bell, whereas the other was riding on a spear. Theynded at the entrance of the Moon Monastery one after another.


    Abbess Moonchaser and the other nunsplexions lifted.


    Young master Fang, they are the Spirit Heaven Sect Master and the Flying Eagle Sect Master. It looks like the tides are now on our side, Abbess Clearlotus whispered to Fang Chen.


    The Spirit Heaven Sect Master stowed away her bell before turning to Yao Dan. Brother Yao, theres no need to make a move on the Moon Monastery. We can always talk things out.


    She had a tall stature and long, slender legs. Many of the Qing Province Sword Sects cultivators couldnt stop looking at her.


    In contrast, the Flying Eagle Sect Master was a brawny man. With his spear in hand, he turned to Abbess Moonchaser and asked, Moonchaser, I hope we didnt arrivete.


    You arrived just on time. Abbess Moonchaser nodded.


    Its not that I dont want to talk things out, but shes too greedy to monopolize a fortuitous encounter that our disciples obtained together. Anyone in my position would have been upset, dont you think so? Yao Dan said.


    The Spirit Heaven Sect Master nodded. I understand. I would have felt the same too. Why dont we sit down and discuss how we should allocate the Purple Lightning Talismans legacy?


    The Flying Eagle Sect Master nodded in agreement. Lets do it fairly so that there are no arguments. It wouldnt be good to blow things up, else the South Heaven Sect might get involved too.


    Startled, Abbess Moonchaser looked at the two of them with a frown.


    Moonchaser, well mediate on your behalf. As long as you share the Purple Lightning Talismans legacy among us four, we can peacefully resolve this matter, the Spirit Heaven Sect Master told Abbess Moonchaser with a smile.


    Abbess Clearlotus and the nuns were taken aback too. Something was clearly missing here.


    Those two sect masters should have been helping them deal with the Qing Province Sword Sect, but it looked more like they coveted the Purple Lightning Talismans legacy too!


    You see this, Abbess Moonchaser? Those two will side with fairness over you, Yao Dan sneered.


    You two Abbess Moonchasersplexion didnt look too good. He bribed you?


    Who can possibly bribe us? Were all Foundation Establishment cultivators. None of us are above the other. The Spirit Heaven Sect Master raised her eyebrows. However, we have to be reasonable here. If we get unreasonable itll just lead to unnecessary casualties.


    At this point, she let out a soft sigh and said, Moonchaser, we have known each other for a long time. You know what kind of person I am. This is not a matter you can be wilful about. The Moon Monastery cannot monopolize the Purple Lightning Talismans legacy.


    You should listen to her. The Flying Eagle Master sighed too. You have always been an obstinate one, refusing to listen to our advice on many matters. You ended up damaging your foundation, losing the ability to ever advance to mid Foundation Establishment. Do you want history to repeat itself?


    Ah, so her foundation is impaired Fang Chen nced at Abbess Moonchaser.


    Abbess Moonchaser was silent for a few seconds before shaking his head.


    Ive already told you. The Purple Lightning Talismans legacy was a gift. Without that persons permission, not even I would darey my hands on it. My disciple is the only one in my sect who can practice it.


    Yao Dan and the others sneered. They didnt believe Abbess Moonchasers words.


    The Purple Lightning Talismans legacy could be used as the foundation of a sect. Who in the right mind would give it to another person?


    Moonchaser, why dont you try asking them if they believe you? Yao Dan scoffed. The two of them are already mediating from a fair point of view. I hope that you can show some sincerity. If the three of us join hands, wed only need two hours to massacre your Moon Monastery.


    Moonchaser, you werent like that. It is beneath you to lie. Is it worth doing that for a mere Purple Lightning Talismans legacy? The Spirit Heaven Sect Master frowned. The Moon Monastery seeks to cultivate the heart. Lies will only further impede you from reaching mid Foundation Establishment.


    She then paused and said with a gentle smile. Why dont you hand over the Purple Lightning Talismans legacy for us to examine together? Even if word gets out, and the South Heaven Sect tries toy their hands on it, they would have to think twice about going against all of us.


    Young master Fang, you should leave first. Today is not a good day for our Moon Monastery to host guests, Abbess Moonchaser told Fang Chen.


    Leave? He isnt going anywhere, Yao Dan sneered. He has already made up his mind to interfere in this matter.


    Fang Chenughed. He turned to Abbess Clearlotus and asked, Whats the highest grade of Purple Lightning Talismans you are able to draw?


    Low-grade Abbess Clearlotus reflexively replied.


    Here is a pinnacle Purple Lightning Talisman. Come, feel its power. Itll aid you in drawing pinnacle Purple Lightning Talismans in the future, Fang Chen took out a Purple Lightning Talisman and passed it to Abbess Clearlotus.


    Then, he pointed at the Qing Province Sword Sects Ki Refinement cultivators and said, Now, throw it at them.

 Chapter 250: Kill Him It Is

    Chapter 250: Kill Him It Is


    <em>Pinnacle Purple Lightning Talisman?</em>


    Abbess Clearlotus was taken aback. A pinnacle Purple Lightning Talisman was bound to harness destructive prowess iparable to low-grade Purple Lightning Talismans.


    Yao Dan and the others were taken aback too. <em>Why is this person casually taking out a pinnacle Purple Lightning Talisman? Thats a priceless treasure! Where did he even get it from? </em>


    None of them had ever seen a true pinnacle Purple Lightning Talisman in Infernoze.


    Throw it at them? Abbess Clearlotus was stunned.


    Yes, throw it at them. Theres no need to be afraid. Fang Chen nodded with a smile.


    The innocent Abbess Clearlotus activated the Purple Lightning Talisman with her spirit ki and tossed it at Yao Dan. Purple lightning burst forth from the talisman and enveloped the area.


    How dare you!


    rmed, Yao Dan quickly erected a spirit ki barrier to block the lightning.


    Even so, Yao Dans spirit ki barrier was eroded by a huge degree. Judging by the prowess of the purple lightning, at least half of the Qing Province Sword Sects cultivators would have died if not for Yao Dan!


    Only the twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivators might have possibly survived the attack.


    Not even a pinnacle Purple Lightning Talisman can turn the tides today. Moonchaser, whos that man? the Spirit Heaven Sect Master asked with a frown.


    Right as she said those words, a silver sh of light pierced through Yao Dans spirit ki barrier and weaved in and out of his body. Each strike caused blood to spurt from Yao Dans body.


    Yao Dan stared at Fang Chen in disbelief as blood spewed from his mouth. In just a matter of moments, he had already been stabbed 36 times.


    The Spirit Heaven Sect Master was stunned. The Flying Eagle Sect Master was bbergasted.


    Disbelief surfaced in Abbess Moonchasers eyes. She stared at Fang Chen in a daze.


    First elder!


    The cultivators of the Qing Province Sword Sect were horrified. They wanted to charge at Fang Chen, but they feared the flying sword that breached Yao Dans defense. All they could do was to utter words of rage.


    Little sword returned to Fang Chens side.


    Who in the world are you


    Each time Yao Dan spoke up, he would spew a mouthful of blood. He stared at Fang Chen in fear, hatred, and confusion.


    Abbess Moonchaser, I thought that the Qing Province Sword Sect is a sect of sword cultivators. Am I mistaken? Fang Chen asked Abbess Moonchaser.


    <em>Sword cultivator?!</em>


    The crowd was bewildered. A frightening conjecture surfaced in their minds when they thought about how easily Fang Chen wounded Yao Dan, a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    The Qing Province Sword Sect specializes in swordsmanship, but they arent sword cultivators There is no sword cultivator legacy in our Infernoze Abbess Moonchaser stared at Fang Chen with a frown.


    She thought about Fang Chens master, as well as the special means he possessed. These made her certain that Fang Chen had obtained a sword cultivators legacy!


    This suggested that he might have even more frightening sword cultivators behind him!


    That person is a sword cultivator?!


    How did Moonchaser befriend someone like that?!


    The Spirit Heaven Sect Master and Flying Eagle Sect Master exchanged shocked looks.


    After your big talk, it turns out you arent even a sword cultivator Fang Chen sighed. He turned to Yao Dan and scoffed, If thats all you amounted to, where did you find the guts to steal the Purple Lightning Talismans legacy I gave Abbess Clearlotus?


    <em>He is the one who gave Abbess Clearlotus the Purple Lightning Talismans legacy?!</em>


    Yao Dan, the Spirit Heaven Sect Master, and the Flying Eagle Sect Master were dumbfounded. Their minds quickly spun into action as they struggled to make sense of the situation. Slowly, their faces paled.


    <em>Hes a sword cultivator, and he has the Purple Lightning Talismans legacy </em>


    These suggested that Fang Chen had an extraordinary background. Not even the South Heaven Sect and the Beast Spirit Valley could hold a candle to him


    The Purple Lightning Talismans legacy was rare even in grade-5 states, let alone a grade-6 state like Infernoze. Only in grade-4 states, where talisman legacies were moreplete, were the Purple Lightning Talismans legacy moremon.


    As for sword cultivators that was also a legacy that eluded Infernoze. There were probably no more than a handful of sword cultivators in all of the grade-6 states.


    Yet, these two legacies appeared on a single person. Even a person with an ass for a brain could tell that Fang Chen had a powerful background.


    And the fact that he gave away the Purple Lightning Talismans legacy to someone else suggested that he was in possession of even more terrifying legacies, and the Purple Lightning Talisman was just the tip of the iceberg for him!


    The thought of that made Yao Dan gasp for air, and his injuries further worsened.


    I was blind Yao Dan bitterly murmured.


    Little sword morphed into a sh of silver light and pierced Yao Dans eyes.


    Indeed, you are, Fang Chen replied.


    The Qing Province Sword Sects cultivators were infuriated, but they dared not utter a word after seeing what happened to Yao Dan. Their hearts turned cold.


    <em>So even Foundation Establishment cultivators arent invincible in this world. They are as weak as an ant when faced with a true expert!</em>


    He actually gained the ability to kill an early Foundation Establishment cultivator within such a short time Abbess Moonchaser was astounded.


    Back when she and Elder Jinnan fought with the Blood Spirit Cults Foundation Establishment cultivator in Great Xia, Fang Chen could only support them with his Purple Lightning Talismans. If he possessed such power then, the Blood Spirit Cults Foundation Establishment cultivator would have been taken down in a jiffy!


    Daoist, please spare me! Yao Dan pleaded.


    Abbess Moonchaser, what do you think? Fang Chen asked.


    He wont be grateful to us even if we spare him. If anything, hed harbor a grudge and find ways to get back at us. That is how cultivators are, Abbess Moonchaser cidly said.


    Kill him it is then. Fang Chen nodded.


    Pu!


    Yao Dans head suddenly bent backward. A bloody gorge appeared in his forehead, and pinkish-white matter slowly flowed out.


    Pu!


    Yet another hole appeared in Yao Dans head.


    Pu!


    The hole appeared in Yao Dans heart this time.


    By this point, Yao Dan was already dead.


    Abbess Clearlotus looked at the soul that emerged from Yao Dans body.


    Thetter was initially confused, but he quickly remembered everything that had happened and viciously red at Fang Chen before drifting away.


    Abbess Clearlotus didnt make a move, as she knew that ghosts couldnt survive for long in this world. They didnt have the means to threaten cultivators either. At least, that was the case for the ghosts she had seen thus far.


    Little sword returned to Fang Chens side. Im starving! I killed another Foundation Establishment cultivator. Big brother, give me some food.


    You just ate the Bai ns artifacts and the Moonsunk Gold Ore! Fang Chen pointed out.


    But Im still starving. I want to keep eating so that I can be stronger. Im still too weak.


    Dont worry, youll get your food. I just need some time. Be patient, all right? Fang Chen replied with a sigh.


    Meanwhile, howls of agony echoed. Abbess Moonchaser had killed all of the Qing Province Sword Sects cultivators.


    With that, the only ones left were the Spirit Heaven Sect Master and the Flying Eagle Sect Master. The two of them looked awkward as they eyed Fang Chen with fearful eyes.

 Chapter 251: See It To the End

    Chapter 251: See It To the End


    Moonchaser, since you have resolved the trouble surrounding the Qing Province Sword Sect, well be taking our leave if theres nothing else, the Spirit Heaven Sect Master said with a smile.


    The Flying Eagle Sect Master fearfully eyed Fang Chen. He was guarded against thetter.


    Ling Xu, I thought that you wouldnt be bought over by the Qing Province Sword Sect given our rtionship, but you have truly disappointed me today, Abbess Moonchaser coldly uttered.


    The Spirit Heaven Sect Masters face crumbled. Moonchaser, please dont misunderstand us. Were doing this so that the Moon Monastery can have a firm footing in Infernoze.


    The Qing Province Sword Sect Master is a mid Foundation Establishment cultivator. Even the South Heaven Sects Foundation Establishment cultivators have to treat him with respect. Your Moon Monastery will lose its footing in Infernoze if it offends the Qing Province Sword Sect.


    Moonchaser, we only have good intentions in heart. You have misunderstood us, the Flying Eagle Sect Master added


    What will you do if the Qing Province Sword Sect decides to deal with our Moon Monastery from this day onward? Abbess Moonchaser said with an unreadable expression.


    The two of them jolted. They knew that they might lose their lives here if they misspoke.


    The Spirit Heaven Sect Master pondered about it before replying, It goes without saying that well stand with you given our close ties!


    Indeed. The Flying Eagle Sect Master nodded.


    Young master Fang, since you have gotten involved, why dont you see it to the end? Ill deal with the Spirit Heaven Sect Master. You settle the Flying Eagle Sect Master for me.


    The two of them jolted.


    The Spirit Heaven Sect Master roared in anger, Moonchaser, do our past ties mean nothing to you?!


    The Flying Eagle Sect Master dared not say a word anymore. He devoted his full attention to guarding against Fang Chen. Yao Dan was an example of what would happen if he let his guard down against a sword cultivator, even if for just a split instant.


    Past ties? You have the cheek to say that. Todays affairs have taught me that the friendships I forged in my innocent days arent trustworthy at all, Abbess Moonchaser sneered.


    Her spirit ki flurried as she manifested a horsetail whisk from the surrounding water spirit ki to strike the Spirit Heaven Sect Master.


    Without any hesitation, the Spirit Heaven Sect Master retreated three hundred meters away. She still had a chance here. As long as she could shake off Moonchaser and flee, she could still survive this ordeal.


    In contrast, the Flying Eagle Sect Master was in a terrible position.


    Seeing as the two of them slowly got further away from them, the Flying Eagle Sect Master turned to Fang Chen and nervously asked, Daoist, theres no grudge between us. Can you spare me? I am only a small fry. Killing me serves no purpose to you. Instead, the karma you incur from this will impede you in your Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions in the future.


    The two of us have barely started our journey as cultivators; the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions you speak of is a distant affair. I n to just follow my heart and live with a clear conscience, Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    Little sword whizzed forth.


    The Flying Eagle Sect Master immediately pulled out all of his aces and desperately tried to fend against little sword, even shattering some of his artifacts in the process, but he still lost his life twenty secondster.


    The Moon Monasterys nuns looked at Fang Chen in deference upon witnessing that sight.


    Even Abbess Moonchaser wouldnt have been able to kill a Foundation Establishment cultivator with such ease!


    Young master Fangs cultivation has grown by a terrifying extent, Abbess Clearlotus murmured wistfully.


    Seeing that Abbess Moonchaser was still crossing blows with the Spirit Heaven Sect Master, Fang Chen took the time to collect his spoils of war, particrly Yao Dan and the Flying Eagle Sect Masters storage rings.


    He left the possessions of the Qing Province Sword Sects disciples be, thinking that they would decide its allocation after Abbess Moonchaser was done with her battle.


    Yao Dans storage ring had 200 low-grade ki stones and a 16 daosoul imprints artifact.


    The Flying Eagle Sect Masters storage ring had 100 low-grade ki stones and a bunch of spirit herbs and spirit medicine. It was unfortunate that his artifact had shattered while crossing blows with Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen fed these two artifacts to little sword, satiating its hunger for the time being. However, little sword quickly turned its eyes toward the artifacts of the Qing Province Sword Sects disciples.


    No rush. We havent split the loot yet. You can take a rest first, Fang Chen said with a smile.


    Little sword slipped into Fang Chens body, and soon, it started snoring. It was digesting the artifacts it had consumed.


    Fang Chen could sense little swords aura slowly growing. The stronger little sword was, the stronger his physical body would be when they were fused together.


    Sword cultivators term this state as Sword Body. No wonder countless people seek to be sword cultivators even though their lifespans tend to be shorter than normal cultivators.


    The benefits of Sword Body were clear.


    The art of sword morph was one, but the enhanced resilience was a huge advantage. Cultivators were made of flesh and blood. While they could bolster their defense with spirit ki, they could still be outdone by mortals once they lost their spirit ki.


    This was true for all cultivators, unless they practiced a physical enhancement method.


    However, cultivators who specialized in physical enhancement were even rarer than sword cultivators. It was not that physical enhancement methods were rare, but hardly any cultivator was willing to waste their spirit ki on reinforcing their physical body.


    Reinforcing ones physical body did nothing to boost ones cultivation; they would rather devote their spirit ki to forging their immortal vein.


    This was true for not just Ki Refinement cultivators but Foundation Establishment, Golden Core, and Nascent Soul cultivators too. They required an immense amount of spirit ki to make a breakthrough.


    Sword Body granted a sword cultivator resilience superior to a physical enhancement cultivator, making them a terrifying foe both in terms of offensive and defensive prowess.


    Little sword only requires artifacts to grow stronger. If I can gather enough spirit materials or even find a spirit mine for it Fang Chens head heated up.


    Strengthening little sword would raise the prowess of his Sword Body too, thus making him far stronger than his peers.


    Abbess Moonchaser and the Spirit Heaven Sect Master slowly drifted further away from the Moon Monastery in the midst of their fight, to the point where Abbess Clearlotus couldnt see them anymore.


    Young master Fang, will my master be fine? Abbess Clearlotus asked worriedly.


    Your master is a prudent person. She would only make a move if shes confident of victory, Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    Abbess Clearlotus and the others breathed a sigh of relief.


    An hourter, Abbess Moonchaser returned. Her robe was covered in blood. Some of her injuries were so deep that they exposed her bones, but she didnt seem to be in pain at all.


    The Spirit Heaven Sect Master exploded her artifact and fled. Abbess Moonchaser eyed the Flying Eagle Sect Masters corpse and felt a little ufortable.


    A person whom she considered to be her junior had easily dealt with Yao Dan and the Flying Eagle Sect Master, whereas she was injured by the Spirit Heaven Sect Master and still failed to take her down. This wounded her pride a little.


    How far away is the Spirit Heaven Sect? Fang Chen asked.


    Abbess Moonchaser shook her head. She wont return there anytime soon.


    She can run, but her sect cant. We can plunder some of their artifacts and spirit materials too. Fang Chen smiled.


    Abbess Moonchaser was startled. Seconds of silence passed before she nodded. Ill lead you thereter.


    The two of them proceeded to split the loot. That added some artifacts into Fang Chens storage ring. They werent of particrly high grade, but they could pass as snacks for little sword.


    He decided to keep the additional storage rings for now, figuring that he might find a use for them in the future.


    He curretnly had around 1800 low-grade ki stones in his storage ring, four passable artifacts, two Jadegreen Lotus Seeds, and a handful of ordinary spirit herbs and spirit medicine.

 Chapter 252: Even Sect Locations Could Be Auctioned

    Chapter 252: Even Sect Locations Could Be Auctioned


    Sects can be auctioned off?


    In the Moon Monastery, Fang Chen frowned in bewilderment after hearing a rather peculiar piece of news from Abbess Moonchaser.


    Sects are usually founded in ces with spirit springs, spirit fields, or spirit veins. In any case, those are blessednds, so naturally they have a value to them. Anything of value in the world of cultivation can be auctioned off, Abbess Moonchaser exined. Of course, youd need to have the power to conquer thend and make others acknowledge it too.


    Youre saying that the Spirit Heaven Sect and the Flying Eagle Sect can be traded for spirit materials? Fang Chen asked contemtively.


    Young master Fang, do you need more artifacts? Your flying sword appears to be a high-grade artifact, Artifact Moonchaser asked.


    The more the merrier. Fang Chen chuckled, not borating more on it. How much do you think the Spirit Heaven Sect and the Flying Eagle Sects locations are worth?


    The Spirit Heaven Sect has a small spirit spring that produces 500 grams of spirit water each day. Other than that, they also have a spirit field that spans around 300 meters square. That should be worth far more than 2000 low-grade ki stones, but such trades tend toe with risks for the buyer, so the prices are suppressed, Abbess Moonchaser said.


    As for the Flying Eagle Sect, they have a spirit vein that boosts the surrounding spirit ki concentration by 50% to 60%. Its enough for a Foundation Establishment cultivator and a hundred Ki Refinement cultivators to use. That should be worth at least 2500 low-grade ki stones.


    Abbess Clearlotus widened her mouth, and shock flickered across her eyes. She hadnt expected a sects location to be worth that many ki stones.


    <em>2000 and 2500 ki stones? How much is that?! </em>She tried to make aparison with whatever she could think of.


    Lets not waste time. Shall we set out now, Abbess Moonchaser? Lets split our earnings by half, Fang Chen said.


    Ah Ill pass on it. Abbess Moonchaser shook her head.


    Oh? Abbess Moonchaser, I dont think you would be indifferent to ki stones, right? Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    Abbess Moonchaser chuckled. Of course not, but theres a condition to selling a sects location. You must be influential enough to hold your ground. Im only an early Foundation Establishment cultivator. That isnt enough to intimidate others. I wont be able to shoulder the consequences if something happens. But its different for you, young master Fang. If I may ask, are you a sword cultivator?


    Her face turned grim at this point.


    Indeed I am. Fang Chen nodded.


    He was faking it in the past, but he was now a true sword cultivator after having practiced the Eight Barrens Immortal Subjugation Peerless Swordsmanship. Just his Sword Body itself made him invulnerable to many means.


    Indeed Abbess Moonchaser remarked. Your identity as a sword cultivator qualifies you to sell the Spirit Heaven Sect and Flying Eagle Sects locations. The others wont dare to say a thing about it.


    After some discussion, they decided to target the Spirit Heaven Sect first.


    It was unlikely that the Flying Eagle Sect knew that the Flying Eagle Sect Master was dead yet, so that could still wait.


    I shall steer clear for this matter, Abbess Moonchaser said. I shall have Clearlotus lead the way, all right?


    Fine, but I can only bring one person with me. Can I leave Liu Mu with you in the Moon Monastery for the time being? Fang Chen asked.


    Of course. Hes only a child. Abbess Moonchaser nodded with a smile.


    Fang Chen grabbed Abbess Clearlotus and soared into the sky, moving at an incredible speed of over 500 kilometers per hour. Even so, he still spent a day before arriving at the Spirit Heaven Sect.


    Young master Fangs cultivation has reached an unfathomable level Abbess Clearlotus was stunned.


    Abbess Moonchaser had brought her to the Spirit Heaven Sect too, and they traveled via the sky too, but they took two days before arriving at the destination. They even had to take a short break for her to recover her spirit ki in between.


    In contrast, Fang Chen didnt need to rest at all, though he did slow his speed a couple times


    So, the Spirit Heaven Sect, Flying Eagle Sect, Qing Province Sword Sect, your Moon Monastery, and Li Daoyes Eight Trigrams Sect are all located in the Qing Province? How many provinces are there in Infernoze? Fang Chen casually asked.


    Abbess Clearlotus thought about it before replying, There should be four provincesthe Qing Province, the Xu Province, the Hong Province, and the Wei Province. Infernozes capital is located in the Xu Province. The South Heaven Sect is also located in the Xu Province.


    The Hong Province and the Wei Province in the northern region, and they are considered to be the Beast Spirit Valleys turf. Its moremon to see faes and beasts there.


    How long does it take to travel from here to the Xu Province? Fang Chen asked.


    My master said that it took her six to seven days to rush there, but in young master Fangs case, I think itll only take you three days or so, Abbess Clearlotus said.


    Thats good to hear. Fang Chne nodded.


    Young master Fang, the Spirit Heaven City is up ahead. The Spirit Heaven Mountain is located in the city. Abbess Clearlotus pointed out.


    Fang Chen looked over and saw a massive city sprawled on the ground like a ferocious beast. The scale was much grander than Great Xias capital.


    And this was only one of the hundred cities in Infernozes Four Provinces! Its capital was bound to be even more majestic!


    Young master Fang, Infernoze has an imperialw that prohibits flight in the city. Shall wend at the city entrance? Abbess Clearlotus asked.


    Is Infernozes imperial n stronger or the South Heaven Sect stronger? Fang Chen asked out of curiosity.


    Of course the imperial n is stronger! All of the sects in Infernoze are subservient to the imperial n, simr to the martial arts sect in Great Xia, Abbess Clearlotus replied.


    Fang Chen nodded. He had deduced as much since this was a more stable configuration.


    All sorts of problems would have arisen if the sects had shaken free of the imperial ns influence. For instance, the imperial n would struggle to implement itsws in some areas. Perhaps, a prince might even be randomly decapitated while walking on the street.


    Even worse, if a sect were to eliminate the imperial n on a whim, it could cause great trouble. The sect could just strut away, but it would spark a war among the territories under the imperial ns governance, potentially causing great casualties.


    This might happen to Great Xia as it developed too.


    Fang Chen didnt want to challenge the authority of Infernozes imperial n, so he and Abbess Clearlotusnded in front of the citys entrance.


    Cultivators were moremon in Infernoze than Great Xia, but that didnt mean that they weremonce. It was even rarer to see a cultivator capable of flightthat was viewed as the mark of a powerhouse.


    The nearby popce noticed that Fang Chen and Abbess Clearlotus had descended from the sky, so they looked at them with deferential eyes.


    Where are you from? one of the garrison troops politely asked.


    The rules dictated that even cultivators had to register themselves before entering a city.


    Guhe, Fang Chen casually replied.


    The garrison troop didnt even bother to ask where Guhe was before letting Fang Chen pass. Clearly, this was only a standard procedure. The garrison troops wouldnt fuss over whether the details were true or not, so long as the guest had registered with them.


    Meanwhile, the Spirit Heaven City Lord was holding a feast.


    Jade tables filled with all kinds of delicacies were presented to the guests, while they enjoyed the graceful dance performance of beautiful artisans. Two spirit incense sticks were lit, suffusing the room with spirit ki.


    The Spirit Heaven City Lords hair had already turned white, but his body was built like a bear. He merrily raised his wine cup to a skinny old man, saying, Flood Dragon Ind Master, let me toast you!


    The skinny old man impassively nodded. He gulped down the spirit wine before saying, Spirit Heaven City Lord, I dont know many people in Infernoze. I visited you today with the hopes that you can find a person for me.

 Chapter 253: Unruly

    Chapter 253: Unruly


    The Spirit Heaven City Lord was startled before bursting intoughter. I might be unable to do anything about the vast ocean, but I can most definitely help Flood Dragon Ind Master to find a person in Infernoze. May I know the name and the sect of the person youre looking for?


    The Flood Dragon Ind Master impassively replied, We wouldnt need your help if we knew his name and his sect.


    The Spirit Heaven City Lords smile stiffened up, but soon, he squeezed out an even warmer smile and said, Please fill me in on the details, Flood Dragon Ind Master. I have connections here. It shouldnt be too tough to find him as long as hes in the Qing Province.


    Im not certain whether hes in the Viridescent Province, but he wounded our Sea Dragon Sects cultivators. I n on demanding an exnation from him. Itd be best if you can find him, or else its fine too. Ill take it as me taking a trip to visit an old friend.


    Who dares to wound the Sea Dragon Sects cultivators? The Spirit Heaven City Lord was astonished.


    <em>Which Infernoze cultivator is so foolish as to court trouble for their own sect? Even Infernozes imperial n would turn a blind eye to their plight as the Sea Dragon Sect massacres their sect!</em>


    Its a young junior, the Flood Dragon Ind Master casually replied.


    That junior must be a formidable one, or else it wouldnt have warranted Flood Dragon Ind Master to personally make the trip here. Its known that Flood Dragon Ind Master ranks in the top three of the Sea Dragon Sects Nine Ind Masters! the Spirit Heaven City Lord probed.


    Someone who was being pursued by ate Foundation Establishment cultivator was likely to be anything but weak. He didnt think that anything good coulde out of getting involved in this.<em></em>


    Theres no need to probe. That person should be at early Foundation Establishment, or, at best, mid Foundation Establishment. I can subdue him as long as you find him for me. It wont bring you trouble, the Flood Dragon Ind Master said. Besides, your Infernozes imperial n is on close terms with grade-5 states sects. With such backing, what do you have to fear?


    The Spirit Heaven City Lord exhaled in relief.


    <em>It should be fine if its just an ordinary early or mid Foundation Establishment cultivator. It doesnt seem like the Sea Dragon Sect fears this person, so I should have nothing to fear too since I have the backing of Infernozes imperial n.</em>


    This is his portrait. Ill be staying in Spirit Heaven City for now, and Ill leave if you cant find him within seven days.


    The Flood Dragon Ind Master took out a jade seal and channeled his spirit ki into it, and Fang Chens portrait appeared before the Spirit Heaven City Lord.


    Ill do my best to find this person on your behalf. The Spirit Heaven City Lord nodded.


    With a wave of his sleeves, fifty paper cranes flew out and circled in the room.


    Remember his appearance. Find this man at all costs, the Spirit Heaven City Lord ordered.


    The paper cranes scattered in all directions in shes of white light.


    Rest assured, Flood Dragon Ind Master. I have ryed the word to the other city lords and major sects in the Qing Province. They will help us too, the Spirit Heaven City Lord said with a smile.


    Ive troubled you. The Flood Dragon Ind Master sped his fist.


    Strangers arent allowed in the Spirit Heaven Mountain.


    Fang Chen and Abbess Clearlotus arrived at the foot of the Spirit Heaven Mountain, which was located south of the Spirit Heaven City. There was a bustling market at the foot of the mountain, with many vendors hailing for customers.


    But when the two of them tried to scale the mountain, several martial artists leaped out and blocked their path. These martial artists were strong, having reached Heaven Profound realm.


    Why doesnt your Moon Monastery keep martial artists? Fang Chen asked Abbess Clearlotus.


    Master said that they are troublesome to manage despite not doing much, Abbess Clearlotus replied with a hushed voice.


    The martial artists were astounded to hear their exchange.


    One of them politely asked, May I ask who you are?


    We are here to take over the Spirit Heaven Sect, Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    T-take over the Spirit Heaven Sect?


    The martial artists thought that they had heard wrongly. They hurriedly exchanged looks, but they could see the shock in one anothers eyes.


    You heard it right. Were here to take over the Spirit Heaven Sect. This has nothing to do with martial artists like you, so I suggest you step aside, Fang Chen said.


    The martial artists looked conflicted. The next second, all of them darted up the mountain.


    Paying them no heed, Fang Chen began marching up the mountain with Abbess Clearlotus. Their pace was so leisurely that it seemed as if they were here to y.


    Young master, why notunch a surprise assault? Abbess Clearlotus was confused.


    Even she understood that they were giving the Spirit Heaven Sect time to put up their defense.


    Its better to deal with them in a single swoop. The more time they have to prepare, the easier it is for us, Fang Chen replied.


    Abbess Clearlotus still looked a little confused.


    The Spirit Heaven Sect had 68 cultivators in total. Half of them were inner disciples, and the other half were outer disciples. Many of them used to be unaffiliated cultivators, but they were brought in by the Spirit Heaven Sect Master to serve as managers.


    Other than the Spirit Heaven Sect Master, the Spirit Heaven Sect had a few esteemed old ancestors, but they were at twelfth stage Ki Refinement. They couldnt advance to Foundation Establishment as they were unable to secure Foundation Establishment Pills.


    Immortal Chen, bad news!


    The Heaven Profound realm martial artists rushed up the mountain and shouted at the disciples guarding the sect entrance.


    Calm down, your unruly behavior is unseemly! Those who dont know better might think that someone is tearing our Spirit Heaven Sect apart! one of the disciples guarding the entrance berated the martial artists with a frown.


    This disciple was only at fourth stage Ki Refinement, such that he wasnt even a match for these martial artists, but the sense of superiority he felt as a cultivator stopped him from putting down his airs when interacting with mortals.


    The martial artists looked flustered.


    One of them reported with a suppressed voice, Immortal Chen, we met two people at the foot of the mountain. One of them seems to be a nun from the Moon Monastery, and we dont know the background of the other one. They said they are here to take over the Spirit Heaven Sect.


    The Moon Monastery? Our sect master is an old friend of the Moon Monasterys Abbess Moonchaser. You also met her a few times, so why are you so flustered? the disciple sneered.


    The martial artists quietly stared at him.


    Secondster, the disciple sensed that something was amiss and eximed, Wait, what did you just say? They said they are here to take over the Spirit Heaven Sect?


    The martial artists vehemently nodded.


    The disciples heart sank.


    In the world of cultivation, the only times when such words were uttered at someone elses turf was when there was a deep-seated grudge between both parties. Not daring to dawdle around, he sternly ordered the martial artists to guard the gate before rushing into the mountain.


    Bad news, bad news! Someone is here to destroy our Spirit Heaven Sect!


    Junior Chen, why are you causing such a huge fuss? Someone wants to destroy our Spirit Heaven Sect? Who would dare?


    Junior Chen, what are you saying?!


    The other disciples of the Spirit Heaven Sect berated him.


    Momentster, an old man with white beard descended from the sky with a few other cultivators. He grimly asked, What did you just say?


    First elder! Junior Chen eximed. I just received word from the martial artists stationed at the foot of the mountain that they met two people who im to be here to take over our Spirit Heaven Sect.


    The first elder was the master of the Spirit Heaven Sect Master, a twelfth stage Ki Refinement expert. He was the one in charge of the Spirit Heaven Sect when the Spirit Heaven Sect Master wasnt around.

 Chapter 254: First Cripple Him

    Chapter 254: First Cripple Him


    Hahaha! The Spirit Heaven Sects first elder burst intoughter, his hulking figure trembled nonstop. The surrounding Spirit Heaven Sects disciplesughed as well.


    Junior Chen was taken aback.


    Secondster, the Spirit Heaven Sects first elder reined in hisughter and impassively looked at Junior Chen. Do you still remember where you are?


    The Spirit Heaven Sect Junior Chen instinctively replied.


    How does the Spirit Heaven Sect rank in Infernoze? The Spirit Heaven Sects first elder smiled, as if earnestly educating a junior.


    The Spirit Heaven Sect is a first-rate sect in Infernoze. Even the Spirit Heaven City Lord would maintain the highest level of courtesy here, Junior Chen hurriedly replied.


    His mind slowly cleared up, and his panic subsided. He quickly apologized, First Elder, I was blinded by my anxiety. Please forgive me for my earlier impudence.


    Thats more like it. This is the Spirit Heaven Sect. Who dares to cause trouble here? the first elder remarked with augh. Follow me to the sect entrance. Id like to see who is the brazen one who boasts about taking over our Spirit Heaven Sect.


    Senior, what happened?


    Another gray-robed old man arrived at the scene. He was skinnier than the first elder, and he had a distinctive goatee. He was apanied by a few other cultivators who emanated strong auras.


    Second Junior, someone says they want to take over our Spirit Heaven Sect. Our disciple panicked upon hearing that and caused a fuss. Its nothing much, the first elder replied.


    The second elder was startled before revealing a bewildered smile. Someone wants to take over our Spirit Heaven Sect? Hahaha! Who dares utter such arrogant words? Wheres our sect master? Lets invite her out to take a look!


    Our sect master has headed to the Moon Monastery to settle some business. We will suffice against the intruders. So what if the intruder is a Foundation Establishment cultivator? Lets see if he dares run amok in our Spirit Heaven Sect! The first elder chuckled.


    How can you miss me for something like that?


    Another old man descended from the sky. He emanated the aura of a twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator too.


    The surrounding disciples lowered their heads deferentially.


    This old man was the Spirit Heaven Sects third elder. He was known to be obsessed with swordsmanship. While he was not a true sword cultivator, he had subdued countless cultivators of the same cultivation as him with his sword.


    Not even the first elder and the second elder were a match for him.


    With this, the three most senior elders of the Spirit Heaven Sect were all here. This was not a force to be made light of.


    If not for the difficulty in acquiring a Foundation Establishment Pill, the three of them would have likely already advanced to Foundation Establishment!


    A few managers and disciples btedly arrived on the scene, and they followed the three elders to the sect entrance. All in all, they formed a formidable army of over fifty cultivators.


    The Heaven Profound realm martial artists at the sect entrance froze in shock.


    You cant expect anything from martial artists. They panic as soon as something happens, the first elder nced at the martial artists and cidly remarked.


    The martial artists felt ashamed, but they were no longer as panicked. Regardless of the backgrounds of the two intruders, they no longer stood a chance now that all three of their elders were gathered here.


    Whos the one seeking to take over our Spirit Heaven Sect? the first elder coldly asked.


    They are still scaling the mountain, but they are moving very slowly, almost as if almost as if they are strolling in their own garden! one of the martial artists reported.


    How arrogant.


    A cold glint shed across the third elders eyes, and a flying sword emerged from his forehead. It was an ego artifact!


    The surrounding cultivators looked at the flying sword in envy.


    A cultivator with an ego artifact could easily overpower opponents of the same cultivation stage. On top of that, they could fly on their ego artifact too.


    Even the first elder and the second elder were envious of the third elder, but the third elders ego nurturing method wasnt from the Spirit Heaven Sect, so they couldnt ask for it.


    The third elder chuckled. It has been a while since my sword has tasted blood. I shall let it drink its fill today!


    Third Junior, dont kill him yet. We need to get to the bottom of the matter, the first elder said.


    I know, senior. The third elder nodded.


    Just then, two figures, a man and a woman, could be spotted slowly strolling toward the sect entrance. The man was young and dashing, but the woman was a bald nun.


    It is the Moon Monasterys Clearlotus. Shes Abbess Moonchasers disciple, the first elder said with a frown. I have met her a couple times. Could our disciples have heard wrongly? Our sect has always maintained close ties with the Moon Monastery. Why would she bring someone here to take over our Spirit Heaven Sect?


    The crowd was baffled too.


    However, the third elder coldly said, Eternal friendship doesnt exist in this world. Sometimes, its necessary to turn ones de to a familiar face in order to survive.


    The crowd quietly savored the third elders words.


    Meanwhile, Fang Chen and Abbess Clearlotus had arrived at the sect entrance, standing just ten meters away from the Spirit Heaven Sects cultivators.


    Clearlotus, do you still remember me? the first elder asked.


    Abbess Clearlotus took a few looks at the old man before turning to Fang Chen to exin, Young master Fang, he is the master of the Spirit Heaven Sect Master, as well as the Spirit Heaven Sects first elder. Hes a twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator. My master says that hes a sly person, so you need to be careful when dealing with him!


    <em>Youre saying our first elder is sly in front of him and the rest of us?</em>


    The Spirit Heaven Sects cultivators were first speechless before ring at Abbess Clearlotus with dagger eyes.


    They havee with malice. Abbess Moonchaser must be involved in this too. The second elder narrowed his eyes.


    The third elder didnt bother sparing a nce at Fang Chen or Abbess Clearlotus. He was focused on his flying sword, gently stroking it with a benevolent face.


    Are the two of you really here to take over our Spirit Heaven Sect? the first elder asked with a mocking smile.


    Why else would we travel all the way here? Fang Chen chuckled. Are all of your cultivators here yet?


    A mere junior dares to utter such arrogant words. Which sect are you from? The first elder frowned. He turned to Abbess Clearlotus and asked, Why is your Moon Monastery working with outsiders to deal with our Spirit Heaven Sect?


    You were the ones who first made a move against our Moon Monastery! My master says that its fair retaliation, Abbess Clearlotus argued.


    <em>Huh?</em> The crowd was confused.


    Dont waste your breath. Lets cripple him first and interrogate themter, the third elder said.


    His flying sword suddenly darted like a sh of lightning toward Fang Chen, but his head remained lowered, and his eyes were looking elsewhere.


    Fang Chen could sense little swords excited cheers. <em>Eat it! Eat it! Eat it! </em>


    No rush. Youll get to eat all you want today, Fang Chen replied with a chuckle.


    He raised his arm and grabbed the lightning-swift flying sword with his bare hands. The flying sword whirred in his hand, emanating a cold sword intent, but it couldnt even cut Fang Chens skin.


    This sight caused the faces of the first elder and the others to turn grim.


    Only the third elder remained oblivious to the situation; he continued looking elsewhere, as if there were fairies bathing there. Seconds passed before he noticed the stifling silence around him and raised his head.


    What he saw caused his face to turn green.

 Chapter 255: Gossiping

    Chapter 255: Gossiping


    How is this possible the third elder muttered in incredulity.


    <em>Indeed. How is this possible? </em>Everyone else in the Spirit Heaven Sect were shocked too.


    The first elder and the second elder exchanged shocked looks. Even they couldnt hope to catch the third elders flying sword with such ease!


    Rise! the third elder suddenly bellowed as he channeled his spirit ki into his flying sword.


    ng ng ng!


    The flying sword vibrated violently in Fang Chens grasp as it attempted to break free, producing a sound reminiscent of metals scraping against each other. Sparks flew everywhere.


    Cant you calm down a little?


    Fang Chen flicked his finger, and the flying swords tip shattered.


    Pu!


    The third elder spewed blood.


    Unlike normal artifacts, ego artifacts had a tighter bond to their master. Due to that, any damage sustained by the ego artifact would rebound to its master too.


    What kind of means is that?! The first elders heart skipped a beat.


    How could a body of flesh and blood shatter a 12 daosoul imprints flying sword so easily?!


    You seem awfully confident in your swordsmanship? Fang Chen looked at the third elder and scoffed. But you cant even protect your flying sword. What gave you the guts to act so proudly as to refuse to even look at me?


    The third elders face reddened. He had been humiliated before the entire Spirit Heaven Sect!


    Who are you? Why dont you tell us if our Spirit Heaven Sect has offended you in any way? The first elder cleared his throat and tried to clear the air.


    Ill get to the point then. Your sect master and the Flying Eagle Sect Master colluded with the Qing Province Sword Sects First Elder Yao Dan to coerce Abbess Moonchaser into giving in to their demands, Fang Chen smiled.


    Yao Dan and the Flying Eagle Sect Master are dead now, but your Spirit Heaven Sect Master managed to get away. However, thats not an issue. Its unlikely that shell return any time soon, so you should think of her as dead.


    The Spirit Heaven Sects cultivators couldnt believe what they were hearing.


    Those were all Foundation Establishment cultivators! In particr, the Qing Province Sword Sects Yao Dan was known to be particrly powerful. Their third elder even visited Yao Dan many times to consult him on issues rting to swordsmanship, such that Yao Dan could be considered as half his master


    What nonsense are you spouting? How can Foundation Establishment cultivators die just like that? Abbess Moonchaser doesnt have the power to pull that off! the second elder said with narrowed eyes.


    Indeed! The first elder voiced his agreement. Abbess Moonchaser doesnt have the means to pull that off. What do you intend to achieve by spreading such falsehoods here? Stop using that ludicrous reason of taking over our sect as an excuse!


    You should hear about Yao Dan and the Flying Eagle Sect Masters demise soon. By then, youd know whether Im lying or not. Regardless, Im still going to take over the Spirit Heaven Sect today to sell it out, Fang Chen coldly said.


    You can try to stop me, but itll end in bloodshed. Ill give you a chance here. Leave all your artifacts, ki stones, storage rings, and everything of value in the sect and leave the mountain empty-handed. Ill be taking over everything here.


    The Spirit Heaven Sects cultivators were infuriated to hear that. <em>Youll be taking over everything in our Spirit Heaven Sect?! What arrogant words!</em>


    Dont think that you can do whatever you want just because you got the upper hand against my Third Junior! the first elder sneered.


    He and the second elder simultaneously charged forth and unleashed their artifacts.


    The next instant, their artifacts were shattered by a silver sh.


    Pu!


    Pu!


    The two of them coughed blood and nearly fell on their bums. Their artifacts had beenpletely destroyed!


    The third elder suddenly gasped in shock. You are a sword cultivator! Yes, you must be a sword cultivator! Rumors have it that a sword cultivators Sword Body makes their body indestructible! Thats how you were able to catch my flying sword with your bare hands!


    The other disciples were confused as to what the words, sword cultivator, meant.


    However, the first elder and the second elder were horrified. The two of them stared at Fang Chen in disbelief. To be able to break their artifacts in an instant, they had to admit that Fang Chens means did resemble that of a sword cultivator.


    You still have eyes, Fang Chen said. Since you have heard about sword cultivators, you should also know the consequences of going against me here. Ill give you ten minutes to persuade your fellow sect members to make the wiser choice here.


    With that, he closed his eyes.


    Abbess Clearlotus thought that Fang Chen was taking a brief rest, but she wasnt concerned as she thought that he had it in the bag.


    Meanwhile, Fang Chens soul floated above the Spirit Heaven City.


    Since his encounter with the Blood Spirit Cult, he made it a habit to astral project his soul and survey a ce whenever he had time, so as to see if there were any Blood Spirit Cultists acting undercover.


    There are quite a few cultivators in the Spirit Heaven City, but there are only two Foundation Establishment cultivators here


    Fang Chen turned his sight to the City Lord Manor.


    He was particrly sensitive to spirit ki pulsations when he was in his soul form. It only took an instant for him to arrive in the City Lord Manor.


    The two Foundation Establishment cultivators were chatting here. One was at early Foundation Establishment, whereas the others aura felt much stronger.


    Mid Foundation Establishment? No, its more than that. Hes likely to be atte Foundation Establishment. Fang Chen looked at the stronger cultivator with contemtive eyes.


    This cultivator''s aura was stronger than anyone else he had ever seen.


    The South Heaven Sects Elder Jinnan was a mid Foundation Establishment cultivator, but this cultivators aura far surpassed him. Thus, he deduced that this cultivator was atte Foundation Establishment.


    The two of them know how to enjoy themselves.


    Fang Chen eyed the delicaciesid out on the jade table, as well as the lit spirit incense sticks. He chuckled.


    Flood Dragon Ind Master, I have sent the word out. They will report to the City Lord Manor as soon as they spot that junior, the Spirit Heaven City Lord said with a smile.


    Mm. The Flood Dragon Ind Master nodded. Im counting on you.


    The two of them appeared to be scheming against someone. Fang Chens curiosity was piqued.


    Then, the Spirit Heaven City Lord channeled his spirit ki into a jade seal, and Fang Chen saw his face appearing in mid-air.


    He isnt a cultivator from our Infernoze, right? the Spirit Heaven City Lord asked.


    Dont bother. I dont know where hes from either. All you need to know is that he has offended our Sea Dragon Sect, and the only fate awaiting him is death, the Flood Dragon Ind Master sneered.


    It felt weird to stumble upon his own gossip. Fang Chen took a closer look at the Flood Dragon Ind Master.


    It went without saying that this person was one of the Sea Dragon Sects ind masters, simr to the Blue Mountain Ind Master. However, this Flood Dragon Ind Master was clearly much stronger, being atte Foundation Establishment.


    Such prowess was enough for him to run unchecked in Infernoze!


    With his strength and his background, even the South Heaven Sect and the Beast Spirit Valley would have to show some respect to him.


    <em>What are my odds if I go against ate Foundation Establishment cultivator? </em>Fang Chen wondered.


    Thus far, he had killed three early Foundation Establishment cultivatorsthe Blue Mountain Ind Master, Yao Dan, and the Flying Eagle Sect Master. They were at the same cultivation stage, but the Blue Mountain Ind Master was significantly stronger than the other two.


    Even so, the Blue Mountain Ind Master still instantly died in the face of the Eight Barrens Immortal Subjugation Peerless Swordsmanships first form. This suggested that it might be enough to deal with mid Foundation Establishment cultivators too.


    <em>But if I go up against ate Foundation Establishment cultivator I dont stand a chance at all.</em>


    Fang Chens face turned grim.

 Chapter 256: Completely Taking Over

    Chapter 256: Completely Taking Over


    Fang Chen had previously analyzed how strong an early Foundation Establishment cultivator wasthey were far stronger than a twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator, such that even saying that they were ten times stronger was an understatement.


    Mid Foundation Establishment cultivators, judging from Elder Jinnans prowess back then, were around seven to eight times stronger than an early Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    And this was by the standards of Infernozes cultivators.


    The Sea Dragon Sect, a sect with a Golden Core old ancestor, was bound to have a moreplete cultivation method. This was evident from how the Blue Mountain Ind Master was significantly stronger than Yao Dan and the Flying Eagle Sect Master even though they were at the same cultivation stage.


    From this, it would be safe to assume that the Flood Dragon Ind Master was beyond his current means to deal with, even if he resorted to the Eight Barrens Immortal Subjugation Peerless Swordsmanships first form


    He might be able to harm the Flood Dragon Ind Master, but the odds of killing thetter were likely to be zero.


    I could still consider it if I forge my eleventh immortal vein and further strengthen little sword, but till then


    With that, Fang Chen returned his soul to his body.


    The Spirit Heaven Sects third elder was busy rying something to the first elder and the second elder.


    First Senior, Second Senior, we have no choice but to give up the Spirit Heaven Sect if he is a sword cultivator. As long as theres a breath in us, even if we lose our base, we can always make aeback. But if we die it will be over for the Spirit Heaven Sect!


    Third Junior, do we stand no chance at all? I dont think he has reached Foundation Establishment yet


    Dont make light of a sword cultivator. They are more terrifying than you can imagine! Each sword cultivator could have a bunch of old monsters behind them. Sword cultivators are known for their unrivaled offensive prowessyou can tell as much through what he has done. Even if we defeated him, do you think our sect stands a chance against the old monsters behind him?


    This


    Stop hesitating. Our Spirit Heaven Sect isnt the only one to have been put in such a situation before. Think about what the other sects had to do to survive. Is your pride more important than your life?


    Fine, lets go with this for now. Well decide what to do next once we meet our sect master. Well lower our heads for today


    Are you done discussing? Fang Chen suddenly spoke up.


    Yes, we are done. The first elder nodded with an awful look. Well do as you say. I hope youll hold to the end of your promise and not hurt any of us.


    Remember, you arent to take anything with you. Every de of grass here belongs to me. Fang Chen smiled.


    The faces of the three elders further darkened, but they dared not refute him. The Heaven Profound realm martial artists and the disciples guarding the entrance gate hung their heads even lower.


    Every Spirit Heaven Sects cultivator who walked past Fang Chen would be thoroughly searched so as to ensure that they brought nothing with them.


    It took less than an hour for the Spirit Heaven Sect to be emptied out.


    All of the Spirit Heaven Sects cultivators descended from the mountain with their three elders. They didnt have a ki stone, artifact, or pill with them. They had left those on the mountain.


    First Elder, are we leaving just like that? some of the Spirit Heaven Sects cultivators asked in indignation. They couldnt help but nce at the mountain as they said those words, fearing that Fang Chen would overhear them.


    What else can you do? the first elder coldly replied. You should be d to have escaped with your lives.


    Well first head to the City Lord Manor and inform the city lord about what happened. There might still be a chance to turn things around, the second elder said.


    That perked the crowd up.


    Their city lord was backed by Infernozes imperial n. If he chose to help them, there was a chance they could turn the tables on Fang Chen.


    On the mountain, Fang Chen tallied the artifacts. There were 53 of them in total, and they were of varying daosoul imprints.


    This flying sword is decent. It has ten daosoul imprints. You can take it.


    Fang Chen picked out one of the artifacts and tossed it to Abbess Clearlotus. Thetter was still using the same artifact as when she was still at second stage Ki Refinement, such that it was no longer suited for her.


    Young master Fang, are you giving this to me? Abbess Clearlotus was taken aback.


    This artifact was worth quite a bit of low-grade ki stones.


    Take it. Fang Chen nodded with a smile.


    He fed the remaining artifacts to little sword, including Yao Dans and the Flying Eagle Sect Masters artifacts.


    Little sword merrily feasted on the artifacts. Its aura strengthened with each artifact it devoured. After devouring dozens of artifacts, it returned to Fang Chens body to digest them.


    Abbess Clearlotus was intrigued.


    She thought that Fang Chen had used some kind of smithing skill to fuse those artifacts into his flying sword. Little did she know that little sword had really devoured those artifacts.


    After dealing with the artifacts, Fang Chen proceeded to tally the ki stones. It turned out that there was a huge fortune to be earned by taking over a sect.


    All in all, he gained 3600 low-grade ki stones from the Spirit Heaven Sect. Most of them came from the three elders, the managers, and the Spirit Heaven Sects vault. With that, Fang Chens wealth increased to 5400 low-grade ki stones.


    Even Golden Core cultivators would be baffled by his wealth.


    Other than that, he also acquired a couple of storage rings. He could exchange them for artifacts or spirit materials in the future.


    Whats this pill? Fang Chen held a glistening golden pill in his hand.


    Abbess Clearlotus came over and examined the pill. Young master Fang, this is a Spirit Origin Pill. It raises a persons cultivation by the equivalent of three months of training. Its forged by one of the old ancestors of Infernozes imperial n. Its rare to find this pill in the market. I saw one when my master received one from attending a banquet in the capital.


    It raises a persons cultivation by three months of training? Fang Chen was awed.


    He found a total of three Spirit Origin Pills in the Spirit Heaven Sect. Consuming all of them would raise a persons cultivation by nine months of training!


    It just so happened that he might have to confront a Sea Dragon Sectste Foundation Establishment cultivator in the near future, and consuming these three pills might help him forge his eleventh immortal vein.


    The two of them spent two hours organizing everything in the Spirit Heaven Sect.


    Ki stones, spirit medicine, spirit herbs, pills Theypletely emptied the Spirit Heaven Sects coffers, leaving not even a single strand of hair behind.


    Abbess Clearlotus, Im going to consume these three Spirit Origin Pills. Ill need you to guard me for the time being. Hide right away if anything happens, Fang Chen instructed.


    Abbess Clearlotus nodded, though she was confused to hear those words.


    <em>What could happen? The Spirit Heaven Sect Master wouldnt dare to return anytime soon.</em>


    Fang Chen found a quiet chamber and swallowed all three Spirit Origin Pills together. Then, he took out his talisman spirit materials and began drawing pinnacle Purple Lightning Talismans.


    In Spirit Heaven Citys City Lord Manor


    Please wait here for a moment. Our city lord is with an esteemed guest. Ill announce your arrival to him. The City Lord Manors butler respectfully ushered the first elder and the others into the guest room.


    Spirit Heaven Citys name originated from the Spirit Heaven Sect. Not even the City Lord Manors butler dared to pull his weight against the Spirit Heaven Sects cultivators.


    However, the butler was curious why three of the Spirit Heaven Sects old ancestors suddenly descended from the mountain with all their disciples. <em>Could they have heard about the City Lord Manors esteemed guest and wish to pay respect to him too?</em>

 Chapter 257: The First Elder’s Ace

    Chapter 257: The First Elder¡¯s Ace


    Esteemed guest? The Spirit Heaven Sects first elder smiled at the butler. Is it someone from the capital?


    Someone whom the City Lord Manor deemed an esteemed guest, such that the city lord himself had to personally wee them, had to be an important figure from the capital.


    Such a person was likely to be a mid Foundation Establishment cultivator!


    This sparked some thoughts in his mind.


    This Im afraid its not my position to divulge any details. Please allow me to first announce your presence to the city lord, the butler replied before taking his leave.


    Hm? The first elder was startled. He looked at the second elder and the third elder with a frown. They wouldnt have been so discreet even if the guest is a Foundation Establishment powerhouse from the capital. Could it be that person from the Qing Province Sword Sect?


    That sword cultivator said he killed Yao Dan. That person from the Qing Province Sword Sect would step forward if he learns about it, the second elder replied.


    The Qing Province Sword Sect Master is at mid Foundation Establishment. If hes currently in Spirit Heaven City, we might just be able to get our base back, the first elder murmured.


    First Senior, Second Senior, cant we let this slip? the third elder asked bitterly. That fellow is a sword cultivator. Are you that tired of living?


    I understand your concerns, but Third Junior, can you ept such an oue? the first elder said with cold eyes. We left all our artifacts, ki stones, spirit medicine, and all spirit materials on the mountain. Even the Spirit Origin Pills we received from the sect master are there. We were nning on consuming it together after acquiring Foundation Establishment Pills, so as to boost our chances of reaching Foundation Establishment. Are you fine with losing that too?


    This The third elder looked conflicted.


    They had kept the Spirit Origin Pill for so long because they had already reached twelfth stage Ki Refinement, so there was no benefit to them eating it. However, having a Spirit Origin Pill to fall back on during their breakthrough to Foundation Establishment would boost their chances of sess.


    Foundation Establishment is far away for us. We all know this. Its tough to acquire the spirit materials required for forging a Foundation Establishment Pill, but even if we manage to gather them, the sess rate of forging the pill is terrifyingly low. We might not even get a single pill in ten batches The third elder sighed.


    Our sect master was fortunate to have found apleted Foundation Establishment Pill in a secret realm in a grade-5 state, but such fortuitous encounters are hard toe by. Rather than to fuss about the distant future, we might as well focus on reuniting with our sect master.


    As long as we find her, we can find another good location for our Spirit Heaven Sect. Theres no need to make an enemy out of that sword cultivator. Those bunch of people are madmen.


    The first elder and the second elders grasp of swordsmanship wasnt as deep as the third elders, so they still harbored hopes of killing the sword cultivator and returning to their home.


    Is that so The first elders eyes suddenly turned red. Id like to see if that sword cultivator is as strong as you put him out to be.


    He suddenly took out a talisman and incinerated it.


    Amunication talisman? The second elder and the third elder were stunned. First Senior, did you just send a message to our sect master?


    If the sword cultivator wasnt lying, and our sect master is on the run, it would be pointless to contact her. The person whom I just reached out to wouldnt fear a sword cultivator! the first elder sneered.


    The second elder and the third elder were startled. They didnt expect their first senior to still have an ace up his sleeves.


    Shortly after, the butler returned and addressed the three of them with a smile, The city lord invites you over.


    The three of them exchanged looks before rising from their seats. We have troubled you.


    The butler led the three of them to the banquet.


    Curiosity flickered across their eyes when they saw the skinny old man seated opposite to the Spirit Heaven City Lord. They had never seen that old man, so they didnt know his identity either.


    Paying respect to the city lord. The three of them sped their fist


    The Spirit Heaven City Lord nonchntly nodded. You three spend most of your days in the mountains. What brings all of you here all of a sudden?


    The first eldersplexion turned awful. It took seconds before he finally replied, Someone has taken over the Spirit Heaven Sect.


    <em>Taken over?</em>


    The Spirit Heaven City Lord was baffled. Wheres your sect master?


    Our sect master went to Moon Monastery to settle some issues, but we have received news that she has sustained severe injuries and is on the run, the first elder replied.


    The Spirit Heaven City Lords eyes narrowed. Tell me more in detail.


    The Flood Dragon Ind Master eyed the three of them before drinking on his own. He wasnt interested in their affairs.


    The first elder slowly recounted the incident. As for what happened to the Spirit Heaven Sect Master, he simply ryed what he had heard from Fang Chen.


    When he mentioned that the intruder was a young sword cultivator, the Flood Dragon Ind Masters gaze changed.


    Sword cultivator?! Why did those lunatics suddenly appear here?! What was your sect master thinking to provoke those madmen! the Spirit Heaven City Lord eximed in anger.


    As a Foundation Establishment cultivator who had once met a sword cultivator, he had a deep understanding of what those two words signified.


    I fear that our sect master doesnt know his background. Now that the Spirit Heaven Sect has been taken over, itll probably be auctioned off in a few days time, the first elder bitterly replied.


    I cant help you. The Spirit Heaven City Lord shook his head. It isnt just me. None of Infernozes hundred city lords will want to make an enemy out of a sword cultivator. I advise you to find another base and start anew.


    Despite having expected as much, the three elders were still disappointed.


    You mentioned that the sword cultivator killed the Qing Province Sword Sects Yao Dan? the Spirit Heaven City Lord asked.


    Thats what the sword cultivator said, but we havent verified it. The first elder nodded.


    I see. The Spirit Heaven Sword Sect nodded. Let me give you a suggestion. Gather some ki stones and buy your sect location back when he sells it off.


    With that, he casually found an excuse to have his butler send them off.


    The three elders could tell that the city lord was reluctant to house them, so they left the City Lord Manor together with their disciples.


    That old fool was intimidated by the words sword cultivator too, the first elder sneered in disdain as he walked out of the City Lord Manor.


    Its only to be expected, the third elder murmured.


    Arent they cultivators from the Spirit Heaven Sect?


    A man and a woman entering the City Lord Manor saw the first elder and the others walking out, and surprise flickered across their eyes.


    First Miss, young master Lin, its good that you have returned. The City Lord is already hosting the esteemed guest. Please follow me. The butlers eyes lit up upon seeing the two of them.


    The woman had a ravishing face and a transcendental disposition that wouldnt pale inparison to the Great Xias Jade Fairy. She turned to the butler and asked, What are the Spirit Heaven Sects cultivators doing here?


    The butler shook his head. Im afraid Im not sure.


    Zi Han, lets meet the esteemed guest first. The guest be of high standing for the City Lord to urgently call you back, the young man beside her advised.

 Chapter 258: An Old Cow Lusting Over Fresh Grass

    Chapter 258: An Old Cow Lusting Over Fresh Grass


    Father.


    City Lord.


    Zi Han and the young man were brought before the Spirit Heaven City Lord, and the two of them bowed to him before ncing at the Flooding Dragon Ind Master.


    Come, let me introduce you to the Flood Dragon Ind Master. He is ate Foundation Establishment cultivator. The Spirit Heaven Sect Master gestured to Zi Han.


    <em>Late Foundation Establishment?</em>


    Zi Han and the young man were taken aback. They quickly bowed to the Flood Dragon Ind Master.


    Is this your daughter? She doesnt look like you. The Flooding Dragon Ind Master assessed Zi Han before directing a smile at the Spirit Heaven City Lord.


    Any other cultivator who dared to tease the Spirit Heaven City Lord would have been dragged out and beaten up, but the Spirit Heaven City Lord chuckled and replied, Indeed. She resembles my deceased wife. My wife was a beauty in her sect, and many of my seniors tried to woo her.


    Zi Hans face reddened.


    This young man is? The Flooding Dragon Ind Master looked at the young man.


    The young man nervously replied, I am Ye Wenxiu, an offspring of the Spirit Heaven Citys Ye n.


    The Ye n? The Flooding Dragon Ind Master frowned.


    The Spirit Heaven City Lord quickly exined with augh, They are one of our Spirit Heaven Citys Three Great Cultivator ns. The Ye ns old ancestor is a twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator.


    Ah The Flooding Dragon Ind Master coldly nodded.


    A twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator wasnt even worthy of lifting his shoes. He lost interest in the young man upon learning that he was from such a lowly background.


    The young man sensed the Flooding Dragon Ind Masters intention, which made his face redden in embarrassment. His n was indeed not worth a mention before ate Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Your daughter has already reached ninth stage Ki Refinement. Not bad. You must have fed her plenty of spirit medicine over the years. The Flooding Dragon Ind Master eyed Zi Han with a peculiar gleam in his eyes.


    The Spirit Heaven City Lord replied with a gleeful smile, Zi Hans talent is above mine, though she has indeed eaten her fair share of pills and spirit herbs over the years.


    He paused for a moment before adding, Would the Flooding Dragon Ind Master be interested in offering my daughter some pointers? With your guidance, Zi Han should be able to forge her tenth immortal vein very soon.


    Youre hoping Id take her under my wing and cultivate in the Sea Dragon Sect? the Flooding Dragon Ind Master impassively asked. If you help with my request, I wont owe you a favor either.


    <em>The Sea Dragon Sect?!</em>


    Zi Han and Ye Wenxiu were astonished. It was only now that it dawned on them that thiste Foundation Establishment cultivator was from the Sea Dragon Sect! That exined why they had never heard about the other party.


    There werent manyte Foundation Establishment cultivators in Infernoze, after all.


    I shant beat around the bush then. Would you be willing to take my daughter as your disciple? the Spirit Heaven City Lord asked expectantly.


    I have enough disciples, the Flooding Dragon Ind Master slowly said.


    The Spirit Heaven City Lord was disappointed to hear that.


    However, the Flooding Dragon Ind Master wasnt done speaking yet. I dont need your daughter as my disciple, but my wife died of old age a few years back, and I was nning on taking a new one. I think your daughter is suitable. Shes decently talented, and I dont think its a loss for her to be my cultivationpanion.


    The Spirit Heaven City Lord looked as if he had been struck by lightning.


    <em>The Flooding Dragon Ind Master is interested in my daughter?</em>


    Zi Han was taken aback. Fear crept into her eyes. She quickly lowered her head to conceal her emotions.


    Ye Wenxiu stared at the Flooding Dragon Ind Master in a daze, his mind turned nk.


    Whats wrong? You arent willing? the Flooding Dragon Ind Master asked. Ill settle her Foundation Establishment Pill if she follows me.


    The Spirit Heaven City Lord had been extremely reluctant to that notion when he heard the words Foundation Establishment Pill, and his heart began to waver.


    I suggest you think it through. Speaking of which, I am curious about the sword cultivator upying the Spirit Heaven Sect. Send someone up there to verify if he really is a sword cultivator, the Flood Dragon Ind Master said before leaving with his hands behind his back.


    The Spirit Heaven City Lord looked at his departing silhouette with contemtive eyes.


    Father, Wenxiu and I are mutually in love Zi Han said with a suppressed voice.


    I know the two of you have been close from a young age, but this matter is of great importance. The Flooding Dragon Ind Master is ate Foundation Establishment cultivator. Theres hardly anyone in Infernoze who can match him, the Spirit Heaven City Lord replied grimly.


    I fear that turning him down might bring a cmity upon us, but if we ept his offer, you will have a strong backing to fall back on. A Foundation Establishment Pill is indeed worth a hefty sum


    The Spirit Heaven City Lord turned to Ye Wenxiu and said, Wenxiu, you should think about whats best for Zi Han if you really like her. Your Ye n doesnt have the means to acquire a Foundation Establishment Pill. I am also not confident that I can acquire it for her. However, the Flood Dragon Ind Master has the means to do so.


    City Lord Ye Wenxius face turned pale. His eyes reflected his indignation and anger.


    Enough. Thats all for now. You may leave now, the Spirit Heaven City Lord said.


    Ye Wenxiu had to leave the City Lord Manor no matter how reluctant he was.


    Zi Hans face remained pale.


    The Spirit Heaven City Lord patted her shoulder and said, As cultivators, we mustnt let our feelings interfere with our pursuit for immortality. You have a bright future ahead of you right now. I hope you can understand why I am doing this.


    Zi Hans mind was in disarray.


    The Spirit Heaven City Lord recalled the Flooding Dragon Ind Masters earlier instruction, so he called a couple of subordinates over. All of them were around tenth stage Ki Refinement.


    Make a trip to the Spirit Heaven Sect. Be courteous. I want you to figure out whether theres a sword cultivator there or not, the Spirit Heaven City Lord ordered.


    City Lord, what happened to the Spirit Heaven Sect? one of his subordinates asked in bewilderment.


    The Spirit Heaven Sect offended someone who seems to be a sword cultivator and got taken over. Follow the standard procedure and inquire about his background, the Spirit Heaven City Lord ordered.


    The subordinates were bewildered. <em>A sword cultivator? And the Spirit Heaven Sect was taken over just like that?</em>


    Abbess Clearlotus moved a chair in front of the chamber and sat down. She rested her chin on her arms and stared into space.


    A few figures suddenly appeared before her. Startled, she shot to her feet and stared at them.


    These people were surprised to see Abbess Clearlotus. One of them asked. May I ask if you are the sword cultivator who took over the Spirit Heaven Sect?


    It isnt me. Abbess Clearlotus shook her head. Her eyes remained vignt. What are you doing here?


    Ah, were from the City Lord Manor. We heard that someone has taken over the Spirit Heaven Sect, so we came here to inquire about the situation. May I know where the sword cultivator is? that person asked.


    Our young master is in seclusion training. You should return after hees out, Abbess Clearlotus replied.


    <em>Seclusion training? </em>The group of them nced at the chamber behind Abbess Clearlotus.


    One of the cultivators revealed a look of dilemma. We came under the City Lords orders. Please dont put us in a spot


    Tell your City Lord Ill be out in a few days time. Get him toe here in person if he has anything he wishes to ask, Fang Chens voice echoed from the chamber.


    The cultivators exchanged looks and nodded. Then, they took their leave and descended the mountain.


    In the chamber, Fang Chen was focused on controlling his talisman brush, but there was a hint of disdain in his eyes.


    The city lord and the Flooding Dragon Ind Master should have learned by now that he had upied the Spirit Heaven Sect, but they still sent their cultivators over instead of personally making a trip here.


    This showed that they were intimidated by him despite being Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    But this worked in his favor too, since it bought time for him.


    Little sword was done digesting the artifacts, raising its strength to another level. Fang Chen could sense his Sword Body bing even more resilient.


    However, he still wanted to forge his eleventh immortal vein before crossing blows with thete Foundation Establishment cultivator.

 Chapter 259: Eleventh Stage Ki Refinement

    Chapter 259: Eleventh Stage Ki Refinement


    Days passed in a sh.


    On this day, the spirit ki on the Spirit Heaven Mountain furiously billowed as it converged toward the mountain peak, into the chamber where Fang Chen dwelled.


    Abbess Clearlotus was surprised. She sensed the spirit ki pulsations, and she was familiar with this phenomenon.


    Young master Fang is forging his immortal vein Abbess Clearlotus murmured.


    She had no idea how many immortal veins Fang Chen had forged, but this verified that he was still a Ki Refinement cultivator. <em>Sword cultivators are formidable, for a Ki Refinement cultivator to be able to kill a Foundation Establishment cultivator!</em>


    Many people in Spirit Heaven City raised their heads to look at the Spirit Heaven Mountain. Shock could be seen reflected in their eyes.


    The cultivator who took over the Spirit Heaven Sect made a breakthrough?


    Thismotion Hes only at Ki Refinement


    The cultivators in the city had already heard about the Spirit Heaven Sect being taken over, and the billowing spirit ki in the Spirit Heaven Mountain sparked new discussions among them.


    In a courtyard owned by the Spirit Heaven Sect, the first elder and the others stood up and looked at the Spirit Heaven Mountain.


    That fellow made a breakthrough, the second elder said with a frown.


    It doesnt change the fact hes only at Ki Refinement, the first elder sneered. The reinforcement I called will be arriving soon. Lets see if he can maintain that arrogant attitude!


    First Senior The third elder frowned. Does your reinforcement really not fear the sword cultivators legacy?


    Of course not. The first elder smirked. They have never feared anyone in this area. Even the Sea Dragon Sect means nothing to them!


    Those words greatly lifted the morale of the Spirit Heaven Sects cultivators.


    The second elder and the third elder exchanged looks. They were shocked yet confused.


    <em>Someone who doesnt even fear the Sea Dragon Sect? When did their senior be acquainted with someone like that?!</em>


    Dont probe into it. Id have told you if I could, but the timing isnt right, the first elder said. I wouldnt have resorted to this if not for our sect being taken over. Just remember this, once we get our sect back, we wont have to lie low anymore as we did in the past!


    The crowd was bewildered.


    <em>Could it be that the first elder is not only confident of getting our sect back, but hes able to bring our Spirit Heaven Sect to a higher level on top of that?!</em>


    Could it be possible that our First Senior is acquainted with a grade-5 states cultivator? Even Infernozes imperial n would have to think twice before going against them The second elder and the third elder wondered.


    The two Foundation Establishment cultivators in the City Lord Manor sensed Fang Chens breakthrough too.


    Flooding Dragon Ind Master, I have sent my men to look into it a few days ago, and they said that the other party is in seclusion training. It looks like it wasnt a lie. The Spirit Heaven Sect Master chuckled. I wonder what his background is. To cultivate so openly, isnt he afraid of the Qing Province Sword Secting after him?


    If he is a sword cultivator, those two words would suffice as his backing, the Flooding Dragon Ind Master coolly replied.


    Sword cultivator legacies are rare. I doubt the Spirit Heaven Sects cultivators have seen one. They might have been deceived, the Spirit Heaven City Lord said.


    City Lord, the Spirit Heaven Mountain sent someone here. They say that they are nning to auction off the Spirit Heaven Sects location seven days from now, and they hope that we can help them spread the news. The person who came was a little nun. She seems to be from the Moon Monastery, the butler rushed in and said.


    They want my help? The Spirit Heaven City Lord narrowed his eyes.


    It wouldnt be a bad idea to do him a favor if hes a sword cultivator, the Flooding Dragon Ind Master said with a smile.


    The Spirit Heaven City Lord nodded. Indeed.


    He ordered his subordinates to spread the news before turning back to the Flooding Dragon Ind Master. Spirit Heaven City will be crowded in a few days time.


    Id want nothing less than that. The Flooding Dragon Ind Master smiled. There was a bizarre glint in his eyes.


    The spirit ki pulsations on the Spirit Heaven Mountain continued for hours before slowly calming down.


    By the time the chamber opened, Abbess Clearlotus couldnt help but notice that Fang Chen was very different from before. She couldnt put her finger on what exactly it was, but it felt like he had undergone a metamorphosis.


    Young master Fang, I have requested the City Lord Manor to spread the news as per your instructions, Abbess Clearlotus said.


    Thank you. Fang Chen nodded with a smile.


    Young master Fang have you reached Foundation Establishment? Abbess Clearlotus couldnt resist the urge to drop the question.


    <em>Foundation Establishment? </em>Fang Chen chuckled. It isnt that easy to reach Foundation Establishment. I have merely forged eleven immortal veins thus far. Theres still some way to go before I can reach Foundation Establishment.


    However, he understood why Abbess Clearlotus would ask that.


    After forging his eleventh immortal vein, his spirit ki capacity was now greater than any of the twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivators he had met. Little sword had also grown much stronger after consuming a lot of artifacts, thus strengthening his Sword Body.


    Thepounded effect of these two greatly boosted Fang Chens fighting prowess. That was probably what prompted Abbess Clearlotus question.


    Youre only at eleventh stage Ki Refinement? Abbess Clearlotus gasped.


    <em>That would mean young master Fang was only at tenth stage Ki Refinement when he killed a Foundation Establishment cultivator!</em>


    What did those at the City Lord Manor say? Did they ept my request? Fang Chen asked.


    They epted your request. Abbess Clearlotus nodded.


    Hm Ill clean up the matters here. You should return to the Moon Monastery first, Fang Chen said after some thought.


    Abbess Clearlotus was taken aback. Young master Fang, do you know where the Flying Eagle Sect is?


    I dont know, but there might be a fight here in a few days time. Youll be implicated if you stay here, Fang Chen replied.


    Ill descend from the mountain in advance when the timees, Abbess Clearlotus replied. Ill return to the mountain to meet you when everything calms down.


    That works too. Fang Chen nodded.


    In the following days, news about the auctioning of the Spirit Heaven Sects location spread to all of the Qing Provinces cities. Many cultivators rushed over upon hearing the news.


    Some of the cultivators in Spirit Heaven City were moved as well. Their Three Great Cultivator ns even gathered together to discuss the matter.


    A few days before the auction, there was suddenly amotion in the Spirit Heaven City.


    A hundred swordsmen dressed in light blue robes entered the city. Their leader, who wore a purple robe, had a brawny figure reminiscent of a bear, and his imposing presence seemed to choke the air out of those around him.


    Thats the Qing Province Sword Sect Master, the Qing Province Number One Swordsman Long Tianxiang?!


    It does look like him Whats he doing in Spirit Heaven City? He even brought a hundred cultivators with him!


    Is he after the Spirit Heaven Sects location too?


    Surely not The Spirit Heaven Sect only has a spirit field and a spirit spring. That shouldnt be enough to spur the Qing Province Number One Swordsman into movement.


    The cultivators gossiped among themselves. Some of the local cultivators also rushed to the streets upon hearing the news.


    Elder Long!


    The patriarchs of Spirit Heaven Citys Three Great Cultivator ns rushed forward to greet him.

 Chapter 260: Movements In the Shadows

    Chapter 260: Movements In the Shadows


    Spirit Heaven City¡¯s Three Great Cultivator ns were the Ye n, the Xu n, and the Zhou n. Their patriarchs were twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivators, and they were considered top-notch experts second only to the Spirit Heaven City Lord in this city.


    Yet, the three patriarchs rushed out to wee the Qing Province Sword Sect Master. This hinted at his high standing in the Qing Province.


    ¡°The rumors that Spirit Heaven City¡¯s Three Great Cultivator ns are on good terms with the Qing Province Sword Sect must have been true.¡±


    ¡°It looks like those three ns were nurtured by the Qing Province Sword Sect.¡±


    The crowd discussed telepathically.


    Long Tianxing eyed the three patriarchs and slowly nodded. ¡°I¡¯ve troubled you to make the trip down here.¡±


    ¡°Not at all, not at all,¡± the Ye n¡¯s patriarch replied fawningly. ¡°Elder Long, do you have any amodations here? If not, why don¡¯t youe to our Ye n¡­¡±


    Before he could finish his words, the Xu n¡¯s and the Zhou n¡¯s patriarchs interjected too to invite Long Tianxing to stay in their respective manors.


    Watching the Ye n¡¯s patriarch fawn on Long Tianxing, Ye Wenxiu couldn¡¯t help but slowly clench his fists. If I was as strong as Long Tianxing, that Flooding Dragon Ind Master wouldn¡¯t dare to steal the woman I love!


    It was just a pity that even reaching Foundation Establishment was distant for him, let alone mid Foundation Establishment.


    Long Tianxing eyed the three of them before turning his attention to the Ye n¡¯s patriarch. ¡°Make some arrangements. We¡¯ll be participating in the auctioning of the Spirit Heaven n¡¯s location.¡±


    The crowd was surprised. They hadn¡¯t expected that Long Tianxing was really here to participate in the auction.


    With Long Tianxing¡¯s arrival, the many parties who hade to the Spirit Heaven City began making their moves. Those who werepeting for the Spirit Heaven Sect¡¯s location started reaching out to others to work together.


    Many of them were unaffiliated cultivators who didn¡¯t have a stable ce to cultivate in.


    In a courtyard¡­


    ¡°First Senior, even the Qing Province Sword Sect Master Long Tianxing is here. Can we really get back our sect location?¡± the third elder asked with a sigh.


    The second elder nced at him andughed. ¡°Third Junior, you can¡¯t be thinking that Long Tianxing is really here for our Spirit Heaven Sect¡¯s location. We are worth nothingpared to their Qing Province Sword Sect!¡±


    ¡°Indeed. The Qing Province Number One Swordsman must be here to avenge Yao Dan, which makes him an ally rather than an enemy,¡± the first elder said.


    All of a sudden, he looked outside.


    Tak tak tak.


    There were knocks on the door.


    The Spirit Heaven Sect¡¯s cultivators turned to the first elder, and only upon thetter¡¯s nod did someone step forward to open the door.


    Outside the courtyard stood a nonchnt middle-aged man. He wore a gray robe, and he had a tall stature. Just his gaze on the Spirit Heaven Sect¡¯s cultivator opening the door made thetter short on breath.


    ¡°Brother Xia, you¡¯re finally here!¡± The first elder chuckled as he made his way over.


    The second elder and the third elder exchanged looks before walking over too.


    ¡°Brother Lu, have you finally thought things through?¡± Xia Xuanji asked with a smile.


    If Fang Chen was here, he would have recognized the person to be the previous Great Xia¡¯s emperor. His appearance had changed a fair bit; his previous gloomy aura had been reced with a domineering air.


    ¡°I have thought things through. Brother Xia, as long as you help our Spirit Heaven Sect through this crisis, we¡¯ll be under yourmand from this day onward,¡± the first elder said.


    The second elder and the third elder were shocked. Under yourmand? What¡¯s going on?


    The hot-headed third elder blurted out,¡± First Senior, what do you mean by that? Why would we be under hismand?¡±


    ¡°I see you haven¡¯t talked things out yet,¡± Xia Xuanji sneered before turning around to leave.


    The first elder rushed forward to stop him before lecturing the third elder, saying, ¡°Third Junior, Brother Xia¡¯s sect is incredibly powerful. They can eradicate even the Sea Dragon Sect in the blink of an eye. It¡¯ll only benefit our Spirit Heaven Sect toe under them! Would you rather watch as our Spirit Heaven Sect¡¯s base is auctioned off, and we are reduced toughingstocks in Infernoze?!¡±


    ¡°Third Junior, let¡¯s leave this to our First Senior,¡± the second elder said.


    The third elder eyed Xia Xuanji with skeptical eyes and asked, ¡°What¡¯s your sect?¡±


    ¡°You aren¡¯t qualified to know,¡± Xia Xuanji coldly replied.


    Before the third elder could say more, Xia Xuanji released a terrifying aura that instantaneously enveloped the third elder, causing thetter to sweat profusely. He felt like he might be killed on the spot if he dared utter another word.


    The first elder quickly mediated between them before respectfully ushering Xia Xuanji into their courtyard.


    ¡°Juniors, Brother Xia is a cultivator prodigy. He was only at eighth stage Ki Refinement when I first met him, but he has already advanced to Foundation Establishment since!¡± the first elder said.


    Foundation Establishment?


    That evoked the respect of the Spirit Heaven Sect¡¯s cultivators, and they exhaled in relief. They no longer felt as uneasy now that they had a Foundation Establishment cultivator to back them up.


    ¡°Brother Xia, our enemy is a sword cultivator¡­ but we aren¡¯t sure if he really is a sword cultivator. All we know is that his flying sword is terrifyingly powerful, and his physical body is nigh indestructible. He can catch my Third Junior¡¯s flying sword and break it with his bare hands,¡± the first elder said.


    ¡°He¡¯s either a physical enhancement cultivator or a sword cultivator.¡± Xia Xuanji narrowed his eyes. ¡°What¡¯s his cultivation?¡±


    ¡°He hasn¡¯t reached Foundation Establishment yet,¡± the first elder said. ¡°We can¡¯t tell what stage of Ki Refinement he¡¯s in. He appears to have an artifact that conceals his aura.¡±


    ¡°Sword cultivators boast the greatest offensive prowess of all cultivators. He might be at Ki Refinement, but even Foundation Establishment cultivators would have to tread carefully around him. What do you want me to do? Should I kill him now?¡± Xia Xuanji chuckled.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid of the sword cultivators behind him getting even with you?¡± the third elder asked.


    Xia Xuanji eyed the third elder before replying deeply, ¡°Those behind me don¡¯t fear ordinary sword cultivators.¡±


    The third elder began to believe in Xia Xuanji upon seeing his confidence.


    ¡°I want to make a move tomorrow, when our base is being auctioned off. The other cultivators will be present, so it¡¯d be the perfect opportunity to regain our honor. I want to show the Spirit Heaven City Lord and the Qing Province Sword Sect Master that our Spirit Heaven Sect is not to be made light of!¡± the first elder said.


    Xia Xuanji nodded. ¡°As you wish.¡±


    ¡°Thank you!¡± The first elder was excited.


    On Spirit Heaven Mountain, Fang Chen sat with his eyes closed, his soul wandering in Spirit Heaven City.


    He saw the Qing Province Sword Sect¡¯s Long Tianxing being escorted into the Ye n.


    He took a trip to the City Lord Manor and assessed the Flood Dragon Ind Master up close.


    Thetter murmured under his breath, ¡°Tomorrow is a good opportunity to intimidate Infernoze¡¯s cultivators. We¡¯ll show them the fate that befalls those who dare offend our Sea Dragon n.¡±


    Fang Chen chuckled in response before leaving the City Lord Manor.


    Next, he made his way to the Spirit Heaven Sect¡¯s courtyard in the city, curious to see what other ns these people had. There, he saw Xia Xuanji.

 Chapter 261: I Am Fang Xiaotu

    Chapter 261: I Am Fang Xiaotu


    It had been months since hest met Xia Xuanji.


    Xia Xuanjis appearance and demeanor had greatly changed from before, but Fang Chen still recognized him in a single nce. He was chatting with the Spirit Heaven Sects first elder, with the second elder and the third elder listening in as well.


    The other Spirit Heaven Sects cultivators stood outside.


    Hes emanating the aura of a Foundation Establishment cultivator Could it be that the danger I sensed from the imperial pce back then was from him and not the Spirit Marrow?


    Fang Chen stared intently at Xia Xuanji. He was astonished to learn that the ex-Great Xia emperor was actually a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    If he was not mistaken, Xia Xuanji was only 44 years old.


    Cultivation was tough, especially if one didnt have a proper legacy and ample cultivation resources. It was already a formidable feat for a cultivator to reach Foundation Establishment before their first century.


    Take the three elders of the Spirit Heaven Sect for example, none of them had reached Foundation Establishment even though they werent young anymore. The key hurdle they faced was theck of a Foundation Establishment Pill.


    The chances were likely that Xia Xuanji had started cultivating from a young age. His backing must be rather formidable, having a proper legacy and having the means to provide him with a Foundation Establishment Pill.


    The Blood Spirit Cult Xia Xuanji wasnt bribed by the Blood Spirit Cult; he has been their disciple all along. Fang Chens eyes turned cold.


    Despite being Great Xias emperor, Xia Xuanji used the blood of his people to pave his way to immortality. The path he walked was dripping with blood.


    The Spirit Heaven Sect must be rted to the Blood Spirit Cult too, or else Xia Xuanji wouldnt have appeared here.


    He visited the Cloudless Monastery, and now hes with the Spirit Heaven Sect. Is he looking for partners for the Blood Spirit Cult to work with, so that they can do something simr to what they did in Great Xia? Fang Chen murmured.


    There must have been many people like Xia Xuanji in the Blood Spirit Cult. By using other powers to do their dirty work, the Blood Spirit Cult could remain elusive.


    Brother Xia, Ill leave tomorrow to you, the first elder said.


    Rest assured. Xia Xuanji nodded.


    Fang Chen took one more look at Xia Xuanji before searching the surrounding area, starting from the courtyard. His aunt, Fang Cangyue, might be here if Xia Xuanji was here.


    Hourster, he returned his soul to his body and slowly opened his eyes. He looked exhausted.


    Fang Cangyue wasnt in Spirit Heaven City.


    It isnt easy for me to find Xia Xuanji. Who knows if Ill ever find him again if I rm him and he escapes?


    With such a thought in mind, Fang Chen left the chamber, grabbed a few metal weapons, melted them with his fireball, and forged a mask.


    The following morning, cultivators began swarming the Spirit Heaven Mountain.


    Some were from the City Lord Manor. Some were from Spirit Heaven Citys Three Great Cultivator ns. Some were from the Spirit Heaven Sect.


    The presence of these powerhouses shook the unaffiliated cultivators confidence that they could win the auction.


    Ye Wenxiu noticed Zi Han walking behind the Flood Dragon Ind Master, and that made him feel horrible. The two of them asionally met gazes, but Zi Han would turn away in a panic, not daring to look him in the eye.


    Zi Han must be under coercion! Ye Wenxius heart was in pain. He clenched his fists so tightly that his fingernails were digging into his flesh, but his mind was too much in turmoil to feel it.


    Just the thought of the woman he had grown up with and loved bing an old things cultivatorpanion made him feel like someone was plunging a dagger into his heart over and over again, cutting him up inside.


    Of the crowd heading up the mountain, the Qing Province Sword Sects cultivators were the most conspicuous ones of all. They stood out even more than the City Lord Manors procession.


    Even the Three Great Cultivator ns were trailing behind Long Tianxing, making it no secret who they served.


    Long Tianxing suddenly slowed his footsteps. Secondster, the City Lord Manors procession caught up with them.


    Its been a while, Sect Master Long, the Spirit Heaven City Lord said with a smile.


    Spirit Heaven City Lord, are you aware about the grudge between that person up there and our Qing Province Sword Sect? Long Tianxing impassively asked.


    He nced at the Flood Dragon Ind Master and frowned. He could tell that thetter was a Foundation Establishment cultivator, but he couldnt discern his background.


    I have heard. The Spirit Heaven City Lord nodded.


    And you still helped to transmit his message? Long Tianxings eyes turned cold.


    Hes a sword cultivator, and Im not the one who has a grudge with him. I dont n on getting involved in your business with him, the Spirit Heaven City Lord calmly replied.


    That would be for the best. The chill in Long Tianxings eyes faded a little.


    His final reservations faded with the Spirit Heaven City Lord expressing that he wouldnt get involved in this matter.


    The Spirit Heaven Sects cultivators were trailing behind these two groups. Noticing the interaction between Long Tianxing and the Spirit Heaven City Lord, the first elder couldnt help but nce at Xia Xuanji.


    Itll be best if someone resolves your problem. Otherwise, Ill make a move, Xia Xuanji reassured the first elder.


    The first elder clenched his teeth and said with a suppressed voice, Having others deal with the sword cultivator wont restore our Spirit Heaven Sects honor.


    Ill find a suitable opportunity to back your Spirit Heaven Sect. Xia Xuanji nodded.


    The first elder breathed a sigh of relief.


    The crowd soon arrived at the Spirit Heaven Sect. A figure was standing at the entrance, but a mask concealed his appearance.


    He must be afraid. The Spirit Heaven Sects cultivators gloated.


    <em>He was so arrogant back then, only to put on a mask now. That shows that hes frightened!</em>


    You are the sword cultivator who took over the Spirit Heaven Sect? How should I address you? the Spirit Heaven City Lord asked aloud.


    The crowd took this chance to assess Fang Chen, especially the patriarchs of Spirit Heaven Citys Three Great Cultivator ns. They were shocked when they learned from Long Tianxing that this man had killed the Qing Province Sword Sects First Elder Yao Dan.


    <em>A Foundation Establishment cultivator died just like that? Doesnt that mean that twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivators like us are no different from ants to him?</em>


    Brother Xia, thats the guy. I think hes wearing a mask because there are too many eyes here, the first elder said.


    Xia Xuanji eyed Fang Chen before nonchntly nodding. It doesnt matter whether hes masked or not. It wont change the oue.


    Those words boosted the first elders confidence.


    The rumors are true. He is a sword cultivator!


    No wonder hes able to take over the Spirit Heaven Sect! But for the Spirit Heaven Sect Master to not appear despite the uproar, she must be either dead or severely injured


    I heard the Spirit Heaven Sect has a 300 meters square huge spirit field and a small spirit spring. That should be worth around 2000 low-grade ki stones. I wonder if well be able to win the auction.


    Such discussions could be heard from the crowd.


    Fang Chen looked at the Spirit Heaven City Lord and said, I am Fang Xiaotu. Pleased to meet you, Spirit Heaven City Lord.

 Chapter 262: One Will Suffice

    Chapter 262: One Will Suffice


    Fang Xiaotu The Spirit Heaven City Lord spent a moment in thought before nodding. He took another look at Fang Chen before continuing with a smile, We have hundreds of fellow daoists with us here today, each harboring the hope of purchasing the Spirit Heaven Sects location from you. May I know how you wish to proceed with the auction?


    Meanwhile, the Flood Dragon Ind Master assessed Fang Chen with mocking eyes.


    He didnt think Fang Chen knew his background, but he was already certain of Fang Chens identity, even though Fang Chen had put on a mask.


    Sword cultivators were so rare that it was unthinkable for two of them to appear in Infernoze in the same time frame. Without a doubt, this was the person he was looking for!


    This was the guy who killed their young sect master and the Blue Mountain Ind Master.


    However, the Flood Dragon Ind Master was in no rush to make a move, knowing that the Qing Province Sword Sects Long Tianxing would make a move. Since that was the case, he didnt mind using Long Tianxing as cannon fodder to see what Fang Chen was capable of.


    The starting bid is 1000 low-grade ki stones, and each increment must be no less than 100. Theres no cap to the price, Fang Chen exined. The Spirit Heaven Sect has a 300 meters squarerge spirit field and a spirit spring. That should be ample for around fifty cultivators.


    He made a dramatic pause before saying, If youre interested, you may begin bidding.


    Silence followed.


    The atmosphere was a little awkward, with most people eyeing the Qing Province First Swordsman Long Tianxing.


    Looks like you have all heard about our first elders death, Long Tianxing impassively said.


    No one responded.


    The underlying tone was clear. The sword cultivator must first deal with Long Tianxing to prove that he was qualified to sell the Spirit Heaven Sects location.


    Long Tianxing took his time to assess Fang Chen before he asked, Yao Danyou are the one who killed him, right?


    Are you here to avenge him? Fang Chen smiled.


    Oh? He doesnt look intimidated at all


    He sounds confident Things might get messy here.


    The crowd narrowed their eyes.


    The fact that the sword cultivator remained calm despite knowing that Long Tianxing was at mid Foundation Establishment suggested that he had the means to deal with thetter!


    Yao Dan is our Qing Province Sword Sects first elder. I wont let him die in vain, Long Tianxing coldly uttered.


    The Qing Province Sword Sects disciples red at Fang Chen.


    I heard youre a sword cultivator. Its said that sword cultivators are devoted to the pursuit of swordsmanship, and they boast the number one offensive prowess in the world of cultivation, which is why they are both arrogant and self-entitled. I wonder how much of the rumor is true, Long Tianxing said.


    Let me see what your sword is capable of. Ill give you a chance to make your move. If you can injure me in ten moves, I wont pursue your murder of Elder Yao. However


    A vicious glint shed across Long Tianxings eyes. If you cant do as much, it would prove that you arent a sword cultivator at all. If so, Ill kill you with my own hands!


    Suffocating pressure emanated from his mountain-like stature.


    The crowd understood that the sword cultivator would be dead meat if he didn''t have the means to wound Long Tianxing.


    Brother Long, why dont you leave this fellow to me? Xia Xuanji suddenly spoke up.


    Startled, the crowd traced the voice and found Xia Xuanji.


    Whos that?


    Hes standing with the Spirit Heaven Sect. Is he the helper they found?


    Its yet another Foundation Establishment cultivator


    The crowd gossiped.


    The Spirit Heaven City Lord took a few looks at Xia Xuanji, only for hisplexion to turn grim when he realized that he couldnt see through Xia Xuanjis cultivation.


    You are? Long Tianxing nodded.


    However, he quickly understood what was going on when he saw the Spirit Heaven Sects elders behind Xia Xuanji.


    My n name is Xia. I came here to seek justice for the Spirit Heaven Sect, Xia Xuanji said. Brother Long, Id be grateful if you could give me the chance to do so.


    The first elder and the others were overjoyed. They thought that Xia Xuanji wouldnt get a chance to show his hand today, and the Qing Province Sword Sect would steal the attention. Who could have thought that Xia Xuanji would choose to intervene at this moment?


    As long as Xia Xuanji revealed some of his means before this crowd, the Spirit Heaven Sect would not only restore its honor, but its reputation might even be further elevated.


    Oh? Long Tianxing narrowed his eyes. He took a few looks at Xia Xuanji before coldly replying, I have a grudge with him. He killed our sects first elder. Im afraid I cant pass this opportunity on to you.


    Sect Master Long, that person wounded our sect master, and we still dont know her whereabouts to date. It was your sects Elder Yao Dan whonded us in this plight! Our grudge with him doesnt pale inparison to yours, the first elder said with a cold voice.


    The crowd was astonished.


    <em>How does the Spirit Heaven Sects first elder have the confidence to be so rude to Long Tianxing? They arent on the same level! Is it because of the helper they brought in?</em>


    Long Tianxing came to the same conclusion too. He nced at the first elder but ignored him, choosing instead to focus his attention on Xia Xuanji. Brother Xia, are you intending to fight me first?


    I wouldnt go that far. Xia Xuanji smiled. Since Brother Long is determined to exact vengeance, Ill hand the opportunity over to you. However, Ill make things clear first. The Spirit Heaven Sects location wont be auctioned off. Itll be returned to the Spirit Heaven Sect.


    Many cultivators were livid to hear that. Some even grumbled under their breath.


    They had rushed here from afar, and that took time and effort. Yet, the auction was going to be called off?


    I can support you on that. Long Tianxing nodded.


    Its over. We have made a wasted trip!


    I wouldnt say that. This is a rare chance to see what a sword cultivator is capable of.


    Thats true.


    The crowd spoke among themselves.


    Long Tianxing turned to Fang Chen and asked, What do you think about my earlier offer?


    Young master Fang might be in trouble this time Abbess Clearlotus, who was hidden in the crowd, watched the scene with worried eyes.


    Ten moves? That s too much. One will suffice, Fang Chen replied.


    <em>Wounding a mid Foundation Establishment cultivator in one move?!</em> The crowd was astounded. This sounded utterly ridiculous to them.


    Sounds like words that woulde from a sword cultivator. The Spirit Heaven City Lord chuckled before turning to the Flood Dragon Ind Master.


    Disdain flickered across the eyes of the Flood Dragon Ind Master. Sword cultivators tend to be conceited.


    That fellow is provoking Long Tianxing! The Spirit Heaven Sects cultivators cheered in their hearts, knowing that Fang Chen would only suffer more as a result.


    If only I was as strong as him, Ye Wenxiu stared at Fang Chen in a daze as he bitterly murmured.

 Chapter 263: You Betrayed Me

    Chapter 263: You Betrayed Me


    Long Tianxing stared at Fang Chen for a few seconds before bursting intoughter.


    If you can hurt me in a single blow, Ill relinquish my position as the Qing Province Sword Sect Master to you!


    Amotion broke out.


    The crowd knew that Long Tianxing had to be extremely confident to dare say such words, and this was unlikely to end well for Fang Chen.


    <em>He might be a sword cultivator but its not that easy to bridge the massive gap in their cultivation. </em>They could tell from the spirit ki pulsations from the Spirit Heaven Mountain a few days ago that Fang Chen was only at Ki Refinement.


    You said that yourself. Fang Chen chuckled.


    Make your move, Long Tianxing coolly said.


    A cold gleam shed across Fang Chens eyes as he prepared to unleash the first form of the Eight Barrens Immortal Subjugation Peerless Swordsmanship. A terrifying sword intent arose from him, and his spirit ki rage.


    The crowd saw Fang Chen emitting a brilliant golden light, and their eyes widened in disbelief.


    This was the first time they had sensed such a terrifying sword intent up close. It was hard to describe the sensation, but if they really had to put it into words it felt like they were half a foot into theherworld, as if the sword intent would slice them into shreds the next moment!


    Long Tianxing was stunned. Goosebumps rose all over his body.


    His instincts were shouting at him that this was going dangerousextremely so!


    Xia Xuanjis face turned grim. He realized he had underestimated the sword cultivator. He had no confidence he could escape from such an attack unscathed.


    The three elders from the Spirit Heaven Sect were astounded too. They knew that they would have been goners if the sword cultivator had used this attack on them that day. Even the Spirit Heaven Sect would be leveled before such an attack!


    They were d that they had surrendered their possessions and fled!


    There was a sh of silver light, and the terrifying sword intent gushed out.


    Long Tianxing couldnt conceal his shock anymore. He was just about to defend himself when he heard a furious roar echoed.


    The Flooding Dragon Ind Masters face darkened. He immediately unleashed his spirit ki, revealing his true prowess as ate Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Ate Foundation Establishment cultivator?! Long Tianxing and Xia Xuanji were taken aback.


    So was the crowd too.


    <em>Whats going on here?</em>


    Before the crowd could make sense of this baffling situation, little sword had already pierced through the Flood Dragon Ind Masters spirit ki barrier, and it proceeded to plunge into his heart with unstoppable momentum.


    Pu!


    Blood spewed all over.


    Why The Flood Dragon Ind Master first looked at his punctured chest before ring at Fang Chen in hatred and confusion.


    Do you think I wouldnt know youre from the Sea Dragon Sect? Fang Chen coldly replied.


    The Spirit Heaven City Lord was stunned. The others were also bewildered by this turn of event.


    <em>Why did the sword cultivator suddenly make a move on the city lords friend?! Wasnt he going to settle the scores with the Qing Province Sword Sects Long Tianxing?!</em>


    Long Tianxing was utterly confused, but at the same time, he felt incredibly relieved too. <em>Theres no way I could have withstood that sword!</em>


    Damn it The Flood Dragon Ind Master red at the Spirit Heaven City Lord with venomous eyes. You betrayed me. The Sea Dragon Sect will avenge me


    His body dissipated into ashes after leaving behind hisst words. Even his storage ring was obliterated by that terrifying sword intent too.


    This again. What a pity Fang Chen sighed.


    In just a few seconds, he had depleted and recovered his spirit ki many times.


    Each time his spirit ki fell empty and was waiting to recover, his blood essence would be consumed instead, causing his blood and flesh to wither a little.


    He was d to have eradicated the Flooding Dragon Ind Master. The offensive prowess of the Eight Barrens Immortal Subjugation Peerless Swordsmanship didnt let him down.


    The startled Spirit Heaven City Lord stared at the Flood Dragon Ind Masters ashes in a daze before eximing, W-when did I betray you?!


    Even now, he was still trying to grasp the situation. The sword cultivator should have been facing off with Long Tianxing, so why did he attack the Flood Dragon Ind Master instead?


    <em>Wait Does this mean</em>


    The Spirit Heaven City Lord looked at Fang Chen in astonishment. The truth dawned on him. <em>This must be the person the Flood Dragon Ind Master was looking for!</em>


    That old bastard! He knew that the person hes looking for is a sword cultivator, but he didnt say a word about it. He must have known that this sword cultivator is the person he was looking for from the moment that fellow took over the Spirit Mountain Sect.


    He withheld that information from me because he wanted to probe the sword cultivators means. Little did he know that the sword cultivator already knew about his background and was nning tounch a surprise assault on him.


    But that old bastard thought I ratted on him! If the Sea Dragon Sect learns about this


    The Spirit Heaven City Lordsplexion turned pale.


    In contrast, his daughter and Ye Wenxiu were overjoyed.


    Spirit Heaven City Lord was that person ate Foundation Establishment cultivator from the Sea Dragon Sect? Long Tianxing asked with a frown.


    The Sea Dragon Sect


    The crowd was bewildered too. The Sea Dragon Sect was a powerful sect with a Golden Core cultivator. They had built up a huge reputation not just in Infernoze but among surrounding states too.


    What did I just see?! Ate Foundation Establishment cultivator was killed in a single strike?!


    Thats frightening! Is this what sword cultivators are capable of?


    Unbelievable! I cant believe my eyes!


    Such whispers could be vaguely heard. The crowd looked at Fang Chen in deference.


    Late Foundation Establishment Xia Xuanji murmured as cold sweat drenched his blood.


    He was d he backed down earlier. He wouldnt have stood a chance if that sword was directed at him instead. He would have suffered the same fate as the Sea Dragon Sectste Foundation Establish cultivator.


    Perhaps, he might not have even been able to leave his dying words!


    The Spirit Heaven Sects three elders were terrified.


    Even the first elder regretted his decision. Had he known that the sword cultivator was this powerful, he wouldnt have used themunication talisman at all.


    The Spirit Heaven City Lord slowly spoke up, He is the Flooding Dragon Ind Master, ate Foundation Establishment cultivator from the Sea Dragon Sect


    Long Tianxing felt a shiver run down his spine. <em>That was ate Foundation Establishment cultivator, but even he couldnt withstand that sword cultivators attack?!</em>


    The surroundings fell deathly silent. Only breathing sounds could be heard.


    What the crowd didnt know was that Fang Chens face was swiftly aging beneath his mask. Several wrinkles had appeared on his face, making him look more like a middle-aged man in his forties.


    Fang Chen knew that he was aging, though he had no way of knowing the extent right now.


    His cultivation wasnt high enough for him to execute the Eight Barrens Immortal Subjugation Peerless Swordsmanship, but he still unleashed it twice. This resulted in his core suffering some damage, and it showed on his lifespan.


    Sect Master Long, when do you intend to step down as the Qing Province Sword Sect Master? You said that youd relinquish that position to me if I could wound you in a single move, right? Does that offer still hold? Fang Chen asked hoarsely.


    The Qing Province Sword Sects cultivators panicked, but they calmed down secondster.

 Chapter 264: Staying at the Ye Clan

    Chapter 264: Staying at the Ye n


    A bitter smile emerged on Long Tianxings face.


    Your earlier attack would have killed me too. I am grateful to you for sparing my life. From this moment on, I will no longer be the Qing Province Sword Sect Master


    Sect master


    The Qing Province Sword Sects cultivators tried to stop him.


    Theres no need to dissuade me. I am a man of my words. Do you intend to make me break my promise? Long Tianxing sneered.


    Very well, I shall take your Qing Province Sword Sect then. Lets continue the auctioning of the Spirit Heaven Sects location, Fang Chen said. Make your bids.


    The crowd exchanged looks before offering their bids.


    The Spirit Heaven Sects first elder turned to Xia Xuanji and said, Brother Xia


    Im not afraid of the sword cultivators backing, but Im not a match for him. Ill find another base for you, Xia Xuanji said.


    The first elders face turned awful. He thought that he could redeem the Spirit Heaven today and push it to greater heights, but things werent going the way he expected at all.


    Lets not go against him. You also saw how thatte Foundation Establishment cultivator was in in a single sh Whoevers behind him can probably kill a Golden Core cultivator with a single sh too! the third elder said.


    The second elder nodded. Yes, we shouldnt go against him anymore. Lets just look for another base.


    The first elder fell silent.


    Xia Xuanji stared at Fang Chen with a frown. For some reason, thetter gave off a familiar feeling to him, but that had to be an illusion as this was his first time meeting a sword cultivator.


    The auction continued for an hour.


    In the end, Spirit Heaven Citys Three Great Cultivator ns won the bid. They had clenched their jaws and raised the bid from 2700 to 4000 in a single shot. No one dared topete with them after that.


    They knew that the Three Great Cultivator ns had only offered such a high price to fawn on the sword cultivator. They were afraid that they would be implicated by Long Tianxing, but at the same time, they were also hoping that this gesture of goodwill could help them befriend him too.


    This ce will be yours from now onward. Fang Chen nodded as he epted the 4000 low-grade ki stones.


    He had more than 9000 low-grade ki stones in his storage ring now, which was a kings ransom.


    Are you local cultivator ns? Fang Chen suddenly asked.


    The Ye ns patriarch rushed to answer the question, Indeed we are. I am Ye Zhenghe, the patriarch of the Ye n.


    I presume you should know where I can buy spirit ores, right? Fang Chen asked.


    He thought that it would be more efficient to have little sword devour spirit ores than artifacts, since what it devoured was not the artifacts daosoul imprints but the spirit materials they were made of.


    Spirit ores? Of course! the Ye ns patriarch quickly replied. Elder, you have asked the right person! We are merchants, so we can get you the best spirit ores! Why dont you stay in our Ye Manor while we get things sorted out?


    The Xu ns and Zhou ns patriarch felt an urge to cut their tongues off. <em>Argh, this useless tongue of ours! How can we let the Ye ns old fogey beat us to the punch twice!</em>


    Just then, the Spirit Heaven City Lord walked up to Fang Chen and politely said, Perhaps, I could be of assistance to you if youre looking for spirit ores.


    The three patriarchs turned to stare at the Spirit Heaven City Lord. <em>Shameless! Why is a Foundation Establishment cultivator like you fawning over a Ki Refinement cultivator?!</em>


    Thanks for your offer, but Ill stay at the Ye n for the time being. Ill approach you if I require further assistance, Fang Chen politely replied.


    The Ye ns patriarch was overjoyed. Elder, follow me.


    The Qing Province Sword Sects cultivators exchanged looks. Before they could say a word, Fang Chen ordered, All of you should stay here for the time being. Ill follow you to the Qing Province Sword Sect after Im done with my business here. I am your sect master, after all.


    Yes, sect master!


    The hundred Qing Province Sword Sects cultivators sped their fists.


    Long Tianxing looked terribly awkward. He bade Fang Chen farewell before leaving in a hurry.


    Brother Long, the Qing Province Sword Sects possessions are now mine. I hope you arent thinking about taking anything away with you, Fang Chens voice drifted with the wind.


    Long Tianxing nearly staggered. Of course, of course!


    Then, he quickly disappeared from everyones sight.


    The crowd felt wistful. Who could have thought that such a plight would ever befall the lofty Qing Province Sword Sect Master?


    After Fang Chen left with the Ye ns patriarch, the Spirit Heaven City Lord let out a deep sigh. He thought that Fang Chen had gone with the Ye n because he still harbored hostility toward him for bringing the Flood Dragon Ind Master here.


    He felt bitter for having gotten the short end of the stick.


    His ties with the Sea Dragon Sect would sour after today, as they would think that he had betrayed the Flood Dragon Ind Master. At the same time, the sword cultivator had lumped him up as one group with the Sea Dragon Sect.


    This put him in a terrible position.


    Zi Han, pack up. Well be leaving Spirit Heaven City today, the Spirit Heaven City Lord told his daughter telepathically.


    Father? Why the sudden decision to leave? Zi Han was still soaking in the joy brought about by the Flood Dragon Ind Masters death when she suddenly heard this news.


    We offended the Sea Dragon Sect. Only death awaits us if we stay here. Not even the imperial n will be able to protect us from their wrath. For the time being, we should find somewhere to seek refuge and wait for the sword cultivator and the Sea Dragon Sect to thrash things out.


    If the Sea Dragon Sect is destroyed, we can return to Spirit Heaven City, though I doubt that it will still be called Spirit Heaven City then


    The Spirit Heaven City Lord sighed.


    Upon returning to the Ye n, Ye Zhenghe quickly arranged for Fang Chen to stay in an independent courtyard. At the same time, he asked thetter what kind of spirit ores he was looking for.


    He was surprised to hear that Fang Chen was fine with any spirit ores as long as they could be used to forge artifacts.


    <em>The person in front of me isnt just a sword cultivator but a cksmith too! Thats an upation as rare as being a sword cultivator in a grade-6 state!</em>


    Most artifacts in Infernoze either came from the previous generation or grade-5 or grade-4 states. There were cksmiths there capable of forging artifacts.


    Elder, may I know your budget? Ye Zhenghe carefully asked.


    9000 low-grade ki stones, Fang Chen replied.


    Ye Zhenghe gasped.


    <em>9000 low-grade ki stones?! That might be enough to buy an entire mine! If he uses this money to buy artifacts instead he might be able to acquire a powerful 100 daosoul imprints artifact!</em>


    If you dont have the connections to acquire that many spirit ores, you can enlist the help of the other two ns too. I need them as soon as possible, Fang Chen replied.


    Yes. Ye Zhenghe nodded.


    As soon as he left, Fang Chen astral projected his soul to search for Xia Xuanji and the others. To his relief, Xia Xuanji didnt leave the city and was instead with the Spirit Heaven Sects three elders.


    If Xia Xuanji was in a rush to leave, he would have no choice but to confront him right away, possibly having to use his Eight Barren Immortal Subjugation Peerless Swordsmanship to subdue him.


    Uncle, dont be in a rush to leave. Let me acquire my spirit ores first, Fang Chen murmured.


    If he could sufficiently upgrade little sword, he would be confident of suppressing Xia Xuanji without relying on the Eight Immortals Immortal Subjugation Peerless Swordsmanship, so that he could force thetter to divulge the whereabouts of his aunt, Fang Cangyue!

 Chapter 265: Finding a Helper

    Chapter 265: Finding a Helper


    In the Ye ns main hall


    Father, why are we fawning on the sword cultivator? He killed the Sea Dragon Sectste Foundation Establishment cultivator! If the Sea Dragon Sect pursues this matter a middle-aged man asked.


    The Ye ns patriarch looked at the middle-aged man, followed by the other doubtful nsmen, before letting out a sigh. He killed ate Foundation Establishment cultivator with a single sh. Do you think whoevers behind him would fear a mere Golden Core cultivator?


    <em>A mere Golden Core cultivator</em>


    The Ye nsmen thought that their patriarch was arrogant to say such words, but they had to admit that he made sense. The sword cultivator had to have a powerful background to possess such formidable means.


    If the Sea Dragon Sects Golden Core cultivator learned that histe Foundation Establishment cultivator had been killed in a single sh, he would probably hesitate to avenge him.


    That sword cultivator intends to buy a huge amount of spirit materials. Reach out to the Xu n and the Zhou n and tell them to contact their suppliers. We need to secure the items as soon as possible, the Ye ns patriarch ordered.


    Yes, patriarch. The middle-aged man quickly left.


    The following day, the Ye ns patriarch excitedly knocked on Fang Chens door and said, Elder, we have gotten into contact with the suppliers and secured thirteen spirit materials, be it Moonsunk Gold, Crimsonfire Metal, Adamantium Jade I made a rough calction, and those should add up to 9000 low-grade ki stones. Its just that


    The Ye ns patriarch suddenly revealed a conflicted look.


    Speak, Fang Chen said.


    We arent able to raise enough funds to pay the suppliers the Ye ns patriarch replied with a bitter smile.


    Thats not a problem. Ill hand you 4000 low-grade ki stones first. Use it. Ill pay the other half when the spirit materials are delivered to me, Fang Chan said as he took out 4000 low-grade ki stones.


    Fang Chen took out 4000 low-grade ki stones and handed it to the Ye ns patriarch. How long will it take for the goods to be delivered?


    The Ye ns thumped his chest and replied, The spirit ores will arrive at Spirit Heaven City within two days!


    One day. Fang Chen smiled. Ill only give you one day.


    One day?! The Ye ns patriarch was startled. Then, he clenched his jaws and nodded. Rest assured, elder. Ill personally escort the goods with the Xu ns and the Zhou ns patriarchs. The spirit ores will arrive within a day.


    Good. Fang Chen nodded.


    The Ye ns patriarch humbly took his leave.


    Now that he was alone in the room, Fang Chen took off his mask. He looked at his aged face in the mirror and sighed in distress. He no longer looked as spirited and dashing as he was before.


    Im looking like this even though I havent reached 24 yet. My depleted lifespan has to be replenished via spirit fruits or pills; just cultivating wont help, Fang Chen murmured.


    Sword cultivators tended to only have a lifespan of around a third of their peers, and he might have expended around 30 to 50 years of his lifespan from forcefully executing the Eight Barrens Immortal Subjugation Peerless Swordsmanship.


    However, he had no regrets.


    Had he not done that, he wouldnt have been able to kill the Sea Dragon Sectste Foundation Establishment cultivator, let alone intimidate the Sea Dragon Sect.


    E-elder! a voice echoed outside.


    Fang Chen put on his mask and walked out. Ye Wenxiu and Abbess Clearlotus were standing at the entrance of his courtyard.


    Elder, this abbess ims to be acquainted with you. I thought that might be one of your sect members, so I brought her in Ye Wenxiu mustered his courage and reported.


    That day, at the City Lord Manor, he heard that Fang Chen had a nun who appeared to be from the Moon Monastery with him. It was on this basis that he dared to bring Abbess Clearlotus in.


    Thank you. Fang Chen nodded. He gestured to Abbess Clearlotus and said, Come in.


    Abbess Clearlotus was afraid of exposing Fang Chens identity, so she refrained from greeting thetter. She also thanked Ye Wenxiu before entering the courtyard.


    Ye Wenxiu was disappointed to see that Fang Chen didnt react much. Watching as the two of them walked into the room, he gathered his courage and said, Elder, is it possible for me to walk on the road of a sword cultivator?


    You are? Fang Chen halted his footsteps and turned to Ye Wenxiu.


    I am Ye Wenxiu. The Ye ns patriarch is my grandfather.


    He had seen what Fang Chen was capable of, and he hoped to reach such a level one day too. His desire for power was more intense than ever after he nearly lost the woman he loved to the Flooding Dragon Ind Master.


    If not for that, he wouldnt have dared to be this bold.


    The road of a sword cultivator is tough. Fang Chen shook his head before bringing Abbess Clearlotus into the room.


    Ye Wenxiu lowered his head in disappointment.


    A few other Ye nsmen had been eyeing him from the shadows. They waited for Fang Chen to close his room door before rushing over.


    Wenxiu, you should stop dreaming. It isnt that easy to obtain a sword cultivators legacy.


    You should avoiding here lest you offend that elder.


    The Ye nsmen advised.


    Ye Wenxiu clenched his fists and hissed, How would I know if I dont give it a try?


    With that, he turned around and left.


    One of the Ye nsmen shook his head and said, There hasnt been a real sword cultivator from our Infernoze for many years now. Wenxiu is daydreaming.


    Given that elders means, he could simply look for disciples in grade-5 or grade-4 states. The spirit ki is much richer there, so the cultivators there are more talented than us, another Ye nsman said.


    In the room, Abbess Clearlotus noticed that Fang Chen was still wearing the mask, but she didnt think much about it. Young master, I think I saw your Great Xias ex-emperor yesterday.


    You saw him too? Fang Chen was surprised, but he soon nodded with a smile. You have good eyes. That is Xia Xuanji. I didnt expect him to be a Foundation Establishment cultivator. He has met you before, so you should remain in the Ye n for the time being. Otherwise, he might figure out my identity.


    Young master, I fear your Great Xias ex-emperor really has ties with the Blood Spirit Cult. There are many vengeful ghosts following him, Abbess Clearlotus whispered.


    How many? Fang Chen lifted his eyebrows.


    Abbess Clearlotus thought about it before replying, I-Im not sure, but there has to be at least hundreds of them.


    Fang Chen nodded. He is a Blood Spirit Cultist. Those should be the ones he killed with his hands, but there are many more whom he has indirectly harmed. Do you have amunication talisman?


    <em>Communication talisman?</em>Abbess Clearlotus nodded. My master gave me two before we left.


    Send a message to your master. I need a favor. Fang Chen walked up to Abbess Clearlotus and whispered to her.


    Abbess Clearlotus hurriedly nodded. She took out amunication talisman and ignited it.


    In the Moon Monastery, one of themunication talismans in Abbess Moonchasers possession burned to ashes.


    The Great Xias ex-emperor, the Blood Spirit Cult


    A contemtive gleam shed across her eyes.

 Chapter 266: If I See One, I’ll Kill One

    Chapter 266: If I See One, I¡¯ll Kill One


    Fang Chen¡¯s soul floated above a courtyard in Spirit Heaven City, eavesdropping on the conversation between Xia Xuanji and the Spirit Heaven Sect¡¯s first elder.


    ¡°I¡¯ve checked. There¡¯s a human settlement 1000 kilometers south of Spirit Heaven City. It has a poption of around a million people. Recently, they had a grudge with another settlement, and the other party called a twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator to stand up for them.


    ¡°The battle naturally subsided as soon as the cultivator appeared. This isn¡¯t what I want to see. Thus, I want you to show your faces there and make those two settlements fight to the death,¡± Xia Xuanji calmly said.


    The Spirit Heaven Sect¡¯s first elder was startled. He was no fool; he knew that doing so would incur karma upon himself.


    ¡°Brother Xia, I have promised to help you, but what you asked of me will result in great casualties. How am I to continue cultivating if I incur such karma?¡±


    ¡°Karma? Now that you¡¯re in our Blood Spirit Cult, you shouldn¡¯t fear karma. We walk a path that defies the world. There are many malevolent cultivators who tolerate the ants crawling before them and live a humble life out of fear of karma, but these ants are stealing our spirit ki and resources, making it harder for us to climb to greater heights.


    ¡°Our Blood Spirit Cult turns these ants into our resources. Through that, we¡¯re reducing the loss in the world¡¯s spirit ki while raising our own cultivation. As for the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions¡­ what¡¯s there to fear if you can¡¯t reach that level?¡± Xia Xuanji nonchntly pointed out.


    Fang Chen was dumbstruck.


    Xia Xuanji was speaking as if there was nothing wrong with his actions. It showed just how deeply rooted the Blood Spirit Cult¡¯s teaching was in him.¡°Your efforts won¡¯t be in vain. The Blood Spirit Cult is generous to its contributing members. As long as you fulfill this task, I¡¯ll apply for a Foundation Establishment Pill on your behalf, allowing you to better serve us. You should know that it hasn¡¯t been long since I started cultivating, but I have already reached mid Foundation Establishment,¡± Xia Xuanji said with a chuckle.


    ¡°This is all thanks to the Blood Spirit Divine Pill. I am proof that the Blood Spirit Cult¡¯s path is right! Our sect ancestor is also somewhere out of your sight, working hard to correct our cult¡¯s name. It¡¯s only a matter of time before we step out of the shadows and walk openly in the light!¡±


    <em>Sect ancestor?! </em>Fang Chen was shocked. <em>The Blood Spirit Cult is so strong as to even have a sect ancestor?!</em>


    The Enlightenment Heaven Supreme had once told him that not a single person in the past hundred thousand years had ascended to immortality. So, those who could have ascended to immortality opted for a different path¡ªthey became untitled immortals!


    Untitled immortals, otherwise known as sect ancestors, grasped their sect¡¯s fate in their hands.


    This was a level transcending the Four Realms, Three Mid Realms, and Three Upper Realms. That was an entity that stood at the peak of the world.


    He suspected that the fairy who had caused him to go blind just by looking at her was a sect ancestor too.


    If the Blood Spirit Cult had such a powerful expert, it would be a power more terrifying than Fang Chen had previously expected. They appeared even in a grade-9 state; the odds were likely that they had fangs all around the world!


    This left Fang Chen feeling helpless. <em>Can I, a measly eleventh stage Ki Refinement cultivator, defy such a behemoth?</em>


    ¡°Brother Xia, how strong is your Blood Spirit Cult?¡± the first elder asked with gritted teeth.


    Xia Xuanji smirked in glee. ¡°Our traces can be found in grade-1 states.¡±


    ¡°Ah¡­¡± The first elder gasped in shock. ¡°I¡¯ll do it! Brother Xia, I hope you won¡¯t let me down.¡±


    Xia Xuanji chuckled, but the glee on his face deepened.


    Fang Chen suddenly burst intoughter.


    <em>The Blood Spirit Cult might be powerful, but that¡¯s none of my business. I¡¯ll just deal with whatever vermin thates into my line of sight, such as Xia Xuanji. There¡¯s no need to worry too much about the future. </em>


    <em>I¡¯ll just kill one when I see one!</em>


    He believed in little sword¡¯s potential.


    As long as he continued feeding little sword spirit materials and deepened his mastery of the Eight Barrens Immortal Subjugation Peerless Swordsmanship, it was only a matter of time he could execute Immortal Subjugation. Perhaps, he might be able to strike down the Blood Spirit Cult for good then, returning peace to the world!


    ¡°Have your men been keeping an eye on the sword cultivator? What is he doing in the Ye n?¡± Xia Xuanji suddenly asked.


    The first elder nodded. ¡°Our disciples are keeping a lookout. The sword cultivator ordered the Three Great Cultivator ns to buy all sorts of spirit materials for him. It looks like he¡¯s nning to smith a weapon.¡±


    The first elder¡¯s eyes narrowed in envy. ¡°To think that he knows how to smith on top of possessing a sword cultivator legacy¡­¡±


    All of a sudden, he turned to Xia Xuanji and asked, ¡°Why don¡¯t we find a way to kill him and take his legacy?¡±


    Xia Xuanji pondered about it before replying, ¡°He¡¯s able to kill even ate Foundation Establishment cultivator. My cultivation means nothing to him.¡±


    ¡°There should be stronger experts in the Blood Spirit Cult, right?¡± the first elder asked.


    Xia Xuanji nced at him as the corners of his lips crept upward. ¡°There are, but are you confident that they won¡¯t get rid of us too?¡±


    The first elder fell silent. He forgot that the person in front of him was from the Blood Spirit Cult, and the Blood Spirit Cultists were lunatics like the sword cultivators. They had no qualms killing their people, as long as there was enough to be gained from it.


    ¡°There¡¯s a way we can kill him, but you need to call your disciple back,¡± Xia Xuanji said.


    ¡°What is it?¡± The first elder was intrigued.


    Fang Chen was curious too.


    ¡°Have your disciple kowtow from the city gate all the way to the Ye n to offer a cup of tea as apology to the sword cultivator. I¡¯ll spike the tea with the Netherworld Ghost Worm, which will seal his cultivation off for three days after drinking it. That is more than enough time for us to kill him,¡± Xia Xuanji said with a smile.


    ¡°What if he refuses to drink it?¡± The first elder frowned.


    ¡°Cause a huge fuss. Call everyone over. He¡¯d be embarrassing himself if he refuses to drink the tea. Sword cultivators are arrogant, and they have a lot of pride,¡± Xia Xuanji sneered.


    ¡°That¡¯s ingenious, Brother Xia! Even if he doesn¡¯t drink the cup of tea, he wouldn¡¯t stoop so low as to go after my disciple anymore. That¡¯d mean having another strong helper on our side.¡± The first elder shot Xia Xuanji a thumbs up.


    From this, Fang Chen figured that Xia Xuanji wouldn¡¯t leave Spirit Heaven City any time soon, so he didn¡¯t bother listening to their schemes anymore and returned to his body.


    As soon as he opened his eyes, he felt little sword fidgeting inside him.


    ¡°Young master, a servant just came by to inform us that your spirit materials have arrived,¡± Abbess Clearlotus reported from the doorway.

 Chapter 267: Goosebumps

    Chapter 267: Goosebumps


    ¡°They are pretty fast.¡±


    Fang Chen was delighted. It wasn¡¯t evening yet, but the spirit materials had already arrived.


    He and Abbess Clearlotus made their way to the Ye n¡¯s treasury, where they saw carriages of spirit materials being shipped in. Some of these ores hadn¡¯t been refined yet, so they were too big to fit inside storage rings.


    The Ye n¡¯s, the Xu n¡¯s, and the Zhou n¡¯s patriarchs were supervising the shipping of the spirit materials. At the same time, they took out a bunch of refined spirit materials from their storage rings.


    They rushed up to Fang Chen as soon as they saw him.


    ¡°Elder, the spirit materials are in, but they are a bit bulky,¡± the Ye n¡¯s patriarch reported.


    ¡°That¡¯s not a concern,¡± Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    Just then, a middle-aged man cloaked in ck walked out of the treasury and up to the three patriarchs and coolly said, ¡°The items are in. When do you intend to settle the bill?¡±


    The Ye n¡¯s patriarch turned to Fang Chen.¡°You¡¯re the buyer?¡±


    The middle-aged man looked at Fang Chen with a hint of astonishment, especially when he realized that he couldn¡¯t see through thetter¡¯s cultivation. He figured that thetter had an artifact that concealed his aura and didn¡¯t think too much into it.


    ¡°How much do I owe you?¡± Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    ¡°You paid a deposit of 4000 low-grade ki stones. These spirit materials are worth 8763, so you owe us 4763,¡± the middle-aged man said.


    ¡°Mister Lin, why don¡¯t we round down the figure?¡± the Xu n¡¯s patriarch asked with a smile.


    The middle-aged man red at him. ¡°What did you say? Our Heaven Treasure Hall¡¯s goods are affordable, yet you want a discount? Are you asking me to pay on your behalf? You¡¯re already a twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator. Grow up!¡±


    The expression of the Xu n¡¯s patriarch stiffened up.


    Fang Chen, the other patriarchs, and some of the Ye nsmen were here too. Yet, the middle-aged man still lectured him without showing any consideration for his pride.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you think goodwill is important for business?¡± Fang Chen frowned.


    The middle-aged coldly looked at Fang Chen. ¡°I¡¯m here to do business, not to make friends. Why should I show goodwill to you people?¡±


    The Ye n¡¯s patriarch quickly stepped in to defuse the situation. ¡°Calm down, calm down.¡±


    He turned to Fang Chen and said, ¡°Elder, he is Manager Lin from the Heaven Treasure Hall, a twelfth stage Ki Refinement cultivator. The Heaven Treasure Hall is from a grade-4 state, and their business spans numerous grade-5 and grade-6 states.¡±


    The middle-aged man stared at Fang Chen, curious to know how thetter would react upon learning his background.


    To his surprise, Fang Chen nonchntly nodded before replying, ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter where you¡¯re from, but there should be some basic manners when conducting business. If you¡¯re going to put on a lofty attitude, I think we can just call this deal off.¡±


    ¡°You want to call this deal off? We won¡¯t refund your deposit.¡± The middle-aged man burst intoughter. He turned to his subordinates and roared, ¡°Take all our spirit materials back!¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡±


    The cultivators who were shipping the spirit materials into the treasury began moving them out instead.


    The three patriarchs were stunned.


    Abbess Clearlotus stared at the middle-aged man, bbergasted. <em>Is this any way to do business?</em>


    ¡°Calm down, Mister Lin!¡±


    The Ye n¡¯s patriarch tried to mediate between both parties, knowing that he couldn¡¯t offend either side. To be honest, he was more afraid of offending the middle-aged man, who was likely to be from a grade-5 or even grade-4 state.


    Mister Lin¡¯s n might already have a Golden Core cultivator, let alone a behemoth like the Heaven Treasure Hall.


    It would be hard for him to do business in the future if he offended Mister Lin.


    ¡°Mister Lin, this elder is actually a sword cultivator,¡± the Ye n¡¯s patriarch told Mister Lin via telepathy,


    He had been reluctant to reveal Fang Chen¡¯s identity as he didn¡¯t want Mister Lin to directly reach out to Fang Chen. If so, they couldn¡¯t even earn somemission as the middleman.


    Who could have thought that Mister Lin would be so hot-tempered, resulting in this awkward situation?


    <em>Sword cultivator? </em>Mister Lin was initially startled before bursting intoughter. He pointed his finger at Fang Chen with eyes filled with ridicule. ¡°You said that he¡¯s a sword cultivator?!¡±


    The crowd understood that the Ye n¡¯s patriarch must have sent a telepathic message to Mister Lin.


    The Xu n¡¯s and the Zhou n¡¯s patriarchs exchanged looks. They decided to stay out of this, since they had already done what was asked of them. It was not as if they had a say when dealing with the Heaven Treasure Hall anyway.


    ¡°Mister Lin¡­¡± the Ye n¡¯s patriarch said with a bitter smile.


    At this rate, he might end up offending both sides. He was afraid that Fang Chen would kill Mister Lin in a moment of anger. That would surely bring a catastrophe upon their Ye n!


    ¡°Forget it. I don¡¯t like their way of doing business. Let them leave. I¡¯ll take those 4000 low-grade ki stones as alms to them.¡± Fang Chen shook his head.


    The crowd was taken aback.


    Mister Lin was stunned before bursting intoughter. ¡°You¡¯re saying this is a sword cultivator? Sword cultivators are known to be hot-tempered lunatics. This is my first time seeing such a timid sword cultivator. You have opened my eyes today!¡±


    The Ye n¡¯s patriarch was so terrified that he could feel pins and needles on his scalp. He was relieved that Fang Chen didn¡¯t make a move as if he wasn¡¯t angry at all.


    Soon, the spirit materials were all removed from the Ye n¡¯s premise.


    Mister Lin smiled at the three patriarchs and said, ¡°Feel free to look for me if you ever have such good business in the future. I¡¯d be willing to make a trip here to get 4000 low-grade ki stones for free.¡±


    He took onest look at Fang Chen before leaving the Ye n with heartyughter.


    The surroundings fell silent.


    Abbess Clearlotus was intrigued. She knew that Fang Chen wasn¡¯t the kind of person to let others take advantage of him, so why did he not make a move?


    ¡°E-elder¡­¡± the Ye n¡¯s patriarch hoarsely called out.


    ¡°This matter has nothing to do with the Ye n, or the Xu n and the Zhou n.¡± Fang Chen smiled. ¡°You need not take it to heart.¡±


    But the more amiable he was, the more terrified the three patriarchs became.


    The Xu n¡¯s patriarch mustered his courage and asked, ¡°Why don¡¯t wepensate for your loss? We should be able to raise 4000 low-grade ki stones if we sell the Spirit Heaven Sect¡¯s location and do a bit of fundraising¡­¡±


    ¡°Stop worrying. I already said it¡¯s fine. I¡¯m tired.¡± Fang Chen impatiently waved his hand before slowly walking off with Abbess Clearlotus.


    The three patriarchs looked at one another.


    ¡°Something huge is going to happen,¡± the Zhou n¡¯s patriarch said.


    ¡­


    Mister Lin and his subordinates strutted out of Spirit Heaven City. They wereughing about what had happened earlier.


    ¡°That Ye n¡¯s patriarch dares im that young man is a sword cultivator. I have never heard of such a cowardly sword cultivator!¡±


    ¡°Heh, he must be intimidated by our boss.¡±


    ¡°I concur.¡±


    Mister Lin was in a merry mood listening to his subordinates¡¯ chatter. A single trip here added 4000 low-grade ki stones into his private finances. It sure was a worthwhile trip!


    ¡°It¡¯s much better to live a high life here than to be a dog in a grade-4 state,¡± Mister lLin murmured with augh.


    Just then, they spotted two cultivators chatting while walking in their direction.


    ¡°It¡¯s a pity we arrived toote. I heard that the sword cultivator on the Spirit Heaven Mountain obliterated the Sea Dragon Sect¡¯s Flood Dragon Ind Master with a single, devastating sh!¡±


    ¡°Ey, that would have been an incredible sight. The Qing Province Sword Sect Master is known as the Qing Province Number One Swordsman, but he was so intimidated that he even stepped down and relinquished his position to the sword cultivator.¡±


    ¡°He killed ate Foundation Establishment with a single sh and intimidated a mid Foundation Establishment into submission; sword cultivators are not to be made light of!¡±


    Mister Lin stared at the departing duo as a chill started to spread in his body. <em>They¡­ can¡¯t be talking about that guy in the Ye n, right?</em>


    ¡°How far away are we from Spirit Heaven City?¡± Mister Lin asked.


    ¡°We are around 25 kilometers away,¡± a subordinate replied.


    ¡°Quick, let¡¯s hasten our footsteps and leave this ce as soon as possible!¡± Mister Lin roared, and the group began running frenziedly.

 Chapter 268: What Does the World Think of Sword Cultivators?

    <h4>Chapter 268: What Does the World Think of Sword Cultivators?</h4>


    Since the Ye Family Head felt that Fang Chen had suffered a massive loss, he talked with the two other family heads and decided to make it up for him, so they jointly arrived at the small courtyard where Fang Chen lived.


    But as soon as they stepped into the courtyard, they saw a terrifying sword intent emanate from Fang Chen and transform into a streak of sword light that disappeared into the sky!


    "Was that the legendary Sword Transformation Technique?" muttered the Xu n Head.


    The Zhou Family Head nodded. "It has to be. The speed of that sword light far surpassed ordinary sword control techniques."


    There were many techniques one could use to fly, with the mostmon being basic cloud-riding techniques, which are essentially extensions of elemental control techniques, but those were only good for casual travel.


    Beyond that was the ability to control one''s spiritual weapon to fly, but the art of refining one''s spiritual weapon was extremely rare, at least none of their three families had one.


    However, the Sword Transformation Technique far exceeds those two techniques by far!


    "Where do you think... that senior went?" asked the Ye n Head suddenly.


    The other two looked at each other, then looked at Abbess Qing He not far away, but in the end, they decided not to ask.


    Some things were better left unsaid.


    ***


    "Quick! Hurry and pick up speed!" shouted Master Lin loudly. If it weren''t for his reluctance to part with this batch of spiritual materials, he would have slipped away alone long ago.


    Under his reprimand, his subordinates also exerted all their spiritual energy and rushed across the opennd with the spiritual materials.


    Just then, everyone suddenly felt a terrifying spiritual energy fluctuation in the sky and subconsciously tilted their heads upward.


    A streak of sword light approached from afar, and in the blink of an eye, itnded less than ten yards away from them.


    As the light dispersed, they saw a familiar figure wearing a mask.


    Master Lin''s scalp tingled, and he couldn''t help but take two steps back.


    Fang Chen chuckled lightly. "Oh, what a coincidence."


    "Yes, what a coincidence." Master Lin forced a smile, pretending to be calm. "Did you happen to pass by here, senior?"


    "No, not really. I came to find you."


    Master Lin¡¯s eyes wavered with fear, but his background brought a bit of sce to his worried mind. "Have you changed your mind, senior? If so, we can continue with our deal. The Heavenly Treasure Pavilion has always been honest with its customers."


    He really put emphasis on the words "Heavenly Treasure Pavilion" in the hope that Fang Chen would be intimidated. The Heavenly Treasure Pavilion was a fourth-tier empire faction. It had manymercial associations spread all over thend.


    "You seem afraid, Master Lin," said Fang Chen.


    Master Linughed dryly. "Afraid? What could I possibly be afraid of? Haha... haha."


    "You''re afraid of dying."


    Master Lin tried to rein in his fear, and in a low voice, he growled, "I am from the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion. If I die, the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion will not let the matter rest easily."


    "Do you think they¡¯d avenge you if they learned that it was a sword cultivator that killed you?¡± Fang Chen smiled. ¡°Not to mention, do you think I¡¯m afraid of the Heavenly Treasure Pavillion¡¯s retaliation if there be?"


    Master Lin was tongue tied, and he couldn¡¯t hide the fear in his eyes anymore. His subordinates quickly set down the spiritual materials and looked at Fang Chen in panic.


    Gritting his teeth, Master Lin said, "In that case... I have to admit; I had been too arrogant and offended you earlier. You can take these spiritual materials, and as for the remaining payment... I¡¯ll handle it for you!"


    "You?¡± Fang Chen chuckled. ¡°You seem really wealthy for a mere Qi Refining Realm cultivator. Are you really offering to pay off more than 4000 spirit stones for free?"


    Master Lin''s voice grew heavy. "Senior, as you know, Ie from a fourth-tier empire. Although I am only at the Qi Refining Realm, I¡¯ve been working for the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion for many years, so I have amassed a bit of wealth of my own. While I can¡¯t take out 4000 spirit stones any time soon, I can dy the payment on my end until I pay the remaining amount.¡±


    "You have the 4000 spirit stones I paid as a deposit,¡± said Fang Chen.


    Master Lin suddenly had a bad premonition, and he instinctively said, "I don''t carry suchrge sums of spirit stones with me; they have already been deposited."


    Fang Chen sighed "What a pity.¡±


    "Sir, spare my life.¡± Master Lin slowly backed away. ¡°This way you won''t have to bear the enmity of the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion." He knew very well why Fang Chen was here.


    "Tell me, what does the world think of sword cultivators?" asked Fang Chen.


    Master Lin was stunned. The world often portrayed sword cultivators as madmen. They were vengeful, domineering, preferring to overwhelm others in numbers, and they would resort to any means necessary to achieve their goals....


    Master Lin''s face turned pale.


    He had really deeply offended the swordsman back at the Ye Family Manor because of his blind pride.


    A powerful sword light shed, and all of Master Lin¡¯s subordinates dropped dead.


    There was no hesitation. Master Lin let out a roar and turned to flee.


    <i>Puff! </i>A bloody hole was torn through the back of his head.


    Little Sword hovered lightly in the air. "Little Chen, I won''t be polite about these spiritual materials!" it chirped.


    "I told you not to call me Little Chen. I was the one who hatched you...." said Fang Chen helplessly.


    "I''ve been around for much longer than you, so I''ll call you Little Chen!"


    With that, it pounced like a hungry wolf, devouring the spiritual materials without reserve.


    Fang Chen shook his head slightly, walked to Master Lin''s side, removed his storage ring, wiped away his Imprint, and emptied out the rest of the spiritual materials.


    Besides the spiritual materials, there were also a few spirit stones, here and there, probably around three to five hundred. Fang Chen didn''t hesitate to collect them all.


    His stash of spiritual stones neared 6000 again. Not only had this transaction not deplete his pocketspletely, it had even helped him obtain materials worth around nine thousand low-grade spirit stones. He had struck it rich.


    Little Sword was usually quick in its meals, but there were too many spiritual materials this time and some ores needed to be refined, so it took two hours topletely devour them. After it was done, it flew in front of Fang Chen, all wobbly like a bloated person who had eaten too much, with its aura continuously overflowing.


    "Little Chen, I''m going to sleep again. This nap might be a bit longer than usual. Don''t cause any trouble, alright? When I wake up, we might ascend to the second-level of the sword body!"


    Second-level of the sword body? Fang Chen''s eyes lit up as Little Sword returned to his body and fell asleep. He didn''t know what Little Sword meant by ¡°the second-level of the sword body,¡± but he figured that his strength would increase significantly if they did!


    He waved his hand and released a few Fireballs, incinerating all the corpses around. He then flew back toward Spirit Void City.


    With Little Sword asleep, he couldn''t use the Sword Maniption Technique.


    "Wait, let''s try the Five Elements Controlling Technique." A sh of inspiration crossed Fang Chen''s mind. A few breathster, he conjured an earthen tiger and sat on its back, all cross legged andid back as the tiger ran across thend.


    In less than half a day, he returned to the Ye Family Manor.


    Just as Fang Chen entered the manor, Abbess Zhu Yue was flying rapidly toward the city.


    At the same time, the Spirit Void Sect Master received a message from her master and came out of seclusion.


    "I am almost healed. If Master''s n seeds, both you and Zhu Yue will die!" She looked toward the direction of Spirit Void City, her teeth clenched in hatred.

 Chapter 269: Three Steps and A Kowtow

    <h4>Chapter 269: Three Steps and A Kowtow</h4>


    Spirit Void City was rtively calm for the next two days. Apart from the rumors that had been circting about the citylord taking his family and subordinates and fleeing overnight, there was nothing else worth mentioning.


    Fang Chen had continued to craft top-grade Purple Lightning Talismans during these past two days, causing two of his Sky Blue Stone Brushes to be ruined. He was now using thest one. His Thunderous Wood Paper was about to run out, too, and the Nine Tribtions Cinnabar was also running low. On the contrary, the number of Purple Lightning Talismans in his ring kept increasing. These were all hard currency that could be converted into spirit stones at any time, or exchanged for spiritual materials.


    To Fang Chen, the process of crafting talismans was also a form of cultivation. If he had enough spiritual materials, he could work continuously for several months or even a year without rest, making talismans day and night.


    Abbess Qing He¡¯s voice came from outside the door. "Lord Fang, my master has arrived. She¡¯s waiting in a dpidated temple three miles outside the city.¡±


    Fang Chen put away his tools, crossed to the door and opened it. He smiled at Qing He. "Let Abbess Zhu Yue know that I will try to send them over there. When the timees, Abbess Zhu Yue just needs to cooperate with me."


    Abbess Qing He nodded softly. "Understood."


    "It''s time for us to scale Mount Spirit Void," said Fang Chen.


    ***


    Mount Spirit Void.


    Hundreds of cultivators from the Qingzhou Sword Sect were sitting cross-legged on the ground, absorbing the spiritual energy of heaven and earth. Suddenly, the Qi Refining Realm cultivators who seemed to be their masters opened their eyes to see a figure in green clothes walking toward them. They quickly called everyone to rise.


    Everyone¡¯s hearts were on tenterhooks; they had no idea what Fang Chen would do, but they couldn¡¯t help but admit that they looked forward to it a little. If Fang Chen was going to impart them with a few moves, then they¡¯d benefit immensely. After all, he was a true sword cultivator! With their cultivation levels, they rarely had the chance to encounter someone like him, especially now that he was their sect leader. If any of them could be bestowed his sword inheritance, then they¡¯d ascend to the Heavens with a single leap!


    Not to mention that any cultivator who had joined the Qingzhou Sword Sect was already clearly passionate about the sword, so, to them, a sword cultivator was a symbol of faith!


    "I have something for you to do. If you do it well, I will be your true sect leader from that day forward," said Fang Chen as he approached them.


    Everyone¡¯s face stiffened.


    "Please give us your order!" said one of the leading Qi Refining cultivators.


    Fang Chen began, "Listen carefully..."


    By the time a cup of tea¡¯s worth of time had passed, everyone¡¯s faces had turned a little doubtful, but they assured Fang Chen that they would do their best to fulfill his instructions.


    "Is everyone from the sect here?" asked Fang Chen casually.


    Seeing Fang Chen''s interest, everyone secretly rejoiced. They were most afraid that Fang Chen would only value their sect¡¯s site, and not them specifically.


    "Almost everyone is here except for the former sect leader as well as the Grand Elder, whom you have killed, Sect Leader. We¡¯ve left a few disciples back at the sect to stand watch while we¡¯re away, and we have a few disciples at the foot of the mountain right now,¡± replied Qi Refining Realm cultivator respectfully.


    "What''s your name?" asked Fang Chen.


    "I am Zhong Yue, Sect Leader," replied Zhong Yue hurriedly.


    "What¡¯s your position in the sect?" asked Fang Chen again.


    "I am the Second Elder, and I am responsible for guiding the disciples in their cultivation."


    "Alright. You¡¯re now the Grand Elder." Fang Chen smiled. "Do what I¡¯ve told you very carefully. Don''t disappoint me."


    With that, Fang Chen turned around and left.


    Several Qi Refining cultivators began to offer Zhong Yue their congrattions, but they were rather envious in secret.


    "Congrattions, Senior Zhong."


    Zhong Yue tried his best not to show the joy in his heart. "Junior Brothers and Sisters, have you heard the sect leader¡¯s instructions very well? When the timees, don''t disappoint him!"


    "Yes!" responded everyone in unison.


    ***


    In a courtyard in Spirit Void City.


    As a woman calmly walked into the courtyard, the disciples and Elder hurried forward to greet her.


    "Master."


    "No need for the formalities.¡± The Spirit Void Sect Leader waved her hand. She then scanned the courtyard with her eyes. ¡°Where is that distinguished guest you¡¯ve mentioned, Master?"


    "Heh. That girl sure is courteous." Xia Xuanji shed and appeared in front of the Spirit Void Sect Leader, sping his fist.


    <i>Mid-stage Foundation Building Realm!</i>


    Sensing Xia Xuanji¡¯s cultivation, the Spirit Void Sect Leader''s expression shifted.


    The Grand Elder made the introductions. "This is Brother Xia,¡± he said.


    Her master called him his brother, so she wasn¡¯t sure how to address him. "Xia...?"


    Seeing the hesitation in the Spirit Void Sect Leader¡¯s eyes, Xia Xuanji showed a smile. "Don¡¯t sweat the titles. You can address me however you wish,ss," he said. "We¡¯re cultivators; we don¡¯t need to care about such formalities.¡±


    The Spirit Void Sect Leader nodded, then said, "Brother Xia, the message my master has sent me wasn¡¯t very clear. Could you please fill me in with the details?¡±


    Xia Xuanji nodded and exined how they¡¯d bring down Fang Chen. Upon hearing that she had to go to the Ye Family and perform ¡®three steps, one kowtow,¡¯ her face fell. "Brother Xia, don¡¯t you know I am at the Foundation Building Realm?" The Spirit Void Sect Leader''s face turned ame, and her voice took a tone of anger. ¡°My reputation will be absolutely tarnished if I do ''three steps, one kowtow''!¡±


    "Spirit Void Sect Leader, why does it matter if you''re at the Foundation Building Realm? The world of cultivation is a dog-eat-dog world. If we can''t even put aside this bit of pride, how can we talk about advancing to higher levels? Now, what lies before us is the inheritance of sword cultivation, and perhaps even the art of refining. Obtaining either one would greatly benefit us!" said Xia Xuanji in a deep voice.


    The Grand Elder sighed. "Brother Xia is right. Moreover, this person not only injured you but he also seized our sect''s site, trampling on our Spirit Void Sect''s reputation. Opportunities like this are rare. I hope you can set aside your pride for a day to secure a hundred years worth of prosperity."


    The Spirit Void Sect Leader¡¯s eyes wavered, then after a brief moment of silence, she voiced her doubts. "But if the people behind him find out that it was our Spirit Void Sect''s doing..."


    "I will personally take action tomorrow. None of this will be traced back to you," Xia Xuanji reassured them.


    The Spirit Void Sect Leader looked at him for a few moments before muttering softly, "ording to what Master said, your background is extraordinary. Are you really not afraid of retaliation from the sword cultivator behind that expert?"


    Suddenly, the Grand Elder conveyed a few words to her via voice transmission.


    Hearing his words, the Spirit Void Sect Leader''s expression shifted erratically, and she looked at Xia Xuanji with uncertainty.


    Xia Xuanji smiled back at her.


    After some time, the Spirit Void Sect Leader smiled brightly. "Brother Xia, we''ll be relying on you tomorrow."


    Xia Xuanjiughed heartily. "Of course."


    Xia Xuanji was confident that he had blocked off every single path of retreat for the swordsman. If he could obtain the inheritance of sword cultivation and the art of refining, with the help of this Foundation Building Realm cultivator stirring up trouble, he could fish in troubled waters. By refining dozens of Spirit Blood Pills from the me Empire, his gains would be considerable!


    ***


    On the street, Ye Wenxiu and several young members of the Ye Family were having a walk.


    Ye Wenxiu felt stifled and lost; Zihan had left, promising him that she would definitelye back to find him. But Ye Wenxiu knew that the Spirit Void Sect Leader had seriously offended the Sea Dragon Sect, so he wouldn¡¯t be back any time soon. He couldn''t help but wonder when he would be able to see her again.


    "Wenxiu, don''t be so down. Maybe if you keep nagging that senior every day, he¡¯ll be moved by your sincerity and take you in as his disciple."


    "Yeah, if the senior is touched by your sincerity, our Ye Family will prosper."


    Several young members of the Ye Family chimed in, in good spirit.


    Suddenly, one of them pointed and eximed, "Look, isn''t that the Spirit Void Sect Leader?"


    Everyone¡¯s eyes drifted to where he was pointing. When they saw the scene before them, they were shocked. "Three steps, one kowtow? What is she doing?!"


    Ye Wenxiu quickly looked up upon hearing themotion.

 Chapter 270: Apology Tea

    <h4>Chapter 270: Apology Tea</h4>


    People lined the sidewalk, but they didn¡¯t dare block the road itself, let alone stand in front of the figure walking. That person was none other than the Spirit Void Sect Leader. She was expressionless as she kowtowed once for every three steps she took. She didn¡¯t seem to care about the stares and whispered directed at her.


    "What is the Spirit Void Sect Leader doing?"


    "I think... she''s apologizing? She must be apologizing to that sword cultivator who is staying at the Ye Family¡¯s."


    "Oh! That must be it. If the Spirit Void Sect hadn''t offended that sword cultivator, they probably wouldn¡¯t have had their sect site raided and sold!"


    "She truly lives up to being a Foundation Building Realm cultivator; she can really take a loss. She¡¯s given that senior enough face by apologizing. I think they¡¯ll bury the hatchet after this."


    "I was just thinking the other day whether the Spirit Void Sect would disband because of this. Who would¡¯ve thought that this would happen?"


    The Spirit Void Sect Leader seemed oblivious to their discussions, continuing to walk and kowtow.


    "Wenxiu, do you think what they''re saying is true? Is the Spirit Void Sect Leader really apologizing to that sword cultivator?"


    "Maybe...." Ye Wenxiu wasn''t entirely sure. "If that¡¯s not it, I really can¡¯t think of any other reason that would make a Foundation Building Realm cultivator lower themselves to do this."


    A Ye Family youngster nodded slightly. "Yeah. But I think the Spirit Void Sect Leader is really doing the right thing here. If she doesn¡¯t do this, the sword cultivator will probably end up killing her one day.¡±


    Before long, the heads of the three major cultivation families soon received the news and hurried over. When they saw what the Spirit Void Sect Leader was doing, they were shocked.


    The Spirit Void Sect Leader had always been held in supreme regard as she had reached the Foundation Building Realm at a very young age. Even the Spirit Void Citylord had always shown her respect for that.


    "The three Elders must be nearby," whispered the Xu Family Head.


    The Zhou Family Head looked at the Ye Family Head. "Should we tell senior about this?"


    "I''ll go and tell him. You two stay here and observe," said the Ye Family Head before he turned around and hurried off to find Fang Chen.


    The Xu Family Head and the Zhou Family Head exchanged looks. "That old fox, he sure knows how to seize an opportunity!" They couldn''t help but feel that their minds were always one step slower than that of the Ye Family Head, which left them annoyed.


    At the Ye Family residence, the head of the Ye Family hurried to the courtyard where Fang Chen was.


    Seeing Fang Chen sitting with Abbess Qing He, he quickly approached and said, "Senior, the Spirit Void Sect Leader is here, and she¡¯s doing ¡®three steps, one kowtow'' while walking in our direction.¡±


    Abbess Qing He was taken aback. <i>What¡¯s she doing? Is she apologizing?</i>


    She looked toward Fang Chen, hoping to see his reaction. However, Fang Chen remained motionless with his eyes closed. He said nothing.


    Seeing that the courtyard had fallen into silence, the Ye Family Head started to sweat. He backtracked each of his words back in his mind to see if he had said anything wrong.


    After a dozen breaths, a faint light suddenly surged from Fang Chen''s body. Before the two could react, a terrifying sword intent swept outwards.


    Being closest to Fang Chen, the two of them keenly felt the power of his sword intent.


    Even the Ye Family Head, who was a cultivator at the twelfth stage of the Qi Refining Realm, felt stiff all over. He turned icy cold. He couldn¡¯t move a muscle.


    Abbess Qing He had it even worse since she was closest to Fang Chen. Her forehead trickled with cold sweat.


    Just as the sword intent was about to surge and spread beyond the courtyard, Fang Chen''s eyes snapped open!


    A sharp gleam shed in his gray-white pupils, and the terrifying sword intent instantly receded, returning to him.


    Little Sword had awakened, and its awakening had brought Fang Chen a lot of surprises. He could feel that his sword body was several times stronger than before!


    If he were to face a cultivator at the mid-stage Foundation Building Realm now, he was confident he could handle them with ease. He wouldn¡¯t need to use the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture.


    When the sword intent faded, the pressure on the head of the Ye Family and Abbess Qing He instantly disappeared. Breathing a sigh of relief, the two wiped off the cold sweat from their foreheads.


    The Ye Family Head shuddered all over. "What terrifying sword intent!"


    He had been pinned in ce from the pressure to the point where even a mortal would¡¯ve been able to kill him then and there if they wished.


    Fang Chen looked at the head of the Ye Family and smiled faintly. "Did you just say that the Spirit Void Sect Leader is doing ¡°three steps, one kowtow¡± while heading in our direction?¡±


    The Ye Family Head nodded hastily. "Exactly. I believe she¡¯s here to apologize to you, senior.¡±


    At that moment, amotion suddenly arose from outside the Ye Family residence.


    Fang Chen rose and walked outside.


    Seeing that, Ye Family Head hurried to follow.


    However, Abbess Qing He remained seated without moving. Fang Chen had told her not to show herself. If Xia Xuanji saw her, he might immediately figure out that Fang Chen was here.


    ***


    Outside the Ye Family residence.


    The Spirit Void Sect Leader, refusing to rise from her prolonged kowtow, elicited silent admiration from the onlookers. Faced with the supremely skilled sword cultivator, even the once lofty Spirit Void Sect Leader had to humble herself and beg for mercy.


    "So she was really apologizing to that senior.¡±


    "Of course she was. Only that sword cultivator deserves to have the Spirit Void Sect Leader apologize to him in this way."


    The crowd whispered among themselves.


    Within the dense crowd, The Xu and Zhou family heads watched from the sidelines as well.


    Meanwhile, the three Elders had already arrived behind the Spirit Void Sect Leader. They fell to their knees, as did the other cultivators of the Spirit Void Sect.


    Xia Xuanji stood among the crowd, watching the scene with a faint smile, his expression calm and assured.


    "If I can be a sword cultivator, perhaps one day I can have the same demeanor as that senior."


    In the crowd, Ye Wenxiu''s determination to apprentice himself to Fang Chen became even stronger than ever.


    Finally, after a while, the Ye Family gate opened slowly, and they finally saw the terrifying sword cultivator appear, the very same cultivator who had in a cultivator at thete-stage Foundation Building Realm with a single sword strike.


    Standing behind the swordsman was the Ye Family Head. He was almost like a follower with his head lowered.


    "There you are. How dare you show your face again?" said Fang Chen with a faint smile.


    "I havee to apologize,¡± answered the Spirit Void Sect Leader. ¡°I hope you can forgive my unintentional mistakes in the past." She slowly hung her face down.


    The Elders followed suit.


    The onlookers couldn''t help but sigh. Who would¡¯ve thought that the Spirit Void Sect would ever end up in such a situation. However, the sincerity shown by the sect leader and her followers was undeniable. With her taking the lead in such a humble apology, most grievances could be resolved as long as they weren''t too severe.


    "I see that you¡¯re very sincere, so I¡¯ll put what happened before aside. Please rise," said Fang Chen lightly.


    The Elders felt joy in their hearts. Without hesitation, one of them took out a teacup. Filling it up with tea, he handed it to their sect leader.


    The Spirit Void Sect Leader rose slowly and respectfully presented the tea with both hands. "Please drink this cup of tea for me to express my sincerity, senior."


    The expressions on the faces of the family heads changed slightly.


    Their expressions appeared somewhat strange. If Fang Chen didn''t drink the tea, it would seem a bit cowardly in the eyes of the crowd. It wouldn¡¯t match the dignity of a sword cultivator. But if he did drink it... what if it was poisoned?


    The cultivators standing around also seemed to have thought of the possibility, their expressions bing slightly odd.

 Chapter 271: Master and Disciple Set Off Together

    <h4>Chapter 271: Master and Disciple Set Off Together</h4>


    Seeing that Fang Chen did not move, the Spirit Void Sect Leader lowered her head even further down. "Please, ept this cup of tea as my token of apology."


    Suddenly, the head of the Ye Familyughed loudly and said, "I think we can skip the tea. It should be enough as long as he forgives you." He stepped forward to take the cup of tea from the hands of the Spirit Void Sect Leader.


    Fierce killing intent shed across the Grand Elder''s eyes, which he quickly reined in, fearing that Fang Chen would notice. He cursed the Ye Family Head in his heart and vowed that, once Spirit Void Sect restored itself, he¡¯d annihte the Ye Family and refine their blood into Spirit Blood Pills!


    "Isn¡¯t that too much? She has gone as far as to kowtow to show her sincerity, yet he still refused to drink the tea?¡±


    "Is he afraid that the tea might be poisoned? A powerful cultivator who can kill ate-stage Foundation Building expert can¡¯t have so little guts, right?"


    Whispers arose from the crowd.


    "It''s alright," said Fang Chen, smiling at the Ye Family Head. He walked forward and took the cup from the hands of the Spirit Void Sect Master.


    The corners of Xia Xuanji''s mouth slightly lifted.


    The Grand Elder''s heart pounded fiercely.


    The critical moment had arrived!


    Holding the cup in his hand, Fang Chen stared at the Spirit Void Sect Master. "Are you really sincere in your apology?"


    A pained expression appeared on the face of the Spirit Void Sect Master. "Ever since I offended you, I''ve been living in constant fear and anxiety. I couldn¡¯t even sleep, nor could I calm down to cultivate,¡± she said. ¡°Please ept my apology. I¡¯ll do anything, so please.¡±


    "She really admits her mistakes.¡±


    "With her cultivation level, lowering herself is equivalent to the Buddhist saying of being repentant!"


    People whispered among themselves.


    "I don¡¯t mind drinking this tea,¡± said Fang Chen, ¡°but since someone has spiked it with Netherworld Ghost Worm, I can¡¯t. Because if I drink it, I¡¯d have my cultivation sealed for a few days.¡± Fang Chen let out an audible sigh. ¡°Even a martial artist would be able to take my life away during that period.¡±


    Those words exploded like thunder in the ears of the Spirit Void Sect Master. She staggered back several steps, looking at Fang Chen in disbelief, herplexion deathly pale.


    The Grand Elder andpany were so shocked, it was as if they had seen a ghost.


    <i>How did he know?! Didn¡¯t Xia Xuanji say that even Golden Core Realm cultivators would find it difficult to detect the Netherworld Ghost Worm?!</i>


    The crowd erupted with whispers full of confusion and puzzlement.


    <i>Netherworld Ghost Worm?</i>


    Was the tea really spiked, or was this simply an excuse used by that sword cultivator to not forgive the Spirit Void Sect Master?


    Xia Xuanji squinted and started to sink back into the crowd.


    The Ye nsmen and the others turned serious. They were pretty sure that Fang Chen wasn¡¯t just saying this, he had to have really sensed something afoot with the drink.


    "If you have anything to say for yourself, you can start saying it now," said Fang Chen offhandedly.


    Suddenly, instead of answering Fang Chne, the Spirit Void Sect Master, eyes full of resentment, shouted into the air. ¡°Brother Xia, why haven¡¯t you made your move yet? We might be able to take him down together!"


    All hell broke loose in the crowd


    So it was true! She had really spiked the tea to create a chance so she could take down the sword cultivator with the help of others!


    A chill ran down the spines of everyone present. Who would¡¯ve thought that a Foundation Building expert could stoop so low! They had all almost fallen for her false sincerity!


    "If you think that Xia Xuanji would join hands with you to fight me, then you don¡¯t know him very well. He wouldn''t make a move if he wasn¡¯t sure of victory,¡± said Fang Chen with a smile.


    Xia Xuanji, who was preparing to sneak away, paused for a moment at those words. He couldn¡¯t help but stare at Fang Chen¡¯s mask with suspicion. He then opened his mouth. ¡°What do you mean?¡± he asked. ¡°And how do you know my name?¡±


    "Because my name is Fang Xiaotu," replied Fang Chen with a chuckle, raising his hand to release a sword light.


    <i>Pfft!</i>


    The Spirit Void Sect Master mechanically titled her head down to look at her chest, where a deep sword wound had suddenly appeared.


    Just as she was about to look at Fang Chen, another streak of sword light shed.


    <i>Pfft!</i>


    A hole appeared between her eyebrows and her vision blurred. Even in the face of death, she couldn''t see her enemy¡¯s face as he killed her, behind that mask of his.


    The spiritual energy barrier of a Foundation Building Realm cultivator had been effortlessly pierced through, unable to stop the sword.


    In the blink of an eye, Spirit Void Sect Master¡¯s body had been perforated hundreds of times by Little Sword. She had turned into a human-shaped sieve.


    "My disciple!" The Grand Elder cried out in despair as tears welled up in his eyes and rolled down his face. Never did he expect that his disciple would one day fall in such a tragic manner.


    There was nothing more painful than the elderly burying the young in this world. This was the utmost of sorrows; the parent outliving the child, how tragic was that?


    "I¡¯ll send you with your disciple so you can both cross the Naihe Bridge [1] together. I¡¯ll take it as me doing a good deed," said Fang Chen with a lightugh.


    A dazzling light suddenly filled the area, and the people watching had no choice but to shut their eyes tight. When the light subsided, they opened their eyes to a scene of death¡ªall cultivators of the Spirit Void Sect were sprawled dead.


    By now, the cultivators from Qingzhou Sword Sect had arrived at this street and barricaded all directions. They didn''t approach but stood quietly, repeatedly going over what Fang Chen had told them to do in their heads: <i>Be sure to drive people toward the southwest.</i>


    Finally, it all hit Xia Xuanji, and his eyes dted with shock. "Fang Xiaotu...? Fang... Chen?" he eximed.


    He couldn¡¯t believe it. How could the swordsman be Fang Chen, the Divine General of Grand Xia, the Duke of Grand Xia!


    <i>How is this possible?</i>


    While he had always been wary of Fang Chen, he had never once imagined that he¡¯d be this strong! At least, he had always believed that he was stronger than Fang Chen. It was this confidence in his strength that allowed him toe to the decision of leaving Grand Xia. But how wrong he had been! Fang Chen had killed ate-stage Foundation Building cultivator with one strike of his sword before his very eyes! A strike he knew he couldn¡¯t block!


    "It''s been several months since we¡¯vest seen each other, uncle,¡± said Fang Chen. ¡°You still look as distinguished as ever, but I must ask, where have you hidden my aunt?"


    <i>Uncle...?</i>


    Everyone was dumbfounded.


    The one the Spirit Void Sect Master had invited to help her was the swordsman''s... uncle?


    "You want to know where your aunt is?" Xia Xuanji squinted. "The more you want to know, the less I will tell you. If you have the ability, find her yourself!" With a leap, Xia Xuanji soared into the sky, trying to fly out of Spirit Void City.


    Fang Chen moved, and so did hundreds of Qingzhou Sword Sect cultivators. In an instant, the entire sky was filled with sword qi!


    Even though they couldn''t pose a threat to Xia Xuanji, they could obstruct his path to retreat.


    Xia Xuanji''s body burst forth with an aura far beyond the early stage of the Foundation Building Realm. He controlled his treasure as he flew southwest.


    Fang Chen turned into a beam of sword light, following right behind him.


    Zhong Yue came to a halt and waved his hand. "Don¡¯t give chase. It¡¯s alright; since we¡¯ve managed to redirect him southwest, then that¡¯s enough.¡±


    The people around were shocked. These were people from the Qingzhou Sword Sect! To think that the swordsman had been able to beat them into submission in just a couple of days!


    "His uncle is at the mid-stage Foundation Building Realm...¡± muttered the Ye Family Head. ¡°Senior¡¯s family can¡¯t be simple."


    The Xu Family Head and Zhou Family Head were both shocked too. If he had people at the mid-stage Foundation Building in his family, then he most likely had people at thete and grand perfection stages. Or even a Golden Core ancestor, for that matter.


    If a Golden Core Realm sword cultivator were to appear, how terrifying would that be?


    In the small courtyard of the Ye Family, Abbess Qing He saw two auras flying toward the southwest. She instantly realized who those were.


    "I hope Master can help Fang Chen capture him,¡± murmured Qing He.


    1. This refers to the Bridge of Helplessness, which is the bridge that every soul has to cross before it¡¯s reincarnated ?

 Chapter 272: Broken Lead

    <h4>Chapter 272: Broken Lead</h4>


    Xia Xuanji was very fast. The treasure he controlled was a Nine Legged Cauldron, which looked clumsy, but with the support of his mid-stage Foundation Building Realm cultivation, it burst forth with extremely high speed.


    Fang Chen''s cultivation was far inferior to Xia Xuanji''s, so the difference in spiritual energy of each of them might as well have been between a drop and a bowl full of water.


    However, what Fang Chen was using to fly was the Sword Transformation Technique, which was famed for its break-neck speed. Pushing himself to the limit, he was barely able to keep up with Xia Xuanji.


    Cranking his head back to take a look, Xia Xuanji was met with a sight that left him surprised.


    <i>Why is Fang Chen almost as fast as me?</i>


    The day Fang Chen killed the Lord of Passing Dragon Ind with a single sword strike, the terrifying sword intent Fang Chen burst forth made him think that Fang Chen was also at the Foundation Building Realm.


    <i>Could it be that he¡¯s only at the Qi Refining Realm? Was it only because he¡¯s a sword cultivator that he had enough offensive power to kill the Passing Dragon Ind Master?</i>


    Xia Xuanji¡¯s face turned gloomy. "Impossible, no matter how terrifying the offensive power of a sword cultivator is, a Qi Refining cultivator should not be able to kill ate-stage Foundation Building cultivator with one move. There must be something else I don¡¯t know!"


    He didn¡¯t dare fight Fang Chen head on. He was scared that he¡¯d die in one move just like the Passing Dragon Ind Master. All he had on his mind right now was to flee!


    Suddenly, as Xia Xuanji passed over an old temple, a huge horsetail whisk whipped out from within the temple and into the air!


    "A Foundation Building Realm cultivator!" shouted Xia Xuanji loudly.


    The nine-legged cauldron under his feet burst forth with a blue glow, shattering the horsetail whisk into pieces. The sudden attack had hindered his speed for a moment, however, allowing a glint of sword light to use that crack tond a blow.


    Xia Xuanji stared nkly at his stomach, where a bloody hole had appeared. Blood was gushing out.


    Taking that opportunity, Abbess Zhu Yue joined the fray.


    Xia Xuanji tried to use his spiritual energy to suppress his injuries, attempting to rely on the treasure under his feet to break through the encirclement of the two. However, Little Sword hacked the Nine Legged Cauldron into pieces in just a few strokes.


    Without his treasure, Xia Xuanji could only use the Five Element Technique to guard against Fang Chen¡¯s attack while trying to maneuver around the two; however, it was clear that he couldn¡¯t hold on for much longer; his defeat was at hand.


    Before long, Xia Xuanjinded heavily in front of the temple¡¯s broken gate.


    Although it may have looked like Abbess Zhen Yue had worked hand in hand with Fang Chen, helping him defeat Xia Xuanji, all she had really done wasnd that first blow, so Abbess Zhu Yue couldn''t help but look at Fang Chen; she was really amazed. They had mostly been able to defeat the mid stage Foundation Building Xia Xuanji because of Fang Chen¡¯s flying sword.


    But, credit where credit was due, if it weren¡¯t for Abbess Zhen Yue, Fang Chen probably wouldn¡¯t have been able to catch up to Xia Xuanji andnd that blow on him and capture him. At the very least, capturing him alive wouldn¡¯t have been very likely without her.


    "Can you tell me where my aunt is now, uncle?" asked Fang Chen calmly.


    Little Sword hovered point nk between Xia Xuanji''s brows.


    Xia Xuanji stared at Fang Chen intently for a moment before he suddenly sneered. "The more you ask me, the less I will tell you. Kill me if you want, but if you do so, your aunt will apany me in death."


    Abbess Zhu Yue frowned. "You¡¯re a cultivator at the Foundation Building Realm. How can you threaten to kill your own wife?"


    Xia Xuanji grinned wickedly. "Abbess Zhu Yue, you dare to meddle in the enmity between me and Fang Chen? Don¡¯t you fear that your paltry Concealed Moon Hermitage will be annihted?"


    Abbess Zhu Yue''s expression darkened, but she remained silent, evidently scared of the Spirit Blood Sect.


    "You''d rather die than speak?" Fang Chen frowned. "Let¡¯s strike a deal: hand over my aunt, and I''ll let you go."


    "Strike a deal, you say?" Xia Xuanji''s gaze flickered, and he smiled slyly. "How about this? If you join the Spirit Blood Sect, I¡¯ll give you back your aunt. You have astounding abilities at such a young age, so if you join us, we can mold you into the world''s youngest Nascent Soul cultivator!¡± he rumbled. ¡°When we join hands, Grand Xia can be a sixth-tier or even fifth-tier empire. It will not be oppressed no more!"


    "What oppression do you speak of? If Grand Xia¡¯s emperor was at the Foundation Building Realm, the empire could have prospered. The people could have lived lives full of peace,¡± said Fang Chen. ¡°But look at you, what did you do? You ran to collude with the Spirit Blood Sect, threw your own soldiers to the jaws of death, and used their blood to refine your so-called ¡®Blood Spirit Pill.¡¯¡± Fang Chen sneered coldly. ¡°Isn¡¯t your cultivation all thanks to those pills anyway?¡±


    "Those were just ants. Their sacrifice makes me stronger, and the stronger I am, the more prosperous Grand Xia is. If it weren''t for you, how could the situatione to this? I am still the emperor of Grand Xia, and you are still my nephew," said Xia Xuanji


    Seeing that the man had been so brainwashed by the Spirit Blood Sect, Fang Chen cut himself short; his words only fell on deaf ears. This wasn¡¯t about good and evil anymore, it was all about perspective.


    "I''ll give you ten breaths to weigh your decision. But if you don¡¯t tell me what I want to know after those ten breaths, I¡¯ll kill you."


    Xia Xuanjiughed wildly, his face contorted with madness. "Do you really dare to kill me? If you kill me, you''ll never ever find Congyou. <i>Hahaha...</i>"


    "Time''s up,¡± said Fang Chen, deadpanned. ¡°I¡¯ll be sending you on your way. As for my aunt, I''ll find her on my own eventually."


    Sword light shed, and a hole appeared, through Xia Xuanjie¡¯s skull and out the back.


    Even with his head pierced through, Xia Xuanjie continued tough with madness, his voice filling the air.


    Little Sword didn¡¯t take any chances and hacked Xia Xuanjie into pieces with hundreds of shes. Gradually, Xia Xuanjie¡¯s voice died down, and the light in his eyes started to fade away, but before hepletely fell into darkness, his voice suddenly sounded, onest time. ¡° We shall meet again... Chan¡¯er.¡±


    With that, Xia Xuanji''s head slowly dropped.


    Abbess Zhu Yue stepped forward to take a closer look. "He''s dead through and through. Don¡¯t let hisst words get to you. Just a few words to unsettle you, that¡¯s all."


    Fang Chen frowned slightly, then sighed softly. "It''s a pity I didn''t bring Abbess Qing He with me. Perhaps we would be able to glean some clues from her Yin Yang Eyes since it could see dead souls."


    Abbess Zhu Yue was surprised. "You think he¡¯s alive?"


    Fang Chen remained silent for a moment before shaking his head gently. "I don''t know."


    Perhaps he was, perhaps he wasn¡¯t.


    He had seen what Supreme Immortal Pudu could do. He was able to put a wisp of his soul into a soulless body. It wasn¡¯tpletely out of the question that Xia Xuanji might have obtained a way to do something simr. Fang Chen really couldn¡¯t help but suspect that Xia Xuanji had been possessed by an old monster simr to Supreme Immortal Pudu, even.


    Fang Chen went to check Xia Xuanji''s belongings and found that he didn''t even have a storage ring on him. He must have hidden it beforeing to Spirit Void City. His cautiousness was truly someone who had once been an emperor! There was nothing on him that could prove the whereabouts of Fang Cangyue. The lead... was broken again.


    Feeling disheartened, Fang Chen let Little Sword devour the fragments of the Nine Legged Cauldron. After thanking Abbess Zhu Yue, he transformed into a sword light and returned to Spirit Void City.


    When he arrived, he found that everyone was still around. They had probably been waiting for Fang Chen to return so that they could dispose of the bodies littered around, those of the Spirit Void Sect Master and the others.


    As the sword lightnded, the head of Ye Family hurried forward. "Senior, how should we dispose of these corpses?"


    "You don¡¯t have to dispose of them. You can bury them around here, it¡¯ll increase the spiritual energy in the area," replied Fang Chen.


    With that, Fang Chen went around and collected the treasures and storage rings of these guys then he entered the Ye Manor. Someone will naturally take care of the corpses, so he didn¡¯t concern himself with that.

 Chapter 273: Arriving at Heavenly Southern Sect

    <h4>Chapter 273: Arriving at Heavenly Southern Sect</h4>


    The Spirit Void Sect Master had had one or two treasures on her person, as well as some spirit stones. Fang Chen threw those treasures to Little Sword as snacks and pocketed the spirit stones into his storage ring. The Grand Elder and the rest of those people were as poor as mice; Fang Chen had already robbed them naked before they left the Spirit Void Sect, after all.


    When Fang Chen stepped into the courtyard, he saw Abbess Qing He.


    "Have you caught him, my lord?" she asked confusedly, and seeing that her Abbess Zhu Yue wasn¡¯t here, she quickly asked, "Where is my master?"


    "She preferred not to show herself because it¡¯s the Spirit Blood Sect. As for that man... he¡¯s dead."


    Abbess Qing He nodded repeatedly. "Oh, I see, I see."


    "We¡¯re done here. I''ll take you back to the Concealed Moon Hermitage,¡± said Fang Chen, putting his hand on Qing He, preparing to leave. ¡°And about the Flying Eagle Gate site, your master can take care of that.¡±


    Suddenly, a voice traveled from outside the courtyard, in front of the open gate. "Senior!"


    Fang Chen turned to see Ye Wenxiu. He was on his knees, bowing.


    "Please ept me as your disciple!"


    Fang Chen¡¯s eyes wavered. "Do you want to practice the sword that much?¡±


    Ye Wenxiu was happy now that he¡¯d finally received a different response. He shook his head up and down many times. "I''ve always dreamed of it."


    "Go find the Qingzhou Sword Sect¡¯s Zhong Yue. Stay with them till I¡¯m back.¡±


    Fang Chen transformed into a streak of sword light and disappeared into the sky with Abbess Qing He.


    Ye Wenxiu was so happy, he hastily got up and rushed outside.


    The Ye Family Head and Ye Wenxiu''s father happened to bump into him as he came out, and seeing that he was running around, they couldn¡¯t help chide him, "Why are you in such a hurry, Wenxiu?"


    "Senior has already left! I''m going to find Senior Zhong Yue from the Qingzhou Sword Sect and ask him to take me back with them to the sect."


    "What?" The Ye Family Head was startled.


    Ye Wenxiu''s father eximed in astonishment, "He has left? Then why are you going to the Qingzhou Sword Sect?"


    "Senior promised to teach me the sword. He asked me to find Senior Zhong Yue and have him take me back to the Qingzhou Sword Sect to wait for him," exined Ye Wenxiu hastily.


    The two were surprised. The swordsman... wanted to take Ye Wenxiu as his disciple?


    The Ye Family Head flushed from excitement, and he lurched forward, grabbing Ye Wenxiu''s arms. ¡°Is that true, Wenxiu?!¡±


    "It''s absolutely true. Senior told me so himself," replied Ye Wenxiu.


    There were many youngsters from the family around, and when they heard that, their eyes instantly shed with envy and regret. If they had known that it was possible, they''d have plucked up their courage and went to nag that sword cultivator everyday too. They had thought Ye Wenxiue¡¯s efforts futile. They even thought that it might annoy the senior, but never in their dreams did they imagine that the swordsman would actually ept to take Ye Wenxiu in as his disciple.


    The Ye Family Head¡¯s eyes welled up with tears. He tilted his head to the sky and sighed. "Bless our family, bless our family!"


    Ye Wenxiu''s father was extremely excited. "Father, this is great news! If Wenxiu can be a sword cultivator, our Ye Family will be the most prominent family in the me Empire!"


    "Wenxiu, hurry and find Senior Zhong Yue. They are preparing to return to the sect," urged the Ye Family Head.


    "Yes!" Ye Wenxiu nodded and ran out of the Ye Family Manor in a hurry, he didn¡¯t even bother to take any of his stuff with him.


    Before long, Yen Wenxiu found Zhong Yue and told him everything.


    Hearing his words, the disciples around looked at each other in surprise.


    "You¡¯re saying that the sect leader told you toe with me back to the sect?¡± repeated Zhongyue. He didn''t dare brush off Ye Wenxiu¡¯s words because he was young; if what he said was true, then he might receive Fang Chen¡¯s sword inheritance and be the first sword cultivator in the me Empire!


    Ye Wenxiu seemed worried that Zhong Yue wouldn¡¯t believe him, so he nodded and nodded.


    Joy shed in Zhong Yue¡¯s eyes. Since their newly appointed sect leader sent his disciple to their sect, then it could mean that he had ns for the sect and wasn¡¯t just going to ignore them in the future.


    Now that they had a powerful sword cultivator behind them, the Qingzhou Sword Sect might surpass the Heavenly Southern Sect and be the number one sect in the south.


    "We might... even be able to surpass the Spirit Beast Valley up in the north and be the number one sect in the me Empire. If that really happens, we won¡¯t even have to care about the imperial family!" Heart zing with excitement, Zhong Yue took Ye Wenxiu and the disciples and set back for the sect.


    By now, Fang Chen had arrived at the Concealed Moon Hermitage, where he convened with Liu Mu once again. Liu Mu followed closely behind Fang Chen, afraid that Fang Chen would leave again.


    "What''s wrong? Did you not enjoy your stay here?" asked Fang Chen with a smile.


    Liu Mu shook his head repeatedly. Even though the sisters had treated him very well, he still preferred to be with Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen sighed softly. "You''ll have to stand on your own two feet eventually. You can''t stay by my side forever."


    Liu Mu didn¡¯t respond.


    Suddenly, the two saw Abbess Zhu Yue approaching them. "You¡¯re taking him away?" she asked with a light smile, her eyes drifting toward Liu Mu.


    "It''s time for me to head over to the Heavenly Southern Sect. As for the matter with the Flying Eagle Gate, you can handle it."


    "Very well." Abbess Zhu Yue nodded slightly. "Then I won''t see you off."


    "Alright." Fang Chen smiled and nodded at Abbess Qing He, then took Liu Mu and transformed into a beam of sword light and took off.


    "This child''s potential is limitless," mused Abbess Zhu Yue as she watched Fang Chen leave.


    "Master, I think so too," said Abbess Qing He, who had arrived, too.


    ncing at her disciple, Abbess Zhu Yue lightly said, "You''ve stayed here long enough. It''s time for you to descend the mountain again to gain experience."


    Abbess Qing He was surprised. "But I''ve only been here for a few months..." she moaned.


    Abbess Zhu Yue¡¯s lips curved. "If you don''t start cultivating your inner world heart, your junior sister will surpass you in the future.¡±


    "Well, there''s nothing wrong with that.¡± Qing He stuck out her tongue. ¡°My junior sister has a heart full ofpassion.¡±


    "Hurry, hurry, down the mountain you go.¡± Abbess Zhu Yue waved her hand impatiently. ¡°I want you to journey far this time. Don¡¯t let me see you if you¡¯re not at the 12th stage of Qi Refining.¡±


    After a cup of tea''s time, Abbess Qing He bid farewell to her fellow senior sisters and junior sisters, packed her bags, and descended the mountain, feeling under the weather.


    ***


    The continuous chain of mountains was shrouded in clouds and mist, with cascading waterfalls resembling the Milky Way weaving through the mountains. Rare birds and exotic beasts asionally popped out. One could see young men carrying swords every once in a while on the green stone paths erected on the mountains.


    "Is this the Heavenly Southern Sect? It looks much more magnificent than the Concealed Moon Hermitage...."


    Fang Chen scaled the mountain path with Liu Mu as he took in the scenery and buildings up in the distance, above.


    Even from here, they could feel the rich spiritual energy that permeated the air. The Heavenly Southern Sect was truly thergest sect in the south. Its site alone was clearly priceless.


    Fang Chen and Liu Mu brushed past many disciples who were descending the mountain. No one talked to them, but the curiosity that appeared in their eyes was very clear. The Heavenly Southern Sect had a Protective Mountain Formation, so mortals couldn¡¯t easily enter. The disciples assumed that Fang Chen and Liu Mu were here to visit some friends of theirs.


    Soon, the two arrived in front of a mountain gate. The disciples guarding the gate naturally wouldn''t allow outsiders inside easily, so one of them approached the two when he spotted them. "Are you here to visit friends?"


    "You could say that. I''m here to see Elder Jin Nan," replied Fang Chen.


    "Elder Jin Nan?" The disciple was surprised, and his gaze toward Fang Chen couldn''t help but carry a bit more respect, thinking that Fang Chen was also a senior cultivator at the Foundation Building Realm.

 Chapter 274: Holding Someone Accountable

    <h4>Chapter 274: Holding Someone ountable</h4>


    The disciple took Fang Chen and Liu Mu and showed them the way as another disciple went to inform Elder Jin Nan. Soon, Fang Chen and Liu Mu arrived at the guest hall, where they were served a pot of spiritual tea by the disciple.


    Fang Chen gestured for Liu Mu to have a cup of tea. "Please, have some."


    That pot of tea was equivalent to at least ten liters of concentrated spring water from the Fang Family''s spiritual spring. For Fang Chen, it was of little use, but for Liu Mu, it could help cleanse his body of impurities and improve his health.


    Liu Mu epted the tea respectfully and began to drink.


    The disciple who led them here was curious. He was at the fourth stage of Qi Refining Realm and could easily see that Liu Mu was just a mortal. <i>Why would a cultivator at the Foundation Building Realm have a mortal with him?</i>


    After about the time it took to drink a cup of tea, a figure entered the guest hall. Seeing that, the disciple quickly bowed and saluted, "I pay my respects to you, Elder Jin Nan!"


    Elder Jin Nan nodded lightly, his eyes falling on Fang Chen. He seemed doubtful. He sped his fist and asked, ¡°May I ask who you are?"


    <i>What? </i>The disciple was stunned. <i>Elder Jin Nan didn¡¯t even know the visitor? </i>He couldn¡¯t help but suddenly feel uneasy.


    Fang Chen smiled under his mask. Touching his mask, Fang Chen said, ¡°It¡¯s only been a few months since we¡¯vest met, Elder Jin Nan. Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯ve forgotten me so fast?¡±


    Elder Jin Nan found the voice familiar and thought for a moment. Suddenly, surprise flickered across his face. "You are... Daoist Fang?"


    Elder Jin Nan became even more confused. <i>Why is he wearing a mask? Did he offend someone and is on the run? </i>


    Fang Chen nodded. "That''s right."


    Elder Jin Nan''s face lit up with enthusiasm. He quickly crossed over to Fang Chen, sat down, and gestured for the disciple to brew another pot of tea. Then he said, "Daoist Fang, I am delighted that you havee to visit my sect. I sincerely hope that you can stay with us for some time so we can discuss the Dao together."


    Liu Mu drank the tea in silence as the two talked, his head lowered.


    ncing at Liu Mu, Elder Jin Nan couldn¡¯t help but find him somewhat familiar. The child seemed so familiar, he could have sworn he had seen him somewhere before.


    Fang Chen patted Liu Mu¡¯s head. "Do you remember this little kid?"


    Elder Jin Nan was briefly stunned, then it all suddenly hit him, and heughed heartily. "Of course, of course! How can I not remember him? So you¡¯re here to check up on him!¡±


    The disciple who had guided them here was taken aback. He stuttered, "Elder Jin Nan, this child came with this senior."


    Elder Jin Nan didn¡¯t follow, and his brow scrunched up in confusion.


    Fang Chen had been observing him very closely up till now, so seeing him like this, he was sure that Elder Jin Nan had nothing to do with Liu Munding in the hands of the Clear Void Poison King. However, since Elder Jin Nan had promised to bring Liu Mu to the Heavenly Southern Sect to cultivate, but then Liu Mu ended up in the hands of the Clear Void Poison King, that made Elder Jin Nan at fault, still.


    ¡°Elder Jin Nan, you promised me to bring Liu Mu to the sect with you, so why did he end up as a vassal for poison cultivation in the hands of the Clear Void Poison King?¡±


    Elder Jin Nan was startled. "But that doesn''t make any sense..." he mumbled. He knew who the Clear Void Poison King was and had even met him once. How could Liu Mu have ended up with him?


    "Please, Elder Jin Nan, try to remember exactly what happened after you left Grand Xia. The Clear Void Poison King said that Liu Mu had been sold to him by someone,¡± said Fang Chen. ¡°That someone needs to be handed over to me.¡±


    Elder Jin Nan''s face fell. He realized why Fang Chen was here; he was here to impute this to someone.


    After pondering for a moment, Elder Jin Nan slowly began, "After I left Grand Xia, I instructed one of the disciples to take the child to the sect while I... I went to visit an old friend of mine whom I hadn¡¯t seen for many years.¡±


    Thinking of the senior behind Fang Chen, Elder Jin Nan turned to the disciple. "Go and call Senior Brother Feng over here."


    "Yes." the disciple nodded quickly and hurried off.


    Elder Jin Nan looked back at Fang Chen. "If what you said was true and someone from my sect has really done such a despicable act, I will definitely offer you a satisfactory exnation."


    Fang Chen smiled. "That would be great."


    Elder Jin Nan turned his attention to Liu Mu. He scrutinized him, thenmented, ¡°But this child seems quite alright. If he had really fallen into the hands of the Clear Void Poison King, then¡ª¡±


    "¡ªhe took two Green Lotus Seeds to remove the toxins.¡±


    Elder Jin Nan nodded heavily. "I see.¡±


    ***


    In the practice grounds of Heavenly Southern Sect, a young man waved his hand gently, and water-based energies condensed in the air, forming a giant dragon that roared and wed.


    Over a hundred young disciples stood around, apuding and expressing envy at the young man¡¯s skillful disy.


    "Senior Brother Feng, your control over the Five Elements Technique is incredibly profound and unfathomable. With just this water dragon, you can easily defeat a cultivator at the sixth stage of Qi Refining," praised a disciple of Heavenly Southern Sect.


    Senior Brother Feng smiled, nodded approvingly and then addressed the group. "Among all five elements, the earth and water elements are easiest to learn, followed by the wood and fire elements. The most difficult element to learn and master is metal.


    "Since you¡¯ve all already condensed your first immortal vein, you can try and practice the Five Elements Technique. It will be most useful to you in the Qi Refining Realm.


    "The deeper yourprehension of this technique, the less spiritual energy you consume using it. Eventually, you can reach the state of ¡®effortlessly lifting a thousand pounds with four ounces of force.¡¯


    "None of you have any treasures, and you might not even have any treasures when you descend the mountain to venture into the world and gain experience, so by practicing this technique you can ensure that you won¡¯t be defenseless if you encounter any enemies.¡±


    The disciples nodded and began to practice. However, they were only at the rudimentary stage, and could at most condense a small amount of water energy. They struggled to even conjure a tiny fish, let alone a water dragon.


    Senior Brother Feng watched them practice, his face pleased.


    It was then that Senior Brother Feng noticed that a disciple was running over to him. When the disciple reached him, he heard him say, "Senior Brother Feng, Elder Jin Nan requests your presence at the guest hall.¡±


    "Elder Jin Nan? What does he want with me?" asked Senior Brother Feng in surprise.


    "A cultivator came to the sect with a mortal. He ims that the mortal he has with him should¡¯ve joined the sect. He says something wrong must¡¯ve happened because the mortal ended up in the hands of the Clear Void Poison King,¡± narrated the disciple. ¡°So Elder Jin Nan must want you to head over and exin what happened back then.¡±


    Senior Brother Feng¡¯s expression shifted, but he remained rtivelyposed. "I understand. You go ahead, I will join youter."


    The disciple nodded "Alright." He then hurried off.


    Senior Brother Feng didn''t dare to dy. His face wreathed in anxiousness, he scampered from the area and scaled a verdant peak.


    There was only one cave dwelling on the entire peak, and few people visited it regrly because it was the residence of Heavenly Southern Sect''s number one senior brother¡ªthe most outstanding talent in the me Empire, who was only half a step away from stepping into the Foundation Building Realm.


    "Senior Brother!" called out Senior Brother Feng as he arrived at the entrance of the cave.

 Chapter 275: I Hope You Will Grace Us With Your Presence

    <h4>Chapter 275: I Hope You Will Grace Us With Your Presence</h4>


    The cave dwelling¡¯s door was pushed open as a voice sounded. "Why are you so anxious?" the owner asked. It was a young man with a jade-like face. He was dressed in a white and blue brocade robe embroidered with cloud patterns. The spiritual energy in the air seemed to be drawn toward the cloud patterns on the robe and it slowly converged onto them. The robe was clearly a high-grade cloth treasure.


    Senior Brother Feng quickly said, "Senior Brother, the child I sold to Clear Void Poison King has returned to the sect."


    Yu Yuefan furrowed his brow. "He was able to survive this long in the hands of the Clear Void Poison King? Isn¡¯t he just some mortal kid? How did he even make his way up the mountain and find our sect?¡±


    Senior Brother Feng recounted everything he knew and then carefully watched Yu Yuefan¡¯s reaction.


    "You''re talking about that Grand Xia cultivator, aren''t you? I''ve heard from Liu Suifeng and the others that this cultivator has an extraordinary background and considerable skills," said Yu Yuefan indifferently.


    "That''s him. Apart from him, I''m afraid no one would daree to our sect to seek justice for a mortal," said Senior Brother Feng, his voice low.


    "If this was a while ago, I would¡¯ve been wary of him, but not anymore...." Yu Yuefan chuckled softly. The aura of the Foundation Building Realm emanated from him.


    "You''ve reached the Foundation Building Realm?" asked Senior Brother Feng in astonishment.


    "Yes," replied Yu Yuefan with a faint smile. "Thanks to you collecting spirit stones for me over the years, I was able to purchase the valuable Foundation Building Pill. Don''t worry, you won¡¯t get in any trouble. That Grand Xia cultivator will return from where he came. The Heavenly Southern Sect will not tolerate his audacity."


    Senior Brother Feng was ecstatic. Yu Yuefan had finally reached the Foundation Building Realm, which meant that he and the rest of Yu Yuefan¡¯s loyal followers now had a Foundation Building powerhouse to rely on! Not only could they walk all over people in the sect from now on, they could do so anywhere in the empire! Ye Yuefan was still very young, as he had only cultivated for a little over forty years, which meant that he had infinite potential. He was a cultivator with boundless prospects. There was even a good chance that he might reach the Golden Core Realm in the future.


    As he contemted that, Senior Brother Feng''s smile turned ever broader. However, he couldn''t help but feel some apprehension about Fang Chen''s backing. "Senior Brother, ording to what Liu Suifeng and the others said, this Grand Xia cultivator has a powerful sect behind him...."


    "This is the me Empire," said Yu Yuefan with a thin smile. "His sect cannot possibly be within the empire, right? We won¡¯t do anything excessive anyway. We¡¯ll just drive him away, so there shouldn¡¯t be any problems.¡± Pausing for a moment, he continued, "And if we¡¯re talking about backings, I have a deep friendship with the ancestor of the Sea Dragon Sect, who is a Golden Core Realm cultivator. That should be enough to deter anyone."


    Hearing that, Senior Brother Feng was finally able to rest at ease.


    Apanying Yu Yuefan, he arrived at the meeting hall. When Elder Jin Nan saw that Yu Yuefan had arrived, he couldn''t help but be surprised. "You came out of seclusion, Nephew Yu?" Taking a closer look, Elder Jin Nan¡¯s face lit up. "You''ve sessfully broken through to the Foundation Building Realm?"


    Yu Yuefan smiled and nodded. "Elder Jin Nan, I was fortunate enough to make a breakthrough."


    The moment Liu Mu hadid his eyes on Yu Yuefan, he began to quiver, and his hands started to shake to the point where he spilled a little tea on his hand from the cup.


    Fang Chen noticed this. His eyes drifted toward Senior Brother and he saw a certain light in his eyes the moment he saw Liu Mu, too.


    "This is wonderful news for our sect. We should invite the sect masters of various sects toe and celebrate!" said Elder Jin Nan excitedly. Yu Yuefan was the most the sect¡¯s most outstanding talent, and his ce of birth had even witnessed the birth of a spiritual marrow. At that time, two exceptionally talented individuals emerged, one was recruited by the Spirit Beast Valley and the other by the Heavenly Southern Sect¡ªthat was Yu Yuefan. Finally, after many years of cultivation, Yu Yuefan finally ascended to Foundation Building Realm, oveing a very difficult hurdle. From now on, the sky was the limit!


    Looking at Fang Chen, Yu Yuefan smiled. "Do you know who that is, Elder Jin?"


    "Oh, let me introduce you. This is Fang Chen, a friend from the Grand Xia Empire," introduced Jin Nan. Then, he turned to Fang Chen. "Daoist Fang, this is our Heavenly Southern Sect¡¯s most outstanding second-generation disciple, Yu Yuefan."


    Fang Chen nodded lightly, then looked at Senior Brother Feng and asked, "Do you remember Liu Mu?"


    Jin Nan also looked at Senior Brother Feng. ¡°I remember I instructed you to take him back to the sect. So, why did Liu Mu end up in the hands of the Clear Void Poison King?"


    Senior Brother Feng sped his fist and showed a bitter twist. "I am guilty. I encountered danger on the way back and identally lost track of Liu Mu. I had wanted to report this after I returned to the sect, but was dyed due to some trivial matters." With that said, he looked at Liu Mu, his eyes apologetic.


    Furious, Jin Nan snorted coldly. "You can''t take care of a few disciples on your way to the sect. Tell me, what use do you have?¡±


    Senior Brother Feng didn¡¯t dare retort, he only lowered his head.


    Jin Nan looked at Fang Chen and sighed. "Daoist Fang, we¡¯ve really mishandled this one. Fortunately, everything had turned out alright. Let this child stay and cultivate in the sect."


    Liu Mu''s face turned fearful. He instinctively grabbed Fang Chen''s clothes and turned to look at him helplessly.


    "That won¡¯t do. This isn¡¯t about him staying; I am not very satisfied with this exnation," challenged Fang Chen as he turned his attention to Senior Brother Feng. "You say you lost Liu Mu by ident. Then why did the Clear Void Poison King tell me that Liu Mu was sold to him?"


    "How should I know?¡± answered Senior Brother Feng in a low voice. ¡°Someone must¡¯ve found him and sold him to the Clear Void Poison King after realizing he had some talent.¡±


    Here, Yu Yuefan butted in. "This is all just a misunderstanding. Senior Brother Feng knows his mistake and is remorseful. Why don¡¯t we bury the hatchet?"


    "Bury the hatchet? Burying the hatchet is not an option. This exnation doesn¡¯t sit well with me,¡± said Fang Chen.


    The atmosphere suddenly turned awkward.


    Jin Nan looked at Fang Chen, then at Yu Yuefan, and had a sudden realization. Yu Yuefan had to havee here in order to speak up for his junior brother. Jin Nan was well aware that the reason behind Yu Yuefan¡¯s personal intervention can¡¯t be simple, but Yu Yuefan was still the most outstanding second-generation disciple of the sect and he had just ascended to the Foundation Building Realm. Regardless of anything, Jin Nan could only stand on his side.


    Jin Nan sped his fist. "Daoist Fang, since this disciple has already apologized, let''s just leave this matter be, alright? As a gesture of goodwill, I canpensate you with some spiritual herbs and spirit stones for this young brother. It''s also good toy some foundation for him to take a smoother path in his cultivation in the future."


    "I understand." Fang Chen nodded with a smile. "I''ll take my leave then."


    With that, he led Liu Mu out of the hall. Jin Nan opened his mouth but ultimately did not say anything to stop them. However, Yu Yuefan suddenly chuckled. "I¡¯ll be hosting a banquet in the sect in seven days. I hope you will grace us with your presence."


    Fang Chen''s footsteps paused for a moment, but he didn''t look back. "Alright, I will certainlye to offer my congrattions in seven days."


    After Fang Chen and Liu Mu left, Jin Nan''s expression darkened as he turned to Senior Brother Feng. "What happened exactly?"


    Senior Brother Feng quickly looked at Yu Yuefan.


    "Elder Jin Nan, this matter has been resolved, so there''s no need to keep digging at it," said Yu Yuefan softly.


    After a moment of silence, Jin Nan nodded and rose to his feet to leave the hall. As he left, he left behind a parting remark. "Just remember, his background is not simple."

 Chapter 276: The Flame Empire’s Grand Event

    <h4>Chapter 276: The me Empire¡¯s Grand Event</h4>


    Exiting the gates of Heavenly Southern Sect, Fang Chen looked at Liu Mu. "Are you disappointed that I didn¡¯t have them offer you a satisfactory answer today?"


    Liu Mu shook his head. He didn''t want Fang Chen to speak up for him, as he knew that it would only bring trouble onto Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen chuckled lightly as he led Liu Mu down the mountain. "No worries, we''lle back again in seven days."


    ***


    Qingzhou Sword Sect.


    When Zhong Yue and the rest returned, everything operated as usual. After making some inquiries, they found out that the former sect master, Long Tianxing, hadn¡¯t returned since he left for Spirit Void City, which indicated that he was really so frightened that he didn¡¯t even dare toe back and fetch his stuff.


    Zhong Yue took Ye Wenxiue to a small, quiet, elegant courtyard that was brimming with spiritual energy. "Stay in this courtyard for now, Wenxiu. The sect master must¡¯ve his own arrangements for you, so wait ¡®till he returns.¡±


    Ye Wenxiu bowed. "Thank you, Senior Zhong Yue," he said respectfully.


    "Don''t mention it. The sect master has recognized you, so your future is limitless.¡± Zhong Yue chuckled. ¡°Just don''t forget about me when you¡¯re up there."


    "Of course not," replied Ye Wenxiu hurriedly.


    Suddenly, a streak of sword light descended from the sky. When the two saw that, they marched quickly toward the main hall.


    Seeing that Fang Chen had arrived, Zhong Yue and the rest stood respectfully in front of him. They cast curious gazes at Liu Mu as they stood silently.


    Everyone was itching to know who the child standing beside Fang Chen was. ¡®Could he be his disciple?¡¯ was what everyone thought. Some of the cultivators couldn¡¯t help but steal a nce at Ye Wenxiu.


    Fang Chen was standing in front of the main hall which was the highest point of Qingzhou Sword Sect that offered a bird¡¯s-eye view of the hall. "The Qingzhou Sword Sect falls shortpared to the Heavenly Southern Sect; however, it''s still better than Concealed Moon Hermitage," said Fang Chen. He then called out, ¡°Zhong Yue.¡±


    Zhong Yue took a step forward. "I¡¯m here, senior."


    "How many acres of spiritualnds and how many spiritual springs does the sect have?"


    Zhong Yue promptly replied, "We have four acres of spiritualnds and three spiritual springs, Sect Master. One spring is located in your, the sect master¡¯s, closed-door cultivationnd, one on the main peak, and one near the spiritualnd."


    "Not bad." Fang Chen smiled. "How is the growth of spiritual herbs within the sect?"


    Zhong Yue reported the growth of various spiritual herbs, and then gave an overview of the current situation of the sect. For example, he recounted the number of disciples and their cultivation realm. He also mentioned the enmities the sect had, and he also mentioned the sects which they were on good terms with.


    "Oh?¡± Fang Chen chuckled lightly. ¡°Your old sect master has a good rtionship with the Heavenly Southern Sect?"


    Zhong Yue nodded. "Yes, that''s correct. They have always been supportive of our sect, so our rtionship is quite good."


    Fang Chen lips curved. "That makes sense, the Qingzhou Sword Sect already ranks among the top within the Qingzhou region. If you¡¯re able to form a good rtionship with the Heavenly Southern Sect, it¡¯ll be easier to have a firm grasp over the south." After a pause, he continued, "In a few days, some of you can apany me to Heavenly Southern Sect to offer congrattions."


    "Offer congrattions?" Zhong Yue and the other two at the 12th stage Qi Refining elders were confused. What was there to congratte?


    "Yu Yuefan of the Heavenly Southern Sect has advanced to the Foundation Building Realm. He¡¯ll be hosting a banquet, and we are naturally invited," said Fang Chen.


    Zhong Yue and the others took in a sharp breath of cold air, while Ye Wenxiu''s eyes showed deep envy. The name Yu Yuefan was not just famous in the me Empire but renowned throughout! He was the most outstanding second-generation disciple of the Heavenly Southern Sect; his talent was extraordinary. In just a short time, he hadpleted what ordinary cultivators struggled toplete in a lifetime, reaching the 12th stage of Qi Refining. Now that he had advanced to the Foundation Building Realm, he was truly a Heaven¡¯s Chosen!


    <i>But, how did the sect master know about this?</i>


    "Alright.¡± Fang Chen waved his hand. ¡°You can all go about your business now."


    Now that everyone had left, there was only Ye Wenxiu and Liu Mu with Fang Chen.


    "Wenxiu, if you want to cultivate a sword technique, I¡¯m afraid I can¡¯t help you with that,¡± said Fang Chen calmly.


    Ye Wenxiu''s face froze.


    Fang Chen smiled faintly. "However, there are many ways to be strong in this world,¡± he said. ¡°From now on, you¡¯ll be the junior sect master of the sect. Believe me, you¡¯ll find it much morefortable being here, with this status, than being back at your family manor. You will have ess to many more resources for cultivation."


    "Thank you, master!" said Ye Wenxiu happily.


    Even though he was disappointed, Fang Chen¡¯s decision to make him the junior sect master was truly a life-changing opportunity for him. No matter how strong the Ye Family was, its head was only at the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm. The resources his family could offer him couldn¡¯t hold a candle to what the Qingzhou Sword Sect could.


    "This is Liu Mu. We hail from the same ce. Unfortunately, he has been mistreated and has lost his voice.¡± Fang Chen patted Liu Mu¡¯s head. ¡°Take care of him as you would your own younger brother, alright?¡±


    Liu Mu quivered. He could feel that Fang Chen was about to leave him. He didn¡¯t want that.


    "Yes, Master, I understand!"


    Fang Chen smiled. "Good."


    "In a few days, I will make it so that no one in the me Empire dares to harbor ill intentions toward you, but this might also put the sect in jeopardy. We¡¯ll have to wait and see which it¡¯ll be,¡± said Fang Chen. ¡°If something happens and Zhong Yue and the rest don''t return within three days after the banquet, you should take Liu Mu and go to the Concealed Moon Hermitage to find Abbess Zhu Yue."


    Ye Wenxiu''s face turned somber. For his master to say such words meant that a very serious situation awaited him in a few days.


    Ye Wenxiu nodded heavily. "I understand."


    ***


    For the next two days, Fang Chen continued to craft talismans at the Qingzhou Sword Sect. At the same time, he used the Five Elements Technique to deplete his spiritual energy in order to increase his reserves.


    Fang Chen put down his brush. "Little Sword, can we contend with a Foundation Building cultivator at the grandpletion stage with the second level of the Sword Body?" he asked casually.


    Little Sword fluttered in the air, circling him. "Don¡¯t get your hopes up too much, Little Chen. We can¡¯t unless you use the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture, but your cultivation is too low for that. Your foundation has already taken a blow because you used it twice in a row, that¡¯s why your lifespan decreased. If you use it a third time, you might just turn into an old man."


    ¡°So you¡¯re saying that... I won''t die? As long as I don''t die, it''s fine," said Fang Chen with a carefree smile.


    Little Sword¡¯s voice turned anxious. "Little Chen, don''t do anything reckless! If you identally die, I''ll die with you!"


    Fang Chen chuckled. "Don''t you worry, I usually only take action when I¡¯m sure of my chances¡ªsixty percent, at least."


    Suddenly, Zhong Yue¡¯s voice traveled into the room from outside the door. "Sect Master, we¡¯ve received a message from the Heavenly Souther Sect¡ªit''s an invitation!"


    Fang Chen crossed to the door, opened it, and took the invitation from Zhong Yue¡¯s hand. ncing at it, he smiled.


    "It''s time for us to set off."


    ***


    The Heavenly Southern Sect.


    Today, the gates of Heavenly Southern Sect were wide open. Cultivators flocked up the mountain, havinge from all corners of the empire.


    "This is incredible," eximed Daoist Ya. There were other Foundation Building cultivators with him. "I reckon this kid wasn¡¯t even around when we stepped into the Foundation Building Realm, right? I can¡¯t believe he¡¯s in the same realm as us now."


    "Daoist Ya, could you please mind your words? You should address him as Daoist Yu,"mented one of the others.


    Daoist Ya¡¯s turned red with embarrassment, and he smiled awkwardly. "Oh, look at me, I''m just so used to calling him that, that I didn¡¯t notice. Please forgive me, everyone." He nced around and sighed. "This should be considered a major event in the me Empire, right? I see many familiar faces. At least a hundred Foundation Building cultivators havee to offer him their congrattions."

 Chapter 277: Immortal Sea Dragon

    <h4>Chapter 277: Immortal Sea Dragon</h4>


    "That''s right. I heard that even the Spirit Beast Valley is sending someone. Even that genius who had been paired up with Daiost Yu in the past to be the ¡®Twin Prides of the me Empire¡¯ is alsoing.¡±


    "They''re not called the Twin Prides anymore, haha."


    "Do you know if the imperial family will be sending anyone?"


    "Of course they will. I just wonder who they¡¯ll send."


    Suddenly, everyone felt a formidable auraing from behind them. Turning around to see who it was, they found a peasant woman carrying a mother hen climbing up the stairs. She had a gorgeous youngdy and an honest-looking young man with her.


    "Daoist Ya.¡± The woman smiled when she saw them. ¡°Been a while.¡±


    Daoist Ya and the rest quickly sped their fist in salute.


    "Elder Su."


    She was an Elder from the Spirit Beast Valley¡ªat the mid-stage Foundation Building Realm. She held an equivalent position to Elder Jin Nan in the Heavenly Southern Sect.


    Daoist Ya¡¯s gaze swept over to the young and beautiful woman beside her with envy.


    That was Yan Ruyue, one of the me Empire¡¯s Twin Prides. Judging by her aura, she had to still be at the 12th stage of Qi Refining. She hadn¡¯t made her own breakthrough yet.


    Then, Daoist Ya¡¯s eyes drifted toward the honest-looking young man beside Yan Ruyue, feeling envious once again.


    That was a disciple recruited by Elder Su in Grand Xia who had a seven resonance aptitude. Elder Ya had heard that, before he became a cultivator, he used to sell pancakes on the streets of the imperial city. He had earned himself the nickname ¡°Pancake Zhang.¡±


    After Elder Su and her disciples appeared, two more people arrived. It was the Fire Cloud Immortal and the sixth princess, who was following close behind her. "What a coincidence to meet you all here," said the Fire Cloud Immortal.


    Through her peripheral vision, she could see the magnificent scenery around the mountain. She could also feel the dense spiritual energy in the air, which filled her with envy. <i>The Heavenly Southern really deserves to be the top sect of the empire....</i>


    Daoist Ya chuckled. "You¡¯ve also received an invitation, Fire Cloud Immortal?"


    The Fire Cloud Immortal¡¯s eyes narrowed. "What? Am I not good enough to receive one?"


    "Oh,¡± Daoist Yaughed awkwardly, ¡°that¡¯s not what I meant..."


    "Someday, you¡¯ll wind up in trouble because of how loose tongued you are.¡±


    The woman who dressed as a peasant chuckled lightly and nodded in agreement with Fire Cloud Immortal.


    The sixth princess''s gaze fell on Pancake Zhang, seemingly a little intrigued. Pancake Zhang had clearly recognized her, but he only spared her a look before he ignored her.


    The sixth princess felt a twinge of annoyance. He used to be the lowest of the low. But now, he was a disciple of the Spirit Beast Valley. As for her, while her master was a Foundation Building cultivator, her sect was still inferior to the Spirit Beast Valley.


    "Elder Su, is that the disciple you recruited in Grand Xia?¡± Fire Cloud Fairy looked at Pancake Zhang. ¡°Looks like he has already condensed his immortal vein?"


    Elder Su smiled and nodded. "He has recently just condensed his first immortal vein, so I brought him out to broaden his horizons."


    The sixth princess was secretly amazed. <i>He condensed his immortal vein so quickly? So he has already entered the ranks of cultivators....</i>


    A sliver of jealousy glittered in her eyes; Fire Fairy Immortal had told her that it would take her at least half a year to condense her first immortal vein.


    "He really lives up to being a seven chimes talent,¡± sighed Fire Cloud Immortal.


    Daoist Ya chimed in there. "I remember Elder Jin Nan took in a female disciple with a seven chimes aptitude that day, too. She has probably condensed her first immortal vein by now."


    "Yes, she was from the Hall of Compassion back at Grand Xia,¡± said Elder Su, the mother hen in her hand. ¡°Speaking of which, I remember that another girl from the Hall of Compassion joined the Concealed Moon Hermitage. She must¡¯ve made some progress herself, too.¡±


    The sixth princess knew she was referring to Fang Qingyao, and her fists clenched involuntarily. Those who were once lowly individuals were all doing better than her!


    As they walked toward the gate of the Heavenly Southern Sect, they chatted about the recent events that had transpired in the cultivation world.


    Suddenly, one of the Foundation Building Realm cultivators changed the topic, saying, "Do you know that a mysterious sword cultivator has appeared in our empire?"


    Everyone was surprised.


    "A sword cultivator?" Elder Su frowned. "When did someone like that appear in the empire?"


    The Foundation Building cultivator shook his head. "I''m not sure, but I heard that he has offended the Sea Dragon Sect."


    Sea Dragon Sect!


    Everyone¡¯s expression turned serious. Even though the Sea Dragon Sect didn¡¯t belong to the me Empire, its maritime territory was not far from it.


    "So?" Daoist Ya asked. "The Sea Dragon Sect probably won''t easily make enemies with a sword cultivator. They''re all lunatics."


    "What do you mean ¡®so¡¯? It seems the Sea Dragon Sect suffered heavy losses. Two Foundation Building Realm cultivators died, one was the Green Mountain Ind Lord, and the other was the Passing Dragon Ind Lord."


    Everyone gasped.


    Fire Cloud Immortal couldn''t believe it. "The Passing Dragon Ind Lord died? But he was at thete-stage Foundation Building Realm...."


    "If what I heard was right, then yeah, he¡¯s dead."


    "I can''t believe it. Ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator died like that. Sword cultivators really live up to their fame. Better not offend him; they are all a bunch of lunatics!"


    Everyone was horrified.


    Before long, they arrived at the gate. Two rows of Heavenly Southern Sect disciples weed them, along with Elder Jin Nan, who was there to receive Foundation Building cultivators.


    Ancestor Xia Yu was standing with the rest of the disciples. "Elder Su from the Spirit Beast Valley is here," he whispered.


    Liu Suifeng and Zhantai Qingxuan looked up immediately.


    "Even such a figure hase to attend senior brother¡¯s celebration banquet. His name will surely be on everyone¡¯s lips from now on," muttered Zhantai Qingxuan.


    Xia Yu nodded gently, his eyes filled with envy. He couldn¡¯t help but wonder when he¡¯d reach such heights.


    "Elder Su, Daoist Ya, and everyone, you''ve finally arrived. I''ve been eagerly awaiting your arrival!" said Elder Jin Nan warmly.


    Everyone responded politely.


    "You¡¯re too polite. How could we note to Daoist Yu¡¯s celebratory banquet?"


    Just as Elder Jin Nan was about to invite everyone into the Heavenly South Sect, a faint light descended from the sky andnded right in front of them. As the light dispersed, an old man with white hair came into view.


    Everyone was dumbfounded.


    Who was that?


    He came here flying. This was very disrespectful to the Heavenly Southern Sect!


    Elder Jin Nan''s face turned wary. sping his fist, he asked, "May I ask who you are?"


    The old man¡¯s lips touched a smile. "I am Immortal Sea Dragon. I am here to congratte Junior Yu Yuefan on his breakthrough."


    They were all astonished to hear that, freezing for a moment. Then, they hurriedly bowed and paid their respects.


    Immortal Sea Dragon! That was the Golden Core ancestor of the Sea Dragon Sect, the sect¡¯s founder! This powerful figure had actuallye to congratte Yu Yuefan in person? That was a terrifying notion!


    Everyone¡¯s hearts began to pound heavily, almost leaping out of their chests. Yu Yuefan, one of the empire¡¯s twin prides, had silently made friends with such a powerful figure!


    "I-Immortal Sea Dragon, p-pleasee inside quickly!" stuttered Jin Nan as he bowed repeatedly.


    Even the imperial family would get all worked up if such a cultivator appeared. That was the terror of the Golden Core Realm; a Golden Core cultivator could easily destroy an empire with a wave of his hand!


    Immortal Sea Dragon smiled faintly and walked into the Heavenly Southern Sect under everyone¡¯s escort.


    "Phew..." Xia Yu wiped the cold sweat from his forehead and smiled bitterly at Liu Suifeng and Zhantai Qingxuan. "That was intense."


    The two of them nodded in agreement, having felt the pressure, too.


    Before long, the Foundation Building cultivators from the imperial family arrived, and they were about to get angry when they realized that Jin Nan wasn¡¯t here to wee them; however, when they learnt that he had left to greet Immortal Sea Dragon, their faces went nk.


    Xia Yu checked the guest list. "Are all the guests here?"


    ncing over at the list in Xia Yu¡¯s hand, Zhantai Qingqxuanmented, "Abbess Zhu Yue from the Concealed Moon Hermitage hasn''t arrived yet, and neither has the leader of the Qingzhou Sword Sect, Long Tianxing.¡±


    Suddenly, several figures approached slowly. The leader wore a silver mask and a green robe with fancy patterns.

 Chapter 278: Is There A Problem?

    <h4>Chapter 278: Is There A Problem?</h4>


    "People from the Qingzhou Sword Sect have arrived." Xia Yu''s eyes flickered. He led the greeter disciples forward.


    "Esteemed seniors, pleasee inside."


    Fang Chen nced at him. <i>Xia Yu seems to be doing well.</i>


    "Who else is here today?" asked Fang Chen lightly.


    "Are you Sect Master Long Tianxing of the Qingzhou Sword Sect?" asked Xia Yu cautiously.


    The Qingzhou Sword Sect was the top sect in Qingzhou, and Long Tianxing was at the mid-stage of the Foundation Building Realm. Even if they were Heavenly Southern Sect disciples, they couldn¡¯t show him any disrespect.


    "This is Sect Master Fang,¡± corrected Zhong Yue. ¡°Long Tianxing has stepped down from his position."


    <i>The Qingzhou Sword Sect changed its sect master?</i>


    Everyone was surprised.


    Xia Yu didn''t dare probe into their matters and quickly showed Fang Chen the list of people who came. "We¡¯re having many guests today, Sect Master Fang.¡± He handed Fang Chen the list. ¡°Please have a look at this list."


    Fang Chen saw many familiar names written down.


    "Immortal Sea Dragon?" Fang Chen¡¯s face fell under the mask. "The Golden Core cultivator from the Sea Dragon Sect? He''s here?"


    Xia Yu and the rest puffed up their chests a little.


    The Sea Dragon Sect¡¯s Golden Core ancestor hade personally to congratte Yu Yuefan on his breakthrough, this naturally left the disciples of the sect very proud.


    "Yes, Sect Master Fang, Senior Sea Dragon hase to personally congratte Yu Yuefan on his breakthrough,¡± said Xia Yu.


    Zhong Yue and the other two Elders were both shocked and ecstatic. Who would¡¯ve thought that they¡¯d get to meet the legendary Immortal Sea Dragon today!


    <i>This became a bit more tricky, </i>thought Fang Chen.


    He hadn¡¯t taken Immortal Sea Dragon¡¯s arrival into ount. He hadn¡¯t expected that Yu Yuefan would have such a close rtionship with a Golden Core cultivator.


    But there was nothing else for it. He can¡¯t just leave now that he¡¯s here. It should be alright, however, if he wasn''t mistaken, the trump card he had under his sleeve would be enough to deal with anything.


    <i>Don''t let me down, Senior Yun He.</i>


    Ever since Senior Yun He appeared during the Spirit Measuring Bell incident, he had always felt like there was a special power within him that didn''t belong to himself¡ªit was likely that this was something that Senior Yun He had ced inside of him and it was waiting to appear only when needed.


    Seeing that Fang Chen had fallen silent for a while, Xia Yu called out, "Sect Master Fang Chen?"


    Fang Chen nodded. "Let''s go in."


    Just as Xia Yu was about to lead the way past the gate, Fang Chen noticed that Xia Yu had peered behind him, and his face turned very respectful suddenly.


    "The Foundation Building experts of the imperial family are here, Sect Master,¡± whispered Zhong Yue into Fang Chen¡¯s ear.


    Behind them, a group of people walked over unhurriedly. The one in the forefront, presumably their procession¡¯s leader, was dressed in a purple python robe, his bearing dignified.


    "So you¡¯ve arrived, Sixth King. Please,e inside," said Xia Yu respectfully.


    "Mm." The sixth king nodded lightly. Leading his entourage through the open gate, his steps suddenly paused, and his gaze fell on Fang Chen.


    Prince Liu looked puzzled. "You are?"


    Why had he not seen this cultivator before?


    He vaguely remembered the few people around him¡ªthey were the Elders of the Qingzhou Sword Sect, who were at the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm.


    Xia Yu was the one who answered him. "This is Sect Master Fang Chen of the Qingzhou Sword Sect.¡±


    The sixth king¡¯s face darkened, and he coldly scrutinized Fang Chen. "Isn''t Long Tianxing the sect master?"


    "Long Tianxing has retired,¡± replied Fang Chen with a smile. ¡°I¡¯m the one overseeing the sect now. Will that be an issue, Sixth King?"


    The sixth king was momentarily taken aback by Fang Chen¡¯s tone. He didn¡¯t seem to fear him at all.


    "How interesting," muttered the sixth king. He moved his feet once again and stepped through the sect gates.


    To him, it was more prudent to know more about Fang Chen before he had any more interaction with him.


    Zhong Yue and the other Elders exchanged looks of hidden joy.


    <i>The sect master is really amazing</i>, they all thought, almost in unison.


    Their sect master was able to defeat ate-stage Foundation Building expert, which was impressive enough. Now, he stood up to the sixth king without losing hisposure. He was really built different!


    Upon entering the Heavenly Southern Sect, a dedicated disciple who was stationed there to wee everyone led them to a za.


    The za was peppered with jade tforms, each upied by a Foundation Building Realm cultivator, along with the Qi Refining Realm cultivators they brought, creating a bustling atmosphere.


    Everyone was talking, going on and on, making new acquaintances, and catching up with old friends.


    The Qingzhou Sword Sect was rather strong, so their seating arrangement was near the front. After Zhantai Qingxuan led Fang Chen and the others to their seats, countless gazes fell upon Fang Chen.


    "Is that Long Tianxing?"


    "No, he wouldn''t wear a mask in public."


    "Strange. Then who¡¯s that?"


    Doubtful, many Foundation Building cultivators began to whisper.


    The woman dressed as a peasant scrutinized Fang Chen for a moment and her brow slightly furrowed.


    Meanwhile, Daoist Ya, who had been rambling about with a few of his peers, turned to look at Fang Chen in astonishment too, as if he had heard a piece of shocking news.


    "Daoist Ya,e over here," conveyed Elder Su through voice transmission.


    Daoist Ya immediately walked over to her, followed by Fire Cloud Immortal and others.


    "Do you all want to know who that is?" whispered Daoist Ya in a low voice.


    Elder Su eyed him hotly with the mother hen in her hand. "Stop beating around the bush."


    ncing at Fang Chen, Daoist Ya toned his voice a little bit down. "Haven¡¯t we just been speaking about a sword cultivator? A friend of mine has just told me that not only has the swordsman appeared in Spirit Void City and killed ate-stage Foundation Building cultivator from the Sea Dragon Sect, but he has also taken Long Tianxing¡¯s position from him!"


    Everyone gasped in shock, their eyes filled with horror.


    He¡¯s the one who killed thatte-stage Foundation Building cultivator from the Sea Dragon Sect? Was Immortal Sea Dragon here to settle the score with this sword cultivator, then?


    This was a spection they couldn¡¯t validate, however, as Immortal Sea Dragon wasn¡¯t here at the moment.


    Sitting beside Fire Cloud Immortal, the sixth king stared at Fang Chen, her gaze filled with envy and longing; to her, Foundation Building Realm cultivators were already bonafide immortals, the ultimate goal in her life. Among them, those at thete stage were the cream of the crop. How terrifying must his cultivator be to be able to kill those figures?


    It was then that Jin Nan approached them from a distance. "Excuse me, everyone,¡± he said with an apologetic smile.


    He had just brought Immortal Sea Dragon to meet the Heavenly Southern Sect¡¯s ancestor who was at the grandpletion stage of Foundation Building. He naturally wasn¡¯t qualified to sit and join them, so he left and came back to greet the guests.


    "Elder Jin Nan, do you know that the Qingzhou Sword Sect has changed its sect leader?" whispered Elder Su.


    Jin Nan didn¡¯t answer immediately, seemingly surprised. "Is that so?"


    The Heavenly Southern Sect hadn''t received any news about that. He scanned the za until his eyes came to rest on the jade tform assigned to the Qingzhou Sword Sect, and upon seeing it, he was stunned. "How could it be him?"


    Elder Su and the others were taken aback by his reaction. Jin Nan had clearly recognized the sword cultivator with the mask.


    Without waiting for them to speak, Jin Nan walked over toward Fang Chen.


    After looking at Zhong Yue and the rest for a moment, Jin Nan turned to Fang Chen. "Daoist Fang, what¡¯s all this about?" he asked in confusion.


    Now Fire Cloud Immortal and the others were really sure that Jin Nan knew who the sword cultivator was.


    Fang Chen smiled faintly. "What do you mean, Elder Jin Nan, wasn''t I invited by Daoist Yu toe?


    Jin Nan¡¯s brow scrunched up, his face odd. "That''s true, but... why are you here with the Qingzhou Sword Sect?"

 Chapter 279 Immortal Intoxication

    <h4>Chapter 279 Immortal Intoxication</h4>


    "Elder Jin Nan, this is our sect¡¯s newly appointed leader," exined Zhong Yue quickly.


    <i>Newly appointed sect leader? Where did Long Tianxing go?</i>


    Jin Nan''s expression shifted erratically, several questions popping up in his mind, causing his face to turn more odd by the second.


    "Jin Nan,e over here for a moment!"


    Turning his head to look who was calling for him, he saw the sixth king, waving at him. Pushing the confusion to the back of his mind, Jin Nan quickly left and headed toward him.


    Even though he was still shocked that Fang Chen had be the Qingzhou Sword Sect¡¯s leader, he didn''t particrly dwell on it.


    After Jin Nan left, Fang Chen closed his eyes, and his divine soul instantly soared above the za. Every cultivator appeared in his eyes, no one could hide from him whenever he left his body.


    Fang Chen could sense that Jin Nan was at the mid Foundation Building, which was not much stronger than Long Tianxing.


    The sixth king seemed decent enough, his cultivation obviously deeper. He was not far from thete stage of the Foundation Building Realm.


    The faces of the woman who dressed as a peasant, Daoist Ya, and Fire Cloud Immortal were all within Fang Chen''s sight.


    Naturally, he also saw the sixth princess and Pancake Zhang.


    ncing at Pancake Zhang, Fang Chen smiled. "He¡¯s at the first stage of the Qi Refining Realm, not bad at all."


    In the next moment, his divine soul swept away toward a distant ce, quickly locking onto Immortal Sea Dragon.


    Deep within the Heavenly Southern Sect, shrouded in clouds and mist,y a mountain range. Here, the spiritual energy was dense, and spiritual springs gushed forth. The mountains were surrounded by numerous spiritual herbs and nts.


    Two figures sat facing each other by a stone table, with a chessboard ced on it.


    "Senior Sea Dragon, you aren¡¯t here just to congratte Little Fan, are you?" said a middle-aged schr, frowning slightly. He was holding a ck chess piece in his hand, his hand paused in the air, seemingly unsure where to ce it.


    Sitting across from him was none other than the Immortal Sea Dragon. Upon hearing the middle-aged man''s words, he smiled faintly. "I¡¯ve lost two Foundation Building cultivators and several Qi Refining Realm disciples in a short period, one of whom was my fifth-generation grandson. I came out of seclusion to see this person and check if his strength is as rumored.¡±


    The middle-aged man was clearly well aware of the details. "But isn¡¯t he a sword cultivator? It¡¯s not a good idea to provoke a sword cultivator. I suggest that you let this matter rest; otherwise... it may bring trouble to your sect."


    He finally ced the chest piece on the chessboard, looking pleased with himself


    Standing quietly beside the two, Fang Chen watched Immortal Sea Dragon. The Golden Core Realm was really terrifying; his aura was majestic and profound, like a deep, unfathomable abyss. A powerhouse like this could probably pinch him to death. Unleashing the first form of the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture of the Eight Destes aside, even the second or third form wouldn''t be enough to kill him.


    If he threw caution to the wind and sacrificed his life to use the seventh form, there might be a chance. Unfortunately, that was probably a pipe dream. He might not even be able to unleash the second form even if he had to die for it, let alone the seventh.


    Fang Chen¡¯s eyes drifted to the middle-aged man. This was definitely the Heavenly Southern Sect¡¯s ancestor. It came as no surprise to Fang Chen that he was at the grandpletion stage of the Foundation Building Realm. His aura was extremely concentrated and rich. However, his aura was iparable to that of the Golden Core Realm.


    "It¡¯s precisely because he is a sword cultivator that I did not approach him directly," said Immortal Sea Dragon with a sliver of a smile. "Even though I am in the Golden Core Realm, I understand that there is always a taller mountain."


    "It puts me at ease to know that that¡¯s how you think, Senior Sea Dragon," replied the middle-aged man with a faint smile.


    "I am here to talk to you about something else."


    "What is it?" asked the middle-aged man, looking puzzled.


    "You must¡¯ve received the news that someone wanted us to apprehend a man and a woman," said Immortal Sea Dragon. ¡°I have those two people back at my sect now.¡±


    Fang Chen noticed the hand of the Heavenly Southern Sect¡¯s ancestor tremble slightly.


    "Is that true?" His face turned serious. "If so, why didn''t you hand them over to the Jade Dragon Battle General? If I remember correctly, it was he who ordered us to apprehend these two individuals, right?"


    "I¡¯ve been thinking, instead of handing them over to him, why don¡¯t I hand them over to that person behind you." Immortal Sea Dragon chuckled. "What do you think? Would you be willing to rmend me to him?"


    "Senior Sea Dragon... are you nning on joining our faction?¡± The middle-aged manughed. ¡°Aren''t you afraid that the Jade Dragon Battle General will skin you alive?"


    Hearing that, Fang Chen felt that something was very wrong. One of them was in the Golden Core Realm, and the other was at the grand perfection of the Foundation Building Realm, yet the levels of respect each showed to one another seemed misaligned. The two seemed to belong to the same organization but each in different factions, too.


    <i>Spirit Blood Sect!</i>


    These three words suddenly surged into Fang Chen''s mind, and his face turned extremely solemn. Could it be that the Heavenly Southern Sect and the Sea Dragon Sect were part of the Blood Spirit Sect?


    <i>That can¡¯t be right. Given how the Spirit Blood Sect is, they would have multipleyers of disguise. It''s unlikely that an entire sect would be part of the Spirit Blood Sect. Jin Nan helped me kill a Spirit Blood Sect Foundation Building cultivator, he would¡¯ve turned against me if he was on their side, </i>thought Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen focused back on their conversation, hoping to obtain more information.


    "Even though the Jade Dragon Battle General is very capable,pared to the person behind you, he still falls short. If you don''t want to rmend me, then you can just ignore what I said. It''s up to you.¡±


    The middle-aged man fell silent for a moment, then a smile appeared on his face. He took out a Communication Talisman and burned it.


    "I''ve sent a transmission to my eldest senior brother, but he''s a bit far away, so we won¡¯t be hearing from him soon. I''ll let you know once he replies.¡±


    The Immortal Sea Dragon smiled and sped his hands together. "No trouble at all."


    The two directed their focus back to the chessboard and didn¡¯t talk anymore. Fang Chen waited for a while in the hope that they¡¯d speak once more but it didn¡¯t happen. Thinking about it for a moment, he decided to return to his physical body.


    Back at the za, several early-stage Foundation Building Realm cultivators from the Heavenly Southern had arrived and mingled among the other cultivators.


    Jin Nan seemed to have some free time and approached Fang Chen again for a talk. Their conversation didn¡¯t yield much for him until Jin Nan mentioned ¡°that girl from your empire that has a seven chimes talent.¡±


    "She has already formed her first immortal vein and reached the first stage of the Qi Refining Realm," Jin Nan sighed. "With talent such as hers, advancing to the Foundation Building Realm won¡¯t be an issue.¡±


    Fang Chen smiled. "It seems your sect has done a good job nurturing her."


    "Oh, not at all," Jin Nan replied modestly, then nced at the sky. "The ceremony is about to begin. Please have a seat for now." With that, Jin Nan walked to the center of the za and addressed the Foundation Building cultivators behind each jade table.


    "I thank you all foring all the way here today. The ancestor knows of your hardships, so he specially instructed us to prepare some Immortal Intoxication for you to taste."


    With a wave of his sleeve, dozens of jars of wine appeared, emitting a tempting fragrance that filled the air. The smell alone caused everyone¡¯s faces to turn a shade of red.


    "I never expected to drink <i>the</i> Immortal Intoxication today. Haha, truly a treasure" eximed Daoist Ya.


    "Immortal Intoxication?" Fang Chen''s thoughts stirred slightly. "A sip can rece several months of hard cultivation?"

 Chapter 280: Putting on a Show

    <h4>Chapter 280: Putting on a Show</h4>


    Xia Yu and hispanions appeared again, filling everyone''s cup with Immortal Intoxication. They even filled the cups of the Qi Refining Realm cultivators.


    The excitement in the air was palpable, especially among the Qi Refining Realm cultivators. Since Immortal Intoxication was about the same as three months'' worth of cultivation, it was essentially a Spirit Essence Pill!


    "Elder Jin Nan, where''s Daoist Yu?" Someone raised their cup. "This drink must be shared with him!"


    Others nodded in agreement.


    As soon as the words fell, Yu Yuefan arrived with more than ten Heavenly Southern Sect disciples in tow,nding in the center of the za. His handsome face shone brightly in the sunlight, exuding confidence and an otherworldly demeanor, which silently impressed many.


    Many female disciples were left tongue-tied, transfixed.


    Beside Fire Cloud Fairy, the sixth princess gazed at Yu Yuefan with admiration in her eyes. She had heard from her master that Senior Brother Yu was not much older than herself but had already reached the Foundation Building Realm. His future prospects were boundless. If she could be his Daopanion, it would be a great stroke of luck.


    "He has really reached the Foundation Building Realm," muttered Yan Ruyue, who sat next to Elder Su, her eyes flickering with emotion. There was a time when the two of them were both considered the pride of the me Empire¡ªthey had been equals back then. But now that Yu Yuefan had advanced to the Foundation Building Realm, while she was still stuck at the bottleneck of Qi Refining, that wasn¡¯t the case anymore.


    "I think Daoist Yu should be the youngest Foundation Building cultivator in the empire,¡± eximed someone in admiration.


    Daoist Ya couldn''t help but raise his cup and say, "I think even among the major fifth-tier empires, there may not be a Foundation Building Realm cultivator as young as Daoist Yu!"


    As the saying goes, ¡°When the sedan chair is decorated with flowers, everyone wants to carry it.¡± Since the Heavenly Souther Sect was hosting everyone today, there was nothing wrong with buttering them up a bit, especially when they had brought out Immortal Intoxication to entertain their guests. That was a drink brewed drop by drop with spiritual spring water, and it needed at least thirty years to mature.


    "You are all too kind, seniors." Yu Yuefan smiled, taking the wine ss handed to him and addressing the people seated. "Thank you all foring to support us today. Here''s a toast to everyone!" He raised his hand to his mouth and downed his drink in one gulp.


    The people chugged down their drinks eagerly. Since they were mostly Foundation Building cultivators, digesting the wine was very easy. However, it was apletely different story for those in the Qi Refining Realm; as soon as they downed their drinks, their faces turned pink, and their spiritual energy started to rise.


    Standing behind Yu Yuefan, Senior Brother Feng scanned the za with his eyes. When he saw Fang Chen, mockery shed in his eyes. In his view, Fang Chen''s visit today was nothing but seizing an opportunity.


    After drinking from his cup, the sixth king suddenly chuckled and beckoned to one of his men, who immediately approached Yu Yuefan with a jade box in hand. "Hehe, Daoist Yu, this is a gift from His Highness. I hope you''ll be pleased."


    Opening the jade box, a ginseng root that was entirely blood-red in color came into view. Judging by the length of its roots, it had to be at least a hundred years old!


    Whispers spread among the crowd.


    "The imperial family''s generosity is truly remarkable. This is a hundred-year blood ginseng."


    "This blood ginseng alone is worth hundreds of low-grade spirit stones!"


    Yu Yuefan immediately bowed to the sixth king. "Many thanks to you. Please convey my thanks to His Majesty as well."


    The sixth king nodded and smiled. "You¡¯re wee."


    Now that the sixth king had given Yu Yuefan his gift, one by one, the cultivators presented their gifts, too, ranging in value from several dozen to one hundred low-grade spirit stones. On their own, this might not seem like much, but add up all the hundred Foundation Building Realm cultivators together and the total value will definitely be substantial!


    Xia Yu and his clique couldn''t help but feel envious.


    Suddenly, someone noticed that Fang Chen was sitting in his seat, motionless. Curious, he mumbled, "Huh, why is he just sitting there?"


    The sixth king followed his eyes and saw Fang Chen. A smile rose on his lips. "Friends from Qingzhou Sword Sect,¡± he called. ¡°Didn¡¯t you bring any gifts?"


    The za fell quiet suddenly.


    "The Qingzhou Sword Sect?"


    "Didn''t notice them earlier... But, who is this person? I think that should be Sect Master Long, right?"


    "How strange. Is there anyone in the Qingzhou Sword Sect who wears a mask? Could it be Yao Dan?"


    Whispers filled the air.


    Elder Su and the rest¡¯s expression shifted. What the sixth king had just said might cause some trouble.


    At that moment, Yu Yuefan also noticed Fang Chen. Surprise flickered in his eyes, and he couldn''t help but smile. "So, Daoist Fang is a disciple of the Qingzhou Sword Sect?"


    Senior Brother Feng also wore a strange smile. "After all that, that¡¯s his background?"


    "Yue Yufan knows this person?" Daoist Ya was surprised. Could it be that they were wrong, and this person was not the rumored sword cultivator?


    Zhong Yue and the other two gradually felt that something was amiss. They couldn''t shake the feeling that the atmosphere was off. Shouldn¡¯t the Heavenly Southern Sect be treating them courteously? But Yu Yuefan¡¯s tone... was rife with disdain. But why was that? How could a newly promoted Foundation Building Realm cultivator look down on a sword cultivator who could kill ate-stage Foundation Building cultivator?


    Zhong Yue leaned a bit closer to Fang Chen and whispered, "Do you have any gifts prepared, Sect Master? I''ll present them for you."


    "I didn''t prepare any gifts," replied Fang Chen casually.


    Zhong Yue and the other elders were shocked. Embarrassment crept up their faces.


    The Foundation Building Realm cultivators sat with raised brows. <i>He didn¡¯t prepare any gifts? Was he just here for a free cup of Immortal Intoxication? </i>


    The sixth king eximed in surprise, "How could that be? Haven¡¯t you taken over the Qingzhou Sword Sect? You can¡¯t even take out a single gift?"


    Daoist Ya and the others were shocked to hear that.


    "So it¡¯s really him!"


    He must be the rumored sword cultivator if the sixth king said that!


    Daoist Ya was beside himself with excitement. "We''re in for a show today," he mumbled.


    Yu Yuefan was startled. "Took over the Qingzhou Sword Sect?"


    Senior Brother Feng, who was beside him, also looked bewildered. The previous sect master of Qingzhou Sword Sect, Long Tianxing, was in the middle stage of the Foundation Building Realm. How could he hand over the position of sect master to a... Qi Refining Realm cultivator?


    Yu Yuefan didn¡¯t harp on that thought and smiled and said, "No worries, no worries. There is no need for any gifts, Daoist Fang, your presence is already appreciated!"


    Jin Nan chimed in. "Exactly, exactly!"


    The sixth king seemed to have a bone to pick with Fang Chen because of how he had talked to him a while ago, so he didn¡¯t let him off the hook and continued to poke at him. "I suggest you perform a show for us as a celebration for Daoist Yu. This way, we can get a glimpse of how you have been able to take over the Qingzhou Sword Sect.¡±


    Fang Chen nodded. "Alright, then I''ll show you a sword technique." Then, with a casual wave of his sleeve, a sh of sword light pierced directly through Senior Brother Feng''s forehead.


    Senior Brother Fang slumped to the floor, his face frozen. He had died not knowing how.


    The smile on the sixth king''s face froze.


    Everyone was stunned silly, and the disciples of the Heavenly Southern Sect couldn''t believe their eyes. Did someone just kill one of their sect¡¯s disciples during their senior brother¡¯s celebration ceremony...?


    ¡°What¡¯s going on here?!¡±


    Zhong Yue and the other two looked at each other in horror, feeling their scalps go numb as if they had fallen into an ice cer!

 Chapter 281: Facing the Enemy Together, No Regrets in Death

    <h4>Chapter 281: Facing the Enemy Together, No Regrets in Death</h4>


    "We''re finished! We''re finished!" Zhong Yue and the other two were sweating buckets. The Heavenly Southern Sect was thergest sect in the south, and it had a senior at the grandpletion stage of Foundation Building Realm at its helm! Now that their sect leader had killed one of their disciples, that senior will differently not sit still! They were definitely done for!


    Jin Nan''s expression shifted erratically, bewildered. He never expected Fang Chen to actually make a move out of the blue like this!


    Finally, after a brief moment of pin-drop silence, all hell broke loose. The disciples stared at Fang Chen with fury spilling out of their eyes.


    "Kill him! Avenge Senior Brother Feng!"


    "Didn¡¯t I tell you that there will be a good show?¡± Daoist Ya¡¯s expression was strange. ¡°But it looks like the swordsman has some kind of vendetta with the Heavenly Southern Sect?"


    Elder Su and the others looked at each other, but they remained seated. They weren¡¯t nning on getting involved in any of this.


    Fang Chen turned to the sixth king, a smile on his face. "Was that performance to your liking?¡±


    The sixth king fixed his gaze on Fang Chen, and his lips suddenly curved. "You think that¡¯ll scare me? I want to see how you¡¯ll talk this one out with the Heavenly Southern Sect." He then looked at the Foundation Building Realm disciples of the Heavenly Southern Sect, who had already surrounded Fang Chen¡¯s jade tform. "He killed one of your disciples in your very own sect. Let''s see how you¡¯ll handle this."


    The faces of the Foundation Building Realm disciples were very ugly. ncing at the corpse sprawled on the floor, they turned their heads toward Fang Chen slowly, their eyes filled with dread.


    This was supposedly the Qingzhou Sword Sect Master. It was necessary to determine the rtionship between him and Long Tianxing before they did anything.


    One of them had seen Jin Nan speak with Fang Chen before, so he figured they were acquainted. He looked at Jin Nan. "Elder Jin Nan, who exactly is this? And why did he kill one of our disciples?"


    Jin Nan''s face fell.


    Worried about Fang Chen¡¯s backing, he decided to sit on the fence on this one."There should be a misunderstanding somewhere," he said.


    Everyone was stunned.


    <i>A misunderstanding?</i>


    How could an Elder of the Heavenly Southern Sect say this when one of their disciples had just been killed in their sect?!


    As shocked as the Foundation Building disciples were, they weren¡¯t idiots, so they were quick to notice that something was afoot here, and they eyed Fang Chen suspiciously.


    Xia Yu and Liu Suifeng looked at each other and saw the deep horror in each other''s eyes. "Who exactly is he?!"


    A Foundation Building Realm cultivator couldn¡¯t take that, and he barked, "A misunderstanding!¡± Turning to Elder Jin Nan slowly, he thundered, ¡°Feng Buping was my disciple! And this person just killed him right in front of me! What misunderstanding could there be!"


    The sixth king watched this unfold with his lips curved in glee. "Now this is interesting."


    <i>Looks like the new sect master of the Qingzhou Sword Sect has quite the origin....</i>


    "Let me handle this... I will offer everyone a satisfactory answerter," said Jin Nan in a deep voice.


    Hardly had Elder Jin Nan said that when Yu Yuefan, who had been silent all this time, opened his mouth. "Elder Jin Nan, I¡¯ll take care of this. Junior Brother Feng and I have always had a good rtionship. Now that he was killed in front of me, I¡¯ll be the one to offer him an exnation in death.¡±


    The disciples of the Heavenly Southern Sect were suddenly excited. "Senior Brother Yu is going to make a move!"


    The few Foundation Building Realm cultivators immediately fell silent, tactfully agreeing with Yue Yuefan.


    Seeing everyone''s gaze converging on him, Yu Yuefan waved his sleeve, closing Feng Buping¡¯s eyes. He then looked at Fang Chen. ¡°You¡¯ve killed Junior Brother Feng during my celebration banquet because of a small misunderstanding,¡± he said ¡°I want to know, are you a demonic cultivator?" Before Fang Chen could reply, Yue Yuefan chuckled. "Forget it, you don¡¯t have to answer. You''ll be joining him soon anyway."


    Yue Yuefan¡¯s spiritual energy began to spill outwards, and in an instant, even the Qi Refining Realm cultivators present felt immense pressure weighing down on their chests.


    Even the early-stage Foundation Building cultivators around couldn¡¯t help but feel astonished; they hadn¡¯t expected Yue Yuefan to be this strong. Even though he had just broken through to the Foundation Building Realm, he seemed no weaker than them.


    Fang Chen looked calmly at Yu Yuefan. There were no signs of spiritual energy around him at all, unlike Yue Yuefan. It didn¡¯t seem as though he was about to confront a Foundation Building Realm cultivator.


    Gritting his teeth, Jin Nan swooped in to stand in between the two, his back to Yue Yuefan."Daoist Fang Chen, can you give me some face? I know you have remarkable backing, but your strength.... You still can''tpare to someone at the Foundation Building Realm. As the saying goes¡ªa wise man never fights when the odds are against him. Why don¡¯t you listen to me this time?"


    <i>Daoist... Fang Chen?</i>


    The expressions of the many people around shifted.


    The sixth princess stared nkly at the man wearing a silver mask. He¡¯s Fang Chen? Grand Xia¡¯s Fang Chen?


    Elder Su, Fire Cloud Immortal, and Daoist Ya, who had all once been to Grand Xia, looked at each other in astonishment.


    <i>Could it be a coincidence? Simr names?</i>


    Although the Fang Chen they knew had a remarkable background, his actual strength wasn¡¯t really all that high. How could he have suddenly be the Qingzhou Sword Sect Leader?


    Moreover, they¡¯d heard that the current Qingzhou Sword Sect Master had killed ate-stage Foundation Building Realm cultivator, which didn''t match what they knew about Fang Chen.


    "Elder Jin Nan, who is this Daoist?"


    Jin Nan was astonished to hear that, and he turned to look at them. "Don''t you know? He is Daoist Fang. We met him in Grand Xia."


    Everyone was dumbfounded to hear that.


    <i>How could it be him?!</i>


    Recalling one point, Xia Yu took a cold breath. He turned to the two beside him and they all saw the shock in each other''s eyes. The way Fang Chen killed Feng Buping... it felt very familiar; they had seen it once, in that ce!


    "This doesn''t make any sense..." said the sixth princess under her breath.


    It was then that Pancake Zhang suddenly left the side of Elder Su and walked up to Fang Chen. With sped hands, he bowed. "Zhang Xiaoke pays respects to you, my lord."


    "Isn''t that Elder Su''s promising new disciple?"


    "He knows him, too?"


    "What¡¯s he doing? Even if he knows him, he can¡¯t go greeting him right now!¡±


    Whispers erupted among the guests.


    Elder Su furrowed her brow even more, but she didn''t say anything. Meanwhile, Yan Ruyue beside her seemed lost in thought.


    "How could it be him...?" murmured Daoist Ya.


    Looking at Pancake Zhang for a moment, a faint smile appeared at the corner of Fang Chen¡¯s lips. "Silly child,¡± he called. ¡°Why would you let everyone learn that you know me in this situation?"


    Zhang Xiaoke smiled. "I am delighted to see you here. If I can join hands with you to face the enemy today, I will have no regrets even in death."


    The faces of Zhong Yue and the other two froze. The genius Spirit Beast Valley had just recruited was willing to stand against the Heavenly Southern Sect with their leader? That was tantamount to betraying the Spirit Beast Valley! They had never heard of such a thing ever happening in the empire before!


    This guy had just stepped onto the first stage of the Qi Refining Realm, yet he had not only almost defected from his sect, but he had also dared to oppose the Heavenly Southern Sect!


    Everyone suddenly swiveled their heads to look at Elder Su subconsciously.


    Elder Su¡¯s face grew uglier by the second. She red at Zhang Xiaoke hotly. "If youe back right this second, I will pretend I didn¡¯t hear what you just said.¡±


    Zhang Xiaoke looked at Elder Su, his smile apologetic. "Master, my life was given by my lord. I can only return it to him if need be,¡± he said. ¡°You¡¯ve always taken good care of me back at the sect¡ªwhich I am eternally grateful to you for. I hope we can be master and disciple in the next life too.¡±


    The sixth princess was stunned. Why... would a street vendor from Grand Xia be willing to face death with Fang Chen?

 Chapter 282: Try and Kill Me?

    <h4>Chapter 282: Try and Kill Me?</h4>


    Elder Su saw the strong determination in Zhang Xiaoke''s eyes. She remained silent for a moment, then finally said softly, "From today onwards, you are no longer a disciple of the Spirit Beast Valley, and I am no longer your master."


    Zhang Xiaoke sped his hands in salute.


    Yu Yuefan smiled. "Elder Su, this decision is most wise." He then looked toward Fang Chen and the rest. "None of them will leave Heavenly Southern Sect alive today." Yu Yuefan turned to Jin Nan now, a smile on his face. "Elder Jin Nan, I know you fear whoever is behind him, but you can¡¯t underestimate our sect either."


    Exasperated, Jin Nan sighed, waved his hand, and stood aside without saying another word. "I''m not getting involved in any of this."


    Everyone knew that what would follow would be an extremely exciting battle. It was just unknown how many moves the new sect master of Qingzhou Sword would be able to take from Yu Yuefan before he fell.


    When Daoist Ya and the others learned that this was Fang Chen, their anticipation died down; there wasn¡¯t much to watch if this wasn¡¯t the sword cultivator, after all.


    They were sure that Fang Chen was in the Qi Refining Realm. What other oue coulde out of a battle between someone at the Qi Refining Realm and another at the Foundation Building Realm?


    Yu Yuefan smiled. "Will you try to kill me with your sword the same way you killed Junior Brother Feng?"


    "Yes." Fang Chen nodded with a smile.


    Little Sword turned into a lightning bolt and shot toward Yu Yuefan.


    Faint disdain appeared in Yu Yuefan''s eyes as majestic spiritual energy surged out, condensing into a barrier around him.


    Little Sword easily pierced through the barrier and plunged into Yu Yuefan.


    <i>Puff!</i>


    Yu Yuefan¡¯s face contorted with astonishment and disbelief as a bright red flower of blood bloomed out of his back, it exploded with a stter, dying the floor red.


    Leaving, Little Sword made a turnaround and pierced into Yu Yuefan once more, from the back.


    <i>Splurt!</i>


    Another flower of crimson rose.


    Yu Yuefan tottered in disbelief, the astonishment on his face even more palpable by the second.


    Little Sword weaved in and out of him, as though it was a needle sewing a tattered garment.


    As it continued to drill in and out of his body, the barrier formed by his rich and majestic spiritual energy became as fragile as tofu.


    The disciples of the Heavenly Southern Sect were dumbfounded.


    "Senior Brother Yu!"


    Zhang Xiaoke¡¯s eyes flickered with horror. "This..."


    Ever since he became a cultivator, Zhang Xiaoke had gained a good understanding of how powerful Foundation Building cultivators were¡ªto him, one became a true Immortal when they entered the Foundation Building Realm.


    He had even mentally prepared himself to die in battle alongside Fang Chen. But it came as a huge surprise to him that even a Foundation Building Realm cultivator was powerless in front of Fang Chen!


    Xia Yu let out a gasp. "How¡¯s this possible?" He stared nkly at the dying Yu Yuefan, wondering if he had fallen into an illusion of sorts.


    <i>Was all of this real?</i>


    The spiritual energy barrier of Yu Yuefan, the distinguished senior brother of the Heavenly Southern Sect, and the most talented junior of the empire, didn¡¯t stand a chance against Fang Chen¡¯s sword?


    Xia Yu wasn¡¯t the only one stunned, all of the Foundation Building Realm cultivators around carried simr faces full of shock, astonishment, and disbelief.


    The sixth king¡¯s face had turned somber a long time ago. When his eyes drifted from Yu Yuefan to Fang Chen, who was standing calmly with his hands sped behind his back, terror shed within them.


    Daoist Ya¡¯s hands and feet had turned ice cold. "Is he... is he really that sword cultivator?" He was just as confused as the rest.


    Beads of sweat rolled down the sixth princess¡¯s forehead. "Fang Chen is this powerful?"


    If it weren''t for the fact that Pancake Zhang had just spoken with Fang Chen, she would have really doubted whether the man in the silver mask in front of her was really Fang Chen!


    The most shocked of them all was Jin Nan. When he and Abbess Zhu Yue teamed up to kill a Spirit Blood Sect Foundation Building Realm cultivator, Fang Chen helped them, but he didn¡¯t do anything out of the ordinary.


    If there was anything that slightly surprised him at the time, it was the fact that Fang Chen had been able to find where the corpse bead was inside the Spirit Blood Sect cultivator. Other than that, Fang Chen didn''t seem much different from an ordinary Qi Refining Realm cultivator in his eyes.


    But now Fang Chen¡¯s sword was easily able to pierce through a Foundation Building expert¡¯s spiritual energy barrier? How was that possible?


    All of that happened in the blink of an eye. It wasn''t until Yu Yuefan uttered a painful grunt that the Foundation Building Realm cultivators of the Heavenly Southern Sect finally reacted.


    "Stop it!" shouted a Foundation Building Realm cultivator as he immediately summoned his treasure to attack Fang Chen.


    A trace of silver light shed and the cultivator¡¯s treasure shattered into pieces, and he spurted out a mouthful of blood from the damage to his treasure. His face contorted in pain.


    Little Sword returned and hovered in the air in front of Fang Chen. There wasn¡¯t a single stain of blood on its de.


    Yu Yuefan fell to the ground, pale. His body and face were covered in a mixture of sweat and blood. He cut an incredibly sorry figure. His lips quivered from the pain as hey sprawled, his frame littered with dozens of open wounds.


    The disciples around were beside themselves with shock. Was that still their eldest senior brother?


    Fang Chen smiled. "I thought you were going to kill me?"


    "<i>Pfft!</i>" Yu Yuefan spurted out a mouthful of blood, his eyes full of resentment as he stared at Fang Chen, but within that resentment, there was also a hint of confusion.


    <i>How?</i>


    He was clearly a Foundation Building Realm cultivator, so why could Fang Chen''s sword break through his spiritual barrier so easily?


    Yan Ruyue looked at the once proud, but now broken, genius, knowing that he had lost all hope of reaching higher realms. Even if he didn¡¯t die today, he¡¯d probably end up stuck at the early stage of Foundation Building Realm for the rest of his life.


    "Yu Yuefan has been crippled...."


    With that in mind, Yan Ruyue¡¯s eyes turned to Fang Chen, awe-filled.


    "Breaking through allws with a sword...¡± muttered Daoist Ya. ¡°He¡¯s really a sword cultivator...."


    <i>A sword cultivator?</i>


    Those who didn''t know suddenly had a change in their expressions, as though they had been struck by a thought, a thought that left their hearts chilly.


    <i>Yes! A sword cultivator!</i>


    Daoist Ya''s words were like a revtion, finally making them understand why they felt such suffocating pressure from Fang Chen''s sword!


    That was the sword of a sword cultivator!


    A sword capable of breaking through allws!


    "May I ask if you are the sword cultivator who killed the lord of Passing Dragon Ind with a single sword strike in Spirit Void City?" asked a Foundation Building Realm cultivator as he sped his fist, his face somber.


    "Killed the Passing Dragon Ind Lord with a single sword strike?"


    Many Foundation Building Realm cultivators were shocked. When did such a major event ever happen? Why hadn¡¯t they heard of this before?


    Who was the Passing Dragon Ind Lord? That was ate-stage Foundation Building Realm cultivator from the Sea Dragon Sect, an unparalleled powerhouse!


    Gritting his teeth, Zhong Yue thought, <i>Fuck it, I''ll just go all in!</i>


    Knowing that today he could only advance or retreat with Fang Chen, he said in a loud, deep voice, "Yes, our sect leader has killed the Passing Dragon Ind Lord with a single sword strike!"


    The za fell silent.


    Eyes filled with astonishment, fear, and shock converged on Fang Chen. The others were still okay, but for the likes of Elder Su and the rest who had met Fang Chen before, besides being shocked, they were also confused.


    How was it possible that Fang Chen had gained such extraordinary abilities since they hadst met him?


    They couldn¡¯t help but think back to that day when that Daoist appeared and suppressed them all with his aura alone, to the point where they couldn¡¯t even raise their heads.


    "So his inheritance... was that of a sword cultivator...."


    "He killed... ate-stage Foundation Building Realm cultivator?"


    Yu Yuefan stared at Fang Chen in a daze, then suddenly burst into madughter. "You killed the Passing Dragon Ind Lord?! Did you know that Immortal Sea Dragon is here today?!"


    Upon his reminder, everyone immediately remembered the face. Their expressions changed rapidly. Even if the sword cultivator was strong, he probably wasn''t a match for the Golden Core Realm ancestor, right?

 Chapter 283: You Dare Not

    <h4>Chapter 283: You Dare Not</h4>


    The Heavenly Southern Sect disciples had been disoriented after Yu Yuefan¡¯s defeat and the destruction of the Foundation Building Elder¡¯s treasure, but Yu Yuefan¡¯s invigorated madughter lifted up their spirits a bit.


    Yes! Immortal Sea Dragon was here, and he and Yu Yuefan knew each other, too. He had even especiallye here to congratte Yu Yuefan on his breakthrough. Not to mention, the sword cultivator had killed the Passing Dragon Ind Lord, so Immortal Sea Dragon had every reason to intervene!


    The Heavenly Southern Sect disciples breathed a sigh of relief, and their gazes toward Fang Chen weren¡¯t as fearful as before.


    The sixth king¡¯s face was somber. He really secretly hoped that Immortal Sea Dragon would appear and suppress Fang Chen. Only then would he not have to pay the price for his recent disrespect.


    A thought suddenly hit Zhong Yue and the others. Normally, Immortal Sea Dragon might¡¯ve not pursued the matter of their sect leader killing one of his Ind Lords because of his mysterious background, but since there were a lot of Foundation Building Realm cultivators here today, Immortal Sea Dragon might be forced into making a move on the ount of his sect¡¯s reputation!


    "Little Fan, do you now understand that there will always be someone better, someone who¡¯s higher?"


    A middle-aged man approached slowly and waved his hand, sending out a surge of spiritual energy to stabilize Yu Yuefan''s injuries.


    This was the ancestor of the Heavenly Southern Sect¡ªa grandpletion Foundation Building Realm powerhouse!


    The expressions of the crowd changed, and the disciples of the Heavenly Southern Sect immediately sped their fists in salute.


    "We pay our respects to you, Ancestor!"


    Yu Yuefan''s expression fluctuated, and he finally bowed his head. "I¡¯ve shamed you today, Ancestor."


    The Heavenly Southern Sect ancestor chuckled lightly. "To know shame is the beginning of courage. It''s also a process of growth. I hope that you won''t let this defeat affect your state of mind."


    ¡°I will remember your advice," said Yu Yuefan in a low voice.


    Nodding with a smile, the ancestor turned to Fang Chen and said, "Thank you, young friend, for showing mercy."


    "No need to thank me,¡± replied Fang Chen offhandedly. ¡°Just now, it was Elder Jin Nan who asked me to hold back. Since Elder Jin Nan is an old acquaintance of mine, I decided not to kill him."


    Everyone¡¯s expressions stiffened.


    Aplicated look remained on Jin Nan¡¯s face.


    The Heavenly Southern Sect ancestor was taken aback by Fang Chen¡¯s response. After a moment, he sighed bitterly. "It seems that all sword cultivators are really cut from the same cloth."


    A disciple in the Foundation Building Realm of the Heavenly Southern Sect bowed. "Ancestor, he killed one of our disciples and injured Yu Yuefan. Please put an end to his arrogance!"


    The other disciples followed suit, sping their fists. "Please, Ancestor, put an end to his arrogance!"


    Their voices echoed like rolling thunder.


    The disciples had expected that the ancestor would make a move on the sword cultivator, but to their surprise and confusion, he actually chided them. "Nonsense!" he said. "He spared Little Fan''s life. This matter is already settled. Stop trying to add fuel to the fire!"


    The disciples were astounded.


    The ancestor turned to Fang Chen again and smiled. "What do you say, young friend, why don¡¯t we bury the hatchet?"


    ncing at Yu Yuefan, Fang Chen showed a smile. "Then let¡¯s leave it at that."


    Yu Yuefan found it hard to believe. ¡°Ancestor...¡±


    ¡°Whatever happens next is none of our concern. He still needs to resolve his issues with Immortal Sea Dragon,¡± added the ancestor.


    "No wonder!"


    Everyone was suddenly enlightened. Their ancestor had basically removed Heavenly Southern Sect from the equation, which meant that even if Immortal Sea Dragon killed the sword cultivator, it would have nothing to do with them and they¡¯d have achieved their goal all the same!


    <i>That¡¯s a grandpletion Foundation Building Realm cultivator for you! He has lived long enough to see things more clearly, really a sly, wily old fox!</i>


    Yu Yuefan''s eyes brightened, and he remained silent, his gaze toward Fang Chen carried a hint of a smirk.


    It was then that a voice suddenly sounded from up above. "Was it you who killed my fifth-generation grandson at sea?"


    Everyone whipped their heads up to see a figure in the sky, coldly overlooking the za. It was Immortal Sea Dragon.


    <i>Fifth generation grandson!</i>


    So that was the root cause of the enmity between the Sea Dragon Sect and that sword cultivator!


    Everyone gasped in shock.


    "That was the Sea Dragon Sect¡¯s young sect master! He killed him just like that?!"


    Fang Chen smiled faintly. "That¡¯s right, I killed him."


    "Did you also kill the Lord of Green Mountain Ind, Xue Fenggui?"


    "Yes, I killed him."


    "What about the Passing Dragon Ind Lord?"


    "Yes, I killed him as well."


    With each question and answer, everyone felt a chill run down their spine.


    The sword cultivator before them had already killed so many people from the Sea Dragon Sect, and each of them was quite the name, too!


    Zhang Xiaoke looked at Fang Chen''s profile, excitement shing in his eyes.<i> My lord¡¯s journey... seems to have been quite exciting.</i>


    "How many Sea Dragon Sect disciples did he actually kill..." The sixth princess felt incredulous, and memories of the past flooded her mind. When he was in his teens, he roamed freely in the capital of Grand Xia. In his twenties, he dominated and turned over the cultivation world. Even she found it too unbelievable. How could someone from Grand Xia have amounted to so much?


    ¡°You''re quite honest. Aren''t you afraid I''ll just kill you right here and now? Although sword cultivators are strong, they still have to abide by the rules of heaven and earth. Everything in the end falls back to one¡¯s cultivation,¡± said Immortal Sea Dragon indifferently. "If I want to kill you, I won''t need more than one move."


    No one thought he was bragging.


    Even though Fang Chen was strong, facing a Golden Core Realm cultivator was still far beyond his reach.


    <i>Please give him a way out, Sect Master!</i>


    Zhong Yue and the other two begged in their hearts, sweating profusely. If Fang Chen died, they would die too!


    They hoped Fang Chen could give Immortal Sea Dragon a way to de-escte the situation, perhaps they could be spared from death today!


    Fang Chen''s lips rose. "You wouldn¡¯t dare."


    Pin drop silence.


    The hearts of Zhong Yue and the other two were filled with thoughts of death, and they began to sweat buckets.


    Strangely enough, Zhang Xiaoke, who was only at the Qi Refining Realm, showed a smile full of confidence after hearing Fang Chen¡¯s words.


    His confidence had nothing to do with his strength, nor did it have anything to do with whether he lived or died¡ªit was pure confidence in his lord.


    <i>I bet those guys from the Hidden Courtyard would be so jealous if they knew about my experience with the lord today, right? Hahaha!</i>


    <i>Even half foot into the grave you''re still acting all tough! </i>Yu Yuefan red fiercely at Fang Chen, feeling his anxiety bubble up. Why wasn¡¯t Immortal Sea Dragon making a move already? Why was he allowing Fang Chen to ride on his high horse for so long?


    Elder Su and the other Foundation Building cultivators looked at each other and then silently retreated. They withdrew a hundred feet away in a split second, obviously afraid of being caught in the crossfire.


    Only Fang Chen and his fivepanions remained. The current situation brought immense pressure on Zhong Yue and the other two, causing them to sweat profusely.


    Just as everyone thought Immortal Sea Dragon was about to make a move, he simply smiled calmly. "It¡¯s really not worth it to offend the sword cultivator behind you for a mere Foundation Building Realm cultivator."


    Everyone thought their ears were ying tricks on them.


    "What...?"


    Immortal Sea Dragon... was actually afraid?!

 Chapter 284: Cunning and Devious

    <h4>Chapter 284: Cunning and Devious</h4>


    Yu Yuefan''s face turned incredibly grim. If Immortal Sea Dragon wasn¡¯t going to make a move, wouldn''t he have been humiliated for nothing? If this was the end of the matter, then from now on, all the cultivators in the empire would know that the esteemed senior brother, the eldest disciple of Heavenly Southern Sect, had been effortlessly defeated on his own turf!


    The sixth king sighed. <i>This is getting a bit troublesome, </i>he thought.


    But it was still only a bit of trouble, he wasn¡¯t exactly too worried about the swordsman; the imperial family wasn¡¯t to be trifled with, too. They had the backing of a fifth-tier empire, so if the sword cultivator wanted to find trouble, he was pretty confident he could deal with him.


    "If you¡¯re not making a move, then I''ll have to take my leave," said Fang Chen with a faint smile, then re-invited, "You only have one chance. Wouldn''t you like to reconsider?"


    The crowd stared nkly at Fang Chen, confusion rising in their hearts. Were all sword cultivators this arrogant? Wasn¡¯t provoking Golden Core Realm cultivators in madness?


    "No wonder they say sword cultivators are lunatics. Better not provoke them; they''ve trained themselves silly!" transmitted Daoist Ya to Fire Cloud Immortal.


    Fire Cloud Immortal transmitted back, "You can¡¯t be sure that he¡¯d trained himself silly. Maybe he¡¯s so audacious because he has a trump card up his sleeve? I think that¡¯s why Immortal Sea Dragon is treading carefully here, he might be worried about that.¡±


    Daoist Ya came to a realization. "That might actually be possible!"


    Watching from the side, Xia Yu''s expression wasplicated. Who would¡¯ve thought that, one day, someone like this would rise from Grand Xia¡ªsomeone who could throw his own weight around in the Heavenly Southern Sect''s territory, humiliating a Golden Core Realm cultivator in front of hundreds of Foundation Building Realm cultivators of the empire.


    Zhong Yue and hispany went stiff, stiffer than ever, and cold sweat slid down their cheeks and down to the floor, forming little sshes.


    Not only did their sect leader not offer a way out for the Golden Core Realm ancestor, but he had even ced him in such a precarious position! How could a dignified Golden Core cultivator bear such humiliation?


    "You can leave. If I said I won''t make a move, then I won''t," replied Immortal Sea Dragon with a thin smile.


    The crowd was secretly horrified. Immortal Sea Dragon was really, really worried about whoever was behind this sword cultivator!


    Even though it was somewhat unexpected, upon careful consideration, it seemed quite normal. If it were them, even if they were at the Golden Core, they wouldn''t want to provoke sword cultivators, too. What if the swordsman had a Golden Core Realm cultivator behind him?


    Chuckling lightly, Fang Chen beckoned for everyone to leave. "Let''s go," he said. Zhong Yue and the other two, along with Zhang Xiaoke, quickly followed suit.


    Elder Su watched with mixed feelings. She had already guessed that the rtionship between Zhang Xiaoke and Fang Chen was not simple; perhaps he hadn¡¯t just been a pancake seller back at Grand Xia.


    The surrounding cultivators made way for them, not daring to block their path. Their eyes followed Fang Chen and the others, watching as they were about to leave the sect.


    Yu Yuefan''s turned uglier with every step they took away.


    The Foundation Building Realm cultivators of the Heavenly Southern Sect exchanged nces and then looked at the ancestor of the Heavenly Southern Sect. However, he was as calm as ever, as if he truly had no intention of intervening in this matter, just watching Fang Chen leave.


    Just when Fang Chen and his group were about to step through the mountain gate, they heard Immortal Sea Dragonugh. "Young friend, please wait a minute."


    Fang Chen halted his steps. Zhong Yue and the other two broke out in cold sweat, on edge. Zhang Xiaoke stopped, wearing a smile on his face, unafraid of what was about toe.


    Few feared death within the Hidden Courtyard¡ªmost of them had brushed shoulders with death, many times at that.


    The expressions of the crowd changed slightly.


    Yu Yuefan''s eyes lit up. "Is Immortal Sea Dragon having second thoughts?" When he saw the smile at the corner of the ancestor¡¯s mouth, a thought suddenly hit him. <i>It had all been a test! They were testing the swordsman, probing if he really had a trump card! If the sword cultivator really had a surefire trump card up his sleeve, why would he choose to leave instead of using it?</i>


    Fang Chen pivoted around. "You¡¯re having second thoughts?"


    "I suddenly feel that the grudge between us runs deep and needs to be resolved." Immortal Sea Dragon chuckled. "How about this, if you can withstand one strike from me, I''ll let you leave..." He paused, then added, "Otherwise, you die."


    A chill ran down everyone¡¯s hearts. Immortal Sea Dragon was about to make a move!


    Fang Chen chuckled lightly. "All of you, wait here." He then retraced his steps until he was about a hundred zhang away from Immortal Sea Dragon. "Go ahead, I happen to want to see whether Golden Core cultivators are as earth-shattering as rumored, too.¡±


    Immortal Sea Dragon didn¡¯t waste any extra words, and he swished his sleeve. The metal energy in the air instantly condensed, forming a spear thatnded beside Fang Chen''s feet thunderously.


    The spear was only three inches away from Fang Chen, and the sharpness it emitted made his skin tingle. That was simr to the Five Elements Technique, but it wasn¡¯t like anything he had seen the Five Elements Technique conjure; the weapon formed from Immortal Sea Dragon¡¯s metal energy was no less powerful than an ordinary mid-grade, yellow-rank treasure.


    Fang Chen¡¯s lips curled. The man was testing him. Really, everyone who was able to cultivate the Golden Core Realm was both cunning and cautious.


    <i>Little Sword, can my second-rank sword body withstand this strike?</i>


    <i>Not really, no. But you won¡¯t die.</i>


    <i>What if we were at the third rank?</i>


    <i>We would be able to take it, but we¡¯ll be left slightly injured.</i>


    Fang Chen nodded.


    For an ordinary Qi Refining Realm cultivator, this strike would undoubtedly result in their doom. But the fact that Little Sword said it couldn''t withstand it but he wouldn''t die was enough proof of how remarkable the second rank of the sword body was. If he was at the Golden Core Realm and his sword body was at the third or fourth rank, he¡¯d probably be able to take someone like Immortal Sea Dragon easily.


    Immortal Sea Dragon eyed Fang Chen from up above. "Why aren¡¯t you making your move? Perhaps you think you''ll die?"


    "Stop probing me. If you want to even the score, be decisive about it. Being timid and hesitant will only leave you aughingstock," said Fang Chen.


    The sixth princess''s expression wasplicated. <i>This guy hasn''t changed one bit!</i>


    Back in Grand Xia, except for being slightly more polite when facing her father, Fang Chen treated everyone just like this. Even today, in the cultivation world, not only did he not show fear in front of a Golden Core cultivator, but he acted as if he was the one at the Golden Core Realm!


    While the sixth princess found his attitude irritating, she couldn''t help but admire him for it, for it was something she couldn¡¯t do herself.


    Immortal Sea Dragon silently watched Fang Chen, then suddenly chuckled. In an instant, four golden giants, each about fifteen meters tall, appeared and circled Fang Chen. The giants were constructed entirely of metal element energy. Wielding long des in their hands, they shed down at Fang Chen from all directions.


    The power of their strikes was terrifying. Even a small hill might be split into four pieces by their des!


    The crowd gasped in shock.


    The metal element was the most difficult element to control of the five. To most of those here, forming a sword or a de wasn¡¯t much of an issue¡ªbut to condense golden armored giants, that was a different story altogether. And they couldn''t do one, much less four at once!


    Most cultivators were only able to learn the earth and water elements in their lifetimes, as most neither had the talent nor the time to learn and practice them. Yet, Immortal Sea Dragon had been able to effortlessly condense four golden armored giants, which showed just how vast the gap between Golden Core Realm and Foundation Building Realm cultivators was.


    Any one of these golden armored giants could easily annihte any Foundation Building Realm cultivator here, including the sects behind them!

 Chapter 285: Forget It, You Dont Need to Say Anything

    <h4>Chapter 285: Forget It, You Don''t Need to Say Anything</h4>


    Fang Chen was calm andposed in the face of the four swishing des as they hurtled down overhead, with no fear in his eyes.


    Everyone was astonished to see his calm demeanor.


    What kind of trump card could he have that allowed him to remain so calm in the face of a lethal attack?


    "<i>Sigh.</i>"


    Suddenly, a figure appeared beside Fang Chen. With a wave of his sleeve, the des came to a stop, and the giants began to disintegrate back into pure metal energy and dispersed back into the air.


    The one who appeared was an old Daoist. He had the air of an Immortal, and his eyes seemed amicable but authoritative.


    The crowd was stunned. They had no idea who this old Daoist was, but judging by how casually he had neutralized Immortal Sea Dragon¡¯s attack, he had to be at thete-stage Golden Core Realm at the very least!


    The smile on the ancestor of Heavenly Southern Sect¡¯s face gradually faded, reced by a solemn expression.


    Immortal Sea Dragon''s expression shifted erratically. He watched the old Daoist closely without saying anything.


    Daoist Ya and Immortal Fire Cloud exchanged nces in shock.


    <i>So he really had a trump card!</i>


    They had seen that old Daoist back in Grand Xia before!


    Elder Jin Nan''s face fell, fear rising in his eyes.


    <i>''Immortal Sea Dragon has made a bad move,'' </i>thought some of the Foundation Building Realm in unison.


    The way Fang Chen had been acting had been a clear testament that he had something to rely on, so if they were in Immortal Sea Dragon¡¯s shoes, they wouldn¡¯t have made a move.


    "Is he the Daoist that Elder Jin Nan mentioned, the one with unfathomable cultivation he had seen in Grand Xia?"


    Yue Yuefan¡¯s face turned red with embarrassment! The opponent hade here prepared! He had probably thought of him as an ant when he stood up to him!


    Looking at Fang Chen, Daoist Yun He smirked. "How did you know that I left something on you, kid?"


    Fang Chen didn''t dare to mention that he could sense that special energy inside him, so he lied, "Just a guess."


    "A guess?¡± Daoist Yun He frowned. ¡°You do realize that if your guess was wrong, you¡¯d be dead, right?"


    The two conversed, ignoring Immortal Sea Dragon and everyone else.


    "Walking the immortal path means one should know to treat life and death lightly," Fang Chen said with a smile.


    <i>Treating life and death lightly?</i> The crowd was slightly taken aback, pondering over his words.


    After a few moments of contemtion, someone couldn''t help but smile bitterly. This was easier said than done; most of those around here treated their own lives as their most valuable asset while everything was only secondary.


    Daoist Yun He looked at Fang Chen and suddenlyughed. "Good, I was worried that, while you may be talented, youcked the heart for cultivation. But now I can rest at ease,¡± he said. ¡°Many people had to ovee their ¡®Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions¡¯ before they were able to understand this principle; cultivation is inevitably fraught with peril. If one fears death, what right do they have to stand up against the heavens and earth?"


    Daoist Yun He eyes scanned the za ¡®till they came to rest on Immortal Sea Dragon. "Young friend, what issues do you have with my sect¡¯s disciple? Please exin in detail."


    Many gasped in shock, and their hearts began to pound in their chests.


    <i>Young friend?</i>


    The fact that he was addressing a Golden Core Realm cultivator in this manner indicated that he had to have been living for a very, very long time. His tone and confidence probably meant that he was above the Golden Core Realm, even! And the realm above Golden Core was the Nascent Soul Ream, a realm even Foundation Building Realm cultivators dare not dream of!


    Immortal Sea Dragon fell silent for a moment, then began, "Actually¡ª"


    "You know what, you don''t need to say anything," said Daoist Yun He as he swished his sleeve.


    Immortal Sea Dragon seemed to have been struck by an invisible force and was sted through the air, bing a little dot far in the sky until he disappeared.


    "..."


    The crowd went nk.


    A Golden Core Realm cultivator was sted away just like that?


    They didn''t know if Immortal Sea Dragon was dead or alive, but they were very sure that he had to be in very bad shape.


    Daoist Yun looked at Fang Chen. "You have any more enemies around here?"


    Everyone¡¯s faces tensed.


    The sixth king instinctively lowered his head.


    The Heavenly Southern Sect ancestor stared into the distance.


    Yu Yuefan seemed to have already fainted from his heavy injuries and hey motionless with his eyes closed.


    "I think... that should be all," said Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen heard Daoist Yun He transmit a message directly to him now. ¡°<i>That''s good then. I''ve exhausted myst trace of spiritual energy on you. If you meet with any issues from now on, you''ll have to resolve them on your own. I see that you''ve already condensed eleven immortal veins, so it''s about time you set off for the Central Continent.</i>"


    With that, Daoist Yun He began to dissipate, and the little particles rushed into Fang Chen¡¯s mind, forming a map.


    Fang Chen couldn''t help but marvel at his. This was likely just a projection formed by spiritual energy the real Daoist Yun He had left inside him. But it was so real and lifelike, that it could even easily defeat a Golden Core Realm cultivator! Fang Chen had figured that Daoist Yun He might have been at the Nascent Soul Realm in the past, but now, he couldn¡¯t help but feel that he was even stronger than that, perhaps even stronger than Supreme Immortal Pudu!


    "He¡¯s gone?"


    The crowd was puzzled, but they all breathed a sigh of relief nheless. They really couldn¡¯t fare well in the face of such a powerhouse.


    Zhong Yue and the other two¡¯s knees had stopped knocking a while ago, and they now stood upright, their chests all puffed up. What could they possibly be afraid of with their sect leader¡¯s backing? They could unt their weight all around the empire with no problem!


    After today, the name "Qingzhou Sword Sect" would likely be a symbol of power in the empire, even the imperial family wouldn¡¯t dare provoke them from now on.


    The three looked at Fang Chen with sincere admiration. No wonder their sect leader wasn''t afraid at all. It turned out that in his eyes, Immortal Sea Dragon was just a joke!


    "Elder Su, quickly call your disciple back!" Immortal Fire Cloud transmitted to Elder Su with excitement.


    Elder Su wore a face filled with mixed feelings, but in the end, she didn¡¯t say anything.


    The Heavenly Southern Sect¡¯s ancestor was the first to speak, cutting the awkward silence. "Was that... was that your master?" he asked with a sped fist.


    "Not exactly." Fang Chen shook his head. "Senior Yun He wanted to take me in as his closed-door disciple, but I declined."


    The listeners were stunned.


    He declined? He declined to be the disciple of such a powerful figure?


    Fang Chen scanned the crowd with his eyes. "Since Immortal Sea Dragon didn¡¯t want to let the matter rest, I¡¯m going to be paying his sect a visit. Who wants toe along?"


    Zhong Yue and the other two Elders¡¯ eyes lit up with excitement. <i>Paying the Sea Dragon Sect a visit!</i>


    That¡¯s a Golden Core Realm cultivator they were talking about, the resources in the Sea Dragon Sect must be extremely abundant!


    The Foundation Building Realm cultivators present were shocked, but upon careful consideration, following Fang Chen would not only bring them great benefits but also establish a rtionship with him, which was extremely advantageous! As for Immortal Sea Dragon... they had already stopped thinking about him. If he was smart, he should be hiding somewhere right now. He shouldn''t show his face in the empire for the rest of his life.


    The sixth king was the first to speak, his tone devoid of any sign of scorn or jest¡ªit was quite oily and respectful, even. "Daoist Fang, may I join you?"


    "Anyone who wishes to tag along is free to do so,¡± said Fang Chen with a smile. ¡°Do you all know the White Harbor Port? Let''s all meet there in seven days.¡± After a pause, he nced at Zhang Xiaoke. "Why aren¡¯t you going back to your master? She was just trying to protect you earlier."


    Zhang Xiaoke smiled awkwardly and looked at Elder Su. "Master, I..."


    "Come over here," said Elder Su with a relieved smile.


    Wasn¡¯t having a disciple from Grand Xia equivalent to building a bridge with Fang Chen?

 Chapter 286: 12th Stage of The Qi Refining Realm!

    <h4>Chapter 286: 12th Stage of The Qi Refining Realm!</h4>


    Back at the Qingzhou Sword Sect, both Ye Wenxiu and Liu Mu were waiting anxiously.


    "Senior Brother Liu, do you think that master will be met with any danger?¡± asked Ye Wenxiu. He was sitting on a stone stool in a small courtyard. In front of him was Liu Mu, who was in the horse stance, not too far away.


    Before Liu Mu had a chance to answer, Ye Wenxiu murmured, "Master should be alright, no? He was even able to y ate-stage Foundation Building Realm cultivator with a single sword strike."


    Liu Mu''s legs were trembling, and beads of sweat trickled down his forehead. Before long, he stood up straight and sighed. He then picked up a branch and wrote on the ground: ¡®<i>Yes, yes, master will be fine.¡¯ </i>


    Ye Wenxiu let out a sigh of relief, then smiled. "Junior Brother Liu, actually, cultivation doesn''t require such strenuous physical training. Only martial artists need to do that,¡± he said. ¡°You don''t have to practice the horse stance. Master will surely teach you a cultivation technique when he¡¯s back so you can start meditating properly.¡±


    <i>¡®Being a little stronger won''t hurt,¡¯</i> wrote Liu Mu, his eyes solemn. Everything he had experienced had nted a seed in his heart: he needed to be stronger! Only by being strong could he not be a burden to Fang Chen. When he was strong enough, he¡¯d be able to shoulder a bit of his lord''s worries.


    ¡°You can actually learn many things from martial artists,¡± a voice suddenly sounded. ¡°A martial artist who has drowned himself in battles for many years has a better battle sense than a cultivator who spent a hundred years in meditation.¡±


    Liu Mu and Ye Wenxiu were surprised to hear a voice, then overjoyed when they realized who it was.


    Ye Wenxiu immediately stood up and bowed. "Master!"


    "Mhm.¡± Fang Chen nodded with a faint smile. ¡°After I am done here, you two will stay and cultivate in the Qingzhou Sword Sect."


    Both of them breathed a sigh of relief.


    Fang Chen smiled and took out his tools and materials and began to craft talismans at the side. At the same time, he multitasked, practicing the water, earth, wood, fire, and metal energies at the same time.


    He hade to learn that the Five Elements Technique was very versatile and that it could prove useful even if one was at the Nascent Soul Realm.


    Doing so many things at once caused his spiritual energy consumption to skyrocket, but it was fine since it was continuously being recovered as he used it.


    Ye Wenxiu and Liu Mu respectfully bowed and left the courtyard.


    ***


    By the time several days had passed, the news spread all around the empire that an earth-shattering event had taken ce and that a mysterious cultivator had defeated Immortal Sea Dragon at the Heavenly Southern Sect.


    It was also said that this mysterious cultivator was suspected to be a senior member of a sect of mysterious sword cultivators!


    In Spirit Void City, within the Ye Family.


    Ye Wenxiu¡¯s father was rushing into the n¡¯s courtyard, his feet scrambling. He was apanied by many of his cousins, all of whom were the backbone of the Ye Family¡¯s second generation. "Father, Father!"


    The Ye Family Head walked out with a furrowed brow. "What''s the matter?"


    Ye Wenxiu¡¯s father was beside himself with excitement as he said, "Father, I¡¯ve received a piece of news that said that Senior, the sword cultivator, hade face to face with Immortal Sea Dragon at the Heavenly Southern Sect!"


    The Ye Family was taken aback. <i>That wasn¡¯t exactly good news. What is he so excited about?</i>


    Ye Wenxiu¡¯s father took a step forward and whispered a few words to the head, causing the head¡¯s face to freeze in shock.


    "If that¡¯s really true then Wenxiu has been blessed with an extraordinary master. My Ye Family is poised for prosperity!" murmured the head.


    "Absolutely!" Ye Wenxiu¡¯s father affirmed firmly. "The news must be true; who would dare spread false rumors about a Golden Core Realm ancestor?"


    The Ye Family Headughed heartily. "Wonderful, wonderful. <i>Hahaha</i>!"


    ***


    Qingzhou Sword Sect.


    The brush in Fang Chen''s hand shattered as his Nine Tribtions Cinnabar and the Thunderous Wood Talisman Paper werepletely exhausted. He waspletely out of materials now, so he had to put crafting Purple Lightning Talismans on hold.


    Fang Chen rubbed his finger over his ring¡ªinside were nearly 200 peak-grade Purple Lightning Talismans, which were worth a lot of spirit stones. He also had about 6000 low-grade spirit stones inside.


    Fang Chen¡¯s eyes were filled with joy. "I can buy a lot of materials with these,¡± he mouthed.


    After several days of uninterrupted cultivation, his spiritual energy reserves had increased significantly.


    "Time for thatst, final step" muttered Fang Chen. He waved his hand gently, creating a golden figure in front of him.


    The golden figure was about ten feet tall and it held a golden de. It was a miniature version of the Immortal Sea Dragon¡¯s giants.


    This was his limit after days of practice. If he wanted to reach the level of Immortal Sea Dragon, he reckoned he¡¯d need to reach the grandplete stage of the Foundation Building Realm, which would take a few years of cultivation, even a decade, maybe


    Fang Chen let out a self-deprecating chuckle. "I''m still far behind inparison to a Golden Core Realm cultivator.¡±


    He began to disperse and conjure the golden figure repeatedly until his spiritual energy waspletely depleted.


    His majestic and profound spiritual energy began to recover. Suddenly, the surrounding spiritual fluctuations began to intensify.


    Fang Chen stood quietly, allowing countless streams of spiritual energy to rush into him, filling his 12th immortal vein. His body was like the vast expanse of heaven and earth, and inside him were eleven fully-formed immortal veins, piercing through it like pirs.


    As the seconds shed by, the cultivators of the Qingzhou Sword Sect sensed the unique spiritual energy fluctuations in the air.


    Zhong Yue had been informing the disciples of key points they needed to know before they set off to the Sea Dragon Sect when he suddenly sensed the spiritual energy fluctuations in the air. "It''sing from the sect leader¡¯s courtyard," he murmured, frowning.


    "These fluctuations...¡± thought one of the 12th stage Qi Refining cultivators aloud, ¡°they seem to be just like the ones we experienced when we entered the 12th stage.¡±


    "They¡¯re somewhat simr, but not quite. The sect leader can¡¯t possibly be at the Qi Refining Realm. We can¡¯t sense his exact cultivation, but he must be at the early Foundation Building Realm at the very least, right?¡± said another cultivator, his tone thoughtful as he looked in the direction of Fang Chen¡¯s courtyard.


    "Perhaps he is cultivating some kind of immortal technique?" suggested Zhong Yue "With his abilities and background, the immortal techniques he knows must far exceed our imagination."


    The others nodded in agreement, thinking that his words were reasonable.


    Sixteen hours passed before themotion Fang Chen was causing subdued.


    The 12th immortal vein had been fully formed.


    Just when Fang Chen was thinking that it was all done, his twelve immortal veins suddenly went through a strange, special change. There was a sh of golden light that circled the immortal veins for a brief moment, and then they all turnedpletely golden in color.


    Fang Chen could feel that his immortal veins were now more resilient than ever¡ªthey were ten times as strong as they previously were.


    Immortal veins represented the foundation, the most crucial aspect for cultivators at the beginning of their cultivation journey¡ªa solid foundation would affect every aspect of a cultivator¡¯s journey, from the quantity and quality of spiritual energy to even the cultivator''s physical body.


    Just by advancing from the eleventh stage to the twelfth stage, Fang Chen¡¯s strength had been bolstered by much more than when he had advanced all the way from the first stage to the eleventh stage! His spiritual energy reserves had increased by more than tenfold.


    ¡°Introduction to the Three Thousand Daos seems to have mentioned this; the foundation forged by the technique could be divided into five types: Copper of Deste, Iron of Strength, Silver of Wealth, Gold of Supremacy, and the Source of Authority," murmured Fang Chen. "Have I reached the fourth stage? That¡¯s pretty excellent¡ªbut if I can forge the fifth type of foundation... that willy an ever better footing for my future cultivation!"

 Chapter 287: Acting on Behalf of the Sea Dragon Sect

    <h4>Chapter 287: Acting on Behalf of the Sea Dragon Sect</h4>


    <i>I better find a way to improve my foundation so I can reach ¡®Source of Authority,¡¯ </i>thought Fang Chen.


    At that moment, Little Sword''s thoughts surged into Fang Chen¡¯s mind. ¡®<i>Little Chen, if you advance to the third rank Sword Body, your foundation will experience a significant boost.¡¯</i>


    Fang Chen was surprised. ¡®<i>Really?¡¯</i>


    <i>¡®The Sword Body is also a type of foundation, so it naturally affects immortal veins,¡¯ </i>answered Little Sword.


    Fang Chen was enlightened. He knew that his rapid progress in cultivation wasrgely due to his rich and powerful divine soul, as he was well aware that his talent wasn¡¯t particrly outstanding. As for why he had been able to umte such a powerful foundation¡ªGold of Supremacy¡ª it was likely because of his second-rank Sword Body.


    "Once I advance to the third rank Sword Body and elevate my foundation to ¡®Source of Authority,¡¯ I¡¯ll make an attempt to break through to the Foundation Building Realm,¡± decided Fang Chen.


    He had been able to do what other cultivators did in decades or centuries in a span of one year, so he had the luxury of time to refine his foundation as much as possible. He could also use this time to start preparing Foundation Building Pills.


    ***


    White Harbor Port.


    The business in the port had been ever so sluggish since the Huang and Liu Families went snooping about the port, with only a few captains with close ties to the Bai Family choosing to dock here; however, the atmosphere at the harbor was different from the usual today. Cultivators from the Huang and Liu families were spread around the port. They¡¯d stop the captains docking here to ask them questions, their faces covered in suspicion.


    Not far away, the Bai Family Head was leading a group of people to meet the heads of the other two families. The atmosphere was so tense, it seemed as though a fight might break out at any moment.


    "Huang Lingyue,¡± barked the Bai Family Head angrily, ¡°what right do you have to blockade my family¡¯s port?"


    Bai Qianqian and the others wore grim expressions.


    Huang Lingyue stood with his hands copsed behind his back. Sweeping his gaze across the port, he chuckled. "I indeed have no right to do that, but I am merely acting on behalf of the Sea Dragon Sect to investigate the background of that sword cultivator."


    The Liu Family Head sneered. "What''s the matter? You don¡¯t want that? Could it be that the rumors are true and your family is involved with that sword cultivator?"


    The people of the Bai Family were furious. That was clearly an attempt to shift me onto them!


    "You can eat randomly, but you can''t say whateveres to your mind. We have no connection with any sword cultivator," replied the Bai Family Head calmly. "I know there''s a swordsman who took your Sapphire Lotus Seed but that''s not a reason for you to take it out on us. I am warning you; you have ten minutes to take your people and leave. You are not allowed to step foot into my territory ever again; otherwise, I¡¯ll have to invite the ancestor out of seclusion!"


    Huang Lingyue suddenlyughed, and the Liu Family Head looked very smug.


    Seeing that, the Bai Family members were puzzled and suspicious. However, suddenly, they all felt two terrifying auras sweep out of their manor, followed by another aura that arose, mingling with the other two auras.


    The Bai Family Head¡¯s expression shifted erratically. "What¡¯s happening...?"


    Huang Lingyue smiled ambiguously. "Didn''t you want to invite your ancestor out of seclusion? You don¡¯t have to trouble yourself anymore; our two ancestors are old acquaintances of his, they have already gone to invite him out."


    The crowd was shocked. "What!"


    "Did those two terrifying aurase from the Foundation Building ancestors of the Huang and Liu families?"


    <i>Could they possibly be here to...?</i>


    The Bai Family Head¡¯s face darkened. "Are you waging war on us?"


    Bai Qianqian and the others sucked in a breath of cold air, their astonishment mixed with anger. Were these two here to exterminate their family?


    "War?¡± Huang Lingyue¡¯s smile was thin, and his eyes narrow. ¡°No, this is merely a hunt for us.¡±


    Suddenly, a figure swooped in from the sky. He staggered his way down for a few steps before he was barely able to steady himself. That figure looked old, withyers of wrinkles on his face. There was a trickle of blood at the corner of his mouth, and he was visibly shocked and furious.


    "Ancestor!"


    The Bai Family Head hurried forward to support him.


    Bai Qianqian and the others felt their hearts sink. Judging from the ancestor¡¯s state, he clearly hadn¡¯t been able to gain the upper hand and even suffered some injuries.


    Two shes of green light followed, and two new figures suddenly appeared, both old. One stood beside Huang Lingyue and the other beside the Liu Family Head.


    "Ancestor," called out the cultivators of the Huang and Liu families to each of their ancestors.


    "Old Huang, Old Liu,¡± called the Bai Family ancestor in a deep voice, wiping the blood at the corner of his mouth. ¡°You¡¯re really burning down all bridges today? It''s one thing for the lower-ranking members of each of our families to fight with each other, but why must ite to this between us three?"


    The Bai Family cultivators'' expressions shifted erratically, fear arising in their hearts. While their ancestor was at the early stage of Foundation Building Realm, the ancestors of the other two families were also at the same stage. A single misstep and their entire family might be exterminated!


    The Huang Family ancestor smiled and said, "Old Bai, it¡¯s not we¡¯re burning down all bridges, but your family has offended the Sea Dragon Sect. If we want to continue operating in this area, it is imperative that we maintain a good rtionship with the Sea Dragon Sect."


    The Liu Family ancestor also had a simr smile, and he added, "Exactly. Although it may seem like this area is under the jurisdiction of the empire, the reality is that the Sea Dragon Sect¡¯s words are thew around here, and they must be followed. If we don¡¯t follow these unspoken rules, we¡¯ll be inviting a painful price onto ourselves.¡±


    The Bai Family''s ancestor fell silent for a moment. Then, he slowly spoke up. "Let me ask you this: if we migrate from here, will you let us be?"


    The Bai Family Head was shocked. "Ancestor?"


    This was the Bai Family¡¯s ancestral site, and it had been passed down from one generation after the other for countless years. The family was able to thrive all these years because of the sea, too.


    Not to mention that all other ces with a bit of spiritualnd or spiritual springs had already been upied by other ns and sects, so where would they be able to find a ce to settle down? If they chose any random ce, then in the long run the family would undoubtedly begin to decline and they¡¯d stop producing cultivators, which would inevitably cut out their bloodline!


    The Bai Family¡¯s ancestor shot the family head a piercing look. "Shut up." He then turned back to the two ancestors.


    "That might¡¯ve been possible if the Sea Dragon Sect wasn¡¯t involved, but they are.... If the Sea Dragon Sect catches wind of us letting you leave, we won¡¯t be able to bear the consequences.¡±


    The Liu Family¡¯s ancestor sighed softly. "You shouldn''t have told that sword cultivator about the Sapphire Lotus Seed in the first ce. This... is actually your own fault."


    The people of the Bai family were furious. They were just using the Sea Dragon Sect as an excuse so they could get rid of their family!


    The captains and merchants around watched with pale faces. One of the more brave captains decided to speak up then. ¡°We were just docking here. W-we have no rtion with the Bai Family. This doesn¡¯t have anything to do with us, does it?¡±


    ncing at him, the Huang Family¡¯s ancestor lightly said, "If you start docking at my and the Liu Family¡¯s port from here on out, then don¡¯t worry, this has nothing to do with you.¡±


    The captains let out breaths of relief.


    The Bai Family Head¡¯s face was dark and gloomy. "So you really won¡¯t be leaving us with a way out? Do you think you won¡¯t be paying a dear price to kill me?"


    "We naturally know that we¡¯ll pay a price, but it doesn¡¯t matter, we can afford to do so,¡± said an ancestor with a chuckle, and then his spiritual energy began to rise. ¡°From this day forward, there won¡¯t be anyone from the Bai Family left alive!"


    Just as two ancestors were about to shoot forth into battle, everyone suddenly heard a shout that made them stop in their tracks. ¡°Any captains heading to the Sea Dragon Sect?¡±


    It was a cultivator at the 12th stage of Qi Refining. He had a group of cultivators following behind him.

 Chapter 288: Who’s This Bigshot?

    <h4>Chapter 288: Who¡¯s This Bigshot?</h4>


    Everyone was taken aback, and they turned to look at the source of the voice. The Huang and Liu family members looked furious. How could anyone be so oblivious as toe here right now to board a ship?


    Huang Lingyue sneered and decided to toy with them. "Yes, we have ships heading to the Sea Dragon Sect right over here. Come over here."


    The neers didn¡¯t seem to know any better as they headed straight toward Huang Lingyue, ignoring whatever was happening.


    Suddenly, everyone couldn¡¯t help but notice that the neers didn¡¯t seem like people from a sect. Instead, they seemed to be from the military!


    At the very rear of them was a middle-aged man who was dressed in a purple python robe. He was taking in the scenery of the port with relish.


    The Huang Family¡¯s ancestor¡¯s brow scrunched up. "Is that the Sixth King?"


    <i>The Sixth King?</i>


    Everyone¡¯s faces turned serious.


    Even though the Heavenly Southern Sect and the Spirit Beast Valley were the top sects in the empire, the strength of the imperial family couldn¡¯t be underestimated either. Not to mention that they had ties with a fifth-tier empire, the imperial family was inherently strong, with at least fifteen Foundation Establishment cultivators within its ranks. Among them, there were two at the grandpletion stage. The rest were at thete, middle, and early stages.


    The Sixth King was an early-stage Foundation Building Realm expert himself. So, not only was he powerful, but he also had a wide range of influence, with numerous experts under hismand.


    "Who are you?" asked the Sixth King casually, ncing at the Huang Family ancestor briefly before his eyes swept over to the other two ancestors.


    The Sixth King didn¡¯t really put any of these people in his eyes. There were just too many of these families scattered around the empire, and, unlike sects, which were able to ensure that at least one Foundation Building Realm cultivator could rise with the help of their inheritance every generation, many of these families would usually die out with the years, falling into obscurity.


    Huang Lingyue quickly wiped away the smirk off his face as he bowed and lowered his head, fearing that he hade off too arrogant just now.


    The Huang Family ancestor quickly bowed, too. "I, Huang Xuankong, pay my respects to you, Sixth King!¡± He then added, ¡°I had the honor of meeting you thirty years ago when I attended the Eight King¡¯s birthday banquet in the capital."


    The Liu Family ancestor bowed in respect.


    While the Bai Family members were uncertain of what would be of them, their minds began to churn at the sight of the Sixth King.


    Maybe they¡¯d be able to turn the tide with his intervention and escape the fate of being wiped out.


    "Oh, you went to the Eight King¡¯s banquet?¡± The Sixth King nodded with a smile. ¡°Yeah, I remember I¡¯ve seen you before." He then looked around. "So what are you all doing here? Seems quite lively."


    The ancestor of the Bai Family sped his hands. "We humbly request that you uphold justice for my family, Sixth King!"


    The Bai Family members sped their hands, their eyes showing a glimmer of hope. "Please uphold justice for our family!"


    Huang Xuankong''s face turned frosty. He nced poisonously at the ancestor of the Bai Family before turning to the Sixth King with a smile. ¡°We¡¯re here to settle a personal vendetta of ours with the Bai Family.¡±


    "I don¡¯t care about your vendettas. Just don¡¯t get in the way of my journey to the Sea Dragon Sect.¡± The Sixth King smiled coldly. ¡°Who was the one who said that there were ships leaving for the Sea Dragon Sect? Hurry and prepare arge ship for us; we have quite a few people here and many more that are stilling.¡±


    Huang Lingyue quickly went over to a few captains as soon as he heard that and made the arrangements for them to receive them onboard.


    The Bai Family''s ancestor¡¯s face turned grim; if the Sixth King wasn¡¯t willing to help them then the worst would still happen.


    It was then that Huang Xuankong stered a toadyish smile and began, "So you¡¯re heading to the Sea Dragon Sect, Sixth King. What a coincidence! The matter we have at hand is rted to the Sea Dragon Sect.¡±


    The Bai Family members became even more anxious when he said that. The imperial family definitely won¡¯t turn a blind eye to the fact that they¡¯d antagonized the Sea Dragon Sect.


    "You see,¡± Huang Xuankong let out a stifled chuckle, unable to help himself. ¡°The Bai Family is foolishly meddling in the matter with that cultivator who has killed the Sea Dragon Sect¡¯s young sect master, which had without a doubt incurred an irreconcble enmity with them. The Sea Dragon Sect definitely won¡¯t take this well, so we have to do something about it."


    The Sixth King nodded solemnly. "Indeed, this is noughing matter." After a pause, he looked at the two ancestors of the Liu and Huang families and said, "So you two have a pretty good rtionship with the Sea Dragon Sect, I suppose?¡±


    "Yes, quite a good one. Their merchants often dock at our port, so we asionally have business deals with them," replied Huang Xuankong with a smile.


    The Huang Family members puffed up their chests in pride, and their faces couldn¡¯t be any more pleased with themselves. It was difficult and very rare for a n situated by the sea to be recognized by the Sea Dragon Sect, so the fact that they had built a rtionship with them had swelled them with great prestige. How else would they¡¯ve been able to snatch seventy to eighty percent of the Bai Family¡¯s business to themselves?!


    The Sixth King suddenly fell silent.


    At that point, another group made up of about twenty to thirty Foundation Building Realm cultivators arrived, all of whom were from the northern region. Leading them was the woman who dressed like a peasant from the Spirit Beast Valley. It was Elder Su.


    The arrival of that group of Foundation Building Realm cultivators immediately caused a shock to appear on the faces of the three ancestors of the Bai Family. Why were there so many Foundation Building Realm cultivators gathering here? What were they here for?


    Could the me Empire be engaging in some strategic cooperation with the Sea Dragon Sect?


    The minds of Huang Xuankong and the Liu Family ancestor began to churn, tumbling one theory after the other.


    After the newly-arrived group merged with the Sixth King¡¯s group, Elder Su asked, "Haven¡¯t the people from the Qingzhou Sword Sect arrived yet?"


    "Not yet, it''s still early," replied the Sixth King.


    "May I ask why is everyone heading to the Sea Dragon Sect, Sixth King?¡± asked Huang Xuankong cautiously.


    "It¡¯s nothing serious," said the Sixth King with a smile. He then turned to Elder Su and the others around here and told them about the situation with the three families.


    When the woman and herpanions heard why the three families were here, their faces turned a little odd.


    "Let''s wait ¡®till he¡¯s here," reminded the Sixth King.


    They all understood what he meant, so they turned to look at Huang Xuankong, casting him looks of pity. However, he seemed oblivious to their sympathetic eyes, as he began to try and get to know everyone.


    While they were all Foundation Building Experts, that didn¡¯t mean that everyone¡¯s background was one and the same. The two families, Liu and Huang, had quite an ordinary background. So, since there were just too few opportunities they had to form rtions with Foundation Building Realm experts from sects, they had to make the most out of this chance.


    It wasn¡¯t long before Jin Nan arrived with a considerable number of Foundation Building cultivators, too.


    At that point, nearly half of the Foundation Building Realm cultivators who had been invited to celebrate Yu Yuefan''s breakthrough had arrived. The rest seemed to have chosen not to take part in this and left. But that made sense, even though they might¡¯ve been able to get their hands on some good stuff by helping in this raid, they¡¯d rather not offend anyone. No one was sure if Immortal Sea Dragon was dead or alive, so it was better this way, lest he appear in the empire once again in the future.


    Huang Xuankong and the others felt a surge of excitement in their hearts, sensing that their heydays were on the horizon!


    Who would¡¯ve thought we¡¯d make so many connections today!


    The Bai Family cultivators'' mood waspletely different from theirs, however, as they were drowning in despair. That woman who was dressed as a peasant didn¡¯t show any interest in their affairs, so they were sure that she wouldn¡¯t be helping out, either.


    "No one can save our family today...." murmured Bai Qianqian to herself. Her eyes grew misty, and a tear slid down her cheek.


    Suddenly, a sword light swooped down from the sky andnded among the crowd.


    As soon as the figurended, everyone turned respectfully as they bowed and saluted, the Sixth King included.


    "Sect Leader Fang!"


    Fang Chen nodded with a smile to everyone. "My disciple will be here in about an hour. We¡¯ll all set off when he arrives.¡±


    Both the Liu Family ancestor and Huang Xuankong were surprised. "Who¡¯s this bigshot?¡±


    They could see that all the Foundation Building cultivators around showed this man very deep respect!

 Chapter 289: That’s the point.

    <h4>Chapter 289: That¡¯s the point.</h4>


    The Sixth King chuckled. "I¡¯ve just heard that you killed the Sea Dragon Sect¡¯s young sect master back when you docked your ship at the Bai Family port, Sect Leader Fang.¡±


    The smiles on the faces of the Liu and Huang family ancestors froze suddenly, and uncertainty welled up in their eyes.


    Even the Bai Family ancestor was stunned. <i>He killed the young sect master of the Sea Dragon Sect?</i>


    Fang Chen nodded with a smile. "Yeah, I did do that."


    "Well, what a coincidence we have here! These two over there were just saying that they are helping the Sea Dragon Sect by leveling the Bai Family.¡± The Sixth King pointed his finger at Huang Xuankong. ¡°I wonder what you think about this?¡±


    The Bai Family members were quick to catch on. This man in the silver mask was the one who had killed the young sect master of the Sea Dragon Sect?


    The Bai Family¡¯s ancestor¡¯s face lit up with excitement. <i>¡®We¡¯re saved!¡¯</i>


    Fang Chen turned to Huan Xuankong. "You¡¯re saying the Sea Dragon Sect asked you to wipe out the Bai Family?" He pointed at himself. "Is it because of me?"


    Huang Xuankong broke out in a cold sweat. "Y-y-y-you are..."


    The Liu Family ancestor didn¡¯t say a word, but one could tell how nervous he was by his trembling hands.


    Fang Chen¡¯s lips curled. "I was the one who killed the Sea Dragon Sect¡¯s young sect master, and I was also the one who killed two of their Ind Lords.¡±


    Silence fell upon the two men.


    The members of the two families grew scared.


    Huang Lingyue had already been able to tell that something just wasn¡¯t right here. But when he heard Fang Chen confess to these things so directly, his heart sank.


    Suddenly, Bai Qianqian stepped forward, sping her fist. "Senior, we¡¯re the ones who told you about the Sapphire Lotus Seeds, and these two families want to exterminate our family because of that, so I implore you to uphold justice!"


    Huang Xuankong took a deep breath, trying to calm his throbbing nerves. He thought back to the fact that he had the support of the Sea Dragon Sect, which offered him a bit of sce in this dire situation. ¡°You¡¯re twisting your words, youngss. We¡¯re only acting on behalf of the Sea Dragon Sect. This has absolutely nothing to do with anything between us.¡± He turned to Fang Chen with a sped fist. ¡°I am Huang Xuankong, and I was just doing what I¡¯ve been entrusted to do,¡± he said. ¡°I trust you won¡¯t me me for this.¡±


    Those words pulled the Liu Family ancestor back to his senses. Indeed, they had the Sea Dragon Sect backing them, what could they possibly be afraid of?


    A smile came to rest on his lips, and he began, "Immortal Sea Dragon is the only cultivator in the Golden Core Realm in this region. We have no choice but to obey his orders."


    Underneath his words was a hint of threat, and it was suggesting to Fang Chen that he¡¯d better not do anything out of line.


    None of the people around were naturally scared by his attempt to threaten them.


    With a raised brow, Daoist Ya curiously asked, "Don''t your families have any informants? Haven¡¯t you heard of any of the news that has been circting aroundtely?"


    The two men were taken aback. "What news?"


    "<i>Sigh</i>. Being out of touch can really lead to trouble,¡± said Daoist Ya, shaking his head.


    A Foundation Building Realm cultivator smiled and said, ¡°Immortal Sea Dragon was at the Heavenly Southern Sect a few days ago. Sect Leader Fang was also there."


    Another person added, "But Sect Leader Fang killed thete-stage Foundation Building Realm Passing Dragon Ind Master even before that, way back. I suppose you were unaware of this too?"


    The members of the two families were struck dumb, and their eyes widened and their mouths went agape as they looked at Fang Chen.


    "He... killed the Passing Dragon Ind Lord?"


    The Passing Dragon Ind Lord was ranked in the top three of all the Foundation Building Realm experts of the Sea Dragon Sect, just behind anotherte-stage Foundation Building Realm expert and a grandpletion stage Foundation Building Realm expert.


    He was actually capable of killing such a figure?!


    "But wait, I don¡¯t understand. Given the enmity between Immortal Sea Dragon and Sect Leader Fang, how is he still alive if they¡¯de face to face?¡± asked Huang Xuankong instinctively.


    Daoist Ya chuckled. "Yeah, well, that¡¯s the whole point. Immortal Sea Dragon was pped away by a senior from Sect Leader Fang''s sect. We don¡¯t know if he¡¯s alive or dead, but he isn¡¯ting back any time soon, that¡¯s for sure."


    Huang Xuankong and the others felt a chill run down their spines, and their skins pimpled with goosebumps as they went rigid all over. They quickly tried to read into the expressions of the Sixth King and the others, but the looks on their faces only added to their fright. They were actually dead serious!


    The Bai Family ancestor looked at the two men with schadenfreude. He then turned to Fang Chen and bowed. "Sect Leader Fang, these two people have deep ties with the Sea Dragon Sect,¡± he said. ¡°They often im to be their partners so that they could strengthen their position around the coastal areas."


    The Sixth King suggested, "Since we¡¯re raiding the Sea Dragon Sect, Sect Leader Fang, shouldn¡¯t we deal with all the small fries tied to them first? What do you think?"


    "Then let''s kill them all. I¡¯ll take their treasures. You can have their spiritual herbs and spirit stones, I don¡¯t need those," said Fang Chen with a smile.


    "Wait, wait!" said Huang Xuankong quickly, waving his hand in the air. "There¡¯s no enmity between us! We were only slightly involved with the Sea Dragon Sect..."


    The Sixth King sneered. "That¡¯s enough."


    Before long, the Bai Family port found itself to be a lot emptier than it was. A mound of people had appeared close by, all piled up on one another, and among whom were the two ancestors, their corpses littered with open wounds. They had been attacked by more than ten Foundation Building Realm cultivators, who had been led by the Sixth King. They were able to hold on for about ten minutes before it became too much and they sumbed to their injuries.


    Fang Chen pilfered their corpses, searching for treasures and spiritual materials and storing them in his ring. After everything was done with the Sea Dragon Sect, he¡¯d feed these things to Little Sword.


    A chill ran down The Bai family members¡¯ spines as they watched this unfold. Two major cultivation families of the area had been cleanly leveled, utter annihtion. The Sixth Kind and hispany didn¡¯t even flinch as they had killed them, as though they were casually crushing a few ants....


    It was worth noting that if it weren''t for the arrival of the Sixth King and his group, they would¡¯ve been the ones killed!


    Two hours flew by, and finally, Zhong Yue arrived with everyone from the sect.


    They didn¡¯t wait around and everyone quickly boarded therge ship that had been prepared for them before it set sail in the direction of the Sea Dragon Sect.


    The Bai Family ancestor sighed as he watched the ship disappear into the distance. "Thankfully you¡¯ve left a good impression on that senior, Qianqian. We would¡¯ve been in fatal danger otherwise,¡± he said, giving Bai Qianqian an approving look. He then suddenly smiled and added, ¡°We should pay the Huang and Liu families¡¯ manors a visit.¡±


    "Ancestor, that senior was the one who killed them both. Is it okay for us to make a profit on his ount?¡± whispered Bai Qianqian softly.


    The Bai Family ancestor¡¯s smile curled a little more. "We are just tidying up the ce on his behalf."


    Everyone immediately understood what their ancestor was getting at; this was an opportunity to gain the favor of that senior!


    ***


    Fang Chen was standing at the forefront of the deck. Surrounding the ship from all directions were ten, hundred-foot-tall water dragons that broke through the sea surface before they fell back into the sea constantly as the ship sailed. They dove down and then burst out of the sea, creating a spectacr scene.


    This scene caused the Foundation Building Realm cultivators aboard to be struck with surprise.


    "Those are ten, hundred-foot-tall water dragons. Sect Leader Fang has a really high mastery over element maniption!"


    Jin Nan watched this scene with mixed feelings.


    He was at the mid-stage Foundation Building Realm yet he could only control about nine, hundred-foot-tall water dragons, and he couldn¡¯t even do that as leisurey as Fang Chen controlled ten of them.


    In less than a year, this young man from Grand Xia had grown so strong that he couldpletely dominate the cultivation scene in the me Empire.


    The Sixth King watched Fang Chen practice with a smile, and struck with a thought, he suggested, "Everyone, look at how Sect Leader Fang is working so hard. Why don''t we take this as a chance to practice our control over the elements with him?"


    And so, everyone began to practice.


    The scenery around the ship was magnificent, with all manner of ancient, exotic beasts flying about in the sea, up and down.


    Wherever the ship sailed, all the sea creatures trembled in fear before fleeing as quickly as possible!

 Chapter 290: Ancient First Family

    <h4>Chapter 290: Ancient First Family</h4>


    After several days of sailing, the huge ship finally entered the Sea Dragon Sect¡¯s territorial waters. Here, one could find an ind popted with many mortals every couple of hundred miles, and each ind had a poption that ranged from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands, so it wasn¡¯t really fair to call the Sea Dragon Sect a ¡°sect,¡± really, as it was more like an empire¡ªa maritime empire!


    Watching the contours ofnd appear in the distance, the Sixth King smiled and pointed, saying, "That''s Green Mountain Ind over there."


    The ind''s green mountains resembled towering swords, and one could feel the rich spiritual energy from afar.


    Everyone couldn''t help but sigh in admiration at the sight.


    The former owner of Green Mountain Ind, Xue Fenggui, was quite famous even in the me Empire. If Fang Chen hadn''t killed him, then it was very likely that he would have reached the mid-stage of Foundation Building, or even thete stage, at that. It was quite a regretful thing.


    "Who wants to go and take over that ind?" asked Fang Chen with a faint smile.


    Daoist Ya stepped forward. "I''ll go."


    Several early-stage Foundation Building Realm cultivators volunteered to lend him a helping hand.


    They had already discussed how the loot would be split before they set sail¡ªFang Chen would take thirty percent of everything, and the rest would be distributed among them.


    Most of those here were more interested in the main ind and the inds which housed the mid tote stage Foundation Building experts, so no one jumped to vie with Daoist Ya for the ind.


    Fang Chen dispatched several disciples from the Qingzhou Sword Sect to apany them before sailing toward the next ind.


    Half a dayter, the huge ship arrived at yet another ind, but the port was very quiet and empty. There were no Sea Dragon ships around.


    Standing on the deck, Sixth King peered into the distance and chuckled. "They must¡¯ve received the news. Immortal Sea Dragon might not be dead,¡± he said. ¡°It¡¯s very likely that he was the one who sent them a message. I bet there¡¯s not a single Foundation Building Realm cultivator left in the sect."


    "They can take their spiritual materials and treasures and leave, but they can¡¯t take the spiritual fields and springs away,¡± said a Foundation Building Realm cultivator.


    The Sixth King smiled. "There will always be some fish that slip through the. With so little time, they won''t have time to take everything. I reckon they fled in a hurry as soon as they received the news, so there¡¯ll still be a lot of good stuff left on the inds we can take."


    Everyone nodded in agreement, finding his reasoning sound.


    If they had been in their shoes and received a piece of intel that stated that a Golden Core Realm mighte knocking, they¡¯d also turn tail and flee as far away as possible!


    Several Foundation Building Realm cultivators volunteered to take over the ind, and as usual, Fang Chen sent a few disciples from the Qingzhou Sword Sect to apany them.


    It only took them a few days to take control of the nine inds of the Sea Dragon Sect. All the Foundation Building experts of the sect had fled without exception. They clearly didn¡¯t even want to take the risk of resisting.


    By the time they arrived at the main ind, there were only a few people left on the ship with Fang Chen.


    Immortal Sea Dragon was the one who usually resided on the main ind. Foundation Building Realm cultivators who wanted to moor their ships were usually barred from doing so here. That was naturally, a Golden Core Realm expert wouldn¡¯t waste their time seeing cultivators in realms lower than them.


    Fang Chen didn¡¯t appear exactly excited, but the same couldn¡¯t be said about the Sixth King and the others, who were very curious about the ce. This was the first time they ever set foot into a Golden Core Realm¡¯s cultivator cave dwelling. There were surely many things to be obtained here since Immortal Sea Dragon likely hadn¡¯t had the chance toe back and fetch his stuff. Today''s harvest ought to be fruitful, they reckoned.


    There was a dense fog that surrounded the ind, which made it difficult to see anything beyond ten zhang.


    The captain had seen his fair share of the world, so he tensely warned them, ¡°A formation has been set up here, esteemed seniors. If we can¡¯t uncover its mysteries, we can be trapped inside it easily.¡±


    This was a formation likely set up by a Golden Core Realm cultivator, so there wasn¡¯t a need to mention how dangerous it could be. If they became trapped inside, everyone might end up stranded here.


    Frowning, the Sixth King turned Fire Cloud Immortal and the rest and asked, "Is anyone here proficient in formations?¡±


    Jin Nan thought for a moment, then tactfully said, "We''re only at the Foundation Building Realm, so we haven''t had the opportunity to explore the Dao of Formations yet. "


    Where would cultivators like them encounter such advanced formations? Like the inheritance of sword cultivators, professions such as Formation Masters, Pill Masters, and Artifact Masters needed very rare inheritances.


    Everyone turned sulky. If they couldn''t get past this formation, they¡¯d have no choice but to turn back. Keeping their life was most important.


    The Sixth King turned to Fang Chen. "What do you think, Sect Leader Fang?"


    Fang Chen smiled faintly. "Give me a moment."


    The crowd was surprised. Did Fang Chen know formations?


    To them, thebination of sword inheritance and formation inheritance really painted the picture that Fang Chen was an elite disciple from a prestigious sect who hade down into the secr world to mingle with a few farmers....


    Fang Chen closed his eyes. His divine soul instantly appeared in the sky.


    In this state, the fog had been lifted, and Fang Chen could see right beneath the sea, where there were many crimson-gold stone steles inscribed with special runes.


    These crimson-gold stone steles faintly circted spiritual energy and were interconnected. They were clearly the source of the fog that permeated the ind.


    Fang Chen was quick to notice that the spiritual energy in a few spots in the formation didn¡¯t seem to flow very smoothly, and they even went stagnant in their cirction for a few moments in specific spots


    After studying the spiritual energy movement for a while, Fang Chen determined that he should be able to seize these few moments of stagnation that arose tond on the ind. So, after memorizing the patterns and timings, his divine soul appeared above the ind.


    The ind was notrge. Its size was roughly the same as that of Grand Xia¡¯s capital.


    In front of a luxurious cave-dwelling, there were ten acres of spiritual fields and three spiritual springs. Many spiritual herbs had been nted in the spiritual fields, and judging from their spiritual energy fluctuations, they were at least of lower to middle grades, with some being of high grade.


    There were currently a few young disciples wearing green robes on the ind. They were chatting with each other as they watered the spiritual field with spiritual spring water. They didn¡¯t seem to have received news of what had transpired.


    <i>¡®Those two people Immortal Sea Dragon mentioned should be here,¡¯ </i>thought Fang Chen as he began to search through the ce quickly. He had overheard Immortal Sea Dragon tell the Heavenly Southern Sect¡¯s ancestor that he had captured two important figures. Fang Chen wanted to see if these two people could help him confirm the identities of Immortal Sea Dragon and the Heavenly Southern Sect¡¯s ancestor.


    Before long, Fang Chen stumbled upon two familiar faces inside the cave-dwelling, one old and one young. Fang Chen had seen this pair before, aboard that ship he had taken to sail to the me Empire.


    ¡®So, the Sea Dragon Sect''s young sect master was searching for these two that day.¡¯ As this thought struck Fang Chen, he heard the girl speak.


    "Is there any hope we can escape, Uncle Zhong?" she asked tentatively.


    The middle-aged man sighed lightly. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, youngdy. You are thest direct descendant of the Jiang family. They wouldn''t dare to harm you. So, there¡¯ll be many chances for us to escape if we can keep our lives."


    "I''d rather die than be their puppet," whispered the little girl.


    The middle-aged man''s expression turned serious. "You can¡¯t speak so lightly of death. You''re the Jiang Family¡¯s¡ªthe ancient first family¡¯sst descendent. If you die, your family''s bloodline will cease to exist!"


    The ancient first family? Fang Chen''s eyes lit up. That family they speak of had to have quite the background since it dared to give itself such a title. It was very likely that they were from a first-tier empire, even. However, from their conversation, it seemed that the so-called ¡®ancient first family¡¯ was already in tatters.

 Chapter 291: The Second Question, Who Am I?

    <h4>Chapter 291: The Second Question, Who Am I?</h4>


    Fifteen minutes passed.


    Fang Chen''s divine soul returned to his body. He turned to the captain. ¡°Do as I say, head in that direction,¡± he said, pointing in a direction.


    The captain seemed hesitant to do as told.


    The Sixth King exchanged looks with the others before he came up to Fang Chen and whispered, "Sect Leader Fang, are you sure about this?"


    Fang Chen smiled. "If you''re afraid that you¡¯ll be trapped in the formation, you can leave now."


    No one said anything.


    Finally, after some consideration amongst themselves, a few Foundation Building Realm cultivators sped their fists at Fang Chen and then flew away. They really didn¡¯t dare to step into a formation that had been set up by a Golden Core Realm cultivator so recklessly. They had only one life; they didn¡¯t want to gamble it away like this.


    Now that these few cultivators had left, there were only a few cultivators aboard the ship, who had decided after much consideration that they¡¯d take the risk. This was a rare opportunity. Immortal Sea Dragon¡¯s cave dwelling had to contain many resources they could use.


    "Have you all made your decision?" asked Fang Chen.


    The Sixth King nodded. "I trust in your abilities."


    Fang Chen returned a nod and turned to the captain. "Set sail."


    Sullen, the captain had no choice but to set sail, following Fang Chen¡¯s directions.


    "Stop."


    "You can go now."


    "Turn left by ten yards."


    "Hmm, continue forward."


    It was about half an hourter that they all noticed that the fog suddenly started to lift, and it wasn¡¯t long before they all saw a port close in the distance!


    Everyone took in a sharp breath.


    "We¡¯ve already made it?"


    They had expected themselves to encounter a few hups in their way! This had gone way too smoothly!


    There was only one exnation for this: Fang Chen had to have analyzed this formation to the very extreme and understood it thoroughly in such a short period of time!


    "It only took him half an hour to crack a formation set up by a Golden Core Realm expert....¡±


    Everyone was shaken.


    "There aren¡¯t any Foundation Building Realm cultivators on the ind, only some at the Qi Refining Realm, so you don''t need to worry. But there are a few areas on the ind with formations set up, so you¡¯d better be careful. Don¡¯t be reckless."


    Leaving those words behind, Fang Chen transformed into a streak of sword light and swooped into the sky, flying toward the center of the ind.


    Everyone quickly followed suit.


    They arrived at Immortal Sea Dragon¡¯s cave dwelling almost in an instant.


    The youngsters around were shocked to see them.


    ¡°Who are you?¡± asked one of them, shouting angrily. ¡°Don¡¯t you know that this is Immortal Sea Dragon¡¯s cave dwelling? How dare you barge your way in here?¡±


    <i>¡®So he really didn¡¯te back,¡¯ </i>thought everyone, almost in unison.


    Fang Chen found the fact that Immortal Sea Dragon didn¡¯te back a little amusing. <i>¡®These two people seemed very important to him. The fact that he didn¡¯t return for them means that he has been seriously injured by Senior Yun He¡¯s blow.¡¯</i>


    After a moment, all the youths on the ind were gathered together. The strongest among them was at the tenth stage of Qi Refining. They looked shocked and terrified, having already learned from the Sixth King that Immortal Sea Dragon had been seriously injured.


    "Where is the spiritual field?" interrogated the Sixth King calmly.


    The youths remained silent.


    Fire Cloud Immortal chuckled. "You¡¯ll only suffer if you keep mum. We¡¯ll find out where it is ourselves even if you don¡¯t say it, so why bother?¡±


    After much hesitation, one of the youths spilled the beans.


    After that, Fang Chen walked straight toward the cave dwelling. The Sixth King, Jin Nan, and Elder Su followed right behind him.


    The rest of the group began to plunder the ind''s resources.


    Before long, Fang Chen arrived at the backyard of the cave, where another formation was set up to trap the two individuals he had seen.


    "I''ll go in and take a look." Fang Chen shot the three a smile and then disappeared into the formation.


    The three exchanged looks.


    "There might be good stuff inside," muttered the Sixth King.


    Elder Su nced at him briefly then looked away. ¡°Even if there is, that¡¯s none of our concern. Let''s just have a look around here."


    The Sixth King didn¡¯t argue. They began to search around the cave, looking for resources to pilfer.


    ***


    Passing through the dense fog, Fang Chen found himself in a backyard.


    When the old man and young girl saw him, their faces immediately darkened.


    "Tell Immortal Sea Dragon that my youngdy is of noble status and should not be treated like this," said the middle-aged man coldly.


    There was anger in the young girl¡¯s eyes as she watched Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen smiled thinly. "And what sort of treatment do you want, exactly?"


    The middle-aged man frowned. "Do you have a say in that?"


    He remembered that there had been only a few disciples here on the ind serving Immortal Sea Dragon. He had never seen this masked cultivator before. <i>Maybe he isn¡¯t one of Immortal Sea Dragon¡¯s people?</i>


    Fang Chen nodded. "I¡¯m the one calling the shots right now. So, whatever requests you have, feel free to tell me."


    The middle-aged man''s gaze flickered, and he said in a deep voice, "I have only one request: don¡¯t keep mydy locked up in here. We can''t escape from the ind anyway."


    "I can agree to that request, but you have to answer a few questions of mine," said Fang Chen lightly.


    The middle-aged man sneered coldly. "You already know everything you should. There¡¯s nothing else for me to say. Even if you want to kill me, I won¡¯t say another word."


    "Tell me about the ancient first family, the Jiang Family."


    The middle-aged man was taken aback. His eyes boiling with anger, he shouted, "Are you messing with me?¡±


    "You¡¯re not saying? Then I¡¯m leaving," said Fang Chen, turning to leave.


    The middle-aged man¡¯s face sank, and he quickly yelled, "Wait! I¡¯ll tell you!¡±


    Fang Chen stopped and turned back.


    The middle-aged man slowly began, "The Jiang Family has been around since ancient times, and we have countless powerful figures. We¡¯re revered as the ¡®ancient first family.¡¯"


    He didn¡¯t say anything else, only watched Fang Chen silently.


    "Is that all?" asked Fang Chen, his brow raised. "You might as well have not said anything. Tell me a little more."


    It was then that the young girl spoke up. "Let me handle this, Uncle Zhang,¡± she said, looking at Fang Chen. "My Jiang Family has once dominated a first-tier empire in the Central Continent. We were invincible. But that was a long, long time ago. As you all know, the Jiang Family has long since declined. I am thest descendent of the family."


    <i>¡®A once invincible ancient family had been reduced to two people in the Qi Refining Realm?¡¯ </i>pondered Fang Chen silently. That had to be a long, long time ago. But since Immortal Sea Dragon spared an effort to capture these two, then there had to be something about them that was worth the trouble.


    Fang Chen smiled. "Now for the second question: who am I?"


    The two of them looked at each other. Has this man lost his marbles?


    "You Spirit Blood Sect members are really a bunch of lunatics,¡± growled the middle-aged man.


    The Spirit Blood Sect.


    <i>¡®So it really is the Spirit Blood Sect,¡¯</i> thought Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen was starting to believe Xia Xuanji''s words. There might really be a supreme figure behind the Spirit Blood Sect who was lurking in a first-tier empire. That Jade Dragon Battle General who Immortal Sea Dragon had spoken of was likely a Nascent Soul expert!


    This was very valuable information, but Fang Chen couldn¡¯t help but feel that he had only scratched the tip of the iceberg which is the Spirit Blood Sect.


    "Do you have a ce you can go to if you escape from here?" asked Fang Chen. He wasn''t interested in these two, but as they said, ¡°The enemy of my enemy is my friend.¡± Since the Spirit Blood Sect wanted them, he¡¯ll hide them away so they''ll never find them!

 Chapter 292 Harvest

    <h4>Chapter 292 Harvest</h4>


    Fang Chen''s words stunned both of them.


    ¡°What do you mean? Are you suggesting you''ll let us go?" asked the middle-aged man tentatively, his voice rising.


    "Immortal Sea Dragon has been severely injured. He isn¡¯ting back anytime soon. So yeah, you can leave,¡± said Fang Chen. ¡°But if you don''t want to leave, that¡¯s fine too.¡±


    "What? He¡¯s severely injured?¡± repeated the middle-aged man in shock. His eyes quickly turned wary. ¡°Wait! Who exactly are you?¡±


    If he really wasn¡¯t one of Immortal Sea Dragon¡¯s men, then how did he know about the Jiang Family? And why did he ask them about it the first thing he saw them?


    "I''vepromised this ind, but I¡¯ll be returning to the me Empire now. You can weigh your options ande to a decision while I¡¯m away" replied Fang Chen, pivoting around to leave.


    After walking a few steps away, Fang Chen came to a stop and lightly smiled. He turned his head back. ¡°Youing or not?¡±


    "We''reing!" The middle-aged man immediately grabbed the little girl''s hand and sprung forward.


    He¡¯d follow Fang Chen. He wanted to know who he was, anyway. If Fang Chen was one of Immortal Sea Dragon¡¯s men, then he¡¯d take a look at what he was capable of.


    The two followed Fang Chen away, through the fog. When they appeared on the other side, they saw the Sixth King and the others, who had been waiting outside for Fang Chen.


    When everyone saw the two unfamiliar faces, they became confused.


    The Sixth King was the first to open his mouth. "Who are these, Sect Leader Fang?"


    "This little girl was kidnapped by Immortal Sea Dragon to be his concubine, but she refused, so he threw her and her servant inside here, locking them up,¡± invented Fang Chen.


    Elder Su smirked at that. ¡°I¡¯ve long since heard of the Sea Dragon Sect¡¯s weird antics. Looks like it¡¯s true.¡±


    Puzzled, the middle-aged man and the young girl secretly seized up Jin Nan, Elder Su, and the Sixth King.


    "We didn¡¯t find a lot of things of value in his cave dwelling. I''m afraid the most valuable things on the ind are the spiritual fields and springs," said Jin Nan casually.


    "I don''t want any of those things,¡± said Fang Chen. ¡°I am not from around here, after all. And I won¡¯t be staying for long. I¡¯ll ept spiritual materials in exchange for them.¡±


    "Can we use spirit stones?" asked the Sixth King.


    Fang Chen nodded. "I can take spirit stones."


    It was all the same; he could use spirit stones to buy spiritual materials.


    The middle-aged man''s brow scrunched up. <i>¡®So they¡¯ve really raided the Sea Dragon Sect.¡¯</i>


    But Immortal Sea Dragon was a powerful Golden Core Realm cultivator from the Spirit Blood Sect. How were these people able to do this?


    He had been a little taken aback when he saw how Fang Chen had gone out of his way toe up with an excuse for them, but he naturally didn¡¯t call him out on it. He wasn¡¯t sure if any of these people in front of him were from the Spirit Blood Sect, after all.


    An hourter, they all left the ind on the ship, taking away the youths in green robes with them.


    ***


    Several dayster.


    The Bai Family reception hall.


    There were many Foundation Building Realm cultivators gathered inside the hall today. The ancestor of the Bai Family took on the role of being today¡¯s host, personally tending to the guests alongside the Bai Family Head.


    Even Bai Qianqian had sensibly transformed into a maidservant, serving tea to the guests. The other members of the Bai Family didn''t even have the qualifications to enter the hall, so they all remained stationed outside, but they were brimming with excitement nheless.


    Their family¡¯s name would be on everyone¡¯s lips throughout the coastal areas from this day forward! They had heard of the many names that were here today, such as the me Empire¡¯s Sixth King; Elder Jin Nan from the Heavenly Southern Sect; Elder Su from Spirit Beast Valley; and the most important of them all¡ªthe Qingzhou Sword Sect Master!


    Even though the Bai Family had been around for many, many years, this was the first time where they had such a grand asion!


    Inside the hall.


    ¡°We¡¯ve crunched the numbers, Sect Leader Fang,¡± said Elder Su. ¡°Your share is thirty percent, so you¡¯ll be receiving ten thousand low-grade spirit stones.¡±


    Bai Qianqian was pouring Fang Chen a cup of tea when she heard that, and the pot she held almost slipped out of her hand from shock, nearly spilling the tea all over Fang Chen. Her hand tottered in the air for a moment before she calmed down her stinging nerves and steadied her hand. She filled Fang Chen¡¯s cup before she slipped away quickly.


    What a terrifying number! Ten thousand low-grade spirit stones? The Bai Family, with all its years of business experience down its belt, only had an annual ie of less than a thousand spirit stones!


    While a thousand spirit stones wasn¡¯t a small number, per se, and the family was able to use this sum to nurture cultivators each year, ensuring the continuity of its legacy, there wouldn¡¯t be many spirit stones left by the end of the year. That¡¯s why the family members often ventured out into the world, seeking to earn spirit stones for themselves.


    The cultivation world was cruel, and resources were scarce, so the fact that the Bai Family had been able to be a cultivation n was an outstanding feat in and of itself.


    Even if one considered the me Empire as a whole, ten thousand low-grade spirit stones were an amount that could cause anyone¡¯s heart to race and their eyes to turn bloodshot. So it wasn¡¯t only Bai Qianqian who had been shocked hearing that number, both the head and the ancestor were shocked to hear it.


    ¡°We could¡¯ve at least doubled those numbers if it weren¡¯t for the fact that these Sea Dragon Sect cultivators ran away with most of the resources,¡± added the Sixth King, his tonementing.


    Everyone nodded in agreement, but they didn¡¯t feel too regretful about it, they were even pretty content with what they had gotten. Take Daoist Ya for example, he had earned himself four hundred low-grade spirit stones, which were enough to fuel his cultivation for an entire year. He could even buy himself an ordinary yellow rank, mid-grade treasure if he wanted.


    The Bai family ancestor was beside himself with envy. <i>Looks like they thoroughly sacked the Sea Dragon Sect!</i>


    Fang Chen smiled."You can give me the spirit stones¡¯ worth of spiritual materials. I will be leaving the me Empire soon, so can you send me my share in the next few days?"


    After some discussion, they agreed to deliver the spiritual materials and spirit stones to the Qingzhou Sword Sect seven dayster.


    After everything was settled, they all left the Bai Family manor, and the ancestor personally saw them off.


    But before leaving, Fang Chen took out five peak-grade Purple Lightning Talismans and handed them to Bai Qianqing. ¡°Consider these payment for the tea. Keep them. If you face any problems in the future, you can go to the Qingzhou Sword Sect.¡±


    "Thank you, Senior Fang!" beamed Bai Qianqian.


    After everyone had finally left, the ancestor took the talismans from Bai Qianqian''s hand and took a look at them. "Purple Lightning Talismans!" he eximed suddenly.


    Those around were shocked to hear those words.


    Purple Lightning Talismans? Those were some of the best low-grade, yellow-rank talismans one could get their hands on! They were very rare!


    "What¡¯s their grade, Ancestor?¡± asked the Bai Family Head quickly.


    "I''m not sure,¡± the ancestor smiled, giving Bai Qianqing the talismans back, ¡°but the spiritual energy on them is very dense, so they can¡¯t be weak."


    They¡¯ve really had a windfall today; not only had they been able to swallow the Huang and Liu families¡¯ territories, but they were also able towork with a powerful sword cultivator. And all of that because of the five hundred spirit stones he had handed over to Fang Chen back then.


    "Qianqian, how do you feel about going to the Qingzhou Sword Sect to cultivate?" asked the Bai Family ancestor suddenly.


    "Me? Go to the Qingzhou Sword Sect?¡± Bai Qianqing was surprised. ¡°But what about the family business...?¡±


    "That¡¯s not important. Your father still has many years to live. You¡¯re the most talented member of the family, so we can¡¯t have you wasting your time here,¡± said the Bai Family ancestor with a smile.


    The head of the Bai Family felt ashamed upon hearing this.


    ¡°Then... I want to go to the Qingzhou Sword Sect to cultivate, Ancestor!"


    ¡°There¡¯s no rush. We¡¯ll prepare some gifts and I¡¯ll personally take you there when the timees,¡± said the ancestor after some thought.

 Chapter 293 Departure

    <h4>Chapter 293 Departure</h4>


    Qingzhou Sword Sect.


    Jiang Zhong and Jiang Tianai were seated in the reception hall¡¯s chairs, feeling somewhat ufortable. They had been very sure that Fang Chen couldn¡¯t be from a sect in the me Empire since he knew about their family, but here they were, sitting in the Qingzhou Sword Sect, which was in the me Empire....


    This left them very puzzled about Fang Chen¡¯s background, so they had a certain level of vignce in their eyes as they looked at him.


    "Have you two decided on where you want to go?" asked Fang Chen casually.


    Liu Mu was brewing tea on the side.


    Jiang Zhong¡¯s expression was full of doubt. "You know about our identities, Sect Leader Fang, but I don¡¯t feel like you have any ulterior motives. Are you willing to let us leave?"


    "I know the Spirit Blood Sect wants you, but to be honest, I have a feud with them, so I just don''t want to let them have their way." Fang Chen chuckled. "As for why they want you, I don¡¯t want to know."


    "A feud with the Spirit Blood Sect?" Jiang Zhong''s brow scrunched up. He seemed suspicious.


    After a moment of contemtion, he stood up and sped his hands together. "In that case, I would like to thank you for helping us. My youngdy and I will take our leave."


    "Alright." Fang Chen nodded with a faint smile. "Just remember to stay far away. Don''t let the Spirit Blood Sect catch you again."


    Jiang Zhong immediately left with Jiang Tianai quickly.


    Fang Chen turned to Liu Mu. "Wasn''t that youngdy quite beautiful?"


    Liu Mu''s face turned pink, too shy to respond.


    Fang Chen couldn''t help but chuckle. "I noticed you''ve been sneaking nces at her. Feeling lonely without anyone your age in the sect?"


    Liu Mu shook his head slightly.


    "A cultivator must, and will, endure loneliness.¡± Fang Chen sighed softly. ¡°You¡¯ll feel this more the more you continue on your path. This is just the beginning.¡±


    Fang Chen knew that, if he advanced to the Foundation Building Realm, and even to the Golden Core Realm one day, his lifespan would be much longer than that of an ordinary person. At that point, he would face a dilemma; he would have to bid farewell to his loved ones sooner orter. This was a challenge that most cultivators had to face. Perhaps, if one didn¡¯t make a few good friends along the way, then he¡¯d have no one¡ªthose who remembered him would¡¯ve all turned to dust.


    "It¡¯ll be lonely...." said Fang Chen self-mockingly. If that day truly came, he might even hesitate to kill his enemies.


    Suddenly, a voice came from outside the hall¡¯s door. "Um...."


    Fang Chen turned to see that Jiang Zhong had returned with the young girl. He was watching Fang Chen with embarrassment.


    Fang Chen chuckled. "I thought you left?"


    Jiang Zhong smiled wryly. "I¡¯ve had my doubts, Sect Leader Fang, but now I''m finally sure that you''re really not rted to the Spirit Blood Sect."


    He had considered that Fang Chen might¡¯ve been putting an amiable front to trick them, masking his true intentions, but it seemed not. Also, when he thought about it carefully, he realized that it¡¯d be difficult for him to set out alone with the youngdy to a faraway ce with their cultivation.


    "So, where do you want to go?¡± asked Fang Chen with a smile. ¡°I can see if it''s on the way."


    Fang Chen was nning to go to the Fang Family¡¯s main branch. This was the wish of the old master, and he had to fulfill it for him.


    "Sect Leader Fang, we n to head to the fifth-tier empire, Grand Qian. There''s a noble family over there whose ancestors once served as servants of the Jiang Family. They should be willing to take us in," said Jiang Zhong.


    Fang Chen was taken aback. <i>What a coincidence; the Fang Family¡¯s main branch was in the Grand Qian Empire too.</i>


    Fang Chen nodded. "I''ll send you over there in a few days. You can stay here for now."


    "Thank you, Sect Leader Fang," said Jiang Zhong.


    Fang Chen turned to Liu Mu with a bit of a smile. "Liu Mu, why don¡¯t you take them to where they''ll be staying.¡±


    Liu Mu''s face immediately turned red. He silently gestured for the two of them to follow him.


    ***


    Fang Chen focused on practicing the five elements to quickly deplete his spiritual energy over the next few days.


    Finally, after several more days passed, the Sixth King and the others came to the sect, handing over a full ten thousand low-grade spirit stones to Fang Chen.


    ***


    In the main hall of the sect.


    Zhang Yue and others stood below with solemn expressions, while Ye Wenxiu and Liu Mu stood by Fang Chen''s side, their positions subtly highlighting the difference in status.


    "Everyone, I have an announcement to make," said Fang Chen calmly.


    The others'' expressions slightly stiffened, their faces bing even more respectful.


    "From now on, Ye Wenxiu will be the junior sect leader of the Qingzhou Sword Sect.¡± Fang Chen looked at Zhong Yue and the others. ¡°I hope everyone can help guide him while I am not here. "


    Everyone nodded silently, not surprised at all. They had alreadye to the conclusion that Ye Wenxiu¡¯s position in the sect would be extremely high, way back.


    "We don¡¯t dare im that we¡¯ll provide him with guidance, but we¡¯ll surely do our best to assist him while you¡¯re not here," replied Zhong Yue quickly. The other two simrly expressed their willingness to support Ye Wenxiu.


    They had already witnessed Fang Chen''s power, and pledging allegiance to such a powerhouse was a matter of wholeheartedmitment. They dared not have any other thoughts.


    Fang Chen nodded slightly and then took out a batch of spirit stones from his storage ring. "Here are two thousand low-grade spirit stones. The three of you can distribute them on my behalf."


    Hearing that, the disciples around were struck with a sudden, secret delight. Even if the spirit stones were distributed among everyone, they¡¯d get about ten or more spirit stones, which was still a windfall to them fourth stage Qi Refining Realm cultivators!


    ***


    An hourter, Fang Chen left the Qingzhou Sword Sect with Jiang Zhong and his youngdy.


    Ye Wenxiu and Liu Mu watched them leave, reluctance in their hearts.


    When their figures finally disappeared, Ye Wenxiu subconsciously rubbed his ring; inside were twenty peak-grade Purple Lightning Talismans Fang Chen had given him for his protection.


    Ye Wenxiu then looked at Liu Mu. "Junior Brother Liu, Master said that when your martial arts reach a certain level, he will guide you onto the path of cultivation.¡¯ He gave Liu Mu a pat on the shoulder. "Both of us need to work hard. I hope we can impress Master the next time he¡¯s here."


    Liu Mu nodded heavily with determined eyes.


    Suddenly, Zhong Yue spoke up. "Someone''sing," he said.


    The three turned around, toward the stone steps in front of the sect. When they saw who it was, they immediately recognized him.


    "We meet again."


    The Bai Family¡¯s ancestor stepped forward briskly with Bai Qianqian, bowing respectfully with a warm smile on his face. He didn''t dare look down on them just because they were in the Qi Refining Realm.


    "Are you here to see the sect leader?¡± asked Zhong Yue with a smile. ¡°Sorry to say this but he has already left on a journey and he won¡¯t be back for a while.¡±


    The Bai Family¡¯s ancestor was taken aback. <i>He has left?</i>


    A wry smile rose on his lips. He would¡¯vee sooner if he knew.


    Zhong Yue made the introductions. "Let me introduce you. This is our sect¡¯s junior sect leader. He¡¯s also our sect leader¡¯s disciple.¡±


    Ye Wenxiu sped his fist. "I''m Ye Wenxiu. Nice to meet you."


    The Bai Family¡¯s ancestor quickly returned the gesture. "No need for formalities!"


    He didn''t care about Ye Wenxiu''s status as the junior sect leader. What he cared about was that Ye Wenxiu was the disciple of that mysterious sword cultivator! That in and of itself was enough for him to walk the me Empire unbridled!


    Bai Qianqian secretly envied Ye Wenxiu. Being the disciple of such a powerful figure would undoubtedly lead to a boundless future!


    The Bai Family¡¯s ancestor looked at Zhong Yue. "Daoist Zhong, I am actually here to ask you if it¡¯s possible for this disciple of mine to enter your sect....¡±


    Zhong Yue nced at Bai Qianqian and smiled. "That''s not a problem. Pleasee in so we can discuss the details."

 Chapter 294: Qinghu Empire

    <h4>Chapter 294: Qinghu Empire</h4>


    The vast sea stretched out as far as the eyes could see.


    Fang Chen stood with his hands behind his back on the deck, silently watching the continent in the distancee into view. Suddenly, a slight chill swept over him. He gently extended his palm, and a crystal-clear snowkended in his hand.


    "It''s snowing," murmured Fang Chen, feeling a sense of deja vu. Snowfall meant that the New Year was approaching. When he first met Senior Yun He, it was shortly after the New Year.


    ¡°Seems like a year has passed already.¡± Fang Chen sighed inwardly. ¡°The changes I¡¯ve experienced in this past year outweigh the entire twenty-three years before it.¡±


    In just one year, he had transformed from a cripple into a cultivator at the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm. Wherever he went from now on, he couldn¡¯t be said to be weak. After all, the majority of the world''s poption were ordinary mortals.


    Jiang Zhong approached Fang Chen with Jiang Tianai. "Sect Leader Fang, up ahead is the Qinghu Empire. Once we pass through Qinghu, we''ll arrive at Grand Qian,¡± he said, his eyes rife with gratitude.


    It had been ten days since they left the me Empire, and in this time, Jiang Zhong had been able to finally ascertain that Fang Chen had no connection to the Spirit Blood Sect. Not only that, but he hadn¡¯t shown any interest in their family since that one time he asked them about it. Even if he had questions to ask, they weren¡¯t about their family. He didn¡¯t seem to covet their inheritance.


    ¡°Speaking of Qinghu, have you ever heard of the Blood Corpse Sect?" asked Fang Chen casually.


    "Blood Corpse Sect?" Jiang Zhong''s expression changed, and he nodded slightly. "I do know about them. Their disciples practice corpse refining techniques. They control corpses to fight for them, and there are different levels of corpses, such as Walking Corpses, Copper-Armored Corpses, Iron-Armored Corpses, Golden-Armored Corpses, and Flying Corpses. They all differ in strength.


    ¡°It¡¯s rumored that the Copper-Armored Corpse controlled by the Blood Corpse Sect Leader is indestructible. Even a mid-grade, yellow rank treasure with thirty-six Soul Imprints would not be able to destroy it"


    Fang Chen then turned to Jiang Zhong and smiled. "I really wasn¡¯t wrong about you,¡± he said. ¡°How do you know so much about these sects with your sixth stage Qi Refining Realm cultivation?¡±


    Jiang Zhong hesitated for a moment before retrieving an ancient book from his storage ring and handing it to Fang Chen. "Sect Leader Fang, this book is called Mirror of the Universe. It is an extremely mysterious treasure and its grade is unknown."


    Fang Chen flipped through the ancient book, but he found its contents far from how Jiang Zhong had described them; there wasn¡¯t anything mysterious about it.


    "A special technique is needed to activate it, which is why Immortal Sea wasn¡¯t able to discover it." Jiang Zhong sighed. "We have had some ancient books passed down in our family, but they''re all gone now."


    "Don''t be sad, Uncle Zhong. I memorized them all. I can recite them for you anytime," Jiang Tianaiforted him.


    Jiang Zhong froze, then he couldn¡¯t help shooting Fang Chen an embarrassed look.


    "I''m not very interested in your ancient books," Fang Chen chuckled, his gaze falling on the Mirror of the Universe. "So, how do you use this?"


    Jiang Zhong immediately transmitted the method.


    After a while, Fang Chen imbued his spiritual energy through his palm and into the Mirror of the Universe. Soon, the writings on the book seemed to havee alive, swimming like fish in water. After a dozen or so breaths, the contents of the bookpletely changed.


    <strong>The first page: Mirror of the Universe</strong>


    <strong>The second page: Records of Famous Sect Ancestors </strong>


    <strong>The third page: Emperor''s Ranking</strong>


    <strong>The fourth page: Spiritual Treasure Ranking</strong>


    Fang Chen''s eyes shed with shock. This Mirror of the Universe actually had records of Sect Ancestors? He tried to see the contents but found that no matter how he focused, he couldn''t see it clearly. The writing on it seemed to blur, bing even more indistinct the harder he tried to see it.


    Returning his divine soul to his body, Fang Chen closed the Mirror of the Universe and handed it back to Jiang Zhong. "I can''t see the first few pages clearly."


    "Sect Leader Fang, I can''t see the first few pages either. I don''t even know what they contain. However, I can see theter pages, so it should be rted to one''s cultivation level,¡± replied Jiang Zhong. He looked at Fang Chen¡¯s outstretched hand but didn¡¯t take Mirror of the Universe back.


    Fang Chen was surprised. "What''s wrong?"


    Jiang Zhong''s expression became solemn. "Sect Leader Fang, you¡¯ve saved our lives. We¡¯re indebted to you. You¡¯ve even helped us reach the Grand Qian Empire. I have no way to repay you, so please ept the Mirror of the Universe."


    "You want to give me this?" Fang Chen''s expression was strange. "This looks like a pretty valuable treasure... Are you sure about this?"


    "No matter how extraordinary it is, it cannotpare to the life of my youngdy." Jiang Zhong nced at Jiang Tianai, then nodded solemnly. "Sect Leader Fang, please take it."


    "You really didn¡¯t have to. I was the one who promised to send you here, and I only did as I said I¡¯d do.¡± Fang Chen smiled. "But since I might find this useful, I''ll ept it,¡± he agreed. ¡°In return, if there''s anything you need help withter on, just let me know."


    "Thank you!" eximed Jiang Zhong in excitement. He had thought that giving the Mirror of the Universe away would ensure their full protection. However, he didn¡¯t expect to also receive an unexpected promise, which was extremely crucial for them in their current plight.


    Next, Jiang Zhong shared some insights he had gained from studying the Mirror of the Universe. Besides the first twenty pages¡ªwhere he couldn''t see anything written on them¡ªthe words on each subsequent page kept changing. But it didn¡¯t change to whatever one wanted to see, but it shifted randomly, so one could only read whatever it decided to settle on. That was how he had identallye across information about the Blood Corpse Sect.


    From Jiang Zhong¡¯s exnation, Fang Chen noticed that he didn''t know the titles of the first twenty pages.


    "You can¡¯t see what¡¯s written here?" Fang Chen pointed to the five words ¡°Records of Famous Sect Ancestors.¡±


    "I can''t see anything." Jiang Zhong shook his head, then asked curiously, "Can you?"


    "More or less,¡± answered Fang Chen with a smile. ¡°This page should be recording the world¡¯s Sect Ancestors.¡±


    "Whoa..." Jiang Zhong took a sharp breath, exchanging a nce with Jiang Tianai.


    They were the first ancient family, so they naturally knew what the term ¡®Sect Ancestor¡¯ represented. However, the Jiang Family had been in sharp decline for countless years. Even though the Mirror of the Universe had never been lost, it had been many, many years since the family had anyone who could see what was written in the first twenty pages.


    After all, over the past few years, the Jiang Family had only been able to produce a single Foundation Building Realm cultivator, and even that ancestor couldn''t decipher the writings on the first twenty pages.


    Jiang Zhong suddenly regretted proffering the book to Fang Chen. The Mirror of the Universe had turned out to be more important than he had imagined. However, since the item had already been given away, he couldn''t ask for it back, and could only console himself.


    "What exactly is written on it, Sect Leader Fang?" Jiang Tianai asked curiously as she leaned her head forward.


    Seeing her curiosity, Fang Chen couldn''t help but smile. "I only managed to make out a few words. I couldn''t see the specific content either, probably due to my low cultivation." He was also curious about what was recorded on it, but even with his strong divine soul, he could only see the titles. It indicated that the Mirror of the Universe wasn''t meant for ordinary cultivators. Perhaps one would need to at least be in the middle three realms to see what¡¯s written.


    The ship had approached the shore by now.


    It had begun to snow heavily, so the port seemed to have been covered in a sea of white.


    Hardly had they approachednd when Fang Chen¡¯s brow furrowed. "Something''s not right,¡± he muttered. ¡°Why is the demonic qi here so thick?"


    He scanned his eyes around the port only to notice that there were many demons disembarking from ships. Most of these demons were as powerful as Victorious Buddha, some even stronger.

 Chapter 295: Who Do You Think You Are?

    <h4>Chapter 295: Who Do You Think You Are?</h4>


    Fang Chen remained calm and led Jiang Zhong and Jiang Tianai off the ship. There were mortals, cultivators, and an abnormally high number of demons at the port.


    It didn¡¯t take much for Fang Chen to notice that the Qinghu Empire seemed to be dominated by demons.


    Suddenly, a tall and imposing figure d in ck armor approached them. He towered over the three as his eyes were fixed on them, from above. ¡°Where are you from?¡± he asked. ¡°What¡¯s your names, too? I¡¯ll register them.¡±


    Fang Chen scrutinized the demon before him. <i>He¡¯s an ape, just like Victorious Buddha, but he has a higher cultivation than him, probably around the seventh stage of the Qi Refining Realm. He can also talk, too. </i>


    There were many such like him around, all d in ck armor.


    "Fang Xiaotu, from the me Empire," said Fang Chen, deadpanned.


    The demon scribbled away on the register and added a few ticks. He then turned to Jiang Zhong and Jiang Tianai.


    The two naturally didn¡¯t divulge their true names and used aliases instead.


    After he was done registering them, the demon sternly began, "Our ruler has dered that foreign cultivators cannot under any circumstances act against any demon of the empire, or else they¡¯ll pay a steep price. Our empire is different from other empires, so if you see or experience anything that you don¡¯t like, I hope you can tolerate it and not make things difficult for us."


    Fang Chen smiled. "What is there for us to dislike?"


    The figure smiled lightly but didn¡¯t borate. He left, walking toward another group.


    Jiang Zhong sent a voice transmission. ¡®<i>Sect Leader Fang, there must beckeys of the Spirit Blood Sect here. We shouldn''t stay here for long.</i>¡¯


    Fang Chen nodded. He grabbed them and transformed into a streak of sword light, shooting into the sky and heading toward the direction of the Grand Qian Empire.


    The ape-like demon who had just registered them frowned slightly upon seeing that. "Was that the Rainbow Transformation Technique? Or the Sword Maniption Technique?"


    Even though the Qinghu Empire was a sixth-tier empire that was on par with the me Empire, its territory was vast. Fang Chen flew for five days and six nights, resting only three times for an hour each, yet he still couldn¡¯t fly out of a single state!


    If this was the me Empire, he would¡¯ve already flown from Qingzhou to Xuzhou, and made a roundtrip, too. The Qinghu Empire was easily two times bigger, or even four times bigger, than the me Empire. However, unlike the me Empire, it didn¡¯t have many cities. There were endless mountain ranges and ancient forests, instead. The environment here was excellent for wild beasts, and there was asional demonic qi surging in various ces.


    "It seems there''s a market down ahead,¡± said Fang Chen as he began to slow down and descend.


    He could see a huge, bustling market in the distance a few miles away. It was filled with cultivators and demons, mingling together.


    Fang Chen had around 14000 low-grade spirit stones on him, as well as quite a few high-grade Purple Lightning Talismans.


    Little Sword had been hungry for a while now, and that market seemed big enough. He could buy some food for Little Sword as well as buy talisman materials for himself, so, with a flicker of sword light, Fang Chennded at the entrance of the market with the other two.


    The passing cultivators couldn''t help but cast them nces.


    "I need to buy some stuff. Half a day should be enough time.¡± Fang Chen smiled. ¡°Take a look around and see if there''s anything you need, I''ll buy it for you."


    Jiang Zhong nodded heavily and walked behind Fang Chen. He was really anxious; the demons of the Qinghue Empire weren¡¯t particrly fond of humans. But anxious as he was, he didn¡¯t dare rush Fang Chen. Because of their low cultivation, he could only pull Jiang Tianai a little closer and stick to Fang Chen.


    The market was packed with stalls, and many people were stopping to browse and haggle with the owners. But these stalls couldn''t supply him withrge quantities of spiritual materials, so these weren¡¯t Fang Chen targets.


    After the time it took to brew a cup of tea passed, Fang Chen stopped in front of a building with threerge words engraved on a que.


    <i>Heavenly Treasure Pavilion.</i>


    Fang Chen smiled. <i>Looks like I have a bit of fate with the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion.</i>


    Upon entering the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion, a human store clerk came forward to wee them, but his face was quite cold. Giving the three a cursory look, he casually asked, ¡°What¡¯re you looking for?¡±


    "Spiritual materials and treasures," replied Fang Chen.


    "What kind of spiritual materials and treasures do you want? We have forty-seven types of yellow rank, low-grade spiritual materials. Tell me which one you need, and I''ll see if we have it in stock," said the store clerk impatiently.


    Fang Chen furrowed his brow slightly. "I don''t want yellow ranked low-grade spiritual materials. I want yellow rank, middle-grade or high-grade spiritual materials. Do you have any here?¡± mouthed Fang Chen. ¡°If not, I''ll look somewhere else."


    Fang Chen had noticed that customers around were mostly demons, and the store clerks that tended to them spoke to them very warmly. This store clerk didn¡¯t treat him simrly, however.


    "Yellow rank, mid-grade or higher?" The store clerk was taken aback, and his eyes narrowed. "Yellow rank, mid-grade spiritual materials are not cheap. Which specific types are you looking for?"


    "I''ll take whatever you have, regardless of the type. And if you''re short on spiritual materials, I''ll also take treasures."


    Jiang Zhong was quite confused with Fang Chen¡¯s behavior and couldn¡¯t help but wonder if he was an Artifact Master, perhaps? Only an Artifact Master would purchase spiritual materials in bulk. For ordinary cultivators, it was more practical to buy treasures directly.


    The store clerk¡¯s eyes grew even more mocking, and he said, "You sound quite confident in your skills, customer. Follow me.¡± He then led Fang Chen and the others to the warehouse in the backyard.


    Various spiritual materials were arranged in the warehouse, and Fang Chen even saw refined Moon Sinking Gold among them. These spiritual materials filled almost half of the warehouse.


    "There are a dozen or so yellow rank mid-grade spiritual materials. Judging by the quantity here, I estimate they are worth at least six thousand low-grade spiritual stones. Can you afford them all?" asked the store clerk with jest.


    Suddenly, a middle-aged man walked over, seemingly confused. "Qin Wei, what''s going on here? Why did you bring a customer to the warehouse?"


    Qin Wei gave a smirk. "Shopkeeper Lin, this customer here said he wanted to purchase yellow rank mid grade spiritual materials, and he wanted as many as possible, so I brought him to our warehouse to have a look.¡±


    Shopkeeper Lin was startled. "As many as possible?" he repeated, sizing up Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen pointed at the yellow rank, mid grade spiritual materials up ahead. "Pack all these spiritual materials up for me and give me the price."


    Qin Wei¡¯s smile stiffened a little, and taken aback, he said, ¡°Dear customer, we don¡¯t joke around when ites to transactions here. If you make an order and fail to pay, you¡¯ll be thrown outside the store, which can be very embarrassing, I must say.¡±


    "Who do you think you are?¡± Fang Chen frowned. ¡°Do I even know you? You think I came here just to joke around with you?"


    Qin Wei was taken aback, and the people around couldn''t help but look over, their eyes filled with curiosity. Many customers had lost their temper at the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion, but none had a good ending. In the end, they all ended up embarrassing themselves.


    Qin Wei''s blood surged, his face turning red as he stared at Fang Chen. "What did you just say?"


    Fang Chen turned to Shopkeeper Lin. ¡°You¡¯re the shopkeeper, right?¡± he said. ¡°Is this how the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion conducts its business? Is this how you treat your customers? I¡¯ve noticed that you are very polite when dealing with demons, but rather neglectful toward human cultivators. What''s the meaning of this?"

 Chapter 296: From Arrogance to Respect

    <h4>Chapter 296: From Arrogance to Respect</h4>


    Fang Chen''s words caused some of the demons who had been selecting spiritual materials in the warehouse to turn their heads.


    Their eyes were mocking.


    One of the demons, a walking, upright crocodile, had extremely thick blood qi, and a stature of about a dozen meters high. It was so big, humans seemed like three year olds inparison.


    "This is the Qinghu Empire.¡± It sneered. ¡°Here, we demons are like nobles. What are you humans? Are you even worthy ofparing yourselves with us?"


    A demon cultivator chuckled. "Hehehe... Let''s eat him when we leave."


    Qin Wei, who had been pale, couldn''t help but show a hint of joy at these words.


    Seeing that, Shopkeeper Lin first cated the group of demon cultivators, then looked at Fang Chen. ¡°I am assuming you¡¯re here in the Qinghu Empire for the first time, so you don¡¯t know how it is around here. Fortunately, you only said this in the Heavenly Treasure Pavillion. If you say such things out in the street, you¡¯ll attract unnecessary trouble to yourself.¡± Pausing for a moment, he continued, "You said you wanted to buy this batch of yellow rank, mid-grade spiritual materials, right? Qin Wei, calcte the bill."


    ¡°Yes, Shopkeeper Lin." Qin Wei sneered and started to crunch the numbers.


    The highest the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion had ever made on a single sale was about a thousand low-grade spirit stones. Now six thousand? That might already be half a month¡¯s turnover.


    They didn''t believe that the human cultivator in front of them could fish out six thousand low-grade spirit stones.


    After about ten minutes, Qin Wei looked at Fang Chen. "The total value of the yellow rank mid-grade spiritual materials here is six thousand four hundred and thirty-six low-grade spirit stones. I can round it down for you to six thousand four hundred and thirty lower-grade spiritual stones."


    Shopkeeper Lin smiled, "Alright, pay up."


    Fang Chen waved his hand lightly, and a neat pile of low-grade spirit stones appeared in front of him.


    The atmosphere in the warehouse suddenly became somewhat awkward.


    The demons who had just been mocking Fang Chen earlier turned serious, and their gazes toward Fang Chen no longer dared to be disrespectful.


    Even if he was a human cultivator, the fact that he had six thousand spirit stones meant that he wasn¡¯t to be trifled with.


    The demon who had suggested to his friend that they should perhaps eat Fang Chen quickly whispered a few words to his pal and skedaddled out of the shop.


    The first demon who mocked Fang Chen followed right behind them, walking in shame.


    They could leave, and that was that; however, Qin Wei didn¡¯t have the same luxury. When he saw the pile of spirit stones that had appeared, his face turned red. He knew it wasing.


    Shopkeep Lin turned to Qin Wei and began, scolding, "Qin Wei, how many times have I told you? We treat our customers with sincerity and patience. That¡¯s the reason our establishment has been able to make it in all the major empires," he said. "You can forget about your sry this month. Get out."


    "Yes..." Qin Wei left with his head hanging low.


    Fang Chen¡¯s lips curved a little. ¡°I know you have stores in all of the major empires. You don¡¯t have to try so hard to remind me of your establishment¡¯s foundations.¡±


    Shopkeeper Lin was taken aback. A hint of embarrassment appeared on his face.


    Fang Chen had picked up on what he was insinuating¡ªwhich was a bit of a threat, honestly. He just didn¡¯t want the situation to escte.


    "I''m here today to do business with you, not to make enemies. Count the spirit stones," said Fang Chen, storing the spiritual materials into his storage rings. He managed to fill up two storage rings. Apart from the storage ring where he stored the Purple Lightning Talisman and the low-grade spirit stones, he still had four storage rings on him. He gave the rest to Liu Mu and the others.


    Shopkeeper Lin immediately began to count the spirit tones. After about ten minutes, he nodded at Fang Chen and smiled. "The amount is correct. Is there anything else you need? I can personally show you around the warehouse."


    "How many mid-grade, yellow rank treasures do you have," asked Fang Chen.


    Shopkeeper Lin was immediately stunned. Was he nning on buying treasure in blunk, too!


    Jiang Zhong and Jiang Tianai were both stunned silly. Hadn¡¯t he just spent a whopping six thousand spirit stones? He wanted to buy treasures now? Wasn¡¯t he a little too rich!


    <i>Oh, right, he took over the Sea Dragon Sect. I reckon most of these spirit stonese from there, </i>spected Jiang Zhong.


    Noticing that the shopkeeper had fallen silent, Fang Chen prompted, "Shopkeeper Lin?"


    "We have 13 yellow rank, mid-grade treasures up for sale," said Shopkeeper Lin, "They¡¯ll cost you around five thousand low-grade spirit stones to buy them all.¡±


    Fang Chen nodded. "I¡¯ll take them." WIth a wave, he took out the appropriate amount.


    Shopkeeper Lin inwardly gasped. <i>First over six thousand, and now another five thousand...!</i>


    He immediately put on a warm smile, "Please wait a moment. I''ll go fetch the treasures. They''re quite valuable and aren''t kept in the warehouse."


    "Wait a moment," Fang Chen interjected, "Do you happen to have yellow rank high-grade treasures, too?"


    Yellow rank, high-grade treasures?


    Astonishment shed in everyone''s eyes. Who exactly was this customer? He was so extravagant! He even wanted to buy yellow rank high-grade treasures! Those treasures were used by Golden Core Realm cultivators, and their pricing started at one to two thousand low-grade spirit stones. The fines of these treasures could fetch eight thousand low-grade spirit stones!


    But that wasn''t the most important part. The crucial point was that even the lousiest yellow rank, high-grade treasures had at least thirty-seven Soul Imprints, so it was quite challenging to activate them, especially for those at the Foundation Building Realm. If one wasn¡¯t at the grandpletion stage, then it was nearly impossible to fully unleash their power, making it aplete waste of spirit stones! Unless... he had a Golden Core Realm expert backing him up who was capable of using such treasures!


    At that thought, Shopkeeper Lin''s gaze toward Fang Chen became more respectful. A Golden Core Realm cultivator was highly regarded, even in the eyes of the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion.


    " He can fish out so many spirit stones at once and he wants to buy yellow rank, high-grade treasures....¡±


    To those in the shop, it seemed as thought they were watching some scion of a top-tier noble family pick out treasure to celebrate an ancestor¡¯s birthday.


    "He must be from a fifth-tier empire. Maybe a fourth-tier one, even."


    "We... we don¡¯t sell yellow rank, high-grade treasures in our Qinghu Empire branches. If you want to buy such treasures, you¡¯ll have to visit our branch in the Grand Qian Empire," exined Shopkeeper Lin cautiously, not daring to be negligent. Pausing for a moment, he continued, "You can also participate in the trade conference. I heard that in a few months, there will be a trade conference hosted by a fourth-tier empire''s chamber ofmerce in the Grand Qian Empire. At that time, there might be even peak yellow rank treasures avable...."


    <i>Trade conference?</i>


    Fang Chen''s eyes lit up. Elder Jin Nan had mentioned that they bought the Spiritual Measuring Bell at a trade conference. It was a trade event tailored for lower-tier empires, allowing them to purchase some spiritual materials that were usually unobtainable. If he could really acquire peak yellow rank treasures, he believed that just one of them might be enough to advance Little Sword once again!


    Treasures were forms of spiritual materials. If he had enough spirit stones, he¡¯d be willing to buy them until his spiritual ring couldn¡¯t take anymore.


    "Shopkeeper Lin, go and get the treasures first. You can tell me more about the trade conferenceter," said Fang Chen.


    "Yes, please wait a moment." Shopkeeper Lin nodded hurriedly and quickly left.

 Chapter 297: Xia Ji?!

    <h4>Chapter 297: Xia Ji?!</h4>


    After about a quarter of an hour, Shopkeeper Lin hurried back and theypleted the transaction. Most of the treasures had around twenty Soul Imprints. Only one had thirty Soul Imprints.


    ording to Shopkeeper Lin, this was their shop¡¯s most treasured item, and it made up for nearly one-fifth of the entire bill.


    Having spent over eleven thousand low-grade spirit stones in one go, Fang Chen nced at his storage ring. His low-grade spirit stones had dwindled from over sixteen thousand to around five thousand. While it seemed like a hefty expenditure, in reality, he had nearly emptied the treasury of this Heavenly Treasure Pavilion. For him, spirit stones were only valuable when they were being used for cultivation, they were worthless otherwise.


    "Shopkeeper Lin, I also need spiritual materials for talismans. Do you happen to have any?" inquired Fang Chen casually.


    "Spiritual materials for talismans? Yes, we do. May I ask what grade you''re looking for? Would yellow rank mid-grade suffice?" asked Shopkeeper Lin quite eagerly.


    "Those will do.¡± Fang Chen nodded with a smile. His previous set of materials was at best considered normal among yellow rank low-grade, not even reaching the mid-grade. Even so, he could easily make peak-grade Purple Lightning Talismans. He¡¯d buy the yellow rank, mid-grade materials just in case he stumbled upon an inheritance of some yellow rank, mid grade talismans. However, most of these were closely guarded secrets, and whether he could obtain them depended on luck.


    Soon, aplete set of materials was presented before Fang Chen.


    One talisman brush, two hundred talisman papers, and one catty of cinnabar. Those three types of spiritual materials emitted a strong aura, subtly exuding the power of fire.


    "To be honest, this set of materials has already been reserved. However, considering the substantial business we¡¯ve made today, I''ll take the liberty of selling this set to you," said Shopkeeper Lin with a smile. "This set of materials is filled with the power of fire. If they are used to make fire-type talismans, their stability will be exceptionally high, and their power will also be enhanced."


    Fang Chen pondered for a moment, then handed over a total of two thousand low-grade spirit stones. The talisman brush was worth three hundred, the cinnabar was worth three hundred, leaving one thousand six hundred for the purchase of the talisman papers. Each talisman paper was priced at an astonishing eight low-grade spirit stones. It''s worth noting that these were just talisman papers, not talismans, yet their value was alreadyparable to mid-grade Purple Lightning Talismans.


    Seeing Fang Chen''s direct attitude, Shopkeeper Lin became even more convinced of his extraordinary background. He was even convinced that the Fang Chan had a mid-grade talisman inheritance. After all, who would be willing to spend such arge sum of money to buy talisman materials if they didn¡¯t have one, right?


    Next, Fang Chen and his twopanions were invited by Shopkeeper Lin to an elegant room where he talked to them in detail about the uing trade conference that¡¯ll be held in the Grand Qian Empire¡¯s capital, in a few months.


    "I heard that the organizers are from the fourth-tier empire, Azure Cloud. It is said to be jointly organized by the three major sects within the Azure Cloud Empire." Shopkeeper Lin sighed. "They''ve sent out many invitations, and there will be cultivators from over thirty fifth-tier empires and hundreds of sixth-tier empires attending. It¡¯ll be the most grand event that has happened in the Grand Qian Empire in nearly two hundred years."


    Jiang Zhong''s expression changed slightly; the more lively the Grand Qian Empire was, the more unfavorable it was for them.


    Fang Chen fell into thought. If the trade conference was indeed as grand as Shopkeeper Lin had described, then it might be possible for him to obtain yellow rank high-grade treasures there. He needed to set aside some spirit stones before the conference opened to avoid embarrassmentter on.


    Suddenly, the door flew open and Qin Wei scrambled in."Shopkeeper Lin, someone has taken hostages outside our shop," he said. He kept his eyes fixed on the ground, not daring to look at Fang Chen and hispanions.


    "Who dares to cause trouble at our Heavenly Treasure Pavilion?" Shopkeeper Lin''s face immediately darkened and the aura of a Foundation Building Realm emanated from him, putting pressure on Jiang Zhong, Jiang Tianai and Qin Wei.


    "I think it¡¯s someone from the Grand Qian Empire,¡± said Qin Wei in a low voice, ¡°but his cultivation is not high and is only at the fourth level of the Qi Refining Realm. And the one confronting him... seems to be from the Qinghu imperial family.¡±


    From the Grand Qian Empire? Shopkeeper Lin was surprised. That was a fifth-tier empire. A cultivator pursued by the Qinghu imperial family was only at the fourth stage of the Qi Refining Realm?


    He suddenly felt ill at ease. He really didn¡¯t want to get the pavilion involved in any kind of conflict.


    Shopkeeper Lin immediately expressed his apologies to Fang Chen and hastily left to have a look.


    "We should leave too," Fang Chen said to Jiang Zhong and Jiang Tianai with a slight smile.


    Jiang Zhong immediately felt relieved. The sooner they arrived in Grand Qian, the better.


    The entrance of the shop was blocked by a crowd. A young man in white had a woman tightly held with a sword to her snowy neck. The de had already pierced her fair skin, causing blood to ooze out.


    In front of them were women dressed in green. They all bore a striking resemnce to humans, with the only difference being the fox tails protruding from their backs. Many demons were now ring angrily at the young man in white, some even beginning to curse loudly:


    "What audacity! How dare you hold a member of our imperial family hostage! Release her immediately!"


    "I''ll skin him alive and feast on his flesh! How dare a mere human cause trouble on our territory!"


    "Even if you''re from Grand Qian, you won''t leave here alive!"


    "Xia Ji, are you listening?¡± said the woman held hostage. ¡°Release me now! I can plead with my mother to spare your life."


    There were two fox tails swaying behind here. It was clear that the woman was of noble status.


    The anger among the demons intensified at the mention of her mother. The one taken hostage was none other than the princess of their empire!


    "Release the princess!" scolded one of the fox women dressed in green indignantly.


    "Don''t take me for a fool.¡± Xia Ji smirked. ¡°If I release her, you will kill me on the spot."


    "Prepare an immortal boat for me immediately. I know your family can get it done quickly. Send me away from the Qinghu Empire, and I''ll release your princess. Otherwise, don''t me me for being impolite. I''ll cut off her head with a sh. She''s only at the third stage of Qi Refining Realm, while I''m at the fourth. Trust me, I can definitely do it."


    Shopkeeper Lin and Qin Wei hurried out of the shop door. Upon hearing Xia Ji''s words, Shopkeeper Lin angrily shouted, "Who do you think you are? Release the princess immediately! Harm her in the slightest and your whole family will be exterminated!"


    "You¡¯re the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion¡¯s shopkeeper? Prepare an immortal boat for me, or I''ll kill the princess right here.¡± Xia Ji chuckled. ¡°If you don¡¯t, you can forget about your having a business in this empire from this day on.¡±


    The crowd was startled, curiosity shing in their eyes. It seemed that the hostage-taker had already set his eyes on the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion. While other ces might not sell immortal boats, there was a high probability that the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion did.


    "Xia Ji, you can''t escape. The one who actually wants to capture you is Big Brother Jue." The princess suddenly spoke up. "Release me, and I can guarantee that I won¡¯t pursue you anymore. After all, you won''t be able to escape from his grasp."


    "Don''t waste my time, little girl.¡± Xia Ji nced coldly at the princess, his tone resolute. ¡°I thought I could get away safely with the help of your connections, but who knew you''d be in cahoots with that guy. The only way you can live today is by doing as I say."


    Fang Chen was stepping out from the store when he suddenly saw what was happening.


    <i>Xia Ji? Xia Ji is actually here?</i>


    Despite Fang Chen''s excellent control over his emotions, his heart couldn''t help but skip a beat.

 Chapter 298: Binding Talisman

    <h4>Chapter 298: Binding Talisman</h4>


    Fang Chen didn''t rush to intervene. He chose to watch for now.


    Seeing that Fang Chen was just watching the excitement, Jiang Zhong didn''t say anything and waited quietly beside Jiang Tianai


    Fang Chen¡¯s divine soul left his body and stood in the void.


    Although Fang Chen had been able to recognize Xia Ji, that didn¡¯t mean that he didn¡¯t change. In fact, he changed so much that he almost seemed like a different person altogether. Xia Ji used to be full of vigor. He always had everything under control no matter what. He was the only person who Fang Chen truly felt connected to; they shared the same views and were very simr in many ways, and they regarded each other as lifelong confidants.


    Xia Ji was a prince, but he wasn¡¯t the man to look people down his nose, nor was extravagant in his life, he never even thought of vying for the throne¡ªwhich was why Xia Xuanji had been very fond of him. The same couldn¡¯t have been said about Xia Yu, however, for he had both feared and detested this brother of his.


    Xia Ji''s aura now was pretty impressive, having reached the cultivation level of the fourth stage of the Qi Refining Realm; however, the weariness between his brows was enough to prove that it hadn¡¯t been a smooth-sailing ride for him.


    <i>He¡¯s at the fourth stage of the Qi Refining Realm... It seems that Xia Ji started cultivating early.</i>


    "Shopkeeper Lin, thisdy in my hand is the ruler¡¯s most beloved daughter, the apple of his eye. If you don''t want anything to happen to her, I suggest you prepare an immortal boat for me as soon as possible," threatened Xia Ji, his sword pressing at the woman¡¯s neck.


    Shopkeeper Lin was conflicted. Immortal boats were notmon; a cultivator didn¡¯t need to use their life essence to refine them, and they could carry people through the air effortlessly. There wasn¡¯t anyone in sixth-tier empires who could refine them, all of them came from fourth-tier and fifth-tier empires. That''s why an immortal boat with twelve Soul Imprints of the lower grade might be as valuable as a yellow rank, mid-grade treasure with thirty Soul Imprints.


    While he did have one, the store used it to transport its goods. It simply wasn¡¯t for sale. That¡¯s why Shopkeeper Lin was extremely hesitant to do as told. If he gave the hostage-taker the boat, he¡¯d be making a huge loss here. But if he didn¡¯t give him the boat, and something happened to the princess, the most beloved princess, then the Heavenly Treasure Pavillion wouldn¡¯t be able to run its business in the Qinghu Empire anymore!


    The temperament of demons was different from that of human cultivators; theycked flexibility. If they were to be really angry, they wouldn¡¯t care about those behind the pavilion, even if they were from a fourth-tier empire.


    "Xia Ji,¡± shouted the princess suddenly, ¡°you¡¯ve caused trouble in the Grand Qian capital! Big Brother Jue is just trying to help you! Why do you want to run away? He won''t take your life. It doesn¡¯t have toe to this, things will only get worse if you do this!"


    "Littless, what do you know? Jue Wudi may appear righteous on the surface, but he''s actually quite sinister behind that mask of his. Senior Brother Liu just went out to pick medicinal herbs, and now he went missing. Senior Sister Wu was inexplicably attacked, causing her cultivation to sink down." Xia Ji sneered. "Jue Wudi did all of this. Should I stick around and wait till hees after me too?¡±


    The princess frowned. "Those were all just idents. Big Brother Jue wouldn¡¯t possibly do that. He isn¡¯t that kind of person. How could a man who has stepped onto the Foundation Realm at forty be as sinister as you paint him out to be?"


    "There¡¯s no point in talking to you. I know you''re stalling for time. I''ll give you ten breaths. If I don''t get an answer, I will destroy everything here," dered Xia Ji.


    The princess and the fox women''s expressions changed slightly. They vaguely felt that Xia Ji would really follow through with his words.


    Shopkeeper Lin frowned, and after a few moments of contemtion, he nodded.


    Shopkeeper Lin said, "All right, I will prepare an immortal boat for you. But it is currently not here. Give me fifteen minutes."


    Suddenly, a figure broke through the air. He stood in the void as he overlooked everyone from up above. With a mocking tone, he began, "Shopkeeper Lin, you, a Foundation Building Realm cultivator, are being threatened by a mere Qi Refining Realm cultivator?"


    This man wore a purple robe, and his imposing figure was like a mountain. His thick eyebrows resembled swords, his nose was straight, and his starry eyes gleamed. Particrly noticeable on his forehead was a prominent red mole. As soon as he appeared, everyone below felt a heavy pressure pressing down on them, making it difficult to breathe.


    The expressions of the crowd changed.


    "Demon King Tianfeng!"


    Among the thirteen demon kings in Qinghu Empire, he was ranked in the top five and was a mid-stage Foundation Building Realm cultivator!


    The princess was surprised to see him, but she quickly called out. "Uncle Tianfeng!"


    The fox women let out sighs of relief. Now that Demon King Tianfeng was here, the princess¡¯s safety was basically guaranteed. After all, Demon King Tianfeng had once fought against three human cultivators of the same level and had not been at a disadvantage.


    The Qinghu ruler had personally stated that Demon King Tianfeng was exceptionally talented and was a rare genius. There was even hope for him to reach the Golden Core Realm in the future!


    "So it''s Demon King Tianfeng." Shopkeeper Lin sped his hands together and didn''t mind the sarcasm. He felt relieved, if anything. "I''ll leave this to you."


    Demon King Tianfeng nced at him with a smile that wasn''t quite a smile, then turned his gaze to Xia Ji, his eyes cold with a hint of disdain. "Your name is Xia Ji, right? I heard your master is the abbot of Profound Void Temple in the Grand Qian Empire?"


    "Huh? Xia Ji''s master is a monk?" Fang Chen was surprised. There was nothing on Xia Ji that hinted at any affiliation with Buddhism, not even his aura. "How could his master possibly be a monk?"


    "I''m just a lowly fourth stage Qi Refining Realm cultivator. I never expected Demon King Tianfeng to personally intervene in this matter," Xia Ji said, his eyes showing deep apprehension. "Yes, indeed, my master is the abbot of the Profound Void Temple. So what?"


    "I have an enmity with that bald donkey, so of course it matters." Tianfeng Demon King chuckled. "How about this, if you release the princess, I''ll leave your corpse in one piece."


    Xia Ji sneered. "Ridiculous! It¡¯s all or nothing today! Either I leave alive, or everything burns to the ground. Don''t think just because you''re at the mid-stage Foundation Building Realm, you can rescue her. The sword in my hand will behead her before you kill me."


    The princess''s face turned pale, and she stared fiercely at Xia Ji.


    The surrounding demons were furious, cursing at Xia Ji and threatening him incessantly as if they were ready to swarm him and tear him apart into a thousand pieces. Xia Ji, however, showed no fear. Instead, his smile grew even wider. "The more you curse me, the happier I am! I feel better than ever!"


    Qin Wei sneered. "This guy is definitely going to die today."


    Shopkeeper Lin shook his head slightly and leaned down to whisper to Qin Wei, who was beside him, "That¡¯s naturally the only oue for those who provoke demons in the Qinghu Empire, much less the descendants of the imperial family.¡±


    "I was going to let you die with a bit of dignity, but since you''re so unwilling to have it that way, so be it." Demon King Tianfeng chuckled lightly. He secretly ignited a talisman behind his back. The talisman shimmered with a blue light, then in the next moment, it circled from behind Demon King Tianfeng and struck Xia Ji like a bolt of lightning.


    Xia Ji was surprised to find that he suddenly couldn¡¯t move!


    Cold sweat dripped from his forehead.


    All of that was observed by Fang Chen''s divine soul, but he didn''t intervene because he didn''t sense any threat when the Demon King Tianfeng ignited the talisman.


    Demon King Tianfeng chuckled. "This Binding Talisman can restrain a Foundation Building Realm cultivator for a quarter of an hour. It''spletely silent at activation, too. What a waste that I had to use it on you."


    The crowd was shocked.


    A Binding Talisman?


    The demons couldn¡¯t help but sh Xia Ji a smirk. You¡¯re done for!

 Chapter 299: Over My Dead Body

    <h4>Chapter 299: Over My Dead Body</h4>


    All demon cultivators in the Qinghu Empire were aware that besides the fact that Demon King Tianfeng had exceptional talent, he had also stumbled upon a talisman inheritance, and was proficient in several types of yellow rank, mid-grade talismans, and among them was the Binding Talisman.


    The Binding Talisman had yed a crucial role back that one time when Demon King Tianfeng fought those three cultivators at the same realm. Once a fourth stage Qi Refining Realm cultivator like Xia Ji was bound by the Binding Talisman, there was basically no chance that he¡¯d be able to break free.


    The princess let out a deep breath of relief. Gently moving away from Xia Ji''s grip, she turned around and faced him, then delivered two ps squarely on his face.


    <i>p! p! </i>


    Xia Ji''s cheeks turned red from the hits, but he remainedpletely motionless, unable to retaliate. He could only stare at the princess with cold eyes.


    Demon King Tianfeng shed andnded next to the princess. "You can¡¯t be so careless again, little girl. You¡¯d have been in grave danger if the ruler hadn¡¯t asked me to look after you,¡± he reminded dotingly.


    The princess shot him an innocent smile and stuck out her tongue yfully. "Uncle Tianfeng, I was wrong...."


    "Your skills are as extraordinary as always, Demon King Tianfeng.¡± The shopkeeper immediately bowed with a smile.¡± If it were me saving the princess, I wouldn''t be able to guarantee that she¡¯ll be unharmed."


    Demon King Tianfeng chuckled lightly. "Even a slightly lower quality yellow rank mid-grade talisman like the Binding Talisman takes three months to bepleted. Even a Foundation Building cultivator would find it difficult to detect its aura before it¡¯s activated, which is why it was so easy to restrain this kid." Demon King Tianfeng looked at the princess. "This Binding Talisman could have been used on a Foundation Building cultivator, but now it was wasted on a fourth stage Qi Refining Realm cultivator. Little girl, how do you think you shouldpensate me?"


    "I will ask my mother to provide you with more talisman materials,¡± she said awkwardly. ¡°I don''t have the money topensate you for the talisman"


    Demon King Tianfeng chuckled.


    Xia Ji was watching them, frozen. There was a slight mncholy in his flickering eyes. He¡¯d most likely die here... in the Qianhu Empire.


    Xia Ji sighed in his heart. <i>What a pity. I had many things I wanted to do....</i>


    "Uncle Tianfeng, how do you n to deal with this kid? Why not hand him over to Big Brother Jue?" said the princess as her eyes drifted to Xia Ji, disdainful. ¡°"You''re such a despicable person for opposing Big Brother Jue and trying to nder him. You¡¯re disgusting."


    "The journey back is far, and it¡¯s not worth the trouble of taking him with us on the way. It¡¯s better if we just kill him here.¡± Demon King Tianfeng smirked coldly, sizing up Xia Ji. "How should I kill you? Should I dice you into eight pieces or should I slice you up?"


    Xia Ji wanted to curse loudly, but he was bound and couldn''t say a word. He could only re at Demon King Tianfeng. However, he showed no sign of fear. Even if he died, he would die standing. He would never kneel and beg to the likes of him.


    "Why don¡¯t we steam him, Demon King Tianfeng? Look at how tender his skin and flesh is, he must be very delicious to eat!" suggested a crocodile demon. It was the same upright crocodile that mocked Fang Chen in the store. it was staring at Xia Ji with gluttony.


    The Qinghu Empire had rules and demon cultivators were not allowed to eat human cultivators; however, there were always exceptions.


    "Yes, yes, let''s steam him, and boil his bones and flesh into soup!"


    "I think he¡¯ll turn out much more delicious fried!"


    One after another, the demon cultivators put forward their suggestions.


    Xia Ji cursed their ancestors countless times in his heart.


    The human cultivators around weren¡¯t happy to hear that they nned to eat Xia Ji, but they couldn¡¯t do anything about it, so they didn¡¯t give their displeasure voice. After all, Demon King Tianfeng was in no way easy to deal with. Even ordinary Foundation Building Realm cultivators had to be respectful when they encountered him.


    It was then that a faint voice rang out. "Does the Qinghu Empire allow such brazen consumption of humans?¡±


    Xia Ji was utterly stunned; he was too familiar with that voice!


    Fang Da? How could Fang Da be here?!


    Xia Ji desperately wanted to turn his head in the direction of the voice, but unfortunately, he was immobilized and couldn''t move. He was feeling extremely anxious; if this was really Fang Chen and he tried to help him, both of them would end up dying, not just him!


    Shopkeeper Lin was stunned briefly. He looked at Fang Chen with a strange expression.


    Qin Wei''s face looked somewhat ugly as he sent out a sound transmission, "<i>Shopkeeper Lin, this guy hasn¡¯t a clue about how it goes around here in this empire! Won¡¯t he drag us down with him?</i>"


    "<i>It''s fine. His backing seems pretty decent. Demon King Tianfeng might give him some face,</i>" Shopkeeper Lin transmitted back. After a pause, he added, "<i>Besides, he isn¡¯t someone from our pavilion, so this won¡¯t have anything to do with us.</i>¡±


    "That''s good then," muttered Qin Wei with some dissatisfaction.


    The blood leached from Jiang Zhong''s face. He was extremely surprised that Fang Chen would actually speak up right now. They were still within the borders of the Qinghu Empire and still had a long way to go before reaching the Grand Qian Empire. If they offended this demon king, then.... Jiang Zhong dared not imagine it. He tightened his grip on Jiang Tianai''s hand subconsciously.


    Whether they were human or demon cultivators, they all looked toward Fang Chen, their faces rife with unhappiness, mockery and coldness.


    The fox women behind the princess rebuked Fang Chen in unison.


    "Do you have the right to speak here?"


    The princess frowned as she sized up Fang Chen.


    "What''s this? Do you have some objections to how my empire handles its affairs?" Demon King Tianfeng looked at Fang Chen and smiled. "Looks like you don¡¯t know how things go in our empire. Because if you did know you wouldn¡¯t have said those foolish words.¡±


    "Foolish?" muttered Fang Chen, then pointed to Xia Ji. "I want to take him away. What do you think about that?"


    "Is he out of his mind?"


    "He wants to take away the scoundrel who abducted the princess? Dream on!"


    "The temper of Demon King Tianfeng isn¡¯t very great. This guy is about to die soon; I hope he doesn''t drag us down with him....."


    "Kid, no matter how wealthy you are, you don''t have the qualifications to boast in front of Demon King Tianfeng.¡± The crocodile demon cultivator chuckled strangely. ¡°Who do you think you are?"


    Fang Chen nced at him, then casually waved his sleeve, and Little Sword instantly pierced through that demon cultivator''s forehead. The crocodile slumped to the ground with a thud, the smile still on his lips and a hole now in his head.


    The demon cultivators who had been mocking Fang Chen were struck with disbelief. How dare that human kill a demon cultivator in front of Demon King Tianfeng?


    They all snapped out of their daze, and stared fiercely at Fang Chen, anger surging in their eyes.


    The princess was astonished. Who¡¯s this guy? Could he be Xia Ji¡¯s friend?


    Only Demon King Tianfeng and Shopkeeper Lin turned pensive when they saw what had happened.


    That sword wasn¡¯t ordinary! Its speed was so fast that neither of them had been able to see it as it moved!


    <i>This person not only has a good background but he¡¯s also strong. No wonder I couldn''t discern his cultivation level. He should also be at the mid-stage of the Foundation Building Realm,</i> pondered Shopkeeper Lin.


    Fang Chen stared at Demon King Tianfeng calmly. "I want to take him away. What do you think, is that feasible?"


    Demon King Tianfeng¡¯s eyes narrowed. Rationally speaking, he couldn''t understand why Fang Chen would do this. But he knew it¡¯d be for the better if he exercised some restraint now, since the princess was here. However...


    He really couldn''t stand how calm Fang Chen was... it was like he treated him like some kind of decoration.


    "You want to take him away?¡± Demon King Tianfeng lips curled. ¡°Over my dead body."


    "Then you¡¯ll die," replied Fang Chen calmly.


    Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture!


    The First Move of the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture!


    A terrifying sword intent swept forth, causing everyone in the vicinity to tremble with fear. All the cultivators felt a chill run down their spines as their skins pimpled with goosebumps.


    Demon King Tianfeng''s scalp exploded, and his eyes bulged. The sword intent swept through him like a storm before he had the chance to defend himself, consuming him.


    When the terrifying aura dissipated, everyone was shocked to find that Demon King Tianfeng had disappeared without a trace....

 Chapter 300 Seniors Intentions

    <h4>Chapter 300 Senior''s Intentions</h4>


    "Where is Demon King Tianfeng?!"


    "Why is he gone?!"


    "Could it be...?"


    The crowd''s eyes were filled with shock, and they looked at Fang Chen with fear, their sarcastic, mocking eyes were no more.


    That sword earlier... had been utterly terrifying! Terrifying to the point where they felt as if they were under a petrification spell, unable to move!


    Now that Demon King Tianfeng had disappeared, it was very likely that he had been... in by that sword strike!


    Everyone drew in cold air.


    Demon King Tianfeng had been at the mid-stage of the Foundation Building Realm, a talisman expert, and he had been hailed as a genius who had the potential to reach the Golden Core Realm!


    Someone like that... had actually been in with a single sword strike?


    Shopkeeper Lin''s expression shifted erratically. A thought had struck him; he had seen his fair share of the world, and he was able to piece together what Fang Chen might be....


    Qin Wei felt chills all over. He had never expected that Fang Chen would be so powerful¡ªso powerful as to kill someone in the mid-stage Foundation Building cultivator with a single move!


    The human cultivators present looked at each other, their eyes filled not only with shock but also curiosity. "Who exactly is this...?"


    "Uncle Tianfeng..." muttered the princess in a daze.


    The fox women behind her had gonepletely stiff with fear, as if they had fallen into an ice cer!


    The demon cultivators who had mocked and insulted Fang Chen earlier also closed their mouths one after another. They didn¡¯t even dare to look at Fang Chen, lest they looked at him wrong.


    But little did they know, behind the mask he wore, Fang Chen was aging at a noticeably rate. Time seemed to be catching up with him. If he looked to be forty a few moments ago, then he was a man in his fifties now.


    Fang Chen used these moments of silence as a chance to replenish his spiritual energy. After a while, once his spiritual energy had fully recovered, Little Sword struck again, instantly ying several demon cultivators who had been moring to eat Xia Ji.


    The demons were startled.


    The fox women reacted quickly, surrounding the princess protectively, their eyes wary and filled with fear as they looked at Fang Chen.


    Taking away the storage rings from the demon cultivators, Fang Chen transformed into a brilliant sword light and soared into the sky.


    Everyone was overwhelmed by the rich sword intent emanating from him.


    By the time they reacted, several figures had already been snatched from the scene.


    "That human cultivator who abducted the princess is gone!"


    "He was rescued...."


    Suddenly, the fox women noticed that someone very important had gone missing, and they turned frantic with anxiousness, looking all around.


    "The princess!"


    "Where is the princess?!"


    The demon cultivators'' hearts sank.


    The princess had been abducted again!


    This time, it wasn''t a cultivator at the fourth stage of Qi Refining Realm, but a human cultivator who could y Demon King Tianfeng with a single strike!


    The fox-women''s faces turned pale with fear. If anything went wrong, none of them would survive!


    Shopkeeper Lin looked at the fox woman with a grave expression. "Please go back and inform the ruler that this matter needs to be handled with caution. I suspect that that human cultivator is a sword cultivator with an incredible background!"


    <i>Sword cultivator?</i>


    Whether they were human or demon cultivators, everyone inhaled sharply in shock. Various terms shed through their minds: <i>lunatic, battle maniac, protective, petty, vengeful, capable of breaking through all obstacles with their swords...</i>


    Qin Wei stuttered, "L-Lin...Shopkeeper Lin, is he really a sword cultivator?"


    "Most likely," said Shopkeeper, his expressionplicated. "You were lucky to survive."


    Qin Wei felt himself go cold as his hairs pricked on end. He was genuinely terrified! He had just brushed shoulders with death!


    "Shopkeeper Lin, do you know him? You must make him return the princess, or else your Heavenly Treasure Pavilion will be implicated!" A fox woman threatened in desperation.


    Shopkeeper Lin''s expression darkened, and he responded coldly, "Our pavilion conducts business openly and we deal with all kinds of cultivators. I don¡¯t know who he is, and even if I knew, I wouldn''t tell you anything. Do you think that the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion, which originates from a fourth-tier empire, isposed of only a bunch of merchants?¡±


    The fox-woman was left tongue tied. They exchanged nces and eventually left with grim faces, presumably to seek help.


    ***


    In a deserted valley five hundred miles away from the market, a streak of sword light descended from the sky, transforming into several figures.


    Jiang Zhong and Jiang Tianai stumbled back a few steps, almost falling. The speed of the sword light was simply too fast.


    The princess stumbled and tottered before her bnce was broken and she fell to the ground. She seemed confused as to what was happening.


    "Brother, I can''t remove the Binding Talisman on you,¡± said Fang Chen to Xia Ji as he patted his shoulder. ¡°We''ll just have to wait for it to wear off.¡±


    Xia Ji, who waspletely frozen, couldn''t even blink. He could only express himself by moving his eyeballs up and down.


    Xia Ji was utterly overwhelmed with shock. He had seen what happened clearly. Demon King Tianfeng was turned into ash after he was engulfed by the sword light!


    He found it hard to imagine when Fang Chen had embarked on the path of cultivation and how he acquired the power to y a mid-stage Foundation Building Realm cultivator in such a short time. It was simply too surreal. Even his master, the Abbot of the Profound Void Temple, didn''t possess such strength!


    He decided to wait until the Binding Talisman wore off so he could ask Fang Chen all about it.


    The princess finally came to her senses, her gaze fixed on Fang Chen with uncertainty. "Who are you exactly, and why are you opposing our empire?"


    Why would such a powerful figure make a move on ount of a mere Qi Refining Realm cultivator?


    The more she thought about it, the more she felt like she was in a dream. Demon King Tianfeng, who possessed formidable strength, was actually in by someone with just one strike!


    "I¡¯m not the one looking for trouble here. You guys are the ones who chose to go against me," replied Fang Chen , turning to look at the princess before patting Xia Ji''s shoulder. "If you want to kill him, you¡¯ll have to kill me too."


    If Xia Ji had been able to speak, he would¡¯ve immediately shouted, <i>¡°</i>Yeah that''s right!<i>¡±</i>


    The princess was dumbfounded. She couldn''t imagine how Xia Ji would know such a powerful figure. Moreover, they seemed extremely close!


    In her impression, Xia Ji came from a very humble background in a small empire whose name she couldn''t even recall. If it weren''t for the Abbot of the Profound Void Temple passing by and seeing Xia Ji, recognizing his talent for cultivation, and bringing him back, Xia Ji would still be just an ordinary mortal! He would be as insignificant as an ant!


    Jiang Zhong suddenly realized. "So they know each other...."


    The princess¡¯s expression changed repeatedly. She tried to curb the fear in her heart and, feigning calmness, she said, "Since you are acquainted with him, then the misunderstanding between the Qinghu Empire and him should be resolved. Please, let me go."


    Fang Chen chuckled. "You don''t think I''m a fool, do you?"


    The princess didn''t say anything. After a moment, she hoarsely said, "What do you want to do?"

 Chapter 301: Blood Corpse Tracking

    <h4>Chapter 301: Blood Corpse Tracking</h4>


    Fang Chen smiled. "I naturally want to leave this ce safely. You were his hostage before, and now you''re mine."


    The princess wished she could give herself two ps. She really regretted how stubborn she was. Look at where it led her! Straight out of the tiger¡¯s den and into the wolf¡¯sir!


    "If you let me go, senior, then you might have a chance of leaving the empire safely....¡± She paused, then said, "My mother loves me very dearly. If she finds out I''ve fallen into your hands and that you¡¯ve killed Uncle Tianfeng, she''ll probably personally lead many demon kings to y you.


    "This is the Qing Hu Empire, after all. It''ll be very difficult for you to remain hidden no matter how much you try.


    "So, perhaps if you let me go I can talk it out with my mother so we can bury the hatchet!¡±


    The princess looked at Fang Chen. "What do you think about that?"


    "Not much, really," replied Fang Chen with a faint smile. "Anyway, if they track me down and I can¡¯t escape, then you''ll be the first to die."


    The princess''s expression changed abruptly.


    Xia Ji wanted tough. If she thought that she could escape from Fang Chen with some nonsense like that, she was dreaming!


    Xia Ji understood Fang Chen very well, that¡¯s why he became incredibly rxed. If Fang Chen wanted to leave this empire safely, he¡¯d most likely be able to.


    Xia Ji suddenly felt drowsy, and his eyes rolled a few times, and, with his eyes still wide open, he fell asleep, standing. He was really tired, both mentally and physically, from running around everywhere.


    "Tell me about that Demon King Tianfeng, does he know how to make talismans?" asked Fang Chen lightly.


    The princess was taken aback. <i>Why is he bringing up Demon King Tianfeng? Is he probing the empire¡¯s strength?</i>


    ¡°Uncle Tianfeng was indeed a master of talismans. He was proficient in several yellow rank, mid grade talismans. But strength wise, he was only ranked in the top five in the empire. So, if¡ª¡±


    "Where is his cave dwelling?"


    "???"


    The princess was struck with confusion. The conversation was going all over the ce!


    "Listen,¡± Fang Chenughed, ¡°I''m not as polite as Xia Ji, so if you don¡¯t start talking, I''ll cut off two of your tails."


    The princess felt a chill run down her spine. Her tails instinctively curled onto themselves. Face pale, she began, "Uncle Tianfeng¡¯s cave dwelling is in the Heavenly Wind Mountain Range, eight thousand miles away from here."


    "You lead the way. If you try anything funny, I''ll kill you,¡± said Fang Chen. He once again turned into a sword light and soared into the sky, the others with him.


    Even though the Sword Transformation Technique was fast, he was carrying four people with him, weighing him down, so his speed wasn¡¯t as high as usual. It was about the same as that of an ordinary 12th stage Qi Refining Realm cultivator.


    Several dayster.


    The news of the death of Demon King Tianfeng had spread. People heard that a mysterious human sword cultivator hade to the Qinghu Empire and killed Demon King Tianfeng with a single sword strike. As much as this news had angered many demon kings, it made them grow fearful of the sword cultivator.


    Upon receiving the decree from the ruler of the empire, they deployed their subordinates to track down the sword cultivator, but they didn¡¯t do anything rash; they were waiting¡ªwaiting for the ruler to personally lead the search.


    The Blood Corpse Sect was situated in a deste mountain range, where the only greenery was the moss in some dark and damp areas. Vegetation could hardly grow in thisnd, as it was permeated with heavy yin energy, a result of the practice of corpse refinement. Only spiritual herbs and grass were able to survive in this climate, ordinary nts couldn¡¯t.


    Suddenly, a figure appeared above the Blood Corpse Sect. The figure was dressed in a in white dress, with snow-white translucent skin. Her waterfall-like ck hair was tied up neatly. Her captivating eyes seemed to have shimmering autumn water flowing within them.


    "Who goes there? Flight is prohibited within ten miles of the Blood Corpse Sect!¡±


    The air suddenly turned dense with corpse qi as ten figures appeared one after the other. They stared at the woman expressionlessly. These ten figures were oddly stiff. They had slightly shriveled skin that was a mix of dark brown and gray-white. There were ck corpse spots that dotted their necks sporadically.


    The woman flipped her palm, revealing a jade que engraved with a nine-tailed fox.


    After a few breaths, ten new figures arrived, and they thundered, "Greetings, Madam!"


    The ten corpses that had arrived earliernded and stood behind the newly-arrived group.


    "I want to see your ancestor," said the woman calmly.


    All the corpses were surprised, but they dared not be negligent. The jade que represented someone of high status in the imperial family.


    The woman was escorted into the guest hall of the Blood Corpse Sect. After about a cup of tea''s time, an old man hurriedly arrived and immediately bowed respectfully upon seeing the woman.


    "Greetings, Daoist Tu."


    The woman nodded slightly. "Daoist Zhou, where is your ancestor?¡±


    Daoist Zhou was startled. Momentster, his face turned apologetic. "Daoist Tu, the ancestor is in seclusion, refining copper-armored corpses. It''s unlikely that he wille out of seclusion any time soon. If there''s anything you need, you can tell me."


    Tu Qingqiu furrowed her brow slightly briefly. After a moment, they rxed, and she said, "I need your help finding someone. I know your sect is particrly good at tracking people down."


    "You want help finding someone?" Daoist Zhou smiled. "I thought it was something serious. If it''s just about tracking someone down, then as long as the person is still in the empire, then there shouldn''t be a problem."


    ¡°It is serious. A sword cultivator has abducted the princess and killed Demon King Tianfeng," said Tu Qingqiu.


    Daoist Zhou was stunned into silence briefly.


    "A sword cultivator? He abducted the princess and killed Lord Tianfeng?"


    Tu Qingqiu nodded. "Yes."


    Daoist Zhou''s expression shifted erratically. A sword cultivator like that was not someone to be trifled with. When did the empire ever have such a formidable figure? Reason told him that it was best not to get involved in this matter. But as the first female official of the Qinghu Empire¡¯s imperial family, Tu Qingqiu obviously came here under the orders of the ruler. If he refused her, then... it¡¯d likely lead to many troubles.


    "You don''t need to worry. You just need to help us find him. You¡¯ll have nothing to do with anything thates after that,¡± said Tu Qingqiu.


    "Well... I''ll have to consult with the ancestor first and then give you an answer, Daoist Tu," said Daoist Zhou with a wry smile.


    Tu Qingqiu nodded slightly. "Please do."


    The old man turned and left. After about half an hour, he returned to the guest hall with a solemn expression. "The ancestor has agreed to help find this person, but if any conflicts arise with this sword cultivator, we won¡¯t interfere. We hope you can understand."


    "When do we leave?" asked Tu Qingqiu.


    "We can leave now."


    ***


    Several dayster.


    In the market.


    Tu Qingqiu, apanied by Daoist Zhou and over a dozen disciples of the Blood Corpse Sect, arrived at the entrance of the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion.


    "The princess was abducted here.¡± Tu Qingqiu handed a porcin bottle to the old man. ¡°This is her blood essence."


    The old man nodded. He gestured toward the disciples with him with his eyes, and they each summoned their Walking Corpses.


    The Walking Corpses stiffly walked up toward the blood essence in the bottle and started sniffing it.


    The nearby demon cultivators and human cultivators around were quick to piece everything together. The ruler had to have asked the The Blood Corpse Sect to make a move and help.


    "G<i>randpa, who exactly are we looking for?</i>" asked a rtively young disciple of the Blood Corpse Sect via voice transmission.


    "<i>A sword cultivator.</i>"


    <i>A sword cultivator?</i>


    The young disciple couldn¡¯t help but remember that sword cultivator he had encountered in the Frost Water Empire ...

 Chapter 302: Demon King Tianfeng’s Cave Dwelling

    <h4>Chapter 302: Demon King Tianfeng¡¯s Cave Dwelling</h4>


    Daoist Zhou saw that his grandson seemed to be daydreaming, so he berated him, "Don''t just stand there. We¡¯re doing something for the ruler here, don¡¯t embarrass us.¡±


    Zhou Huayu immediately focused on controlling the Walking Corpses under hismand.


    The Walking Corpses continued to sniff the blood for a while, causing Tu Qingqiu to grow impatient. Frowning slightly, she asked, "How much longer?"


    The Daoist Zhou smiled. "We¡¯re almost done. We just need to let them remember the scent, so they¡¯ll be able to track him down more easily."


    "Daoist Zhou, wouldn''t your Copper-Armored Corpses track him down faster?" asked Tu Qingqiu.


    The Daoist Zhou shook his head slightly. "Walking Corpses are more adept at tracking. They have a more sensitive perception of blood essence, like the innate gifts of wild beasts. Copper-Armored Corpses are different; we integrate many spiritual materials during their refinement. This weakens their innate gifts, but enhances theirbat power.


    Tu Qingqiu nced at the sniffing Walking Corpses. There was a sliver of disgust in her eyes. "So you¡¯re saying that Copper-Armored Corpses aren''t as pure as Walking Corpses?"


    "You could say that.¡± Daoist Zhou chuckled. ¡°When Walking Corpses reach a high level of cultivation, they can even be immortals. At that time, who would still consider them just Walking Corpses?"


    Tu Qingqiu didn¡¯t say anything to that.


    After about the time it took to drink a cup of tea, Daoist Zhou put away the porcin bottle. The Walking Corpses had turned restless suddenly, and they all stared southward.


    "The princess is to the south," said Daoist Zhou.


    Tu Qingqiu nodded. "Let''s go."


    She immediately dashed toward the south.


    Sighing, Daoist Zhou turned to his disciples. "Follow the Corpses, but don¡¯t embarrass me this time,¡± he said. ¡°Remember this, we¡¯re only responsible for tracking the sword cultivator down for them, so don¡¯t get in any conflicts with him.¡±


    "Yes!" replied the disciples in unison before following the Corpses.


    After they left, Shopkeeper Lin emerged from the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion. He clearly hadn¡¯t wanted to show himself with them lest Fang Chen bunched him up with themter.


    "Zhou Wuji from the Blood Corpse Sect is here too. It seems that the ruler isn''t nning to let things slide and is determined to find that sword cultivator," muttered Shopkeeper Lin.


    Qin Wei, who was beside him, whispered, "The Qinghu Empire might bring itself a whole lot of trouble because of this.¡±


    "Sure, sword cultivators are indeed not to be trifled with, but...¡± Shopkeeper Lin smiled, ¡°do you think the Qinghu Empire is easy to mess with either?"


    Qin Wei was taken aback. Wasn''t the Qinghu Empire just a sixth-tier empire? Its ruler was only at the grandpletion stage of the Foundation Building Realm, too.


    "Nothing is moreplex than rtions in this world. Sometimes, people you look down upon might have a Golden Core Realm cultivator backing them up," said Shopkeeper Lin calmly. "For an empire to be ruled by demons and to thrive for thousands of years, then there must be someone backing it up. The demon race isn¡¯t weak.¡±


    Qin Wei understood what Shopkeeper Lin meant. So a powerful demon race was supporting the Qinghu Empire! No wonder they had been acting so domineering!


    ***


    Guided by the Walking Corpses, the group changed directions several times.


    Tu Qingqiu was starting to lose patience. "Daoist Zhou, can you really find the princess?"


    "Please, don''t worry, Daoist Tu,¡± said Zhou Wuji. ¡°Searching for someone with Walking Corpses is a slow process. We can''t pinpoint someone¡¯s location directly, but we can slowly chip at it by following their trail.¡± He paused and continued, "This sword cultivator seems pretty cautious. He has changed directions several times along the way, probably trying to evade pursuers."


    "Let''s hope that you don''t disappoint the ruler." Tu Qingqiu coldly snorted and fell silent.


    Zhou Huayu transmitted his voice, "<i>Grandfather, do you remember the sword cultivator that I told you about? The one I saw in the Frost Water Empire?</i>"


    Zhou Wuji''s eyes flickered. "<i>Are you suggesting... that the sword cultivator you encountered is the one we¡¯re after right now? ¡°</i>


    "<i>Perhaps he is associated with him. That sword cultivator¡¯s strength should have only been at the Qi Refining Realm. He is unlikely to be able to y the Demon King Tianfeng with a single sword strike.¡±</i>


    "<i>Alright.</i> <i>Don¡¯t let the imperial family know about this. They might grow suspicious of our sect,¡± </i>replied Zhou Wuji through transmission.


    Zhou Huayu¡¯s eyes turned vignt. He nodded slightly and stopped indulging these random thoughts, focusing on the search.


    ***


    Heavenly Wind Mountain Range.


    The area was rich in demonic qi, with many demon cultivators inhabiting the mountains. However, when these demon cultivators saw Fang Chen''s sword light, they knew better than to provoke him and pretended not to see him.


    Diving deeper into the mountains, the sword lightnded in front of a cave.


    At the entrance of the cave dwelling stood two demonic cultivators who resembled frogs, each wielding steel spears. They were covered in bumps, with what seemed like venom flowing about them.


    When one of the frog demons noticed Fang Chen, he immediately approached, his steel spear pointed forward. "You are...?¡±


    Suddenly, however, the frog noticed the princess, and it hastily bowed respectfully. ¡°I pay my respects to you, Princess!¡±


    The other frog demon also hurried forward to bow.


    "Is Uncle Tianfeng here?" asked the princess offhandedly, her eyes signaling subtly. However, the two demons didn¡¯t even dare meet her eyes.


    "The demon king has gone out,¡± said one of them.


    "In that case, we''ll wait for him inside," said Fang Chen with a faint smile.


    "Princess, who are these human cultivators?"


    "They are Uncle Tianfeng¡¯s friends. They¡¯re here to visit him. Can you two open the door to the cave? We''ll wait inside," said the princess.


    Normally, the two demons would not allow outsiders inside so easily. However, the person before them was the princess, the most beloved daughter of the empire¡¯s ruler. The two little demons exchanged nces and immediately opened the door to the cave, leading the group inside.


    Jiang Tianai looked around with curiosity as they walked. He noticed that the cave was patrolled both inside and out by demon cultivators, it was like a fortress of sorts. The cultivation levels of the demons ranged from the fourth to the eighth stage of the Qi Refining Realm.


    One of the frog demons was left confused by the fact that Fang Chen was carrying someone with his spiritual energy, but he didn¡¯t dare ask about it.


    Soon, they were led to the guest hall.


    As the two frog demons prepared to leave, Fang Chen spoke up, "Where is Demon King Tianfeng¡¯s room? Take me there to have a look."


    A frog demon turned furious. "How can you be so rude! No one is allowed entry to Demon King Tianfeng¡¯s room. Anyone who shall trespass inside will die!"


    The princess intervened here. "Take us there to have a look. Uncle Tianfeng won''t me us.¡±


    The two frog demons were perplexed. "Princess, what are you...?"


    "What''s wrong?¡± The princess frowned. ¡°Don''t tell me you don''t believe me?"


    "We wouldn¡¯t dare doubt you, Princess, but this is a rule set by the demon king. We are only low-level Qi Refining Realm cultivators, we dare not disobey his orders," exined a frog demon.


    "You can beat it, then," said Fang Chen with a faint smile. With a sh of silver light, the heads of the two frog demons rolled to the ground.


    Seeing her kind ughtered, the princess felt extremely angry.

 Chapter 303: Talisman Manual

    <h4>Chapter 303: Talisman Manual</h4>


    Before long, all movement within the cave dwelling ceased; all the demon cultivators had been killed.


    The princess''splexion was a deadly shade of white. Although the demons who were killed weren¡¯t of the fox race, they could still be considered her kin to a certain extent. So, when she saw so many casualties among her kind, her eyes began to well up with hatred.


    "It really is here," said Fang Chen, looking at the pit in front of him. There was a relieved smile on his face. He then prompted Jiang Zhong to retrieve the jade box from the pit on his behalf.


    If it weren''t for his ability to leave his body with his divine soul, he wouldn''t have noticed this jade box.


    The jade box temporarily caught the princess''s attention. She was perplexed; how did the sword cultivator know where it was? What was even inside it?


    Jiang Zhong opened the jade box.


    "Sect Leader Fang, there is a talisman manual inside,¡± he said, handing it to Fang Chen with a solemn expression.


    The princess was struck dumb for a moment. <i>A talisman manual? Could it be...?</i>


    Fang Chen took out the manual from the box and began to flip through it with great concentration.


    This manual described three yellow rank mid-grade talismans. The first was the Binding Talisman, the second was the True Fire Talisman, and the third was an Illusion Talisman. These three talismans were highly valued in the Fox n.


    Demon King Tianfeng had been afraid that he might encounter any mishaps outside and end up losing the inheritance, so he left it here. It was his effort at curbing any contingencies.


    Fang Chen had predicted this, that was why he wanted to raid his room in the first ce.


    Closing the manual, Fang Chen sighed. "It looks like it¡¯s really much more difficult to craft yellow rank, mid-grade talismans than to craft low-grade ones."


    The simplest talisman of the three was the Illusion Talisman, which created illusions around where it was used, up to a certain range. It could evoke fear in the hearts of those who it¡¯s thrown at, causing them to perish under their own fears.


    The True Fire Talisman was slightly more difficult to craft than the Illusion Talisman. But the most challenging one to craft had to be the Binding Talisman. It wasplex and required one to have a decent one to have a certain amount of experience under their belt in order to craft it.


    "Stay in this room for the next few days.¡± said Fang to the princess, pointing at the room. ¡°Try not toe out unless absolutely necessary.¡±


    "Alright.¡± the princess nodded expressionlessly and crossed to enter the room.


    Jiang Zhong expressed some concern. ¡°Do we have to stay here for several days, Sect Leader Fang?¡±


    "It''ll be alright. They wouldn''t expect me toe here. It¡¯ll take them sometime if they want to find us,¡± said Fang Chen. ¡°I¡¯ll be busy refining some yellow rank, mid-grade talismans for the next few days.¡±


    Jiang Zhong nodded heavily, still looking somewhat worried. He wasn''t afraid for his own safety, he was most concerned about Jiang Tianai; he didn''t want her to be faced with any dangers.


    However, considering their previous predicament, where they had been constantly pursued by the Spirit Blood Sect, this was a turn for the better.


    Fang Chen took out all the spiritual materials he had acquired. Many types of spiritual materials and treasures wereid out. Little Sword began to feast on the extravagant meal with indulgence, very eager.


    "Little Chen, this is so delicious! I feel like I¡¯m getting stronger again,¡± gushed Little Sword as it wolfed down the spiritual materials.


    Fang Chen could sense that was bing more and more intelligent. It sounded like a teenager now.


    "Eat as much as you want.¡± Fang Chen chuckled. ¡°How far are we from reaching the third rank of the sword body?"


    "We¡¯re still far off,¡± Little Sword said. ¡°I¡¯ll need at least twenty or so meals like this."


    <i>Twenty? </i>Fang Chen sighed inwardly. <i>This one meal has already cost me over ten thousand low-grade spirit stones. That¡¯s way too extravagant even for a Golden Core Realm cultivator.</i>


    Little Sword was really quite the glutton.


    An hourter, Little Sword finally became full and satisfied, swirling around Fang Chen like a nimble silverfish. Its length had reached nearly three inches, resembling a dagger. Correspondingly, its attack power had also increased slightly.


    Fang Chen merged with Little Sword and began to have a feel for the sword body, and he suddenly felt that the over ten thousand low-grade spirit stones were not in vain. The sword body¡¯s strength had increased by at least one point. That was equivalent to a cultivator at the twelfth stage of the Qi Refining Realm!


    Fang Chen began crafting an Illusion Talisman in the following days, and he almost immediately learned how difficult it was. Despite the stability enhancement of the new talisman brush and the substantial amount of spiritual energy he had, his hand couldn''t stop trembling as he drew.


    He had tried many times and failed many times, yet he couldn¡¯t even achieve a ten percentpletion before he failed.


    The talisman materials he had were dwindling quickly¡ªhe had already lost one-tenth worth of two thousand low-grade spirit stones¡¯ materials. Yet, he still hadn''t seeded in drawing a single Illusion Talisman.


    Five days passed in the blink of an eye.


    During these five days, Fang Chen''s spiritual energy had been depleted dozens of times, yet his reserves became increasingly abundant. Even though he hadn¡¯t advanced to the Foundation Building Realm, the increase in his spiritual energy seemed endless. Comparatively, the spiritual energy of over a dozen cultivators at the twelfth stage of Qi Refiningbined couldn''t match his rich and vigorous spiritual energy.


    Fang Chen had made significant progress on the Illusion Talisman. He could even reach ny percentpletion now, so as long as he mastered the remaining ten percent, he would be able to sessfullyplete his very first Illusion Talisman.


    Finally after several days of being immobilized, Fang Chen heard Xia Ji speak, with much difficulty.


    "F-Fang... Da...."


    Fang Chen immediately put down his brush and crossed over to Xia Ji''s side. "Has the effect of the Binding Talisman worn off?¡±


    "I... I feel... much better..."


    Xia Ji still spoke with some difficulty, his fingers trembling slightly.


    "Don''t worry, it should probablypletely wear off in an hour or two," said Fang Chen with a smile. Although hisbat power was extremely strong, he still couldn''t dissolve the effect of the Binding Talisman. All he could do was wait for its effect to dissipate on its own.


    Two hourster, Xia Ji suddenly slumped to the ground, breathing a long sigh of relief.


    "That was suffocating....."


    "Haha, how do you feel?" asked Fang Chen.


    "Tired. Fortunately, I managed to sleep through it a few times." Xia Ji chuckled bitterly, then looked at Fang Chen with raised brows. "Fang Da, when did you start cultivating?"


    "About a year ago.¡±


    "A year ago?!" Xia Ji''s eyes widened in astonishment. "You''ve only been cultivating for a year until now!?"


    Fang Chen nodded slightly. "More or less."


    "You''re really a monster!¡± Xia Ji''s expression kept shifting erratically. ¡°In just one year, you were able to kill Demon King Tianfeng?! He''s at the mid-stage of the Foundation Building Realm! No, he''s not an ordinary mid-stage Foundation Building Realm cultivator either. He can battle three cultivators of the same level!"


    Fang Chen showed a smile. "It''splicated."


    Xia Ji sighed. "I understand. There are indeed some things in the cultivation world that are hard to talk about. No wonder Tao Yu contacted me earlier, saying that your martial cultivation had already recovered. It turns out that you were a cultivator."


    "Brother, how many people do you still have in the capital?" asked Fang Chen with a smile that wasn''t quite a smile.


    Xia Ji chuckled. "Can''t say, can''t say. Just know that they''re nothingpared to your Hidden Courtyard."


    "Let''s leave it at that," Fang Chen smiled and then shifted the topic with a serious expression. "How much do you know about the Spirit Blood Sect?"

 Chapter 304: Three Pillars

    <h4>Chapter 304: Three Pirs</h4>


    Xia Ji''s expression turned serious. "I don''t know a lot more than you do. What I know is that this sect likes to lurk in the shadows and scheme to use the blood of mortals in order to refine Blood Spirit Pills. The reason you lost at Three World Mountain wasn¡¯t as simple as we thought. It may have appeared on the surface as though it was just the Yincang Empire making a move while the Frost Water Empire turned a blind eye to it, leading to you not receiving reinforcements and being defeated by Marshall Xiao Lang. But in reality, I''ve been investigating the Qingsong Empire for the past five years; Marshall Xiang himself was confused by how easily he defeated you."


    Fang Chen''s expression shifted slightly. "What do you mean?"


    "Didn¡¯t three of your Dragon Generals die? But that¡¯s strange because Marshall Xiao Lang once told me that he didn''t arrange for his experts to target your Dragon Generals. Considering the strength of the Qing Song Empire at that time, they couldn''t afford to dispatch a full lineup of experts. He had deployed most of his forces elsewhere, in much more important areas. Your four Dragon Generals weren''t his main targets.


    "So, the killers who murdered three of your Dragon Generals didn''te from the Qingsong Empire. They were most likely from the Yincang Empire.


    "But the Yincang Empire wouldn''t go to such lengths just for Qingsong, so there had to have been more than meets the eye.


    "The Spirit Blood Sect has to be the masterminds behind this, they are the only ones who could do this. They have cultivators within the Yincang Empire.¡±


    Fang Chen fell silent, pondering. He had had suspicions that the Spirit Blood Sect were the ones behind this, but he had no concrete evidence to back them up.


    Xia Ji suddenly smiled. "Fang Da, do you know why Marshall Xiao Lang didn''t kill you back then?"


    "Why?" asked Fang Chen. "ording to him, staying alive would be more tortuous to me than death. And indeed, those five years didn¡¯t pass easily."


    Xia Ji''s smile faded. "Because he sensed something was amiss. He didn''t know what exactly was wrong, but he had a feeling that he had been ying into someone¡¯s hand, so he spared your life. Now, in hindsight, this decision was quite wise. He left himself a way out." Pausing for a moment, Xia Ji continued, "Both Yincang and Qingsong likely had cultivators from the Spirit Blood Sect. If we have to take action, we must deal with them one by one to prevent another incident like the battle at Three World Mountain."


    "The cultivators of the Spirit Blood Sect are elusive and it won''t be easy to find and deal with them one by one. We need something to lure them out of their hiding."


    A thoughtful expression appeared on Fang Chen¡¯s face. "Aside from all that, about your father..."


    "I told Tao Yu to warn you about him. I believe you sensed it too; my father is suspicious." Xia Ji nodded slightly. "I met my master when I was four years old. He taught me a lot, but I wasn¡¯t a cultivator then. I condensed my first immortal vein only when I was thirteen years old. And from that day, I began to sense strange things around the pce.


    "I couldn¡¯t quite put my finger on it, but I kept an open eye in the following years, and finally, one day, I saw something very bizarre; I personally witnessed my father refining a martial artist into a pill." Xia Ji''s voice grew solemn. "At that moment, I knew that my father was the demonic cultivator my master had mentioned."


    "Xia... Xuanji should have been at the Foundation Building Realm back then.¡± Fang Chen¡¯s brow knitted. ¡°Wouldn''t he have noticed that you¡¯ve be a cultivator?


    Xia Xuanji hadn¡¯t been able to sense Fang Chen¡¯s cultivation because of his powerful divine soul. However, Xia Ji didn''t possess such a mighty soul, nor did he have concealed treasures. How could he hide from Xia Xuanji?


    Xia Ji smiled bitterly. "Did he notice? Did he not? I''m not sure. All I know is that, after I became a cultivator, my father had this strange glint in his eyes whenever he saw me. But he never inquired about it. His attitude toward me remained the same, too."


    Xia Ji suddenly looked at Fang Chen. "What''s happening in Grand Xia now? Is my father... still alive?"


    Fang Chen nodded gently and recounted everything that had happened in Grand Xia over the past year, including the events in Spirit Void City.


    After a moment of silence, Xia Ji suddenly said, "My father was involved in the battle of Three World Mountain."


    "Yes, we were puppets, we were yed and manipted.¡± Fang Chen nodded. ¡°Now that I think about it, many people from the Qingsong Empire also died."


    "Fang Chen, have you ever thought about why my father chose to leave the capital without confronting you?¡± Xia Ji pondered. ¡°Could there be some reason we don¡¯t know about?"


    "I don''t know if there¡¯s a reason he did that, but I do know that my aunt is in his hands. If that sword light I saw outside Spirit Void City didn''t kill him, when I meet him again next time, I will do it myself."


    Xia Ji sighed lightly. "Fang Chen, I don''t me you. My father did you wrong. If that sword didn''t kill him, and I have the chance to meet him in the future, I will help you find out where the empress is."


    "Let''s set these matters aside for now.¡± Fang Chen smiled. ¡°Tell me about yourself. How have you been?"


    Xia Ji''s expression turned strange. "My master is the abbot of the Profound Void Temple in the Grand Qian Empire, Master Chanyuan. Master has two more disciples, Senior Brother Liu and Senior Sister Wu."


    "A while ago, I offended Daoist Jue Wudi, the current head of the Jue Family, at a debate. Not only did he order people to attack my senior brother and sister, but he also wanted to kill me."


    "Is the Jue Family powerful in the Grand Qian Empire?" asked Fang Chen.


    "Very powerful.¡± Xia Ji nodded. ¡°Along with the Fang Family and the imperial family, they are the three pirs of the Grand Qian Empire. Their family ancestors are all Nascent Soul Realm powerhouses."


    <i>The Fang Family?</i>


    Fang Chen''s thoughts stirred slightly. That was likely the main branch of the Fang Family. He hadn''t expected their status to be so high, ranking alongside the imperial family.


    "Why haven¡¯t you be a monk, since your master is a Buddhist?" asked Fang Chen curiously.


    "It''s a long story. Our Profound Void Temple once offended a powerful individual, and all the masters in the temple were ughtered, leaving only my master alive. At that time, my master was just a new monk at the first stage of the Qi Refining Realm. The big shot spared his life but prohibited the temple from epting any more Buddhist disciples. So, Senior Sister Wu, Senior Brother Liu, and I didn¡¯t convert to Buddhism.¡±


    Fang Chen nodded in understanding.


    "Fang Da, where are you heading now?¡± asked Xia Ji, curious. ¡°Why did you evene to the Qinghu Empire? And who are those two?"


    "I''m nning to go to the Grand Qian Empire and I met them along the way. They are going there to seek refuge with some of their rtives, and I also have some matters to attend to there.¡± Fang Chen smiled. ¡°We are nning to set off in a few days."


    Xia Ji frowned. "I will definitely fall into the hands of Jue Wudi If i go back to Grand Qian."


    "I''ll take care of your matter while we''re at it. If he tries to harm you, I''ll kill him." Fang Chen smiled.


    "No." Xia Ji shook his head. "Even if we want to kill him, we can''t do it in Grand Qian. The Golden Core Realm cultivator can easily trap you there."


    "My grandfather told me that our Fang Family ancestors were once a family of cultivators," said Fang Chen with a hinting smile.


    Xia Ji froze for a moment, then seemed to realize something, his expression turning incredulous. "Grand Qian Empire, Fang Family?"

 Chapter 305 Demon Kings

    <h4>Chapter 305 Demon Kings</h4>


    "If I am not wrong, my ancestor should be from the Grand Qian¡¯s Fang Family,¡± said Fang Chen, nodding.


    Xia Ji drew a sharp breath. "That likely is the case. How else would you have such talent if you didn¡¯te from an excellent bloodline?¡±


    "My cultivation has nothing to do with any Fang Family bloodline." Fang Chen smiled. "Hundreds of years have passed, even if I am really from the Fang Family, the bloodline would¡¯ve been diluted greatly over the years.¡±


    "Even if that was the case, it must¡¯ve had an effect to some extent,¡± pondered Xia Ji, then he said, ¡°I''ll apany you back to Grand Qian, I refuse to run away just like this. I must settle the score with Jue Wudi for my Senior Brother Liu, Senior Sister Wu, and for myself."


    Fang Chen nodded and went back to work on the Illusion Talisman.


    Xia Ji stood by and watched curiously as Fang Chen''s brush effortlessly sketched out intricate and ancient runes. He couldn''t help but marvel silently at Fang Chen''s mastery over the art of talisman, which far surpassed that of ordinary people.


    Meanwhile, a hundred miles away from the Heavenly Wind Mountain Range.


    Zhou Wuji furrowed his brow slightly and looked in the direction of the Heavenly Wind Mountain Range with contemtion.


    His disciples'' Walking Corpses were constantly roaring at the Heavenly Wind Mountain Range. If it weren''t for the Zhou Huayu and the rest ordering them to stay put, they would have already charged over.


    "Daoist Zhou, the cave-dwelling of Demon King Tianfeng is up ahead," whispered Tu Qingqiu.


    "Yeah.¡± Zhou Wuji nodded. ¡°If I¡¯m not wrong, then the sword cultivator is in there.¡±


    "Are you sure?"


    "Judging by the Walking Corpse¡¯s reactions, there is no mistake about it."


    "He killed Demon King Tianfeng and then went to his cave dwelling. He must be after Demon King Tianfeng¡¯s talisman inheritance."


    "Daoist Zhou, please do me a favor.¡± Tu Qingqiu sneered. ¡°If they show any unusual movements or leave the cave, remember to inform me. I will be going to contact the ruler and the Demon Kings."


    With that, Tu Qingqiu took out a transmission talisman and activated it.


    Zhou Wuji was slightly taken aback, a wry smile appearing on his face. "Daoist Tu, we¡¯ve helped you find him. What happens from here has nothing to do with us."


    "You won¡¯t need to do anything. Just keep an eye on him till I bring the Demon Kings and the ruler over. After that, you can take your disciples and leave,¡± said Tu Qingqiu lightly.


    Zhou Wuji didn¡¯t say anything, but he sighed inwardly, knowing he had no choice but to agree.


    Several days passed.


    With the final stroke, the talisman in Fang Chen''s hand suddenly burst into a dazzling light, and terrifying spiritual energy continuously poured into it.


    Xia Ji immediately beamed. "Is it done?"


    The room was enveloped with spiritual energy, but it didn¡¯t leak out outside.


    Fang Chen nodded softly. "This Illusion Talisman has beenpleted."


    Xia Ji sighed. "Fang Da, this is a yellow rank mid-grade talisman. Even Foundation Building Realm cultivators would find it impossible to draw it in such a short period of time unless they¡¯ve been consumed in researching the inheritance from a young age. You''ve always been a fast learner, even faster than me. And now that we¡¯ve both be cultivators, you¡¯re still the one shining the most. It''s hard to imagine how high your achievements will be in the future."


    Fang Chen smiled. "Practice makes perfect. If we''re talking about cultivation talent, then I can¡¯t evenpare to my grandfather."


    If it weren''t for his spiritual energy recovery rate, he wouldn''t have had so many opportunities to practice with the Purple Lightning Talisman, Divine Movement Talisman, Vajra Talisman, and Strength Talisman.


    The number of talismans he had crafted in the past year was probably equivalent to decades, or even centuries, of work for an ordinary talisman master.


    But his cultivation talent wasn¡¯t particrly that high, in reality. If it weren¡¯t for that ident at Three World Mountain, which resulted in his divine soul bing strong to the point where it could separate from his body, he would¡¯ve still been just a useless martial artist with a crippled qi sea.


    Xia Ji was surprised. "Your grandfather has be a cultivator too?"


    Fang Chen nodded with a smile. It was all thanks to the Purple Qi Manual from the Heavenly Southern Sect.


    Xia Ji sighed with some emotion. "It seems that Grand Xia will be able to slowly umte a good foundation."


    Fang Chen''s eyes flickered suddenly. ncing upward, he chuckled. "A demon cultivator at the Foundation Building Realm has arrived."


    "It should be a Demon King,¡± said Xia Ji. "How many of them are there?"


    "Let me take a look." Fang Chen¡¯s divine soul immediately left his body and phased through the cave dwelling.


    There were eight figures standing nearby in the air, emitting powerful demonic qi. Among them, there were six at the early-stage Foundation Building Realm, one at the mid-stage, and one at thete-stage Foundation Building Realm. The strongest among them wore arge red robe and had antlers on his head. Between his narrow eyes, there was a faint glimmer of divinity.


    He gazed at Demon King Tianfeng''s cave dwelling, then spoke softly after a while. "Where is Tu Qingqiu?"


    The other seven Demon Kings looked at each other.


    The mid-stage Foundation Building Realm demon spoke in a deep voice. "She should be close. After all, she''s the one who found this ce. King Lu, do you think Tianfeng is really dead?"


    "How could there be falsehoods in the ruler¡¯s words?" said King Lu calmly. "Tianfeng is, indeed, dead. But to die at the hands of a sword cultivator is not shameful.¡±


    "Then, what should we do?" asked the mid-stage Foundation Building Realm demon, his expression uncertain.


    "We aren¡¯t here for revenge. The ruler has ordered us to bring the princess back, and that¡¯s what we¡¯re here for.¡± King Lu chuckled lightly. "So don¡¯t do anything rash."


    The seven demon kings all breathed a sigh of relief. They had hot tempers and strong desires for revenge, but that was against ordinary cultivators, not when they were about to face an unidentified sword cultivator who had single-handedly killed Demon King Tianfeng. That swordsman was clearly very strong.


    After waiting for about fifteen breaths, Tu Qingqiu arrived with Zhou Wujing and the others.


    "He¡¯s inside Demon King Tianfeng''s cave dwelling, everyone,¡± said Tu Qingqiu. ¡°The ruler says that the safety of the young princess must be ensured."


    "Lady Tu, are you sure he¡¯s in there?" asked King Lu with a smile.


    ncing at Zhou Wujing, Tu Qingqiu calmly said, "You all should know that the Blood Corpse Sect''s ability to track people is the best in the empire."


    Zhou Wujing had just finished exchanging greetings with the Demon Kings when he heard Tu Qingqiu''s words.


    "I dare not im such a title," he said modestly.


    <i>Blood Corpse Sect?</i>


    A flicker passed through Fang Chen''s eyes as he locked his gaze on Zhou Wujing, scanning the others before finally settling on Zhou Huayu.


    <i>That guy...</i>


    No wonder the name sounded so familiar. He had encountered two disciples of the Blood Corpse Sect in the Frost Water Empire. And the person before him, Zhou Huayu, was one of them.


    <i>Tracking people down...?</i>


    Fang Chen''s eyes fell on the Walking Corpses. Seeing them constantly growling toward the direction where the young princess was, everything became crystal clear.


    "So Walking Corpses has the ability to do that...."


    "Since we¡¯ve found the person you¡¯re looking for, I''ll take my leave then?" said Zhou Wujing, bowing politely.


    King Lu chuckled lightly. "Daoist Zhou, you don¡¯t have to be in such a hurry to leave. Why don¡¯t you wait till we¡¯re done here before you leave."


    <i>Go to hell! </i>Zhou Wujing couldn''t help but curse inwardly as he looked at Tu Qingqiu.


    Tu Qingqiu nodded. "Indeed. It¡¯s better if you wait till it¡¯s all done."


    Zhou Wujing didn¡¯t let his anger show, and he smiled. "That''s fine, that''s fine."

 Chapter 306: Two Guests?

    <h4>Chapter 306: Two Guests?</h4>


    In order to prevent the swordsman from escaping, Tu Qingqiu and the other eight surrounded the cave dwelling. Even Zhou Wuji had been forcibly assigned a position.


    There were a total of ten Foundation Building Realm cultivators encircling the cave. This was a force to be reckoned with anywhere in the world!


    "Should we wait for the ruler?" asked the mid-stage Foundation Building Demon King hesitantly.


    "He¡¯s already here. Proceed as nned,¡± said Tu Qingqiu calmly.


    <i>He¡¯s here?</i>


    <i>T</i>he spirits of the Demon Kings were uplifted. They were much more confident with the ruler around. After all, he was at the grandpletion stage of Foundation Building Realm; with someone like that around, their chances of resisting the fearsome sword cultivator would be much higher.


    Facing the cave-dwelling, King Lu smiled, bowing with sped hands. "I¡¯d like to request a conversation with you, esteemed sir."


    King Lu''s majestic voice was booming, and it had caused the flocks of birds perched on the trees to be startled onto flight.


    The Demon Kings watched the cave-dwelling solemnly.


    After a brief moment, a figure soared into the air and stood in the void, calmly staring at the Demon Kings.


    That figure was shrouded in terrifying sword intent. The Demon Kings in the early-stage Foundation Building Realm felt their hairs prickle from the sense of impending danger that washed over them.


    "What terrifying sword intent!"


    The Demon Kings grew even more wary, their eyes flickering.


    "No wonder Demon King Tianfeng was in with a single sword strike....¡±


    The only ones who were unaffected by the sword intent were King Lu and Tu Qingqiu. The restless undead creatures also began to quieten down.


    Both Zhou Wuji and his son Zhou Huayu showed expressions full of surprise; even the Walking Corpses seemed scared.


    Fang Chen smiled under the mask. "Are you all the so-called ¡®Demon Kings¡¯ of this empire?"


    King Lu nodded slightly. "We are here under the orders of the ruler to take the little princess away."


    The princess, who was holed up inside the room in the cave, heard King Lu¡¯s voice, and she was delighted. She shoved the door open and went outside quickly. She couldn¡¯t contain her joy. ¡°Eight Demon Kings are here! Even Aunt Qingqiu is here too! There''s a Foundation Building cultivator from the Blood Corpse Sect here as well!"


    "Eight Demon Kings. It seems your empire¡¯s ruler really dotes on you." Xia Ji walked over slowly, standing side by side with the princess as they looked up at the sky.


    Behind them, Jiang Zhongforted Jiang Tianai in a low voice while keeping an eye on the sky.


    The fact that they were surrounded by ten Foundation Building cultivators made him feel uneasy.


    "Xia Ji, no matter how strong that friend of yours is, even if he¡¯s a sword cultivator, he¡¯s no match for thebined strength of the eight Demon Kings. King Lu is the number one Demon King of the empire.¡± The princess sneered. ¡°He¡¯s a league above Demon King Tianfeng.¡±


    Xia Ji nodded. "Indeed, I have heard of King Lu."


    Cold mockery shed in the eyes of the princess. "That friend of yours had been toocent with arrogance. How dare he stay here for so long? Now that the Demon Kings found him, they will surely take me away. Demon King Tianfeng''s debts will definitely also be settled."


    ncing at her, Xia Ji suddenly smiled. "You don¡¯t know my brother. If he dared to stay here, he must have confidence in himself."


    The princess was surprised. <i>Brother?</i>


    She suddenly felt very curious about the rtionship between Xia Ji and Fang Chen. How could a Qi Refining Realm cultivator from a backwater ce be considered a brother to a terrifying sword cultivator who single-handedly killed Demon King Tianfeng?


    "If I refuse to release her, what will you do?" asked Fang Chen.


    Refuse to release her?


    The expressions of the Demon Kings changed slightly, but King Lu remainedposed, smiling faintly. "The empire has no feud with you. What led to all of this was just a misunderstanding,¡± he said. "We don¡¯t want anything, we¡¯re just here to take the little princess away. Nothing else.¡±


    "She plotted against my brother. How do you think this should be settled?" Fang Chen smiled. "You better think about it very carefully. You can only bring her away if I deem I¡¯m satisfied."


    The Demon Kings frowned. They were the ones who should be asking for an exnation over Demon King Tianfeng¡¯s death, yet he was the one saying he wanted to settle scores over what the princess did?


    "You killed Demon King Tianfeng, isn¡¯t that enough?¡± King Lu smiled. ¡°Isn¡¯t that enough for you to bury the hatchet with us?"


    "Those are two separate things. Demon King Tianfeng died at my hand because of what¡¯s between me and him, not what¡¯s between your princess and my brother," said Fang Chen lightly. "Speaking of which, it¡¯s your princess¡¯s fault all to begin with. She likes to poke her nose where it doesn¡¯t belong and it got her in trouble."


    The princess''s face turned ugly.


    Tu Qingqiu suddenly spoke up. "What kind of exnation do you want? As long as you guarantee the safety of the little princess, we will consider it."


    King Lu and others turned their gaze to Tu Qingqiu.


    Tu Qingqiu''s words represented the will of the ruler!


    Fang Chen smiled lightly. "How much is your little princess''s life worth in spirit stones?"


    The princess was surprised. "He actually wants to exchange me for spirit stones?"


    Xia Ji couldn''t help butugh. "Now you know why he didn¡¯t leave? You still have some value he can squeeze out. This is one habit of his,¡± he said. ¡°Consider yourself lucky, if you didn¡¯t have any value, you¡¯d probably be dead by now.¡±


    The princess''s face turned ashen, feeling like she was being put up for sale. <i>I feel like a fish on the chopping block!</i>


    Disdain shed in Tu Qingqiu''s eyes as she nodded. "How many spirit stones do you want?"


    Fang Chen smiled. "Will five thousand low-grade spirit stones be an issue?"


    All the Demon Kings sucked in a cold breath.


    That was simply an outrageous demand!


    <i>Five thousand low-grade spirit stones?</i>


    They¡¯d only consume seven or eight hundred low-grade spirit stones in an entire year of cultivation, at most! And they had that luxury because they controlled many resources and held real power in the Qinghu Empire!


    Those wandering cultivators at the Foundation Building Realm couldn¡¯t even earn three hundred spirit stones in a year!


    Tu Qingqiu nodded slowly. "Okay, five thousand low-grade spirit stones it is. As long as you release the little princess, I can agree to this condition."


    King Lu couldn''t help but nce at her.


    "I''ll release her once I have the spirit stones," said Fang Chen.


    Xia Ji had thought that Tu Qingqiu might hesitate, or even try to pull a few tricks, but he unexpectedly saw her take a pile of spirit stones from her ring and send them to Fang Chen with her spiritual energy.


    "I''ve given you the spirit stones. Release the little princess," said Tu Qingqiu.


    "Alright." Fang Chen took the spirit stones and then waved his hand lightly. Immediately, the princess was wrapped in spiritual energy and sent in front of Tu Qingqiu.


    "We''re even now," said Fang Chen, and with that, he turned into a sword light with Xia Ji and the other two, disappearing into the sky.


    "Giving him five thousand low-grade spirit stones like this is too much of a loss..." muttered one of the Demon Kings.


    Zhou Wuji was relieved that the situation was resolved easily. He thankfully didn¡¯t form an enmity with the sword cultivator.


    "Those five thousand low-grade spirit stones were fake. Did you forget that my Qinghu n is best at illusions?" said Tu Qingqiu calmly.


    Shock appeared on everyone''s faces. After a brief moment of silence, the Demon Kings burst intoughter.


    "<i>Hahaha.</i> That sword cultivator must be so happy thinking he¡¯s struck it rich! Little does he know, it¡¯s all up in the clouds!"


    ¡°I really want to see his face when he finds out!"


    Tu Qingqiu turned her attention to the princess, concerned. "Are you alright, little princess?"

 Chapter 307: Illusion Talisman

    <h4>Chapter 307: Illusion Talisman</h4>


    The princess lowered her head. "No, it''s okay, thank you....¡±


    "She must have been scared, but it''s good that she''s okay," said one Demon King with a smile.


    King Lu couldn¡¯t help but feel that something was amiss, but he couldn¡¯t quite put his finger on it. His brow furrowed.


    At that moment, Zhou Wuji spoke up. "Gentlemen, our business here is concluded. We''ll take our leave, alright?"


    Tu Qingqiu nodded slightly. "Alright, Daoist Zhou."


    Zhou Wuji didn''t linger, immediately leading his disciples away.


    A Demon King frowned. "What about that sword cultivator? We can''t just let it go, can we? Tianfeng can''t have died in vain.¡±


    "Tianfeng was fated to meet this cmity,¡± chimed in a gentle voice.


    Everyone''s eyes brightened at that, and they swiveled around to see a woman standing ten meters away, seemingly having appeared out of thin air.


    Even Tu Qingqiu, who was considered a peerless beauty, fell very short inparison to this neer, she was overshadowed.


    The woman wore in white clothes and had eyes as bright as stars. She had such delicate, rosy skin that it almost seemed as though it could easily break with a touch.


    All Demon Kings turned revenant. They all bowed in unison. "Your Majesty!"


    There was admiration in King Lu¡¯s narrowed eyes, but he dared not stare at her. It was as though he felt he''d profane a Goddess with his mortal eyes.


    Tu Qingqiu smiled. "The little princess hasn¡¯t been met with any danger, Sister.¡±


    The woman in white was none other than the Qinghu Empire¡¯s ruler, the empress who ruled over thend of the Green Fox,manding all demons.


    The ruler of the Qinghu Empire smiled faintly. "Of course she hasn¡¯t. Why don¡¯t you take a proper look at her?¡±


    <i>Hmm?</i>


    Everyone was puzzled.


    But they didn¡¯t have much time to be confused, as they saw the princess smile faintly, nod toward the ruler, and then say, ¡°Your little princess will be staying with me for now. We can have a proper exchange after I leave your empire¡¯s borders. I hope you won¡¯t try and deceive me with another illusion when the timees.¡±


    The princess suddenly blurred and broke into wisps of smoke that dispersed into the air.


    Tu Qingqiu was stunned.


    King Lu and the others were also stunned.


    The sword cultivator had actually tricked Tu Qingqui with illusions!


    They couldn¡¯t help but feel that even the figure that had gone out to meet them might¡¯ve not even been real. Maybe he had been fake? Maybe he put them under some illusion? Was it before he came out to meet them, or was it even before that?


    Tu Qingqiu''s face grew increasingly ugly, and a sh of anger rose in her eyes. She was a member of the distinguished Qinghu n, yet she had been yed like a fiddle using the skill she took the most pride in!


    "Isn''t he a sword cultivator? Why does he know illusions?" asked the Demon King in the mid-stage Foundation Building Realm with astonishment.


    "Illusion Talisman," said King Lu in a deep voice.


    "Tianfeng''s Illusion Talisman? His inheritance was really inside his cave-dwelling?"


    "Even if it was really the Illusion Talisman... Tianfeng hasn''t been dead for long. The swordsman couldn¡¯t haveprehended the talisman¡¯s essence so quickly. I remember Tianfeng spent a whole year just to craft one Illusion Talisman, right?"


    Everyone was perplexed.


    "Give chase!" shouted King Lu coldly, about to pursue. However, he saw the ruler raise her hand, which caused him to pause in his tracks.


    King Lu was confused. "Your Majesty?"


    "There is no need for us to pursue him,¡± said the ruler calmly. ¡°The little girl will be fine. The words of a sword cultivator are trustworthy. Since he said he would meet us at the border, then he will.¡±


    Tu Qingqiu looked guilty. "Sister, it''s my fault. If I hadn''t been careless, I wouldn''t have been deceived by him...."


    It was clear that, when she was in front of the ruler, she wasn¡¯t as closed up and cold.


    The ruler smiled faintly. "It''s not your fault. I was also tricked. I wouldn''t have been able to see through it if it weren¡¯t for the fact that I noticed that the girl was acting weird.¡±


    Everyone gasped in disbelief, Tu Qingqiu no exception.


    She couldn¡¯t believe that even the ruler was tricked by the Illusion Talisman. In fact, it was much easier for her to ept that the ruler was lying in order tofort her.


    "Sister, I''ll immediately call back the people from the Blood Corpse Sect to track him again,¡± said Tu Qingqiu.


    "No need for that. If my guess is correct, they should be heading to the Grand Qian Empire. Hurry to the border and bring the little girl back. Whatever amount of spirit stones he wants, just give it to him. Don''t make enemies with him."


    Tu Qingqiu was taken aback. "Give him however many spirit stones he wants?"


    King Lu''s expression shifted. He quietly assessed the ruler. "Your Majesty, do you n to get on his good side?"


    "I just don''t want to make enemies with that sword cultivator. Go."


    "Yes." They exchanged nces and then all flew toward the direction of the Grand Qian Empire.


    The ruler didn¡¯t move from her spot for a while, her eyes reminiscing.


    Joy slowly blossomed on her face. "Big Brother Mu, I''ve encountered yet another sword cultivator. Perhaps he can help me find you...."


    ***


    Inside a dpidated temple.


    Fang Chen was restoring his spiritual energy. The princess stood to the side, expressionless, not moving at all.


    Curious about her situation, Jiang Tianai cautiously approached her and poked her waist.


    Jiang Zhong quickly pulled her back. "Young Lady!"


    "Uncle Zhong, what''s wrong with her?¡± asked Jiang Tianai curiously. ¡°Why isn¡¯t she moving?¡±


    Jiang Zhong subconsciously looked at Fang Chen, then shook his head slightly. "I don''t know either."


    "Sect Leader Fang, is she immobilized by a Binding Talisman?" asked Jiang Tianai, unable to hold back her curiosity.


    Fang Chen smiled. "It''s not a Binding Talisman, but an Illusion Talisman. Its effect on her hasn''t dissipated yet. She''ll be fine in a few days."


    The little princess suddenly started giggling foolishly, drool dripping down her mouth, wetting her clothes.


    Xia Ji couldn''t help but shiver. "This Illusion Talisman is so powerful. Look at how she¡¯sughing. She''s probably having the most sweet of dreams right now."


    Fang Chen chuckled. "Probably spending time with that Big Brother Jue of hers."


    "Jue Wudi?¡± Xia Jiughed heartily. ¡°That guy''s quite popr with thedies. Even this little princess here is head over heels for him."


    He suddenly looked toward Fang Chen and whispered, "What happened after she sent you the spirit stones was all an illusion, right?"


    "That''s right.¡± Fang Chen nodded with a smile. ¡°After she sent them to me, I immediately took you all and fled. Everything you''ve seen since then has been an illusion conjured by the Illusion Talisman."


    If his divine soul hadn''t been strong enough, he might have fallen for Tu Qingqiu¡¯s illusion technique.


    He had noticed that Tu Qingqiu had begun to employ her illusion technique even before she took out the spirit stones. He immediately used the Illusion Talisman to counter her after he had seen that.


    The Illusion Talisman was really more useful than the Binding Talisman or the True Fire Talisman.


    "No wonder my master said that among the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions of cultivation, the Illusion Tribtion is the most terrifying. I have now personally seen it for myself," muttered Xia Ji as he looked at the little princess, who was still smiling foolishly.


    If a cultivator were to be immersed in illusion for a hundred years, or even a thousand years, how tragic would that be?

 Chapter 308: Mental Distress

    <h4>Chapter 308: Mental Distress</h4>


    Half a monthter.


    The group had finally reached the borders of the empire.


    Jiang Zhong let out a breath of relief. They had thankfully reached the Grand Qian Empire without any issues. They hadn¡¯t seen any Blood Spirit Sect cultivators along their way too, so that shouldn¡¯t be an issue, either.


    "Where are you nning to go, Jiang Zhong?¡± Fang Chen smiled. ¡°Do you need me to escort you?"


    Jiang Zhong''s eyes flickered slightly, and he smiled with his fist sped. "You don¡¯t have to trouble yourself. If there''s nothing else, the youngdy and I will take our leave."


    Fang Chen nodded. "That''s fine. Take care."


    "Thank you, Sect Leader Fang,¡± mouthed Jiang Tianai.


    Fang Chen patted her head,ughing. "No need. You''ve given me the Mirror of the Universe, so we¡¯re even."


    Before long, Jiang Zhong had already disappeared from their sight with Jiang Tianai.


    Xia Ji turned to look at the princess, who had a serious expression on her face, seemingly lost in thought, then turned back to Fang Chen. ¡°What about us, Fang Chen? Should we head directly to the capital?¡±


    "You wait here for me. I''ll exchange her for some spirit stones," said Fang Chen, smiling. He took the princess with him and transformed into a sword.


    ***


    In one of the towns near the border, Fang Chen and the princess sat in a teahouse, each enjoying a cup of tea. This teahouse was within the territory of the Qinghu Empire and was only a few hundred miles away from the Grand Qian Empire


    As Fang Chen drank his tea, he paged through the Mirror of the Universe. He finally had some free time after his journey, and could finally take a moment to carefully study it.


    He couldn''t see the first twenty pages, but the text of the page after those was very clear, although the content he saw each time was randomized.


    "The Qinghu Family, born in human form, possesses superior intelligence. There are no males within the family, and only those who have reached the Foundation Building Realm earn the qualification to conceive offspring through essence qi. Innate Ability: Qinghu Illusionary Realm!"


    Sitting across from Fang Chen, the princess watched Fang Chen thumb through the book curiously. He was just so focused that it intrigued her.


    <i>What¡¯s he looking at?</i>


    However, her face soon darkened when she recalled her embarrassing moments during these past few days.


    The princess clenched her fists tightly. "Damn it, it''s so infuriating. They must have been mocking me for days."


    Fang Chen put away Mirror of the Universe and looked at the princess with some curiosity. "There aren''t any men in your family?"


    The princess was taken aback for a moment, and she suddenly turned perplexed as she stared at Fang Chen. How<i> does he know about that?!</i>


    This was a deeply hidden secret even within the empire! There were barely ten true-blood members of the Qinghu n in the entire empire!


    Fang Chen chuckled. "Not talking? If you don''t talk, I''ll take you away from here, and your mother will never find you again."


    The princess¡¯s eyes shed with fear. Gritting her teeth, she whispered, ¡°Yes, we¡¯ve never had any males in our family.¡±


    "Interesting." Fang Chen smiled and continued, "Your family has this innate ability, it¡¯s called the Qinghu Illusionary Realm, do you know about it?"


    The princess¡¯s shock intensified. <i>How does he even know about the Qinghu Illusionary Realm?!</i>


    The people from outside the family only knew that they were skilled in illusions, but they didn¡¯t know the details. There were many types of illusions, and the Qinghu Illusionary Realm was among the best!


    The princess slowly began, "I can¡¯t use it yet since my cultivation isn¡¯t high enough. Only when I reach the twelfth stage of the Qi Refining Realm can I awaken the ability. When that happens, I wouldn¡¯t necessarily even fear Foundation Building Realm experts.¡±


    Fang Chen nodded slightly.


    At that moment, a figure walked into the teahouse. The figure crossed toward their table, pulled a seat, and sat down next to the princess, casting a cold gaze toward Fang Chen.


    Although Tu Qingqiu nodded slightly toward the princess, her eyes remained mostly fixed on Fang Chen.


    ¡°How many spirit stones do you want?" she asked coldly.


    "Six thousand." Fang Chen smiled. "You tried to trick me with an illusion thest time, so you can say that this extra thousand ispensation for the mental distress I¡¯ve experienced.¡±


    <i>Mental distress? </i>Tu Qingqiu nearly swore aloud.


    Fang Chen had clearly tricked her with an illusion too!


    She wanted tosh out, but she reined it in. Not only because the ruler said not to make an enemy out of the swordsman, but because she herself didn¡¯t want to bring this matter up again! What if anyone from her family found out about this, how will she preserve herst shred of dignity?


    "Six thousand low-grade spirit stones! That¡¯s blind robbery!" blurted the princess aloud, unable to help herself.


    <i>Six thousand low-grade spirit stones?! </i>


    Many people in the teahouse, including both human and demon cultivators, turned to look over curiously.


    It was only now that the demons around noticed the two tails dangling behind the princess. After a moment of thought, they were shocked.


    <i>Royalty!</i>


    "What do you think I''m doing?" Fang Chen looked at the princess. "Am I negotiating with your aunt or with you?"


    The princess''s eyes spewed fire. She was about to speak up when Tu Qingqiu patted her shoulder and motioned for her to stay silent. "Don''t interrupt. I''m negotiating with him," said Tu Qingqiu softly. She then looked at Fang Chen and handed him a storage ring.


    "There are six thousand low-grade spirit stones inside, but there''s a condition. As long as you agree to it, they''re yours."


    Fang Chen smiled. "What condition? Let''s hear it."


    "No one can know of this. What will spread to the people is that we¡¯ve rescued the princess from your hands.¡±


    "I agree,¡± said Fang Chen, picking up the ring and standing up to leave. ¡°Farewell."


    Tu Qingqiu was surprised. She had expected some resistance from him. The ruler had warned her that sword cultivators had quite the temper, so they shouldn¡¯t try and force him to agree to the condition. She didn''t expect him to agree so readily.


    The princess sulked. "Aunt Qingqiu, are you really letting him go like this?"


    "What else can we do?" Tu Qingqiu shot back. "Do you have a way to keep him here?"


    The princess hung her head. "I don''t....¡±


    Tu Qingqiu sighed. "You''ve caused a lot of trouble for us. The ruler said not to meddle in the disputes between human cultivators in the future, or simr incidents will happen again."


    "I just wanted to help Big Brother Jue..." the princess began, but she found herself being restrained by spiritual energy, unable to speak further, and could only watch Tu Qingqiu bring her away helplessly.


    "Stay quiet. I''ll take you back to see the ruler," said Tu Qingqiu. She used spiritual energy to fly out the window, the princess with her.


    ***


    The trip back took Fang Chen only a few hours. When Xia Ji saw that the princess wasn¡¯t with Fang Chen, he immediately smiled. "Did you get the spirit stones?"


    "I got them." Fang Chen nodded slightly. He took out three thousand low-grade spirit stones and ced them into his own storage ring. He then gave the storage ring to Xia Ji, and the rest of the spirit stones inside.


    Xia Ji was confused, and he stared at Fang Chen¡¯s outstretched hand. "What are you doing, Fang Da?"


    Fang Chen smiled. "We got a total of six thousand low-grade spirit stones, so let''s split them evenly."


    Xia Ji shook his head slightly. "You want to split them? Evenly too? I didn¡¯t even contribute half the effort."


    "I know you''re not the kind of guy to fuss over the little things. You can rest assured. There are many ways to earn spirit stones, and I happen to know one of them. I won''tck such external possessions." Pausing for a moment, he continued, "With these three thousand low-grade spirit stones, you can speed up your cultivation. The stronger your cultivation, the more opportunities you''ll have to aplish what you want."


    Xia Ji''s expression became serious as he pondered for a while. Finally, he nodded slightly and epted the storage ring.


    "Fang Da, are we going back to the imperial capital now?"


    Fang Chen smiled. "Take me to the Profound Void Temple."


    Xia Ji''s lips slightly curled upwards. "Alright." It felt good not being on the run anymore.

 Chapter 309: Grand Qian Empire

    <h4>Chapter 309: Grand Qian Empire</h4>


    "Fang Da, what''s your cultivation level?" Xia Ji asked Fang Chen on the way, unable to help himself. The world was a blur around them as they sped through the sky at an extremely high speed. Xia Ji was sure that even his master wasn¡¯t this fast.


    Fang Chen smiled. "Twelfth stage of the Qi Refining Realm."


    "Twelfth stage of Qi Refining Realm...¡± murmured Xia Ji. ¡°I thought you had already reached the Foundation Building Realm."


    "Breaking through to the Foundation Building Realm requires Foundation Building Pills, which I currently don''t have," exined Fang Chen casually.


    His sword body affected his foundation. His immortal veins were at ¡®Gold of Supremacy,¡± which was the second best foundation in <i>Introduction to the Thousand Daos</i>, with the highest being ¡°Source of Authority.¡±


    When his sword body rose to the third rank, it was highly likely that his foundation would reach ¡°Source of Authority.¡± He wouldy himself a very solid foundation for his future cultivation with that.


    "Since you¡¯re staying in the Grand Qian Empire, have you heard about the trade conference before?" asked Fang Chen.


    Shopkeeper Lin had mentioned that there¡¯s a chance that a yellow rank, peak-grade treasure will be avable. Even if a yellow rank, peak grade proved to be too expensive for Fang Chen to buy, he could still purchase a yellow rank, high-grade treasure. Feeding Little Sword spiritual treasures directly was much better than having it eat spiritual materials. It also saved Fang Chen the headache of having to deal with the scrutiny thrown his way when he purchased spiritual materials in bulk.


    "The trade conference? I think my master mentioned it some time ago. It''s organized by the fourth-tier Azure Cloud Empire. They invited cultivators from numerous fifth-tier empires to participate, and there might even be cultivators from sixth-tier empires. The venue is the hunting ground of the Grand Qian Empire," Xia Ji recalled. "When I left the capital, I heard that the Fang Family, Jue Family, and the imperial family, and many other families were all busy preparing for this trade conference. The Golden Core Realm ancestors of the major sects in the Grand Qian Empire were also eager to participate, they¡¯re constantly collecting resources, after all," said Xia Ji. "Are you nning on participating, Fang Da?¡±


    "Yeah, I''m considering that.¡± Fang Chen nodded. ¡°Do you happen to know when it is exactly?"


    "My master should know. We can ask him,¡± said Xia Ji. ¡°As long as one has enough spirit stones, then a trade conference such as this could be life changing,¡± he sighed. "I heard that many rare elixirs, treasures, spiritual materials, and herbs that can¡¯t even be found in fifth-tier empires will be avable. There will also be highly renowned pill masters and artifact masters attending. If someone is lucky enough, they might even be able to be their disciple and rise to prominence in one go!"


    "You¡¯ll tag along with me when I go. We can buy you a few pills for your cultivation, which can shorten the time you spend meditating every day," suggested Fang Chen.


    Xia Ji nodded. "I would¡¯ve only been able to go and join in on the excitement from the sidelines before. But now I can really buy some of the good stuff with the three thousand you¡¯ve given me,¡± he said. ¡°Perhaps I can even advance to the eighth or ninth stage within a year."


    Normally, he¡¯d only have around ten spirit stones to spend on his cultivation every month. At such a rate, it would¡¯ve taken him at least twenty years to reach the eighth or ninth stage¡ªwhich was already much faster than the average cultivator, who¡¯d need at least forty years.


    Xia Ji was confident that with Fang Chen¡¯s support, he¡¯d be able to cut down the time from twenty years to just one or two years. Having resources was sometimes far more important than having talent.


    A thought suddenly crossed Xia Ji¡¯s mind. "Oh, right, there will be twenty Foundation Building Pills avable for the various factions topete for. Not only the Grand Qian Empire, but other fifth tier or even sixth-tier empires will bepeting for it, so as you can tell, there are many cultivators eyeing them,¡± he said. ¡°I''ll return the three thousand spirit stones to you. You can use them to buy Foundation Building Pills. The price of one can go as high as five thousand spirit stones. You might not be able to buy them in the future if you miss the chance to buy them now, even if you have spirit stones. Not to mention, five thousand is just the base price. There will be at least hundreds of factions vying for them, so there will definitely be some markup. You need to be fully prepared."


    "Foundation Building Pills...." pondered Fang Chen. If he could buy one during this event, it would save him the trouble of looking for itter. However, he wasn¡¯t in any rush to reach the Foundation Building Realm. To him, advancing his sword body was much more important for now.


    "It''s alright. Three thousand spirit stones won''t make a dent in my ns. I can buy whatever I need. Don''t worry about me," said Fang Chen with a smile.


    "Damn, you''re so rich.¡± Xia Ji gasped. ¡°How rich are you exactly? Three thousand spirit stones won¡¯t make a dent?"


    "Have you forgotten? I''m proficient in talisman crafting, and selling talismans brings in a considerable ie. Speaking of which, take a look at what kind of talisman this is," said Fang Chen, taking out twenty peak-grade Purple Lightning Talismans and handing them to Xia Ji.


    "These are...."


    Xia Ji touched the peak-grade Purple Lightning Talismans and faintly sensed an explosive aura emanating from them.


    That aura seems to be on the verge of erupting, possessing an offensive power far beyond the ordinary five elements.


    Xia Ji¡¯s brow scrunched up, and he looked at Fang Chen. "Could they be Purple Lightning Talismans?"


    "Yes, they are peak-grade Purple Lightning Talismans. Even a cultivator at the twelfth stage of the Qi Refining Realm would have to tread carefully around these. If all twenty are used at once, instantly killing a cultivator at the twelfth stage shouldn¡¯t be an issue" Fang Chen chuckled. "Is there anyone in the Grand Qian Empire who can craft these?"


    The Grand Qian Empire was a fifth-tier empire and should be different from those sixth-tier empires. Even in the Qinghu Empire, there were masters who could produce yellow rank mid-grade talismans. The Grand Qian Empire should also have cultivators studying talisman crafting.


    "Yes, but the production of peak-grade Purple Lightning Talismans is extremely difficult. They''re not easy toe by. Even if someone puts them up for sale, they will be snagged by the various factions quickly. They consider these talismans as strategic resources and asionally distribute them to their disciples." Xia Ji nodded solemnly. "A single peak-grade Purple Lightning Talisman is priced at at least thirty low-grade spirit stones."


    Fang Chen nodded slightly.


    Thirty low-grade spirit stones. This price was neither high nor low. He still had about a hundred peak-grade Purple Lightning Talismans in his storage ring, which could fetch around three to four thousand low-grade spirit stones. If he added them together, he could buy a yellow rank, mid-grade treasure with close to seventy-two Soul Imprints.


    As for yellow rank, high-grade treasures, their starting price should be over ten thousand low-grade spirit stones. He would have to see how many spirit stones he¡¯d be able to gather beforeing to a decision.


    "Fang Chen, did you make all these Purple Lightning Talismans?"


    Fang Chen nodded with a smile. "Yes, they''re yours now. Keep them for self-defense."


    Xia Ji couldn''t help but sigh again. "What fat pockets you have."


    Xia Ji could hardly believe it; he had transformed from a destitute cultivator who needed to flee the Grand Xia Empire into someone with deep pockets.


    ***


    Several dayster.


    Finally, the two of them reached the imperial capital after traveling day and night without rest.


    The first thing that caught their eyes was the vast and magnificent city wall, adorned with fluttering gs. These gs were extraordinary, emanating rich spiritual energy. It was clear that they were part of some formation.


    Outside the city wall stood countless buildings, bustling with people. asionally, they spotted demon cultivators swaggering around, as well as many cultivators sitting on the ground, setting up stalls.


    The majority of the people walking around were ordinary mortals, but almost every one of them was a martial artist, with cultivation levels ranging from the first stage of Qi Condensation to even the Heaven Profound Stage.

 Chapter 310: Eighteen Districts

    <h4>Chapter 310: Eighteen Districts</h4>


    "Fang Da, flying is illegal here. We''ll have to travel on foot from here," said Xia Ji.


    Fang Chen nodded. The sword light whizzed down and theynded right outside the outer city.


    "Is your Profound Void Temple located in the outer or inner city?" asked Fang Chen casually.


    Xia Ji smiled. "It''s in the outer city, on Profound Void Mountain. The outer city of the imperial capital consists of eighteen districts. Thirteen of them are mostly inhabited bymoners, predominantly martial artists. The remaining five districts house numerous cultivation sects and families, including Profound Void Temple."


    "What about the inner city?"


    "The inner city is led by the imperial family, with support from the Fang and Jue Family, who have arranged the Heaven and Earth Spirit Gathering Formation. The inner city is rich in spiritual energy, and without sufficient background and strength, one cannot stay there for long." Xia Ji continued, "In addition to the Fang and Jue Family, there are four other sects in the inner city, each with a Golden Core Realm ancestor."


    "The Grand Qian Empire has quite a few Golden Core Realm cultivators. I assume there¡¯s at least twenty of them?" said Fang Chen.


    Xia Ji replied, "Twenty? That¡¯s at the very least. From what I know, there are at least ten well-known Golden Core Realm ancestors in the capital alone.¡±


    The two were currently standing at presumably one of the five districts Xia Ji mentioned because cultivators were everywhere; however, cultivators above the twelfth stage of the Qi Refining Realm were a rare sight. There were shops along the road selling spiritual herbs, simr to the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion. There were also many cultivators who had set up stalls to sell spiritual materials and pills.


    Suddenly, a group of young men and women approached the two. One of them had apparently noticed and recognized Xia Ji, judging by how astonished he seemed.


    He was whispering something to the people with him, and soon after, a slender young man walked over, smiled, and bowed to Xia Ji.


    "Brother Xia, it''s been a while since we¡¯vest met. Were you not at the Profound Void Temple recently?"


    ncing at him, Xia Ji faintly smiled and said, "Brother Lin, I had some matters to attend to outside the empire. Did youe to look for me at Profound Void Temple recently?"


    "I went there a few days ago, but only stayed there for a little while,¡± he said, then his eyes drifted toward Fan Chen. ¡°Who¡¯s this friend with you?¡±


    "This is my newly acquainted friend, Daoist Fang," replied Xia Ji.


    Lin¡¯s expression changed. "Oh, so you''re Daoist Fang. Are you from the Fang Family in the inner city?"


    The expressions of those around him changed too, perplexed, with their brow furrowed. How could Xia Ji know someone from the Fang Family?


    Before Xia Ji could respond, Fang Chen smiled and said, "I''m just surnamed Fang, that''s all."


    "Oh, I see." Brother Lin''s face eased, and he nodded with a smile. He turned his attention back to Xia Ji again. "Xia Ji, I¡¯ve heard that Brother Jue has been looking for you. I heard you''ve been telling people that your senior brother and sister fell victim to his hands?" Brother Lin''s face darkened. "You can eat whatever you want, but you can¡¯t say whateveres to your mind. Big Brother Jue is a sincere person and cares deeply for us juniors. Have you forgotten that when you first came to Grand Qian, he was the one to stand up for you when you were bullied? Will you bite the hand that fed you by spreading rumors to malign him?¡±


    "Yeah, that was very ungrateful of you!"


    "How about this, let''s go see Brother Jue right now so you can apologize to him. With his temperament, he will probably just brush it off with a smile and won''t hold it against you.¡±


    The group of young men and women all chimed in.


    "Lin Yu, this has nothing to do with you. I''ll take responsibility for what I said. If you don''t know the truth, then don''t meddle in this," said Xia Ji with a faint smile, then led Fang Chen away from the crowd.


    Lin Yu furrowed his brow and watched the two walk away coldly.


    "Lin Yu, shall we go to the inner city and inform Brother Jue? Xia Ji spreading rumors about him like this isn''t good. If he bes unhappy about it, we might be implicated."


    The others nodded in agreement.


    They were all from various cultivation families in the outer city, and the Profound Void Temple was also located there. In the eyes of many people in the inner city, they were seen as a collective entity. If Xia Ji''s actions caused trouble, it wouldn''t be good for any of them. After all, every cultivator in the outer city was striving to enter the inner city and enjoy the benefits of the Heaven and Earth Spirit Gathering Formation.


    "We don''t need to bother him about everything. Sometimes, we should deal with some matters ourselves and let him see the results," said Lin Yu lightly.


    The group exchanged nces and began to eagerly anticipate what was toe.


    ***


    "Who was that?" asked Fang Chen casually.


    "He is a disciple from the Lin Family in the Eighteenth District, Lin Yu,¡± said Xia Ji. ¡°Fourteen, fifteen, sixteen, seventeen, eighteen: these five districts have many cultivation families, about seventy to eighty families. The Lin family dominates the Eighteenth District, the other cultivation families have to consider their opinions because one of their elders is married to someone from the Jue family.¡±


    "They seemed eager to speak up for Jue Wudi.¡± Fang Chen chuckled. ¡°They mighte looking for troubleter.¡±


    Xia Ji smirked, ncing at Fang Chen. "Do you have something in mind? Do we kill them? Or do we let them keep their heads?"


    Fang Chen nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll let them live."


    Alright, this is for the better. This is the imperial capital, after all. Those from the inner city may not care about the mortals, but they won¡¯t turn a blind eye to the wanton killing of cultivators,¡± said Xia Ji sarcastically.


    Fang Chen nodded with a smile. "Fair enough."


    Profound Void Mountain is located at the end of the Eighteenth District, and from there, one can oversee the entire district. However, what puzzled Fang Chen was the state in which the mountain was in: there were many dpidated buildings along the path up the mountain, and it was littered with overgrown weeds, seemingly abandoned and uncared for.


    "Why is it like this?" asked Fang Chen.


    Xia Ji''s gaze swept over the ruins and broken walls and he sighed softly. "Back then, the Profound Void Temple had eighteen grand halls, and experts were amon sight. There were not only three Golden Core masters, but also numerous Foundation Building and Qi Refining Realm cultivators. Additionally, there were three thousand temple guardians, all at the peak of the fourth level of Heavenly Profound Stage.


    "You should know that once a martial artist enters the Fatal Qi realm in the Heavenly Profound Stage, they would be able to harm cultivators. The subsequent realms after that, which are the Profound Qi, Royal Qi and Imperial Qi, are, to some extent, equivalent to spiritual energy. From that point on, cultivators can only have the upper hand when they use techniques and mysterious methods.


    "Imperial Qi martial artists are also known as Martial Emperors, which imply that they¡¯re emperors amongst martial artists. If a cultivator at the twelfth stage of the Qi Refining and a Martial Emperor sh, the cultivator might just die.


    "Just those three thousand temple guardians in the imperial capital were enough to make people wary. No one would underestimate the Profound Void Temple back then. That was the peak of Profound Void Temple."


    Fang Chen nodded thoughtfully. He knew more about martial artists than Xia Ji did. If martial artists continued advancing into the higher stages, they might not be any weaker than cultivators. However, it was probably not easy for them to advance into higher stages, especially for those in the Heavenly Profound Stage, which would require a lot of effort and resources.


    The fact that the Profound Void Temple could have three thousand temple guardians at the peak of the Heavenly Profound Stage at that time spoke volumes about its status back then!


    "So what happened? What enemy did your temple encounter?" asked Fang Chen curiously.

 Chapter 311: Female Demon Lord

    <h4>Chapter 311: Female Demon Lord</h4>


    "What happened...." murmured Xia Ji solemnly. "ording to Master Chanyuan, the Profound Void Temple identally offended a female demon lord. With a sword in hand, she killed three Golden Core Realm ancestors, sixteen Foundation Building experts, as well as hundreds of Qi Refining Realm cultivators, three thousand temple guardians, and countless novice monks. In the end, only Master Chanyuan, who had just turned six years old at the time, survived.


    "The female demon lord told Master Chanyuan that from then on, the temple was not allowed to continue epting disciples or promote Buddhism.


    "The Profound Void Temple began to decline after that incident. Master Chanyuan had been managing the temple alone since. Later, he took Senior Sister Wu as his disciple, then Big Brother Liu, and me as his closed-door disciple."


    Fang Chen''s gaze had turned grave. "A female demon lord?"


    For a single person to annihte the flourishing Profound Void Temple with only a sword in hand meant that she was really strong. She had to be either a Nascent Soul Realm or a peak Golden Core Realm expert.


    "Didn¡¯t the Grand Qian Empire do anything?" asked Fang Chen.


    Xia Ji shook his head slightly. "I asked Master Chanyuan before, and he said the Grand Qian Empire remained silent from start to finish, with no one stepping forward to stop the female demon lord. No one even came to watch, much less help."


    "The background of the female demon lord you mentioned is probably formidable," remarked Fang Chen, his tonementing.


    Xia Ji smiled wryly. "That was hundreds of years ago. No one knows if she is still alive or not,¡± he said. "If she is alive, I hope to meet her. Master Chanyuan has borne a mental barrier over the years because of her. To get over it, he must see her again."


    It was then that a faint voice suddenly sounded, "Why are you talking about the temple¡¯s private matters with an outsider, Junior Brother?¡±


    Xia Ji''s eyes lit up when he heard that voice.


    Not too far away, at the entrance of a small temple, stood a woman who wore a white dress. She was quietly watching Xia Ji. Even though her appearance was ordinary, she exuded a unique sense of transcendence. However, herplexion was pale, and it was evident that she was suffering from internal injuries.


    Xia Ji hurriedly dashed forward. "Senior Sister Wu, you haven¡¯t fully healed yet. Why are you out of bed?"


    Instead of answering, the woman in the white dress frowned at Xia Ji. "I told you to leave the empire. Why did youe back?"


    "Senior Sister Wu, it''s a long story. Let me introduce you first.¡± Xia Ji pulled Fang Chen over eagerly. ¡°This is Fang Da, Fang Chen, the Grand Xia Divine General that I often mention. He''s my childhood friend, confidant, and sworn brother!"


    The woman in the white dress was taken aback, then scrutinized Fang Chen. After a moment, she nodded slowly. "Come in. I''ll make us tea."


    "Senior Sister, let me do it." Xia Ji hurriedly stepped into the temple. Not even turning back, he shouted to Fang Chen, "Fang Da, I''ll brew you some of the good tea that Senior Brother Liu secretly stashes."


    the woman in the white dress couldn''t help but remark, "If Senior Brother Liues back, he''ll definitely scold you."


    But Xia Ji had already disappeared deep into the temple, leaving her to sigh lightly.


    "What should I call you, Senior Sister?" asked Fang Chen casually.


    Judging by her aura, she should be at the eleventh stage of the Qi Refining Realm. She evidently had excellent talent, considering how young she was.


    "Wu Ruochou,¡± said the woman. "How did you meet Xia Ji? ording to Xia Ji, you should only be....¡± she paused momentarily, noticing the silver mask on Fang Chen¡¯s face. Her brow furrowed, she continued, ¡°Just a martial artist?¡±


    Because Fang Chen''s divine soul was much stronger than hers, she couldn¡¯t see through his cultivation. She didn¡¯t even sense any spiritual fluctuationsing from Fang Chen.


    "I¡¯ve had a fortuitous encounter and stepped into the path of immortality," replied Fang Chen with a smile.


    Wu Ruochou nodded slightly. "There''s no need to rush it. Sooner orter, you''ll condense your first immortal vein. That''s when you''ll truly have embarked on this path."


    "Senior Sister Wu, Xia Ji said he offended Jue Wudi. What''s the story behind this?"


    He had subtly probed Xia Ji for details about this, but Xia Ji had skillfully changed the subject every time.


    Wu Ruochou sighed softly. "It''s my fault. I offended Fang Lingxing during a debate organized by Jue Wudi. Both Jue Wudi and Fang Lingxing targeted me, making it impossible for me to step down. Junior Brother Xia couldn''t stand it and spoke harshly against Jue Wudi."


    "It probably wasn''t just a few harsh words, right?" said Fang Chen with a wry smile.


    He knew Xia Ji too well. That guy had a sharp eye for people and liked to gather intelligence. Wherever he went, he could develop awork of informants with his own means. Perhaps it was because of these informants that he knew some things about Jue Wudi that others didn''t. However, Fang Chen also understood why Xia Ji was reluctant to talk about it.


    Based on Xia Ji¡¯s temperament, he wouldn¡¯t put himself in such a dangerous situation for no good reason. There could be only one reason for his actions. Wu Ruochu had to have upied an extremely important position in his heart, so important that he abandoned his usual way of doing things and confronted Jue Wudi head-on, which led to his embarrassing escape.


    Wu Ruochou nodded. "That¡¯s right. He used him of hypocrisy. He said that, on the surface, Jue Wudi often helps juniors, whether they''re from the outer or inner city. As long as they seek his help, he''ll do his best to assist them. But behind the scenes, he engages in immoral activities and even turns some female cultivators he once helped into his cultivation furnaces, cultivating despicable techniques. For any cultivator, such usations would mean turning them into an enemy of the people. How could Jue Wudi endure such humiliation? However... Junior Brother''s words were too extreme. Even though Jue Wudi is close to Fang Lingxing, he shouldn¡¯t be that kind of person. The recent upheavals in the Profound Void Temple should have nothing to do with him. Perhaps it''s some cultivators whom Jue Wudi helped in the past seeking revenge on his behalf."


    Fang Chen smiled suddenly. "Senior Sister Wu, you may have misunderstood Xia Ji. If he wasn¡¯t sure about these things, he wouldn''t have ndered him in this way. If he dared to say something, then it must be true. In fact, he might¡¯ve even sugar-coated it when he said it.¡±


    Wu Ruochou was taken aback. Looking at Fang Chen, she shook her head slightly. "You''ve just stepped onto this path, what do you know about Jue Wudi?"


    "I don''t need to know him, all it is is I understand Xia Ji all too well," replied Fang Chen.


    Wu Rouchu seemed a little surprised. "You trust him that much?"


    Fang Chen nodded. "Senior Sister Wu, you should trust his words; we need to be cautious about Jue Wudi."


    Wu Ruochou pondered for a moment. "Even though I don''t agree with what he said, he did spend five years waiting back at that remote ce. That can¡¯t have been for nothing." Pausing for a moment, she looked at Fang Chen. "Do you know that if he hadn''t wasted those five years, with his talent and master''s guidance day and night, he would¡¯ve reached the seventh stage of the Qi Refining Realm at the very least by now?"


    Fang Chen nodded. "I do owe him five years."


    By now, the two had already reached the door of the tea room.


    Suddenly, Xia Ji poked his head out the door. "What¡¯s with all the nonsense you¡¯re saying? I stayed in Qingsong for five years out of my own ord. It had nothing to do with you. Stop babbling ande in for tea."


    Then, he looked at Wu Ruochou. "Senior Sister Wu, let''s sit down and talk! I have a way to find out where Senior Brother Liu is."


    Wu Ruochou''s eyes lit up, and she immediately walked into the tea room. She knew that this junior brother of hers was pretty smart.

 Chapter 312: Fugitive

    <h4>Chapter 312: Fugitive</h4>


    "Junior Brother, how do you n to find Senior Brother Liu?" asked Wu Ruochou as soon as she sat down.


    Xia Ji poured tea for the two of them, and the fragrance filled the room.


    The tea seemed quite good indeed.


    Hardly had Fang Chen picked up his cup when amotion arose outside.


    "Xia Ji, get out here!"


    "The Grand Qian Guards are here for you!"


    "There''s no use hiding."


    Wu Ruochou''s expression changed. "Grand Qian Guards?!"


    Xia Ji''s expression had turned solemn. "Fang Da, the Grand Qian Guards are the first army of the Grand Qian Empire. The first army has a lot of strong cultivators. They are directly under the jurisdiction of the Grand Qian Emperor and hold great power."


    In front of the once peaceful temple were dozens of figures. Among them were Lin Yu and others, as well as some soldiers dressed in ck armor, whose faces were stern.


    These soldiers had formidable cultivations. Those with the lowest cultivations were at the sixth stage of the Qi Refining Realm, and those with the highest had reached the tenth stage.


    Seeing that the temple was so quiet, a hint of doubt appeared on the face of one of the ck-armored soldiers, who resembled Lin Yu. "Lin Yu, has Xia Ji really returned?"


    As far as he knew, Xia Ji had long since fled from the Grand Qian Empire. Why would hee back now?


    Offending Jue Wudi was noughing matter. He had a widework of rtionships in Grand Qian, and it could be said that the empire was his turf. Even without him speaking, countless people would be willing to do things for him.


    "It''s absolutely true. We saw him with our own two eyes. He must be hiding somewhere," affirmed Lin Yu.


    Suddenly, they saw three figures walk out the temple, and one of them was Xia Ji.


    The ck-armored soldier who resembled Lin Yu gestured to his subordinates upon seeing this, and they surrounded the three of them.


    "This is the Profound Void Temple. Even if you are the Grand Qian Guards, you cannot intrude here without a legitimate reason," said Wu Ruochou coldly, looking at the leader of the ck-armored soldiers. "Lin Quan, are you trying to abuse your power?"


    Lin Quan smiled indifferently. "Abuse my power? It was reported that the Profound Void Temple is harboring fugitives, so I brought my people over to take a look."


    "Fugitives?¡± repeated Wu Ruochou. ¡°As you can see, there are only three of us here. Which of us looks like a fugitive to you?"


    "An evil cultivator escaped from prison a while ago,¡± said ]Lin Quan, taking out a portrait from his person. He beckoned for everyone to step closer and have a look at it. ¡°Take a look at this portrait, doesn¡¯t he resemble this person?" He pointed at Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen was slightly startled, while Xia Ji was stunned. Were they nning to target Fang Chen first and use that as an excuse to deal with Xia Ji, and then go to Jue Wudi to im credit?


    Lin Yu and the others took a step closer to the leader and peered at the portrait. After seeing it, they nodded.


    "It''s simr, too simr."


    They kept shifting between the portrait and Fang Chen, their eyes filling with vignce slowly, as if they really believed that Fang Chen was an evil cultivator.


    Holding up the portrait, Lin Quan¡¯s lips curled up. "Wu Ruochou, Xia Ji, do you two recognize this person from the portrait?"


    The person in the portrait was clearly wearing a silver mask. There was no doubt about it. It was definitely Fang Chen.


    Wu Ruochou brow furrowed. "You randomly drew a picture and imed he''s an evil cultivator? Perhaps you don''t know this, but this person here has not even condensed his first immortal vein. You have to at least make it believable if you want to frame him. If I take this to court, all of you who came here today will be held ountable."


    Hasn¡¯t even condensed a single immortal vein?


    The crowd was slightly stunned, and Lin Yu and the others looked somewhat strange.


    Lin Quan paused for a moment, then calmly said, "I won''t believe words from just one side. All I know is that he looks like the man in the portrait, so I will take him back for questioning. If you obstruct the investigation, you will be in vition of thews of Grand Qian, and we will apprehend you all!"


    Lin Quan waved his hand, and the fierce ck-armored soldiers, who were beside him, marched forward to capture Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen smiled. "You say I''m an evil cultivator who just escaped from prison. Then tell me, what have I done? What is my name, and what are my abilities?"


    "No need for idle talk,¡± replied Lin Quan coldly and mercilessly. ¡°We''ll discuss it at the government office."


    Suddenly, a Buddhist chant rang through the air. Everyone saw a blur appeared in front of them, and in the next second, a venerable monk was already standing in front of Lin Quan. He had a benevolent face and a hint of a gentle smile.


    "Master Chanyuan."


    Lin Quan and the others quickly paid their respects, fear shing in their eyes. Lin Yu and the others also joined their hands together and bowed to him.


    In theory, a Foundation Building Realm cultivator in Grand Qian would be considered average, but the Foundation Building Realm cultivator before them was extraordinary. He had lived for countless years, befriending many important figures within the capital, and even had contact with several old Golden Core Realm ancestors, often discussing scriptures and debating philosophy.


    Lin Quan and his men hade here to the Profound Void Temple fully prepared to apprehend someone, but they knew better than to apprehend Xia Ji directly, so they decided to target the cultivator he brought back with him.


    Both Wu Ruochou and Xia Ji quickly paid their respects. "Master."


    Fang Chen looked at the old monk curiously. This was the old man who happened to ept Xia Ji as his disciple when he passed through Grand Xia?


    "My temple has no evil cultivators, everyone. It seems you havee to the wrong ce," said Master Chanyuan with an amicable smile.


    Lin Quan''s expression subtly changed as he spoke slowly. "Master Chanyuan, we are only carrying out official duties and we mean no disrespect to you. Please take a look at this portrait. It¡¯s definitely him."


    He ced the focus on the portrait. With his connections in the Grand Qian Guards, it was easy for him to forge a portrait, and he could even directly fabricate a false case file. This way, if anyone investigated, he would have evidence to back up his ims.


    Master Chanyuan''s smile became a bit wider. "Benefactor, are you sure the person in this portrait is an evil cultivator?"


    "How could it be fake?" Lin Quan frowned. "I have evidence. If you doubt it, you can apany us to the government office."


    Master Chanyuan remained nomittal, slowly turning to look at Fang Chen, with a hint of inexplicable sadness in his eyes.


    "Benefactor Fang, you have finally returned to the Grand Qian Empire."


    Wu Ruochou and Xia Ji were both puzzled.


    ¡°What do you mean by that, Master?"


    Fang Chen was surprised. Did Master Chanyuan know that he was a member of the Fang n?


    Lin Quan looked at Lin Yu instinctively. Didn¡¯t his cousin say that this person¡¯s background was unclear? Why did it sound like he was a cultivator from the Grand Qian Empire?


    "Hundreds of years ago, the Fang Family produced a genius, but unfortunately, due to various reasons, he could only travel far from home. Benefactor Fang is the descendant of this genius,¡± said Master Chanyuan, then asked, ¡°Are you here to seek the recognition of your n, Benefactor Fang?¡±


    Lin Quan took a sharp breath, and the Grand Qian Guards apanying him exchanged looks, already showing signs of retreat.


    A member of the Fang Family? Even if they were distant rtives, they wouldn''t dare to act rashly!


    Lin Yu''s face turned pale as he stared at Xia Ji, but seeing Xia Ji''s ambiguous smile, he became even more certain that this was a trap set by Xia Ji!


    If he had known that this person was truly rted to the Fang Family, he would never havee here!


    "May I ask how you know about this? Besides Xia Ji, I haven''t mentioned it to anyone else," asked Fang Chen softly.

 Chapter 313 Acquaintances

    <h4>Chapter 313 Acquaintances</h4>


    Xia Ji''s eyes flickered as he looked at Master Chanyuan. "Yes, Master, how did you know about this?"


    Wu Ruochou was shocked. How could there have been members of the Fang Family in such a remote area?


    "I had been in contact with that genius, and I learned from him about the whereabouts of his descendants,¡± said Master Chanyan, then turned to Fang Chen. ¡°When you were one, you met me, and when you were four, you saw me. However, you were too young to remember."


    Upon hearing that, memories flooded Fang Chen''s mind.


    That''s right, he had met this monk before. Not only had he met him, but when he was one year old, this monk had held him and told him some things he didn¡¯t understand. When he was four, he had seen the monk again, but it was just a glimpse, and the monk disappeared into the crowd. So his impression of the old master was not deep.


    It all suddenly struck Xia Ji. <i>No wonder master appeared in Grand Xia. He was there specifically to see Fang Chen¡¯s family. He only happened to notice my talent by chance, which is why he took me in as his disciple.</i>


    He had always thought that his master had passed through Grand Xia by chance amidst his travels, but unbeknownst to him, Grand Xia itself had been his master¡¯s destination.


    The faces of Lin Quan and the others grew even more unsightly.


    "Benefactor, the descendant of the Fang Family is not an evil cultivator, and I don''t sense any evil qi from him," Master Chanyuan said to Lin Quan with a smile.


    "There must¡¯ve been a misunderstanding somewhere." Lin Quan forced a smile. He turned to Fang Chen and sped his fist. "We''ve troubled you. We''ll take our leave now."


    With that, he led the Grand Qian Guards away without waiting for Lin Yu''s opinion.


    Lin Yu and the others remained rooted in ce. Seeing that, Xia Ji couldn''t help butugh and say, "What? The Grand Qian Guards have all left. Do you want to stay and burn a few sticks of incense and pay respects to Buddha?¡±


    Lin Yu''s face contorted. Trying his best to suppress the anger within, he spoke with feigned calmness. "Xia Ji, we just happened toe up the mountain with them. We were here for another reason, and that is to advise you to apologize to Jue Wudi and stop smearing his reputation."


    "Jue Wudi is a hypocrite, and I stand by what I said. I won''t change my words even if it kills me," replied Xia Ji with a confident smile.


    Sensing the firmness in his words, Lin Yu and the others'' expressions changed repeatedly. In the end, they turned and left without a word.


    "The flies have finally buzzed off." Xia Ji chuckled. He then couldn''t help but look at Master Chanyuan. "Master, why didn''t you take Fang Chen as your disciple back then? His talent is even better than mine."


    "Back then, This monk examined him and found that he had no talent for cultivation," said Master Chanyuan, his expression strange.


    Xia Ji was stunned. "He has no talent for cultivation?"


    Wu Ruochou didn''t think much about it since she had already thought that Fang Chen hadn''t even condensed his first immortal vein. She was just curious about how Fang Chen hade here as it was difficult for ordinary people to cross such a distance in their lifetimes.


    "However, the path to immortality is unpredictable, and it holds many possibilities. It seems that Benefactor Fang has managed to find his own way to embark on this path, which is worthy of congrattions," said Master Chanyuan.


    Pausing for a moment, he looked at Fang Chen for a few breaths. "Benefactor Fang, have you been in a fight and injured your foundation? This old monk sees that your blood and qi are weak. You seem to have lost years off your lifespan, too."


    Xia Ji was very surprised. "Fang Chen, you''re injured?"


    Fang Chen nodded lightly, then removed his silver mask, revealing his aged face.


    Xia Ji was immediately stunned, and Wu Ruochou was also shocked. That face wasn¡¯t the face of a young man at all, instead it looked like it belonged to a mortal in his fifties.


    "How could this be?" murmured Xia Ji in disbelief.


    Master Chanyuan sighed softly. "The battles among cultivators are fierce, often resulting in death. Those who dared to fight Benefactor Fang definitely weren¡¯t simple characters.¡±


    "Master, isn''t he someone who hasn''t even condensed a single immortal vein? How could lose years off his lifespan if he¡¯s just a martial artist?" asked Wu Ruochou in astonishment.


    "Although this old monk cannot discern his cultivation level, both the fact that he was able toe to this ce and the fact that he lost some lifespan suggest that his cultivation is not shallow," said Master Chanyuan.


    "Senior Sister, a while ago back at the Qinghue Empire, Fang Chen killed a mid-stage Foundation Building Realm cultivator. Not only has he condensed his immortal veins, but he¡¯s stronger than those at the same realm as him. Forget Jue Wudi,pared to Fang Chen, he''s just an ant. Moreover, Fang Chen is even younger than Jue Wudi! If I remember correctly, Fang Chen¡¯s only twenty-four!"


    "He killed a mid-stage Foundation Building Realm cultivator?" Wu Ruochou''s eyes widened in disbelief, and she subconsciously said, "How is that possible? Even if one starts cultivating in their mother¡¯s womb, achieving such cultivation at this age is unheard of...."


    "It''s absolutely true! I saw it with my own two eyes. He killed the Qinghu Empire¡¯s Demon King Tianfeng. If I hadn¡¯t encountered him along the way, I would have been handed over to Jue Wudi by the Qinghu Empire¡¯s princess!¡±


    Xia Ji turned to Fang Chen, his gaze heavy. "Is there a way to restore the lifespan you''ve lost?"


    "There is, but it''s not urgent." Fang Chen smiled and simply put away his silver mask. There was no need to wear it now.


    "That''s good to hear,¡± said Xia Ji, then added, ¡°And that person you fought...?"


    "He''s dead."


    Xia Ji nodded. "Good."


    Master Chanyuan spoke slowly. "The ultimate goal of cultivators is usually longevity, a testament to the difficulty of the immortal path. Losing lifespan is almost irreversible unless one has ess to rare elixirs and pills, but such items are exceedingly rare.¡±


    Xia Ji was stunned. Would that mean that Fang Chen''s lost lifespan would be difficult to restore?


    A faint smile on his face, Fang Chen said, "A person may not necessarily seek longevity in their lifetime, and the pursuit of immortality may not necessarily be for longevity either. What I seek is not longevity. Therefore, the loss of lifespan is inconsequential to me. If one can live for thousands of years, yet all their loved ones wither away with old age, then what''s the point of bing immortal? To live a few decades and aplish what one wants is enough. That¡¯s a life of no regrets."


    "Fang Chen, you can¡¯t say such things! If you could live longer, you could aplish even more!" Xia Ji''s eyes shed with urgency as he looked at Master Chanyuan. "Master, is there a way topensate for his lost lifespan? They say you¡¯ve lived for a long time, far beyond what ordinary Foundation Building cultivators can live to. There must be some special way, right?"


    Wu Ruochou couldn''t help but admonish him, yelling, "Junior Brother!"


    Amusement appeared in Master Chanyuan''s eyes as he gently waved his hand to indicate that it was okay. Then, he looked at Fang Chen.


    "Benefactor Fang, I have a scripture that may be rted to longevity. However, it''s useless for ordinary people to cultivate it. If you are destined, perhaps you can learn of its secrets."


    Fang Chen was slightly surprised. "This is your secret technique. How can I take a look at it so casually?"


    Master Chanyuan smiled and waved his hand in the air. "It''s not really a secret technique. Most of the prominent cultivators in the Grand Qian Empire have all seen it. This is also why the Profound Void Temple can still exist on Profound Void Mountain."


    Fang Chen suddenly realized. He had been puzzled before. Although the spiritual energy here might not be as rich as in the inner city, it was still a paradise in the outer city. Logically, it should have been divided up by all the powers who had their eyes on them by now.


    As it turned out, Master Chanyuan had used the scripture to exchange for favors.

 Chapter 314: Seeking the Other Shore And Seeing the Sea of Suffering

    <h4>Chapter 314: Seeking the Other Shore And Seeing the Sea of Suffering</h4>


    Apanying Master Chanyuan, the three arrived at the only Buddhist hall in the Profound Void Temple. Inside the hall sat a solemn, golden Buddha statue. It held a lotus flower in one hand and made a Buddhist hand sign with the other. The hand that faced them was inscribed with a dense scripture.


    "Master has a long lifespan because of this scripture,¡± whispered Xia Ji to Fang Chen. ¡°Study it carefully, try toprehend its mysteries. It would be best if you could replenish all the years you¡¯ve lost. I''ll go catch a few mountain chickens and make you soup to nourish your body."


    Fang Chen chuckled. "You know how to cook soup now?"


    Wu Ruochou chimed in subconsciously, "The soup Junior Brother Xia makes is pretty decent.¡±


    Xia Ji''s expression changed, and he tried to brush it off. "Of course. When we''re away from home, we can''t rely on other people.¡±


    Amused, Fang Chen''s eyes shifted to the golden Buddha statue. What drew his attention wasn¡¯t the scripture inscribed on its hand, but the statue itself. He couldn¡¯t help but wonder if this Buddha had ascended through the power of worship, like Supreme Immortal Pudu.


    "Master Chanyuan, how may I address this Buddha?" inquired Fang Chen.


    "Amitabha, this is the Great Wisdom Buddha," replied Master Chanyuan, pressing his hands together in reverence toward the Great Wisdom Buddha.


    "Great Wisdom Buddha?" pondered Fang Chen.


    Master Chanyuan smiled. "Benefactor Fang, you may contemte this scripture here," he said, before taking Wu Ruohou and Xia Ji away and stepping out the hall, leaving Fang Chen alone.


    Fang Chen''s gaze fell on the scripture, but after reading through it from beginning to end, he didn''t experience any sort of special enlightenment.


    Fang Chen smiled wryly. "It seems I am not destined for the Buddhist way."


    He split his divine soul from his body and stared at the Buddha statue again. But after several moments, it remained as it was. There wasn¡¯t any power of incense flowing to it, either. Perhaps, even if the Buddha had once existed in the mortal realm, he had likely long exhausted his lifespan and passed away, or he might¡¯ve ascended to be a true Buddha in the immortal realm.


    Fang Chen''s eyes shifted to the scripture inscribed on the Buddha''s palm.


    Gradually, a golden light started to emanate from the scripture, and the words written on it seemed to havee alive, floating up from the Buddha¡¯s palm and spinning slowly.


    Fang Chen sighed. <i>So it truly is as I thought.</i>


    The strength of one''s divine soul was very crucial to cultivation. Just as he was able to see more of what was written on Mirror of the Universepared to Jiang Zhong, he could perceive this special phenomena rted to the scripture because of his soul.


    Fang Chen smiled bitterly. "However... I have never practiced Buddhism, so I don¡¯t know much about it. Even if this scripture is truly effective, it¡¯ll be difficult for me to utilize it with my limited understanding."


    Yet, just as this thought had crossed Fang Chen¡¯s mind, the scripture, which was spinning slowly, seemed to notice Fang Chen. Each character in the scripture sprung forth, shooting straight through Fang Chen¡¯s forehead.


    Suddenly, his grayish-white eyes were covered with a faint golden glow.


    <i>The Buddha says: The Three Realms are not at peace, like a house on fire, filled with countless sufferings, filled with extreme terror.</i>


    <i>The Buddha says: Seek the other shore and you shall see the sea of suffering.</i>


    <i>The Buddha says:....</i>


    In but a split second, Fang Chen seemed to have witnessed the sufferings of all beings. A sea of mesden with countless sentient beings, all unable to find a moment of peace.


    Then, in the next moment, he saw a familiar mountain.


    Three World Mountain.


    He saw many familiar faces.


    He saw himself, d in silver armor, stained red. There were hundreds of thousands of soldiers behind him, all bravely fighting. One after another, figures fell, while others charged forward fearlessly.


    The earthen soil was dyed red with fresh, young blood. But the pale faces of those to whom this blood belonged remained resolute in death.


    "Li Wei. He only had his mother for family, and she missed him very dearly, longing for his return day and night.¡±


    "Han Cheng. He had three brothers and a sister. I remember his sister got married, and I¡¯ve heard her husband treats her very well; however, Han Cheng couldn¡¯t attend his sister¡¯s wedding feast."


    "Xu Yan. He was a chatterbox, always liked to talk. He¡¯d always speak up for his brethren in the army.... But he can¡¯t no more."


    "Man Hu. He was born in the southern region. He wandered around thend from a young age until he finally enlisted in the army so he could have a filling meal. He had an unfinished steamed bun in his arms before he died."


    Unbeknownst to himself, tears had begun flowing down Fang Chen''s face. These were all people who had fought for Grand Xia. They were young, and perhaps if they hadn''t enlisted in the army, they¡¯d have been able to lead a long life!


    But they chose this path. They had chosen to dedicate their youth to Grand Xia, to thend beneath their feet.


    And none of them had ever let Grand Xia down.


    The anger in Fang Chen¡¯s heart, which he had bottled up for many years, finally filled his mind. "A soldier''s duty is to protect his nation, to die without regret. There is nothing wrong with that. However, this wasn¡¯t how it was supposed to y out! the Spirit Blood Sect, they had a hand in all of this! My soldiers'' deaths were undeserved!


    "Whether their sect has millions or tens of millions of members, whether it has a grandmaster-like expert at its helm, I, Fang Chen, swear that in this lifetime, I shall exterminate every single one of them! I will honor the souls of my fallen brethren with their blood!"


    In an instant, the scene before him vanished, as if it had been a fleeting dream. And in its ce, rose a prosperous empire. The mortals here lived carefree lives, everyone had enough to eat, and everyone had a ce they could call home. Maybe they didn¡¯t seem wealthy, but they weren¡¯t destitute either.


    In this empire, Fang Chen seemed to have seen something he had been seeking for a long time.


    Peace.


    <i>Seeking the other shore, one sees the sea of suffering?</i>


    Fang Chen''s eyes flickered.


    Suddenly, water poured down from the heavens, as if the sky was raining vast oceans, until it had formed a boundless sea between him and the empire, continuously widening the distance between them until he lost sight of it, and all that he could see was the silent sea.


    A smile rose on Fang Chen¡¯s lips.


    "So, this is the other shore I seek."


    Unconsciously, the power of his divine soul that had remained unchanged for six years began to increase visibly to the naked eye.


    A change suddenly began to ur. Fang Chen¡¯s aged face began to return to its youthful state very rapidly; fifty years old, forty years old, thirty years old, twenty years old.


    His appearance seemed to have reverted to when he was just eighteen, before he suffered defeat at Three World Mountain, as if everything was starting anew.


    Outside the Buddhist hall.


    Xia Ji peeked inside the hall every now and then.


    "Junior Brother, Fang... Chen, did he really kill a mid-stage Foundation Building Realm expert? Did he really kill Demon King Tianfeng of the Qinghu Empire?" Wu Ruochou asked, unable to help herself.


    "Senior Sister Wu, do you still not believe me?" Xia Ji rolled his eyes. "Fang Da really killed Demon King Tianfeng."


    "Then how were you able to make it back here?¡± Wu Ruochou frowned. ¡°The ruler of the Qinghu Empire is not a simple character."


    "Because we kidnapped the princess of the Qinghu Empire," said Xia Ji matter-of-factly, a smile up on his face.


    "..."


    Wu Ruochou remained silent for a moment, then said, "You''ve thoroughly offended the Qinghu Empire. Stay away from there from now on."


    Xia Ji nodded earnestly. "Of course. I won¡¯t set a single foot there unless I''m going with Fang Da.¡±


    Wu Ruochou frowned deeply. "I mean it; don¡¯t go there ever again, under any circumstance. Demon cultivators are way too... bloody. I don''t want to see you boiled into soup one day."


    Xia Ji was about to rebut when he suddenly saw a sh of golden lighte from within the hall, followed by a beam of golden light shooting straight into the sky!


    Xia Ji and Wu Ruochou were struck dumb.


    The cultivators and citizens of the Eighteen Districts naturally also saw the bizarre phenomenon that stemmed from within the Profound Void Temple.


    Inside the city, numerous formidable individuals opened their eyes, gazing with uncertainty toward the Profound Void Temple.


    TL Note:


    The meaning behind this is that to seek peace and happiness in an empire (The other shore), the sadness of war and fighting was needed, and he would have to go through it and see it. (So the war and fighting and death is referring to the sea of suffering.)

 Chapter 315: A Day Without Harvest

    <h4>Chapter 315: A Day Without Harvest</h4>


    "Brother Lin, look at Profound Void Mountain!"


    The people who had just descended from the mountain suddenly noticed the phenomena appearing on Profound Void Mountain and called for Lin Yu quickly.


    Lin Yu immediately turned around to see what it was, and what he saw stunned him. There was an extremely thick golden pir shooting through the sky! It was as if a spiritual herb or spiritual treasure had appeared there!


    "The Profound Void Temple used to have a deep background, and it was no weaker than the three major families of Grand Qian. They might¡¯ve had a treasure that they kept hidden, and it only emerged today," said Lin Yu, seemingly a bit jealous.


    "Maybe if we stayed a bit longer up there we could¡¯ve seen the treasure that caused this phenomenon,"mented one of them regretfully.


    Lin Yu suddenly sneered. "Even though Master Chanyuan has a wide circle of acquaintances, if a truly valuable treasure appears, he won''t be able to protect it. Otherwise, how could that scripture, once considered a ssic by the Profound Void Temple and not easily essible even to the monks, end up on the street, for everyone to see? Even my Lin Family has a carved version of that scripture."


    <i>That makes sense</i>, thought everyone in unison. They couldn¡¯t help but start gloating.


    "What should we do about Xia Ji? Should we inform Big Brother Jue?" asked one of them suddenly.


    Lin Yu furrowed his brow slightly. He seemed a little embarrassed at how the situation had yed out up there. "Yes, he has a descendant of the Fang Family with him. Even though it sounds like he¡¯s from a side branch, he¡¯s still not someone we can easily offend.


    He fell silent for a moment, pondering, then nodded. "Let''s go together."


    ***


    Outside the Profound Void Temple, in front of the Buddha Hall.


    The golden light had finally disappeared, and Xia Ji looked dumbfoundedly at Fang Chen, who had just walked out of the Buddha Hall.


    "Fang Da, you... look younger?"


    Fang Chenughed. "Is that so?"


    Wu Rouchou was stunned for a moment before she regained her senses. Fang Chen was really handsome as a young man....


    <i>No, wait a minute!</i>


    Wu Ruochou finally reacted, and her heart skipped a beat as she stared at Fang Chen


    Why is he suddenly much younger?


    She thought back to that light they had seen, and her eyes widened.


    No way, could it be....?


    Had Fang Chen gleaned something from the scripture?!


    But there were many experts from Grand Qian who had tried to uncover andprehend its mysteries; however, none of them were able to gain enlightenment through it. To them, It was nothing more than an ordinary Buddhist scripture!


    Master Chanyuan suddenly appeared again, this time, his face was solemn. "Benefactor Fang, have you found the other shore in your heart?"


    "Yes, I have." Fang Chen nodded, sping his hands together. "Thanks for your help."


    "You don¡¯t need to thank this old monk." Master Chanyuan sighed. "Since you were able to find the other shore in your heart, Benefactor Fang, then it shows that you¡¯ve attained great enlightenment and have a broad mind. Even countless eminent monks in the Buddhist world have not reached your level." Pausing for a moment, he suddenly looked into the distance, then smiled at the three of them. "Go back to the tea room and sit still for a while. There are guestsing. Remember not to tell anyone about what happened here today."


    Fang Chen''s eyes flickered slightly. His divine soul left his body to scout ahead, and indeed, he sensed many powerful aura¡¯s heading this way. He could even sense a few auras simr to that of Immortal Sea Dragon¡¯s. Those were probably at the Golden Core Realm, they had to have been attracted by the phenomena he had caused.


    After his soul returned to his body, Fang Chen followed Xia Ji back to the tea room.


    Before Xia Ji could open his mouth, he heard Fang Chen say, "Excuse me as I rest for a bit,¡± then saw him close his eyes.


    Fan Chen¡¯s divine soul appeared in midair, waiting silently.


    Before long, several figuresnded in front of the Buddha Hall, one after another.


    The first to catch Fang Chen¡¯s attention was a middle-aged man who wore a green robe; he had a hooked nose and a gloomy gaze. He had long, wide sleeves that almost touched the ground.


    That was the Golden Core Realm expert from the Jue Family.


    Next was an old man in a in gray robe, with a gourd about a foot long hanging from his waist, shining brightly.


    That was the Golden Core Realm expert from the Fang Family.


    Finally, thest was a woman who appeared to be in her forties. She was beautiful, and she wore an attire that seemed quite luxurious. There was a majestic air to her.


    She was from the Grand Qian imperial family.


    Apart from these three Golden Core Realm experts, Fang Chen could sense several other auras down Profound Void Mountain, however they had seemingly chosen not to scale the mountain.


    "Amitabha." Master Chanyuan greeted with folded hands. "It¡¯s nice to see you, Fellow Daoists."


    "Master Chanyuan, no need to be polite. Just now, I was in seclusion and I sensed somethinging from here. There was golden light stemming from your Profound Void Temple. It reminded me of that scene from hundreds of years ago," said the man with a hooked nose with a light smile. "Have you managed to deepen yourprehension in that scripture?"


    "I''ve been fortunate enough to gain some insights, yes," replied Master Chanyuan modestly, nodding.


    The woman from the imperial family spoke up next. "Fortunate?¡± she said. ¡°We couldn¡¯t grasp its essence even after hundreds of years of contemtion. Yet, you, relying on this scripture, have managed to extend your life by one or two hundred years, which shows how extraordinary this scripture is." She eyed the Buddha Hall solemnly. They had many copies of this scripture back at the pce, but even after hundreds of years, no one had managed toprehend it.


    <i>Does one have to join the Profound Void Temple in order toprehend the scripture? </i>she thought.


    Ordinary Foundation Building Realm cultivators had a lifespan of at most two or three hundred years, and Golden Core Realm cultivators only had about five or six hundred. It wouldn¡¯t be until the Nascent Soul Realm that one would possess a lifespan of around eight hundred to a thousand years. On the other hand, Master Chanyuan, who had always been in the early stages of the Foundation Building Realm, had a lifespan that already exceeded four hundred years, making him as old as those old monsters in the Golden Core Realm.


    "It seems that Master Chanyuan may live longer than all of us in the future," said the man with the hooked nose, sighing, his eyes lingering on the Buddha Hall.


    Master Chanyuan smiled. "If you wish to gain insights into the scripture, you cane here at any time, and I will wee you with open arms. Perhaps if you quieten your mind and study Buddhism, it may help youprehend the scripture better....¡±


    "Buddhism? That path doesn¡¯t fit us." The Golden Core Realm expert from the Fang Family shook his head slightly before stepping quickly into the Buddha Hall. The other two Golden Core Realm experts followed suit.


    The three of them stood before the golden statue of the Buddha, gazing at the scripture in the palm of the Buddha''s hand.


    Master Chanyuan stood quietly behind them, a hint of sigh in his eyes. There was a time when that scripture was treasured by Profound Void Temple, and only the abbot and head monk were qualified to view it. Nowadays, however, anyone whoes to Profound Void Temple, even ordinary mortals, can enter the Buddha hall to see it.


    That decision naturally came from the current abbot, who was also the only monk of Profound Void Temple, Master Chanyuan. This was the only way the temple could keep the scripture, after all.


    After looking at the scripture for a while, the three of them ultimately exchanged silent nces.


    They understood every single character of the scripture thoroughly, yet when put together, they always felt like something was missing.


    Today proved to be another unfruitful attempt.


    "Forget it,¡± said the Golden Core Realm expert from the Fang Family, taking a sip of wine from his gourd. ¡°Let''s go back and have some good drink instead."


    The other two exchanged looks, nodded lightly at Master Chanyuan, and also disappeared into thin air.


    Some cultivators began to scale the mountain one after another after the three left. Among them were Foundation Building cultivators, Qi Refining cultivators, and even a few Golden Core Realm cultivators, butpared to the three who were here earlier, the foundations of these Golden Core Realm cultivators seemed slightly inferior.


    Fang Chen had been observing, and he had gained a bit of understanding regarding the situation of the Profound Void Temple. He couldn¡¯t help but admire Master Chanyuan, for he had been able to preserve this treasure of the Profound Void Temple alone for hundreds of years. Not just anyone could¡¯ve allowed themselves to make the same decision he had made.


    With a thought, Fang Chen¡¯s divine soul returned to his body.


    He opened his eyes and turned to Wu Ruochou. "Senior Sister Wu, what happened to the Profound Void Temple in the past? Does it have anything to do with my family¡¯s ancestor?"


    Xia Ji''s eyes turned serious when he heard that. He had thought of this too. Since Master Chanyuan had gone to visit the descendants of that Fang Family genius, then the two stories had to be connected in some way. They just had to be, no one would believe otherwise.


    Wu Ruochou was startled for a moment and shook her head slightly. "Master has never discussed this matter in detail with us."


    Suddenly, Master Chanyuan¡¯s voice sounded from outside. "Benefactor Fang, pleasee outside.¡±

 Chapter 316: The Grudges of the Old

    <h4>Chapter 316: The Grudges of the Old</h4>


    Fang Chen walked out of the tea room under the admiring eyes of Xia Ji and followed Master Chanyuan into a meditation room.


    "Benefactor Fang, you have sharp insight; you''ve already guessed the connection between Profound Void Temple and your ancestor," said Master Chanyuan, smiling.


    Fang Chen smiled back. "Xia Ji has also guessed it, he wasn¡¯t just asking."


    Master Chanyuan nodded lightly. "Xia Ji has an excellent temperament, but unfortunately, I cannot teach him Buddhist teachings."


    "Master, could you please talk about that incident?" requested Fang Chen.


    "If it was anyone else, I wouldn¡¯t tell them about it; however, you¡¯re different. That incident happened exactly 394 years ago. I was only six years old at the time, just a novice monk who had recently scaled the mountain."


    <i>Master Chanyuan is four hundred years old?</i>


    Fang Chen felt a bit amazed. Despite being only at the Foundation Building Realm, Master Chanyuan was four hundred years old. It seemed that the end of his lifespan had not yet arrived, which exined why various forces had been eyeing this ce.


    "Profound Void Temple was still flourishing back then, and Buddhism was revered as the religion of the empire. The three Golden Core Realm ancestors in the temple were all national teachers of the empire. Under their leadership, the monks spread the Buddhist teachings, and every household in the Grand Qian Empire worshiped Buddha," reminisced Master Chanyuan, his eyes nostalgic.


    "It was also during that time that the Fang Family produced an extraordinary talent. His cultivation talent was astonishing. He formed his first immortal vein at the age of six, reached the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm at thirteen, and entered the Foundation Building Realm at fifteen. Therefore, he was extremely valued by a sect and was recruited under their banner. Everyone guessed that the sect hailed from a first-tier empire."


    <i>First-tier empire? My ancestor was a disciple of a first-tier empire? </i>


    Fang Chen was surprised.


    "He entered that sect at fifteen. And by the time he returned to the empire, he was already in his early thirties, and by then, he was already a Golden Core Realm powerhouse.


    "Even though I have never been to a first-tier empire, I can still conclude that he must¡¯ve been a genius among geniuses over there with his talent.


    "If that incident hadn¡¯t happened, then I¡¯d imagine that his cultivation would¡¯ve reached an unimaginable realm after these four hundred years." Master Chanyuan sighed. "With regards to this matter, the Profound Void Temple failed him, the Fang Family failed him, the Jue Family failed him, and the Grand Qian Empire failed him."


    "Master Chanyuan, what exactly happened?" asked Fang Chen, unable to hold back his curiosity. Had his ancestor been manipted by these factions?


    But how could mere cultivators from the Grand Qian Empire dare toy hands on a Golden Core Realm cultivator who was recruited under a sect from a first-tier empire?


    "It¡¯s veryplicated. So far, I can only guess that he offended a powerful enemy in the first-tier empire. The three Golden Core Realm ancestors of Profound Void Temple were coerced into tricking him into drinking a tea that scattered his cultivation.


    "He had sensed that something was wrong back then and burned several Communication Talismans, but neither the Jue Family, the Fang Family, nor even the Grand Qian Empire intervened."


    Fang Chen furrowed his brow.


    "In just a dozen breaths of time, his Golden Core cracked, and his cultivation plummeted to the Foundation Building Realm.


    "I was young back then, but one of the ancestors had taken me with them, so I witnessed this incident with my own eyes. I remember the three ancestors felt very guilty about it. One of them even passed away on the spot. The other two announced that the Profound Void Temple would close its doors for a thousand years."


    "And what about my ancestor?" asked Fang Chen softly.


    "He left the mountain and returned to the Fang Family, only to be expelled by the ancestor of the Fang Family. He left after that, and we didn¡¯t know where he had gone off to for many years," said Master Chanyuan as he slowly closed his eyes.


    "And who was the female cultivator who massacred Profound Void Temple?" asked Fang Chen.


    "That female cultivator.... She must¡¯ve known your ancestor. She came demanding an exnation over what had happened to him. When the truth was revealed, she beheaded the two ancestors with a sh of her sword. And as you know, I was the only who managed to survive, all thanks to luck. But from that day, I became unable to pass down the Buddhist teachings to anyone. If I die, the inheritance of Profound Void Temple will die with me," said Master Chanyuan, sighing softly.


    "Didn¡¯t the sect behind my ancestor seek an exnation for this?" pondered Fang Chen.


    "They did not. Since then, the female cultivator has not returned, your ancestor has not been seen, and the sect behind your ancestor has not appeared either. It''s as if this incident never happened," said Master Chanyuan.


    <i>Except for the massacre of Profound Void Temple, </i>thought Master Chanyuan.


    This entire situation was really strange. If Fang Chen¡¯s ancestor had offended someone, why would that someone act against him in such a roundabout manner? Was it because they feared the sect behind him? But the sect never intervened¡ªwhich is suspicious in and of itself.


    Perhaps one would have to meet that female cultivator if one wanted to understand what had happened clearly.


    "Benefactor Fang, the current ancestor of the Fang Family, is the younger brother of your ancestor. The Fang Family had said back then that if a descendent of your ancestor was to step onto the immortal path, then they¡¯d recognize back into the family,¡± said Master Chanyuan softly. ¡°This is an opportunity for you, Benefactor Fang.¡±


    Fang Chen nodded. His grandfather hoped that he would be recognized by the family, so this could count as him fulfilling his grandfather''s wishes. And, that aside, the Fang Family had to know more about what had happened back then, so this was an opportunity to learn more about it.


    <i>I''ll discuss this with Xia Ji, he¡¯s got a knack for figuring out these types of things, </i>thought Fang Chen.


    Master Chanyuan stopped speaking and closed his eyes. He began reciting Buddhist scriptures in a low voice.


    Fang Chen knew that this was Master Chanyuan¡¯s way of bidding him farewell, so he got up to leave. However, as he reached the door, he paused.


    Turning around, Fang Chen asked, "Master Chanyuan, what kind of ''other shore'' did you seek back then?"


    Master Chanyuan remained silent for a while without answering.


    Fang Chen saw a bitter smile rise on Master Chanyuan¡¯s lips.


    "For me to reteach the Buddhist teachings and revitalize Profound Void Temple.¡±


    ***


    Xia Ji had been waiting outside the courtyard for quite a long time. When he saw Fang Chen step outside the meditation room, he walked over, his eyes urging Fang Chen to spill it all out.


    "It¡¯s a bitplicated. Tell me what you think after,¡± Fang Chen said to Xia Ji as they walked to a nearby ancient tree.


    Fang Chen recounted the story to Xia Ji.


    After Fang Chen finished speaking, a serious expression appeared on Xia Ji''s face. "Someone in that first-tier empire aimed to harm your ancestor, but they didn¡¯t dare act directly. They lurked in the shadows, which meant that there was something that they feared.


    "Your ancestor¡¯s sect did not send anyone, but instead, a female cultivator appeared and massacred the Profound Void Temple." Xia Ji looked at Fang Chen. ¡°Is there a possibility that the person who had plotted against your ancestor feared that female cultivator and the sect behind her?"


    "You mean..." pondered Fang Chen,"that the one who had plotted against my ancestor was actually someone from the same sect as him?"


    Xia Ji nodded slightly. "Besides that, I can''t think of any other reason as to why your ancestor¡¯s sect would gopletely silent regarding this matter. The mastermind must hold a high position and have a certain degree of status. Otherwise, your ancestor would have returned to the sect instead of leaving for a remote ce,¡± said Xia Ji. ¡°I think that this entire situation had been bred from jealousy, and it was an attempt by that person to eliminate dissidents.¡±


    Xia Ji assessed Fang Chen for a moment, then mouthed, "Fang Da, this happened hundreds of years ago¡ªit¡¯s a grudge of the old. It''s best for you not to get involved. You can¡¯t imagine how powerful these sects in first-tier empires are."

 Chapter 317: Jue Wudi

    <h4>Chapter 317: Jue Wudi</h4>


    Fang Chen knew that Xia Ji was concerned about him, so he gently patted his shoulder.


    "Don''t worry, I know what I''m doing."


    Xia Ji nodded slightly. "Even though this incident happened hundreds of years ago, there are still some rumors going around about it. I will help you keep an eye out for these rumors. Maybe we can gather the scattered clues and paint ourselves the full picture of what happened.¡±


    "Don''t let it dy your cultivation," said Fang Chen.


    Xia Ji smiled. "It¡¯s fine, my cultivation level isn¡¯t that high, and I¡¯ll still try my best. Besides, with those three thousand low-grade spirit stones, it¡¯ll be hard to fall behind in my cultivation even if I wanted to,¡¯ he said, getting up. ¡°I am heading down the mountain, I think I¡¯ll buy some pills and treasures while I¡¯m at it.¡±


    "I''ll tag along with you. It just so happens that I also need to visit the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion."


    "Aren¡¯t you going to the Fang Family?¡± Xia Ji asked.


    Fang Chen smiled. "We''re already in the Grand Qian Imperial City, so there''s no rush. The Fang Family can''t possibly run away."


    The two of them descended the mountain together and headed toward the inner city. Fang CHen learned along the way that any cultivator that wished to enter the inner city needed to pay one spirit stone. Staying overnight wasn¡¯t allowed, too.


    Things weren¡¯t so strict for the regr mortals, however, but they couldn¡¯t enter the inner city unless they were employed by apany that operated inside it.


    "Is he a guest of your Profound Void Temple? I''ll register him under Profound Void Temple if that¡¯s the case. If he breaks thew while he¡¯s in the inner city, your temple will be held liable," said a soldier in front of the city gate, casting a nce at Fang Chen as he made a few strokes on the paper. Then, after warning Xia Ji once more, they were allowed to pass.


    Fang Chen noticed from this that that the higher-tier empires seemingly had stricter regtions and restrictions with regards to dealing with cultivators. A cultivator probably wouldn¡¯t be able to obtain a sense of freedom residing in these ces, it was better to find a secluded immortal paradise to live and cultivate in.


    However, that also had its drawbacks. For one, they wouldn¡¯t be able to easily obtain the resources needed for cultivation. Staying in the Grand Qian Imperial City meant that one would hardly find obtaining resources difficult. As long as one had enough spirit stones, then there were countless businesses, like the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion, that could provide them with enough resources.


    As they passed by a teahouse, a voice suddenly rang out from the second floor. "Isn''t that Xia Ji?"


    "Brother Jue, let me go down and bring him up."


    Fang Chen and Xia Ji looked up to see more than a dozen young men and women on the second floor of the tea house, some sitting and some standing. Lin Yu was among them.


    Besides Lin Yu, there was a young man who had a determined face. He exuded a deep and unfathomable aura that had clearly reached the early stage of the Foundation Building Realm.


    The young man nced lightly at Xia Ji, then turned his gaze to Fang Chen, smiling and nodding in acknowledgment.


    "This guy looks so handsome without his mask," said Lin Yu peculiarly.


    Soon, a young man approached Fang Chen and Xia JI. Smiling faintly, he invited them inside. "Gentlemen, Brother Jue requests your presence."


    ¡°We''re busy. If it''s nothing important, don''t waste our time,¡± replied Xia Ji casually.


    The youngman¡¯s face stiffened, then he said, "Xia Ji, don''t be ungrateful. Brother Jue has tolerated enough of your nder and usations. He¡¯s inviting you up to resolve the matter over a cup of tea!¡±


    "We''ve had our fill of tea already, so there''s no need," Fang Chen said with a faint smile, walking past the man with Xia Ji. They continued toward the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion down the road.


    The young man''s face alternated between pale and green.


    The youngsters on the second floor were furious at the scene.


    "These two don''t know their ce!"


    "Xia Ji is really too arrogant."


    "Brother Jue, you must not be so forgiving anymore. We mustn''t let him off the hook, lest others follow suit and nder you at every chance."


    "Yes, Brother Jue, you''ve helped countless young juniors over the years, even Xia Ji has benefited from your kindness. Even if he isn¡¯t grateful for what you did for him, he shouldn''t turn his back on you, right?"


    Facing the words of these young cultivators, Jue Wudi withdrew his gaze from Fang Chen and lifted the teacup to his mouth, taking a sip.


    "Everyone, wordse from others'' mouths, and I can''t control what they say. I beseech all of you not to take this matter to heart. Please, continue to enjoy your tea.


    "If you want to progress along the path of cultivation, you not only need to cultivate your body but also your mind. If your mindset can''t keep up, how can you break through the shackles and reach the next realm?"


    The crowd was stunned briefly, then admiration crept up their faces¡ªit was especially the case for the women, whose eyes were practically shining.


    This was Brother Jue, a man with a seemingly broad mind. Even when ndered and maligned, he could still maintain such a carefree attitude.


    "Brother Jue, we admire you too much. If it were us, we wouldn''t be able to bear this humiliation," said Lin Yu, sighing.


    The others nodded in agreement.


    "Go back and return to your cultivation after you finish your tea, everyone. I remember the trade conference is just around the corner, right? This may be your chance to meet the experts from the fourth-tier empires and even the seniors from the various fifth-tier empires. There might be Pill Masters, Artifact Masters, Talisman Masters, and even Formation Mastersing." Jue Wudi smiled. "If you could convince any of them to take you in as their disciple, then your path to immortality would prove to be much smoother,¡± he said. ¡°If not, then prepare some spirit stones at the very least. Perhaps you¡¯ll be able to buy some spiritual herbs and materials that are rare and notmonly seen, which would be beneficial for your cultivation."


    Everyone nodded in understanding.


    At the same time, Fang Chen and Xia JI had already arrived at the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion.


    A store clerk approached the two. "Feel free to tell me whatever you need.¡±


    "Do you have any Spirit Essence Pills up for sale?"asked Xia Ji casually.


    The store clerk''s eyes lit up slightly. Spirit Essence Pills were mid-grade, yellow rank pills that were beneficial for both Qi Refining and Foundation Building cultivators. If a Qi Refining cultivator consumed it, it could rece several months¡¯ worth of hard cultivation. Since it was very difficult to concoct these pills, added to the fact that Pill Masters were scarce, the prices of these pills were high, and the profit on them was substantial.


    "Guests, Spirit Essence Pills are priced at ny low-grade spirit stones per pill today. How many do you intend to buy?"


    "Ten, please," said Xia Ji casually. He couldn¡¯t buy more than this, since he needed to save some spirit stones for the uing trade conference.


    "Ten?" The store clerk was shocked. He found it hard to believe that this modestly dressed young man before him could fish out a whole nine hundred spirit stones¡ªthat amount was more than enough to buy mid-grade, yellow rank treasure that had thirty-four to thirty-six Soul Imprints. Even many Foundation Building Realm cultivators would find it very difficult to fish out such an amount all at once.


    Regaining hisposure, the store clerk beckoned. "Please follow me, sir," he said, visibly much more respectful than before.


    "You go ahead, I''ll buy some things,¡± Fang Chen said to Xia JI with a smile. ¡°We''ll meet at the entrance when we¡¯re done."


    Xia Ji nodded and followed the servant.


    Another servant was promptly called over to attend to Fang Chen. The attitude and awareness of the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion here was much better than that of the pavilion in the Qinghu Empire.


    "What would you like to buy, sir?"


    ncing around, Fang Chen saw various spiritual materials being sold on the ground floor, but he noticed that they were all of the low-grade, yellow rank.


    "Do you buy talismans here?"


    The store clerk furrowed his brow slightly. <i>He¡¯s here to sell? </i>


    He casually pointed in a direction. "If you have something to sell, please go over there to find Deacon Wu. He''s the one in charge of that."


    With that, the servant immediately turned to wee another iing customer very enthusiastically.


    Fang Chen saw Deacon Wu, who the store clerk had spoken of, buying spiritual materials off of a customer. He was seemingly very cold, and he offered the seller low prices, but the seller didn¡¯t dare voice out any displeasure.


    After he was done with that customer, Deacon Wu eyes drifted toward Fang Chen, who had been waiting. "What do you want to sell?" he asked indifferently.

 Chapter 318: Struggle

    <h4>Chapter 318: Struggle</h4>


    "I have some talismans I want to sell,¡± said Fang Chen casually.


    Deacon Wu frowned. "Ordinary talismans can be sold at the small shops down the street. We don¡¯t ept those here."


    "Deacon Wu, I have middle-grade, yellow rank spiritual herbs here I want to sell," said a customer from behind Fang Chen, interjecting. He took out a dozen types of herbs, and with an oily smile, he said, "Please offer me a higher price this time. The Nocturnal Valley has been extremely dangeroustely, and many brothers were injured just to obtain these spiritual herbs."


    "Alright, let me take a look. If the quality is good, I''ll give you a slightly higher price. After all, you¡¯re one of our regrs, aren''t you?" said Deacon Wu, nodding with a smile as he began to appraise the spiritual herbs, ignoring Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen couldn¡¯t help but smile; it seemed that the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion was the same everywhere.


    "Young man, what kind of spiritual talismans are you selling? I''m nning to buy some for my daughter for self-defense. I''ll buy them from you if they¡¯re suitable," a middle-aged man behind Fang Chen kindly asked him.


    Fang Chen turned to look at the middle-aged man.


    The middle-aged man was surprised to see his white eyes.<i> Hmm, is he blind? How did a disabled man be a cultivator? Was he blinded in a fight?</i>


    Fang Chen could tell that the middle-aged man was Foundation Building Realm cultivation even with his restrained aura.


    "They¡¯re peak-grade Purple Lightning Talismans. Are you interested?" said Fang Chen casually after some thought.


    The middle-aged man was taken aback, his surprise palpable. "Peak-grade Purple Lightning Talismans?" he repeated incredulously. "How many do you have, and what''s the price?"


    Fang Chen smiled. "You can name your price. I don''t have many, just a little over a hundred."


    <i>Over a hundred peak-grade Purple Lightning Talismans?</i>


    The middle-aged man was astounded.


    He hadn¡¯t been this surprised in many years since he had be a Foundation Building Realm cultivator.


    These types of talismans were very rare, and they were coveted everywhere, to the point where they¡¯d be snagged up almost immediately when they appeared on the market. Yet, apparently this young man before him had over a hundred of them!


    Purple Lightning Talismans were mostly used on the offensive, and the fact that these were peak grade meant that their power had to be astonishing. They were the best type of low-grade, yellow rank talismans for self-defense, they were very popr around sect disciples and were second to none.


    Deacon Wu, who had been busy appraising a couple of spiritual herbs, immediately swiveled his head to stare at Fang Chen with astonishment after he heard what Fang Chen had said.


    The customer whose spiritual herbs were being appraised was simrly surprised. Did he hear that right, or was his ears messing with him?


    The middle-aged man, sensing that the atmosphere in the shop had turned quite odd, quickly said to Fang Chen, "Let''s discuss this at a tea house, young man."


    Fang Chen nodded with a smile. "Sure."


    Deacon Wu jumped out from behind the counter quickly and crossed to stand in front of them, blocking their way. "Hold on a moment."


    There was a smile on Deacon Wu¡¯s face. "Since this young man wants to sell Purple Lightning Talismans, it''s only appropriate for him to sell them to our Heavenly Treasure Pavilion. The prices we offer are very reasonable."


    The middle-aged man¡¯s face darkened. "Didn¡¯t you just tell him to find another shop to sell his talismans? Now that I want to buy them from him, you¡¯re going to hinder the transaction. Isn¡¯t that inappropriate?"


    Deacon Wu nced at him indifferently. "If you want to buy Purple Lightning Talismans, wait until our Heavenly Treasure Pavilion gets them from him, and then we''ll set some aside for you. Since he¡¯s in the pavilion, it¡¯s only right for him to sell them here, to us.¡±


    "You¡¯re way too arrogant! I refuse to believe that you can be so domineering in the Grand Qian Empire." the middle-aged Foundation Building Realm cultivator suddenly sneered, and his aura suddenly spread, stifling.


    Deacon Wu was only at the 12th stage of Qi Refining, so he immediately felt the pressure weighing down on him.


    He was pressured, but not afraid, however; there was a Golden Core Realm cultivator overseeing the pavilion, so for a Foundation Building Realm to cause trouble here was simplyughable.


    "What''s going on?"


    "Someone¡¯s arguing with Deacon Wu? Foolish! This is Heavenly Treasure Pavilion! Does he not want to be able to buy things here from now on?¡±


    The customers in the store whispered to each other.


    Some of the cultivators around came over to try and de-escte the situation.


    "How can we address you? Can you give Deacon Wu some face? Let¡¯s not blow this out of proportion."


    Deacon Wu was smiling smugly.


    "My name is Fang Ao," said the middle-aged man. ¡°You should show me some respect if you don¡¯t want to blow this out of proportion.¡±


    "Fang Family? It seems he''s a Foundation Building Realm expert from the Fang Family¡¯s third branch."


    There were whispers all around.


    Wu Jiuquan¡¯s expression stiffened slightly. He hadn''t expected the man to be from the Fang Family. This made things a bit moreplicated.


    Themotion had caught the attention of the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion cultivators. A few momentster, a middle-aged man in green approached withrge strides and smiled at Fang Ao.


    "Brother Fang, my subordinate was ignorant. Please don''t take offense. It''s all a misunderstanding. Let''s sit down and talk."


    "Shopkeeper Wu, there isn¡¯t any misunderstanding. I''m here to make a deal with this young man. Please don''t interfere."


    Wu Jiuquan¡¯s expression shifted. Stepping a little closer to Shopkeep Wu, he whispered, "Uncle, this deal he¡¯s talking about involves Purple Lightning Talismans, that¡¯s why I intervened."


    <i>Purple Lightning Talismans!?</i>


    Shopkeeper Wu''s expression changed as he looked at Fang Chen and Fang Ao.


    After a moment, he smiled and said, "Brother Fang, if the customer was here to sell us the Purple Lightning Talismans, then ording to the rules, you can¡¯t just jump at the opportunity and im you¡¯ll buy them off him. That¡¯s not how things work in the pavilion.¡±


    "That¡¯s not what happened. It¡¯s your nephew that doesn¡¯t have any patience. He told the young man that he should go and sell the talismans at another shop. Since that was the case, I thought it¡¯d be better If I bought them from him."


    Shopkeeper Wu looked at Wu Jiuquan.


    Wu Jiuquan''s expression changed slightly. He tried to exin himself hastily, "Uncle, I thought he was going to sell me Divine Movement Talismans or something...."


    The shopkeeper¡¯s face darkened. He finally understood why this dispute had even happened, it was all because of this nephew of his.


    "Even if he was going to sell you Divine Movement Talismans, you shouldn''t have pushed him away. Haven¡¯t I told you this before?"


    "Uncle, I was wrong," Wu Jiuquan lowered his head, not a shred of his usual arrogance could be seen.


    Many of the customers watching felt strangely happy to see him like this.


    Then, the gazes of the customers present fell on Fang Chen gazes subconsciously, feeling perplexed. Purple Lightning Talismans? These were rare talismans meant for personal use. Which wasteful family scion was this?


    ¡°I¡¯ll deal with you after I¡¯m done with this deal,¡± said Shopkeeper Wu coldly to Wu Jiuquan.


    With that, he turned to Fang Chen, putting on a more friendly face. "Young man, just now was a mishandling on our part, causing you much offense. I wonder how many Purple Lightning Talismans you''re selling, and what grade they are? We are willing to buy them."


    Fang Ao''s brow furrowed slightly. "Shopkeeper Wu, do you think I''m invisible?"


    Shopkeeper Wu bowed repeatedly. "Sorry, sorry, I was just following the rules. Brother Fang Ao, please forgive me for any offense."


    Fang Ao''s face was grim. However, when he saw how humble Shopkeeper Wu was acting, he found it difficult to push the matter.


    "How much are you offering for the peak-grade Purple Lightning Talisman?" asked Fang Chen.


    Shopkeeper Wu¡¯s eyes lit up. <i>They¡¯re peak grade?</i>


    This grade yielded extraordinary profits. With proper management, they could even yield a profit margin of thirty to forty percent!


    Thinking of that, Shopkeeper Wu immediately replied, "We can offer you twenty-eight pieces of low-grade spirit stones for each talisman."


    "That''s too little.¡± Fang Chen turned to Fang Ao. ¡°Senior, how much are you offering?"


    Fang Ao''s eyes flickered in thought, after a moment, he said, "I won''t bid against the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion. I''ll offer one price. If you find the price okay, then sell it to me. If the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion offers a higher price, you can sell it to them."


    Fang Chen nodded. "Please go on, senior."


    Thinking it over for a moment, Fang Ao offered, "Thirty-five pieces of low-grade spirit stones for each one. If that¡¯s okay with you, I''ll take them all."

 Chapter 319: My Ancestor, Fang Tingyuan

    <h4>Chapter 319: My Ancestor, Fang Tingyuan</h4>


    <i>Thirty-five? </i>


    Fang Chen nodded. This price was pretty good. It had even exceeded his initial expectations.


    Just as Fang Chen was about to speak, the shopkeeper, furrowing his brow, said, "Thirty-five low-grade spirit stones? You won¡¯t be making a profit at all."


    Fang Ao chuckled. "You¡¯re the one trying to make a profit. I¡¯m just buying them for personal use, so why would I need to profit?"


    The shopkeeper nodded. "Very well, then we won''tpete with you for these few talismans, Brother Fang. If I make an offer of thirty-five low-grade spirit stones, I won¡¯t be able to make a profit at all.¡±


    Wu Jiuquan was stunned, and his tongue suddenly felt all tied up.


    Fang Ao seemed to have caught on to something, as he startedughing heartily before turning to Fang Chen with a smile. "Little brother, how many Purple Lightning Talismans do you have on hand? Tell me so I can calcte how much I¡¯ll need to pay. I¡¯ll have someone bring the spirit stones immediately."


    ncing at his storage ring, Fang Chen said, "I have about a 116."


    Fang Ao looked somewhat excited when he heard that. "Are they all peak-grade?"


    Fang Chen nodded slightly. "Yes."


    The shopkeeper, who had been about to leave, stopped right in his tracks. Did he hear that correctly? <i>116 peak-grade Purple Lightning Talismans?!</i>


    By now, Fang Ao had already burned several Communication Talismans, and he was now chatting with Fang Chen to find out about his background.


    The shopkeeper''s eyes slowly drifted toward Wu Jiuquan, staring unblinkingly at him. The sternness in his eyes was palpable.


    Wu Jiuquan kept his head low, not daring to meet his eyes. He had caused quite the mess.


    Selling over a hundred Purple Lightning Talismans would a profit of at least several hundred spirit stones, that¡¯s enough to buy a mid-grade, yellow rank treasure.


    But that wasn¡¯t the most important part; when it came to Purple Lightning Talismans, profit was secondary, as one could leverage them as favors, since they were very scarce.


    Wu Jiuquan''s heart dropped to his stomach.


    Shopkeeper Wu tried to salvage the situation, stering a nice smile and sping his fist. "I didn''t know you had so much to sell, Little brother, that¡¯s why I set the price rather low. Would you be willing to sell all your Purple Lightning Talismans to us if I set the price at thirty-six spirit stones?"


    Fang Ao frowned slightly but remained silent. Even though what Shopkeeper Who was doing was quite hical, this was business at the end of the day¡ªthe highest bidder won.


    Fang Chen smiled faintly. "Nope. I''ve alreadye to an agreement with senior. What''s the point of earning an extra hundred or so low-grade spirit stones?"


    Fang Ao immediately showed a hint of a smile when he heard that, nodding gently.


    The shopkeeper''s expression shifted erratically, and his smile turned a little forced. "In that case, may I have the honor of seeing the peak-grade Purple Lightning Talisman?"


    Oh...


    Everyone suddenly realized what was going on.


    Both Fang Ao and Wu Jiuquan also looked at Fang Chen. They had talked so much already but they hadn¡¯t seen the Purple Lightning Talismans yet. What if this person had just been boasting?


    A glimmer of hope shed in Wu Jiuquan''s eyes. <i>If he¡¯s boasting then I wouldn¡¯t be faulted! </i>


    Fang Chen smiled and directly took out ten peak-grade Purple Lightning Talismans, giving five to Fang Ao and five to the shopkeeper.


    "The lightning aura is rich, these are Purple Lightning Talismans without a doubt!" Fang Ao was so overjoyed, he didn¡¯t want to put them down from his hand. If used well, these five Purple Lightning Talismans could easily allow a weak Qi Refining Realm cultivator to kill a 12th stage Qi Refining Realm cultivator!


    Shopkeeper Wu instantly knew that these talismans were really peak-grade Purple Lightning Talismans as soon as he touched them, and his smile crumbled. Wu Jiuquan had cost the pavilion hundreds of spirit stones because of his mistake.


    Thinking of that, Shopkeeper Wu turned to Wu Jiuquan, coldly saying, "Wu Jiuquan, you''ve lost your sry for the year. Reflect on your mistake. If anything simr happens again, you can go back to your family. I don''t need your help out here."


    Wu Jiuquan''s expression stiffened. A whole year''s sry...


    His monthly sry was only six low-grade spirit stones, so he only made seventy-two spirit stones in a year. The loss was too heavy.


    Fang Ao chuckled. "Shopkeeper Wu, disciplining your subordinate in private should be enough. Who are you trying to impress with this public scolding? Docking his annual sry is just a p on the wrist. He won''t learn from it."


    Wu Jiuquan felt resentful. Did he really have to kick him when he was down?


    ¡°Thank you for your concern.¡± Shopkeeper Wu smiled insincerely. ¡°I believe my subordinate will learn the importance of humility from now on and willpromise when dealing with the other people.¡±


    That remark seemed to carry another meaning, reminding Fang Ao not to push his luck too far.


    Fang Ao smiled back, saying nothing more.


    About fifteen minutester, several figures hurried in, all of them were Foundation Building Realm cultivators from the Fang Family.


    "Fang Ao, you said there are peak-grade Purple Lightning Talismans for sale. Where are they?" one of them asked immediately, his face seemingly quite anxious.


    Although the others pretended to be calm, everyone could tell they were impatient to get their hands on the Purple Lightning Talisman as soon as possible.


    Fang Ao looked at Fang Chen and smiled. "Young brother, the spirit stones are ready. Shall we proceed with the transaction?"


    Fang Chen nodded slightly.


    Fang Ao turned to the shopkeeper again. "Shopkeeper Wu, would you mind uspleting the transaction in your pavilion?"


    Shopkeeper Wu smiled. "Please, go ahead."


    His gaze had been assessing Fang Chen all along. When he saw Fang Chen taking out peak-grade Purple Lightning Talisman one after another, the veins on his face couldn''t help but twitch.


    Ten, twenty, fifty, one hundred¡ªone hundred and sixteen.


    Not one less!


    The transaction was quicklypleted. Fang Chen earned himself four thousand and sixty low-grade spirit stones, pushing his wealth over ten thousand spirit stones once again.


    At the very least, he now had the means to buy a high-grade, yellow rank treasure.


    Treasures were the most expensive among cultivation resources.


    Peak-grade, yellow rank pills and spiritual herbs only went for about one or two hundred low-grade spirit stones, while some might go for seven or eight hundred low-grade spirit stones.


    For example, the Hundred-Year Blood Ginseng left behind by Supreme Immortal Pudu wasn''t really worth much.


    <i>When I craft the Illusion Talismans, True Fire Talismans, and Binding Talismans and sell them, I¡¯ll be able to make some more money. If luck is on my side, I might even be able to promote Little Sword and get to the third rank of the sword body, </i>Fang Chen thought to himself.


    There was now a bit of admiration in Fang Ao¡¯s eyes as he looked at Fang Chen, and smiling, he asked, "What should I call you, young brother? You don''t seem to be from the inner city?¡±


    Fang Chen smiled. "I am actually not from the Grand Qian Empire.¡±


    "He¡¯s not from the Grand Qian Empire?"


    Immediately, everyone''s imagination ran wild.


    Just then, Xia Ji walked over curiously, having noticed the crowd that had gathered.


    "Brother Fang, what''s going on?" asked Xia Ji.


    "Isn''t this Master Chanyuan''s disciple, Xia Ji?"


    "Does he know this person?"


    People were getting curious.


    "So you¡¯re also surnamed Fang," Fang Ao suddenly brightened. "We might be distant rtives from five hundred years ago!"


    Xia Ji was taken aback."Huh? Senior Fang Ao?"


    Fang Ao smiled and nodded. "Little Xia, it''s been a while. Is this your friend?"


    "Senior Fang Ao, this... it''s a long story. He might really have been from the same family as yours five hundred years ago," said Xia Ji with a strange expression.


    Everyone froze upon hearing this. That didn''t seem like a joke. Nobody dared to joke about the Fang Family in the capital.


    The shopkeeper Wu''s expression shifted slightly, a hint of doubt shing in his eyes.


    Fang Ao furrowed his brows slightly, and with a faint smile, he said, "You must be joking, Little Xia."


    "I am Fang Chen, a descendant of Fang Tianyuan," said Fang Chen, bowing respectfully.


    "Fang Tingyuan?"


    Fang Ao and the others were first stunned, then a look of disbelief appeared on their faces.


    <i>That generation?!</i>


    There was a Golden Core Realm ancestor in the Fang Family with that name, but that was hundreds of years ago!


    "Wait a minute, you said your ancestor''s name is Fang Tingyuan?! Isn''t he the one who was expelled four hundred years ago...?¡± said a Foundation Building Realm disciple of the Fang Family, freezing in shock abruptly, his mouth hanging.

 Chapter 320: Quietly Acknowledging Ancestry

    <h4>Chapter 320: Quietly Acknowledging Ancestry</h4>


    Since Shopkeeper Wu wasn¡¯t from the Grand Qian Empire, he didn¡¯t know much about its history. That¡¯s why he was very astonished to see how the faces of Fang Ao and other members of the Fang Family had changed after hearing what Fang Chen had said.


    Who exactly was this Fang Tingyuan, and why would the mention of his name cause the Foundation Building disciples of the Fang Family to be this astounded?


    It had been many years since those days, and except for the members of the Fang Family, the Jue Family, the imperial family, and some long-standing cultivation families and sects, hardly anyone remembered the once-legendary figure of the Fang family, Fang Tingyuan.


    Fang Ao¡¯s brows furrowed in puzzlement, and he nced at Fang Chen, then at Xia Ji. "You can¡¯t speak carelessly about this."


    Xia Ji was surprised. "If it weren''t for Fang Da¡¯s lineage, how would¡¯ve we known about something that happened four hundred years ago?"


    Fang Ao and the others became incredibly serious. Their gazes toward Fang Chen wereplex, tinged with a hint of strangeness.


    To think that after four hundred years since what happened in the past, they¡¯d meet a descendant of that ancestor.


    Fang Chen nced at Xia Ji.


    Xia Ji had to have deliberately revealed his identity to Fang Ao. He was probably worried that Fang Chen wouldn¡¯t want to acknowledge his ancestry, which would cause him to miss out on essing the Fang Family¡¯s resources.


    "You are... Fang Chen? Is your ancestor really Fang Tingyuan? Do you have any proof?" asked Fang Ao, his brow scrunched up.


    "I only have this jade token," said Fang Chen, taking out the jade token that Fang Zhentian had given him and handing it to Fang Ao.


    There was a map that showed the route to Grand Qian inside the jade token.


    When Fang Ao and the others saw this simple jade token, they were convinced that Fang Chen was indeed from their family; the jade token bore the unique mark of the Fang family.


    "This is not the ce to talk. Both of you,e with me back to the Fang family," whispered Fang Ao.


    Fang Chen nodded. "I can go, there''s no need for Xia Ji toe."


    Xia Ji''s lips moved slightly, and he nodded. "I still have some things I need to buy here. I''ll stay and continue browsing. Remember toe back and find meter."


    "Alright," said Fang Chen, smiling.


    Before long, Fang Chen left the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion with Fang Ao.


    The shopkeeper watched them leave, and his gaze couldn¡¯t help but fall on Xia Ji, asking, "Young brother, who exactly is Fang Tingyuan?"


    He knew that Xia Ji was Master Chanyuan''s disciple. That scripture was just way too famous; he had even scaled the mountain to read it once.


    "He''s my brother''s ancestor. That ancestor used to be a member of the Fang Family. My brother is here to acknowledge his ancestry," exined Xia Ji with a smile.


    "I see," Shopkeeper Wu nodded slightly, still somewhat doubtful. The reactions of Fang Ao and the others when they heard that name just now were clearly odd.


    "Do you happen to know if your brother¡¯s ancestor knew how to craft Purple Lightning Talismans?¡± asked Shopkeeper casually.


    "I''m not sure about that, Mr. Wu,¡± said Xia Ji. ¡°These are private cultivation matters, and they aren¡¯t easily shared.¡±


    Shopkeeper Wu nodded, feeling very much the same way. Even brothers rted by blood wouldn¡¯t bepletely transparent with one another when it came to their cultivation.


    "Shopkeeper Wu, I would like to buy a sword with twelve Soul Imprints. Do you have one?" asked Xia Ji.


    Shopkeeper Wu''s eyes lit up, and he answered, "We do."


    ***


    The group didn¡¯t talk at all on their way to the family manor, each lost in their own thoughts.


    They walked for a while, and after turning a corner, a magnificent manor came into view.


    The courtyard walls, built out of blue stones, were as high as four zhang, and beyond the walls stretched several li of green willow trees. A gentle breeze rustled the willow branches, as if weing the distant guests.


    Fang Ao suddenly spoke up. "Fang Chen, have you already been to the Profound Void Temple?"


    The others looked at him with strange expressions, clearly aware of the significant connection between that incident and the Profound Void Temple¡¯s decline.


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "Master Chanyuan told me a lot about the events of that year."


    "Sometimes, what the eyes see may not be true, and what the ears hear may not be real." Fang Ao nodded slightly, then fell silent.


    As Fang Chen entered the mansion, he saw many people going about, all members of the family. Some had low cultivation levels, while others were at the seventh or eighth stage of the Qi Refining Realm. Upon seeing Fang Ao and the others, these members, regardless of their status, respectfully saluted them.


    In the Fang Family, Foundation Building Realm cultivators were the backbone, managing various affairs, and they held high status.


    "Who is that young man?"


    "He must be someone extraordinary if he¡¯s walking with Elder Fang Ao. Could he be from the Jue Family?"


    "I''ve never seen him before, he looks unfamiliar."


    Whispers circted among the family members as they cast curious nces at Fang Chen, silently specting about who he might be.


    After a while, Fang Chen was brought to a grand hall. When he arrived, there were already more than a dozen figures standing in the hall, all of them Foundation Building Realm cultivators.


    Everyone¡¯s gaze fell on Fang Chen, scrutinizing him for several moments before turning to Fang Ao and the others, revealing a curious eye.


    "Is he blind?"


    "Was he blind at birth, or did something happen to him that caused him to turn blind?"


    At that moment, a middle-aged man dressed in ck robes, with a dignified and imposing presence like a mountain, slowly walked into the hall.


    "Greetings, Family Head," everyone saluted respectfully.


    Fang Chen''s eyes flickered slightly.<i> Grandpletion of Foundation Building Realm?</i>


    The man''s aura was simr to that of the ancestor of the Heavenly Southern Sect, indicating he was just a step away from reaching the Golden Core Realm.


    The middle-aged man nodded lightly, ncing at Fang Chen for a few moments before suddenly speaking, "You said your ancestor is Fang Tingyuan. Do you possess any inheritance of the Fang Family?"


    Fang Chen whispered, "My ancestor did not pass down any immortal techniques to us. I have chanced upon another inheritance through fate."


    The middle-aged man''s expression changed slightly, and the other Foundation Building Realm cultivators exchanged nces.


    Indeed, the Fang Family had forbidden that ancestor from passing down their immortal techniques to his descendants.


    "Although you have the jade token as evidence, to verify if you truly have the bloodline of the Fang Family, you need to drip a drop of your blood onto this que," said the middle-aged man slowly, raising his hand. Suddenly, a wooden que appeared above his palm. It resembled an ancestral tablet.


    Fang Chen thought for a moment, then slowly raised his hand, letting a drop of blood fall onto the wooden que.


    Everyone watched the que, holding their breath and staring at it unblinkingly. After a few moments, a faint blue light slowly emanated from the wooden que, confirming that Fang Chen was indeed a member of the family!


    The descendant of Fang Tingyuan!


    Many Foundation Building Realm cultivators looked at Fang Chen with new-found curiosity.


    There were very few people in the empire who had lived from that time until now, so that ancestor had long since be a myth, and most people came to learn about his deeds and achievements by stumbling upon them through ancient texts.


    Fang Ao''s expression was solemn. "Should we awaken the ancestor?"


    The middle-aged man pondered for a moment, then shook his head slowly. "The ancestor has been in seclusion for many years and is striving to break through his bottleneck. If he were toe out of seclusion for such a trivial matter, it might dy his cultivation." After a pause, he continued, "Here''s what we''ll do. This young man will acknowledge his ancestry and stay in the third branch to cultivate. Fang Ao, you will look after him. News of this must not be leaked. Just say he¡¯s a descendant of a side branch."


    With that said, he looked at Fang Chen and said in a deep voice, "It doesn¡¯t matter how much you know about Fang Tingyuan, now you¡¯re just an ordinary member of the family. Don''t go around telling people who your ancestor is, or else you won''t be allowed to stay here. Understood?"


    The faces of those present turned strange. Why was the Head treating the descendant of that ancestor like this?


    Fang Chen nodded slowly. "Understood. If there''s nothing else, I''ll go find my friend."


    The middle-aged man was taken aback for a second, but he waved his hand. "Go ahead."


    Fang Chen turned to leave.


    Suddenly, the middle-aged man asked, "Wait, what happened to your eyes?¡±


    Fang Chen''s steps faltered briefly."I got into a fight and was injured."


    "Hmm," the middle-aged man nodded slightly and didn¡¯t say anything else, he only watched Fang Chen walk away.


    Fang Ao seemed to have something he wanted to say, but he was hesitant to speak his mind. Finally, he couldn''t help it, and he whispered to the Head, "Family Head, he is the descendant of that ancestor. How can we treat him as an ordinary disciple?"


    "Do you want to cause trouble? That ancestor might¡¯ve been indeed talented and outstanding, but that doesn¡¯t mean that his descendants will also be the same. The situation back then was moreplicated than you think. The return of a descendant of his cannot be publicized. Remember this, I only want the family to keep its stability, I want none of the chaos this might bring," said the middle-aged man before turning to leave, leaving the others staring at each other in confusion.


    "Forget it,¡± muttered Fang Ao. ¡°Let¡¯s put him in the third branch for now. I¡¯ll take care of him.¡±


    "Why do you get to have the new disciple?¡± someone questioned Fang Ao. ¡°My second branch can take care of him too."


    ncing at him, Fang Ao replied, "Because the Head said so," then walked away.

 Chapter 321: You Shouldnt Have Come Back

    <h4>Chapter 321: You Shouldn''t Have Come Back</h4>


    On the second floor of the teahouse.


    Lin Yu and hispanions had already left the teahouse to return to the outer city. They didn''t have the qualifications to live in the inner city, so all they could do was feel secretly envious of the rich spiritual energy that the residents of the inner city enjoyed.


    Not long after they left, a graceful figure ascended to the second floor and sat across from Jue Wudi. She had snow-white skin and eyes that shimmered like stars.


    "Brother Jue, I heard that Xia Ji has returned. He''s spreading rumors about you. What do you n to do?" The woman spoke softly. "If you don''t object, I can have someone shut him up."


    "Lingxing, Xia Ji is just a mere fourth stage Qi Refining Realm cultivator. You don¡¯t have to worry too much about him. He can spread all the rumors he wants, it isn¡¯t a big deal to me," said Jue Wudi,ughing lightly.


    Fang Lingxing furrowed her brow, then said, "But I absolutely won''t allow anyone to smear your name.¡±


    Jue Wudi smiled ambiguously without agreeing or disagreeing, then changed the subject. "Have you heard? There''s a member of the Fang Family who has returned to acknowledge his ancestry. He''s friends with Xia Ji."


    "Acknowledge his ancestry?" Fang Lingxing''s eyes shed with disdain. "There have been countless people like this over the years. Our Fang Family has many members, so it''s understandable that some may have ended up wandering outside. Even if Xia Ji is acquainted with him, it won''t change anything. If he interferes in this matter, I''ll have him relocated to the outer city."


    She was the Fang Family¡¯s prodigy and the direct heir of the main branch, who had reached the twelfth stage of the Qi Refining Realm at a young age; she indeed had the ability to as she said.


    "Don''t underestimate him. I feel like this person is not simple," said Jue Wudi thoughtfully.


    Fang Lingxing was slightly startled. "He¡¯s not simple?"


    If it were anyone else, Fang Lingxing wouldn''t have taken it to heart, but it was Jue Wudi saying this, so she couldn''t help but think harder about the implications behind his words.


    Jue Wudi smiled. "Don¡¯t worry too much about it, just be a bit more cautious. By the way, what arrangements does the Fang Family have for you when ites to this trade conference?"


    Fang Lingxing smiled back and said, ¡°A talisman master from Azure Cloud Empire will be present this time. The family intends for me to apprentice under him. If this happens, I will go to Azure Cloud for cultivation in the short term.¡±


    Jue Wudi nodded lightly. "That''s a good thing. If you go to the Azure Cloud Empire, there will be no one topete with you for the position of Fang Family head in the future. You¡¯re the only in your generation who has the potential and qualifications to take this position.¡±


    Fang Lingxian¡¯s cheeks suddenly turned rosy, and she said, "I don''t really care about being the head of the Fang Family. I just hope to spend more time drinking tea and watching the sunrise over the sea of clouds with you."


    "If you be the head of the Fang Family and I be the head of the Jue Family, wouldn''t we have plenty of opportunities to do so?"


    Smiling, Jue Wudi got up from his seat and stood in front of Fang Lingxing. Gently lifting her chin with two of his fingers, he stared fixated into her eyes with affection.


    At this moment, silence spoke louder than words.


    After a few moments, Jue Wudi took a step back, and said, "I''ll get back to my cultivation now. This trade conference is a rare event that happens only once every hundreds of years. There may be fiercepetition between the disciples of the various sects, and as a disciple of the Jue family, I cannot afford to be weaker than others." After which, he left gracefully, seeming as intangible as the clouds in the sky.


    Fang Lingxing watched his departing figure in intoxication.


    After a few moments, she regained herposure, turning cold again. Eyes narrowing, she muttered, "Xia Ji...."


    ***


    At the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion, Xia Ji had picked out a flying sword that suited Wu Ruochou''s preferences. It had twelve Soul Imprints. It was just perfect for her.


    <i>My senior sister''s treasure was shattered when shest shed with Fang Lingxing. She''ll definitely be very happy when she sees this flying sword,</i> thought Xia Ji, a hint of a smile crossing his face.


    The attendant who was by his side noticed his smile, and heplimented, "You have a keen eye, Young Master Xia. This sword is a masterpiece from the Hidden Sword Pavilion in the Azure Cloud Empire, a fourth-tier empire. It¡¯s an excellent treasure amongst items of the same grade. We acquired twenty of them at the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion, sold neen, and now only this one remains."


    "How many spirit stones?" asked Xia Ji with a smile.


    "It''s only two hundred low-grade spirit stones," replied the shop clerk promptly.


    "Two hundred?" Xia Ji nodded silently. Indeed, it was a bit more expensive than ordinary artifacts with twelve Soul Imprints, but he could tell that its quality and craftsmanship were really superior.


    "I''ll take this flying sword," said Xia Ji.


    Hardly had Xia Ji said this when several young men and women approached him. One hefty young man reached out for the flying sword and inspected it fondly, his eyes admiring.


    ¡°¡®Firste, first serve.¡¯ I saw this flying sword first. Sir, you''d better look at other artifacts,¡± said Xia Ji with a faint smile.


    "Are you trying topete with us for this flying sword? I know you, Xia Ji, the closed-door disciple of Master Chan Yuan from the Profound Void Temple, right? I might have given your master some face in the past, but you''ve offended Jue Wudi now. What, do you really want to offend several other disciples of the Jue Family?" joked the young man disdainfully, seemingly not taking Xia Ji seriously at all.


    The other Jue Family disciples behind him smirked in mockery, waiting to see what Xia Ji would do.


    "So you''re from the Jue family. No wonder youck manners," said Xia Ji, shaking his head. Then, he took out two hundred low-grade spirit stones and handed them to the attendant. "I''ll take the flying sword."


    The expressions of the people around him changed slightly. Was this guy really going to offend them?


    The young man looked at the attendant and said lightly, "You dare take his spirit stones?"


    The attendant chuckled lightly, epted Xia Ji''s two hundred low-grade spirit stones, retrieved the flying sword from the young man''s hand, and respectfully handed it to Xia Ji. "Young Master Xia, the transaction isplete. Please take care on your way out."


    The young man was momentarily stunned, his brows furrowing. How dare this mere attendant from the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion offend them?


    "Did you not hear me? Are you deaf, or was my voice too low?" The young man looked at the attendant and said coldly, "This flying sword was mine. What right do you have to sell it to someone else? Is this how the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion treats its customers?"


    "Sir, Young Master Xia was the first to spot this flying sword and choose it. I am just a humble servant and only know how to follow the rules and regtions of the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion. Please forgive me," replied the attendant with a bow.


    "Did you hear that?¡± said Xia Ji, smiling ambiguously. ¡°This is the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion, not your Jue Family. Even if Jue Wudi were here, he wouldn''t have much weight to carry around here.¡±


    The expressions of the few people changed rapidly, and in the end, they could only leave with faces ashen with anger, ring hatefully at the two before departing.


    "Lord Xia, you shouldn''t havee back," said the attendant after they had left.


    "Nothing to worry about. I know what I''m doing." Xia Ji smiled. "What about you? Has Lin Yu been causing you troubletely?"


    "Since Young Master Xia arranged for me to work at the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion, he hasn''t dared to bother me anymore," replied the attendant gratefully.


    "It wasn¡¯t me who did it, it was my master. I don''t have that kind of influence," said Xia Ji with a wry smile.


    At that moment, Fang Chen stepped into the pavilion. He had seen the leaving youngsters outside. "Any trouble? Who were they?"


    "They''re from the Jue Family. But there''s no problem, I''ve already sent them away," said Xia Ji with a grin, then showed Fang Chen the new sword. "What do you think of this flying sword?"


    "It''s of good quality." Fang Chen nodded slightly. Having seen many treasures before, he could tell that this flying sword was indeed excellent.


    Suddenly, Fang Chen heard Little Sword¡¯s voice ringing in his mind.<i> ¡®I''m so hungry, Little Chen.¡¯</i>


    <i>¡®Don''t worry, I''ll let you feast in a bit,¡¯ </i>reassured Fang Chen.

 Chapter 322: Self Recommendation

    <h4>Chapter 322: Self Rmendation</h4>


    "This flying sword has twelve Soul Imprints. This isn¡¯t something you need for now, right?¡± Fang Chen smiled. ¡°Is it for Senior Sister Wu?"


    Xia Ji nodded softly. "When I got into a conflict with Jue Wudist time, Fang Lingxing from the Fang Family wanted to teach me a lesson, but Senior Sister Wu stepped up for me and fought her. In the end, Senior Sister Wu¡¯s treasure was shattered, and she was injured."


    Fang Chen nodded lightly, putting away his smile. "Then this is the right thing to do for her."


    "I guess I''m using someone else''s money to make a donation." Xia Ji grinned, then bid farewell to the attendant before heading out of Heavenly Treasure Pavilion with Fang Chen.


    Wu Jiuquan had been closely watching Fang Chen since he came into the Heavenly Treasure Pavillion again, and as soon as he saw him about to leave, he quickly approached.


    ¡°Deacon Wu, is there anything you need?¡±


    "Young Master Fang, I was in the wrong just now. Can you give me another chance?" said Wu Jiuquan awkwardly.


    Fang Chen smiled. "There''s no need for any chances. We have nothing to do with each other."


    Wu Jiuquan forced a smile. "Well... A senior from my n said that if you ever have Purple Lightning Talismans you want to sell in the future, could you consider selling them to our Heavenly Treasure Pavilion?"


    "That depends on whether the price your pavilion is willing to offer is high enough or not.¡± Fang Chen left those words casually behind as he walked away with Xia Ji, side by side.


    Wu Jiuquan''s smile fizzled out, and his eyes turned sinister.


    He immediately ran to report back to Shopkeeper Wu.


    "It seems that he really does have the inheritance of the Purple Lightning Talismans. Even if it¡¯s not him that has it, someone behind must have it," mused Shopkeeper Wu.


    Wu Jiuquan''s eyes shed with a hint of ruthlessness. "Uncle, should I find an opportunity to...."


    Shopkeeper Wu nced at him and calmly said, "We are businessmen, not bandits. When you see this young man from now on, be polite to him for my sake."


    "But we at the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion have Talisman Masters too..." muttered Wu Jiuquan.


    "What are you implying?" asked Shopkeeper Wu.


    Wu Jiuquan quickly said, "I mean, maybe we should find a way to acquire the Purple Lightning Talisman inheritance from him? In this world, as long as the price is right, everything is negotiable."


    Shopkeeper Wu sighed softly. "Why are you still so naive at your age? Now that he has joined the Fang Family, how will you coerce him into selling you the inheritance for the Purple Lightning Talisman inheritance?" Pausing for a moment, he continued, "Stop having such crooked ideas. Although the Purple Lightning Talisman inheritance is rare, it doesn''t mean much to our Heavenly Treasure Pavilion. Focus your energy on the uing trade conference. Encourage all parties to send goods as soon as possible. You won¡¯t becking in stuff to sell when the timees."


    "Yes..." answered Wu Jiuquan.


    ***


    "What¡¯s this ce?" asked Fang Chen in confusion as Xia Ji led him into a remote manor.


    "This is Lord Tiger''s Manor," said Xia Ji, grinning. "He is a Foundation Building Realm cultivator who has some weight in the empire. He¡¯s especially skilled in finding people, but his services aren¡¯t cheap."


    "Are you nning on asking him to help you find your Senior Brother Liu?" mused Fang Chen.


    "That¡¯s right. Regardless of whether Senior Brother Liu is alive or dead, I need to have closure." Xia Ji nodded. "You can leave me here, and I''ll go by myself. After I''m done, I''ll return to Profound Void Temple, and we''ll meet again in a few days."


    "Alright, if there''s any trouble, remember to let me know," said Fang Chen, nodding and turning to leave.


    As he walked away, Xia Ji entered the mansion. At the same time, Fang Chen''s divine soul had already appeared above the mansion.


    Apanied by a guide, Xia Ji arrived at a courtyard where an old man was leisurely drinking tea.


    "Xia Ji, you''re here again? I told you, this matter isn¡¯t easy to handle. You need to have enough spirit stones," said the old man without lifting his eyelids. "If it weren''t for Master Chanyuan, I wouldn''t even want anything to do with this."


    "Lord Tiger, what¡¯s our chances?" asked Xia Ji in a deep voice.


    "Only thirty percent. This is the capital of Grand Qian, and the other party is a member of the Fang Family with high cultivation. We have only a thirty percent chance at sess," said the old man calmly. "Even if we fail, your money won¡¯t be refunded.¡±


    "Here are a thousand low-grade spirit stones.¡± Xia Ji ced the spirit stones in front of the old man. ¡°Please count them, Lord Tiger."


    The old man''s eyelids opened, and his eyes lit up as he stared at the piles of spirit stones in front of him. He looked at Xia Ji. "Kid, where did you get these?"


    "Lord Tiger, you don''t need to worry about that. Just help me kill Fang Lingxing," said Xia Ji calmly.


    In the void, Fang Chen''s eyes shed with surprise. Xia Ji was hiring an assassin? Was he doing this for Wu Ruochou...?


    Something wasn''t right.


    Furrowing his brows, Fang Chen pondered. Although Fang Lingxing injured Wu Ruochou, it wasn''t anything too serious. Given Xia Ji''s temperament, he wouldn''t spend such arge sum just to have someone in the Fang Family killed. After all, this would bring Xia Ji a great risk; if this was exposed, the consequences would be unimaginable.


    The old man¡¯s expression suddenly turned serious. "Kid, why do you have so many low-grade spirit stones? Why not keep them for yourself? If I hire someone to act, there will be no room for us to back out any longer.¡±


    "For no particr reason. If anything, I¡¯m just seeking justice for Senior Brother Liu," said Xia Ji calmly.


    Hearing that, Fang Chen suddenly understood. Perhaps Senior Brother Liu was already dead, and Xia Ji knew about it but pretended not to, all for the sake of avenging him.


    Fang Chen chuckled and shook his head.<i> He¡¯s not telling me because he¡¯s afraid that I''ll have a hard time in the Fang Family. He¡¯s after all targeting a member of the Fang Family. You''re quite naive, Xia Ji.</i>


    "If I had known you¡¯d be so adamant, I wouldn¡¯t have told you it was Fang Lingxing you¡¯re after." The old man sighed lightly and then looked at Xia Ji, his eyes flickering. "Tell me, if I keep you here, not only will I have the spirit stones, but I also won''t have to offend the Fang Family. Would that be killing two birds with one stone?"


    "Lord Tiger, you''re not that kind of person.¡± Xia Ji smiled. ¡°Besides, I didn¡¯te here alone, I havepanions with me. If I don''t make it out of here, mypanions will naturally know."


    The old man remained silent for a moment, then suddenlyughed heartily. "I was just joking with you. Don''t mind me. I''ll take this deal. But as I¡¯ve told you, there''s only a thirty percent chance of sess. If the operation fails, I won''t refund you a single low-grade spirit stone."


    "If it really fails, I''ll ept my fate.¡± Xia Ji''s lips curled further upward. ¡°I just hope you won''t pull any funny business, or else it''ll be a case of ¡®the fish dying and the breaking.¡¯"


    "Are you threatening me?" The old man''s gaze shifted slightly, a terrifying aura emanating from him, enveloping Xia Ji.


    Xia Ji said nothing as he gazed silently at the old man.


    After a moment, the old man waved his hand. "Go on, since we¡¯ve struck a deal, I won''t cheat you. Just sit back and watch the show."


    "Very well, I''ll take my leave then," said Xia Ji, bowing slightly.


    Once outside the mansion, he headed straight out of the inner city toward Profound Void Mountain


    As for Fang Chen, his divine soul returned to his body, and after a moment''s thought, he headed toward the old man¡¯s manor.


    Fang Chen knocked, and after a moment, a man opened the door.


    When he saw Fang Chen, he furrowed his brow. "Who are you?" he asked, scrutinizing Fang Chen. "You''re in the wrong ce."


    Fang Chen smiled. "I''m here to see Lord Tiger. I¡¯m sure I¡¯m in the right ce."


    The man¡¯s frown deepened. "Who rmended you?"


    Fang Chen thought for a moment, then replied,"I rmended myself.¡±

 Chapter 323: Its Fine

    <h4>Chapter 323: It''s Fine</h4>


    The man had been about to m the door shut in Fan Chen¡¯s face after he heard what he said when he discovered that a flying sword was pressed against his forehead, its sharp tip threatening.


    Fang Chen smiled. "Lead the way."


    "Please follow me,"piled the man obediently.


    In the courtyard, Lord Tiger fondled the spiritual stones in his hand, a satisfied smile on his face. A thousand low-grade spiritual stones was a considerable amount for just about anyone, it was even enough to tempt a Golden Core Realm cultivator.


    "Too bad, Xia Ji has Master Chanyuan backing him up, so no tricking him. I could¡¯ve earned myself a thousand spirit stones without doing anything," muttered Lord Tiger, shaking his head from side to side with a sigh.


    Suddenly, his gaze swept toward the entrance of the courtyard, furrowing his brow. "Another visitor today?"


    "We have an unexpected guest, Lord Tiger," said the servant stiffly, an awkward smile on his face.


    <i>An unexpected guest?</i>


    Lord Tiger frowned slightly. Maintaining hisposure, he put the spirit stones away and calmly turned his attention to Fang Chen, who was behind the servant.


    "Pleasee in and talk, there''s no need for you to threaten a mere servant."


    Fang Chen nodded softly "You''re right.¡±


    To Lord Tiger¡¯s astonishment, he found the flying sword, which had had its tip resting against his servant¡¯s forehead just a moment ago, suddenly pressing against his own skull. Though the sword seemed ordinary, the sword intent emanating from it made him stiffen, as if he was enveloped in bone-chilling coldness.


    Cold sweat began to form on Lord Tiger¡¯s forehead.


    Lord Tiger forced a strained smile. "Sir, I don''t know you, and we have no grievances. What''s the meaning of this?"


    He had a feeling that this man before him could kill him effortlessly.


    "This is the capital of Grand Qian. If there''s any bloodshed here, no matter who you are, you won''t be able to escape thew," interjected the servant hurriedly.


    Fang Chen chuckled. "You run a business centered around hiring assassins and you''re telling me this?"


    Lord Tiger''s expression changed slightly. He nced at the servant. "You can leave. This doesn''t concern you."


    The servant hesitated. "Lord Tiger...."


    Lord Tiger''s eyes turned angry. "I said leave!¡±


    The servant immediately turned and ran, not daring to wait around for an extra second. He knew what would happen if Lord Tiger got angry.


    "Sir, now it''s just the two of us. We can speak frankly," Lord Tiger said to Fang Chen, bowing respectfully. "I don''t know who told you about me, but I am assuming you¡¯re here to do business with me?"


    "I am indeed here on the ount of business, but I''m not sure if you¡¯re reliable," replied Fang Chen as he sat down opposite to Tiger Lord, his eyes staring at him closely.


    Lord Tiger forced a weak smile. "If you¡¯re here for business, could you put down your sword first?"


    Fang Chen shook his head with a smile. "No need, this is fine."


    Lord Tiger was nonplussed. But for the sake of his life, he needed to figure out why Fang Chen was here. Was he an enemy, or a potential client?


    "Feel free to tell me what kind of business you wish to conduct. I handle various businesses, including finding people, finding objects, and mediating disputes," listed Lord Tiger.


    "I want you to kill someone," said Fang Chen with a smile.


    "Kill someone?" Lord Tiger looked hesitant. "This is the capital. We absolutely cannot take lives here. I don''t know who told you that you can hire assassins here. He must have misled you, perhaps wanting to use you to kill me."


    "If you aren¡¯t a little more honest with me, then this conversation between us will end with your demise," said Fang Chen calmly.


    Lord Tiger''s expression changed several times.


    After a few breaths, he said slowly, "Who do you want to kill? What is their cultivation level?"


    "Jue Wudi, in the early Foundation Building Realm," replied Fang Chen.


    Lord Tiger''s expression shifted slightly. "That arrogant one from the Jue Family?!"


    What a strange day this was! One client wanted him to kill the pride of the Fang Family, while another wanted him to kill the pride of the Jue Family!


    "This deal is out of my league. If it were someone in the Qi Refining Realm, perhaps I could¡¯ve helped you deal with him, but Jue Wudi is not only in the Foundation Building Realm, he is also a direct descendant highly valued by the Jue Family''s ancestors..." said Lord Tiger with a bitter smile.


    "In that case, let''s change the target. How about killing someone at the twelfth stage of the Qi Refining Realm? Can you handle that?" said Fang Chen casually.


    Lord Tiger breathed a sigh of relief. "Killing someone at the twelfth stage of Qi Refining Realm is manageable. Who is the target?"


    "You don''t need to know the target''s identity. Just tell me if you can take on this job. After taking it, how will you proceed? Will it expose my involvement? Can you ensure the operation goes smoothly?" Fang Chen stared at Lord Tiger. "Please answer these questions."


    Lord Tiger was slightly taken aback. "If you don''t tell me the target''s identity, I can''t give you a pri¡ª"


    "Let¡¯s just consider this a deal worth one thousand spirit stones," interrupted Fang Chen with a smile.


    Lord Tiger waspletely stunned, and suspicion arose in his eyes. Xia Ji had just given him one thousand spiritual stones. Now someone else offered him the exact same amount. Was these two things somehow rted?


    "I am not a very patient man, answer quickly," said Fang Chen calmly.


    Gritting his teeth, Lord Tiger mouthed, "I don¡¯t usually inform my clients of the details, but since I have good rapport with you, I¡¯ll be frank with you: If the target you want to kill has no significant background, I''ll handle it personally. If there areplications, I''ll hire someone else to do it. The specific details will have to be arranged at the time."


    "Who will you hire?" asked Fang Chen.


    Lord Tiger fell silent.


    "Don''t want to say it? It¡¯s fine if you don¡¯t wish to..." Fang Chen chuckled softly, and the tip of the small sword pressed a little harder against Lord Tiger''s forehead, causing a drop of blood to slowly trickle down his skin.


    Lord Tiger''s very soul trembled with fear, and he hastily said, "Wait, wait! The person I¡¯ll hire won''t be from Grand Qian. This is the only way to avoid being exposed. As for who it will be, there are too many options to choose from."


    "What do you mean?"


    "Do you know about the Heavenly Doom Hall?" asked Lord Tiger, feeling very pressed.


    Fang Chen nodded. "Go on."


    Lord Tiger continued, "I¡¯ve spent some time there when I was young. The cultivators there take money from people to alleviate their troubles. I still know a few of them who can help.¡± Pausing for a moment, he added, "No one in the Grand Qian Empire knows about this. Even the Golden Core Realm ancestors of various families only know that I cultivated in a fourth-tier empire for a while."


    "They won''t dare cause trouble for the Heavenly Doom Hall even if something goes wrong, so we''ll be safe. Nothing will be linked back to us," said Lord Tiger, after which he suddenly asked, "Is it that you know Xia Ji? Are you afraid he''ll make a mess by trying to kill Fang Lingxing?"


    Fang Chen smiled. "Tell me about Fang Lingxing, what has she done?"


    Lord Tiger realized that his counterpart was not naive; they had been in this business in Grand Qian for many years without any incidents. He breathed a sigh of relief and whispered, "Fang Lingxing hired several cultivators from the outer city to ambush Master Chanyuan¡¯s second disciple in the Nocturnal Valley. That¡¯s Xia Ji¡¯s senior brother."


    "Are you sure it was Fang Lingxing who hired them?" Fang Chen chuckled. "I don''t want Xia Ji to be used as a pawn."


    Lord Tiger hurriedly confirmed, "Absolutely. One of the cultivators from the outer city, who once received my favor, informed me about it after the incident. He knew he couldn''t stay in Grand Qian for long after that, so he left early to avoid being silenced."

 Chapter 324: Ranks

    <h4>Chapter 324: Ranks</h4>


    After contemting for a moment, Fang Chen nodded slowly, and then with a single thought, he retracted Little Sword.


    "I don¡¯t want Xia Ji to know anything about this. Otherwise, I wille find you again." Fang Chen left these words behind as he turned to leave.


    It took Lord Tiger several moments before it sank in that it was all over, and he slumped into his chair, his forehead, cheeks, neck, and back all drenched in cold sweat.


    "Xia Ji has such a powerful backer. Why does he still want toe to me for help? He''s asking for trouble!" Lord Tiger muttered through gritted teeth.


    The servant tip-toed back into the courtyard. "Lord Tiger, a-are you alright?"


    "Did he leave?" asked Lord Tiger coldly.


    The servant nodded quickly. "Yes, he left."


    Lord Tiger sneered. "If you weren''t my grandson, I would have killed you for bringing him to me without a word."


    His grandson immediately hung his head, like a child who had been scolded, too afraid to speak.


    "Interesting. When did such a ruthless persone to the Grand Qian Empire? I knew nothing about it." Lord Tiger''s eyes grew dark. "Order them to find out who this person is, where he¡¯s from. Make sure they act very carefully, so as not to be discovered."


    The servant nodded repeatedly. "Lord Tiger, please rest assured. Cultivators will overlook these ordinary mortals since they pose no threat in their eyes."


    After the servant left, Lord Tiger muttered softly to himself, "This matter with Fang Lingxing must be handled delicately."


    He took out a Transmission Talisman and burned it.


    ***


    Not long after leaving Lord Tiger''s manor, several young men in green shirts found Fang Chen.


    "The young master is looking for you," they said respectfully. Their joints were strangely muchrger than ordinary people''s and they had an aura not weaker than that of the Fatal Qi Stage, the first level of the Heaven Profound Stage.


    They should be martial artists in the Profound Qi Stage, the second level of the Heaven Profound Stage. Martial artists in that level areparable to cultivators in the Qi Refining Realm, butpared to cultivators, the status of martial artists was only slightly higher than that of mortals.


    "Who is your master?" asked Fang Chen casually.


    "He is Elder Fang Ao from the third branch of the Fang Family," answered one of the young men in green shirts respectfully.


    Fang Chen nodded lightly and followed them into the family mansion. They took many turns until they finally arrived at a courtyard.


    One of the young men hurried into the courtyard, and soon after, Fang Ao walked out of the courtyard,ughing heartily.


    Beside him, there was a beautiful middle-aged woman and a young girl who had a cold expression.


    "Fang Chen, let me introduce you. This is my wife, and my daughter, Fang Yun," Fang Ao introduced with a smile.


    The middle-aged woman nodded lightly. She was deadpanned, but there was a hint of impatience in her eyes.


    Fang Yun was much more blunt than her mother. She frowned at Fang Ao, and said, "Dad, isn''t he just a distant rtive who''se back to the family? Why make such a big deal out of it?"


    Fang Ao looked a bit embarrassed by his daughter¡¯s direct words, but he couldn¡¯t tell them about Fang Chen¡¯s background. He could only give Fang Chen a slightly apologetic look.


    "Dad, big brother is gambling on stones at the Immortal Origin District. I''m going to check it out," Fang Yun said before running off in a hurry.


    Fang Ao sighed. "Oh, I''ve spoiled my daughter,¡± he said to Fang Chen. ¡°It''s mainly because my wife and I didn''t have a child until we were a hundred years old. We let her have her way in everything."


    The middle-aged woman frowned slightly. "Yun''er is our daughter, of course she should be spoiled. What are you saying?"


    Fang Ao''s expression stiffened, feeling a bit embarrassed.


    Fang Chen didn''t care about their attitude toward him. He simply asked, "Elder Fang, where will I be staying?"


    "I''ll take you to your residence,¡± Fang Ao said to Fang Chen, then told his wife, ¡°You can attend to your own affairs."


    He then took Fang Chen and left.


    Fang Ao¡¯s wife snorted coldly and turned to leave in another direction.


    "Both me and my wife have reached a bottleneck in our cultivation in recent years, so we¡¯ve decided to have a child to carry on the family bloodline,¡± said Fang Ao with a bitter smile as they walked. ¡°But we''ve spoiled Yun''er too much.¡±


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "I can see that."


    Even when Fang Ao went to the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion, he didn''t forget to buy Purple Lightning Talismans for Fang Yun to protect herself with, showing that he had already spoiled her to the extreme.


    However, what was even more important was that Fang Chen gleaned more into the mindset of cultivators: only when their cultivation reached a bottleneck would they begin to think about passing on their lineage.


    But it made sense, If their cultivation was smooth sailing, where would they have the time to think about having children? They would naturally go further on the path of cultivation.


    Before long, the two stopped in front of a courtyard. The scenery here was beautiful, and the spiritual energy was rtively dense.


    "There''s a quiet room inside for cultivation, as well as a small spiritual field and a spiritual spring for your daily needs," introduced Fang Ao with a smile. ¡°Although it may look small, it''s actually highly sought after within our third branch."


    Pausing for a moment, Fang Ao took out a jade token and tossed it to Fang Chen. "This is your identity token. With this token, you can move freely within the inner and outer city. If anyone stops you, just show them this."


    "Thank you, Elder Fang Ao," said Fang Chen casually, epting the jade token.


    "You''ve only just arrived at the family, so there are many things you''re not ustomed to yet. Just stay here for a while, and you''ll settle in quickly. If you have any questions, you can ask them." Fang Ao pointed to the several men beside him. "They are the martial servants nurtured by our family. Although they are not cultivators, they know a lot," said Fang Ao. "They will be at your assistance from now on."


    "Do all the family members experience this sort of treatment?" asked Fang Chen curiously.


    "You''re somewhat special, so this is the treatment you¡¯ll be receiving. Nurturing martial artists to the Heaven Profound Stage is both easy and difficult. Other than a few core disciples, most people have three to five Heaven Profound Stage martial artists at their beck and call," exined Fang Ao with a smile. "Don''t underestimate the Heaven Profound martial artists. They are trained by our family and know a lot about how to deal with cultivators. Taking them with you when you go out might just save your life in critical situations."


    The several men in green shirts behind him remained silent, their expressions respectful. However, for them to be praised by Fang Ao, a Foundation Building Realm cultivator, meant that they were different from the Heaven Profound Stage martial artists of the seventh-tiered empires. They had to have much more ways to deal with cultivators than other martial artists.


    "By the way, the Fang Family disciples are also divided into three ranks, and it''s up to each individual to strive for them. As you''ve just returned, you''re considered a rank three disciple. And as a rank three disciple, you can head over to the Spirit Medicine Hall each month to receive a Qi Condensing Pill. Once you''re promoted to the second rank, you can receive two Qi Condensing Pills per month, along with five low-grade spirit stones," exined Fang Ao.


    <i>Qi Condensing Pill? </i>


    Fang Chen nodded slightly. These were low-grade, yellow-rank pills, each worth about five low-grade spirit stones. It was quite a good treatment for even the lowest-ranked Fang Family disciples. Compared to that, many wandering cultivators might not be able to get their hands on one or two such pills even after a year of effort.


    Fang Ao fixed his gaze on Fang Chen. "However... I don¡¯t think you value Qi Condensing Pills much anymore. I''m curious, where did those Purple Lightning Talismanse from?"


    Fang Chen smiled faintly. "Some were passed down to me by my sect, and some I made myself."


    Fang Ao was surprised. "You can make talismans?"


    The martial artists couldn¡¯t keep their straight faces anymore, and they turned astonished. There was even respect now in their eyes as they looked at Fang Chen.


    No matter where they went, anyone who was proficient in talisman crafting would hold a lofty status!

 Chapter 325: Refining the Binding Talisman

    <h4>Chapter 325: Refining the Binding Talisman</h4>


    Grinning, Fang CHen preached, ¡°The Dao of Talismans is easy as long as you practice diligently.¡±


    ¡°Easy, huh....¡± Fang Aoughed bitterly on the inside. When he was younger, he had the exact same thought. However, an ordinary Divine Movement Talisman had cost him a month¡¯s time of effort, and so he had given up on that path.


    If a Divine Movement Talisman had been that challenging to make, then the Purple Lightning Talisman would be even more so...


    ¡°The Purple Lightning Talisman... was it passed down to your family by Ancestor Tingyuan?¡± asked Fang Ao tentatively.


    If the inheritance of the Purple Lightning Talisman had been passed down to Fang Chen by Fang Tingyuan, then it had to have originated from that first-tier empire¡¯s dao sect. Problem would be, Fang Chen wasn¡¯t a disciple of that sect, so if Fang Tingyuan had passed down the dao sect''s techniques without their consent, it could bring the Fang Family a whole lot of trouble that they couldn¡¯t handle.


    With that in mind, Fang Ao''s expression became even more solemn.


    ¡°Ancestor Tingyuan did not pass down to us anything that¡¯s rted to cultivation,¡± Fang Chen shook his head slightly and said, ¡°The Purple Lightning Talisman was taught to me by an elder from my sect.¡±


    Fang Ao heaved a sigh of relief, but he couldn¡¯t help but grow wary at the mention of a sect that possessed the inheritance of the Purple Lightning Talisman. After all, even the Fang Family didn''t know how to craft such a talisman.


    ¡°What''s the name of your sect? Perhaps I know something about it.¡±


    ¡°I''m just here to practice. ording to the rules of my sect, I cannot casually reveal its name. Please don''t take offense, Elder Fang Ao," replied Fang Chen with a smile


    .


    ¡°I see...¡± Fang Ao nodded slightly and said, ¡°Nevermind then. I¡¯ll leave you to rest while I leave to attend to some matters.¡± After which, he turned and left, exiting the courtyard.


    Not longter, a Foundation Building Realm cultivator met up with Fang Ao and asked, ¡°How is it? Is his Purple Lightning Talisman rted to Ancestor Tingyuan?¡±


    ¡°He said it was taught to him by his sect. If what he said is true, then we cannot underestimate his sect. Let''s keep this under wraps lest the news spreads too quickly," muttered Fang Ao.


    The Foundation Building Realm cultivator nodded lightly with a sigh. ¡°He¡¯s Ancestor Tingyuan¡¯s descendant, no doubt about it. He must have excellent talent for him to be taught the Purple Lightning Talisman. He might have an aura concealing treasure on him, too. I can¡¯t discern his cultivation level.¡±


    Fang Ao nodded in agreement. ¡°Yes, even I could not tell what stage of the Qi Refining Realm he is in.¡±


    ¡°It''s not important though. What matters is the attitude of the Head toward him. He doesn¡¯t seem that he¡¯s nning on nurturing him, and he¡¯d rather keep him hidden.¡±


    ¡°It''s hard to say. Let''s treat him as an ordinary disciple of the family for now. If the Head has any further arrangements, we''ll naturally be informed.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    After their conversation, both of them went their separate ways.


    Simultaneously, at that very moment, Fang Chen''s divine soul returned to his body.


    It had been clear from their conversation that they weren¡¯t suspicious of Fang Chen¡¯s cultivation level, and only thought of him as an ordinary Qi Refining Realm cultivator. In the empire, only Xia Ji, Master Chanyuan and Wu Ruochou knew about Fang Chen¡¯s cultivation level, which was undoubtedly a good thing, as it allowed him to secretly make talismans and umte the spirit stones needed to purchase spiritual treasures at the trade conference. Fang Chen was hoping that Little Sword would be able to reach the third rank of the sword body with the help of these spiritual treasures.


    The several young men that were at Fang Chen¡¯s service were naturally close, but seeing that he was seemingly deep in thought, they remained quiet.


    Fang Chen nced at them and casually asked, ¡°Do all of you work for Elder Fang Ao?¡±


    ¡°We work for the third branch. Elder Fang Ao asionally assigns us some misceneous tasks,¡± answered one of the young men in a low voice. He seemed to be the youngest among the group, but his martial cultivation seemed to be the highest of them all.


    ¡°What''s your name and cultivation level?¡± asked Fang Chen with a smile.


    ¡°I am Li Cang. I recently advanced to the third level of the Heaven Profound Stage, the Royal Qi Stage,¡± replied Li Cang hurriedly.


    Fang Chen nodded with a smile before turning to enter his courtyard. ¡°I only need one person to stay with me. You may stay. The rest of you can go about your business.¡±


    The other young men instantly cast Li Cang envious looks.


    "Brother Li Cang, you''re in luck this time. This person doesn''t seem simple. If you can cultivate alongside him, you might be able to advance to the Imperial Qi realm, bing a martial emperor,¡± one of them said.


    Although martial artists were considered inferior to cultivators, a martial emperor would be treated with great respect by ordinary cultivators and would hold important positions in the Fang Family. The Fang Family had around twenty to thirty martial emperors, who were all highly valued by the elders, and they were assigned important tasks to undertake.


    Li Cang was secretly excited, but he humbly replied, ¡°Don''t tter me, brothers. I was just lucky.¡±


    After exchanging pleasantries, Li Cang bid farewell to his colleagues and immediately entered the courtyard after Fang Chen to sweep and water the nts.


    In the quiet room, Fang Chen took out the talisman materials. He was nning on crafting the Binding Talisman now. ording to the manual he had found stashed in Demon King Tianfeng¡¯s cave dwelling, the Binding Talisman was the most difficult out of the three talismans. Fortunately, he had made the Illusion Talisman before, so he was mentally prepared for the high difficulty of the mid-grade, yellow-rank talisman.


    Several dayster, as the final strokended, the spiritual energy in the surroundings continuously poured into the talisman. Fang Chen was long prepared as he used his spiritual energy to envelop the quiet room, preventing the external world from sensing this abnormality. The abnormalitysted for a short duration before the aura on the talisman gradually stabilized. Fang Chen gently picked it up and examined it closely.


    It was his first time making a Binding Talisman, so he couldn''t determine its quality. However, at the very least, he could use this talisman to deal with those early-stage Foundation Building Realm cultivators. If its quality was slightly higher, it could also be effective against mid-stage Foundation Building Realm cultivators.


    ¡°I have depleted my spiritual energy thirty-one times, failed four times, and lost some spiritual materials in thest five days,¡± murmured Fang Chen. Losing spiritual materials wasn¡¯t that big of a deal. On the other hand, to an ordinary person, after depleting their spiritual energy, they¡¯d need quite a bit of time to recover their reserves. However, Fang Chen was able to skip this step altogether. Since his spiritual energy reserves would recover after they were exhausted, he had a significant advantage when crafting talismans. It even allowed him to gain a lot of hands-on experience, much more than what other cultivators would be able to gain in months or years.


    ¡°Looking back on these past few days, I¡¯m still not skilled enough where I could craft Binding Talismans with the same level of familiarity I have when I craft Purple Lightning Talisman. I need to practice more,¡± he muttered to himself. He put away the Binding Talisman and took out a nk yellow talisman paper to work on it.


    Time passed quickly, and half a month went by. During this time, Fang Chen asionally left in his divine soul to check on Xia Ji and Lord Tiger.


    As for the Binding Talisman, Fang Chen became increasingly skilled in crafting it. From initially failing two or three times to failing just one time now, he had gradually reached a point where failure was almost nonexistent. However, crafting one Binding Talisman required his undivided attention for three days and three nights without any distractions. It was different from when he was making the Purple Lightning Talisman, where he could simultaneously practice the Five Element Controlling Technique.


    During these days, Fang Chen managed to create four Binding Talismans in total. However, the quality of thest three was the same as the first one, showing no improvement.


    In front of the courtyard, several young men and women arrived. Their expressions were somewhat grim, and one of them sneered, ¡°Even my older brother couldn''t have this courtyard, but now Elder Fang Ao has actually given it to someone? I want to see what kind of person he is to receive such favor from Elder Fang Ao.¡±

 Chapter 326: A Competition of Techniques

    <h4>Chapter 326: A Competition of Techniques</h4>


    ¡°Fang Hao, let¡¯s not stir up trouble. After all, it was Elder Fang Ao''s decision...¡± someone said nervously. As the person in charge of the third branch, Fang Ao held enough authority over its disciples.


    ¡°Are you all just going to back down like this? Are you really afraid of some wandering branch disciple who suddenly appeared out of nowhere?¡±


    Fang Hao sneered. ¡°My elder brother is at the 11th stage of the Qi Refining Realm. This courtyard is rich in spiritual energy, it has spiritual fields and spiritual springs. Many cultivators die vying for these types of resources. Are you all willing to let a mere side branch disciple upy it to himself so easily?¡±


    Everyone faltered, clearly unwilling.


    They had been born into the Fang Family, and they were from the main branch, yet they never owned a decent cultivation cave dwelling like this one. How could they swallow the fact that a side branch disciple hade in and swooped such a nice spot for himself, overshadowing them?


    Fang Hao''s expression turned sly. ¡°Moreover... I heard that this person is on good terms with Xia Ji,¡± Fang Hao said. ¡°Xia Ji has been spreading rumors about Jue Wudi recently. I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve all heard about it, right? I remember Fang Lingxing was really angry because of this. Why don¡¯t we teach this guy a lesson so we can help her vent her anger?¡±


    Everyone exchanged nces and in the next moment, they nodded silently in agreement.


    Fang Hao immediately knocked on the door.


    Soon, Li Cang opened the door, and upon seeing several disciples of the third branch standing before him, his expression instantly turned polite and he greeted, ¡°Wee, everyone.¡±


    ¡°Li Cang?! Why are you here?¡± asked Fang Hao in surprise, his face turning grim.


    ¡°I am now a servant of Young Master Fang Chen,¡± replied Li Cang respectfully.


    Everyone looked at one other in astonishment.


    Although Li Cang was just a martial artist, he was a Royal Qi martial artist, someone of the third level of the Heaven Profound Stage, a Martial King.


    A Martial King could even pose a threat to Qi Refining Realm cultivators in certain ways. Li Cang had been directly under Fang Ao''smand. Even if someone requested to have him as their servant, Fang Ao would refuse.


    But now, Fang Ao had actually assigned Li Cang to serve a disciple from a side branch who had just returned to the family?!


    Everyone was perplexed.


    <i>Could that Fang Chen be Fang Ao¡¯s illegitimate child?</i>


    Fang Hao broke the silence, his voice deep. "If Fang Chen is here, let me meet him. I wish to speak to him.¡±


    Li Cang apologetically answered, ¡°Young Master Fang Chen has been in seclusion for the past half a month and hasn''te out since.¡±


    Fang Hao frowned and demanded, ¡°For half a month? Please inform him toe out now.¡±


    Li Cang was about to refuse, but it seemed that Fang Hao suddenly had a different idea, as he quickly said. ¡°Forget it, we''ll go in by ourselves.¡±


    Li Cang circled past Li Cang and led the others straight into the cave dwelling.


    Feeling that something strange was going on, Li Cang shed swiftly to block their paths. He forced a smile and said, ¡°Everyone, please don''t put me in a difficult spot.¡±


    If he couldn¡¯t even stop these few people from barging right inside, what face would he have left to remain here?


    Fang Hao sneered. ¡°How dare you stop us, Li Cang. We are the masters, and you are just a servant. Don¡¯t think you can disrespect us just because you''re at the third level of the Heaven Profound Stage.¡±


    ¡°If you don''t step aside now, don''t me me for being ruthless.¡±


    Li Cang''s expression changed. Gritting his teeth, he bowed low, urging, ¡°Please, don''t make things difficult for me.¡±


    The atmosphere turned silent and tense.


    Most of those with Fang Hao were only at the fifth and sixth stages of the Qi Refining Realm, which wouldn¡¯t be enough for them to match Li Cang at all unless they had a special talisman up their sleeve or an advanced technique they knew. Even Fang Hao was just in the eighth stage, which was only considered among the middle level of the younger generation of the family. To reach the upper level, the criteria was that one had to at least reach the tenth stage.


    ¡°You¡¯re seeking death,¡± hollored Fang Hao as the surrounding spiritual energy surged. The next second, two stone hands sprouted from the ground and grasped Li Cang''s ankles tightly.


    Controlling the earth element!


    Li Cang took a breath, and with a sudden burst of strength, he shattered the two stone hands into pieces before bowing once more, his tone pleading, ¡°Please. Stop making things difficult for me.¡±


    Seeing how he had been easily countered by Li Cang, Fang Hao''s face darkened, and he felt embarrassed. Just as he was about to strike again, he spotted a young man approaching.


    Fang Hao''s face twitched slightly as he scrutinized Fang Chen from head to toe. ¡°You must be Fang Chen?¡±


    Li Cang was very relieved when he saw that Fang Chen was here, and he walked up to him respectfully and whispered into his ears, ¡°Young Master Fang Chen, this is Young Master Fang Hao. His elder brother is the senior disciple of Elder Fang Ao.¡±


    ¡°You did well.¡± Fang Chen nodded. ¡°Here, take this spirit stone,¡± he said, tossing a spirit stone to Li Cang.


    Li Cang was first stunned, then pleasantly surprised.


    <i>A spirit stone!</i>


    Martial artists needed various spiritual herbs to enhance their martial cultivation, but these herbs needed spirit stones to buy, not gold and silver.


    A Martial King like Li Cang¡¯s annual expenditure of spirit stones was about seven or eight pieces. This one piece of low-grade spirit stone was equivalent to what he needed for one and a half months of cultivation. He could use it to buy many pills and herbs for his martial cultivation!


    Li Cang pocketed the spirit stones carefully as he said, ¡°Thank you, Young Master Fang Chen!¡±


    <i>¡®He¡¯s quite generous,¡¯</i> thought Fang Hao¡¯spany in unison, their eyes sparkling.


    Fang Chen walked up to them before halting his steps. ncing at Fang Hao and hispany, he asked, ¡°What brings all of you here?¡±


    "You can''t live in this courtyard,¡± said Fang Hao sternly. ¡°I hope you''ll inform Elder Fang Ao and move out of there as soon as possible."


    Fang Chen was surprised. ¡°Is this courtyard yours?¡±


    Fang Hao was taken aback. ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°If it''s not yours, why can''t I live here?¡± asked Fang Chen.


    Fang Hao sneered. ¡°In the vast Fang Family, only a handful of disciples can live in such a courtyard. It''s reserved for the top, the rank one disciples. Now tell me, do you think you''re qualified to live here? When I heard that a descendant of a side branch hase to the family and was assigned to live here, it just didn¡¯t sit well with me to have someone like that live here. Heed my advice, because if you continue to stay here, trouble wille knocking constantly. Don¡¯t you want to have time for your cultivation?¡±


    The threat was very evident in his words.


    Li Cang''s expression changed slightly. He had already guessed that there would be troubleing soon because of the courtyard, but he didn¡¯t expect it to arrive so soon.


    ¡°What if I insist on staying?¡±


    ¡°Tomorrow, everyone will bepeting on their techniques. So, if you insist on staying here, then we¡¯ll leave it to our skills to determine how this¡¯ll end tomorrow. The family has its fatalities too, every year. You¡¯d better think it through,¡± warned Fang Hao.


    Fang Chen asked again, ¡°So?¡±


    <i>So?!</i>


    Fang Hao was driven mad. He had spoken so clearly, yet this Fang Chen was still acting dumb! Indeed, birds die for food, and people die for wealth!


    ¡°All third branch disciples will be required to participate in tomorrow''spetition, and you are no exception. I hope to get your answer tomorrow," said Fang Hao before turning to leave.


    After they left, Li Cang said with concern, ¡°Young Master Fang Chen, you should be careful tomorrow.¡±


    Fang Chen casually asked, ¡°What¡¯s thispetition he¡¯s talking about? I''m new here so I don¡¯t know many things. Can you please enlighten me?¡±

 Chapter 327: The Situation of the Fourth Branch

    <h4>Chapter 327: The Situation of the Fourth Branch</h4>


    Li Cang quickly filled Fang Chen in on everything he knew.


    It turned out that there were various types ofpetitions set up every year for the disciples to spar in, and they were organized by every branch. These were referred to as ¡°Minor Competitions.¡±


    In addition to the Small Competitions, there were also Grand Competitions, and these were held once every five years, in which every member of the family needed to participate. The next Grand Competition was just half a year away.


    The third branch¡¯s Minor Competition would be held tomorrow. Thepetition was split into three sections: pill refinement, talisman crafting, and techniques. The pill refinement and talisman craftingpetitions were bearable as they were more of a demonstration rather than apetition. And since there weren''t many disciples in the third branch who pursued these two paths, the results of these two were usually quite ordinary. After all, if a cultivator didn¡¯t have sufficient talent, then pursuing any of these two paths could prove to be a waste of precious cultivation time.


    Now came the techniques section, which was the highlight of tomorrow''spetition. The most outstanding disciples of the third branch would be present to demonstrate their techniques to the other disciples. During thepetition, the Foundation Building Realm cultivators of the third branch would be the judges. The top ten in the Minor Competition would receive varying spirit stones as rewards. If a third rank disciple entered the top ten, they could be promoted to the second rank.


    ¡°Young Master Fang Chen, Fang Jue is the most well-received person in the third branch. He¡¯s Elder Fang Ao''s eldest disciple, so I don¡¯t need to speak about how talented he is. He has been cultivating since young and has already reached the 11th stage of the Qi Refining Realm,¡± said Li Cang. ¡°Hisprehension of techniques surpasses ordinary people. Among the disciples of the same level in the third branch, no one can beat him. For the Minor Competitions that have been set up in thest ten years, Fang Jue has alwayse out on top.¡±


    Fang Chen asked with a faint smile, ¡°Besides Fang Jue, are there any other remarkable people in the third branch?¡±


    Li Cang was slightly taken aback. He could sense that Fang Chen didn¡¯t put Fang Jue in his eye at all!


    ¡°Young Master Fang Chen, the techniquepetition does not allow for the use of external powers, which means... spiritual treasures and talismans cannot be used,¡± Li Cang reminded Fang Chen tactfully.


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. ¡°Tell me about the other remarkable individuals.¡±


    Li Cang continued, ¡°Other than Fang Jue, several disciples under the Foundation Building Realm elders of the third branch are also remarkable. They are all at the tenth stage of the Qi Refining Realm. Only those who have reached this stage will be considered first rank disciples.¡±


    After some thought, Li Cang reminded Fang Chen again, ¡°Since you understand the Dao of Talismans, you don¡¯t have to participate in the techniques section of thepetition.¡±


    Fang Chen chuckled. ¡°Are you afraid that I will lose to Fang Hao and the others tomorrow?¡± he asked. ¡°Do you know what they say about blessings in disguise and unavoidable disasters? I am a neer; either I bite my lip and endure being trampled on, or I trample on them first and secure a peaceful future for myself.¡±


    Li Cang''s thoughts stirred slightly. He suddenly became curious about Fang Chen''s Qi Refining cultivation level. <i>He must be above the tenth stage of the Qi Refining Realm or he wouldn''t be so confident. It seems like I''ve really chosen the right person. As long as he doesn''t get defeated by Fang Hao and the others this time, his future days will naturally be better.</i>


    Fang Chen changed the subject sharply. ¡°How strong is the third branch inparison to the other branches of the family?¡±


    ¡°Well... I dare notment on this matter..¡± Li Cang''s expression changed slightly. He could inform Fang Chen of the formidable individuals in the third branch, but he dared notpare the difference in strengths between the branches. That involved the elders of the Foundation Building Realm and above, who were the true core of the Fang Family.


    After all, one of the two Golden Core Realm ancestors enjoyed drinking and didn''t bother with worldly affairs, while the other had been in seclusion for many years.


    Fang Chen smiled. ¡°I''m the one asking you so it doesn''t count as you gossiping. Just tell me what you think, and I''ll take it into consideration.¡±


    Gritting his teeth, Li Cang said in a low voice, ¡°There are four branches in the Fang Family, with varying strengths. Taking the main branch as an example, since the Head originates from there, they are the strongest. It has over eight hundred family members, nurturing thousands of martial artists and servants, with eight Foundation Buildings Realm cultivators and dozens of disciples at the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm. In the younger generation, there are talents like Young Lady Fang Lingxing, who has already reached the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm and is halfway into the Foundation Building Realm.


    ¡°As for the second branch, it is led by Elder Fang Long, with four Foundation Building Realm cultivators and over a dozen disciples at the twelfth stage of the Qi Refining Realm. In the younger generation, there are talents such as Young Master Fang Jue, who¡¯s in the 11th stage of the Qi Refining Realm.


    ¡°As for our third branch... It is led by Elder Fang Ao. It has two Foundation Building Realm cultivators and five to six members at the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm. Fang Jue is the most outstanding member of the younger generation."


    ¡°Andstly, for the fourth branch...¡± Li Cang''s expression became strange. ¡°There¡¯s only one Foundation Building Realm elder in that branch, and he rarely appears in public. Their branch is not very prosperous, it has only a dozen or so members. However, it has Fang Xiu, who is exceptionally talented. It is rumored that he is about to advance to the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm.¡±


    The difference in numbers between the fourth branch and the first branch was...quite significant. However... There was still a young genius in the fourth branch who wasparable to Fang Lingxing. That proved that the fourth branch should not be underestimated.


    ¡°Is Fang Lingxing a representative of the younger generation in the Fang Family?¡± asked Fang Chen.


    Li Cang thought for a moment and nodded. ¡°She should be.¡±


    Fang Chen added, ¡°I heard there¡¯s a genius in the younger generation of the Jue Family who is now a Foundation Building Realm cultivator.¡±


    Li Cang''s expression changed. ¡°You''re talking about Jue Wudi. This young master is exceptionally talented and overshadows his peers in the imperial capital. He¡¯s as strong as the members of the imperial family and no one in the same generation canpete with him,¡± said Li Cang. He then hesitated, seemingly wanting to say something more. ¡°But....¡±


    ¡°Go on,¡± said Fang Chen.


    ¡°I heard rumors that when Jue Wudi was young, someone took him in as his disciple. His master is highly likely to be from a third-tier empire, with an unfathomable cultivation. However, I¡¯m not sure if the rumors are real as I¡¯ve only heard of them from other people,¡± said Li Cang respectfully.


    <i>A powerful figure from a third-tier empire might be backing up Jue Wudi?</i>


    ***


    ¡°Who are we killing this time, Big Brother?¡±


    In the courtyard of Lord Tiger, an unknown figure stood in the shadows, seamlessly blending into the darkness. If he hadn¡¯t spoken, ordinary cultivators wouldn''t notice his presence.


    Lord Tiger had been drinking a cup of tea when he heard that voice, and it started him into spilling his tea. He hurriedly stabilized the falling cup lid with his spiritual energy then looked toward the shadow and sighed. ¡°Fourth brother, I''ve told you countless times that you need to give me a heads-up before youe here. I am getting old and I can''t handle these surprises anymore.¡±


    Ever since a certain someone had pointed a flying sword at his forehead, Lord Tiger had been feeling quiet on edge.


    The figure paused for a moment, then continued with a hoarse voice, ¡°Got it, Big Brother. Who''s the target this time?¡±


    ¡°All the information is in this jade slip. After you¡¯re done reading, burn it immediately.¡±


    With a flick of his hand, Lord Tiger tossed out a jade slip.


    After a moment, the figure crushed the jade slip with his hand and said in a deep voice, ¡°Fang Lingxing from the Fang Family? With a Golden Core Realm expert in the Fang Family, I might not be able to leave the Great Qian imperial capital safely after making my move.¡±


    ¡°With your concealment technique, Fourth Brother, even a Golden Core Realm expert would find it difficult to find you even if they want to. Besides, we¡¯ll be catching them off gua¡ª¡± Lord Tiger¡¯s eyes suddenly turned wary. ¡°Wait, are you trying to bargain with me?¡± he asked. ¡°The boss only offered six hundred low-grade spirit stones. It''s fair for me to pocket a hundred. Don''t push your luck.¡±


    ¡°Five hundred and fifty, and I''ll take the job,¡± said the figure.


    ¡°Go to Hell! I''m working hard here taking all the risks and you want me to only get fifty low-grade spirit stones? These aren¡¯t even enough to support my men.¡± Lord Tiger¡¯s eyes narrowed ringly. ¡°Five hundred and twenty is myst offer. No more bargaining!¡±


    The figure nodded in agreement. ¡°Deal.¡±


    A moment of silence ensued, and after a while, Lord Tiger probed, ¡°Fourth Brother, are you still there?¡±


    There was no response.


    Fang Chen¡¯s divine soul had been standing in the void this whole time, and he had seen the entire scene from start to finish, causing a strange light to sh in his eyes.


    That figure¡¯s technique was quite interesting. If he wasn¡¯t watching this with his divine soul, he wouldn''t have been able to detect that figure.


    ¡°A Golden Core Realm can¡¯t split his soul from his body yet, which means that they¡¯ll probably not sense anything, ¡± mused Fang Chen.

 Chapter 328: Shadow Buddha

    <h4>Chapter 328: Shadow Buddha</h4>


    Fang Chen''s divine soul had been tailing the figure when he noticed that he had hidden himself in the shadows in front of the Fang Family¡¯s gate. Fang Chen couldn¡¯t help but marvel at that person¡¯s boldness. It seemed that he was waiting to ambush Fang Lingxing and kill her.


    Fang Chen¡¯s divine soul returned to his body, and he walked out of the alley and headed to Lord Tiger¡¯s residence. As soon as the servant opened the door and saw his face, he greeted him respectfully, ¡°Young Master Fang, pleasee in.¡±


    Fang Chen smiled. It was clear that this was an attempt to intimidate him, a warning of sorts that they had been able to uncover his identity.


    Lord Tiger was very enthusiastic as he ushered Fang Chen in. ¡°Brother Fang Chen, please have a seat. I''ve just brewed a pot of tea. Please have a taste.¡±


    After Fang Chen sat down, he asked with a mysterious smile, ¡°You know about my background?¡±


    Lord Tiger smiled widely. ¡°Brother Fang Chen, you didn¡¯t bother to hide it. Everyone knows that a disciple from a side branch has returned to the Fang Family, so It isn¡¯t just me.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no harm in knowing. I never intended to hide it,¡± said Fang Chen.


    Lord Tiger¡¯s expression changed. Fang Chen''s reaction was different from what he had expected. There was no anger, frustration, or shock at his intel. Instead, he showed indifference, calmness, and nonchnce....


    Fang Chen¡¯s attitude left him even more uncertain than he had been....


    As Lord Tiger thought of that, the smile that he had on his face turned a little rigid, and it seemed a bit forced now.


    Fang Chen picked up the teacup and took a sip, a smile on his lips. ¡°Oh, by the way, that concealment technique that your fourth brother uses has really caught my eye. I wonder what kind of technique it is?"


    Thud.


    The cup in Tiger Lord''s hands fell onto the table and bounced to the floor, spilling tea everywhere.


    Tiger Lord stared nkly at Fang Chen, his expression changing constantly. There was fear beginning to appear in his eyes.


    How did Fang Chen know that? Even he himself hadn¡¯t been able to tell when his fourth brother arrived or left. How could Fang Chen know about what happened in his courtyard?


    <i>How-how did he even know about fourth brother?</i>


    Fear gripped Tiger Lord¡¯s heart, and he quickly eximed, ¡°Are you someone from the Heavenly Doom Hall?!"


    There was simply no other exnation! Only a few cultivators from the Heavenly Doom Hall knew the detailed situations of their several brothers! And he had many enemies in the Heavenly Doom Hall.


    <i>Could it be that...?</i>


    "I am not a cultivator from the Heavenly Doom Hall." Fang Chen smiled. "I was just asking casually, why are you so worked up? There are many well-informed people in this world, and I''m just one of them."


    Tiger Lord showed a bitter twist, his face flushing with embarrassment. "I... I¡¯ve embarrassed myself just now...."


    Obviously, Fang Chen had intentionally said this to settle the score about figuring his identity out, and it had nothing to do with the Heavenly Doom Hall. If Fang Chen had been sent by one of his enemies, he wouldn¡¯t have exposed the fact that he knew about his fourth brother so easily.


    But no matter what, the background of the cultivator in front of him was very mysterious, and his origins needed to be investigated. He was definitely not just an ordinary member of the Fang Family''s side branch....


    His fourth brother had been to the capital countless times before, and even the Golden Core Realm experts had never been able to notice him at all. Yet this person before him could easily sense his fourth brother¡¯s presence.


    That was frightening.


    Fang Chen smiled and continued to inquire, "So what kind of technique was that, Lord Tiger?"


    After hesitating for a moment, Lord Tiger whispered, "This technique is called Shadow Buddha."


    "Shadow Buddha?" Fang Chen''s eyes flickered. "What does it have to do with Buddha?"


    "There is a myth that exists, it says that there is a type of Buddha known as Shadow Buddha. They move within the shadows, observing the good and evil deeds of humanity. If they witness evil acts, they will intervene, and if they see virtuous deeds, they bestow blessings." Lord Tiger chuckled. "But this is just a myth. No one knows whether a Shadow Buddha really exists out there or not. This technique is one of the three major concealment techniques of the Heavenly Doom Hall. It''s the most difficult to master, but once mastered, its capabilities far surpass the other two.


    "In my youth, I dabbled in it a bit, but unfortunately, I didn''t have the talent necessary. Among everyone in the Heavenly Doom Hall, my fourth brother is the only one who has truly mastered this technique, even the Golden Core Realm experts fall short whenpared to him in this."


    Fang Chen suddenly asked, "Is this technique up for sale?"


    Lord Tiger was slightly taken aback, his eyes instantly lighting up. "For sale? Of course! Everything is up for sale if the price is right. Do you want this technique, Daoist Fang? If so, I wonder what price you''re willing to offer?"


    He had addressed Fang Chen as "Brother" before because he had wanted Fang Chen to know that he had learned of his identity. But now, with how everything had yed out, he didn¡¯t dare address him so casually anymore and had instead switched to the term "Daoist Fang" to disy his respect.


    Fang Chen smiled. "What''s your asking price?"


    Fang Chen was pleasantly surprised. He didn¡¯t expect Lord Tiger to agree to sell it.


    "The Shadow Buddha technique is a forbidden secret of the Heavenly Doom Hall. If I were to sell it without authorization, I would be taking a great risk. Naturally, the price won''t be cheap. How about two thousand low-grade spirit stones? In addition, you must swear not to teach this technique to anyone else," whispered Lord Tiger.


    "One thousand low-grade spiritual stones." Fang Chen smiled. "Deal?"


    Lord Tiger was struck speechless. "This... Daoist Fang, why are you cutting the price in half like this!"


    Fang Chen chuckled. "You took one thousand low-grade spiritual stones from me but only gave your junior brother five hundred and twenty. Isn''t that considered a drastic price cut?"


    <i>He even knows about that?! Was he here earlier?! But why weren¡¯t we able to detect his presence at all?!</i>


    Lord Tiger felt his skin pimple with goosebumps.


    Taking a deep breath, Lord Tiger nodded. "Alright, one thousand low-grade spirit stones. Deal."


    Fang Chen smiled and pulled one thousand spirit stones from his ring before cing them in front of Lord Tiger.


    Lord Tiger was excited to see the spirit stones, and he immediately threw a jade slip to Fang Chen, then casually said, "Daoist Fang, don¡¯t forget to make your oath."


    Fang Chen nodded casually and said, "Mm, I won''t teach it to anyone else." He then began to examine the jade slip.


    <i>Such a simple oath?</i>


    Lord Tiger was momentarily stunned, but after some thought, he decided not to dwell on it and instead turned to stare at the pile of spirit stones in front of him with excitement. What a good deal this was!


    Amidst his joy, he didn¡¯t forget to mock Fang Chen in his heart.


    <i>Even if you''re as cunning as a fox, you''d never imagine that the Shadow Buddha isn''t worth a single penny in the Heavenly Doom Hall, right? Hahaha! This technique has been around for thousands of years but only a few have managed to master it. It''s useless!</i>


    By now, Fang Chen had already finished reading the cultivation method for the technique, and he recited it silently in his mind. Suddenly, in the next moment, his divine soul began to fluctuate, as if being circted by the method.


    Fang Chen could sense that his divine soul had been depleted a little, and after that, Fang Chen felt that his surroundings had turned a little peculiar. He seemed to have been immersed in the shadows, and his vicinity had turned blurry as if veiled by ayer of mist


    Even though Fang Chen couldn¡¯t see, he could still clearly perceive what was around him.


    <i>No wonder this technique is difficult to master. It doesn''t consume spiritual energy but drains the power of the divine soul. Without sufficient power of the divine soul, one wouldn''t even qualify to begin practicing it. The grade of this technique must be far higher than I imagined, one would probably have to be at the Nascent Soul Realm at the very least in order to practice it.</i>


    Snagging a technique like this for just a thousand low-grade spirit stones was definitely worth it. If it was sold to someone knowledgeable, even if it was priced at ten thousand low-grade spirit stones, they would flock to it like moths to a me!


    "Daoist Fang, the payment is settled," said Lord Tiger with a smile after confirming everything was in order. However, when he looked up, he was stunned. There was nothing in front of him.


    <i>Where the hell did Daoist Fang go?!</i>

 Chapter 329: Met Too Late

    <h4>Chapter 329: Met Too Late</h4>


    "Daoist Fang, have you left?" asked Lord Tiger as he scanned the room with his eyes. He couldn''t see Fang Chen anywhere.


    Fang Chen¡¯s voice came from the shadows. "Not yet. This Shadow Buddha Technique is really quite effective.¡±


    Lord Tiger was startled, and he began to quiver. He looked toward a certain shadow in the courtyard with a horrified face.


    <i>How could this be?! How is this possible?!</i>


    Fang Chen had just obtained the Shadow Buddha Technique from him, but he had already managed to use it! It had taken even his exceptionally talented fourth brother eight years of practice just to reach this level, during which he neglected his cultivation and paid a significant price! But Fang Chen seemed to have... spent only the time it took to finish a cup of tea?


    Lord Tiger wasn''t entirely sure how this was possible, but he could feel a storm of shock and horror rising in his heart. If it weren''t for his many years of cultivation, this might¡¯ve left a mark on his Dao heart.


    Suddenly, Lord Tiger saw Fang Chen appear again in his seat, as if he had never left it to begin with.


    Lord Tiger stammered, "D-Daoist Fang, don''t tell me t-that the technique you¡¯ve just used was the Shadow Buddha Technique."


    Fang Chen chuckled. "What other technique could I¡¯ve used?"


    Lord Tiger fell into silence.


    <i>What a loss. A huge loss!</i>


    "Oh, right¡± Fang Chen took out a Binding Talisman and ced it on the table, ¡°could you help me evaluate the value of this talisman?"


    Trying to calm his nerves, Lord Tiger reached out for the talisman and began to closely examine. "What talisman is this?"


    Fang Chen smiled. "A Binding Talisman, mid-grade, yellow rank."


    Lord Tiger drew in a sharp breath of cold air. "A mid-grade, yellow rank Binding Talisman?"


    Talismans weremon items, but that was only true when it involved ordinary talismans, like the low-grade, yellow-rank ones such as Divine Movement Talismans, Strength Talismans, and Fireball Talismans. These talismans were widely circted, and even cultivators at the third stage of Qi Refining could craft them. However, mid-grade, yellow rank talismans were different. They far surpassed the low-grade ones in terms of both effectiveness and power. Additionally, they had high requirements for the materials and cultivation level. To craft mid-grade, yellow rank talismans, one needed sufficient spiritual energy. Otherwise, if one ran out of it halfway, the talisman would be rendered useless. Therefore, mid-grade, yellow rank talismans typically required a cultivation that is at least at the Foundation Building Realm, with the Golden Core Realm being the most optimal.


    If one had such a talisman in battle, it could almost certainly turn the tide of the battle.


    "The spiritual energy in it is rich and majestic. This is really a mid-grade, yellow rank talisman. However, whether it is a Binding Talisman remains to be seen. We need to find a cultivator who has seen one before to verify it," muttered Lord Tiger.


    He looked up at Fang Chen and said, "If this is really a mid-grade, yellow rank Binding Talisman, then the price it could fetch won¡¯t be low. One would be worth at least two hundred low-grade spirit stones. If you''re willing to sell, I''ll buy it."


    "The price is a bit low. How about two hundred and fifty?" Fang Chen smiled. "If you resell it, you could easily earn yourself dozens of spirit stones, risk free."


    Lord Tiger fell silent for a moment, then sighed softly. "Well, even though I wouldn¡¯t be making much of a profit at this price, I can still keep them for personal use."


    Fang Chen took out another three Binding Talisman and ced them on the table.


    Lord Tiger was startled, and his eyes suddenly turned fiery. "Four Binding Talismans?"


    Talismans were a ssic example of how quantity could lead to a qualitative change. Adding three more Binding Talismans to the mix wasn¡¯t simply addition. If one Binding Talisman had a certain chance of turning the tide of a battle, then four Binding Talismans... would be a massive trump card! With these on hand, even if one met more than one opponent, two or three, one could still have a fighting chance!


    Lord Tiger chuckled awkwardly and said, "Daoist Fang, could you make it a bit cheaper? You see, I just thought it was only one Binding Talisman. If it''s four, can we negotiate the price to two hundred and twenty?"


    "If that''s the case, I''ll just sell them to the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion. I believe they would ept them at two hundred and fifty," replied Fang Chen.


    Lord Tiger''s expression changed several times, but in the end, he gritted his teeth and said softly, "I''ll take them. But could you promise me one thing, Daoist Fang?"


    Fang Chen smiled. "What?"


    Lord Tiger said, "If you happen to have any more mid-grade, yellow rank talismans that you¡¯re willing to sell from now on, I hope that you¡¯ll consider informing me first about them."


    Fang Chen nodded "Alright, I promise."


    This was one of the reasons Fang Chen came here. Selling the Purple Lightning Talisman was fine, since it belonged to the low grade. However, if he openly sold mid-grade, yellow rank talismans, it would attract too much attention.


    Even if the Fang Family''s Golden Core Realm cultivators weren''t interested in the inheritance of the Purple Lightning Talisman, they might be interested in the inheritance of the Binding Talisman. So selling the talismans to Lord Tiger was one of the best choices he had.


    The twopleted the transaction. The spirit stones Fang Chen had just given to Lord Tiger were returned right back to Fang Chen.


    "Daoist Fang, when ites to making money, you are much more skilled than I am. Four Binding Talisman for a thousand low-grade spirit stones, it''s truly enviable," sighed Lord Tiger.


    Fang Chen''s expression shifted slightly. "You could do the same if you want."


    Lord Tiger''s eyes flickered. "What do you mean by that?"


    Fang Chen smiled. "Are you interested in the inheritance of the Binding Talisman?"


    Lord Tiger sprang to his feet, looking at Fang Chen in surprise. "Are you really willing to sell me the inheritance of the Binding Talisman?"


    "You can forget I said anything if you¡¯re not interested,¡± said Fang Chen.


    Lord Tiger responded in a hurry, "Yes, I am interested, interested! But I¡¯m wondering about your asking price. I won¡¯t be able to afford alone it if it¡¯s too expensive.¡±


    Fang Chen smiled. "With your connections, there''s no such thing. As for the price, you can decide,¡± he said. ¡°Everthing is up for sale as long as the price is right, right?¡±


    "Daoist Fang, we really met toote. If I had met you years ago, I would have definitely made a lot more money!" Lord Tiger sighed suddenly, then changed the subject. "The inheritance of the Binding Talisman is extremely important. If the Jue Family, the Fang Family, and even the imperial family, caught wind that you¡¯re selling it, they¡¯ll definitelypete for it. However, in doing so, you would expose yourself to unnecessary trouble. I happen to be able to solve this problem for you."


    Lord Tiger proposed, "How about five thousand low-grade spirit stones?"


    Fang Chen shook his head slightly. "Too low."


    Lord Tiger looked troubled. "Daoist Fang, you may not know this, but it¡¯s very hard to craft these talismans, and it''s not easy to find experts in this field. If the price is too high, no one would be willing to pay for it."


    Fang Chen said calmly, "One Binding Talisman can sell for two hundred and fifty low-grade spirit stones. If you make twenty of them, you''ll break even. I believe even those who can''t make these symbols themselves can do the math. I will sell it for ten thousand low-grade spirit stones, not a single stone less. If you know your way around, you can even sell the inheritance for more. I will only take ten thousand and you can keep the rest. But if you don¡¯t have what it takes to do this, then you can forget I said anything.¡±


    "Can I really keep the money if I sell it for more?"


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "Yes."


    "Alright, I''ll do it.¡± Lord Tiger smiled again. ¡°I guarantee that within a year, I''ll help you sell it."


    Ten thousand low-grade spirit stones? That was a massive bargain. He would make up for the loss he suffered with the Shadow Buddha Technique. He was determined to double his profit in this deal.


    Fang Chen shook his head and turned down the proposal. "One month. You have only one month. I¡¯ll only put it up for sale for one month, not a second longer."


    He couldn''t wait for a year.

 Chapter 330: Gambling Stones at the Immortal Origin District

    <h4>Chapter 330: Gambling Stones at the Immortal Origin District</h4>


    Lord Tiger was taken aback. "One month?"


    Lord Tiger¡¯s face turned serious. If it was a year, he¡¯d be confident in his ability to find a buyer. But a month? He couldn¡¯t make any promises.


    He might have to rely on the local families here.


    Lord Tiger fell silent for a moment, then said, "Give me three days, Daoist Fang. I¡¯ll have to think this through, I can¡¯t make any promises now."


    Fang Chen nodded. It would¡¯ve been more weird if Lord Tiger readily agreed. This was a deal worth ten thousand spirit stones after all, which was arge sum of money even in fifth-tier empires.


    Fang Chen left Lord Tiger¡¯s ce, and just as he was nning to go to the Profound Void Temple to chat with Xia Ji, he ran into an unexpected acquaintance.


    It was Fang Yun, and she had a few people with her, among whom was Fang Hao. There was also a slender and distinguished-looking young man with them.


    When Fang Yun spotted Fang Chen, she frowned and asked, "Why are you here?"


    Fang Chen smiled. <i>An aura in the 11th stage of the Qi Refining Realm. This person is most likely Fang Jue.</i>


    "Nothing really, just wondering around," said Fang Chen. He then walked past them and made his way toward the outskirts of the city.


    Fang Hao sneered. "What a rude person. He doesn''t have any manners. Couldn¡¯t he even stop and pay his respects to my brother?"


    "I heard he''s blind, so of course he can''t see Brother Fang Jue," said one of them with a chuckle.


    "Be a bit more polite to our guests." Fang Jue frowned slightly, then called out to Fang Chen. "Are you Fang Chen? How about joining us for a stroll at the Immortal Origin District since you¡¯re free?"


    Fang Yun expressed her dissatisfaction. "Senior Brother, why bother inviting him? He used to live out in the boonies, what would he know about stone gambling?¡±


    Fang Jue chuckled. "Junior sister, we''re all from the same family, you don¡¯t have to be like this."


    "But Father gave him that courtyard all to himself. Why? Logically speaking, it should¡¯ve been yours," snorted Fang Yun angrily.


    Fang Jue sighed lightly, looking apologetic as he nced at Fang Chen. "Fang Chen, my junior sister has always been like this. She means no harm. I hope you can forgive her."


    "It''s fine." Fang Chen shook his head slightly then casually asked, "What does gambling stones at Immortal Origin District mean?"


    Fang Yun rolled her eyes. "See, Senior brother? He doesn''t even know about it at all. And he can''t see either. What''s the point of himing?"


    However, Fang Jue patiently exined what it was to Fang Chen.


    "I see, the so-called ¡®Immortal Origin¡¯ refers to stones that contain an object from immortal families?" mused Fang Chen. It seemed simr to jade gambling, just the contents of the stones were different.


    "Yes. They could even be empty. It all depends on experience, foresight, and luck. Anyway, it''s quite fun. ying it in leisure time can temper one''s senses." Fang Jue nodded with a smile, his tone seemingly excited. It was evident that he was very enthusiastic about gambling on stones.


    Fang Chen remembered that when he had first arrived at Fang''s Manor, Fang Yun mentioned something about going to the Immortal Origin District to find Fang Jue. It seemed like this guy spent his free time there.


    Fang Chen nodded slightly. "In that case, I''ll join too. I''d like to broaden my horizons."


    Fang Jue was ted and immediately urged everyone to head to Immortal Origin District.


    Fang Hao and the others didn''t know what to say, and they could only show their discontent through their faces to Fang Chen. But it suddenly hit them that he was blind and he wouldn¡¯t even see it, so they lost interest.


    Immortal Origin District was one of the eighteen districts in the outer city, and it had earned the name ¡°Immortal Origin District¡± because the entire square specialized in the business of Immortal Origins.


    On the way there, Fang Jue exined the origin of Immortal Origins in detail to Fang Chen, but it was only for reference, interspersed with many legends, none of which could be confirmed.


    ording to legend, these Immortal Origin Stone fell from the sky, and the ¡°sky¡± here referred to the immortal realm. Therefore, they often contained very precious items that had apparently originated from the immortal realm, such as treasures, pills, and rare spiritual herbs that have long disappeared from the mortal world.


    But how many real Immortal Origin Stone were there in the world? The vast majority of so-called Immortal Origin Stone were just ordinary stones that had been tainted with the aura of Immortal Origins. If you buy these kinds of stones, you''ll lose as much money as you spend. However, that has attracted many cultivators to participate, and even ordinary martial artists andmoners would asionally try their hand at it. If they were lucky, they could strike it rich overnight,pletely altering their fate.


    Fang Chen smiled. "It seems you are quite experienced."


    Fang Jue chuckled. "I wouldn''t say that, I just happen to know a little bit more."


    "Overall, senior brother has not lost much in the Immortal Origin District. There are few people in the imperial capital who can achieve this," said Fang Yun proudly.


    <i>Not losing much was something to be proud of? Doesn''t that mean that every cultivator who ys in Immortal Origin Stone is losing? </i>


    Fang Chen smiled but didn''t respond.


    Upon reaching the outer city, Fang Chen suddenly stopped in his tracks and nced in a certain direction. He sensed the aura of Jiang Zhong and Jiang Tianai, who were walking with a Foundation Building Realm cultivator and were preparing to enter the inner city.


    They did not see Fang Chen as the street was very crowded, but his keen perception allowed him to notice them.


    Fang Chen''s eyes shed with a hint of amusement. <i>They said that there is a prominent family in the Great Qian Empire whose ancestors served the Jiang Family. There was a possibility that it could be the Jue Family or Fang Family. </i>


    After half an hour, Fang Jue smiled and said, "We''re here."


    Fang Chen could faintly sense that the atmosphere here was different from elsewhere¡ªit was bubbling with excitement. The air was filled with never-endingughter and shouting. Even cultivators, who were usually cold in their dealings, seemed to turn quite excited when they arrived here.


    Fang Chen¡¯s divine soul left his body, which allowed him to see everything in the Immortal Origin District.


    It was very lively, and the street was filled to the brim with people. There were numerous stalls setup on the street, and thriving businesses at the roadside shops.


    They all had one thing inmon, and that was the green stones they had perched on the stalls and counters, stones that emitted a faint spiritual energy.


    Fang Jue led everyone into a shop by the street.


    As soon as Fang Chen entered, he saw many people picking out Immortal Origin Stone inside.


    When the shop assistant saw Fang Jue approaching, his eyes lit up and he came forward, "Young Master Fang, how many spirit stones are you nning to y with today?"


    "I only brought a hundred spirit stones. Do you have any new arrivals? The ones you have here don''t seem too good to me," Fang Jue asked while scrutinizing the Immortal Origin Stone in the shop.


    "Of course, Young Master Fang. Please wait a moment. I''ll fetch them for you right away." The shop assistant nodded repeatedly before hurrying off to the back.


    After the servant left, a cultivator approached Fang Jue and began to chat with him. In his conversation, the cultivator hinted to Fang Jue to help him. It seemed that before Fang Jue¡¯s arrival, he had already lost quite a few spirit stones, which left him feeling down.


    As they conversed, Fang Chen once again projected his divine soul, carefully observing the Immortal Origin Stone in the shop.


    <i>Are these stones really from the Immortal Realm?</i>


    Fang Chen doubted this in his heart, so he paid extra attention, hoping to discover something. However, because of that, he suddenly realized that his spiritual energy was depleting continuously. The Immortal Origin stone he was focusing on seemed to turn transparent, revealing everything inside.


    In the next moment, a surge of spiritual energy rushed toward him, as if it were a tide, instantly engulfing him. Then, the scene before him vanished, as if it were just an illusion.


    Fang Chen was somewhat perplexed at what had happened, but he continued to gaze at the Immortal Origin stone, only to discover a fist-sized spirit stone hidden inside.


    Its aura was extremely rich!


    "Could this be... a mid-grade spirit stone?" concluded Fang Chen.

 Chapter 331: Mid-Grade Spirit Stone

    <h4>Chapter 331: Mid-Grade Spirit Stone</h4>


    Fang Chen had been a cultivator for a little over a year now, and he had never even heard anyone talk about mid-grade spirit stones, let alone see one.


    The spirit stones that were widespread were the low-grade ones, and they were the ones used to settle transactions in markets.


    And even when it came to dial cultivation, Golden Core cultivators only used low-grade spirit stones.


    Initially, Fang Chen hadn¡¯t known much about mid-grade spirit stones, but he had been flipping through Mirror of the Universe a few days ago when he came across an introduction to them. That was when he learned that the difference between mid-grade and low-grade spirit stones wasn¡¯t merely about the amount of spiritual energy they contained. It could be said that they were entirely different cultivation resources!


    Mid-grade spirit stones contained denser and purer spiritual energy, providing a much stronger effect on cultivation level advancement than low-grade spirit stones. Sometimes, when Golden Core cultivators encountered a bottleneck in their cultivation, low-grade spirit stones would prove to be of no help at all, but when a mid-grade spirit stone was used instead, it could help them break past that bottleneck. Thus, mid-grade spirit stones were a very precious cultivation resource. There was almost no one who would exchange mid-grade spirit stones for low-grade ones. A single standard-sized mid-grade spirit stone could be worth hundreds or even thousands of low-grade spirit stones, depending on the circumstances.


    Seeing that Fang Chen had gone motionless, Fang Hao and the others immediately showed a look of schadenfreude.


    Fang Haoughed and said, "What¡¯s the use of a blind personing to the Immortal Origin District? What can he do? Listen to the sound of spirit stones tapping against one another?"


    Several juniorsughed along with him.


    The shop attendant was perplexed; clearly, Fang Chen and Fang Hao hade together, but they didn¡¯t seem to be on good terms.


    When Fang Jue, who had been talking to his acquaintance, heard that, he frowned and turned to Fang Hao. "Fang Hao, what are you saying?¡±


    "Big Brother, I think it¡¯s better for him if he leaves. He''s just wasting his time here at Immortal Origin District," said Fang Hao.


    Fang Jue''s expression darkened. Just as he was about to speak, he noticed that Fang Chen had begun walking toward a piece of Immortal Origin Stone ced at the corner of the counter.


    This piece of Immortal Origin Stone seemed to have been left there for many years, as it was covered in ayer of dust.


    Fang Chen picked up the Immortal Origin Stone and gently tapped it a few times against his ear. Soon after, he asked, "How much for this piece of Immortal Origin Stone?"


    Everyone was stunned. Was he really identifying stones by sound? Did he think he was picking melons?


    "Heh, trying to act all mysterious..." muttered Fang Yun disdainfully.


    Fang Hao and the others exchanged looks before breaking intoughter.


    The shop attendant hurriedly stepped forward to help Fang Chen. "Young master, this piece of Immortal Origin Stone is priced at one low-grade spirit stone.¡±


    "I''ll take it," said Fang Chen, nodding lightly. He took out a spirit stone and handed it to the attendant.


    "Buying this piece of Immortal Origin Stone is purely a waste of spirit stones."


    "Its surfacecks any luster, and the spiritual energy it emits is intermittent. And look at those green veins; they''re not even pure, with ck mixed in the green."


    "He must be a newbie. He¡¯s spending a little money for fun."


    The other customers in the shop started to talk among themselves.


    Fang Jue walked to Fang Chen¡¯s side and looked at the Immortal Origin Stone in his hand, then smiled and said, "This piece of Immortal Origin Stone has been here for many years. Since it isn¡¯t very appealing, no one has been willing to buy it. But it¡¯s not expensive, just a single spirit stone, so it isn¡¯t a bad buy if it¡¯s just for fun.¡±


    The next moment, the attendant brought in new merchandise, and Fang Jue excused himself to study the new items with the other customers.


    "Senior Sister, I''ve already asked someone to help us investigate Senior Brother Liu¡¯s whereabouts, so don''t worry too much. It''s been a few months since west visited the Immortal Origin District, so let¡¯s have a little fun today."


    "I''ve told you several times that we shoulde to the Immortal Origin District less often; this ce is dangerous."


    "I''m just looking around. I won''t buy anything."


    When Fang Chen heard that familiar voice outside, he smiled lightly. Tucking away the Immortal Origin Stone, he walked out of the store.


    Fang Yun and Fang Hao had no good feelings toward Fang Chen to begin with, so when they noticed him leaving the store, they didn¡¯t bother telling him to stay. They didn¡¯t even inform Fang Jue, who was busy inspecting the new Immortal Origin stones, that Fang Chen was leaving.


    Xia Ji was squatting in front of a roadside stall outside, ying with a fist-sized Immortal Origin Stone in his hands.


    Wu Ruochou was standing by his side, looking somewhat helpless.


    ¡°Are you done yet? Are you going to buy it or not?! Stop touching it all around if you aren¡¯t going to buy it" yelled the stall owner harshly to Xia Ji.


    Xia Ji¡¯s brow furrowed slightly. "Is this how you do business?¡±


    The stall owner sneered. "I don''t want your business. Get lost."


    It suddenly crossed Xia Ji¡¯s mind that this stall owner was probably affiliated with the Jue Family.


    "Senior Sister, it seems Jue Wudi''sckeys are everywhere. Let''s look elsewhere," said Xia Ji with a smile, standing up.


    Wu Ruochou frowned, and she said to the stall owner, "Your mouth is quite dirty. Apologize to my junior brother right this instant."


    The stall owner was taken aback when he saw her all worked up. A little intimidated, he said, "This has nothing to do with you, Young Lady Wu. You''d best not step into this mire.¡±


    A cultivator at the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm like Wu Ruochou was not someone a small merchant could afford to offend.


    "Let''s just go, Senior Sister," said Xia Ji.


    Wu Ruochou''s voice was calm and steady as she stared the merchant in the eye. ¡°Apologize."


    Xia Ji sighed internally and turned to the stall owner. "Apologize already. Stop wasting my time.¡±


    The stall owner''s face turned ashen, and after a long silence, he reluctantly muttered, "Sorry."


    Wu Ruochou''s face eased.


    Just as the two were about to leave, they happened to notice Fang Chening over.


    "Fang Da, what brings you here?" asked Xia Ji in surprise.


    "I came with a few members of the Fang family to join the festivities. I overheard you two¡¯s voices so I came," said Fang Chen with a smile.


    It had been several days since Fang Chen hadst seen Xia Ji.


    After Xia Ji had consumed the ten Spirit Essence Pills he had bought, he jumped straight from the fourth stage of Qi Refining to the fifth stageju, and he wasn¡¯t even far from reaching the sixth stage too.


    "What a coincidence,¡± said Xia Ji with a chuckle. ¡°Well then. Let''s walk around Immortal Origin District together and see how our luck fares today.


    Wu Ruochu looked at Fang Chen. "You should give him some advice.... Immortal Origin District is a ce where people get scammed. Many cultivators have gone mad here after losing everything they own.¡±


    Fang Chen smiled. "Xia Ji doesn''t gamble; he just likes to join in on the excitement and spend a little money for fun. He wouldn¡¯t throw all his spirit stones away and go mad like those people."


    Xia Ji couldn''t help but cheer, "You¡¯re still the one who knows me best, Fang Da!¡±


    Wu Ruochou was momentarily taken aback, her expression turning somewhat peculiar.


    The three of them began to stroll through the area. Along the way, whenever they stopped, Fang Chen would project his soul to inspect the surrounding Immortal Origin Stones.


    Fang Chen discovered that whenever he concentrated fully, he could see through the Immortal Origin Stones and learn everything about them. The only downside was that it would cause him to exhaust a tenth of his soul energy, which meant that he could only inspect up to ten Immortal Origin Stones at maximum.


    Fang Chen couldn¡¯t recover his soul energy as fast as he could recover his spiritual energy, so he couldn¡¯t use this ability without restraint.


    Given that not every Immortal Origin Stone might be of sufficient value, he couldn''t inspect them however he liked.


    "Junior brother, you''ve already bought three Immortal Origin Stones and spent thirty low-grade spirit stones. Don''t buy any more of them,¡± Wu Ruochou said to Xia Ji, reminding him.


    Seeing thirty low-grade spirit stones go to waste was already a painful sight for her.


    Xia Ji quickly nodded in agreement. ¡°Alright, I won''t buy any more today."


    "Xia Ji, are you really so free that you can buy Immortal Origin Stones? Have you made up your mind to apologize to Brother Jue or not?" said a new voice.


    A group of young men had appeared next to the stall the three were standing at. The speaker was Lin Yu.


    "It''s you guys again. What a bunch of annoying flies," sighed Xia Ji in resignation. "Why don''t you just leave us alone?"


    The expressions of Lin Yu and the others changed slightly, showing a hint of anger.


    One of them nced at Fang Chen and whispered something to Lin Yu.


    Lin Yu''s eyes flickered with a trace of disdain as he focused on Xia Ji. "Since you like gambling on stones so much, how about betting with me? If you lose, you''ll have to kneel and kowtow all the way from here to the doorstep of the Jue family and apologize to Brother Jue."

 Chapter 332: Betting Xia Ji’s Legs

    <h4>Chapter 332: Betting Xia Ji¡¯s Legs</h4>


    Some of therger stores in the Immortal Origin District had elevated the business of Immortal Origin Stones from casual betting into a form of refined leisure. These businesses offered aprehensive range of services.


    And in one of the bigger stores close to Fang Chen andpany sat several figures. They were sipping on tea as they watched the scene unfolding below. Their location offered them a panoramic view of the street.


    "Young Lady Lingxing, do you think Xia Ji will ept Lin Yu''s bet?" asked a young man after taking a sip of his tea. His voice was seemingly teasing.


    "It doesn''t matter whether he epts or not. We were lucky to bump into him here, we can''t let him wander around so leisurely," responded Fang Lingxing softly. Her gaze oftennded on Wu Ruochou, her eyes carrying a slight chill.


    The young man sighed. "Jue Wudi is fortunate to have a woman like you doing things for him from behind the scenes. I''m envious.¡±


    Fang Lingxing''s expression darkened. ncing at him, she asked, "What do you mean by that?"


    "Just in envy, nothing more." The young manughed it off. "Speaking of which, what do you think about my earlier proposal? The quality of those Immortal Origin Stones is quite good. If we join forces to acquire them, we could at least double our investment at the trade conference."


    Fang Lingxing shook her head slightly. "My father is still considering it. You''re talking about a deal that involves tens of thousands of spirit stones; I can¡¯te to that decision on my own.¡±


    "Then it''s best if you make haste. If I don''t get a reply from you in a few days, I''ll have to seek a partnership with someone else," said the young man with a smile.


    The two of them shifted their gaze back to the stall in the street.


    Xia Ji''s eyes flickered slightly. "You want to have a bet with me? If I lose, I¡¯ll kowtow all the way to the doorstep of the Jue family? What if you lose?"


    Lin Yu sneered. "I won''t lose."


    Xia Ji was left speechless, and he stared at Lin Yu as if he was looking at an idiot. "If you want to have a bet, you must rify what¡¯s at stake on both sides. What do you mean by ''I won''t lose''? Are you trying to tell me that you''ve prepared something in advance? What, did you bring an Immortal Origin Stone with you that has something of high worth inside? Why would I make a bet with you if that¡¯s the case?¡±


    Wu Ruochou burst intoughter.


    Fang Chen showed a faint smile.


    Lin Yu''s face alternated between green and white. "Fine, if I lose, I''ll kowtow all the way to the Profound Void Temple and apologize to you!"


    "No.¡± Xia Ji shook his head slightly. ¡°Having Jue Wudi kowtow would be more appropriate. Who do you think you are?"


    Lin Yu finally caught on that Xia Ji was messing with him. He didn¡¯t seem to take the bet seriously.


    At that moment, a patrol from the Great Qian Guards was passing by, and he had heard what they were saying.


    ncing at them, the patrol coldly said, "No messing about in the Immortal Origin District.¡±


    Xia Ji smiled. He was about to signal for Fang Chen and Wu Ruochou to leave when Fang Chen spoke to Lin Yu.


    "I''ll ept your wager."


    Xia Ji''s eyes flickered slightly, and he immediately stopped Wu Ruochou from speaking.


    "<i>Just watch the show, Sister,</i>" said Xia Ji to Wu Ruochou through voice transmission.


    Wu Ruochou looked bewildered.


    Lin Yu¡¯s eyes wavered. "You? What are you waggering?"


    Lin Yu felt slightly wary of this new member of the Fang Family.


    "I¡¯m waggering your legs,¡± said Fang Chen with a smile. ¡°If I lose, Xia Ji breaks his legs; if you lose, I break yours.¡±


    The Great Qian Guard patrol, who had been about to continue roaming the area, stopped in their tracks.


    The nearby vendors also turned their attention toward them.


    Wu Ruochou was dumbfounded.


    Xia Ji nced down at his legs, then looked at Lin Yu and said, "Are you in or not? If you don¡¯t have the guts, then scram!"


    "Are you serious?" asked Lin Yu, his eyes lighting up. He was staring at Xia Ji¡¯s legs.


    "We have so many people watching. No one will be able to go back on their words,¡± added Fang Chen with a smile.


    "Alright, I''ll do it!" said Lin Yu, taking out an Immortal Origin Stone from his person. "I bought this Immortal Origin Stone for fifty spirit stones. The price of the Immortal Origin Stone you bring out cannot exceed fifty spirit stones too.¡±


    Xia Ji sneered. "How can we confirm how much you spent on that Immortal Origin Stone?"


    "By its size and appearance," retorted Lin Yu.


    The surrounding vendors approached to observe and evaluate Lin Yu''s Immortal Origin Stone. One of them said, ¡°The green veins on the stone are evenly distributed, which usually means that it¡¯s of good quality and that it has a high chance that it¡¯ll yield valuable items after it¡¯s cut out.¡±


    His words indirectly confirmed the legitimacy of Lin Yu¡¯s words.


    Lin Yu looked toward Fang Chen. "Where''s your Immortal Origin Stone? Or are you going to buy one right here?"


    Fang Chen thought for a moment and then took out that Immortal Origin Stone from his pocket. "I''ll use this."


    At first, everyone thought that the Stone Fang Chen had taken out was valuable, but after taking a few looks at it, some of the people in the crowd recognized the Stone.


    "Isn''t this that Immortal Origin Stone from the Fortune Pavilion? The one priced at one spirit stone?"


    "It had been on sale for many years."


    ¡°He¡¯s using that to bet?"


    The crowd whispered among themselves.


    Lin Yu, who was initially a little scared of Fang Chen, immediately burst intoughter. He even suspected that Fang Chen and Xia Ji might have had a falling out.


    Xia Ji inched a little closer to Fang Chen to examine the Immortal Origin Stone in his hand. After a brief look, his heart sank.


    "The surface is dull, the spiritual energy it emits is intermittent, and the green veins are already mixed with ck..." muttered Xia Ji to himself. "Isn''t this... junk?"


    Wu Ruochou suddenly spoke up. "We''re not doing it!"


    Lin Yu sneered. "Young Lady Wu, we have so many people watching. It¡¯s toote for you to back out now.¡±


    The people in the crowd chimed in with agreement, and even the nearby vendors said a few words. If one lost their reputation in the Immortal Origin District, it would be nearly impossible toe back and y with Immortal Origin Stones.


    "Fang Da, I don¡¯t remember offending you recently!" Xia Ji tugged at Fang Chen''s sleeve. "You can¡¯t do this to me!"


    "Don''t worry, I have a good feeling about this Immortal Origin Stone, I''ll win for sure," said Fang Chen, patting Xia Ji¡¯s shoulder.


    Watching from up above, Fang Lingxing smiled and said, "They took the bait. What are the odds of us winning with that Stone you gave him?"


    "We originally had only a fifty-fifty chance, but now it should be seventy-thirty. The Immortal Origin Stone in his hand is junk. Even if my Immortal Origin Stone doesn''t yield anything, it¡¯ll just be a tie," said the young man, looking at the Immortal Origin Stone in Fang Chen''s hand. "Now, I win as long as it produces anything that¡¯s worth a single low-grade spirit stone.¡±


    The young man looked at Fang Lingxing and asked, "Isn¡¯t he the one your family recognized recently? Is he trying to impress you?"


    Fang Lingxing pondered for a moment and shook her head slightly. "I''m not sure."


    The young man chuckled. "Xia Ji won''t be leaving with his legs intact today. I am assuming that matter ends with this, right?"


    Fang Lingxing''s lips curled slightly. "This is far from enough."


    <i>"Don''t offend women... It doesn¡¯t matter who you offend, but you better not offend women in the future!"</i> muttered the young man to himself. <i>"Indeed, it''s difficult to raise women and deal with petty people."</i>


    Fang Lingxing had heard his mutterings but she didn''t pay them much attention. She sipped her tea contentedly as she watched the show.


    After confirming multiple times that Fang Chen really wanted to use that Stone in his hand for the bet, Lin Yu couldn''t help but smile as he cut open his Immortal Origin Stone.

 Chapter 333: Hundred-Year Gold, Hundred-Year Ginseng

    <h4>Chapter 333: Hundred-Year Gold, Hundred-Year Ginseng</h4>


    "Sigh!"


    Fang Jue sighed heavily as he led everyone out of the Fortune Pavilion.


    <i>Another hundred spirit stones down the drain!</i>


    Fang Hao didn¡¯t look any better either, as he had lost the fifteen spirit stones he had been saving up.


    Except for Fang Yun, every single one of them had left a bit of their spirit stones behind in the Fortune Pavillion, so they were feeling especially under the weather right now.


    "You win some and lose some, Big Brother," Fang Yun consoled Fang Jue.


    Fang Jue nodded. "Don''t worry, I know. I just can¡¯t help but feel that the path of Immortal Origin Stones is really too profound and mysterious. Even if one studied for many years, one would probably still fail to truly grasp its essence.¡±


    Fang Jue stopped in his tracks. It had suddenly hit him that they were missing someone. He quickly looked around, asking, "Where''s Fang Chen?"


    "He just left,¡± said Fang Hao, sneering. ¡°Probably went to find a ce to secretly cut open that Immortal Origin Stone worth one spirit stone he bought."


    "Don''t worry about him. Let''s head back," said Fang Yun.


    Fang Hao suddenly pointed to a spot not too far ahead. "It''s quite lively over there. Looks like someone is having a bet!"


    Fang Jue''s eyes lit up. "Let''s go take a look."


    When the group came closer to the hustle and bustle, Fang Yun eximed in surprise, "Isn''t that Fang Chen? What is he doing here?"


    "I''ll go find out," said Fang Hao, leaving the others and squeezing into the crowd, jostling his way through.


    After a few moments, he squeezed right back and, with a smile on his face, he said, "Fang Chen is having a bet with someone. And the stakes are Xia Ji''s legs."


    Fang Yun nced at Lin Yu through the cracks in the crowd and said, "I know who that is. That person is called Lin Yu, a member of the Lin Family from the Eighteenth District. He¡¯s probably doing this because he wants to settle the score for Jue Wudi. They have a good rtionship."


    Fang Jue¡¯s face turned hesitant. "Our master is on good terms with Master Chanyuan..."


    Fang Yun seemed to have guessed his thoughts, as she immediately said, "Big Brother, we shouldn''t get involved. Xia Ji has been maligning Jue Wudi and smearing his reputation. If we tried to help, it would only make Jue Wudi think we are siding with Xia Ji. Besides, the situation with Fang Lingxing is also tricky."


    Fang Jue nodded slightly. Indeed, this matter was veryplicated, as it involved a wide range of issues. They¡¯d be inviting trouble if they tried to intervene.


    Fang Hao couldn''t help butugh out loud. "Fang Chen is betting against Lin Yu using the Immortal Origin Stone from the Fortune Pavilion. How amusing. That Immortal Origin Stone is only worth one spirit stone, yet he¡¯s betting against someone with it?"


    "He¡¯s cutting it open, he¡¯s cutting it open!"


    "It seems to be a spiritual material?!"


    "No, it''s a spiritual herb."


    As Lin Yu slowly cut open the Immortal Origin Stone in his hand, a reddish-gold metallic substance was revealed. However, the crowd soon discovered that the reddish-gold metallic substance had a spiritual herb growing on top of it.


    The roots of the spiritual herb were also reddish-gold, extending all the way through the substance. The herb had sporadic golden spots on its reddish-gold surface. Even though the golden color was not as rich, it was still visible.


    Little Sword¡¯s voice echoed in Fang Chen¡¯s mind. ¡°<i>Little Chen, this spiritual herb must be very tasty.</i>¡±


    It had clearly sensed how extraordinary what¡¯s inside the Stone was.


    Lin Yu seemed to turn a little nervous, and his hands became more and more careful as he slowly removed the residue from the roots. "It¡¯s a...."


    It had taken him nearly the time it would take to drink a cup of tea topletely break down the Immortal Origin Stone and extract what was inside.


    "What kind of spiritual material is this? Why is there a spiritual herb growing on it?"


    "The spiritual power is very rich. This isn¡¯t an ordinary item. Its value cannot be low."


    "I didn''t expect that. I think this Immortal Origin Stone will rank amongst the top in the Immortal Origin Stone District!"


    Everyone was very excited to see what it was, whether they were the vendors or the district visitors.


    Being able to witness the birth of a top-ranked Immortal Origin Stone was a considerable topic of discussion.


    Xia Ji''s face turned ashen. "This is bad.¡±


    Wu Ruochou angrily looked at Fang Chen.


    On Fang Lingxing''s side, the young man''s expression became slightly more solemn when he saw Lin Yu take out what was inside the Immortal Origin Stone.


    "This is a Hundred-Year Gold, a high-grade, yellow-rank spiritual material! A tael is worth a hundred low-grade spirit stones. This piece has to weigh at least five taels from the looks of it. What¡¯s growing on the Hundred-Year Gold is a Hundred-Year Ginseng. It can prolong life by three to five years! Selling it for eight to nine hundred spirit stones wouldn¡¯t be an issue at all.¡±


    Fang Lingxing stood up abruptly, her expression serious. "So, the value of this Immortal Origin Stone is...."


    "Yes, it''s around 1,500 low-grade spirit stones. You''ve struck it rich." The young man sighed with emotion. "50 spirit stones to 1,500... I haven¡¯t seen such an amazing oue in many years!¡±


    Fang Lingxing¡¯s face was blossoming with excitement. She didn¡¯t care about the bet anymore. What mattered was that she had made a killing!


    On the other side, Fang Yun was surprised and asked Fang Jue, "Big Brother, what¡¯s that?"


    "I don''t know, but its value won''t be low. Fang Chen has lost," said Fang Jue, his eyes serious.


    "It''s only right that he lost."


    Fang Hao and others gloated, then their eyes kept sizing up the Hundred-Year Gold and Hundred-Year Ginseng, full of envy.


    Lin Yu suddenly looked over at the crowd. "Do any of the seniors know what this is?"


    An old man slowly stepped out of the crowd. "If I''m not mistaken, this is a Hundred-Year Gold, a high-grade, yellow-rank spiritual material worth a hundred low-grade spirit stones per tael. And this ginseng growing on the Hundred-Year Gold is a Hundred-Year Ginseng, it can prolong life. Selling it for seven to eight hundred low-grade spirit stones should not be a problem,¡± said the old man to Lin Yu with a smile, ¡°Young man, I¡¯ll offer you 1,300 low-grade spirit stones for it, can you sell it to me?¡±


    "1,300 low-grade spirit stones!?"


    "Wow!"


    Everyone was stunned. No one expected that the Immortal Origin Stone Lin Yue had opened would reveal something this valuable!


    "This is Manager Yu from the Clear Wind Pavilion. His eyes are sharp; he shouldn''t be mistaken."


    "Young man, you''ve made a fortune."


    The crowd was both envious and jealous.


    Lin Yu sighed inwardly. He was well aware that this fortune wasn¡¯t his because the Immortal Origin Stone hadn¡¯t belonged to him. He was just acting on behalf of someone else.


    1,300 low-grade spirit stones....


    He really wanted them!


    "Elder, I won¡¯t be selling this item for now.¡±


    Lin Yu refused the offer from Manager Yu before turning to Fang Chen.


    "It''s time for you to fulfill your end of the bet. Will you be the one breaking Xia Ji¡¯s legs, or should I do the honors?¡± asked Lin Yu.


    Xia Ji sneered. "I''ll do it myself!"


    Fang Chen waved his hand. "I haven''t even opened my Immortal Origin Stone yet, why are you giving up?"


    Xia Ji¡¯s face was wreathed in helplessness. "Fang Da, your Immortal Origin Stone, it¡¯s....¡±


    He had been fooled this time around!


    Lin Yu couldn''t help butugh out loud. "I¡¯ve heard someone say that you¡¯ve bought this Immortal Origin Stone for one spirit stone. You¡¯re betting against me using that? Will it bring out something that¡¯s worth 1,300 spirit stones?¡±


    "You won''t know until we open it," said Fang Chen with a faint smile.


    Lin Yu nodded with a smile. "Then go ahead and open it. It won''t make a difference to break Xia Ji''s legs a littleter."


    Fang Chen took out Little Sword and began to cut the Stone.


    Everyone couldn¡¯t help but shake their heads when they saw what he was doing.


    Fang Yun frowned. "Big Brother, if this gets out, Fang Chen will be humiliating us."


    Fang Jue sighed. "The three families must be united no matter what." With that, he walked straight through the crowd, waving his hand to stop Fang Chen from opening the Stone.


    Fang Jue looked at Lin Yu and said in a deep voice, "This bet doesn''t count. This is Fang Chen¡¯s first time ying with Immortal Origin Stones. If you want to have a bet with someone, have a bet with me!"

 Chapter 334 Not Fated for It, Senior

    <h4>Chapter 334 Not Fated for It, Senior</h4>


    Fang Chen was taken aback. He hadn¡¯t expected that Fang Jue would step in. <i>It seems that Fang Ao¡¯s senior disciple is a decent person. </i>


    Fang Yun and the others were first stunned, and then they turned very anxious. They didn¡¯t expect Fang Jue to suddenly intervene like this. If they offended Jue Wudi because of this, they¡¯d be essentially opening up a can of worms!


    "Isn''t this Fang Jue, from the Fang Family''s third branch?"


    "So one of the bettors is from the Fang Family?¡±


    Whispers circted among the crowd.


    Fang Jue was quite well-known in the Immortal Origin District¡ªat least, he was well-known amongst the Qi Refining Realm cultivators.


    Lin Yu''s expression changed slightly, forcing a smile. "It¡¯s you, Brother Fang Jue."


    "No need for unnecessary words. I¡¯ll be the one betting with you, but you''ll have to find another Immortal Origin," said Fang Jue calmly.


    Lin Yu and the others'' expressions shifted erratically. Redoing the bet? That didn¡¯t make sense!


    "Brother Fang Jue, this is the bet between me and him. There''s no need for us to redo it. Even if we were to start another bet, this bet should be fulfilled first,¡± mused Lin Yu.


    Fang Jue sneered. "If I say it doesn''t count, then it doesn''t. Why bully a beginner? Fang Chen has just arrived and he doesn¡¯t know much. This was an unfair bet right from the very start."


    The dominance of a Fang Family member was on full disy right now. He didn''t even put the opinions of Lin Yu and the others in his eyes.


    Lin Yu and the others were starting to hesitate. They didn''t have the courage to stand up to the chief disciple of the Fang Family''s third branch. But if they backed down now, it wouldn''t sit well with Fang Lingxing''s side either.


    Lin Yu had to shift his gaze to a nearby location, where Fang Lingxing and the young man were observing the situation.


    Lin Yu saw Fang Lingxing nodding to him.


    Lin Yu gained a bout of newfound confidence when he saw that light bob.


    Facing Fang Jue, Lin Yu stood his ground. "Brother Fang Jue, everyone here witnessed the bet between me and Fang Chen, even the nearby Great Qian Guard patrol was here from the start. Members of the Fang Family wouldn¡¯t back out on a bet, right? If news spread that you did, it wouldn¡¯t be very good for you, would it?¡±


    Fang Jue frowned. He didn¡¯t understand where Lin Yu found the guts to speak to him like this. Was it just because of Jue Wudi?


    On the other side, the young man smiled at Fang Lingxing, "Is that Fang Jue? He doesn¡¯t seem to take you very seriously."


    "Fang Jue''s master, Fang Ao, is in charge of the third branch, and he¡¯s friends with Master Chanyuan," said Fang Lingxing calmly. "Fang Jue can¡¯t do much even if he wants to help.¡±


    And it didn¡¯t take long for Fang Lingxing''s words to be confirmed, as Fang Jue fell silent for a long time before turning to Fang Chen, looking helpless. "You¡¯re only a beginner, why are you betting with people? You were too careless."


    Fang Chen smiled. "I have a good feeling about this Immortal Origin; I might not lose.¡±


    Fang Hao couldn¡¯t contain himself and cursed, ¡°How can a blind man like you judge an Immortal Origin Stone even? Are you picking Stones based on the sound they make or what? If you really that skilled, then I, Fang Hao, will avoid you in the future whenever I see you in the third branch.¡±


    "Everyone, let''s not let your grudges with him affect the bet between him and me." Lin Yu smiled and urged Fang Chen, "Hurry up and open your Immortal Origin so we can get this over with!¡±


    Fang Chen lightly scraped the surface of the Immortal Origin with Little Sword, shaving off the hard surface instantly. Suddenly, one corner of the mid-grade spirit stone was exposed to the air.


    A burst of spiritual energy bellowed out!


    Fang Jue was stunned. "Huh!? There''s something inside?"


    Fang Hao andpany were both surprised and skeptical.


    Could this trashy Immortal Origin Stone actually have anything good inside?


    Judging from the richness of the spiritual energy that was wafting off, the item didn¡¯t seem ordinary!


    Xia Ji¡¯s spirits were immediately lifted, and he said to Wu Ruchou through transmission, "<i>I knew Brother Fang wouldn''t harm me. Sister, we''re going to be alright!</i>"


    Wu Ruochou, who had been displeased with Fang Chen for using Xia Ji as a stake, now turned doubtful.


    "No way, such rich spiritual energy? The Immortal Origin Stone from the Fortune Pavilion that hadn¡¯t been sold for many years actually has something valuable inside?¡±


    "Impossible, judging from its appearance, it¡¯s clearly trash? How could it have anything good?"


    Everyone looked at each other in surprise.


    Lin Yu was slightly surprised but he quickly calmed down. Even if there was something inside, it couldn¡¯t possibly be worth more than the Hundred-Year Gold and Hundred-Year Ginseng.


    In the distance, the young man''s expression changed slightly. "Today''s session is much more interesting than I imagined."


    Fang Lingxing nodded. "Indeed, most Stone bets end up in a tie, with both Stones not having anything inside. I didn''t expect that both these Immortal Origins Stones would actually produce something.¡±


    "But it doesn''t matter,¡± said the young man with a faint smile. ¡°Your Immortal Origin Stone is clearly more valuable.¡±


    The Immortal Origin District has been around for hundreds of years, and the value of a single Immortal Origin Stone had never exceeded ten thousand spirit stones, which was a record that had remained unbroken for many, many years. There were Immortal Origin Stones worth thousands of spirit stones, but those were few and far between.


    "Huh?" uttered the shopkeeper of the Clear Wind Pavilion softly.


    Quickly, he walked up to Fang Chen and carefully examined the Immortal Origin Stone in Fang Chen¡¯s hand before saying, "You don¡¯t have to open it all the way, young man. How about I buy it from you for five hundred spirit stones?"


    Everyone was stunned.


    "Five hundred?"


    Fang Jue stared at the Immortal Origin in Fang Chen''s hand, his expression changing constantly. Fang Yun and the others were silent for a while before finally squeezing out a few words: "This kid is really lucky."


    Fang Jue had been ying with Immortal Origins for several years now, but he had never taken out anything worth more than two hundred low-grade spirit stones. On Fang Chen¡¯s first attempt, he bought something worth five hundred low-grade spirit stones with one low-grade spirit stone. This was simply incredible luck!


    Lin Yu smirked. <i>Fang Chen lost. Five hundred low-grade spirit stones are far from enough topare with the value of my Immortal Origin.</i>


    Chuckling, Lin Yu said, ¡°Didn¡¯t expect for you to actually have a bit of skill. Still, what a shame. You¡¯re still going to lose.¡±


    Lin Yu couldn¡¯t help but feel envious as he had said that; Fang Chen¡¯s Immortal Origin Stone belonged to him, while the one he had opened didn¡¯t belong to himself.


    "I haven¡¯t opened it fully yet. Why are you in such a rush?" Fang Chen smiled, then turned to Manager Yu and asked, "Senior, do you recognize this item?"


    "I... I don''t," said the shopkeeper, shaking his head. "I just feel that it has rich spiritual energy, so it should be of considerable value. Can you sell it to me, young man?"


    "Five hundred low-grade spirit stones is far from enough. If you don¡¯t recognize it, senior, then I¡¯m afraid someone knowledgeable will surely step in to buy it." Fang Chen smiled and said, "Looks like this mid-grade spirit stone is out of your reach."


    Everyone was instantly shocked.


    "What!? A mid-grade spirit stone!?"


    Far away, Fang Lingxing and the young man rose to their feet in a hurry, looking at each other in shock. Both could see the astonishment in each other¡¯s eyes.


    A mid-grade spirit stone?! They had never seen a mid-grade spirit stone in their entire life. Perhaps only those Golden Core Realm cultivators in Great Qian would¡¯ve had the chance to see a treasure like that!


    The shopkeeper''s face stiffened. <i>How does he know what a mid-grade spirit stone is?! </i>


    He had already known what it was long ago, but he wanted to take advantage of Fang Chen and buy it from him at a low price. But now, it seemed that his chance had slipped away!

 Chapter 335: Incredibly Valuable!

    <h4>Chapter 335: Incredibly Valuable!</h4>


    "Could it be? Is this really the legendary mid-grade spirit stone?"


    "It is rumored that the benefits a mid-grade spirit stone can bring to one¡¯s cultivation far exceed what a low-grade spirit stone can. It can even help in breaking past bottlenecks!"


    "Even in fourth-tier empires, mid-grade spirit stones are extremely rare!"


    "Only certain powerful experts in third-tier empires would use mid-grade spirit stones for their cultivation...."


    "If this is really a mid-grade spirit stone, then it''s priceless!"


    "I never expected that this junk Immortal Origin Stone could have such a treasure inside. What a loss! I almost bought it once!"


    The crowd was both shocked and regretful. Some people had already begun sneaking off to the Fortune Pavilion.


    Even the servants of the Fortune Pavilion came to witness themotion.


    When they saw that the Immortal Origin Sold that they had kept for many years had produced such a treasure, their expressions turned odd.


    In the crowd, someone quietly took out a transmission talisman.


    Manager Yu bit his lip and whispered, "Young man, how about this? I''ll buy this spirit stone from you for 1,500 low-grade spirit stones!


    "You used up your chance earlier. I won''t be selling it to you," replied Fang Chen lightly before he continued to scrap away the surface of the Immortal Origin Stone in his hand.


    Manager Yu''s face turned slightly pale. He was really regretting what he just did. He would¡¯ve outright offered a high price from the beginning if he knew it would be like this. The mid-grade spirit stone could¡¯ve been his!


    Lin Yu and others were stunned, their eyes filled with disbelief.


    Suddenly, a thought suddenly struck someone, causing their expression to turn strange. "If that¡¯s really a mid-grade spirit stone, then Brother Lin''s legs....¡±


    Fang Hao''s eyes nked out. "This guy is way too lucky, right?!"


    This was Fang Chen¡¯s first time ever visiting the Immortal Origin District and yet he managed to buy a Stone for one low-grade spirit that had yielded him a mid-grade spirit stone!


    <i>What kind of unbelievable luck was this?!</i>


    Finally, after some time, the Immortal Origin Stone waspletely opened, and out came a fist-sized, mid-grade spirit stone.


    Rich spiritual energy began to spread into the air. Fang Chen softly enveloped the escaping spiritual energy with his own spiritual energy to prevent it from leaking.


    "Give me that,¡± a voice rang out.


    Everyone looked up, only to that a woman had appeared in the crowd. The woman¡¯s eyes were cold.


    Fang Jue and others were shocked. "Fang Lingxing?"


    When Lin Yu heard Fang Lingxing, he turned uneasy.


    "She''s here too?" mumbled Wu Ruochou, frowning. ncing at Lin Yu, Wu Ruochou suddenly understood everything, and it caused her face to darken.


    Xia Ji looked at Fang Lingxing indifferently, but Fang Chen knew that Xia Ji¡¯s heart was full of murderous intent toward this woman.


    "Name your price,¡± said Fang Chen lightly.


    "Two thousand low-grade spirit stones," said Fang Lingxing.


    Lin Yu''s face turned pale, and he suddenly swayed from fear. "Young Lady Fang, I¡ª"


    Fang Lingxing shot him a disdainful look, which caused Lin Yu to cower back into silence.


    Lin Yu understood that his legs were definitely going to be broken today, and if he dared to say anything else, it might not just be his legs that would be broken...


    Thinking of this, Lin Yu''s face turned extremely pale, and regret filled his heart.


    He wouldn¡¯t have gotten himself involved in any of this if he knew that it was going to turn out like this. Now, instead of gaining favor, he might end up losing both legs. He would need to spend half a month in bed at the very least....


    "Nonsense. That¡¯s too low." Fang Chen shook his head. "I won''t sell it for that price."


    "Fang Jue, you persuade him. This price is already very reasonable. Even if it''s more expensive, he won''t be able to sell it," said Fang Lingxing lightly to Fang Jue.


    Fang Jue revealed a strange look. He nced at Fang Chen, then at Fang Lingxing, and finally shook his head. "It''s Fang Chen''s treasure. How much he wants to sell it for is his business. I won''t interfere."


    Fang Lingxing frowned slightly.


    At this moment, the young man beside her cleared his throat and smiled at Fang Chen. "Friend, sell it to me. I''ll offer three thousand low-grade spirit stones."


    "<i>Gasp...</i>"


    Three thousand low-grade spirit stones!?


    Everyone gasped in shock, their eyes burning with jealousy.


    Three thousand low-grade spirit stones couldpletely alter the fate of a cultivator.


    Even those with mediocre talent could use it to reach the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm, and even have the possibility of breaking into the Foundation Building Realm!


    Suddenly, a figure rushed over andnded in front of everyone. "What do you youngsters need a mid-grade spirit stone for?"


    When Fang Lingxing and the others saw who the person who just arrived was, they revealed faces full of shock.


    "We pay respects to Senior Jue!"


    The neer was dressed in a green robe. He had a hooked nose, a dark gaze, and a mysterious aura that gave the impression of profound depth.


    He was the Golden Core Realm expert of the Jue family!


    "The Jue Family¡¯s Golden Core Realm expert hase!" eximed one of the people who had recognized the man.


    What!? Golden Core Realm!?


    All the cultivators in the Immortal Origin District revealed looks of shock and hurriedly paid their respects.


    The Golden Core Realm expert from the Jue Family smiled, his gaze falling on the mid-grade spirit stone in Fang Chen''s hand. There was a hint of greed in his eyes as he muttered, "Good stuff, this mid-grade spirit stone is rich in spiritual energy. I reckon it¡¯s well worth five thousand low-grade spirit stones. Sell it to me."


    Five thousand....


    Everyone felt their mouths dry. This was an unimaginable amount to them. What a huge sum that was!


    "Five thousand? Are you trying to scam the child?"


    Another figure had appeared. He had white hair and a beard, and he carried a wine gourd around his waist. His breath reeked with the smell of alcohol.


    Fang Lingxing and the others were startled again, and they quickly bowed and saluted, showing great deference. "Elder!"


    This was their Fang Family¡¯s Golden Core Realm cultivator!


    The Golden Core Realm expert from the Fang Family chuckled. "You''re here too? Don''t lose yourself when ying with treasures. Don¡¯t get addicted to buying Immortal Origin Stones!¡±


    The Golden Core Realm expert from the Jue Family squinted slightly. "What do you mean? Are you saying my offer is bad?"


    The Golden Core Realm expert from the Fang Familyughed heartily and said, "Don¡¯t act stupid. This is a chunk of mid-grade spirit stone, if cut ording to the standard specifications of a spirit stone, it can be split into fifty pieces! Fifty mid-grade spirit stones, and you''re offering five thousand? Stop pretending, my Fang Family is setting the price at ten thousand!"


    The Golden Core Realm expert from the Jue Family''s expression changed continuously.


    <i>Ten thousand low-grade spirit stones?!</i>


    Everyone was shocked into numbness, and they stared at Fang Chen with faces full of envy and jealousy.


    Many were fantasizing about what it would be like if the Immortal Origin Stone had been theirs. Even the manager of the Fortune Pavilion ran over to take a look. He was nearly breathless when he heard the price. They had actually left such a priceless Immortal Origin lying around in their hall for several years!


    Fang Chen¡¯s heart was stirred a little. <i>Ten thousand low-grade spirit stones....</i>


    He never expected the price to be so high.


    He¡¯d be able to buy a peak-grade, yellow-rank treasure with these ten thousand low-grade spirit stones!


    The foundations of the Great Qian¡¯s Fang Family were incredibly strong!


    Before everyone could recover from their shock, several intimidating figures rushed over. However, when these figures heard the price offered by the Fang Family¡¯s ancestor, they stopped right in their tracks, hesitating. In the end, they chose to observe from a distance.


    "Fang Chen, this is our family¡¯s ancestor! Selling the mid-grade spirit stone chunk to him is absolutely the right choice!"


    Fang Jue, who had been unwilling to try and persuade Fang Chen earlier, was now urging him to sell it to the ancestor. His eyes were signaling Fang Chen nonstop.

 Chapter 336: A Gentlemans Revenge Should Be Taken Immediately

    <h4>Chapter 336: A Gentleman''s Revenge Should Be Taken Immediately</h4>


    Fang Chen naturally recognized the Golden Core Realm cultivator, having met him at the Profound Void Temple, though this was thetter¡¯s first time seeing him.


    The Fang Family¡¯s Golden Core Realm cultivator was surprised. "What? This kid is from our family?"


    The Jue n''s Golden Core Realm cultivator''s face immediately darkened. If the person who cracked open the Immortal Origin Stone was from the Fang Family, then he most certainly wouldn¡¯t be able to get his hands on the mid-grade spirit stone.


    Fang Jue hurriedly exined, "Elder, Fang Chen is a junior from a side branch who has just recently returned to our family. I brought him out to the Immortal Origin District with me today.¡±


    "Hahaha, good, good!" The Fang n ancestorughed heartily and then turned to Fang Chen, saying, "Youngster, since we are family, let''s not waste words. I''ll take this mid-grade spirit stone for ten thousand low-grade spirit stones."


    "Then I¡¯ll sell it to you, Elder." Fang Chen nodded, handing the mid-grade spirit stone to the Fang Family ancestor.


    The Fang Family ancestor was taken aback at how readily Fang Chen had proffered it to him, so he couldn¡¯t help but jest, "You''re giving it to me just like that? Aren''t you afraid I won''t give you the low-grade spirit stones?"


    Fang Chen smiled lightly. "With my cultivation, how can I stop you from taking it even if you wanted to, Elder?¡±


    "That''s interesting." The Fang n ancestor chuckled. "Ten thousand low-grade spirit stones isn¡¯t a small sum. I was initially worried that you wouldn¡¯t want to wait for me for a few days so I could prepare them, but it doesn¡¯t seem like that will be a problem. I''ll prepare them and personally deliver them to you in three days."


    With that said, the ancestor intended to leave, but he suddenly turned back to Fang Chen, his brow slightly furrowed. "What''s wrong with your eyes? Open them and let me take a look."


    Fang Chen thought about it for a moment before slowly opening his eyes.


    For the first time, his gray-white pupils were revealed to everyone present.


    For some reason, when everyone saw these pupils, a sense of unease arose in their hearts. Only Xia Ji¡¯s expression loosened up.


    He knew how Fang Chen became blind and how difficult Fang Chen''s life was during those years.


    Fortunately, hardship has turned into happiness, and everything was developing in a positive direction!


    The Fang Family ancestor sneered after just a look. "This injury... the one who blinded you deliberately targeted your eyes. Tell me who it was and I¡¯ll take care of it!"


    Fang Chen was taken aback. Was he supposed to tell the Fang Family ancestor that he had gone blind because he saw the fairy in the zing sun?


    It looked like the family ancestor wanted to help him seek revenge, but still, even if he was a Golden Core Realm expert, there was still a huge chasm between him and that fairy.


    "The one who injured me has already died by my sword," said Fang Chen softly.


    "Good. It''s best to take revenge with your own hands," the Fang Family ancestor chuckled. "You''ve just arrived at the family, so there may be a few things that you don¡¯t understand. Let me tell you one thing: a gentleman''s revenge is never toote. Remember this."


    With that, the Fang Family ancestorughed heartily before disappearing into a gust of wind in front of everyone¡¯s eyes.


    Fang Jue and the others smiled bitterly.


    Fang Jue quickly transmitted to Fang Chen, "<i>The Elder¡¯s temperament is quite quirky. Just listen to what he says....</i>"


    After the Fang Family ancestor left, the Jue Family ancestor snorted coldly before turning to leave as well.


    The other Golden Core Realm cultivators around didn''t have the confidence topete with the Fang Family ancestor for the mid-grade spirit stone, so they dispersed one after another.


    Finally, after they all left, the stifling atmosphere that had been prevalent in the district was lifted, and everyone was able to breathe a sigh of relief once more.


    ¡°We should leave too,¡± said Fang Lingxing, coldly ncing at Wu Ruochou and Xia Ji. She then looked at Fang Chen, Fang Jue, and the others. After a moment, she beckoned to the young man beside her and turned to leave.


    "Friend, if youe to the Immortal Origin District next time, remember to visit the Jade River Pavilion. I''ll be there to wee you,¡± said the young man, leaving Fang Chen a friendly remake before turning to leave with Fang Lingxing.


    "So he''s the young master of the Jade River Pavilion. No wonder he looked familiar."


    "The Jade River Pavilion is one of the three major Immortal Origin businesses in the Immortal Origin District."


    The eyes of the crowd shifted slightly.


    Was thing young master trying to get close to Fang Chen because he noticed something about him?


    As this thought arose, the way people looked at Fang Chen turned a little wondering.


    Suddenly, everyone heard Xia Ji¡¯s heartyugh, snapping them out of their reverie.


    "<i>Haha! </i>Lin Yu, do you want to break your legs yourself, or should I do it for you?"


    The bet was settled, and now it was time to fulfill it.


    Before Lin Yu could speak, Little Sword turned into a sh of lightning and directly shattered Lin Yu''s kneecaps.


    Screaming in pain, Lin Yu fell to the ground. The young men and women around him quickly squatted down to check on his injuries.


    The guards of the Great Qian who witnessed this scene exchanged nces. They gave Fang Chen one final look before leaving to continue patrolling.


    Regardless of whether the two had made a bet, just the fact that the Golden Core Realm cultivator from the Fang Family had made an appearance was enough to make them turn a blind eye to whatever was happening.


    Lin Yu''s face had turned deathly pale, and he lowered his head as he sat on the floor in pain, his eyes full of deep-seated hatred.


    He felt hateful toward Xia Ji and Fang Chen. And he deeply resented Fang Lingxing for what she did to him. She had used him before throwing him to the dogs!


    After a few breaths, the crowd suddenly parted, revealing a middle-aged man apanied by a group of attendants.


    "Dad..." Lin Yu was surprised. "Why are you here?"


    The middle-aged man stooped down to check on his son¡¯s injuries. "Your bones have been shattered, but it''s not a big deal. Rest for ten to fifteen days and you''ll be fine.¡±


    After saying that, he ignored Lin Yu and nced over at Fang Chen and the rest, smiled, and said, "I¡¯ll be taking my child with me if there¡¯s nothing else?¡±


    "Please go ahead," replied Fang Chen lightly.


    The middle-aged man ordered his subordinates to take Lin Yu away. As they walked out of the Immortal Origin District, he suddenly stopped and turned to look in Fang Chen''s direction.


    After a long gaze thatsted several breaths, he turned and left with his men.


    "<i>That was the head of the Lin Family</i>," Xia Ji transmitted to Fang Chen while looking at the departing figures. "Be more careful from now on. Although he''s only at the Foundation Building Realm, I''ve heard that his methods aren¡¯t simple."


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "No problem."


    The head of the Lin family should be at the mid-stage of the Foundation Building Realm, which definitely wasn¡¯t weak; however, in Fang Chen''s eyes, such cultivation meant that he was only a target for sword practice.


    Seeing more and more people gathering around, Fang Jue couldn''t help but say, "Fang Chen, should we leave? It doesn¡¯t seem like we should continue to wander around today.¡±


    "Fang Da, there¡¯s no need to wait for us. You can head back first. My sister and I are going back to the Profound Void Temple," said Xia Ji. "I heard that there will be a minorpetition among the three branches tomorrow. We wille to join the fun."


    Fang Chen smiled and nodded. "Okay."


    Fang Hao''s expression changed slightly when he heard about thepetition, and he immediately avoided making eye contact with Fang Chen after recalling what he had just said.


    Upon returning to the Fang family''s residence, everyone remained silent except for Fang Jue, who was very interested in the Immortal Origin Fang Chen had cracked open, and he repeatedly and excitedly kept talking about today¡¯s events.


    "Fang Chen, your achievement will be recorded in the history of the Immortal Origin District. It''s unlikely that anyone will surpass it for one or two hundred years. You¡¯ll be famous in the Immortal Origin District," said Fang Jue.


    Fang Chen smiled and said, "It''s just good luck.¡±


    "Luck is also a kind of strength," said Fang Jue, chuckling. "I wish I had your luck, mine always falls short." He paused for a moment then changed the subject. "About what Fang Hao said to you... I apologize on his behalf. Can you overlook it? After all, the three branches are not big, and if he keeps avoiding you... it¡¯ll be very troublesome for him."


    "Elder Brother, please don''t plead for me. I will do what I said," said Fang Hao, unable to help himself.


    Fang Chen smiled. "I''ll take your word for it."


    Fang Jue felt relieved and smiled warmly, patting Fang Chen''s shoulder. "That''s how it should be. The descendants of our three branches should support each other."


    Both of them seemed to not take Fang Hao too seriously.


    Fang Hao couldn''t help but sigh when he saw that, and his resistance and dissatisfaction toward Fang Chen unconsciously faded a little.

 Chapter 337: Parasites

    <h4>Chapter 337: Parasites</h4>


    "Young Master, you''re back," greeted Li Cang with a bow in front of the cave-dwelling inside the courtyard.


    Looking at Li Cang, Fang Chen smiled and remarked, "Your martial cultivation has improved.¡±


    Li Cang was secretly shocked. His young master had such keen perception despite being blind, he didn¡¯t expect that.


    "I was able to buy Qi Condensing Pills thanks to the spirit stones you¡¯ve bestowed me, Young Master. They helped me improve my martial cultivation a lot," replied Li Cang respectfully.


    Fang Chen nodded lightly.


    After returning to his quiet room, his divine soul left his body and returned to the Immortal Origin District. It went straight to the Jade River Pavilion.


    The young man Fan Chen had seen earlier might¡¯ve seemed only at the Qi Refining Realm on the surface, but he was actually at the Foundation Building Realm. He had a treasure that hid his aura so well that even Golden Core Realm experts might find it difficult to see through it. If it weren''t for Fang Chen''s extraordinary divine soul, he wouldn''t have been able to detect it.


    Since this person was masking his cultivation, then he had to have a hidden agenda.


    Inside the Jade River Pavilion, the young man was standing quietly in front of a row of Immortal Origin Stones. There were several young attendats standing behind him.


    "Young Master, the Immortal Origins brought this time are of excellent quality. They will surely fetch a good price," said one of the young servants, chuckling softly.


    The young master smiled. "Remember, the price at which Immortal Origins can be sold depends not only on their quality but also on the stories behind them. This is one of the reasons our Jade River Pavilion''s business has always been prosperous. Think carefully. I want you to spin a nice tale for these Immortal Origin Stones.¡±


    The young servants nodded immediately, their minds already starting to concoct stories.


    Fang Chen couldn''t help but smile, then he focused and appraised one of the Immortal Origins. The feeling he had felt before surged again, and as a tenth of his soul energy was consumed, the Immortal Origin Stone in front of him turned transparent. However, he didn¡¯t witness any phenomena. The Immortal Origin Stone was empty.


    It was then that a servant came slowly and bowed the young man, then said, "Young Master, Lord Jue has arrived.¡±


    The young man nodded lightly. "Please escort him to the tea room.¡±


    Shortly after, the young man arrived at a tea room. When Jue Wudi spotted him, he raised his eyelids slightly and said, "I heard that someone opened a mid-grade spirit stone in the district?"


    "That''s right," said the young man, sitting down opposite to Jue Wudi, smiling lightly.


    Jue Wudi smiled. "It''s really a stroke of luck."


    The young man couldn''t help butugh. "It indeed is luck. He opened up an Immortal Origin Stone worth a single low-grade spirit stone to get it. That Immortal Origin hadn¡¯t been sold for several years. Who would¡¯ve thought that it held a mid-grade spirit stone.¡±


    The two talked for a while, and then Jue Wudi suddenly said, "I''ve been receiving fewer pillstely. I need a lot of pills to advance to the mid-stage of Foundation Building Realm."


    "You know that Blood Spirit Pills are not easy to refine. If you want more pills, you need to have remarkable achievements," said the young man lightly.


    Fang Chen¡¯s eyes turned cold when he heard their conversation.


    These guys were cultivators of the Spirit Blood Sect!


    Jue Wudi sneered and said, "My achievements are not enough? Who caused the war between Grand Qian and Grand Wei? In that battle, thirty million mortals died, and we refined a total of three hundred Blood Spirit Pills because of it.¡±


    ¡°That was why I gave you twenty Blood Spirit Pills back then! That was how you made rapid progress and became the most eye-catching genius of the Jue Family," said the young man. "The Spirit Blood Sect has never treated you unfairly. You know very well what kind of talent you had and what kind of position you held in the Jue Family before you joined the sect.¡±


    Jue Wudi frowned. "Tell me, what do I need to do in order to get more Blood Spirit Pills?"


    "In two and half months, the trade conference will begin, and both the imperial family as well as the Dongfang n, which is the strongest family of Grand Wei, will definitely be attending. I want you to kill the young master of the Dongfang n. Once that happens, a massive war between these empires is inevitable. At least hundreds of millions will die before the matteres to rest,¡± said the young man with half a smile.


    Jue Wudi took a sharp breath. <i>Hundreds of millions of lives?</i>


    His expression changed, and he finally said in a low voice, "It''s impossible for the war to be so devastating. The Azure Cloud Empire will intervene."


    "You don''t need to worry about the Azure Cloud Empire. There are people who will dy their involvement. By the time the Azure Cloud Empire intervenes, the war will already be over," said the young man.


    Jue Wudi fell silent for a moment, then nodded slowly. "Alright, I will take action when the timees, but I can''t guarantee whether I can kill the young master of the Dongfang n or not."


    The young man immediately smiled. "Just having your word is enough reassurance for me." Pausing slightly, the young man asked, "What do you think of that person who has just returned to the Fang Family?"


    "He¡¯s not a simple guy...." said Jue Wudi softly.


    "Indeed. He just arrived in the capital and he has sold over a hundred Purple Lightning Talismans. He also opened a mid-grade spirit stone. I don''t quite think this was pure luck," said the young man with a smile. "You should pay attention to him when you have the time, or perhaps get Fang Lingxing to test him," said the young man. ¡°That woman is extremely obsessed with you. She¡¯ll do whatever you say.¡±


    "I will talk to her." Jue Wudi nodded. He paused for a moment then said, "The Jue Family has two guests. They¡¯re iming that their ancestors had some connections with the Jue Family. Our ancestor seems to attach great importance to these two individuals. Should I have someone investigate them?"


    Fang Chen''s eyes flickered. <i>So it turned out to be the Jue Family. </i>


    Jiang Zhong had once mentioned that there was a prominent family within the Grand Qian Empire that had once served the Jiang family as ves. Now, it seemed clear that they were from the Jue Family.


    Fang Chen couldn''t help shaking his head. <i>They¡¯re jumping out of the frying pan into the fire.</i>


    These two had been chased around back in the me Empire by Spirit Blood Sect cultivators, and now they were attracting the attention of the Jue Family in the Grand Qian Empire.


    Fortunately, it seemed that Jue Wudi was in the dark regarding their identities, so there shouldn¡¯t be any immediate danger for the two.


    "Your Jue Family existed for many years, so it''s normal to have some friends from previous generations. There''s no need to investigate," said the young man.¡±


    "I''m was just casually mentioning it to you, no other intentions. I''ll take my leave now," said Jue Wudi.


    The young man nodded slightly. "Go ahead."


    On his way out, Jue Wudi mumbled to himself, "After Iplete this mission, I¡¯ll probably have umted enough achievements to apply for a promotion to the mid-stage Foundation Building Realm.¡±


    In the quiet room, Fang Chen slowly opened his eyes.


    The young master of the Jade River Pavilion was a Spirit Blood Sect cultivator. Did that mean that the Jade River Pavilion was somehow connected to the Spirit Blood Sect? He definitely needed to look into this.


    But what he could be certain of was that both the young master of the Jade River Pavilion and Jue Wudi were cultivators of the Spirit Blood Sect.


    There were countless cultivators in the capital city of Grand Qian, and aside from those two, no one knew if there were any other Spirit Blood Sect cultivators hiding.


    Now that he hade to know of their n, Fang Chen was already brewing a n of his own.


    Since they wanted to assassinate the young master of the Dongfang n at the trade conference, it meant that this event would significantly impact the tensions between the two countries and could lead to war.


    His goal was to disrupt their ns by ensuring the safety of the Dongfang n''s young master.


    Fang Chen''s eyes shed with a cold smile. "I''ll carefully uncover how many ''parasites'' are hidden in the imperial capital when the timees.¡±


    One could imagine that simr conversations had to have taken ce in the past within the Grand Xia Empire, too, where a few words decided the life and death of hundreds of thousands of Grand Xia soldiers.

 Chapter 338: Competition of the Three Branches

    <h4>Chapter 338: Competition of the Three Branches</h4>


    The annualpetition of the Three Branches rolled around with hundreds of young cultivators participating.


    Members from the main branch, second branch, and third branch would being to join in on the excitement.


    Li Cang was leading the way for Fang Chen, and the passing cultivators would asionally cast curious nces at Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen had been at the third branch for a little over half a month now, and people were starting to get to know him¡ªhe was the side branch member whom Fang Ao favored, and the one who owned the courtyard that was equipped with spiritual springs and fields.


    "Young Master, this is where we practice our cultivation techniques on a daily basis here in the third branch," said Li Cang, leading Fang Chen through a long corridor before entering a spacious area.


    It was an open space measuring thirty feet in length and width,rge enough to amodate thousands of people without anyone feeling cramped. There were formations that encircled the area, ensuring that thepetiton wouldn¡¯t damage the surroundings.


    By the time Fang Chen arrived, there were already many disciples from the third branch present.


    Fang Chen spotted Fang Ao, who was talking with the cultivators from the branches. His wife, Jing Jing, was standing nearby. Fang Chen saw Fang Yun and Fang Jue in the vicinity, too.


    "Amitabha," a Buddhist chant sounded.


    Master Chanyuan had arrived too with Wu Ruochou and Xia Ji, moving slowly.


    "Master Chanyuan."


    Fang Ao and the other cultivators immediately gave their greetings.


    The young disciples of the Fang Family naturally weren¡¯t interested in the elders¡¯ conversation; their attention was more on Xia Ji, their eyes filled with mockery and disdain.


    Everyone knew by now that Xia Ji had caused significant trouble in the imperial capital, offending a formidable figure like Jue Wudi.


    Xia Ji was sweeping the crowd with his eyes when he spotted Fang Chen, causing his eyes to brighten.


    "Fang Da!" called Xia Ji as he walked over with Wu Ruochou.


    Li Cang was a little surprised when he saw them.


    "Are you nning to participate today?" asked Xia Ji in a low voice.


    Fang Chen gently shook his head. "This kind ofpetition is of no use to me."


    Xia Ji nodded. "I see.¡±


    Xia Ji knew that, for someone like Fang Chen, thispetition wouldn¡¯t bring him any benefits.


    Li Cang hesitated to speak, remembering that Fang Hao had mentioned the day before that he¡¯d be looking to cause Fang Chen trouble at thepetition.


    They only waited for half an hour when the Fang Ao and the other Foundation Building Realm experts suddenly floated into the air before sitting cross-legged.


    "Today is the Three Branches Minor Competition. We will firstpete in alchemy and talisman crafting. To save time, disciples participating in these twopetitions can skip the third one, the spell technique exchange." Fang Ao''s voice echoed in everyone''s ears. "Simply speaking, those participating in these twopetitions are excused from the third one."


    As Fang Ao finished speaking, more than a dozen figures walked out one after another.


    Mockery appeared on everyone''s faces immediately. In the three branches, there were no genuine inheritances for the Dao of Talismans or the Dao of Alchemy. Everyone had mediocre talent in both arts.


    The only reason those who participated, participated, was because they didn¡¯t wish to take part in the thirdpetition, which focused on spell techniques.


    Suddenly, someone noticed Fang Chen and gasped, "Hey, that guy looks familiar, who is he?"


    Another sneered and said, "Seems like a side branch neer. This is his first time participating in a Minor Competition. Why is he pretending to bepetent?"


    "I heard Elder Fang Ao granted him a unique courtyard. I thought he was someone outstanding, but now it seems otherwise."


    Whispered conversations continued to be heard.


    Even those Fang Ao and the others showed looks of confusion in the air.


    Only Master Chanyuan remained calm as he looked at Fang Chen quietly.


    "He''s new here. For him not to participate in the spell techniquepetition wouldn¡¯t be appropriate, right?¡± said a Foundation Building Realm cultivator in a deep voice.


    Another Foundation Building Realm cultivator shook his head slightly. "There''s no such rule. He can choose to participate in whicheverpetition he wants.¡±


    In the crowd, Fang Ao''s wife couldn''t help but shake her head. "He has been given such a good courtyard.... If he doesn¡¯t participate in the third part of thepetition, he won¡¯t be able to earn everyone¡¯s respect.¡±


    "Exactly," said Fang Yun with a sneer, looking at Fang Chen.


    Fang Jue, who was beside them, hurriedly said, "Mother, little sister, everyone has their specialization when ites to the arts. Perhaps Fang Chen is more proficient in talisman crafting or alchemy."


    Jian Jian frowned slightly. "Even you haven¡¯t touched a genuine alchemy or talisman dao inheritances before. You¡¯re trusting him to possess skills like that?"


    "Look at those people from the previous years, what kind of pills did they refine? All pills for martial artists. And those talismans that people draw¡ªStrength Talismans, Speed Talismans, these things that you can buy for a few measly spirit sones. What¡¯s the point in studying if that¡¯s all you could craft?¡±


    Fang Jue didn¡¯t have any counter to that, so feeling a little embarrassed, he didn¡¯t say anything else.


    On the other side of the crowd, Fang Hao and the others looked somewhat strange when they saw that Fang Chen wasn¡¯t nning to participate in the spell techniquepetition.


    "Let it be.¡± Fang Hao sighed softly, pushing back any mocking thoughts. ¡°Big brother has a good impression of him. I won''t be the bad guy.¡±


    "Fang Ao, thepetition is starting so soon? Didn''t even wait for me," a voice rang out.


    Two figures wereing over slowly, and as everyone saw them, a trace of seriousness appeared on their faces.


    The man who just arrived was called Fang Mosheng, a Foundation Building Realm cultivator from the main branch, and his cultivation wasn¡¯t weak at all! He was at the mid-stage Foundation Building Realm.


    The woman who came with him was the chief disciple of the main branch, Fang Lingxing!


    ncing at the sky, Fang Ao lightly said, "You''rete, Fang Mosheng.¡±


    Fang Mosheng chuckled lightly but did not argue. He soared into the air to sit with everyone else.


    "Sister Lingxing.¡±


    The disciples from the main branch around Fang Lingxing greeted her one after another, their eyes showing reverence, and admiration¡ªbut also a hint of wariness.


    Fang Lingxing remained indifferent, just nodding lightly without saying a word, adopting an aloof attitude that discouraged others from approaching.


    However, that only served to increase the awe and respect others felt toward Fang Lingxing. Those who were angered by her reaction were few, and more people added a few more points of respect for Fang Lingxing in their hearts after seeing everyone¡¯s reaction.


    When Fang Lingxing scanned the area, she noticed that Fang Chen was already among the participants in thepetition, and a trace of suspicion appeared in her eyes.


    Thepetition of talisman crafting and alchemy?


    "You may begin," announced Fang Ao.


    In an instant, everyone started drawing talismans or trying to refine pills. There was only one thing inmon among all those who started¡ªall of them were mediocre at best!


    Some couldn''t even finish drawing a talisman before the talisman paper burned up, resulting in a failed attempt and a flushed face as they left the scene in embarrassment.


    Fang Chen sat quietly, with a talisman pen and a piece of ordinary talisman paper in front of him. Seeing what was happening around him, he couldn''t help but sigh inwardly.


    The Fang Family, who had Golden Core Realm experts at its helm, seemed tock true talisman crafting and alchemy inheritances. They were trulycking in foundations. On the other hand,<i> the Introduction to the Three Thousand Daos</i> covered various talismans, including the powerful Purple Lightning Talisman! This only served to prove how deep the foundations of the Three Thousand Dao Sect ran.


    After about a dozen breaths, someone in the crowd couldn''t help but burst intoughter, which immediately sparked a chain reaction ofughter that permeated the air uncontrobly.


    Fang Ao was about to quiet them down when he noticed that the Foundation Building Realm cultivators beside him were also chuckling, so he could only resign, sighing.


    If given the chance, he really needed to find some talisman crafting and alchemy inheritances for the third branch. He didn¡¯t want these twopetitions to be treated as jokes in everypetition.


    That said, aside from a few who were really just participating to dodge the thirdpetition, there were people who were genuinely interested and passionate about these arts who were also participating. Despite the continuous mockingughter around them, they weren¡¯t affected and continued to earnestly craft their talismans or concoct their pills.


    Fang Mosheng''s gaze fell on Fang Chen. "This child is also participating in one of these twopetitions? Looks like he¡¯s crafting a talisman.¡±


    His voice only circted among a few Foundation Building Realm cultivators, unheard by those below.


    Fang Ao nodded with a strange expression."It seems his sect has a talisman crafting inheritance, so he should be proficient in this field."


    Fang Mosheng¡¯s expression suddenly changed. "Was this child the one who crafted those... Purple Lightning Talismans you acquired?"

 Chapter 339: How to Win Approval?

    <h4>Chapter 339: How to Win Approval?</h4>


    Upon hearing this, Fang Ao and the others immediately stated that Purple Lightning Talismans were too scarce, and they didn''t have enough to sell.


    Fang Mosheng nodded with a smile that didn''t reach his eyes, then looked at Fang Chen with a sense of curiosity. "What¡¯s that sect that¡¯s behind him that can provide him with over a hundred Purple Lightning Talismans?¡±


    Fang Chen had already started drawing on his talisman paper by now. He was nning on crafting a Divine Movement Talisman.


    Fang Chen¡¯s strokes were vigorous and powerful, and although his spiritual energy surged, there was no sign of instability.


    Several Foundation Building Realm cultivators noticed this and nodded in approval.


    "It seems that the sect he was in before he came to the third branch indeed owns a talisman-crafting inheritance. He¡¯s quite skilled in this field, much better than all of us."


    Another Foundation Building Realm cultivator nodded. "Although the Divine Movement Talisman is simple, and we can easily craft it, there aren¡¯t many in the younger generation who craft it while this steady.¡±


    "Without a talisman inheritance, it¡¯s only parlor tricks...¡± remarked Fang Mosheng lightly.


    Fang Ao and the others exchanged nces upon hearing what he said, but they chose to remain silent.


    In the blink of an eye, two hours went by.


    Fang Chen was deliberately slowing down his pace, but he had no choice but toplete the talisman before him!


    By now, there were only four people left. Three were drawing talismans while thest was trying to refine a pill.


    Two of the disciples crafting talismans were sweating profusely and seemed extremely focused. They were only crafting basic Strenght Talismans but they made it seem as though every stroke was a terrible challenge!


    The pill master looked even more exhausted, hisplexion was turning extremely pale as he struggled to control the fire under the furnace. Suddenly, a wisp of white smoke emerged from the pill furnace, followed by a foul smell that invaded everyone''s noses. The disciple sighed lightly and left with the pill furnace in tow.


    Fang Jue, who had been observing Fang Chen all this while, couldn''t help butment, "Looks like Fang Chen¡¯s quite skilled at talisman crafting.¡±


    He noticed that Fang Chen seemed much more rxedpared to the other twopetitors.


    Jing Jing casually remarked, ¡°Isn¡¯t he just crafting a Divine Movement Talisman? I heard from Fang Ao that he delved into talisman crafting back when he was at his previous sect.¡±


    "It¡¯s a good thing to have a disciple in the third branch who excels in talisman crafting," added Fang Jue.


    Fang Ao''s wife paused for a moment, pondering, then nodded slowly. "Indeed, that would be a good thing."


    Fang Chen had alreadypleted the Divine Movement Talisman by now.


    Fang Ao gestured lightly, and the talisman flew to him immediately.


    Fang Mosheng nced at it and chuckled. "The quality is pretty average."


    This made Fang Mosheng confirm that, even if Fang Chen had inherited the Purple Lightning Talisman legacy, he wouldn¡¯t be able to craft them himself. After all, someone who could craft a Purple Lightning Talisman should be able to easily craft a top-grade Divine Movement Talisman.


    Fang Ao felt somewhat disappointed, but even so, the other two talisman crafters seemed affected and continued to fail one after another. In the contest of talismans and alchemy, Fang Chen emerged victorious.


    "Fang Chen takes first ce in thepetition of alchemy and pill making!" announced Fang Ao loudly.


    Fang Chen bowed slightly and prepared to leave.


    When Fang Lingxing saw what Fang Chen was doing, she suddenly spoke up. "I heard that Fang Chen was just acknowledged by the family and was already arranged a unique courtyard that has its own spiritual spring and field. It seems like the practices in the third branch aren¡¯t very fair.¡±


    The crowd was surprised, and a strange look appeared on their faces.


    Many third-branch disciples suddenly looked excited. They have been harboring dissatisfaction due to this unfairness but didn¡¯t have the courage to speak up against it. Now that Fang Lingxing was echoing their thoughts, if Elder Fang Ao couldn''t provide a reasonable exnation, that unique courtyard would definitely be revoked.


    It didn¡¯t matter which branch it was. Everything had to be backed with strength; otherwise, there wouldn''t be a hierarchy!


    Even many rank one disciples couldn''t live in such unique courtyards, yet a rank three disciple was given one just like that? What was that about?


    Fang Ao''s expression changed slightly. He looked at Fang Mosheng and lightly said, "Is your main branch nning to meddle in the affairs of my third branch?¡±


    The two Foundation Building Realm cultivators from the second branch revealed strange expressions at the sudden questioning.


    Fang Mosheng chuckled. "Don¡¯t tell me you don¡¯t know this little girl¡¯s temperament. I don¡¯t want to meddle in your affairs, but you''ve arranged a unique courtyard for a rank three disciple. The news has spread, and it had a negative impact on our family."


    Fang Ao frowned slightly. "You were there that day. Don''t you know his background?"


    Fang Mosheng smiled. "I do, but the disciples don''t. You messed up and gave him a unique courtyard without any consultation. The Head said to treat him as an ordinary disciple, yet you chose to go against his orders. You''d bettere up with a good reason for it now.¡±


    There were many junior disciples from the main and second branches present, with a small number being from the fourth branch. They were whispering among themselves while the discussion was going on.


    If Fang Ao couldn¡¯t handle this matter appropriately, things wouldn¡¯t end well with the disciples from the various branches.


    Jing Jing''s face turned grim. She had long known that Fang Ao''s actions would cause gossip. However, it was still disrespectful of Fang Lingxing to challenge his decision right now.


    "What a cunning young girl. Truly a troublesome brat," said Jing Jing coldly.


    Fang Yun¡¯s gaze turned unfriendly. "Mother, is Fang Lingxing deliberately trying to embarrass father?"


    Jing Jing nodded lightly. "Yes, this should be Fang Mosheng''s idea. He and your father have never gotten along."


    ring at Fang Linxing, Fang Yun clenched her fists.


    On the other side, Wu Ruochou seemed pensive. "Junior Brother, she seems to be testing Young Master Fang."


    Xia Ji nodded slightly, smiling faintly. "I can see that. However, her efforts are destined to fail."


    Wu Ruochou nodded gently. If what Xia Ji had said about Fang Chen was true, they didn¡¯t need to put a mere Fang Lingxing in their eyes. Even the Foundation Building Realm cultivators present wouldn¡¯t be able to do anything to him!


    "Enough," Fang Ao''s voice rang out.


    The crowd immediately quieted down.


    Fang Ao nced at everyone and said calmly, "Fang Chen¡¯s status is special. For him to live in a unique courtyard is nothing. Stop making a fuss."


    <i>He has a special status? </i>Fang Lingxing furrowed her brow slightly. She didn''t know Fang Chen''s background, as all Foundation Building Realm cultivators were required to keep it confidential. Fang Mosheng hadn''t told her either.


    Fang Lingxing spoke slowly. "Elder Fang Ao, I''m afraid such a reason may not convince everyone, right?"


    ¡°Indeed, Fang Lingxing is remarkable. Amongst the younger generation, few would dare speak to a Foundation Building Realm cultivator this way.¡±


    The crowd was secretly amazed.


    At that moment, Fang Chen suddenly spoke up. "How am I supposed to satisfy all of you, then?¡±


    Fang Lingxing smiled and replied, "You must prove that you are worthy of living in the unique courtyard. If you can withstand ten moves against me, you can be considered worthy.¡±


    The crowd''s expressions turned somewhat strange. He needed to withstand ten moves from Fang Lingxing to be considered worthy of the courtyard?


    It was known that even the third branch¡¯s Fang Jue didn''t have the qualification to live in the unique courtyard. Was Fang Lingxing insinuating that there wasn¡¯t anyone in the third branch who could withstand ten moves against her?


    The third branch disciple had been siding with Fang Lingxing all this time, as they were unhappy with Fang Chen, but when they heard her say those words, their expressions changed, and they looked at her warily.

 Chapter 340: Fang Chen, What is Your Cultivation Level?

    <h4>Chapter 340: Fang Chen, What is Your Cultivation Level?</h4>


    Fang Ao, who had been paying attention to the situation, spoke calmly, "Lingxing, you are at the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm, this would be an extremely uneven match. There''s no need for this kind of confrontation."


    Fang Mosheng smiled. "Competition amongst the younger generation doesn''t necessarily mean a fight to the death. Comparing their mastery over the Five Elements Technique would suffice.¡±


    Fang Mosheng turned to Fang Chen, his brow slightly furrowed. "Fang Chen, what is your cultivation level? Stop masking your cultivation. There''s no need to hide your cultivation level within the family. No cultivator here would harm you."


    "Yes, this guy has been concealing his cultivation level all this time. What stage of the Qi Refining Realm is he really at?"


    "It can''t be too high, right? Otherwise, why would he hide it?"


    The crowd whispered among themselves.


    Masking one¡¯s aura was amon practice. The disciples would also hide their cultivation while they were away from the family to avoid unnecessary trouble, that was especially the case if their cultivation level was low, as it could be incredibly dangerous for them outside in the cultivation world.


    Master Chanyuan nced at Fang Lingxing and then at Fang Mosheng, a hint of amusement in his eyes.


    Fang Ao nodded slightly. "Fang Chen, there''s really no need for you to hide your cultivation level within our family."


    When Fang Chen heard this, he let his spiritual energy surge.


    The power of his soul allowed him to conceal his cultivation level when not using his abilities, but once he activated his spiritual energy, his cultivation level would be revealed.


    His aura began to rise steadily.


    The first stage of the Qi Refining Realm.


    The second stage of the Qi Refining Realm.


    The third stage of the Qi Refining Realm.


    In the blink of an eye, Fang Chen''s aura had reached the tenth stage of the Qi Refining Realm.


    Astonishment shed in everyone¡¯s eyes.


    Even Fang Ao and the others were stunned. They didn¡¯t expect Fang Chen¡¯s cultivation level to be that high!


    It was already considered exceptional within the family to reach the tenth stage of the Qi Refining Realm. Those of the younger generation who managed to reach this level would receive special attention when it came to their cultivation.


    However...!


    The Fang Family was a prestigious n with a Golden Core Realm expert presiding over it! Fang Chen had just recently recognized his ancestral roots. The only thing special about him was that he was Fang Tingyuan¡¯s descendant, but he hadn¡¯t received Fang Tingyuan¡¯s true legacy. In essence, he was no different from a wandering cultivator!


    Everyone couldn¡¯t help but wonder curiously about which powerful sect was behind Fang Chen. They assumed that Fang Chen''s sect had to be powerful to allow him to achieve such a high level of cultivation at such a young age.


    Fang Yun was dumbfounded. "This guy... is actually at the tenth stage of the Qi Refining Realm?"


    Fang Ao''s wife showed a hint of astonishment.


    On the other side, Fang Hao and the others looked at each other in disbelief.


    "So he''s at the tenth stage of the Qi Refining Realm... No wonder he was unfazed from our threats!"


    "But with such cultivation, why did he refuse to participate in the thirdpetition? As long as he participates, no one would dare to doubt him any longer!"


    Li Cang¡¯s eyes shone with excitement. "Fang Chen''s cultivation level is so high..."


    The stronger Fang Chen was, the more benefits he would gain from following him.


    Fang Lingxing''s eyes flickered slightly. "So he''s at the tenth stage of the Qi Refining Realm."


    With this, it could be said that she had achieved her goal of probing Fang Chen. Now, she would teach him a lesson, which would also serve as punishment for his friendship with Xia Ji.


    Just as everyone was still lost in their shock, Fang Chen''s aura suddenly began to rise once more, surging.


    11th stage of the Qi Refining Realm!


    12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm!


    Pin-drop silence.


    Even Fang Mosheng¡¯s expression turned horrified this time, and he reflexively looked at Fang Ao and the others.


    "He''s at the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm! Did you all know about this?"


    "We didn''t..."


    Fang Ao and the others muttered.


    Being at the twelfth stage of the Qi Refining Realm in the Fang Family already meant bearing heavy responsibilities. If a younger generation member had such cultivation, it would be more than just heavy responsibilities. The Fang Family would definitely procure Foundation Building Pills for them, pushing them into the Foundation Building Realm as soon as possible! When that happened, the Fang Family would possess yet another powerhouse at the Foundation Building Realm!


    These cultivators were not like those old folks who were barely promoted to Foundation Building Realm when their lifespan was about to end; this type of Foundation Building Realm cultivators would perish at the early realm no doubt about it. These youngsters, however, were different. They had unlimited potential! For them, reaching the mid orte stages of the Foundation Building Realm wasn¡¯t a dream! They had the possibility of achieving great aplishments in the future. In simpler terms, these cultivators were seeds that had the potential to reach the Golden Core Realm!


    The Grand Qian Empire called such cultivators ¡°Immortal Seeds.¡±


    Previously, only Fang Lingxing could barely be called an Immortal Seed. In the capital of Grand Qian, only that invincible figure from the Jue Family truly deserved that title!


    "Fang Chen... he''s actually at the 12th of the Qi Refining Realm?" eximed Fang Yun in disbelief, subconsciously looking at Fang Jue.


    Fang Jue also looked shocked. "I didn''t expect this at all!"


    Jing Jing¡¯s expression turned extremely serious. She couldn¡¯t help but feel regretful recalling how coldly she had treated Fang Chen during their first encounter.


    Fang Hao and the others didn''t know what to say anymore. They felt like a bunch of clowns.


    The third branch¡¯s disciples around were both surprised and delighted. They were surprised that Fang Chen was at the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm and delighted that their branch finally had someone who couldpete with Fang Lingxing!


    The nearby martial artists cast jealous gazes at Li Cang. "This kid Li Cang is way too damn lucky!"


    As disciples of the Fang Family, they naturally understood the prospects of following a young disciple at the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm!


    "He''s at the 12th stage of Qi Refining Realm?!" Fang Lingxing''s eyes were filled with shock, but she quickly calmed down. "Brother Jue indeed has keen insight; he was able to sense that something is off about Fang Chen."


    But what did matter that Fang Chen was at the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm? Even if he was at the same stage as her, his understanding of techniques would still pale inparison to hers!


    Xia Ji looked at Wu Ruochou and smiled. "Sister, I didn''t lie to you, did I?"


    Wu Ruochou nodded slightly. At least, that part about Fang Chen''s cultivation being at the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm was as Xia Ji had said. But... could Fang Chen really defeat Foundation Building Realm cultivators with that cultivation?


    Wu Ruochou was still full of doubt regarding this point, but she trusted that Xia Ji wouldn''t lie to her. That was why she felt very conflicted.


    Fang Chen looked at Fang Lingxing and calmly said, "With a cultivation at the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm, it shouldn¡¯t be too difficult to take ten moves from you, right?"


    "Although you have cultivation at the twelfth stage of the Qi Refining Realm, you¡¯re still blind. Whether you can withstand tens moves in my hands remains to be seen," said Fang Lingxing calmly.


    Fang Ao''s voice rang out slowly then. "Fang Chen is at the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm. Was it fair for me to bestow him the unique courtyard of the third branch?¡±


    Of course it was fair!


    Now, whether it was the third branch¡¯s disciples or the other branches¡¯ disciples, none had anything to say!


    "Elder Fang Ao, before Fang Chen was here, there was never a member of the younger generation with whom I could spar. This is a rare opportunity, so may I have a friendly exchange with Fang Chen?" said Fang Lingxing slowly, changing the pretext in order to fight Fang Chen for real.


    "Ultimately, the choice remains with Fang Chen. I cannot force him to spar with you." Fang Ao looked at Fang Chen. "Fang Chen, are you willing to have a friendly exchange with Fang Lingxing?"


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "Sure."


    The crowd immediately buzzed with excitement. This fight would represent the pinnacle of the Fang Family''s next generation!


    The third branch¡¯s disciples were especially excited. They had never in their wildest dreams imagined that there would be a day when they¡¯d have someone in their branch who could stand toe to toe with Fang Lingxing!


    From now on, they could hold their heads high!

 Chapter 341: Who Exactly is This Person?

    Chapter 341: Who Exactly is This Person?


    The crowd retreated to the sidelines, offering space for Fang Chen and Fang Lingxing.


    Fang Lingxing wasted no time, her spiritual energy surged as she lightly raised her hand. Suddenly, a bright golden sword materialized in the void and shed toward Fang Chen!


    The disciples around showed expressions full of shock. "That''s the terrifying power of the metal element! The power it contains is overwhelming!"


    Among the techniques cultivators used, the Five Elements Techniques was one of the mostmon and effective ones. If one mastered this technique, they¡¯d be able to handle opponents of the same level with ease.


    For example, the metal element, that Fang Lingxing disyed, was the most difficult to control among the five elements. Most cultivators usually focused on mastering the earth or water elements, while only a few delved into the fire element. As for the metal element, many cultivators chose to outright give up on it since was too difficult to learn and it consumed too much time to cultivate, so it wasn¡¯t worth the effort.


    Yet, to everyone¡¯s dismay, Fang Lingxing was able to effortlessly condense arge sword with the power of the metal element, showing her mastery over this technique.


    If one''s spiritual energy was not strong enough, it was almost impossible to withstand such an attack. At times, the offensive power of the metal element could even surpass that of spiritual treasures!


    "This move is not easy to defend against," said Fang Jue, his expression turning serious.


    Fang Yun nodded slightly. She was well aware of how powerful the metal element was.Just when everyone was thinking that Fang Chen would dodge Fang Lingxing¡¯s iing sword, they saw Fang Chen lightly raise his hand, as if preparing to directly fight it head-on.


    The crowd was shocked.


    "What is he doing?!"


    Fang Ao and the others furrowed their brows. He¡¯s trying to withstand her attack with sheer spiritual energy?


    If he failed, the oue would be bad¡­ At the very least, he would lose an arm!


    Just as everyone was puzzled, a golden arm suddenly appeared in the void, making the exact same motion as Fang Chen.


    <em>ng!</em>


    The arm caught the sword.


    It didn¡¯t stop there. The arm continued to extend, and soon, a nearly ten-foot-tall golden-armored warrior appeared before everyone.


    The golden-armored warrior forcefully crushed the golden sword in his hand before creating another golden sword.


    "This... is the power of the metal element!?"


    Everyone gasped in disbelief, their eyes filled with incredulity.


    <em>How was this possible?!</em>


    A nearly ten-foot-tall golden-armored warrior?!


    A cultivator at the Qi Refining Realm had such a profound understanding of the power of the metal element?!


    "Is he really just at the Qi Refining Realm!? Could he be at Foundation Building Realm!?" someone eximed in disbelief.


    They had never seen a Qi Refining Realm cultivator easily manipte such arge amount of metal element energy before!


    Just the golden sword that Fang Lingxing condensed moments ago was enough to shock them. And now, just the golden longsword in the hands of the golden-armored warrior wasrger than Fang Lingxing''s sword by several times¡­.


    Even if they gave it their best shot, they could barely condense a piece of the armor the giant wore.


    "Fang Ao, are you able to do this?" eximed one of the Foundation Building Realm cultivators, unable to help himself.


    Fang Ao nced at him. "I can''t. And neither can you.¡±


    "We... none of us have such fine control over the five elements," said another Foundation Building Realm cultivator, his voice hoarse.


    They, Foundation Building Realm cultivators, paled inparison to a Qi Refining Realm junior when it came to controlling the five elements¡­!


    This was something hard to believe, but they were witnessing it with their very own eyes! This golden-armored warrior was even capable of threatening experts at their level!


    Fang Lingxing''s blood surged as she stared at the scene before her. Deep in her eyes, disbelief was evident. She couldn''t fathom how her opponent could be so much better than her when it came to controlling the elements.


    <em>How is this possible?!</em>


    Just then, Fang Chen made a shing motion, and in the next moment, the golden-armored warrior swung the longsword in his hand, shing toward Fang Lingxing.


    The moisture in the air was instantly vaporized, and spiritual energy boiled. The aura from the de flipped the earth over and Fang Lingxing reflexively erected a spiritual energy shield to protect herself. It was a shame it was shattered instantly by the aura radiating from the de.


    Fang Lingxing clumsily rolled to the side, her unstable figure turning into a desperate tumble.


    The longsword fiercely struck the wall behind Fang Lingxing, causing a golden light to ripple across, indicating that the formation had been activated.


    Everyone was horrified to see a faint de mark on the wall! It should be noted that the formation was reinforced by the Foundation Building Realm cultivators of the Fang Family throughout the year. The fact that the de could leave a mark on it demonstrated its terrifying power!


    Fang Chen turned toward Fang Lingxing''s direction and lightly waved his hand once more. The warrior swung his longsword again, causing terror to well up in Fang Lingxing¡¯s heart. She hastily gathered the water element to defend herself.


    Among the five elements, when it came to defending against the metal element, the water element worked best, as it could ovee the hardness of metal with its softness.


    A massive water shield was erected in front of Fang Lingxing, but it shattered under a touch from the longsword. The enormous power gap between Fang Chen and Fang Lingxing was huge, it made the advantage of softness over hardness redundant.


    Fang Lingxing¡¯s attempts seemed more and more feeble as the fight went on.


    All the disciples, whichever branch they were from, were stunned at this sight. The youngest Qi Refining Realm cultivator of the Fang Family had been rendered utterly helpless in front of Fang Chen! This was aplete beatdown!


    "I actually thought of threatening him?" muttered Fang Hao to himself.


    Fang Yun''s expression shifted erratically. She suddenly understood why her father was treating Fang Chen so specially, and why he had bestowed him that unique courtyard. In her view, Fang Ao had to have known about Fang Chen''s strength long ago!


    "Patriarch Fang Tianyuan¡¯s descendant is truly extraordinary..." murmured Fang Ao softly.


    The two Foundation Building Realm cultivators of the second branch exchanged a look, regret in their eyes. If they had known earlier, they would havepeted with Fang Ao for this talent.


    Fang Moseng''s eyebrows furrowed into a "´¨" shape as he watched Fang Lingxing flee desperately under Fang Chen''s hands. He knew that she would be in if the slightest mishap happened. He couldn''t bear it anymore and slightly raised his hand, sending a flying sword toward Fang Chen.


    "Stop, that¡¯s enough," said Fang Moseng.


    The golden-armored warrior suddenly moved, swinging the de at the flying sword.


    <em>ng! </em>


    The longsword in the golden-armored warrior''s hand shattered inch by inch, and cracks even appeared on his body. However, the flying sword was also knocked away, brushing past Fang Moseng''s cheek and flying into the sky hundreds of feet high.


    A drop of blood slowly dripped down Fang Moseng''s cheek.


    Slowly touching the wound on his face, Fang Moseng¡¯s expression sank.


    Everyone fell into silence.


    What had they just witnessed?!


    Fang Chen actually stopped the flying sword sent out by a Foundation Building Realm cultivator, and he even managed to injure him!


    That was a mid-grade, yellow-rank spiritual treasure, with at least thirty-three Soul Imprints!


    Fang Lingxing stood there dumbfounded. He injured a Foundation Building Realm cultivator while he was only at the Qi Refining Realm? What kind of monstrous talent was that?!


    "<em>Junior Brother, Ipletely believe you now,</em>" transmitted Wu Ruochou to Xia Ji, unable to help herself.


    "<em>Senior Sister Wu, I wouldn''t lie to anyone, especially not you. This is still not Fang Da''s true power, he¡¯s just warming up,</em>" Xia Ji transmitted back with augh.


    Wu Ruochou felt a myriad of emotions rolling in her heart. She already knew Fang Chen''s background. His ancestors have produced outstanding, brilliant talents with their excellent bloodline!

 Chapter 342: Assault

    Chapter 342: Assault


    Fang Ao¡¯s voice cut through the frosty silence.


    "Fang Mosheng, why did you suddenly attack a junior?"


    Fang Mosheng sneered. "If I didn¡¯t make a move, Lingxing would¡¯ve died in his hands. We agreed for them to spar, but he''s aiming to kill with every move."


    The cut on his cheek healed visibly fast, and the flying sword that had been knocked away returned to hover behind him.


    "The cultivation world is full of dangers. We juniors are used to it. The so-called sparing doesn¡¯t make sense at all," said Fang Chen calmly.


    "Did you hear that?¡± asked Fang Ao in a deep voice. ¡°It¡¯s because he¡¯s experienced. That¡¯s the difference between Fang Chen and the rest of the family disciples. He has truly experienced the trials of the cultivation world, to the point where he even lost his sight, a testament to the harsh battles he has went through.¡±


    It was only when Fang Ao mentioned this again that everyone remembered that Fang Chen was actually blind. In other words¡­ Fang Lingxing had been dominated by a blind Qi Refining Realm cultivator.


    "<em>Hmph</em>. All I know is that this kid is too bloodthirsty. If he stays in the family, I can see troubleing our way sooner orter," said Fang Mosheng meaningfully as he nced at Fang Ao. He quickly took Fang Lingxing and left after that.


    Fang Ao and the others'' expressions changed slightly. They knew what Fang Mosheng was implying. That incident that happened many years ago was very strange. Moreover... the mastermind behind Fang Tingyuan''s crippled cultivation hadn¡¯t shown themselves yet, and it was uncertain if they were still alive or not.If that person caught wind of any news regarding Fang Chen, it might bring another catastrophic disaster upon the family!


    "Let''s carry on with thepetition. The next round is a contest of technique," said Fang Ao slowly.


    After everyone regained theirposure, they continued with thepetition. However, their mindset at this moment waspletely different from before.


    With the battle between Fang Chen and Fang Lingxing still fresh in their minds, even if Fang Jue personally participated, it¡¯d still be a very underwhelming disy. Even the participants themselves were not performing to the best of their ability due to the impact that the previous battle between Fang Chen and Fang Lingxing had on them.


    Xia Ji chuckled softly. "Fang Da, did you see the look on Fang Lingxing¡¯s face? It was like she had eaten something disgusting."


    Wu Ruochou frowned slightly. "Junior Brother, we¡¯re at the Fang Family¡¯s. Be mindful of what you say."


    Although Xia Ji had a feud with Fang Lingxing because of herself, Wu Ruochou didn''t want Xia Ji to continue offending everyone endlessly. If he made too many enemies, even the Profound Void Temple might not be able to protect him.


    Xia Ji nodded with a smile and said, "I understand, Senior Sister. I''ll be careful from now on."


    Fang Chen looked at Xia Ji. "Wanna go for a stroll?"


    Xia Ji nodded slightly. "Sure."


    "I''ll stay here with Master. If you return toote, just head straight back to the Profound Void Temple," Wu Ruochou reminded Xia Ji.


    After Fang Chen and Xia Ji left, the pressure on the third branch disciples who were either participating or preparing for thepetition eased a bit.


    ***


    Xia Ji felt amazed as he stood by ake. He said, "Your family is really something else! They managed to relocate an entireke. My master said thiske was originally outside the city.¡±


    Li Cang was standing not too far away, but without Fang Chen''s instructions, he didn''t dare to stand too close.


    "<em>Both Jue Wudi and the young master of the Jade River Pavillion are Spirit Blood Sect cultivators</em>," Fang Chen suddenly transmitted to Xia Ji.


    Xia Ji''s expression changed slightly, and he transmitted, "<em>Is that true?</em>"


    Xia Ji¡¯s expression was somewhat strange. Fang Chen had only arrived in the city not long ago, yet he already uncovered their secrets!


    Fang Chen continued, "<em>They¡¯re nning to provoke a conflict between the Grand Wei Empire and the Dongfang Family during the trade conference by killing the young master of the Dongfang Family.</em>¡±


    Xia Ji''s face darkened. "<em>Are they nning to instigate a war between the Grand Qian and Grand Wei?</em>"


    Fang Chen nodded lightly.


    "<em>The Dongfang Family holds a very important position in Grand Wei, one that¡¯s even more important than the imperial family¡¯s. I heard that the Dongfang Family lineage might¡¯ve originated from a third-tier empire,</em>" Xia Ji transmitted his voice. "<em>If the Dongfang Family''s young master dies in Grand Qian, the two countries will definitely go to war unless the Azure Cloud Empire intervenes.</em>"


    "<em>They won''t be able to intervene. There are also Spirit Blood Sect members there.</em>¡±


    Both of them fell silent for a while.


    "The Spirit Blood Sect is truly ubiquitous," Xia Ji''s face showed a hint of cold sarcasm. "I wonder why those powerful immortal sects in first-tier empires turn a blind eye to this. Do they really not know that the Spirit Blood Sect is secretly using mortals to refine Blood Spirit Pills?"


    "Perhaps they know, perhaps they don''t. But the Spirit Blood Sect may have a powerful Ancestor, and that should be the reason why they are deeply rooted everywhere," replied Fang Chen.


    Xia Ji seemed confused. ¡°An Ancestor?¡±


    Fang Chen smiled and said, "In cultivation, there are the Lower Three Realms, Middle Three Realms, Upper Three Realms, and beyond that is the realm of an Ancestor¡ªthe true top-tier powerhouse in this world. They aren¡¯t really immortals but they¡¯re infinitely close to them."


    "Wow..." Xia Ji took a sharp breath. "Fang Da, how do you know all this?"


    "A senior told me," replied Fang Chen.


    Supreme Immortal Pudu surfaced in Fang Chen¡¯s mind. He couldn''t help but wonder, when he next encountered Supreme Immortal Pudu, would it be in a fourth-tier empire, a third-tier empire, a second-tier empire, or even a first-tier empire¡­?


    Perhaps it would be in a few years when he meets him again.


    Xia Ji furrowed his brow deeply. ¡°If the Spirit Blood Sect is really as powerful as you say, it will be troublesome.¡±


    Fang Chen smiled and said, ¡°I have sworn that I will kill as many as I can. When those two take action, the Spirit Blood Sect cultivators in the capital will most likelye out of the woodwork. At that time, we will eradicate them together.¡±


    This time around, he was the one hidden behind the scenes. Even if the Spirit Blood Sect found out about this, they wouldn''t be able to find who¡¯s behind it.


    While the two were talking, a bell suddenly rang within the Fang Family.


    Everyone in the Fang Family showed expressions of shock.


    This was the sect rm of the Fang Family! It only rang when they encountered enemies!


    "Oh no! Fang Lingxing has been ambushed at the gate!" someone shouted.


    Li Cang looked stunned. Fang Lingxing was ambushed? Right outside the gates of the Fang Family?


    Xia Ji chuckled lightly. "Fang Da, look at Fang Lingxing. No wonder she was ambushed right outside the door of her home, she has too many enemies. I wonder if she survived.¡±


    Fang Chen smiled and said, "You''ll know once you go and take a look for yourself."


    ***


    The Fang Family''s main gate.


    The gate hadpletely copsed.


    The street was crowded with onlookers. Some were astonished and in doubt. They couldn¡¯t imagine who in the capital had the guts to make a move against the Fang Family.


    Wasn¡¯t that just courting death?


    They even destroyed the main gate!


    This was an irreconcble grudge!


    Sitting among the rubble and dust was Fang Lingxing. She was pale, and blood was slowly trickling from her seven orifices. Her gaze was vacant, as if she still hadn¡¯t yet processed what had just happened.


    Fang Mosheng''s face was livid, and he was scanning around with his eyes like a hawk searching for its prey.


    Soon, more Foundation Building Realm experts rushed over.


    By the time Fang Chen arrived, there were already a dozen or so Foundation Building Realm members of the Fang Family present and dozens of steward-level disciples with a cultivation level at the twelfth stage of the Qi Refining Realm.


    "She''s not dead."


    Xia Ji looked at Fang Lingxing and sighed heavily in his heart. He couldn''t help but curse Lord Tiger a few times in his heart.


    Lord Tiger had taken a thousand spirit stones from him yet he still wasn¡¯t able to kill her!


    "What happened? Who dared to ambush a genius of our family right outside our doorstep?!"


    The head of the Fang Family arrived slowly, his expression dark with a hint of anger.


    The Foundation Building Realm experts around him quickly bowed, but since they didn¡¯t know the details of what happened, they refrained from saying anything.

 Chapter 343: Scheming

    <h4>Chapter 343: Scheming</h4>


    Fang Mosheng was livid. "Family Head, someone has targeted the youngdy! There are cultivators in the capital plotting against our family!"


    The surrounding Foundation Building Realm experts of the Fang Family looked solemn. This was no longer a personal matter rted to Fang Lingxing; it concerned the entire Fang Family!


    The family head nced at Fang Lingxing and asked, "How are your injuries?"


    Fang Lingxing had collected herself a little by now. Her face was pale as she opened her palm, revealing several fragments. "Family Head, I merely suffered some internal injuries. Thankfully I had a protective treasure. It was shattered by the culprit who attacked me...¡±


    "It''s the True Fire Hairpin."


    The Fang Family''s Foundation Building Realm experts recognized the treasure. It was a mid-grade, yellow-rank protective treasure with thirty-one Soul Imprints.


    During the Major Competition of the Fang Family a few years ago, Fang Lingxing won first ce, and the True Fire Hairpin was one of the prizes.


    Protective treasures were already rare, let alone a mid-grade, yellow-rank protective treasure, which was worth one-third more than offensive treasures of the same rank.


    Moreover, the True Fire Hairpin had been crafted by an Artifact Master from a fourth-tier empire, which made it so that even Qi Refining Realm cultivators could easily activate it.


    However, it could only be used three times; after that, it would break and turn useless.


    This wasn''t a disadvantage but rather an advantage of the True Fire Hairpin. If it appeared on the market, it would surely be fought over madly.


    The fact that Fang Lingxing''s True Fire Hairpin had shattered meant that the assant hadunched three fatal attacks in session.


    "Do you remember how your assant looked?" asked the head of the Fang Family in a deep voice.


    Fang Lingxing furrowed her brow slightly. "He... seemed to be hiding within a shadow. I couldn¡¯t see his face."


    Why would a Foundation Building Realm expert target her? Were they targeting the Fang Family, or just her?


    Just then, a group of Grand Qian Guards approached.


    "Looks like the Grand Qian Guards are here. There will be unrest in theing days within the inner city, it seems."


    "Do you think it was the Jue Family who targeted the Fang Family''s genius?"


    "We better not specte randomly, don¡¯t want to get dragged into trouble."


    Everyone passing by whispered to themselves.


    The head of the Fang Family exined the situation to the leader of the Grand Qian Guards, who nodded slowly with a solemn expression before leading his soldiers away.


    "The Grand Qian Guard will be handling this matter. The assant probably still hasn''t escaped the inner city yet. I want to see who it was that dared to make a move against our Fang Family," said the head of the as his gaze turned dark. He nced at the surrounding crowd onest time and then walked away.


    "You go back and rest too. Don''t go out for a while," said Fang Mosheng to Fang Lingxing, then nced at Fang Chen in the crowd out of the corner of his eye.


    "Dad, I want to go see Brother Jue," whispered Fang Lingxing.


    Fang Mosheng furrowed his brow slightly, remained silent for a moment, then nodded. "I''ll take you there myself."


    After the father and daughter left, members of the Fang Family came out to repair the damaged main gate, and the Foundation Building Realm experts of the Fang Family left one after another.


    Xia Ji suddenly said, "Fang Da, I''m going to see someone. You better focus on your cultivation these days to prepare for what will happen.¡±


    Fang Chen nodded gently and watched Xia Ji leave before turning back and taking Li Cang back to the secluded courtyard.


    "No visitors today," instructed Fang Chen before heading to the meditation room.


    ***


    At Lord Tiger''s residence.


    Xia Ji looked at Lord Tiger with a deep frown on his face. "Were you the one who arranged that attack?"


    "Ah, Xia Ji,¡± sighed Lord Tiger. ¡°As I¡¯ve told you, these attacks don¡¯t always seed.¡±


    "Fang Lingxing was only slightly startled," growled Xia Ji.


    Lord Tiger sighed helplessly. "She had a True Fire Hairpin on her that hadn¡¯t been used before! The expert I sent made three consecutive attempts but still failed to assassinate her in the end. If he had stayed any longer, he¡¯d have left traces that the Fang Family could¡¯ve used to trace the attack back to us.¡±


    At this point, Lord Tiger suddenly probed, "Actually, you don''t need to worry about Fang Lingxing''s matter anymore. Your friend...."


    Xia Ji''s face showed a bitter smile. "....Did Fang Chen visit you?"


    Lord Tiger nodded quickly and said with a wry smile, "He''s extraordinary. He came to me and warned me not to deceive you¡ªnot that I intended to, anyway."


    "I didn''t want him involved in this matter." Xia Ji muttered to himself softly, then nced at Lord Tiger. "Let''s end this matter here. I will handle Fang Lingxing myself. I hope you can find Senior Liu''s body as soon as possible. I don''t want Senior Liu to die without closure."


    "This is a new deal.¡± Lord Tiger smiled. ¡°How many spirit stones are you nning to offer?¡±


    Xia Ji didn''t say anything and simply dropped a hundred low-grade spirit stones before turning to leave.


    Fang Chen was watching everything that was happening with his divine soul, and he heaved a sigh of relief.


    As long as Xia Ji no longer involved himself, there''s no need to worry about him being discovered by the Fang Family''s Golden Core Realm experts.


    The next moment, Fang Chen¡¯s divine soul left and appeared in another room.


    Jue Wudi was sitting by himself quietly, seemingly waiting for someone.


    It didn¡¯t take long before Fang Lingxing arrived.


    Jue Wudi was slightly surprised to see her paleplexion. "Lingxing, what happened?"


    Fang Lingxing spoke with a serious expression. "I followed your instructions today and tried to probe Fang Chen.¡±


    "And how did it go?" Jue Wudi smiled faintly and asked, "What''s his cultivation level?"


    "He''s at the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm. I''m no match for him," replied Fang Lingxing softly.


    "The twelfth stage of Qi Refining Realm? And even you are not his match?" Jue Wudi''s expression changed slightly. "Tell me what exactly happened."


    Fang Lingxing recounted the details, and Jue Wudi fell silent.


    After a while, his expression turned serious. "Such methods can pose a threat to Foundation Building Realm cultivators, but gathering such arge amount of metal energy must consume a lot of his energy. He won¡¯t be able to sustain the technique for a long time....¡± Pausing for a moment, he continued, "You''d better have someone investigate his background. Find out which sect he joined beforeing to the Fang Family."


    "Big Brother Jue, even if this person''s methods are extraordinary, is it necessary for you to pay so much attention to him? You''re already at the Foundation Building Realm. He¡¯s far inferior to you... He¡¯s not even worthy of being your servant!" yelled Fang Lingxing. She seemed a little confused.


    Jue Wudi pondered for a moment, then said, "Being cautious never hurts. I''m afraid he might join hands with Xia Ji to deal with you."


    Fang Lingxing¡¯s eyes constricted. "Why would they target me...?"


    Jue Wudiughed. "Lingxing, isn''t Liu Chendong already dead?"


    Fang Lingxing''s expression changed slightly. "Why do you say that, Big Brother Jue?"


    "Don''t worry, although I don''t agree with how you do things, you did it all for me. I won''t disclose this matter to anyone else, so I hope you''ll be more careful from now on. If Xia Ji finds out, who knows what he''ll do?" said Jue Wudi softly.


    Fang Lingxing¡¯s expression changed slightly and she muttered, ¡°When I left the Fang Family today, I was ambushed by an expert in the Foundation Building Realm. If not for the True Fire Hairpin that blocked the attack, I wouldn¡¯t have been able to see you again...¡±


    ¡°You were ambushed by a Foundation Building Realm expert?¡± Jue Wudi was slightly taken aback. His expression sank and he slowly became serious. ¡°Could it be Master Chanyuan?¡±


    ¡°Master Chanyuan was watching thepetition in the third branch. It can¡¯t have been him!¡± Fang Lingxing shook her head and sighed. ¡°Moreover, Xia Ji doesn¡¯t know that Liu Chendong is already dead.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s do this instead. It doesn¡¯t matter if this has anything to do with Xia Ji. I¡¯ll get the Lin Family from District Eighteen to ask him for an exnation in the Profound Void Temple,¡± said Jue Wudi in a low voice.


    Fang Lingxing was moved as she understood what Jue Wudi wanted to show with his actions. However, she quickly revealed her concerns. ¡°With Master Chanyuan in the Profound Void Temple, I¡¯m afraid of the head of the Lin Family...¡±


    ¡°Master Chanyuan will be staying in the inner city tonight,¡± muttered Jue Wudi as the corners of his lips curled upwards.

 Chapter 344: A Smooth Journey on the Yellow Springs Road

    <h4>Chapter 344: A Smooth Journey on the Yellow Springs Road</h4>


    Fang Chen knew that when Jue Wudi said that he¡¯d have them ¡®ask Xia Ji for an exnation,¡¯ he meant that he¡¯d have the Lin Family Head kill Xia Ji.


    The fact that Jue Wudi could manipte the Lin Family Head into doing what he wanted showed that the influence of the Jue Family in the outer city was deeper than how it seemed to be.


    Fang Lingxing seemed concerned. "Big Brother Jue, what about the Lin Family Head...? Will he be willing to antagonize Master Chanyuan?"


    "I''m already aware of what happened down at the Immortal Origin District. Fang Chen and Xia Ji crippled Lin Yu''s legs. This is a thorn in the Lin Family Head¡¯s heart. We might not be able to do anything to Fang Chen right now, but who says we can¡¯t touch Xia Ji?" Jue Wudi sighed softly. "If we¡¯re meticulous enough in how we approach this, Master Chanyuan won''t know a thing."


    Fang Lingxing was feeling guilty and said, "Big Brother Jue, if it weren''t for me, you wouldn''t have to go against your will to make such a decision."


    She had initially nned to do something behind the scenes for Jue Wudi, so he wouldn''t have to get his hands dirty. But now, it seemed Jue Wudi had to intervene to help her resolve the trouble.


    "Lingxing, sometimes, we have to make choices and sacrifices," said Jue Wudi softly. "As long as we know that our choices and sacrifices are right, there will be no need for regrets!" Pausing for a moment, he continued, "In the Immortal Origin District, Fang Chen obtained a mid-grade spirit stone and received ten thousand low-grade spirit stones from your Fang Family ancestor. It¡¯s a considerable number of spirit stones. If you give such an amount away, it might put a dent in the foundations of your family. You can inform your father and your family Head to find a way to keep the spirit stones."


    Fang Lingxing nodded slightly. "My father and the family head have already discussed this matter over thest few days. Once the ancestor hands over the spirit stones to Fang Chen, they will find a way to make Fang Chen hand them back himself."


    Fang Chen grew curious hearing that. He really wanted to know how Fang Mosheng and the family head nned on having him hand back the spirit stones willingly.


    "My father said that if these spirit stones were used on me, I would be able to advance to the Foundation Building Realm quickly." Fang Lingxing''s face showed a smile. "He has already contacted a Pill Master. Once we have the spirit stones, he will refine Foundation Building Pills for me."


    Jue Wudi chuckled. "Foundation Building Pills are quite valuable. It would take seven or eight thousand low-grade spirit stones, right?"


    Fang Lingxing giggled and said, "Yes. If I still have more spirit stones, I¡¯ll give them to you!"


    Jue Wudi sighed lightly. "You¡¯re always thinking of me...."


    Thinking that he had seen enough already, Fang Chen¡¯s divine soul returned to his body. He really wasn¡¯t interested in seeing this lovey-dovey couple¡¯s flirting.


    Apart from the third branch of the Fang Family, which had already held their Minor Competition, the various branches started to tighten their security.


    Foundation Building Realm experts asionally left the Fang Family. Obviously, Fang Lingxing''s encounter with an assassination attempt has rmed them all.


    Once the third branch¡¯s minorpetition came to an end, Master Chanyuan was brought away by a Foundation Building Realm expert of the Jue Family.


    It was as Jue Wudi had said: ¡°Master Chanyuan wouldn¡¯t be returning to the Profound Void Temple that night.¡±


    "Young Master, Elder Fang Ao sent pills and spirit stones,¡± said Li Cang softly through the other side of the door. ¡°He mentioned that they¡¯re your reward for thepetition.¡±


    Fang Chen''s voice sounded. "You keep them."


    Li Cang was slightly stunned, and his expression turned incredulous.


    There were ten low-grade spirit stones and two Qi Condensing Pills. These were immensely valuable!


    Li Cang could feel his throat dry up a little, and he said, "Young... Young Master, I, I didn¡¯t quite catch that just now. This reward..."


    Fang Chen''s voice rang again. "Keep it,"


    Upon hearing what Fang Chen said this time, Li Cang immediately performed a deep bow outside the door, then turned around excitedly and left.


    A trace of light seemed to sh in the shadows before it disappeared.


    Fang Chen found that walking in the shadows was quite a peculiar feeling. It was as though he was in apletely different space. Despite the hustle and bustle on the streets, no one seemed to notice anything amiss.


    Fang Chen sessfully left the inner city and made his way to the Profound Void Temple, creeping along the shadows.


    Sitting in the shade of arge rock, he waited patiently.


    "Senior Sister, it seems like Master won''t being back today," said Xia Ji to Wu Ruochou, who was beside him, as he noticed that the sky was darkening, and Master Chanyuan hadn¡¯t yet returned back to the temple.


    "The cultivators in the capital all hope to glean the essence of the scriptures from master. Whenever they have the chance, they keep him here for discussions." Wu Ruochou smiled. "Do you know about the incident at the Fang Family today?"


    Xia Ji nodded with a smile. "Fang Lingxing was attacked. Fang Da and I went to see the excitement."


    Wu Ruochou sighed. "I wonder which enemy of hers dared to attack her in front of the Fang Family."


    Xia Ji chuckled, "With Fang Lingxing''s temperament, she must have countless enemies."


    Wu Ruochou suddenly asked, "I remember you mentioned that you had a way to find Senior Liu''s whereabouts?"


    Xia Ji nodded lightly. "I''ve already asked someone to look into it. Fang Da gave me some spirit stones to make things easier. I believe it won''t be long before we get some news.¡±


    Wu Ruochou sighed softly. Xia Ji had bought her a low-grade, yellow-rank flying sword with twelve Soul Imprints just a while ago.


    "You have to repay Young Master Fang for this favor if you ever have the chance," whispered Wu Ruochou gently.


    Xia Ji nodded. "Rest assured, Senior Sister. I know."


    Just as Wu Ruochou was about to speak, she turned her head toward the foot of the mountain, her brows slightly furrowed. "Someone is scaling the mountain."


    "There shouldn¡¯t be any pilgrims at this time, right?" remarked Xia Ji.


    Before long, more than ten figures slowly appeared in front of the Profound Void Temple. When the two saw the neers, their expressions immediately became solemn and alert.


    The leader of the group was none other than the Lin Family Head from the Eighteenth District, who crossed paths with Xia Ji and Fang Chen back in the Immortal Origin District that day.


    The people he had with him were at the Qi Refining Realm, with cultivations in the seventh stage and above.


    "Senior Lin,¡± called Xia Ji with sped hands, ¡°are you here today to offer incense?"


    Xia Ji then said, "Let me go and invite my master. Senior Lin, please wait a moment."


    "No need, Master Chanyuan is in the inner city right now." The Lin Family Head waved his hand with a smile. "You can''t possibly run to the inner city now, can you? Unless absolutely necessary, the gates between the inner and outer cities will not be openned at night."


    Xia Ji''s expression changed slightly. The Lin Family Head knew that his master wasn''t in the Profound Void Temple and yet chose to visit at night. He clearly had an ulterior motive.


    Wu Ruochou suddenly spoke up. "Senior Lin, what brings you here?"


    The Lin Family Head smiled. "Nothing much, recently your junior brother has been tarnishing Jue Wudi''s reputation all over town. I was entrusted by someone toe and discuss this matter with him.¡±


    Wu Ruochou''s expression changed. "What does this matter have to do with you?"


    "Our ns in the Grand Qian Empire either sides with the Jue Family, the imperial family, or the Fang Family. There aren''t many other choices. If possible, I wouldn''t want to make a trip over such a trivial matter. Unfortunately, a certain someone crippled my son¡¯s legs. This incident has opened my eyes,¡± said the Lin Family Head lightly. ¡°If we never stand up for ourselves, we¡¯ll be beaten right outside our doorstep one day.¡±


    Xia Ji suddenly grabbed Wu Ruochou¡¯s shoulder and said, "Senior Sister, this has nothing to do with you. Wait for me in the backyard, I''ll have a good chat with Senior Lin.¡±


    Wu Ruochou was perplexed. Did the Lin Family Head really dare to kill them? Wasn¡¯t he afraid of Master Chanyuan acting?


    "No need, she can stay here and watch." The Lin Family Head waved his hand, then looked at Xia Ji and smiled, "Master Jue asked me to pass on a message to you: ''A smooth journey on the Yellow Springs Road.'' He won''t personally see you off."


    Wu Ruochou was secretly shocked. Was it really Jue Wudi who sent the Lin Family Head after them? If that was the case, then what Xia Ji had said about Jue Wudi might actually be true.


    Jue Wudi was not as magnanimous and selfless as he made himself out to be!

 Chapter 345: Are You Sure?

    <h4>Chapter 345: Are You Sure?</h4>


    "Senior Lin, have you thought this through? If you try to kill me at the Profound Void Temple, my master won''t let this go. My brother won''t stay silent either," said Xia Ji calmly. "Your Lin Family might have a reputation in the outer city, but in the eyes of the real experts, you are just an ant."


    the Lin Family Head smiled. "I know you are good friends with Fang Chen who just recently returned to the Fang Family. But what about it? What qualifications does he have that¡¯ll warrant the Fang Family to make a move on his ount? On the other hand, Master Jue can easilymand me toe here with just a word. Don''t you understand the reasoning behind this?"


    "The head of a prestigious family like yourself is acting as a junior¡¯sckey, and you find that honorable?" retorted Xia Ji.


    "If me being Master Jue¡¯sckey can revive my Lin Family and give us a chance to establish ourselves in the inner city in the future, why can''t I be hisckey?" the Lin Family Head sighed. "Some people can only desire this opportunity of serving such a powerful master but not have it." Pausing for a moment, he added, "Perhaps in the future, no one would dare to casually cripple my son.¡±


    Xia Ji sighed inwardly, realizing that that was probably the reason for the Lin Family head''s visit. If it weren¡¯t for that incident with his son, he probably wouldn¡¯t have listened to Jue Wudi¡¯s orders.


    "Enough talk, let''s get on with it," said the Lin Family Head, waving his hand lightly.


    The spiritual energy in the surroundings surged, and a sea of fire swept toward Xia Ji and Wu Ruochou.


    The nearby Lin Family cultivators quickly set up barriers to contain the overflowing energy and conceal the mes so no know outside is alerted.


    Xia Ji and Wu Ruochou were only at the Qi Refining Realm, so in the face of a Foundation Building Realm expert, they were as fragile as tofu. Faced with the raging sea of fire, their spiritual energy instantly evaporated, making it impossible for them to resist.


    "Am I going to be buried here today?" Xia Ji sighed inwardly, subconsciously shielding Wu Ruochou behind him. Even if he had to die, it would be better for him to go first.


    <i>I guess it won''t be long before Fang Da can send these guys down here to apany me. I hope it won''t disrupt his ns, </i>Xia Ji thought to himself.


    When Wu Ruochou saw Xia Ji shield her with his body, she felt a touch of gratitude.


    Suddenly, her spiritual energy surged wildly to form a barrier, and she grabbed Xia Ji and threw him outward.


    At that moment, most of the spiritual energy in her body flowed to Xia Ji, shielding him from the mes. However, she would be swallowed by the raging sea of mes the next moment.


    Angry and shocked, Xia Ji eximed, "Senior Sister?!"


    Wu Ruochou shouted sternly, "Escape and find our master!"


    "There¡¯s nowhere to run." The Lin Family Head sneered. "Even if you manage to flee from here, you won''t be able to leave the Eighteenth District."


    Suddenly, a voice rang through the skies.


    "Are you so sure about that?"


    They didn¡¯t know when, but a figure had appeared in front of Wu Ruochou.


    A surging tide of water spiritual energy turned into a giant dragon before enveloping Wu Ruochou, the mysterious figure, and Xia Ji.


    Xia Ji was pleasantly surprised. "Fang Da?!"


    Wu Ruochou heaved a sigh of relief. "Young Master Fang."


    "It¡¯s you....¡±


    The Lin Family head furrowed his brows slightly, and the Lin Family cultivators around him turned wary.


    They weren''t afraid of Fang Chen himself, but of the Fang Family which was behind him.


    One of the Qi Refining Realm cultivators began to hesitate. "Family Head, this....¡±


    "Since we¡¯ve made a move, we have to end what we started," said the Lin Family Head indifferently. "There''s no room for negotiation. Let''s kill this kid as well. If the Fang Family causes trouble, the Jue Family will handle it for us."


    "Yes!"


    The Lin Family cultivators around them became resolute, staring fiercely at Fang Chen with killing intent in their eyes.


    "Senior Sister, there¡¯s nothing to worry about now. Senior Lin is just a Foundation Building Realm cultivator; he won''tst a move against Fang Da," said Xia Ji with a smile.


    A strange look appeared on Wu Ruochou¡¯s face. She should be about to witness Fang Chen¡¯s abilities for herself now, the abilities Xia Ji had been telling her about non-stop.


    "I won''tst a move against him?" The Lin Family Head was taken aback for a moment, then a smile crept onto his face. "Are you trying to unsettle me with those words?"


    "Shouldn¡¯t you be thinking about how Fang Chen appeared just now?¡± said Xia Ji with a half-smile.


    The Lin Family head''s expression changed abruptly. That was something he hadn¡¯t thought about. Fang Chen appeared without any warning. Even a Foundation Building Realm expert like him hadn¡¯t been able to sense anything!


    Xia Ji smiled. "Senior Lin, I''ll return Jue Wudi''s words to you now: Have a smooth journey to the Yellow Springs Road. I won¡¯t be sending you off."


    A sword light shed before their eyes.


    Little Sword pierced through the Lin Family Head¡¯s forehead before he could react. After which, the same fate befell the dozen or so Lin Family cultivators that hade with him, with bloody holes appearing in each of their foreheads in the blink of an eye.


    The fire elemental energy that had been controlled by the Lin Family Head immediately dissipated, but Fang Chen promptly used his own fire elemental energy to incinerate the corpses before him.


    Xia Ji eagerly went forward to collect the spoils of battle.


    Wu Ruochou stared nkly at Fang Chen, finding it hard to imagine how a Foundation Building Realm cultivator and a dozen Qi Refining Realm disciples could die so silently. The Lin Family Head got killed so fast he didn¡¯t even have the chance to utter a single word before he was in.


    "Young Master Fang, are you a sword cultivator?" asked Wu Ruochou while forcing a bitter smile.


    She finally understood why Fang Chen''s skills were so terrifying. He had to be a sword cultivator, there was no other exnation for it.


    Fang Chen smiled and nodded.


    By now, Xia Ji had already collected the spoils, including three storage rings.


    The Lin Family Head left behind one storage ring containing a mid-grade, yellow-rank spiritual treasure with twenty Soul Imprints.


    Since the treasure had been stored in the storage ring, it meant that the Lin Family Head didn¡¯t know any Soul Imprint refinement arts.


    Fang Chen smiled as he collected the treasures. "I''ll take the spiritual treasures and you can keep the spirit stones and herbs."


    "Fang Da, how did you know that the Lin Family Head wasing to kill us?" asked Xia Ji quietly.


    "I happened to overhear Jue Wudi and Fang Lingxing plotting against you guys," replied Fang Chen.


    Wu Ruochou murmured, "It seems like Jue Wudi is just as you said...."


    "Senior Sister, do you believe me now? Jue Wudi is nothing but a beast in human skin," said Xia Ji.


    Wu Ruochou''s expression turned serious, and she said, "Now that a Foundation Building Realm cultivator is dead, he probably won''t let this go easily.¡±


    "Let''s just pretend this never happened." Fang Chen smiled. "I''m going back now."


    He waved his hand and turned to fly down the mountain.


    "But how can we pretend it never happened? A Foundation Building Realm expert just died," muttered Wu Ruochou.


    "Sister, listen to what Fang Da said. It''s true." Xia Ji smiled. "The death of one Foundation Building Realm cultivator is nothing. Besides Jue Wudi and Fang Lingxing, no one would know that the Lin Family Head died in the Profound Void Temple. Furthermore, we won¡¯t leave any evidence behind.¡±


    "That''s true," said Wu Ruochou thoughtfully.


    She waved her hand and earth and wood elemental energies surged around her, causing the scorched ground to return to normal, and the burnt grass to grow back to its original state.


    With that, the marks of the battle had been erased.


    No one had even noticed that Fang Chen had gone out ande back by the time he returned to his room.


    Fang Chen took out the spoils of battle and fed them one by one to Little Sword.


    As it hadn''t eaten for a few days, Little Sword started to eagerly feast on those treasures. As it consumed each treasure, Fang Chen felt its aura growing stronger. He also felt his Sword Body improve slightly.


    "Looks like I¡¯m not too far from the third-rank sword body now," muttered Fang Chen softly to himself.

 Chapter 346: Flustered

    <h4>Chapter 346: Flustered</h4>


    The next day, several pieces of news were spreading wildly in the Grand Qian Imperial Capital:


    The first piece of news was how the Fang Family''s genius, Fang Lingxing, was attacked the day before and narrowly escaped death.


    The second was that the Fang Family''s third branch member Fang Chen, a 12th stage Qi Refining Realm cultivator, triumphed over Fang Lingxing in the third branch Minor Competition, bing the number one genius among Fang Family¡¯s younger generation.


    The third was how an amazing treasure appeared again in the Immortal Origin District after a hundred years. Fang Chen sessfully extracted a mid-grade spirit stone, selling it for ten thousand low-grade spirit stones.


    Finally, the Lin Family''s head and several high-level Qi Refining Realm cultivators from the Lin Family didn''t return all night, and their whereabouts were still unknown.


    The fourth piece of news didn''t attract too much attention. At most, it was discussed among some people in the outer city. As for the people in the inner city, they were more curious about Fang Chen.


    Two of the hot pieces of news were rted to him.


    Being a 12th Qi Refining Realm cultivator was nothing special, and whether Fang Lingxing or Fang Chen was the number one among the younger generation of the Fang Family didn''t concern them.


    But the news about the Immortal Origin District caused a stir among many cultivators in the Imperial Capital. Ten thousand low-grade spirit stones! That was an astronomical number that they found hard to imagine!


    Early in the morning, Fang Jue and Fang Yun, apanied by a dignified young man, arrived at the courtyard.


    "Who is this?" Fang Chen walked out and casually asked when he saw the two apanied by a stranger.


    The young man smiled warmly. "Brother Fang Chen, I am Qian Jiuye."


    He had a friendly smile and lively eyes that were constantly sizing up Fang Chen. When he saw how Fang Chen¡¯s eyes remained closed, he couldn''t help but be surprised inwardly. <i>He¡¯s really blind?</i>


    "Fang Chen, this is the Ninth Prince," introduced Fang Jue.


    <i>He¡¯s someone from the imperial family? </i>


    Fang Chen nodded lightly and sped his fists. "Greetings, Ninth Prince."


    Qian Jiuye smiled. "Don''t be so polite. Today, I asked Fang Jue to bring me here to ask you for a favor."


    Fang Yun''s expression wasplicated. Even a prince came to seek Fang Chen out. Fang Jue wasn''t qualified enough for that.


    "What''s the matter? Ninth Prince, please," said Fang Chen.


    "It''s simple. I made an appointment with my second brother to gamble at the Immortal Origin District today, and I want to invite Brother Fang Chen to oversee it," said Qian Jiuye. "Brother Fang Chen, rest assured, I understand the rules. I will pay fifty low-grade spirit stones for each Immortal Origin Stone, and in addition, if you win the bet, you will get one-tenth of the winnings."


    Fang Chen smiled and said, "Brother Jiuye, I''m blind. Do you still want me to take part in your bet? The Immortal Origin Stone I found the other day was just a fluke."


    "Fang Chen, luck matters in things like opening Immortal Origin Stones. I think you are lucky. It''s okay to help Brother Jiuye and earn yourself some spirit stones. If you lose the bet, you won¡¯t have to worry about anything. The Ninth Prince has agreed to the conditions. That is why I brought him to look for you..." said Fang Jue.


    Qian Jiuye immediately nodded and said, "Yes, it''s okay to lose the bet. There is an Immortal Origin Stone expert on my second brother''s side. If I fail to switch things around, I am destined to lose. Now I''m trying a desperate measure."


    Fang Chen pondered, then asked, "How will it take ce?"


    Qian Jiuye understood that his final chance had arrived and he quickly replied, "My second brother and I agreed to have the match at the Jade River Pavilion.


    "When the timees, Young Master Tong Baizhou from Jade River Pavilion will bring out a hundred Immortal Origin Stones from his collection, and we will each choose ten to gamble with."


    Fang Chen smiled. "As Fang Jue said, I can''t guarantee whether you''ll win or lose, Brother Jiuye, but I can go and watch the fun. As for a fee for me helping you, there''s no need for something like that."


    "No, no, that fee must be paid." Qian Jiuye immediately took out five hundred low-grade spirit stones and handed them to Fang Chen. "I''ll pay in advance to avoid troubleter."


    "Fang Chen, please ept it," said Fang Jue, feeling a bit envious.


    When a martial artist like Li Cang saw this scene, he couldn''t help but sigh. His young master earned spirit stones faster than he could rob them.


    ***


    Immortal Origin District, Jade River Pavilion.


    Since it was well known that a bet between two imperial princes, the second prince, Qian Feng, and the ninth prince, Qian Jiuye, the Jade River Pavilion was much livelier than usual today, with hundreds and thousands of cultivators entering and exiting the hall.


    The servants were busy, and Immortal Origin Stones were continuously being sold, bringing in a steady stream of spirit stones.


    The knowledgeable cultivators who saw this scene were filled with envy. Many people would lose everything they had on gambling Immortal Origin Stones, but ces like the Jade River Pavilion were making a fortune every day, bing extremely wealthy!


    Because of what happened with Fang Chenst time, the entire Immortal Origin District, which had been sealed for many years, was now selling Immortal Origin Stones at extremely low prices, and they were being snatched up by people frantically. The Jade River Pavilion was no exception; a batch of Immortal Origin Stones in stock was almost sold out within a morning.


    Everyone wanted to replicate the scene from Fang Chen''s day.


    "Prince Qian Jiuye is here."


    Someone with sharp eyes spotted Qian Jiuye and the others entering Jade River Pavilion.


    "Huh, isn''t that Fang Chen?"


    "It really is him. Did Prince Qian Jiuye invite him? Looks like today''s gambling match is going to be interesting!"


    The cultivators became extremely excited.


    Tong Baizhou was originally weing guests, but when he saw Fang Chen and the others, a smile appeared on his face, and he stepped forward to greet them.


    "Prince Qian Jiuye, you''vee early today."


    He then nodded gently at Fang Chen as a sign of acknowledgment.


    Fang Chen also nodded slightly in return.


    "Master Tong, has my second brother not arrived yet? There''s only half an hour left until the agreed time," said Qian Jiuye with a faint smile.


    Facing Tong Baizhou, Qian Jiuye didn''t show the same enthusiasm he had shown Fang Chen earlier, but rather, he disyed a bit of indifference.


    Tong Baizhou smiled. "The Second Prince should be on his way."


    "In that case, please bring out the hundred Immortal Origin Stones for me to inspect," said Qian Jiuye.


    Tong Baizhou looked a bit embarrassed. "Um... ording to the rules, we have to wait until both sides are present before we can take out the Immortal Origin Stones."


    "The rules are dead; people are alive," said Qian Jiuye.


    Suddenly, a faint voice sounded from behind the crowd. "Brother Qian Jiuye, you''re not being fair. Why make things difficult for Master Tong? Rules are rules, and as long as we''re alive, we must abide by them."


    Fang Chen nced over at the source of the voice.


    Behind them stood a group of young men and women, including the formidable Jue Wudi and Fang Lingxing. These people''s cultivation levels were no lower than the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm.


    The person who spoke just now was now standing next to Jue Wudi. He had a gentle face, a slender figure, and emitted the aura of the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm.


    Jue Wudi and Fang Lingxing furrowed their brows slightly, their gazes falling on Fang Chen.


    "He''s here too?"


    Qian Jiuye''s turned a little serious when his gazended on them. He smiled without much sincerity and said, "Second Brother, why isn''t Master Wu, the Immortal Origin Stone Master, here? I''m afraid you won''t stand a chance against me by yourself, right?"


    Suddenly, just as Qian Jiuye had said that, there was amotion outside.


    "The price has shot up! What''s inside has to be worth at least three hundred low-grade spirit stones!"


    Everyone was taken aback. Did someone just cut open something valuable?


    Qian Feng suddenly chuckled. "Master Wu happened to see a good Immortal Origin Stone on our way here and bought it. That must be what increased in value just now."


    The surrounding cultivators were amazed at the news.


    Qian Jiuye''s expression changed slightly, and hisplexion didn''t look too good.


    "Brother Qian Jiuye, let''s go see what Master Wu has opened," said Qian Feng with a faint smile, leading the way out of the Jade River Pavilion with his entourage.

 Chapter 347: Master Wu

    <h4>Chapter 347: Master Wu</h4>


    Near the Jade River Pavilion, spectators crowded around.


    A middle-aged man in a blue robe smiled contentedly as he looked at the half-opened Immortal Origin Stone in his hand.


    Inside was a crimson fruit with a radiant surface and rich spiritual power, making people want to swallow it at first sight.


    "This is a Spirit Essence Fruit, a top-grade, yellow-rank spiritual herb!" eximed one of the more experienced spectators. "With such rich spiritual power, it must be at least a hundred years old!"


    "It isn''t inferior to top-grade, yellow-rank pills even if it''s only directly consumed, right?"


    "Exactly, that''s why it''s priced at three hundred spirit stones. It''s not avable all the time, too."


    "The Spirit Essence Fruit is a versatile medicine. It could be used to concoct low-grade, mid-grade, high-grade, or even top-grade pills of the yellow rank."


    "If an alchemist was around, he wouldn''t hold out on buying for at least four hundred low-grade spirit stones."


    "Master Wu, you only spent twenty low-grade spirit stones to buy that impressive Immortal Origin Stone from a small store. Your skills are truly exquisite, I admire you!"


    The shopkeeper ttered, "I wonder if this Spirit Essence Fruit can be sold to me? I''ll offer a high price."


    "The shopkeeper knows how to do business. The trade conference is about to begin, and there will be strong alchemists present. When that happens, the value of this Spirit Essence Fruit could double, right?"


    Master Wu smiled lightly and politely declined the shopkeeper''s proposal.


    Apuse rang through the air.


    When everyone looked over and saw that Prince Qian Feng wasing over, they quickly made way for him.


    Prince Qian Feng was a frequenter of the Immortal Origin District, so the experts there were not unfamiliar with him.


    "Master Wu, I greatly admire your aplishments in the Immortal Origin District," said Prince Qian Feng with a big smile.


    ¡°Please forgive me for my humble skills. This is just a hobby for me, and I only dabble in it in my spare time. For us cultivators, cultivation is the top priority and cannot be neglected,¡± said Master Wu modestly.


    Spare time?


    The people around were even more impressed now, as they invested a lot of their day into this yet they hadn''t been able to develop a keen eye like Master Wu.


    Watching Master Wu from within the crowd, Qian Jiuye looked somewhat serious.


    Fang Jue and Fang Yun exchanged a nce, both seeing the worry in each other''s eyes.


    If Qian Jiuye were to lose today, he''d probably have to endure a lot of ridicule whenever he met Qian Feng from now on.


    "You''re too modest, Master Wu. Today, having you and Master Fang both opening Immortal Origin Stones together at the Jade River Pavilion is a major event," said Tong Baizhou suddenly with a smile.


    Master Fang?


    Master Wu furrowed his brows slightly, a hint of confusion shing in his eyes.


    Someone with sharp eyes saw Fang Chen and eximed, "That person from the Fang Family is also here!"


    "It''s him! He opened a mid-grade spirit stone not long ago and broke the record in the Immortal Origin District!"


    People began discussing excitedly, their expressions showing excitement and eagerness.


    An Immortal Origin Stone that sold for one low-grade spirit stone had been opened to reveal a mid-grade spirit stone worth over ten thousand low-grade spirit stones.


    This event was legendary, and it had be the talk of the city over the past couple of days. Add to that the fact that Fang Chen had a very mysterious background and the news became a hot topic¡ªa disciple of the Fang Family who came back to acknowledge his ancestry, and who was blind.


    Using his method of identifying Immortal Origin Stones by sound, he obtained a mid-grade spirit stone worth ten thousand!


    "So it''s him." Master Wu looked at Fang Chem. There was a sliver of mockery in his eyes. "A master? Does he even deserve the title?"


    Opening Immortal Origin Stones relying only on luck was bound to lead to a big loss sooner orter.


    ¡°<i>Senior Brother Jue, it seems that Prince Jiuye brought that person here to help him. Looks like he¡¯s out of options</i>,¡± transmitted Fang Lingxing to Jue Wudi, unable to help herself.


    Although Fang Chen was strong, she didn''t believe that Fang Chen had studied anything about Immortal Origin Stones. It had to have been pure luck.


    Immortal Origin Stones originated from a first-tier empire and were only prevalent in certain fifth-tier empires nowadays.


    How could a rural bumpkin like Fang Chen have had the opportunity toe into contact with Immortal Origin Stones before?


    Jue Wudi nodded lightly. "<i>Luck can only be relied on once.</i>"


    A trace of worry appeared in Fang Lingxing''s eyes. "<i>Senior Brother Jue, I heard that the head of the Lin Family and others disappeared. Did Master Chanyuan return to the Profound Void Temple?</i>¡±


    Jue Wudi frowned slightly. "<i>Master Chanyuan has been in the Jue Family since thepetition in your Fang Family ended yesterday. There should be another reason behind the disappearance of the Lin Family Head....</i>¡±


    "<i>Who could have secretly acted?</i>" asked Fang Lingxing, slightly annoyed.


    "<i>It''s not necessarily the case that someone interfered. It''s also possible that the head of the Lin Family didn''t want to offend Master Chanyuan and took his people away to avoid trouble and to hide from me,</i>" Jue Wudi transmitted, a faint cold smile crossing his eyes.


    Fang Lingxing pondered over what he said.


    "Master Wu, have you heard of this Master Fang before? Prince Jiuye invited him today to assist him," said Qian Feng with a smile that wasn''t quite a smile.


    Master Wu chuckled softly. "I have indeed heard of him. Master Fang''s methods are unfathomable. With just a low-grade spirit stone, he gained ten thousand in profit. In this regard, who among us here today canpare to him? Even the old predecessors who have immersed themselves in this field for hundreds of years may not have achieved such remarkable results when they were young."


    The expressions of the crowd were strange, clearly hearing a hint of sarcasm in his tone.


    Qian Jiuye suddenly smiled. "So Master Fang Chen is much more powerful than those old predecessors. I believe Master Wu doesn''t deny that, right?"


    Master Wu was slightly taken aback and made a soft grunt, choosing not to speak further.


    Seeing this, Tong Baizhou quickly butted in, saying, "Alright, everyone, let''s go to my Jade River Pavilion and take a short break. I''ll prepare to bring out the hundred hidden Immortal Origin Stones for you to admire."


    "Let''s go then." Qian Feng chuckled lightly, his gaze falling on Qian Jiuye. "Little Brother, if you lose this time, how will you behave when you see me in the future?"


    "If I lose, I will certainly bow three times and kowtow nine times whenever I run into you," said Jiuye coldly.


    "Hahaha!" Qian Feng burst intoughter and led Master Wu to follow Tong Baizhou toward the Jade River Pavilion.


    The people around heard their conversation and their expressions became quite strange.


    Fang Jue smiled bitterly. "Prince Jiuye, isn''t the stake too high for this bet?"


    Qian Jiuye calmly replied, "It''s fine. If I really lose, I''ll just avoid him in the future. There would be no need for the three bows and nine kowtows then."


    Fang Jue and Fang Yun nced at each other, their expressionsplex.


    Qian Jiuye suddenlyughed confidently. "Besides, with Master Fang here, I might not lose!"


    Despite his confidence, Fang Jue and Fang Yun both felt that... even with Fang Chen present, Qian Jiuye''s chances of winning were probably still slim.


    Master Wu was truly skilled. It was said that he had studied under a senior who was highly knowledgeable in the ways of Immortal Origin Stones.


    The Jade River Pavilion was crowded, with over a thousand cultivators who often frequented the Immortal Origin Districting over to watch. All of them had excited expressions on their faces.


    Not only will they be able to have a look at the treasures of the Jade River Pavilion shortly, but they''ll also be able to witness a bet between two princes!


    Both sides took their seats and with a singlemand from Tong Baizhou, all one hundred pieces of Immortal Origin Stones were moved to the front hall by his subordinates.


    They varied in size, with the smallest being three feet long and thergest reaching about ten feet in length and width!


    Fortunately, the Jade River Pavilion was spacious enough to amodate so many Immortal Jade Stones and thousands of spectators. Even with so many people present, they had lots of space left.

 Chapter 348: Enormous Wager

    <h4>Chapter 348: Enormous Wager</h4>


    "These Immortal Origin Stones from the Jade River Pavilion are truly exquisite, the epitome of top-tier treasures!"


    "Just by looking at them, you can tell they''re extremely valuable. I don''t think we can afford to y with them."


    The crowd reacted as if they were gamblers presented with chips or ruffians encountering a rare beauty. Their eyes were filled with greed, and the allure of these Immortal Origin Stones for them sometimes surpassed even martial arts and techniques!


    "Second Prince, Ninth Prince, ording to your agreement, I will act as the intermediary." Tong Baizhou smiled and said, "The rule is that each side selects an Immortal Origin Stone until they gather ten of them. When that happens, the bet will begin. You guys can decide who starts first.¡±


    Qian Jiuye smiled. "How about letting me pick first, Second Brother?"


    Qian Feng shook his head lightly. "There''s no such rule. We''ll draw lots to decide who goes first."


    Neither of them was willing to back down, so Tong Baizhou immediately prepared the equipment for drawing lots.


    Meanwhile, Master Wu had already begun carefully appraising the Immortal Origin Stones.


    The gazes of the surrounding cultivators also lingered on the Immortal Origin Stones, asionally letting out sighs of amazement.


    "Thank goodness we made it in time!"


    A group of descendants from the Fang family suddenly rushed into the Jade River Pavilion, including those from the main branch, second branch, third branch, and fourth branch.


    Fang Hao was immediately relieved when he saw that the match hadn''t yet started.


    "That''s Master Wu by the Second Prince''s side. He''s already appraising the Immortal Origin Stones. Why hasn''t Fang Chen made a move yet?"


    "He¡¯s blind! Is he really going to rely on listening to pick the stones?"


    "Fang Chen, do you want to go forward and take a look?" whispered Fang Jue.


    Fang Chen remained motionless. He didn''t react to Fang Jue''s words at all.


    Fang Jue''s face immediately revealed a hint of embarrassment.


    Master Wu, who was appraising the Immortal Origin Stones, turned to nce at Fang Chen, and the mockery on his face became even more pronounced.


    A guy who relies on luck to y with Immortal Origin Stones, what does he know about appraising their quality?


    Currently, Fang Chen''s divine soul was standing before the hundred Immortal Origin Stones.


    He only had ten chances to take his picks¡ªor rather, he only had nine, as he couldn''t deplete the power of his divine soulpletely.


    Master Wu''s expertise in appraising Immortal Origin Stones was indeed remarkable, sopared to him, Fang Chen didn''t really know much about Immortal Origin Stones.


    Compared to Master Wu in front of him, Fang Chen didn''t have a significant advantage.


    Fang Chen chuckled and thought, <i>I¡¯ll just pick two or three good ones. If we still lose, we can only consider Qian Jiuye to be an unlucky fellow.</i>


    He never promised Qian Jiuye that he''d win him this bet. He only came here to seize an opportunity to get acquainted with Tong Baizhou.


    He also wanted to see if there were any Spirit Blood Sect cultivators beside Tong Baizhou in the Jade River Pavilion.


    Since Tong Baizhou was the young master, there had to be a patriarch behind him. That person would most likely be in the Golden Core Realm.


    Jue Wudi nced at Fang Chen before sending a sneaky transmission to Qian Feng, ¡°<i>Second Prince, Fang Chen earned over ten thousand low-grade spirit stones recently. Why not take this opportunity and make a bet with him as well?</i>"


    Qian Feng''s eyes lit up, immediately turning to Qian Jiuye with a smile. "Ninth Brother, since the bet is just between us two, it feels a bit monotonous."


    "Second Brother, what else do you have in mind?" asked Qian Jiuye casually.


    Qian Feng grinned. "I want to add some excitement; how about making a bet with Master Fang?"


    The crowd was surprised, and they subconsciously looked toward Fang Chen.


    Qian Jiuye''s eyes flickered. If Fang Chen was dragged into the bet, he would benefit greatly. However...


    The bet was originally between Qian Feng and himself, and he didn''t see any reason they should involve anyone else.


    Thinking of this, Qian Jiuye directly shook his head and refused, "Master Fang is just here because I invited him to help me with the appraisal. He isn''t here to bet."


    Fang Jue heaved a sigh of relief after hearing what Qian Jiuye said.


    Qian Feng nced at Fang Chen with a half-smile. "Ninth Brother, Master Fang hasn''t said anything yet. How do you know he doesn''t want to bet with me?"


    Fang Chen suddenly opened his eyes. "What''s the bet?"


    "It''s simple, just add some stakes." Qian Feng smiled. "What do you think, Master Fang?"


    Fang Lingxing frowned slightly. She was about to speak but was stopped by Jue Wudi''s gaze.


    "<i>Brother Jue, Fang Chen is destined not to get his hands on those spirit stones the ancestor promised him. If he bets against the second prince and loses, he won''t be able to fork out the spirit stones to settle the bet,</i>" Fang Lingxing transmitted to Jue Wudi.


    Jue Wudi replied, "<i>In that case, wouldn''t the Second Prince go after him?</i>"


    Fang Lingxing''s expression suddenly became strange. If Fang Chen couldn''t fork out the spirit stones to settle the bet, he might face severe consequences from the second prince, making it difficult for him to survive in the capital.


    <i>Getting rid of him by using the second prince.... Not a bad idea,</i> thought Fang Lingxing.


    Fang Chen smiled. "I wonder how much you n to bet, Second Prince."


    Fang Jue hurriedly transmitted, "<i>Fang Chen, don''t agree if you''re not confident.</i>"


    Qian Jiuye didn''t say anything. Since Fang Chen was interested, he was also happy to proceed.


    Qian Feng smiled and said, "It doesn''t have to be a big bet, just ten thousand low-grade spirit stones."


    Qian Jiuye couldn''t help but gasp in surprise. "Second Brother, that¡¯s a huge bet. can you even bring out ten thousand low-grade spirit stones?"


    The crowd looked at each other, their expressions gradually bing excited.


    They knew that Fang Chen would definitely be able to fork out ten thousand low-grade spirit stones.


    Tong Baizhou''s eyes flickered as a smile appeared on his face. He looked at Qian Feng, then at Jue Wudi.


    "Ninth Brother, you''re underestimating me too much." Qian Feng chuckled, slowly taking out a jade cauldron. "This is the Demon-Sealing Cauldron, bestowed to me by Father Emperor ten years ago. It has a total of seventy soul seals, something even a Golden Core Realm cultivator may not possess. It''s valued at five thousand low-grade spirit stones."


    After that, Qian Feng also took out three thousand low-grade spirit stones from his storage ring.


    The various cultivators around took a sharp breath, their eyes turning red.


    A high-grade, yellow-rank spiritual treasure along with three thousand low-grade spirit stones!


    Any one of these items would be a rare find in their lifetime.


    And yet Qian Feng had taken them out effortlessly, showing how terrifying the depth of the Grand Qian Imperial Family was.


    Qian Jiuye sneered and said, "Those are worth eight thousand spirit stones."


    Master Wu suddenly spoke. "I have a spiritual treasure, with only forty soul seals. But it''s still a high-grade, yellow-rank spiritual treasure worth two thousand low-grade spirit stones. Combined, they are worth ten thousand. Master Fang, are you willing to take the bet?¡±


    "What a huge bet!"


    "How many years has it been since the Immortal Origin District saw such huge stakes?"


    The discussions continued incessantly.


    "Alright, let''s bet," said Fang Chen with a faint smile.


    "Why did he agree..." Fang Yun''s expression changed suddenly, and he subconsciously looked at Fang Jue.


    Fang Jue''s face was serious. He only sighed softly without saying anything.


    Among the crowd, the members of the Fang Family looked at each other anxiously.


    This was a bet of ten thousand low-grade spirit stones. Regardless of who won or lost, someone would leave today feeling regretful....


    Seeing Fang Chen agree, Qian Fengughed heartily and turned to Master Wu. "Master Wu, this prince''s fate and fortune are now in your hands. Don''t let me down."


    Master Wu''s lips curled slightly upwards as a look of confidence shed in his eyes.


    "You can rest assured, Second Prince."

 Chapter 349: Choosing the Smaller Ones

    <h4>Chapter 349: Choosing the Smaller Ones</h4>


    Even if two high-grade, yellow rank treasures couldn''t help Little Sword advance to the third rank, they would be enough to further strengthen his sword body. Fang Chen reckoned he''d be able to deal withte-stage Foundation Building Realm cultivators or even those at the grandpletion stage without needing to resort to the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture by then.


    The stronger the sword body became before he advanced to the Foundation Building Realm, the stronger his defensive capabilities would be.


    Fang Chen''s divine soul left his body once again. This time, he was extremely serious. He ignored the huge Immortal Origin Stone and chose those of moderate sizes. After observing for a while, his spiritual energy became depleted as it turned transparent.


    Suddenly, strong wood elemental energy surged forth.


    Fang Chen felt as though he had entered an ancient forest. Every breath he took in was filled with rich spiritual energy.


    When the anomaly disappeared, Fang Chen spotted a dry branch inside the Stone.


    Fang Chen felt somewhat uncertain. "A dry branch? If there was an anomaly with the Immortal Origin Stone, the contents inside definitely wouldn''t be so simple. What''s the origin of this dry branch...?"


    The cultivation world contained a wide variety of things, and his knowledge wasn''t enough to easily assess the value of any item he came across. This dry branch was not simple, but he also didn''t have a clear idea of its specific valuepared to mid-grade spirit stones.


    With that in mind, Fang Chen looked at Master Wu. Although it seemed like Master Wu had put a lot of effort into observing a single Immortal Origin Stone, his gaze kept flickering to another one nearby. Clearly, he was being cautious.


    Seeing this, Fang Chen directly used his divine soul to examine both stones. Although they didn''t exhibit anything strange, they both contained something valuable. One contained a transparent crystal resembling a diamond, while the other contained a withered hand!


    Just as Fang Chen saw this, the person who''d go first was decided.


    Qian Feng won, and he looked triumphantly at Master Wu. "Master Wu, you may choose the Immortal Origin Stone now."


    Master Wu smiled and picked the Stone he had been secretly observing. This Stone was worth four hundred low-grade spirit stones.


    Subconsciously, Qian Jiuye looked at Fang Chen, only to see Fang Chen pointing to the other stone.


    "That one."


    "This one?!"


    "The stone Master Wu chose was obviously of excellent quality. Fang Chen chose a pretty decent one, butpared to those around it, it looks slightly inferior."


    "It''s also priced at only two hundred low-grade spirit stones."


    Whispers spread among the crowd.


    Qian Jiuye stepped forward to make the payment without hesitation.


    "Prince Jiuye, I''ll be the one paying since I''m taking part in this bet," said Fang Chen as he took out two hundred low-grade spirit stones and handed them to Tong Baizhou.


    Qian Jiuye was taken aback for a moment, then a smile appeared on his face. "It seems that you''re quite confident, Master Fang."


    The more confident Fang Chen was, the better Qian Jiuye felt.


    After each side selected their Stones once, it was Master Wu''s turn to choose once more. However, each selection required careful observation and he couldn''t easily reveal his target, so the process wasn''t fast.


    Master Wu seemed a bit hasty in his selections, not spending much time pondering over each Stone. However, with Fang Chen''s powerful divine soul, his subtle movements were easily seen through.


    The slower the opponent picked, the better for Fang Chen, as his spiritual energy was slowly recovering. Following this rhythm, he could gain more opportunities to find a better Immortal Origin Stone.


    Before long, both sides made their choices.


    Half an hour had passed by now.


    The cultivators at the scene had grown nervous. Every time the two selected an Immortal Origin Stone, they''d use their experience to judge the probability of the Stones containing valuable items.


    Fang Chen looked at the Immortal Origin Stones and realized they contained nothing good, but Master Wu seemed particrly interested in them.


    "Would any of you two consider this Immortal Origin Stone?" said Tong Baizhou, pointing to one of the Stones while wearing a smile on his face. The Stone was about a foot long and wide.


    A strange look appeared on the faces of the crowd.


    Qian Feng sneered. "Young Master Tong, this Immortal Origin Stone is priced at four thousand low-grade spirit stones. If it turns out to be a loss, even I will regret it for years toe."


    The crowd in agreement.


    Indeed. This Immortal Origin Stone wasrge, and the chances of cutting out something valuable from it were high. But what exactly was inside? No one knew. Perhaps it was just a pile of useless spiritual materials.


    Facing the high price of four thousand low-grade spirit stones, neither Qian Jiuye nor Qian Feng bothered to consider it.


    Tong Baizhou chuckled and said, "To be honest, this Immortal Origin Stone has a bit of a background. It was once buried deep beneath the tomb of a sword cultivator!"


    The crowd chuckled along.


    "Even if it belonged to a sword cultivator, they wouldn''t have the ability to ce items inside an Immortal Origin Stone, right? So, that doesn''t have anything to do with the value of the Stone."


    Fang Chen''s divine soul turned to inspect it.


    HIs spiritual energy suddenly began to deplete rapidly, catching even Fang Chen off guard.


    He originally had two or three chances left to observe the remaining Immortal Origin Stones, but with how quickly his spiritual energy depleted, there was probably no way for him to do that now. If it weren''t for him increasing the capacity of his spiritual energy afterprehending the scripture in the Profound Void Temple, he would have been knocked unconscious on the spot.


    The next moment, powerful sword intent pounced at him.


    Little Sword reacted immediately.


    "Little Chen, there''s a sword inside this stone, and I want to devour it!"


    Fang Chen''s thoughts stirred slightly. <i>Such a strong sword intent. Could it be a top-grade, yellow rank spiritual treasure?</i>


    Coincidentally, Master Wu had already picked his tenth piece, and his gaze fell on Fang Chen.


    "You can choose yourst Immortal Origin Stone now," said Master Wu.


    Fang Chen pointed to thergest Stone around. "I''ll take this one."


    Varying degrees of surprise appeared on the faces of those present.


    "Does this guy think that just because the Stone is overpriced that it''ll definitely have something valuable inside? If it incurs a loss, the oue of the bet wouldn¡¯t be the only thing affected!"


    "Master Fang, are you not going to reconsider?" Qian Jiuye felt a slight tingling in his scalp and quickly whispered, "This Stone is too expensive. We¡¯re going for profits today, and if this one incurs a loss, the profits from the previous ones may not cover the gap."


    Fang Chen smiled and took out four thousand low-grade spirit stones. "Your Highness, I''ll pay for this myself."


    Everyone was amazed at Fang Chen''s wealth.


    They assumed that the money came from the Fang Family¡¯s Golden Core Realm Ancestor, but in reality, Jue Wudi and some others knew that the low-grade spirit stones hadn''t been delivered to Fang Chen yet.


    Could Fang Chen''s wealth be far beyond their imagination?


    The more they thought of it, the more likely it became. Jue Wudi and Fang Lingxing nced at each other and noticed the astonishment in each other''s eyes.


    "Now that Master Fang has spent four thousand two hundred low-grade spirit stones, I won''t question his judgment. We¡¯ll take it!" said Qian Jiuye, clenching his teeth.


    Out of the ten Immortal Origin Stones, Fang Chen paid for two out of his own pocket, and the remaining eight only cost him three thousand low-grade spirit stones in total. Fang Chen''s investment was higher than his, so Qian Jiuye didn''t waste any more words.


    Qian Feng couldn''t help but chuckle. "Ninth Brother, you''re treating him like your savior, but he might end up disappointing you. We always choose the smaller ones when gambling in order to lower our risk. He doesn''t even understand this basic rule. How can hepete with Master Wu if that''s the case?"


    When Qian Feng said "small," he wasn''t referring to the size but rather the value of the Stones.


    Now that Fang Chen had spent a whopping four thousand low-grade spirit stones to buy an Immortal Origin Stone, even if the remaining nine Immortal Origin Stones yielded four thousand low-grade spirit stones worth of profit, they would barely break even if thergest one was useless!


    What were the chances that all nine remaining Immortal Origin Stones would yield something valuable anyway?

 Chapter 350: Arm of a Golden Core Realm Expert

    Chapter 350: Arm of a Golden Core Realm Expert


    Qian Jiuye smiled faintly and said, "Second Brother, we haven¡¯t even started. How can you know who the winner is? If Master Wu really has such extraordinary skills, why would he need to listen to your orders?"


    Qian Feng smiled and didn''t say anything more.


    While Master Wu indeed couldn''t predict every oue, his profound experience was not something ordinary people couldpare with.


    Seeing that both sides had chosen their Immortal Origin Stones, Tong Baizhou smiled and said, "Today''s stone gambling involves two prominent figures, so I have invited my father toe out of seclusion. He specially rushed over to the imperial capital for the asion, and he mentioned that he''d personally evaluate the worth of everything these Stones contain. Do you have any objections?"


    Everyone was shocked!


    The owner of the Jade River Pavilion?! The mysterious Golden Core Realm practitioner who rarely appeared in public, the one who was rumored to have opened an immortal cave in a ce with abundant spiritual energy in the Grand Qian Empire and spent years in seclusion cultivating?


    The pavilion''s daily affairs were usually handled by Tong Baizhou. But now, his father was actuallying personally to oversee the event!


    This was Qian Jiuye and Qian Feng''s first time learning about this too, so their expressions turned more serious.


    Even though they were princes, they weren''t even at the Foundation Building Realm, so facing a Golden Core Realm cultivator still made them feel uneasy.That person from the Jade River Pavilion was often able to discuss and exchange views with the ancestors of the imperial family. Even their father, the emperor of the Grand Qian Empire, would respectfully address himself as a junior whenever they met!


    Hardly had Tong Baizhou announced this when everyone saw a sh appear before their eyes.


    A figure had appeared next to Tong Baizhou.


    "Father," Tong Baizhou said respectfully.


    ¡°Greetings, Senior Tong!¡±


    Whether it was the people in the crowd or Qian Jiuye, Qian Feng, Jue Wudi, they all bowed respectfully toward this person.


    Fang Chen''s divine soul quietly observed the neer.


    The person was dressed in a in white linen robe. He didn''t wear any extra adornments, and his hair was tied with a blue cloth strip. He appeared young and seemed to only be in his forties. But his eyes were filled with vicissitudes as if he had experienced hundreds of years of life.


    Fang Chen''s eyes were serious. <em>Tong Baizhou and Jue Wudi are Spirit Blood Sect cultivators, and this person... most likely is also from the Spirit Blood Sect.</em>


    ording to what Fang Chen knew about how the Spirit Blood Sect operated, this person was highly likely arranged by the Spirit Blood Sect as their leader in the Grand Qian Empire.


    Tong Hu nodded slightly. He nced at Qian Jiuye and Qian Feng, smiled faintly, and asked, "Have you two chosen your Immortal Origin Stones?"


    Both of them nodded quickly.


    "Then let''s start opening them." Tong Hu smiled. "Who¡¯s first?"


    "Second Brother, you are older, so please go ahead," said Qian Jiuye.


    Qian Feng smiled. "Alright, I''ll go first then."


    He nced at Master Wu, who nodded slightly before opening the first stone.


    This Stone was the one with the hand within it.


    With Master Wu''s skilled technique, theyers were peeled away inch by inch.


    Everyone dared not even breathe loudly, their eyes fixed firmly on the stone.


    Soon, a withered palm appeared.


    "What is this?!"


    Everyone looked at each other in confusion.


    This withered palm looked ordinary and had nothing special about it, with little spiritual energy circting within.


    Master Wu furrowed his brows slightly and subconsciously looked at Qian Feng.


    Qian Feng smiled faintly and said, "No harm done. Even horses can stumble, let alone humans. Everyone makes mistakes."


    Qian Jiuye''s face showed a hint of a smile. The fact that the first Stone had turned out to be a flunk was extremely in his favor.


    Suddenly, Tong Hu showed a frown, and he stepped forward, taking the withered arm from Master Wu''s hand. "What is this¡­?"


    Everyone was taken aback. Could this arm be valuable?


    Qian Jiuye suddenly felt a bit nervous. He subconsciously nced at Fang Chen. Seeing Fang Chen''s calm demeanor, he rxed a little.


    "The owner of this arm should have been a Golden Core cultivator." Tong Hu suddenly spoke up. "There is plenty of spiritual energy in the flesh, but your cultivation levels are not enough to perceive it."


    With that, he gently tapped the arm, and immediately, the withered arm became flesh and blood again, as if it had just been severed. Vigorous blood and abundant spiritual power kept flowing out.


    "The flesh of a Golden Core Realm cultivator is different from ordinary cultivators, having been tempered by their Golden Core over the years. If an evil cultivator uses this arm to refine pills, it can also serve as a good medicinal catalyst," said Tong Hu lightly. "It''s valued at five hundred low-grade spirit stones."


    <em>Five hundred!</em>


    A slight smile curved at the corner of Master Wu''s mouth. He spent four hundred and managed to obtain a treasure worth five hundred, which meant that they had already earned a hundred low-grade spirit stones!


    Qian Feng couldn''t help but apud. "Master Wu, you''re amazing."


    "Second Prince, it''s just my luck. Without Senior Tong''s insight, even if I obtain something good, I wouldn''t recognize its value," said Master Wu said modestly while taking the chance to tter Tong Hu a bit.


    Since the first treasure of the event had been unearthed, the attention of the crowd unconsciously shifted over to Prince Qian Jiuye''s side.


    Qian Jiuye looked at Fang Chen and asked, "Master Fang, which one do you think we should open first?"


    Qing Feng grinned and said, "Why not the one worth four thousand low-grade spirit stones?"


    Fang Chen pointed to the first Immortal Origin Stone he selected while ignoring the Second Prince. "Let''s go with that one."


    He wanted to see if the Golden Core Realm expert could recognize this withered branch.


    Fang Chen personally went to open the stone, and everyone watched intently, asionally whispering among themselves.


    Tong Hu''s gaze lingered on Fang Chen for a moment. He already knew about Fang Chen opening a mid-grade spirit stone.


    Tong Hu furrowed his brows slightly. "I can''t see through his cultivation level. He must have a hidden treasure on him."


    Even someone like him who was in the Golden Core Realm couldn''t see through Fang Chen''s cultivation level. That could only mean that the treasure Fang Chen used to mask his cultivation level was pretty valuable.


    Master Wu was smiling as he watched Fang Chen''s every move, seemingly confident. He relied on experience and strength, while Fang Chen seemed to rely solely on luck.


    The oue of their bet was already predetermined.


    As the surface of the Immortal Origin Stone was peeled away bit by bit, a dried tree branch suddenly appeared before everyone''s eyes.


    Shortly after, surging wood elemental energy swept out like a wave!


    Everyone was stunned.


    The wood elemental energy filled the Jade River Pavilion, even spilling out onto the street outside.


    The experienced managers along the street immediately ordered their attendants to close shop for the time being as they made their way over to the Jade River Pavilion.


    "The Jade River Pavilion found something good again!"


    "Quick, let''s go take a look!"


    Waves of cultivators rushed into the Jade River Pavilion.


    However, Fang Chen''s movements weren''t hindered by themotion outside. He continued to reveal the treasure in his hand without damaging it in the slightest.


    Qian Feng''s eyes showed a hint of seriousness. "What is this!? Why is there such strong wood elemental energy!?"


    Master Wu''s expression froze for a moment, then he forced a smile and said, "It might be a spiritual herb. It''s okay, he just has better luck."


    Qian Feng nodded slowly.


    If it was a spiritual herb, that would be fine. Even if it was a top-grade spiritual herb, its value would only be a few hundred low-grade spirit stones.


    The real value of a spiritual herb lies in refining it into a pill.


    "Haha, Fang Jue, we definitely made a profit!"


    Qian Jiuye was somewhat excited and pulled at Fang Jue a few times.


    Fang Jue smiled. He couldn''t help but feel amazed at how good Fang Chen''s luck was.


    Last time, Fang Chen managed to make a killing. And right now, he did it again!


    Soon, the withered branch was revealed, and the wood elemental energy it releasedpletely dissipated.


    The crowd took a look at the withered branch, and they couldn''t help but feel that it wasn''t anything special.


    Even Qian Jiuye''s smile began to disappear.


    People looked at each other with strange expressions.


    Qian Feng couldn''t help but startughing. "It turns out it just umted some wood elemental energy. Turns out this item is not valuable at all!"


    Master Wu couldn''t help butugh along.

 Chapter 351: Lifespan Peach

    <h4>Chapter 351: Lifespan Peach</h4>


    "It seems that the Ninth Prince has had an unlucky start."


    "Indeed, Fang Chen is a mere neer, how can he truly understand the way of the Immortal Origin Stones? Luck can also run out."


    "They spent two hundred low-grade spirit stones on a withered branch. What a loss, a huge loss."


    People whispered among themselves.


    The shopkeepers of various stores frowned upon seeing this scene, some murmured under their breath.


    "I thought he cut open something valuable. What a waste of time. Better get back to business."


    Fang Chen''s thoughts stirred, and his divine soul emerged to look at the withered branch. "Is this item really so ordinary?"


    In his eyes, the branch had a faint green luster flowing around it. It clearly wasn''t ordinary.


    Tong Baizhou looked toward Tong Hu. "Dad, does this withered branch have any value?"


    Tong Hu gestured lightly, and the withered branch in Fang Chen''s hand immediately flew into his. He looked it over several times, then shook his head before returning it to Fang Chen''s hand. "It''s just amon withered branch. It''s worthless."


    The crowd looked somewhat amused.


    Qian Jiuye sighed but didn''t think much of it. After all, there were still nine more Immortal Origin Stones to be opened.


    ncing at Fang Chen, Fang Yun thought, <i>Indeed, it was just good luck.</i>


    Just as Fang Chen was about to try stimting the branch with his divine soul to see if there would be any reaction, an old, hoarseugh was suddenly heard.


    "Amon withered branch? It seems like our friend over here knows little about spiritual trees. This branch is clearly the root of a spiritual tree."


    Fang Chen''s gaze shifted, and he turned to look outside the pavilion.


    At the entrance stood an elder and a little girl.


    The girl appeared to be around seven or eight years old. She had a lively gaze and showed no aura of cultivation.


    As for the elder, he looked even more ordinary. At least in the eyes of everyone here, he was just amon, mundane old man.


    But no one was foolish enough to truly consider the elder as an ordinary person. The cultivators present all showed a look of wariness and respect.


    Tong Hu looked toward the elder, and seeing that he couldn''t see through the other''s cultivation level, his expression became a bit more solemn. He cupped his fists and said, "Fellow cultivator, what do you mean by the root of a spiritual tree?"


    Bringing the little girl with him, the elder walked into the Jade River Pavilion and arrived before Fang Chen. As he examined the withered branch in Fang Chen''s hand, he smiled at Tong Hu. "Spiritual fruits don''t just fall from the sky, do they? They grow on spiritual trees. This withered branch is the root of a spiritual tree, and it''s capable of growing into one. Its value cannot be underestimated.¡±


    Everyone was shocked by the revtion.


    They knew about spiritual springs and spiritual fields, but they knew very little about spiritual trees. At least within the Great Qian Empire, it seemed there was no such thing.


    Master Wu felt a surge of dissatisfaction well up inside him after seeing that the withered branch Tong Hu dismissed as ordinary and worthless was now being made out to be something of high value by this elder. He growled in a deep voice, "Elder, this branch shows no sign of spiritual energy fluctuations, how could it be the rumored root of a spiritual tree?"


    The elder looked at Master Wu with a little surprise. "Oh? You know about spiritual trees?"


    Master Wu smiled. "I have followed an old predecessor for many decades and have seen quite a lot."


    "Spiritual trees are rare existences in our world. They have an almost infinite lifespan. Some top-tier families possess such trees, which serve as the foundation of their power. Every few years, they can continuously harvest the spiritual fruits from these trees." The elder chuckled and continued, "So... Why are spiritual trees so rare in our world?¡±


    Master Wu lightly smiled and replied, "It''s because young spiritual trees are indistinguishable from ordinary trees, showing no signs of their true nature. They can die from strong winds, lightning strikes, or even be cut down by ordinary people. Only mature spiritual trees will show special signs and be protected by cultivators."


    Suddenly, Master Wu¡¯s face began to fall. He seemed to have made the corrtion.


    The others also began to realize the implications of his words.


    Could the withered branch really be the root of a spiritual tree?


    Could they not sense it only because it hadn''t yet matured?


    "Fellow cultivator, ording to what you''ve said, there''s no way for us to authenticate that this is the root of a spiritual tree?" asked Tong Hu in a deep voice.


    "That¡¯s right!" Master Wu nodded in agreement. "There''s no way to verify right now whether this withered branch is the root of a spiritual tree or not. So, ording to the rules we have set, it can only be considered as something of no value."


    "I happen to have nted a few spiritual trees and have some experience in this field. There¡¯s a method that will allow us to see if this is the root of a spiritual tree.¡± The elder chuckled lightly, taking out a porcin bottle. "There are a few drops of an Immortal Spring in here. Just a single drop will be able to nurture the tree and allow it to bear fruits. With that, we will be able to determine if it¡¯s a spiritual tree.


    ¡°However, the water of an Immortal Spring is rare, and if you wish for me to use it, you must sell it to me once we verify what fruits it can bear.¡±


    <i>Immortal Spring?</i>


    Tong Hu looked deeply at the elder. Thetter''s background might be extraordinary, but he had never heard of an Immortal Spring before.


    Whatever it was, anyone capable of nting spiritual trees can''t be weak. At the very least, they had to havee from a profound background.


    The elderly man smiled gently as he looked at Fang Chen. "Young friend, would you consider selling this root to me? If you agree, I will help you prove its value."


    Fang Chen suddenly felt a chill run down his spine.


    The elder was not looking at his physical body but at the location of his soul....


    Although the two were only a foot or two apart and others might not notice the subtlety, Fang Chen could perceive it clearly.


    The next moment, Fang Chen''s soul returned to his body, and he forced himself to calm down.


    "If you can prove the value of this withered branch, senior, I will give it to you."


    "How can I simply take something from a junior without offering anything in return? Before using the water from the Immortal Spring, I can¡¯t determine its value either," said the elder, taking out three thousand low-grade spirit stones. "Let''s settle it at the lowest price for now."


    Everyone was stunned by the amount.


    "Three thousand low-grade spirit stones?!"


    They never imagined that a withered branch like this could be so valuable.


    Qian Feng''s eyes showed a hint of panic.


    Master Wu clenched his teeth and immediately turned to Tong Hu. "Senior Tong, this doesn''tply with the rules of our bet. We must prove the item''s value before making an offer. Otherwise, anyone can manipte the oue of the gamble...."


    Tong Hu nodded slightly and looked at the elder. "Fellow Daoist, please authenticate the value of this item."


    "Naturally... It''s easy, watch." The elderughed heartily, took the withered branch, and opened the porcin bottle to drip a drop of Immortal Spring water onto it.


    The drops didn''t seem to contain any spiritual energy, and it appeared to be only a drop of ordinary water, causing everyone in the Jade River Pavilion to be somewhat skeptical at this sight.


    Was the old man a spy nted by Fang Chen? They couldn¡¯t say for certain that something like that hadn¡¯t happened before.


    Just as the crowd began to doubt the elder''s origins, the drop from the Immortal Spring had already seeped into the withered branch. Following that, a vast and profound force of wood elemental energy surged forth.


    Suddenly, new branches began to grow at a speed visible to the naked eye until it fruited a peach.


    "A Lifespan Peach?" uttered the elder in surprise. He then looked at Fang Chen andughed. "Kid, you''re quite lucky. This spiritual tree is pretty rare and valuable. However, I won¡¯t give you any more spirit stones as the drop of Immortal Spring Water was mine.¡±


    The peach exuded rich spiritual energy, and anyone who wasn''t blind would sense that it was valuable. And the fact that spiritual trees were almost immortal once nted and would bear fruit endlessly was another point altogether.


    There was no way it could be worthless!


    Master Wu''s face had turned ashen.

 Chapter 352: High-Value Acquisition

    <h4>Chapter 352: High-Value Acquisition</h4>


    "It seems that this withered branch is truly a highly valuable item. With three thousand low-grade spirit stones, plus the previous ten thousand low-grade spirit stones from the sale of his mid-grade spirit stone, Fang Chen''s performance is indeed terrifying."


    "The Immortal Origin District has been around for many years, and only a few people can consistently increase their wealth like this. Is he really just lucky? Or is he an Immortal Origin Master?"


    The crowd whispered among themselves.


    Qian Jiuye''s expression was full of excitement.


    Fang Jue looked at Fang Chen with a thoughtful gaze, curiosity flickering in his eyes.


    Could they have all been mistaken? They had all thought that Fang Chen had been merely lucky. But what if this hadn''t been Fang Chen''s first time dealing with Immortal Origin Stones and he had in fact been exposed to them a long time ago?


    Was Fang Chen pretending to be the pig to eat the tiger?


    Fang Jue wasn''t the only one with this thought.


    Qian Feng''s face turned green as if he had tasted something unpleasant. He nced slowly at Master Wu and noticed that thetter''s expression wasn''t any better either, which eased his feelings.


    Fang Lingxing stared unblinkingly at Fang Chen. <i>Is this guy really just relying on luck?</i>


    Beside her, Jue Wudi appeared calm on the surface, but his gaze kept shifting between the withered branch, Fang Chen, and the elder as if he were evaluating something.


    "Lifespan Peach?" Tong Hu murmured to himself, then bowed respectfully. "Fellow cultivator, may I ask what a Lifespan Peach is? Why have I never heard of it before? Is it really worth three thousand low-grade spirit stones?"


    The elder chuckled lightly, plucked a peach, and threw it to the girl beside him. The girl caught it swiftly and ate it in a few bites.


    The elder smiled and exined, "The so-called Lifespan Peach grants ten additional years of lifespan after it is eaten. It¡¯s not strange that you have not seen this treasure before, as not everyone has had the chance to encounter it in their lives."


    Sharp breaths were drawn as everyone exchanged looks filled with shock and disbelief.


    Were their ears ying tricks on them?!


    Was there a peach that could actually increase one¡¯s lifespan by ten years?


    One had to know that any treasure that could lengthen one¡¯s lifespan was priced exorbitantly and extremely hard toe by. Even Golden Core Realm experts might not be able to get their hands on one!


    In the hands of those who really need it, a peach that can add ten years to one¡¯s life could be worth ten thousand low-grade spirit stones!


    Even if one wasn¡¯t worried about their lifespan at the moment, they could purchase the treasure and keep it for future use. Three thousand low-grade spirit stones really did seem like a small price to pay.


    However... the most important point here was that a precious treasure like that was actually given to a young girl who ate it before anyone had a chance to react!


    Qian Feng''s expression shifted erratically.


    Qian Jiuye also instinctively looked at the withered branch in the elder''s hand.


    Tong Hu''s gaze flickered as thoughts swam through his mind.


    The surrounding cultivators started to breathe more audibly.


    Everyone here harbored the same thought, and that was to get their hands on the spiritual tree root in the elder¡¯s hand. As long as they could obtain this treasure, they would be able to obtain unimaginable benefits for their future!


    The elder smiled further and continued to exin, "By the way, as long as the spiritual tree is nted properly and asionally watered with Immortal Spring Water, it will bear fruit approximately every thirty years. Each time, five to seven Lifespan Peaches can be harvested. One Lifespan Peach can fetch up to five thousand low-grade spirit stones on the market, and there are always people fighting over it," the elder exined with another smile.


    His words further ignited the fire in everyone''s hearts, causing their breaths to be heavy, and some even started to exhale white vapor.


    They really wanted this treasure!


    However, they didn''t act impulsively. The elder in front of them had Immortal Spring Water, which they hadn''t heard about until now, and he knew about Lifespan Peaches. Obviously, that old man was no ordinary mortal!


    Tong Baizhou''s breathing became heavier, his gaze locked onto the treasure. It was such a pity. If he had been the one to discover the treasure, he wouldn''t let others take advantage of the opportunity.


    "Young friend, after hearing what I said, don¡¯t you feel a sense of loss? Don¡¯t you think you¡¯ve sold it for too cheap? If you regret your decision earlier, feel free to add a bit more to the price. I will be sure to ept any reasonable offer," the elder said to Fang Chen with a smile that didn''t quite reach his eyes.


    Fang Chen had been listening to the elder''s exnation of the Lifespan Peach when the elder asked him if he regretted it, causing Fang Chen to smile and say, "If it weren''t for you, elder, this withered branch would have been considered to be trash and thrown on the street. Someone might have even picked it up and burned it like firewood. I¡¯m satisfied to be able to sell it for three thousand low-grade spirit stones and I dare not ask for more.¡±


    The elder nodded with a smile. "Sensible, very sensible,"


    Suddenly, Tong Hu sped his hands with a smile and said, "Friend, I have an earnest request. Could you sell this item to me? I''m willing to pay a hefty sum. I will buy it for twenty thousand low-grade spirit stones."


    Everyone sucked in a cold breath.


    Twenty thousand?!


    Some began to imagine their life if they had twenty thousand spirit stones. After all, even top-grade, yellow-rank artifacts would be priced around eight to nine thousand spirit stones.


    "Fang Chen is really impressive. He recently opened a mid-grade spirit stone with ten thousand, and now, he obtained the root of a spiritual tree worth twenty thousand...¡± muttered Fang Hao.


    The members of the Fang Family nodded like chickens pecking at rice as they stared at Fang Chen with admiration in their eyes.


    It was truly legendary.


    They would have never imagined that something so valuable could be cut open from an Immortal Origin Stone before Fang Chen appeared.


    Since this price was set by Tong Hu, no one doubted his assessment of the item''s value.


    Qian Feng''s face turned from green to blue. But fortunately for him, they had already sold the treasure for three thousand spirit stones. They could only record the initial price it was sold at, not the subsequent price.


    "Fellow cultivator, I''m nning on nting this spiritual tree myself, so I won''t be selling it," said the elder with a smile.


    It was at this moment that a woman suddenly walked in from outside. "Fellow cultivator, since this treasure appeared in my Grand Qian Empire, it should have a connection with us. Can you do me a favor and leave it here?"


    Qian Feng and Qian Jiuye hurriedly got up and saluted, "Qian Feng (Qian Jiuye) pays respects to the ancestor."


    "That''s the Golden Core Realm Ancestor of the Royal Family!¡±


    "That¡¯s Princess Shenlong. I heard she is the emperor''s aunt and has lived for more than four hundred years..."


    The surrounding cultivators were full of doubts and surprise.


    <i>A Golden Core Realm Ancestor from the Royal Family actually came!</i>


    The elder shook his head with a smile that wasn''t quite a smile. "I''ve already said that I''m not nning to sell this spiritual tree. For a mere twenty thousand low-grade spirit stones, you want to buy this tree of endless prospects?"


    Just as he finished speaking, several auras appeared at the entrance.


    First, a strong scent of alcohol filled the air, and then everyone saw an old man carrying a gourd sauntering in.


    Next came a middle-aged man in loose robes, with a naturally gloomy expression.


    The members of the Fang Family and the Jue Family present quickly saluted upon seeing them. One of them was a Golden Core Realm Ancestor from the Fang Family and the other was from the Jue Family.


    If they included Princess Shenlong and Tong Hu, there were already four Golden Core Realm cultivators present, not to mention the old man whose cultivation level was unknown.


    The crowd''s expression turned odd, but they couldn''t help but start feeling excited.


    They were here to watch the exciting bet between two members of the royal family. Who would''ve thought that the situation would turn out in this way?


    Normally, they wouldn''t have the opportunity to admire those Golden Core Realm ancestors who were legendary figures in the Imperial Capital from this up close.


    The Golden Core Realm ancestor from the Fang Family stared at Fang Chen with a strange expression. "Young man, I heard you found something good again. Looks like you actually obtained the root of a spiritual tree?!"

 Chapter 353 Punishment

    <h4>Chapter 353 Punishment</h4>


    Before Fang Chen could speak, two figures hurried over.


    As it turned out, they were Fang Ao and his wife.


    Fang Jue was slightly surprised. "Why is Master here?¡±


    "<i>Senior Brother, I had a feeling Father should know what was happening here and I sent him a secret transmission.</i>¡± Fang Yun¡¯s voice rang in Fang Jue¡¯s ears.


    Only when Fang Yun said this did Fang Jue understand.


    When Fang Ao saw the scene in front of him, he was shocked. He quickly bowed to the Golden Core Realm cultivators present before looking at the Fang Family ancestor with a worried expression.


    "Elder, did Fang Chen cause trouble here? Please, don''t be angry. Fang Chen has just arrived in Grand Qian and doesn''t quite understand the rules yet...."


    Everyone around revealed strange expressions.


    Seeing how the Fang Family ancestor remained silent and how everyone else wasn¡¯t saying anything, Fang Ao''s expression kept changing.


    What kind of trouble did Fang Chen cause to gather so many Golden Core Realm cultivators?


    Was the matter rted to Qian Feng and Qian Jiuye?


    Thinking of this, Fang Ao¡¯s heart sank further. They were juniors of the royal family! If the royal family was dragged into the mess, things would get infinitely more troublesome for him.


    "Junior Sister, what did you tell your father?¡± asked Fang Jue with a look of confusion.


    "I... I just said that Fang Chen caused a huge problem in the Jade River Pavilion...¡± said Fang Yun, shocked. She then hurriedly transmitted another voice transmission to Fang Ao and Jing Jing.


    ¡°<i>Father, actually....</i>¡±


    Fang Yun tried to channel all the speaking mastery she had gained over the years to quickly exin the situation to her father again.


    The Golden Core Realm Ancestor of the Fang Family frowned slightly. "Fang Ao, what are you so anxious about? You haven''t figured out the situation yet, and yet you''re causing a scene! How are you supposed to take care of your third branch if you keep acting like this? I¡¯m getting worried for you!¡±


    Question marks filled Fang Ao¡¯s mind as a look of confusion appeared on his face.


    Fortunately, his wife finally had an idea of what was happening from Fang Yun''s exnation. She reined in her shock before exining everything to Fang Ao.


    The Golden Core Realm Ancestor of the Fang family couldn''t be bothered with them. He turned his attention back to Fang Chen and asked, "Young man, did you obtain the root of a spiritual tree?"


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "That''s correct."


    "Why didn''t you sell it to members of your own family? Are you afraid that the Fang Family can''t bring out enough low-grade spirit stones?" asked the Fang Family ancestor before snorting coldly as he threw Fang Chen a storage ring. "This is the money I owe you for the mid-grade spirit stones I took from you a few days ago. Keep it, there''s nothing wrong with that."


    When Fang Lingxing saw that, her expression shifted immediately.


    She would''ve never expected that their family ancestor would give Fang Chen the spirit stones directly because of today''s bet.


    Her father, Fang Mosheng, had been discussing with the family head about how they would use an excuse to temporarily withhold the spirt stones from reaching Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen looked through the storage ring before putting it away, a respectful smile on his face. "There are ten thousand low-grade spirit stones here. Thank you, Ancestor."


    He had just spent 4200 spirit stones just a few moments ago. And now that the family ancestor had given him ten thousand spirit stones. He had sixteen thousand low-grade spirit stones on him right now, and that was no small amount at all.


    And by the time the bet ended, he would have even more spirit stones!


    The three thousand from earlier hadn''t been ounted for, and the Immortal Origin Stone worth four thousand low-grade spirit stones hadn''t been opened yet.


    Fang Chen was bing more and more confident about promoting Little Sword to the next level and obtaining a rank three sword body.


    The Fang Family ancestor turned to the elder and smiled. "Fellow cultivator, as you can see, a junior of my family was the one who obtained the treasure. Logically speaking, it should be up to our Fang family to decide whether to sell it or not."


    The Jue Family ancestor and Princess Shenlong both frowned slightly.


    When Tong Hu saw the frowns on their faces, he knew that the spiritual tree was out of his reach.


    ncing at the Fang Family ancestor, the old man chuckled lightly. "Interesting."


    ¡°When the junior of your family cut open the treasure, you weren¡¯t here. Why don¡¯t you ask all of those here how this spiritual tree reappeared in this mortal world?¡±


    Tong Hu spoke slowly. "Fellow cultivator Fang, our fellow expert here was the one who used a drop of Immortal Spring Water to revitalize the spiritual tree. Even I failed to notice this treasure before he did that. All I had been able to see was a withered tree."


    "I don''t care about that," the Fang Family ancestor''s eyes flickered as he looked at the old man. "I heard you bought this spiritual tree for three thousand low-grade spirit stones, right? In that case, I''ll buy it back for 25000 low-grade spirit stones. That should work, right?"


    "How about we do this..." the old man smiled, "If you really want this spiritual tree, I can sell it to all of you, but you will have to pay for the drop of Immortal Spring Water I used."


    "Immortal Spring Water?"


    Everyone looked at one another. None of them knew how precious this drop of Immortal Spring Water was.


    "How much is Immortal Spring Water valued at?" asked the Fang Family ancestor.


    "Not much at all," said the old man, chuckling lightly. "You can give me ten thousand mid-grade spirit stones for it."


    "Ten thousand spirit stones? That was a bit pricey" was the first thought that crossed everyone''s mind initially.


    The Fang Family ancestor frowned. He was about to speak when he heard Princess Shenlong growl in a deep voice, "Mid-grade spirit stones?"


    Mid-grade spirit stones?!


    Everyone was stunned, and they stared at the old man in shock.


    This old man clearly didn''t want to sell the spiritual tree at all! He had to be merely saying this as an excuse so the Golden Core Realm cultivators would back down!


    "Fellow cultivator, you''re asking for too much. Do you know that you are still within the borders of Grand Qian?" The Fang Family ancestor''s frown deepened. "If you''re willing to be friends with us today, leave this spiritual tree behind. If not, it will remain here either way. There is no room for negotiation.¡±


    Princess Shenlong nodded lightly, and the Golden Core Realm Ancestor of the Jue family looked at the old man, his eyes flickering with inscrutable intentions. The spiritual tree doesn''t need to be bought by any particr family. As long as it stayed in Grand Qian, they, including their disciples and descendants, could all benefit from it!


    "No room for negotiation?" repeated the old man. He nced at the little girl beside him and smiled indulgently. "Littless, looks like we''ve walked into a bandit camp."


    "Grandpa, why don¡¯t we just kill them all?¡± said the little girl.


    The old man rubbed the girl''s head dotingly. "No, no, we can''t do that. They''re just talking nonsense. How can I kill them over mere words? Youngss, you need to remember this, there are karmic consequences in this world that we shouldn''t get involved in. The Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions can be terrifying."


    The crowd was shocked when they saw the two chatting away as if nothing else mattered,pletely disregarding the Golden Core Realm cultivators present.


    "But a little punishment is still necessary," said the old man with a chuckle, sweeping his gaze over the Golden Core Realm cultivators present, except for Tong Hu.


    Princess Shenlong.


    The Fang Family ancestor.


    The Jue Family ancestor.


    Suddenly, the three felt like a terrifying force had shackled them, and their eyes quickly filled with horror as they tried to break free; however, no matter how much they circted their spiritual energy, it couldn''t pose any resistance.


    The Fang Family ancestor''s scalp went numb as he cast the old man a pleading look. "Nascent Soul Realm cultivator? It¡¯s over...!"


    Princess Shenlong and the Golden Core Realm Ancestor of the Jue Family weren''t doing that well themselves either. They had alsoe to their own conclusions regarding the old man''s cultivation.


    Nascent Soul Realm! Only a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator could easily restrain them!


    "They..."


    Tong Hu was a Golden Core Realm cultivator too, and he naturally sensed what was happening to them. An expression of shock appeared on his face as he stared at the old man in fright.


    The old man smiled lightly at the three. He pulled two chairs, one for him and one for the little girl, before sitting down.


    "Alright, go get the members of your family toe pick you up.¡±

 Chapter 354: Greenwood Token

    <h4>Chapter 354: Greenwood Token</h4>


    The Jade River Pavilion had be incredibly quiet. Even the slowest cultivators present had realized that the old man far surpassed those Golden Core Realm cultivators.


    Those Golden Core Realm cultivators were like gods in their eyes, yet they had been punished and forced to a standstill, like little children.


    Fang Ao and Jing Jing exchanged nces before looking at the motionless Golden Core Realm Ancestors.


    As they nced at the old man, they suddenly grew fearful.


    What kind of powerful expert could effortlessly restrain Golden Core Realm cultivators?!


    <i>Could this senior be a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator?</i>


    This thought arose in their minds, making them both horrified and apprehensive.


    Fang Ao''s wife looked at Fang Yun with me in her eyes. They wouldn''t have been ced in this situation if it weren''t for their daughter!


    "What do you mean, senior?" asked Tong Hu cautiously.


    "Isn''t it clear enough?" The old man smiled lightly. "Let their family memberse pick them up. When a junior makes a mistake, the seniors should show up, right? It''smon courtesy."


    Tong Hu took a deep breath, then swiftly said, "I understand, senior. Please wait a moment."


    With that, he hurriedly left the Jade River Pavilion.


    Everyone began to specte as they exchanged looks. However, they all refrained frommunicating via transmission.


    There were three Golden Core cultivators in the Grand Qian Empire whose cultivation level overshadowed everyone else. In front of those three, all other Golden Core Realm cultivators were considered ordinary, and they had to call themselves juniors in front of them.


    And it was precisely because of the presence of those three Golden Core Realm cultivators that the Grand Qian Empire stood out among the fifth-tier empires and made the Azure Cloud Empire set the trade conference to be in the Grand Qian Empire.


    It seemed as though they would be able to see those three powerful Golden Core Realm experts today.


    Suddenly, the crowd noticed that the old man was speaking with Fang Chen; however, try as they might, they couldn''t hear their conversation at all. It was as if there was an invisible barrier that blocked the sound from traveling to them. They couldn''t even see their lips clearly.


    Tong Baizhou''s eyes turned serious. "This senior seems to have an unusual attitude toward that Fang Family disciple!"


    Jue Wudi furrowed his brow slightly, trying to discern the content of their conversation by focusing his gaze on their mouths. Unfortunately, no matter how hard he tried, he couldn''t see clearly.


    The three imprisoned Golden Core Realm cultivators were also confused about what they were seeing.


    Everyone was very curious about what the two were talking about.


    The old man chuckled lightly and said, "Junior, I see that you have an extraordinary talent in soul cultivation. Your divine soul can already leave your body even when you¡¯re at the Qi Refining Realm. Your immortal veins are also extremely solid. Is your teacher from a first-tier empire?¡±


    Fang Chen respectfully replied, "My teacher indeedes from a first-tier empire.¡±


    "It seems that someone else got to you first. It''s a pity. If not, I would have liked to take you as my disciple." The old man sighed. Pausing for a moment, he continued, "Why didn''t you follow your teacher to the first-tier empire to cultivate? Why did you choose to remain in this fifth-tier empire instead? The spiritual energy here is sparse, and the resources for cultivation are scarce, which is detrimental to your cultivation."


    "Senior, I still have some worldly affairs to attend to," said Fang Chen. "I promised my teacher that I would look for him after entering the Foundation Building Realm."


    "I see." The old man nodded gently. He handed a token to Fang Chen. "Keep this Greenwood Token well. If you are destined, you can use this token to visit the Greenwood Sect and find me in the future. My Greenwood Sect has a good rtionship with sword cultivators like yourself. Injured sword cultivators would often look for me to heal them, or even ask me for some medicine.¡±


    Fang Chen was initially puzzled as to why the old man would give him such a token. After all, there was a significant gap in their cultivation and there was no need for the old man to be particrly friendly with him. However, as he listened to the old man''s exnation, Fang Chen finally realized the reason behind the cordiality and his expression became slightly strange.


    <i>Sword cultivators... Do these two words hold such weight even in the eyes of powerful individuals in first-tier empires? Does he really believe that Ie from a powerful sect of sword cultivators there?</i>


    "Also, the journey from here to the first-tier empire is long and arduous. While this token is not a spiritual treasure, it may help you resolve some troubles along the way. You could also I am repaying you for selling me this spiritual tree. After all... Its true value far exceeds the three thousand low-grade spirit stones I have given you.¡± The old man stroked his beard and smiled. His tone was humble, but it couldn''t hide the pride within it. It was evident that the token was worth much more than he made it out to be.


    The crowd had seen the old man hand Fang Chen something, but they weren''t able to see what it was clearly. They couldn''t help but grow both envious and curious.


    At that moment, Tong Hu returned to the Jade River Pavilion. A figure followed closely behind him, and upon entering, his gaze immediately fell on the old man.


    The expressions of those in the surroundings changed slightly.


    The old man spoke lightly. "Which one of them are you here to pick up?"


    The neer pointed to the middle-aged man from the Jue Family. "This is my ipetent nephew who offended you, senior. I ask for your forgiveness."


    The crowd''s expressions perked up as they realized that this seemingly ordinary middle-aged man was actually ate-stage Golden Core Realm cultivator from the Jue Family, the one with the longest life and deepest cultivation among them.


    The old man nodded, and the restraining force on the Jue Family''s Golden Core Realm immediately dissipated. He quickly walked over to his uncle and bowed deeply to the old man. "I''ve offended you earlier. Please forgive me, senior."


    The old man remained silent.


    "Jue Feian, kneel down and kowtow to the elder!"manded thete-stage Golden Core Realm elder of the Jue Family in a low voice.


    Without hesitation, Jue Feian knelt down and kowtowed to the old man in front of all the Qi Refining and Foundation Building Realm cultivators present.


    The onlookers were perplexed by this scene. Even the Jue Family, one of the three pirs of the Grand Qian Empire, had to disy such humility before a powerful figure.


    The old man waved his hand dismissively. "Take him away."


    Thete-stage Golden Core Realm elder of the Jue Family wanted to say a few more words but he saw that the old man was getting impatient. He nodded quickly and swiftly left with Jue Feian.


    A momentter, another figure walked in. The neer looked around twenty years old. He looked quite young, but hisplexion was somewhat pale. Strands of white hair were mixed in with his ck hair.


    Fang Ao and his wife fell to their knees.


    "I, Fang AO, from the third branch, pay respects to the Old Ancestor!"


    "Is he our Fang Family''ste-stage Golden Core Realm expert?"


    The expressions of Fang Jue and others were invigorated, and they too kneeled down to pay their respects. The Old Ancestor rarely left seclusion, so the younger generation had never seen him before. Today was the first time they saw his true appearance.


    "Please rise." The Golden Core Realm from the Fang Family lightly gestured, then walked up to the Elder and bowed respectfully. "I, Fang Tingjian, pay respects to the Elder."


    Fang Tingjian?


    Fang Chen was surprised. Was that the elder from the same lineage as his ancestor?


    "Who are you here for?" asked the old man softly.


    Fang Tingjian pointed at one of them. "That¡¯s Fang Wanli. He is my useless junior...¡±


    Nodding slightly, the old man released the restriction around Fang Wanli.


    The binding force on Fang Wanli immediately dissipated.


    With a somewhat embarrassed smile, Fang Wanli hurried over to Fang Tingjian and repeatedly bowed to the Elder:


    "I''ve offended you, senior. Please forgive me."


    The old man turned to Fang Chen and asked, ¡°Are these the elders of your family?¡±


    The crowd was slightly surprised. Why would he ask something like that?¡±

 Chapter 355: No Need to Kowtow, Just Leave

    <h4>Chapter 355: No Need to Kowtow, Just Leave</h4>


    Fang Chen paused for a moment before nodding gently. "Yes, they are my family elders."


    Hearing that, the old man waved his hand and said, "In that case, no need to kowtow. Just leave."


    Everyone gasped in disbelief. They looked at Fang Chen in astonishment. Why was that elder treating Fang Chen so favorably?


    Just moments ago, the Golden Core Realm expert from the Jue Family had kowtowed nine times!


    Fang Tingjian and Fang Wanli were also taken aback, and they instinctively looked at Fang Chen with admiration in their eyes.


    Fang Tingjian said, "Elder, we will take our leave."


    He quickly bowed and took Fang Wanli and left.


    But before Fang Tingjian had left, he looked at Fang Ao and said, "Fang Ao, when this is over, bring that disciple over to see me."


    Fang Ao suddenly looked invigorated, and he nced a few times at Fang Tingjian''s departing figure.


    A few momentster, an old man with white hair and a beard entered the Jade River Pavilion.


    The crowd''s spirits lifted.


    If their spections were correct, the person who just arrived should be the grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm expert from the Grand Qian Royal Family! He was widely recognized as the top expert in Grand Qian.


    Although the Grand Qian Royal Family, Fang Family, and Jue Family were considered the three pirs, the imperial throne was held by the royal family because its strength far surpassed the other two. That had held true in the past and remained to hold true in the current times.


    "Grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm?" The old man suddenly chuckled. "Hehe, didn''t survive the first cmity of the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions, eh?"


    The old man with white hair and beard betrayed a hint of mncholy. He bowed respectfully to the old man and said, "I am Qian Wuzhi, and I pay respects to you, Elder."


    The crowd was surprised.


    As it turned out, the first cmity of the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions would happen when someone stepped into the grandpletion stage of the Golden Core Realm!


    Most of the cultivators present were in the Qi Refining Realm, with only a few in the Foundation Building Realm, but even those in the Foundation Building Realm knew very little about the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions.


    Even if they had Golden Core Realm ancestors back in their families, those experts rarely talked about such matters with them.


    What most knew was that all cultivators had to experience the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions and that the more karma you umte, the more terrifying these Cmities and Tribtions be. These served as constraints, preventing cultivators from casually using their power to ughter wantonly!


    By now, the force restraining Princess Shenlong had also disappeared.


    She hurriedly stepped forward and bowed. "I know my mistake, Senior. Please forgive me."


    "Is that all?" said the old man faintly.


    Princess Shenlong was taken aback, but she then slowly kneeled down and kowtowed nine times.


    The old man waved his hand. "You may leave."


    Neither the royal family Golden Core Realm expert nor Princess Shenlong dared to say anything and they quickly turned to leave.


    Smiling, the old man took the little girl''s hand and said, "Let''s go, littless." The old


    The crowd saw them walk toward the door before suddenly disappearing in the blink of an eye. No one had seen how they left.


    The crowd looked at each other, feeling relieved.


    Their eyes asionally fell on Fang Chen, showing a hint of curiosity and wariness. However, no one dared to ask anything as they didn¡¯t wish to anger the powerful expert over something like that.


    Tong Baizhou looked at Tong Hu. "Father, what''s next?"


    Tong Hu took a deep breath and then slowly said, "The bet continues."


    He looked at Master Wu, indicating for him to open another Immortal Origin Stone.


    Master Wu''s lips moved, looking toward Qian Feng.


    "Keep going," whispered Qian Feng.


    Master Wu tried his best to calm his nerves, but everyone could clearly see his hand shaking as he opened the second Immortal Origin Ston.


    After the time it took to drink a cup of tea passed, Master Wu sessfully uncovered the second Immortal Origin Stone, only to find it empty inside.


    His wrist trembled even more at the discovery.


    "Master Fang, it''s your turn," Qian Jiuye encouraged Fang Chen immediately.


    Fang Chen took an Immortal Origin Stone and calmly began to open it.


    The Immortal Origin Stone was quickly cut open, also revealing nothing inside.


    Master Wu and Qian Feng felt a wave of relief washing over them.


    As long as the gap between the two sides didn''t widen again, they still had a chance to win. Especially since the other side bought an Immortal Origin Stone worth four thousand low-grade spirit stones. As long as they made a loss, the gap would immediately be narrowed.


    The gamble continued fervently, with both sides opening several Immortal Origin Stones. They gained and lost ordingly. People noticed that Master Wu was slowly closing the gap between himself and Fang Chen.


    The Immortal Origin Stones he uncovered in session were all profitable, significantly reducing the deficit.


    Master Wu''s trembling wrist finally became steady. He had clearly regained the confidence he had lost. Including the losses on Fang Chen''s side, the gap between the two sides had been narrowed to only one or two hundred low-grade spirit stones.


    Qian Jiuye''s breathing became slightly heavier.


    Qian Feng couldn''t help butugh. "Ninth Brother, are you afraid?"


    Qian Jiuye rolled his eyes. "Second Brother, I still have the advantage now. What''s there to be afraid of?"


    "Advantage?" repeated Qian Feng, ncing at the Immortal Origin Stone worth four thousand low-grade spirit stones. He shook his head with a light smile.<i> The advantage would be lost the moment you open that.</i>


    As long as one was familiar with Immortal Origin Stones, they would know that these bulky and expensive Immortal Origin Stones should not be touched lightly. The chances of making a profit from cutting them were even lower than that of the ordinary Immortal Origin Stones that sell for only a few dozen spirit stones. Otherwise, the Jade River Pavilion wouldn''t need to put them up for sale.


    By now, each side had opened their ninth Immortal Origin Stone. With this, Master Wupletely surpassed Fang Chen. The Immortal Origin Stones they had cut opented them a profit of four thousand spirit stones!


    At this point, Master Wu breathed a sigh of relief, looking at Fang Chen with a smile that was not quite a smile. "How about you open the tenth Immortal Origin Stone first?"


    The crowd was a bundle of nerves. As soon as the tenth Immortal Origin Stone was opened, the oue of their bet would be set in stone.


    In their view, Fang Chen''s chances of winning were already slim. This wasn''t a bet between Qian Jiuye and Qian Feng only anymore, but also a bet that involved ten thousand low-grade spirit stones between Fang Chen and Qian Feng. It could be said that a lot was at stake here, and victory or defeat would lead one side to leave in tears.


    "Master Fang, how about I open this one?" whispered Qian Jiuye.


    Fang Chen smiled lightly, shook his head gently, and then walked up to the massive Immortal Origin Stone.


    "<i>Father, Mother. Fang Chen and the second prince are staking ten thousand low-grade spirit stones over this,</i>" Fang Yun suddenly transmitted her voice.


    The two of them took in a sharp breath of air.


    "Ten thousand low-grade spirit stones?!"


    Fang Ao''s expression became extremely solemn. This was not an ordinary bet; even as a Foundation Building Realm cultivator, he had never engaged in such a high-stakes gamble before!


    "<i>Master Wu, what do you think his chances are for making a profit</i>?" Qian Feng suddenly transmitted his voice.


    ncing over, Master Wu showed a faint smile on his face. "Second Prince, rest assured. In all my years of dealing with Immortal Origin Stones, I have never heard of any Immortal Origin Stone worth thousands being able to yield a profit. Firstly, such massive Immortal Origin Stones are extremely rare, and secondly, bigger isn''t always better with Immortal Origin Stones. His chances of making a profit are almost zero."


    Qian Feng felt a lot more relieved when he heard that.


    "<i>Second Prince, just now that senior gave something to this kid. The treasure probably hides some kind of opportunity,</i>" Jue Wudi suddenly transmitted his voice over to Qian Feng.


    Qian Feng''s mind stirred, a trace of greed shing in his eyes. He didn''t really need Jue Wudi to remind him; he was already tempted. However... considering it was that elder who had given Fang Chen the item personally, he didn''t dare to snatch it.


    "<i>Perhaps we can propose a different kind of bet. We can borrow it for three months. I believe he will agree to it,</i>" Jue Wudi continued to transmit his voice.


    Qian Feng''s eyes lit up. <i>Yes, why didn''t I think of that?!</i>


    Seeing that Fang Chen was about to cut open the stone, he immediately said, "Master Fang, please wait a moment."

 Chapter 356: Changing the Wager?

    <h4>Chapter 356: Changing the Wager?</h4>


    The crowd was puzzled. Why did Qian Feng speak up just as Fang Chen was about to start unraveling the tenth Immortal Origin Stone?


    Even Master Wu was taken aback as he turned to stare at Qian Feng.


    "Your Highness, is there a problem?" asked Fang Chen casually.


    Qian Feng chuckled. "No problem at all. I just want to change the wager. Can I?"


    The crowd''s expressions turned strange.


    spoke with a hint of sarcasm. "Second Brother, the wager has already been set. Is there any reason to change it?"


    After speaking, Qian Jiuye looked at Master Tong Hu, "Senior Tong Hu, don''t you agree with this logic?"


    "The wager can be changed as long as both sides agree," said Tong Hu lightly.


    "You can rest assured, Brother Jiuye. This change will benefit both of us," said Qian Feng, chuckling lightly. "This stone gambling bet was originally apetition of honor between us brothers. Regardless of the oue, it will definitely affect the brotherly rtionship between you and I."


    "Second Brother, what do you want?" asked Qian Jiuye, looking puzzled. Why was Qian Feng suddenly talking about brotherly affection?


    There was none between them at all!


    Qian Feng smiled. "Didn''t Master Fang wager ten thousand low-grade spirit stones with me earlier? So, if you lose this time, Master Fang only needs to give me five thousand low-grade spirit stones. As for you, Brother Jiuye, there''s no need for you to pay up. How about it?"


    "Your Highness?" Master Wu was stunned.


    Just as he was about to speak, he noticed Qian Feng''s gaze, causing him to swallow back his words.


    "The second prince''s generosity is truly remarkable!"


    Discussions were abound in the Jade River Pavilion, and the gazes directed at the second prince carried a hint of respect. To easily give up five thousand low-grade spirit stones which already seemed to be within reach wasn¡¯t something they could do.


    It could be said that this sum of spirit stones was not a small amount for any cultivator present; it couldpletely buy their livelihoods and lives! It was a massive fortune!


    Qian Jiuye frowned. "What exactly are you nning, Second Brother?"


    He didn''t believe that his second brother was so kind-hearted.


    Qian Feng chuckled. "It''s nothing much. As long as Master Fang agrees, if he loses, he just needs to lend me the item left behind by that senior earlier for three months," he said. "Isn''t this fair?"


    Everyone suddenly understood.


    Master Wu finally understood why Qian Feng wanted to change the wager at such a critical moment.


    Qian Jiuye''s gaze flickered. "Hmm, this...."


    Master Tong Hu looked at Qian Feng, then at Fang Chen, seemingly lost in thought.


    Fang Chen smiled. "I think you''ve misunderstood something, Second Prince. The item the senior left me was just an ordinary token, not a treasure, and it doesn''t hold any inheritance."


    Fang Chen took out the Greenwood Token and calmly showed it to everyone. He knew that if this matter wasn''t rified, it would lead to many troublester. It was better to be clear and dispel everyone''s misconceptions.


    The crowd found it hard to believe.


    "An ordinary token?"


    Tong Hu suddenly asked, "Young Friend Fang, may I have a look at it?"


    "Young Friend Fang?!"


    When the crowd noticed how Tong Hu addressed Fang Chen, they couldn''t help but feel a bit envious. For Fang Chen to be treated this politely by a Golden Core Realm cultivator meant that he had already won regardless of the bet''s oue.


    However, naturally, everyone still knew that this was only because of the favor the mysterious old man had shown Fang Chen. This token, which he had given him, was a clear disy of his consideration.


    Fang Chen smiled and casually handed the token to Tong Hu.


    The doubts in everyone''s hearts gradually faded. Could it really be just an ordinary token?


    "Greenwood Sect? I''ve never heard of this sect before. It seems that where the seniores from is also a ce beyond our reach," Tong Hu muttered as he looked over the token repeatedly. He even infused it with spiritual power but couldn''t sense anything special about it. He was convinced that it was just an ordinary token. However, its underlying meaning was anything but ordinary.


    Tong Hu returned the Greenwood Token to Fang Chen and casually remarked, "Young Friend Fang, hold onto this token well. Since the senior gave you this token, it shows that he holds you in high regard. This is an opportunity that belongs solely to you. If others take this token, it might bring them trouble."


    Qian Feng was somewhat unwilling to believe it. He forced a smile and requested, "Could I also take a look?"


    Fang Chen tossed the Greenwood Token to Qian Feng.


    Qian Feng carefully examined it but ultimately had to admit that there was nothing extraordinary about it. However, the opportunity represented by the token...


    As this thought arose in his mind, Qian Feng remembered Tong Hu''s earlier words. He felt a slight chill in his heart and immediately returned the token to Fang Chen.


    Indeed, the token was personally bestowed by that senior, and if someone else were to take it, not only would they not gain the opportunities avable but they might also invite trouble and offend that powerful individual.


    It suddenly hit him that the reason Tong Hu said this was to enlighten everyone present.


    Qian Jiuye was curious as well and asked Fang Chen for a chance to look at it. Fang Jue and Fang Yun also came forward to take a look.


    Envy shed in Fang Yun''s eyes as she looked at the token. She could imagine how many opportunities the token could bring to Fang Chen. It could even elevate his status within the Fang Family.


    "<i>Brother Wudi, is there really nothing special about this token?</i>" Fang Lingxing asked via voice transmission.


    "<i>Indeed, there is nothing special about it, but it represents a kind of opportunity that is limited only to Fang Chen,</i>" replied Jue Wudi via a voice transmission. He had also observed the token carefully when the second prince inspected it but found no clues.


    Qian Jiuye returned the token to Fang Chen and suddenly smiled at Qian Feng. "Second Brother, are you going to keep your word from earlier?"


    Qian Feng''s expression turned slightly unpleasant. Being watched by so many people, if he didn''t fulfill what he said, it would bring shame to the royal family.


    It was then that Fang Chen suddenly said, "Prince Jiuye, since it''s a wager, let''s stick to what was agreed upon."


    Qian Jiuye was slightly surprised. After a moment, he showed a bitter smile.


    But Qian Feng burst intoughter at these words. "Master Fang''s words are very reasonable. I was indeed a little confused earlier!"


    Fang Chen smiled and began to crack open the Immortal Origin Stone in front of him as everyone watched attentively. Soon, the Immortal Origin Stone, which was originally about ten feet tall, was reduced to just a few feet in size.


    The surface residue of the Immortal Origin Stone piled up on the ground. Until this moment, there was no sign of the Immortal Origin Stone revealing anything valuable within.


    When Master Wu saw this, he immediately started chatting with Qian Feng, saying how he was nning to continue looking at the other Immortal Origin Stones down at Yuchuan Pavilionter. He wanted to try his luck again with the spirit stones he had earned from today.


    Fang Ao''s wife couldn''t help but transmit, "<i>Husband, Fang Chen is too impulsive. Losing ten thousand low-grade spirit stones like this... If those spirit stones were handed over to the third branch, they could''ve nurtured many cultivators.</i>"


    "<i>Mydy, these spirit stones belong to Fang Chen alone. How he handles them is none of our business,</i>" Fang Ao transmitted back. "<i>Senior Tingjian said that he wants to see Fang Chen after this is over. Treat him with some respect in the future.</i>"


    Fang Ao''s wife was slightly surprised, and her face turned serious.


    The next moment, Fang Chen''s movements suddenly elerated. The remaining surface of the Immortal Origin Stone was immediately peeled away and disintegrated, revealing a long sword emitting a radiant jade-white light in front of everyone.


    The moment it appeared, a vast and mighty sword intent swept in all directions.


    The crowd suddenly felt their skin prickle with pain.


    To their surprise, they found that they had all sustained a cut out of nowhere!

 Chapter 357 My Only Regret Is That He’s Not My Son

    <h4>Chapter 357 My Only Regret Is That He¡¯s Not My Son</h4>


    The crowd was dumbfounded.


    They all suddenly remembered what Tong Baizhou said about the origin of the Immortal Origin Stone.


    He said that it had been dug out from a certain sword cultivator''s tomb!


    Could it actually be true? How else could one exin the fact that a sword was hidden inside the Immortal Origin Stone?


    Judging from the dense sword intent emanating from it, the grade of this flying sword was definitely not low!


    The voice of Little Sword echoed in Fang Chen''s mind. "<i>Little Chen, this is a flying sword close to the peak of the yellow rank! If I consume it, I''ll be just steps away from advancing to the third stage!</i>"


    Close to the peak of the yellow rank! That would mean that the flying sword would possess at least seventy Soul Imprints!


    It could sell for at least five thousand spirit stones!


    Qian Feng''s face turned pale as he looked at Master Wu."Didn''t you say that the chances of its value increasing were slim !"


    Master Wu''s expression shifted erratically. He couldn''t believe that there was something valuable hidden inside the Immortal Origin Stone!


    "Do you think it¡¯s worth more than what he bought it for?" someone whispered.


    Qian Jiuye was excited, and he patted Fang Chen''s shoulder. "Master Fang, you truly amaze us!"


    If nothing unexpected happened, they would most likely win.


    Fang Ao was surprised. "He really cracked open something valuable! Do you think Fang Chen is actually experienced with Immortal Origin Stone?¡±


    If Fang Chen had seeded once or twice, it could be attributed to luck, but now that he had done it many times in a row... chalking it up to only luck would be too far-fetched.


    Tong Baizhou scrunched up his brow and whispered to his father, "Father, could this flying sword be a peak yellow-rank treasure?"


    Peak yellow rank!


    The crowd collectively gasped in shock.


    If this was really a peak yellow-rank treasure, its selling price would be at least eight thousand or more!


    First, he opened a mid-grade spirit stone. Next, he uncovered the root of a spiritual tree. Now, there was a suspected peak yellow rank sword sitting in front of him...


    The gazes of the cultivators present were filled with disbelief.


    Tong Hu remained rtively calm. After all, he was a Golden Core Realm cultivator and had seen the world.


    Tong Hu stepped forward and waved his hand, causing the overflowing sword intent to slowly dissipate.


    "Since this sword had been buried for many years, its sword intent had umted over the years." Tong Hu grasped the sword handle and inspected the sword before saying, "This sword is not a peak yellow rank treasure."


    "Not a peak yellow rank treasure?"


    Master Wu and Qian Feng immediately heaved sighs of relief; they still had a chance.


    After all, this Immortal Origin Stone was priced at four thousand. If it was just a yellow rank high-grade treasure, it might still be manageable!


    Tong Hu continued, "But it has seventy-two Soul Imprints, belonging to the top tier within yellow rank treasures. It has a selling price of around six thousand low-grade spirit stones."


    Qian Feng''s face turned green. "Oh no...."


    Master Wu''s face turned pale, and his hands began to tremble slightly. There was a hint of unwillingness that shed in his eyes.


    Tong Hu looked at Fang Chen and asked, "Young Friend Fang, can this sword be sold to me?"


    Fang Chen shook his head softly and politely refused, "I n to keep it for my own use."


    "Keep it for your own use?"


    "A Qi Refining Realm cultivator can''t activate a high-grade, yellow-rank flying sword...."


    "Don''t forget, he is a member of the Fang family, and they have a Golden Core Realm ancestor; they can make use of it."


    Tong Hu nodded and didn''t force the matter.


    ncing at everyone, Tong Hu casually said, "The oue of today''s bet has been decided."


    After speaking, he turned and left.


    Fang Chen put away the flying sword and returned to where he had been sitting.


    Qian Jiuye smiled at Qian Feng and said, "Brother, since the oue has been decided, what about the ten thousand low-grade spirit stones...?"


    "Don''t worry, when I, Qian Feng, make amitment, I mean it," said Qian Feng, sneering as he got up. "Master Wu, stay here for now. I''ll go to the pce to get the spirit stones."


    With that, he didn''t even look at Master Wu, bringing Jue Wudi and Fang Lingxing with him as he left.


    Knowing that Qian Feng was angry, Master Wu''s face turned pale.


    Tong Baizhou smiled and bowed to the crowd. "Everyone, today''s bet is over. The store is now open as per usual."


    As soon as the words left his lips, everyone present rushed up to look at the remaining Immortal Origin Stones. Now that they had watched the bet, their hands turned a little itchy.


    Even Fang Jue felt a bit tempted, but because Fang Ao and Jing Jing were here, he had no choice but to scratch the itch away in frustration.


    In the back hall of Jade River Pavilion, Tong Baizhou stood respectfully with his head lowered in front of Tong Hu.


    "This child, Fang Chen, should be a Master of Immortal Origin Stones, or at least, he has followed a real Master of Immortal Origin Stones. See if you can bring him to our side," said Tong Hu calmly.


    The "Master of Immortal Origin Stones" he referred to were those who were adept at Immortal Origin Stones and were recognized by the majority, which were very rare.


    Tong Baizhou nodded slightly. "Both of those Immortal Origin Stones were personally bought by Fang Chen, indicating his full confidence in them. This proves that his sess was not purely luck."


    At this point, Tong Baizhou furrowed his brows slightly and whispered, "Father, that mysterious expert gave him a token, and we don''t know much about Fang Chen''s background either. If we try to recruit him easily, will it expose us?"


    "Keep a few tricks up your sleeve. Our origins are not weaker than that mysterious expert''s," said Tong Hu with a cold smile. "In fact, perhaps if he knew of our true identities, he would''ve been the one wary, not us."


    Tong Baizhou smiled slightly and nodded.


    After their conversation, Tong Hu left with his hands sped behind his back, while Tong Baizhou continued to greet guests in the front hall.


    Fang Chen''s divine soul returned to his body.


    This trip had helped him confirm that both Tong Hu and his son, Tong Baizhou, from the Jade River Pavilion, were cultivators of the Spirit Blood Sect.


    What he needed to do next was to continue to investigate the Fang, Jue, and the royal families! There might just be pawns of the Spirit Blood Sect in these ces.


    As for him buying those two winning Immortal Origin Stones... He was deliberately showing his hand. He wanted to forge an identity that suggested he had some understanding of Immortal Origin Stones.


    With this identity, he could easily interact with some middle to high-level people in the Grand Qian Imperial Capital, making it easier to find pawns of the Spirit Blood Sect.


    Fang Chen smiled and thought,<i> An Immortal Origin Stone Master? This identity does make things easier.</i>


    About half an hour had passed since the bet had ended, and Master Wu was already feeling very ufortable staying here. He couldn''t help but slump his shoulders a little whenever someone looked at him.


    He truly embarrassed himself today....


    As thoughts were still swimming through his mind, Jue Wudi suddenly returned to Jade River Pavilion, approached Fang Chen, and took out ten thousand low-grade spirit stones.


    The dense spiritual energy intoxicated the cultivators present. Glints of envy and greed shed in everyone''s eyes.


    Master Wu''s expression brightened; he dreaded being held ountable by Qian Feng, so having Jue Wudi bring the spirit stones at least meant that he wouldn¡¯t be left behind again.


    "The second prince said that the bet has been settled with this, and he wishes to invite you to Spring Dawn Tower in ten days as a guest," said Jue Wudi with a faint smile, staring at Fang Chen. "All the geniuses from the various families in the capital will be there; it will be lively. What do you think?"


    Qian Jiuye was surprised.


    Fang Jue and Fang Yun both looked at Fang Chen together.


    It was clear Qian Feng wanted to recruit Fang Chen!


    After putting away the spirit stones and pondering for a few moments, Fang Chen nodded. "Please tell the second prince that I''ll be as scheduled."


    "Then we''ll await for your arrival with respect, Master Fang." Jue Wudi smiled faintly, then turned and left. Master Wu quickly followed suit, leaving Jade River Pavilion together.


    Fang Yun frowned slightly. "Why did he agree so easily...?"


    "Master Fang, thank you for your help restoring some of my reputation. We''ll meet again when there''s time," said Qian Jiuye with a smile, though his tonecked warmth. There was even a hint of coldness to his voice.


    After he left, Fang Yun couldn''t help but show a hint of ridicule as she looked at Fang Chen.


    "You''re already nning to get involved with the second prince? If it weren''t for the ninth prince inviting you here, you wouldn''t have gained so much today!"


    "You''re talking nonsense, Little Sister."


    Fang Jue quickly stopped Fang Yun from speaking further, then looked at Fang Chen and whispered, "The second prince... he.... Just be careful, I can''t say much..."


    Before Fang Jue could finish speaking, Fang Ao and Jing Jing approached.


    "Fang Chen, our ancestor wants to see you. Return with us to the family manor for now."


    Fang Chen appeared calm as he nodded lightly.


    Fang Ao couldn''t help feeling a bit emotional. <i>This child remainsposed in the face of favor or disgrace. His demeanor is outstanding. It''s just a pity he''s not my son.</i>


    After a brief reminder to Fang Jue and Fang Yun, the couple led Fang Chen out of the Jade River Pavilion.


    Watching the three of them leave, Fang Yun couldn''t help muttering, "Recruited by the second prince and summoned by the ancestor. Truly riding high on sess."


    "You need to change your attitude, Little Sister, or you''ll offend too many people in the future." Fang Jue couldn''t help but remind her. "Fang Chen is not a simple man. Stop getting on his bad side. epting the second prince''s invitation doesn''t mean he agreed to be recruited."


    "Have you forgotten? He knows Xia Ji. Perhaps he''s just using this opportunity to resolve that matter for Xia Ji?"

 Chapter 358 Fanatic Little Brother

    <h4>Chapter 358 Fanatic Little Brother</h4>


    In the Fang Family''s inner courtyard.


    The inner courtyard was a forbidden area for the family''s juniors, and even the Head couldn¡¯t easily step in without prior notice.


    Only Fang Wanli, the ancestor of the Fang Family, coulde and go freely. The inner courtyard was where Fang Tingjian, the old ancestor of the Fang Family, remained in seclusion.


    There were formations ced everywhere, and if an ordinary Foundation Building Realm cultivator identally triggered them, the consequence would be death or severe injuries.


    Fang Wanli had been waiting for a long time, so when he saw Fang Ao bringing Fang Chen over, he waved his hand to signal Fang Ao to step back.


    Fang Ao bowed, nced at Fang Chen, then turned and left.


    "I never expected this, Kid," said Fang Wanli a little curiously. "Are you an Immortal Origin Stone Master?"


    "I once obtained a manual that recorded some Immortal Origin Stone techniques, but the title of Immortal Origin Stone Master is probably far beyond my reach," replied Fang Chen.


    Fang Wanli nodded slightly. He suddenly became curious about which sect or school Fang Chen had practiced in beforeing to the Grand Qian Empire.


    "What do you want to see me for, ancestor? Is there anything you need to tell me?" asked Fang Chen.


    "It''s not me who wants to see you, it''s my uncle," said Fang Wanli with a faint smile. "Follow me. The juniors who get to meet my uncle are far and few between. Fang Lingxing is one, and you are the second."


    <i>Was Fang Tingjian the person who wanted to meet me?</i>


    Fang Chen was momentarily stunned, then calmly nodded and followed Fang Wanli toward the secluded courtyard.


    Fang Chen had a hunch why Fang Tingjian wanted to see him.


    But Fang Chen also wanted to see if he could learn about the secrets of the past from this old ancestor, so it worked out.


    Fang Tingjian was standing with his hands sped behind his back in front of a hall. When he saw Fang Chen, a faint smile appeared on his pale face.


    "You''re called Fang Chen, right?"


    Fang Chen bowed. "I am Fang Chen. I pay respects to you, Ancestor."


    "It''s been four hundred years. If my elder brother knew that another talent had emerged among the younger generation, he will probably be able to rest in peace," Fang Tingjian said softly.


    "Uncle, what are you talking about?" eximed Fang Wanli.


    "He''s Fang Tingyuan''s descendant," said Fang Tingjian.


    Fang Wanli gasped in shock. "What!? He''s Uncle Tingyuan''s descendant?"


    Fang Wanli looked at Fang Chen incredulously before bursting out swearing. "Those little bastards actually hid the news and didn''t even inform me, their ancestor, about this!"


    "Fang Kun''s the family head, and he takes the family''s interest into consideration at every turn. The fewer the people who know about this, the better. He informed me at the first opportunity," said Fang Tingjian calmly.


    "These brats clearly don''t care about me!" grumbled Fang Wanli. " Fang Chen is a descendant of Uncle Tingyuan. That''s such a big deal and yet he didn''t even tell me. It''s infuriating!"


    "It''s because you''re so fascinated by my elder brother, always talking about him whenever you have the chance. They''re afraid that if you knew about this, it would cause a stir and everyone would know," Fang Tingjian coldly chuckled. "Stop the nonsense and stand aside. If you have anything to say, say itter."


    Fang Chen seemed to understand something from that conversation.


    It seemed as though Fang Wanli admired his ancestor very much, mentioning him from time to time even after hundreds of years, which was why the Head did not inform him of Fang Chen''s origins.


    Fang Tingjian looked at Fang Chen and calmly asked, "How have your side of the family been doing over these hundreds of years?"


    Fang Chen''s mind stirred. The fact that Fang Tingjian didn''t ask about the Greenwood Token and the mysterious old man, but instead inquired about how their lineage had been doing, indicated that Fang Tingyuan held a certain weight in his heart.


    "Old Ancestor, our lineage has been rtively stable over these years. We were previously martial artists. It wasn''t until my generation that we had the opportunity to explore the path of immortality," replied Fang Chen.


    "That''s good to hear." Fang Tingjian nodded slightly. The emotions in his eyes were veryplex.


    Fang Wanli was anxious to say something, but he was afraid that Fang Tingjian will berate him for it.


    Fang Tingjian continued, "Someone must have told you that you shouldn''t publicize the fact that you''re Fang Tingyuan''s descendants and just consider yourself an ordinary member of the Fang Family, alright?"


    Fang Chen nodded lightly.


    "Don''t hold it against us. The matter concerning your ancestor is veryplicated. This is for your own good and for the good of our family as a whole," said Fang Tingjian.


    "What''s soplicated about it?" muttered Fang Wanli under his breath. "Isn''t it just that Uncle Tingyuan offended some petty people in the Central Continent? What did Uncle Tingyuan do wrong? The real wrongdoers are those so-called cultivators of a first-tier empire, who are petty and scheming. They tried to harm uncle! Even Grandpa had to pass away prematurely because of this!"


    ¡°Didn''t I tell you to shut up? Didn''t you hear me?¡± Fang Tingjian''s gaze suddenly became sharp. "I''ve said it before, don''t mention these things again. Don''t think that what you say here won''t be heard by others!"


    Fang Wanli, seeing that Fang Tingjian was truly angry, immediately zipped his mouth and looked elsewhere sheepishly, not daring to meet Fang Tingjian''s eyes.


    Fang Tingjian snorted coldly and changed the subject, "Fang Chen, have you ever met that senior in the past?"


    "I haven''t met him," replied Fang Chen.


    "I heard he gave you something?"


    Fang Chen directly took out the Greenwood Token and handed it to Fang Tingjian.


    "The Greenwood Token... it seems that the senior intends to form a bond with you. In the future, you can use this token to see if you can be his disciple," said Fang Tingjian thoughtfully while ying with the token.


    Afterward, he returned the Greenwood Token to Fang Chen and advised him to keep it safe. Then, after chatting a bit more, he waved his hand to dismiss Fang Chen and Fang Wanli.


    Fang Wanli quickly left the courtyard with Fang Chen. Shortly after, he whispered, "Fang Chen, did your ancestor leave behind any admonitions or sayings?"


    Fang Chen was momentarily stunned.


    <i>What sort of question is this?</i>


    Seeing that Fang Chen seemed a bit confused, Fang Wanli whispered, "Remember when I told you that a gentleman should not dy his revenge?"


    Fang Chen nodded. "I do."


    "That''s what Uncle Fang Tingyuan once told me," continued Fang Wanli. "I remember that year, I was only sixteen, and I was severely injured by Jue Feichen. I had to lie in bed for several months. When Uncle Fang Tingyuan came to visit me, he told me this. When my injuries recovered, I immediately spent money to hire several cultivators to ambush Jue Feichen and incapacitate him."


    Fang Wanli looked proud as he said this.


    "Since then, Jue Feichen has not dared to offend me easily." Pausing for a moment, Fang Wanli added, "If Uncle Fang Tingyuan left any useful words, you must tell me!"


    "Haha, you truly are a little admirer of our family''s ancestor." Fang Chen couldn''t help but sigh inwardly. After thinking for a moment, he shook his head and said, "My ancestor did not leave behind any wisdom."


    "I see..." Fang Wanli looked a bit disappointed.


    "Where was Uncle Fang Tingyuan buried? I want to burn incense for him."


    "To be honest, our lineage has a short lifespan due to being martial artists. By the time my generation came around, it had already been many generations since my ancestor. We have experienced migrations and crises in between. So, we don''t where the ancestor was buried," exined Fang Chen.


    Fang Wanli sighed, fell silent for a while, then nodded. "Alright, you can go back now."

 Chapter 359: Young One, How Dare You!

    Chapter 359: Young One, How Dare You!


    The first thing Fang Chen saw when he returned to the third branch was Li Cang''s reverent face.


    "Young Master, I heard that you disyed great power in the Immortal Origin District today. The news has spread all over the third branch. Even the young masters anddies of the first, second, and fourth branches are talking about this."


    "The news spread fast indeed." Fang Chen smiled and said, "I will be in seclusion for the next few days. If any guests visit, you know how to handle it."


    After a pause, he added, "If the guests from the Profound Void Templee, let them in."


    Li Cang''s expression became serious. He bowed and said, "I understand."


    ***


    Fang Chen returned to his quiet room.


    With a thought, Little Sword flew out from within him and circled around him excitedly.


    "Little Chen, is it time for dinner?"Fang Chen smiled and nodded. He then took out the high-grade, yellow-rank flying sword that he had just obtained.


    The sword was shimmering with a mysterious light, but as soon as Little Sword approached it, its brilliance waspletely suppressed, making it look nothing more than an ordinary sword.


    Unable to wait, Little Sword immediately started devouring it.


    As it ate, Fang Chen began to tidy up his storage ring.


    Nearly thirty thousand low-grade spirit stones were neatly arranged in front of him, and there were several jade slips.


    There was also Mirror of the Universe.


    There were talisman materials sprawled around as well as some spiritual medicines.


    This was all of Fang Chen''s wealth.


    If Lord Tiger could sell the inheritance for the Binding Talisman, his wealth would increase significantly.


    As the Mirror of the Universe seemed influenced by the abundant spiritual energy, it started to emit faint divine light.


    Suddenly, a very unfamiliar voice sounded in Fang Chen''s ear:


    "Brother, can you give me some low-grade spirit stones?"


    <em>Who?!</em>


    Fang Chen was surprised but didn''t panic. Had someone silently sneaked into the quiet room without him noticing? But that was almost impossible. Even if he hadn''t projected his divine soul out, it made him extremely sensitive to everything around him, even more so than his eyes.


    Fang Chen''s gaze suddenly fell on Mirror of the Universe.


    "Are you the one talking to me?" he whispered.


    Could it be like Little Sword? Has this Mirror of the Universe already developed a spirit?


    This wasn''tpletely out of the question, and the possibility that this was the case wasn''t low. This was something he had gotten from descendants of the Jiang Family, which was an ancient aristocratic family.


    The voice sounded again. "Yes, it''s me."


    Little Sword had already finished devouring the high-grade, yellow-rank flying sword by now. Its aura had strengthened slightly, and it grew to nearly two feet long. It was finally starting to look like a flying sword.


    Little Sword suddenly flew to the side of the Mirror of the Universe, looking extremely excited. It said, "Little Chen, let me devour it. This thing is good! If I eat it, I can immediately advance, and you¡¯ll be able to obtain a third-rank Sword Body!¡±


    The unfamiliar voice suddenly turned visibly angry, and it yelled, "Young one, how dare you!"


    Fang Chen''s brow scrunched up in wonder as he eyed the two treasures. "You two can hear each other?"


    "Brother, control your sword! If it dares to insult me again, I''ll make it regret being born!"


    "Little Chen, is this thing threatening me? A mere book dares to threaten me? Let me eat it!"


    "A mere book?! You''re speaking out of turn, young one! How utterly arrogant!"


    Seeing that the two started bickering, Fang Chen waved his hand helplessly.


    "Stop arguing, Little Sword. Be quiet for a moment. I have something to ask it."


    "Little Chen, you ask first, and I''ll eat itter," retorted Little Sword.


    Mirror of the Universe refused to back down.


    "Eat me? Aren''t you afraid of breaking your teeth?"


    Fang Chen focused his attention on Mirror of the Universe and said, "You should also quiet down a bit; I have something to ask you."


    "Brother, as long as you give me spirit stones, I''ll answer any question you have."


    "Let''s talk about the spirit stonester." Fang Chen smiled. "I want to ask you, have you always been able tomunicate with me? Why did you suddenly speak today?"


    The Mirror of the Universe remained silent for a moment. "I didn''t dare speak casually. I was afraid that the young one beside you wouldn''t understand the situation and damage my body."


    <em>So it was out of fear of Little Sword. </em>


    "Why did you suddenly speak today then?" asked Fang Chen, chuckling. "You could have pretended not to be here for as long as you wanted, and I wouldn''t have found out about you, and neither would Little Sword."


    "There are too many spirit stones, I just couldn''t help it, Brother," said Mirror of the Universe. "You don''t know, I haven''t absorbed spirit stones for many years. If this continues, I will soon fall into a deep sleep."


    "Does Jiang Zhong know that you can speak?" asked Fang Chen, pondering.


    "Would he have easily given me to you if he knew? Little do they know, I am the most precious thing that has been passed down in the Jiang Family since its decline! Not that alchemy heritage on the youngss, Jiang Tianai! Hmph, whatever! It''s better this way. I would''ve starved to death with them sooner orter," said Mirror of the Universe. "But you, Brother, are different. I''ve been watching you for a while and have found that you have a first-ss talent when ites to earning spirit stones! You can feed me!"


    "Tell me about your origins," said Fang Chen.


    He had tried to refine the mirror once but found that it wasn''t a spiritual weapon and couldn''t be refined. But if it wasn''t a spiritual weapon, how could it possess an artifact spirit?


    "After you''re done with the questions, can you give me some spirit stones? I''m too hungry, almost too hungry to speak¡­." said Mirror of the Universe.


    "How many spirit stones do you need?" asked Fang Chen with a smile.


    "How about twenty thousand low-grade spirit stones?" asked Mirror of the Universe tentatively.


    Fang Chen smiled and said, "You must be joking. I need those spirit stones to buy treasures for Little Sword."


    "What does this little one need to supplement his body for? Is he worthy? He''s just a sword embryo! Unlike me, a real immortal treasure from the Immortal Realm! I was born knowing everything. In the beginning, a cowherd boy picked me up and, with my help, founded the First Ancient Family, the Jiang Family!" Mirror of the Universe proudly stated.


    "Let me devour it!" yelled Little Sword suddenly.


    "I advise you to be humble, little one! A mere Sword Star Embryo, you can''t even chew on me!" retorted Mirror of the Universe aggressively.


    "I''ll eat you!"


    "Go eat shit!"


    ¡°...¡±


    Fang Chen stared at them in disbelief.


    "Stop bickering, let me sort this out," said Fang Chen, waving his hand. He looked at Mirror of the Universe and said,"You said¡­ that the Jiang Family became the first Ancient Family because of you?"


    "Of course! Without me, that cowherd boy would have remained a cowherd boy forever. Where would he have found the chance to encounter the immortal path?" said Mirror of the Universe.


    Fang Chen''s heart skipped a beat. If Mirror of the Universe wasn''t lying, then its role in the Jiang Family''s rise had to have been monumental.


    "You mentioned earlier that Little Sword is a Sword Star Embryo. What does that mean?"


    "In the countless stars that exist in the heavens, there will always be some special stars, and the Sword Star is one of them. A Sword Star that exists for a certain period of time will give birth to a Sword Embryo. If not disturbed, after a certain period of time, the Sword Embryo will ascend to immortality, transforming into a Sword Immortal," said Mirror of the Universe. It then added with a bit of disdain, "However, it will only be at the lowest level of the Sword Immortal. There¡¯s nothing special about him."


    Fang Chen pondered for a moment. He had indeed witnessed a scene where a big hand turned a star into a sword embryo, which was the origin of Little Sword. It confirmed what the Mirror of the Universe was saying.


    "So you''re saying that... if it weren''t for the intervention of the owner of that big hand, Little Sword might have already be a Sword Immortal by now¡­?" murmured Fang Chen.


    "Brother, can you give me some low-grade spirit stones already?" asked Mirror of the Universe, its tone urgent. "As long as you give me spirit stones, you can check any ranking list you want in the future! Even if you want to find spiritual materials or techniques, as long as you give me spirit stones, I''ll tell you everything!"

 Chapter 360: Mystical Abilities

    Chapter 360: Mystical Abilities


    "You said you are from the Immortal Realm. What is the Immortal Realm like? And what are immortals like?" Fang Chen suddenly asked.


    The Mirror of the Universe fell silent for a moment, then replied, "My current foundation is too weak; I cannot casually talk about the Immortal Realm, or else I might face heavenly punishment."


    "Will you be able to talk about it if I give you spirit stones?" asked Fang Chen.


    "I can''t talk about it even with spirit stones," said Mirror of the Universe firmly. "My life is more important."


    "In that case, I won''t ask about that. You mentioned that you can help me find techniques and materials," said Fang Chen. "Give me a cultivation technique now and I''ll believe you."


    "I cannot directly give you a technique. But I can give you the location where the technique is. You''ll have to get it yourself!"


    "You can provide the location but not the technique directly¡­.¡± Fang Chen nodded thoughtfully. He then continued, "There''s one contradiction. You said the founder of the first Ancient Family, the Jiang Family, was just a cowherd boy and that the Jiang Family came to be because of you. But why did the Jiang Family decline then? Doesn''t that contradict what you''re saying?"


    "Brother, I''m not almighty. Even with my help, one needs to be strong on their own!" exined Mirror of the Universe. "If there is no talent to begin with, no matter how much help I provide, it won''t be of much use. The decline of the Jiang Family was inevitable; I cannot change fate, lest I interfere with karma and act against the heavens."


    It might''ve seemed as though Fang Chen was casually asking these questions, but he was actually probing the extent of Mirror of the Universe''s abilities. Whether or not the Mirror actually originated from the Immortal Realm, however, he put that to the side temporarily.The abilities of the Mirror of the Universe were mysterious. It was as if it was omniscient. It seemed to have a clear understanding of all the intricacies of this world. However, it also had its limitations; for instance, it didn''t know about the details of certain legacies, but it knew where to find them. As for itsbat power, that was almost nonexistent; otherwise, it wouldn''t need to fear Little Sword so much.


    "Do you know who in the Grand Qian Empire possesses Blood Spirit Pills?" asked Fang Chen.


    "To answer such a question, I need spirit stones. Give me ten thousand low-grade spirit stones and I''ll tell you who has Blood Spirit Pills," said the Mirror of the Universe.


    Fang Chen''s eyes lit up. "Ten thousand low-grade spirit stones? Can you tell me the names of everyone in the capital who has Blood Spirit Pills?"


    He''d pay the ten thousand spirit stones if it came to it.


    "I can only tell you one," said Mirror of the Universe. "It''s not that I''m being greedy; I need spirit stones to use my abilities. If you want to know them all, it''ll probably cost you hundreds of thousands of low-grade spirit stones¡­."


    Fang Chen shook his head lightly. "If that''s the case, then you''re not of much use to me. Just asking about Blood Spirit Pills is already so expensive."


    The Mirror of the Universe quickly added, "Brother, you misunderstood. Blood Spirit Pills involve great karmic repercussions, which is why they''re so expensive. If you switch to another pill, the price won''t be as high!"


    <em>Is it because the Blood Spirit Sect has a powerful founder?</em> thought Fang Chen.


    Considering this, he asked again, "Who in the capital is a practitioner of the Spirit Blood Sect?"


    ¡°Brother, this question isn''t much different from the previous one. For ten thousand low-grade spirit stones, I can point out one person for you.¡±


    "Where can I find Foundation Building Pills?"


    "This is a good question; it only requires two thousand low-grade spirit stones!"


    <em>Foundation Building Pills are much more expensive than Blood Spirit Pills, yet they require fewer spirit stones¡­</em>


    Fang Chen pondered for a moment before asking, "Information regarding Blood Spirit Pills and Spirit Blood Sect disciples are so expensive. Is it because there is a powerful ancestor-level founder in the Blood Spirit Sect?"


    "It''s good that you know."


    Fang Chen sighed softly. Currently, it didn''t seem practical to use the Mirror of the Universe to find Blood Spirit Sect practitioners. He simply didn''t have that many spirit stones to spare.


    "Brother, you''ve asked so many questions, my mouth is dry. Can you give me some spirit stones first? If not twenty thousand, then two thousand will do! Even a thousand¡­."


    Mirror of the Universe''s tone was pleading.


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "How do I give them to you?"


    Mirror of the Universe''s spirits were lifted.


    "Just throw them on me!"


    With a wave of his hand, Fang Chen took out a thousand spirit stones from the nearly thirty thousand he had and threw them onto the Mirror of the Universe.


    The spirit stones turned into mist as they flew near Mirror of the Universe before being absorbed into it instantly!


    After a while, it let out a satisfied sigh. "Feels great, it''s been a long time since I''ve felt this way!"


    Fang Chen smiled. "Can you show me the names on the first few pages of the rankings?"


    Mirror of the Universe generously agreed. "Of course, now that I''ve consumed some spirit stones, I''ve regained a few of my abilities."


    It paused for a moment, then added, "However, with my current strength, I can only show you the Spiritual Treasure Ranking, Heavenly Spiritual Herb Ranking, and the like. As for the Emperor''s Rankings and the Founder''s Chronicles... it would require tens of thousands of low-grade spirit stones to unlock them. Brother, do you want to see them?"


    "These rankings... they shouldn''t be secrets in the Central Continent. Why would they require tens of thousands of low-grade spirit stones?" said Fang Chen indifferently. "If you''re trying to trick me for spirit stones, just say it. Don''t take me for a fool."


    The Mirror of the Universe looked embarrassed. "Brother, you''ve misunderstood me. It''s because your cultivation is too low right now. If I want to show you, I need to use certain methods, and those require spirit stones. If you''re willing to wait, once you advance to the Nascent Soul Realm, you''ll be able to see the Emperor''s Rankings. And when you reach the Enlightenment Realm, you can see the Founder''s Chronicles...."


    Fang Chen couldn''t help but feel that this fellow wasn''t being entirely honest.


    He kept calling him "brother" while keeping tabs on how many spirit stones he had. Wouldn''t it be better to just feed it to Little Sword? Little Sword just said that if it eats it, it could definitely advance and allow him to possess the third-rank sword body. His aptitude would also be perfected and he could focus on advancing to the Foundation Building Realm.


    As this idea was very tempting, it constantly circled Fang Chen''s mind.


    "Forget it, it still has its uses. I''ll keep it for now."


    Fang Chen casually stored Mirror of the Universe in his storage ring and then brought Little Sword back into his body. After that, he used the Shadow Buddha Technique to creep into the shadows, silently leaving the Fang Family Manor.


    ***


    Lord Tiger''s Manor.


    Lord Tiger was sitting with his legs crossed as he hummed a tune casually. He seemed to be in a great mood.


    Fang Chen''s voice suddenly sounded. "Lord Tiger, how did that matter go?"


    When Lord Tiger looked over, Fang Chen was already sitting opposite him.


    Lord Tiger reflexively nced at the shadow in the corner, smiling wryly in his heart.


    After a pause, he said seriously, "Fellow Cultivator Fang, I haven''t disappointed you. I''ve already contacted thirteen cultivation families and twenty-one sects in the outer city. They are ready to join forces to obtain the Binding Talisman inheritance."


    "Thirteen cultivation families? Twenty-one sects?" Fang Chen was slightly surprised. "Lord Tiger, are you joking with me? Wouldn''t the Binding Talisman inheritance be everywhere this way?"


    Lord Tiger smiled bitterly. "Even one or two families would find it hard to handle the price. Besides, I dare not approach the Fang, Jue, and royal families. They might resort to underhanded tactics and steal it by force!"


    Fang Chen furrowed his brows for a moment, then nodded lightly. "I won''t interfere with the specifics of the transaction. I''ll entrust the Binding Talisman inheritance to you, and you only need to give me ten thousand low-grade spirit stones in return."


    Lord Tiger was delighted.


    Didn''t that mean that he had gotten himself the Binding Talisman for free?


    Fang Chen tossed a jade slip and vanished into the shadows.


    Lord Tiger quickly picked up the jade slip and examined it carefully. After a moment, a satisfied smile appeared on his face. It was indeed the Binding Talisman inheritance! He could make a killing right away!


    Back in his room, Fang Chen prepared to craft several Illusion Spirit Talismans. Compared to Binding Talismans and True Fire Talismans, Illusion Spirit Talismans were much more threatening. He could sell the inheritances of Binding Talismans and True Fire Talismans, but as for Illusion Spirit Talismans... it was better not to let them spread too widely.

 Chapter 361 Catching Someone?

    <h4>Chapter 361 Catching Someone?</h4>


    Time flew by in the blink of an eye.


    The trade conference was getting closer and closer, and Fang Chen had been busy making Illusion Spirit Talismans.


    As Fang Chen depleted his spiritual energy and then recovered it, his reserves seemed to have no limit as it continued to increase without end. However, Fang Chen''s cultivation was still stuck at the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm and didn''t show any sign of a breakthrough.


    The twelve golden immortal veins in his body became increasingly robust, resembling trees that propped up the world that was his body. The sword intent of Little Sword continuously merged with Fang Chen''s flesh, tempering every cell and every drop of blood. Even his veins were strengthened.


    Although his cultivation level hadn''t increased, Fang Chen''s strength was constantly rising.


    During this period, he took some time to visit Lord Tiger and brought back ten thousand low-grade spirit stones. He also went to the Profound Void Temple and found that Xia Ji had already entered seclusion while Master Chanyuan had suddenly gone on a distant journey and was not in the imperial capital.


    There were also several cultivators who came to visit Fang Chen, hoping that he''d help them take a look at a few Immortal Origin Stones they were interested in, but those were all turned away by Li Cang.


    "Li Cang, where is the Spring Dawn Tower?" Fang Chen casually asked as he walked out of his quiet room.


    He now had three more Illusion Talismans in his storage ring, and these were of higher quality than the ones he first made, being at the mid grade. These could create hallucinations that could affect even mid-stage Foundation Building Realm cultivators and could cause trouble for those inte stage or even those in the grandpletion stage.


    "Young Master, that is the strongest pavilion in the Grand Qian Empire. It¡¯s run jointly by the royal family and the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion. It always has rare and fresh spiritual ingredients," replied Li Cang respectfully.


    Fang Chen smiled and said, "Come, lead the way. I''ll treat you to a good meal today."


    Li Cang was ecstatic. He finally gained the privilege to apany Fang Chen out!


    As the two of them left the courtyard, they noticed that several third-branch guards were on patrol. They seemed to be questioning people.


    "That was many days ago, how can I remember it clearly? And why are you asking about this now?" yelled one of the guards.


    "I''m not a worm in Fang Chen''s stomach, how would I know if he''s here?" said another guard.


    "What exactly are you third-branch people trying to do? Did Fang Chen do something wrong? There''s no reason for this," another voice chimed in.


    Li Cang''s face turned surprised. "Young Master, it seems they are talking about you."


    Fang Chen nodded lightly and led Li Cang to approach them.


    As soon as the third branch guards saw Fang Chen, their eyes immediately lit up.


    "Fang Chen is here. If you have questions, ask him yourselves," said one of the Grand Qian Guards, his eyes flickering with perplexity.


    Among them, one person stood out. It was Lin Quan. He was one of the people who tried to apprehend Fang Chen from the Profound Void Temple back then with ame excuse.


    As soon as Fang Chen saw that it was Lin Quan, he immediately had a hunch as to what was happening.


    They were probably here because of the Lin Family Head''s disappearance. The Lin Family Head didn''t disappear alone as well. He vanished with many skilled cultivators from the Lin Family.


    It had already been over ten days since it happened.


    Lin Quan stepped forward slowly and saluted respectfully. "Fang Chen, do you remember me? I am Lin Quan."


    Lin Quan had a firm and handsome face. He was slender, tall, and d in ck armor, so he had a strong aura about him. He was clearly at the sixth stage of the Qi Refining Realm.


    "Why are you people from the Lin Family here?" asked Fang Chen with a smile. "Out looking for another fugitive?"


    Lin Quan''s face froze. He smiled lightly and said, "You must be joking, Fang Chen. That matter from before was a misunderstanding and has long been resolved."


    "We are here because the Lin Family Head as well as several Qi Refining Realm disciples have disappeared," Lin Quan exined.


    "I''ve heard about this. However, the cultivation world is filled with danger and conflicts. Isn''t itmon for such incidents to ur? Maybe the Lin Family head took them out looking for rare treasures?" said Fang Chen.


    "We have already ruled out that possibility. After multiple inquiries, we have reason to suspect that the Lin Family Head and others have fallen victim to underhanded methods," replied Lin Quan, anger in his eyes. He was especially furious since one of the Qi Refining Realm cultivators who had gone missing was his father.


    "ording to thews of the Grand Qian Empire, both the inner and outer cities of the imperial capital must not witness senseless killings. If a cultivator kills, whether it''s another cultivator or an ordinary person, they must be dealt with ording to thew," exined Lin Quan.


    Fang Chen nodded with a smile. "Indeed, rules are necessary for order."


    "So may I ask, where were you on that day, Master Fang Chen?" asked Lin Quan slowly, pinpointing the exact time.


    "If I remember correctly, I was cultivating in my room at the time," said Fang Chen with a smile. "You surely don''t suspect me of being involved in the disappearance of the Lin Family Head, do you? All entries and exits from the inner city are recorded, so there is evidence anyway.


    It was then that a voice suddenly butted in. "Grand Qian Guards, you guys should not actwlessly. Fang Chen is a disciple of our Fang Family, how could he be involved in such a serious case? The Lin Family isn¡¯t exactly verywful anyway. They have enemies everywhere. There''s no reason for our family to be involved in this case,"


    It was Fang Ao,ing over slowly, followed by Fang Yun and Fang Jue.


    His gaze was sharp as an eagle''s. Just by looking at Lin Quan and the others, he caused them to feel pressured, as if a massive boulder was slowly crushing them.


    Lin Quan''s breath turned stifled, his face started showing signs of difort.


    However, a surge of energy arrived at the nick of time, dispelling Fang Ao''s pressure.


    The head of the Fang Family, Fang Kun, had arrived with a middle-aged man in ck armor. This middle-aged man was the person who dispelled Fang Ao''s aura.


    Lin Quan and the others hurriedly stepped forward to pay their respects.


    "Lord Shentu!"


    The third branch disciples around also bowed to Fang Kun. Their eyes showed surprise.


    A Grand Qian Guards general actually came?


    The Grand Qian Guards were the most elite military force in the Grand Qian Empire. Since the early days of the empire, the Grand Qian Guards had existed as a specially trained elite force for warfare.


    Back then, the Grand Qian Guards wereposed of martial artists, simr to the three thousand guards of the Profound Void Temple. They were experts at the Heaven Profound Stage, proficient in various martial arts, killing techniques, battle strategies, and tactics.


    When they were coupled with powerful weapons, the Grand Qian Guards would be a headache even for those at the Foundation Building Realm. After many years of advancement, the Grand Qian Guards were now led by Foundation Building Realm cultivators, who led Martial Emperors.


    Every Foundation Building Realm cultivator in the Grand Qian Guards had been an elite soldier who was specially selected to be nurtured into a Foundation Building Realm cultivator.


    And it had to be said that Foundation Building Realm cultivators that came from a martial background often had much more lethal techniques than ordinary cultivators, earning them the title of "generals." Currently, there were thirty-six such generals in the Grand Qian Guards, each with varying cultivation levels!


    Li Cang stepped forward and stood between Fang Ao and the ck-armored general. "Brother Fang Ao, the younger generation acts on orders. Why make things difficult for them?"


    The ck-armored general looked at Fang Ao and chuckled lightly. He nced at Li Cang with a hint of yful mockery in his eyes. A mere Martial King... even if ten of them stood in front of him, he wouldn''t put them in his eyes.


    "General Shentu, I understand that you have been investigating the matter concerning the Lin Family recently. But how could this matter be rted to Fang Chen? It makes no sense at all," said Fang Ao calmly.


    Fang Kun furrowed his brows slightly. "Fang Ao, General Shentu is just carrying out his routine duties. Even a slight possibility needs to be investigated. It''s the responsibility of the Grand Qian Guards. Don''t be hasty with your words."


    "And what clues have been found so far?" asked Fang Ao.


    General Shentu looked at Lin Quan, who shook his head gently. The general then smiled and said, "There''s no need to rush. You can ask him whatever you want when you get back."


    Fang Chen was slightly taken aback. Were they going to apprehend him?

 Chapter 362 Spring Dawn Tower

    <h4>Chapter 362 Spring Dawn Tower</h4>


    Fang Ao''s eyes narrowed. "What''s the meaning of this, General Shentu?"


    "Feng Ao, it has been brought to our attention that Young Master Fang Chen had a feud with the Lin Family. ording to our investigation process, anyone who''s suspected muste with us for questioning. There''s no other intention behind it, please understand," replied General Shentu with a smile.


    Fang Chen''s eyes flickered. "This doesn''t seem right."


    Their decision to arrest him today, of all days, was suspicious. If they brought him away now, he might not be able to make it to Spring Dawn Tower. Considering the second prince''s temperament, he might consider him an enemy if he failed to show up after he extended him an invitation.


    <i>Is this about Jue Wudi?</i>


    He could imagine Jue Wudi adding fuel to the fire when he wasn¡¯t there. Qian Feng would be unable to back down in front of everyone.


    <i>Unfortunately, he miscalcted. I don''t care about Qian Feng''s attitude toward me. Whether you want me as your pawn or not, it''s a bit of a stretch to do something like this....</i>


    "The Grand Qian Guards want to take Fang Chen away?"


    "Do they really have evidence?"


    The disciples from the third branch were surprised.


    They didn''t believe Fang Chen could kill the head of the Lin Family, especially since the head of the Lin Family was in the Foundation Building Realm. However, they were not stupid either. They could tell that there were people behind the scenes pushing this issue, otherwise, a general wouldn''t have personallye to apprehend Fang Chen.


    "General Shentu, Fang Chen is a member of my third branch. Please refrain from breaking the rules. If you have any evidence, do tell," said Fang Ao calmly.


    Fang Kun frowned. "Feng Ao, the Grand Qian Guards act ording to thew. Don''t be impulsive. Them taking Fang Chen isn''t too bad of a thing, at least he can clear away the suspicions around him."


    ¡°You speak wisely. Family Head Fang Kun. This is, after all, thend of Grand Qian. Whether it''s the Fang Family or anyone else, they must abide by thews of the Grand Qian Empire. Feng Ao, don''t obstruct us. I''m just inviting him toe back and answer some questions. As long as he had nothing to do with the disappearance of the Lin Family Head, he will return safely to your Fang Family,¡± said General Shentu with a faint smile. "He muste back with me. There''s no changing that."


    Suddenly, a voice rang through the skies. "The Lin Family? The Lin Family of the Eighteenth District? Did their family head disappear? When did that happen?"


    Everyone turned to see a pale-faced young man standing not far away.


    Fang Kun and the others were shocked. They quickly bowed and saluted.


    "Greetings, Old Ancestor!"


    This was the true ancestor of the Fang Family, with a seniority higher than even Fang Wanli!


    General Shentu put away his smile and bowed respectfully. "Greetings, Old Ancestor!"


    "Let me ask you again. When did the head of the Lin Family disappear?¡± asked Fang Tingjian calmly.


    General Shentu reflexively looked at Lin Quan, who then recounted the time of the Lin Family head''s disappearance.


    "Oh, you mean that day. Fang Chen was with me that day. If you suspect him, I guess I¡¯m under suspicion too. Perhaps I should go back with you and answer some questions," said Fang Tingjian.


    Fang Chen was surprised that Fang Tingjian would provide an alibi without so much as a question.


    Fang Kun''s face turned surprised.


    General Shentu froze for a moment. After a while, he forced a smile and said, "You''re joking, Old Ancestor Fang. How could the disappearance of the Lin Family head have anything to do with you, Sir?"


    "If it has nothing to do with me, then what does it have to do with Fang Chen?" Fang Tingjian frowned. "Your Grand Qian Guards must act with caution, don''t just jump to conclusions. You represent thews of the Grand Qian Empire, and the people will scrutinize every action you take. If word gets out, it may seem like we''ve be muddleheaded and ourws mean nothing! Won''t the other empires take us for a barbaric state?"


    The disciples of the third branch were secretly shocked, and their gazes toward Fang Chen became highly unusual. This sort of special treatment, where the old ancestor himself took action, waspletely unheard of in the family!


    General Shentu didn''t dare to argue. He bowed his head respectfully. "Yes, Old Ancestor Fang, I have been negligent in my considerations today. Please forgive me,"


    Fang Tingjian waved his hand lightly. "Go."


    General Shentu didn''t wait for even a second and quickly led Lin Quan and the others away.


    After they left, Fang Kun hesitated slightly.


    Fang Tingjian''s gaze fell on Fang Kun. "Fang Kun, you''re the family Head. Why are you allowing them to apprehend a disciple?"


    Fang Kun smiled bitterly. "Old Ancestor, General Shentu has official documents. His actionsplied with thew. If I didn''t agree, wouldn''t it seem as if our family doesn''t respect the empire''sws?"


    "That''s true. You were put in a difficult spot." Fang Tingjian nodded lightly and then turned to leave. "Fortunately, this was just a misunderstanding."


    The onlookers watched as he departed, and after Fang Tingjian''s figurepletely disappeared, Fang Kun looked at Fang Chen and said lightly, "You''ve only been here for a short time yet you''ve already caused quite a bit of trouble. I hope you can calm down in the future. The family can''t afford any more upheavals."


    With that, Fang Kun didn''t wait for Fang Chen''s response and turned to leave.


    Fang Ao couldn''t help butugh suddenly after Fang Kun left. ¡°Fang Chen, you''re quite something. The old ancestor personally vouched for you. General Shentu''s face turned green with fright just now.¡±


    Fang Chen smiled. "Not at all, Elder Fang Ao. Thank you for speaking up for me."


    "You''re wee. You are a disciple of my third branch, so I naturally have to look out for you," said Fang Ao.


    After exchanging a few words, Fang Chen took Li Cang and left for the Spring Dawn Tower.


    ***


    Spring Dawn Tower.


    Qian Feng was sitting upright in the host seat. There were beautiful maidservants on both sides serving him. In front of him were ced many spiritual fruits and delicacies. They were full of spiritual energy. It was clear they were far from ordinary.


    Below him on both sides were dozens of tables, each upied by a group of young men and women, with maidservants kneeling beside them.


    These young men and women carried themselves with pride. When they spoke, their words were rife with arrogance. They were either descendants of the Jue Family or the Fang Family, or they were the proud elites of the other five major families in the inner city or even the chief disciples of various major sects in the outer city.


    All of them had transcendent statuses yet they all gathered here on the ount of Qian Feng.


    However, today, as these youngsters chatted, their eyes couldn''t help but be drawn to the empty seat to the right of Qian Feng every once in a while.


    There was an empty table, and across from it was Jue Wudi.


    A young man sitting near the front suddenly spoke up. "I heard that you invited Fang Chen from the Fang Family today, Second Prine. How dare he be so rude, he''s runningte! How arrogant."


    This was a descendant of the Jue Family, although his cultivation couldn''tpare to Jue Wudi''s, he was still among the top disciples of his family, having reached the 11th stage of the Qi Refining Realm.


    His words made many people, who had been pretending to be immersed in their chats, stop talking. They all turned to look at Qian Feng.


    Qian Feng squinted. He was chewing on a piece of spiritual fruit that had been delivered right to his mouth by a beautiful maidservant. After a few moments, he smiledzily and said, "Perhaps he is already on his way here."


    Jue Wudi cleared his throat softly, drawing everyone''s attention.


    Qian Feng looked at Jue Wudi. "Wudi, do you have something to say?"


    Jue Wudi spoke softly. "I heard that the Eighteenth District''s Lin Family Head''s disappearance is rted to Fang Chen. He might not be able to make it here today."

 Chapter 363: Little Beggar

    Chapter 363: Little Beggar


    "Hmm?" Qian Feng furrowed his brows slightly. "How can this matter be rted to him?"


    "I heard that Fang Chen had conflicts with the Lin Family before," said Jue Wudi. "Due to an incident down at Immortal Origin District, he crippled Lin Yu, the son of the Lin Family Head, and that''s how the enmity began. Now that the Lin Family Head has gone missing, it''s natural for the Grand Qian Guards to call Fang Chen in for questioning. It''s protocol."


    "We can''t hang around with a suspect," muttered someone softly.


    Qian Feng frowned.


    Although he was the second prince, he couldn''t control the Grand Qian Guards. If they were really targeting Fang Chen, then Fang Chen would lose his value as a potential ally. He didn''t want to get on the Grand Qian Guards'' bad side just for Fang Chen.


    At that moment, a servant from the Spring Dawn Tower hurriedly entered the hall and said respectfully, "Reporting to the Second Prince, Fang Chen from the Fang Family has arrived. Shall I let him in?"


    The crowd''s expressions turned surprised, and they reflexively looked toward Jue Wudi.


    Jue Wudi remained calm and lightly smiled. "It seems he has resolved the matter. It should be a misunderstanding."


    Qian Feng''s lips curled up slightly. "Let him in."


    Master Wu was sitting at one of the tables. Although he was deadpanned, seemingly not caring about Fang Chen''s arrival, his palm was trembling under his table.


    Before long, the servant escorted Fang Chen into the hall, with Li Cang following closely behind.


    Just as Li Cang was about to step inside, the Spring Dawn Tower servant stopped him. "Sorry, servants cannot enter the hall," he said, then turned to Fang Chen. "Everyone''s attendants must remain outside, and Your Excellency''s is no exception."


    Some people inside the hall chuckled. "Indeed, how are servants qualified to sit around with us?"


    Li Cang didn''t think much of it. He bowed to Fang Chen before turning to leave. However, Fang Chen took out twenty spirit stones, tossed them to him, and said,


    "Go treat yourself to a meal. If there¡¯s any leftover spirit stones, you can keep them."


    Li Cang''s heart leaped with joy and he said, "Thank you, Master!"


    Li Cang tried to calm down as he continued on his way out.


    The Spring Dawn Tower¡¯s attendant was stunned. Twenty low-grade spirit stones? This young Fang Family member actually gave his attendant twenty low-grade spirit stones! Such extravagant generosity was unheard of!


    Except very select few from the people in the hall today, who would be willing to spend twenty spirit stones on a mere servant! Even to them, twenty spirit stones wasn''t a small sum at all! Not one of them would be willing to hand their attendants that much.


    The crowd''s face darkened when they saw this. They couldn''t help but recall how wealthy this young man was.


    He was too damn rich!


    After Fang Chen took his seat, Qian Feng immediately introduced him warmly. "Everyone, this is Master Fang. A few days ago, Master Fang disyed his astonishing skills back at the Jade River Pavilion. Even I have to admire him."


    Master Wu''s heart sank, but he had no choice but to force a smile.


    Everyone began to say hello to Fang Chen, but they weren''t very into it, acting reserved. That was because they all knew that Fang Chen was Xia Ji''s friend, and Xia Ji hadpletely offended Jue Wudi.


    Qian Feng suddenly said, "Master Fang, I just heard from Wudi that you were rted to the Lin Family Head''s disappearance."


    Jue Wudi smiled. "Those were just rumors I heard, Your Highness. Please don''t paint me out as the viin here."


    Fang Chen nodded softly. "The Grand Qian Guards came to the Fang Family looking for me."


    The crowd''s brows scrunched up. The Grand Qian Guards went to the Fang Family to find Fang Chen?


    Given their understanding of the Grand Qian Guards, they should have apprehended Fang Chen for questioning.


    Qian Feng was quite curious. "Oh? What happened after that?"


    Fang Chen smiled and said, "The Old Ancestor stepped in and helped me out by proving that I was with him on the day of the incident. So General Shentu from the Grand Qian Guards understood the situation and took his men away."


    A hint of disbelief shed in Fang Lingxing''s eyes. Their family''s Old Ancestor stepped in to help Fang Chen? This was something she hadn''t expected!


    The expressions of the crowd slightly changed, and they looked at Fang Chen differently. It seemed that the Fang Family valued him greatly.


    Qian Feng suddenly realized something, and his smile became even warmer. "Come, let''s have some wine."


    They all drank for a while, and by the time they were about to pour themselves a third cup, amotion suddenly arose from outside.


    "Why is this little beggar so stinky?"


    "How strange, why would a beggar appear in the inner city?"


    "Now I''ve seen everything."


    "A little beggar? How could we have beggars in the inner city?"


    Everyone was confused by themotion.


    Qian Feng was the first to walk up to the window to look down. The others also left their seats and gathered at the window to see what was happening.


    On the street, a small and skinny beggar looked lost and confused. She wore ragged clothes with visible wounds, some already festering, emitting a foul smell.


    "I''m so hungry..." murmured Jiang Tianai softly.


    A woman on the street felt pity toward Jiang Tianai and picked up an oil cake before handing it to her.


    "You can have this," said the woman in a low voice.


    <em>Smack!</em>


    The crisp sound of a heavy p resounded.


    The oil cake fell to the ground and got covered in dust.


    The woman, shocked, held her cheek where she had been pped and looked at the middle-aged man who struck her. "What are you doing? Do you know who I am¡­?"


    Before she could finish, the middle-aged man took out a golden dragon token and said calmly, "I am a member of the Jue Family''s Dragon Guards. What do you think will happen if you obstruct us?¡±


    The woman became terrified and shook her head repeatedly, too scared to speak further. That was a Jue Family¡¯s Dragon Guard!


    No one dared to provoke the Jue Family in the inner city. They were one of the three major powers in the Grand Qian Empire!


    "This little beggar¡¯s ancestors offended my Jue Family. The Family Head said that she must beg in the imperial capital for a hundred days, but no one is allowed to give her food, and no one is allowed to intervene or interfere. Otherwise, you''ll be going against my Jue Family!¡± said the middle-aged man, his tone menacing as he scanned the crowd.


    The Jue Family''s Dragon Guards?


    The eyes of the people in the Spring Dawn Tower unconsciously fell on Jue Wudi.


    Qian Feng''s expression turned curious. "Wudi, who is this little girl, and how did she offend your Jue Family?"


    Jue Wudi smiled bitterly. "This is an ancestral feud. I don''t know much about it either."


    An ancestral feud?


    It wouldn''t have been a big deal if the Jue Family killed her directly, but they chose to humiliate her instead in order to vent their anger. This feud can''t be simple.


    Fang Chen''s divine soul had already appeared above the Spring Dawn Tower, quietly observing Jiang Tianai.


    Fang Chen''s brow furrowed slightly. "How did thisss be like this?"


    If Jiang Zhong chose to bring her to the Grand Qian Empire, he had to have had enough confidence in his sess chances. So why did the Jue Family turn on them?


    Could it be rted to the legacy left by the Jiang Family?

 Chapter 364: I Want to Take Her Away, Do You Have Any Objections?

    Chapter 364: I Want to Take Her Away, Do You Have Any Objections?


    Upon hearing the words of the Jue Family''s Dragon Guard, the people on the street were shocked and couldn''t believe their eyes as they looked at the little beggar.


    What did she do in order to warrant such treatment from the Jue Family?


    Even if someone offended the Jue Family, they''d usually be killed outright.


    If the Jue Family treated her this way, then they had to absolutely hate her.


    Standing in the void and watching this unfold, Fang Chen looked at Jiang Tianai''s expression before he turned to look at the tea house that was not too far.


    Jue Feichen''s face was dark as he looked down at Jian Tianai. "How about it? Still unwilling to hand over the Heavenly Supreme Pill Technique?"


    Jiang Zhong was with them; however, he was restrained. His arms had long been cut off, and his nose and ears had been cut off, leaving him with only a pair of eyes and a mouth.


    He looked at Jiang Tianai''s current appearance with pain, regret, and heartache.


    Jiang Zhong''s eyes turned to Jue Feichan. "You people from the Jue Family won''t have a good end" he cursed hoarsely. "Once upon a time, you were all just a bunch of servants of the Jiang Family. You wouldn''t be where you are today without the chance of cultivation bestowed by the Jiang Family''s ancestors! And yet, you treat us like this! Aren''t you afraid of divine retribution?""Divine retribution?" Jue Feichen''s eyes were rife with cold mockery. "If there were divine retribution, how could your Jiang Family have fallen to this state today? Don''t talk to me about divine retribution, it''s not realistic. Let''s talk about the present situation, shall we?"


    Jiang Zhong let out a coldugh and looked mockingly at Jue Feichen. "If we hand you the Heavenly Supreme Pill Technique, the youngdy will undoubtedly die. As long as you don''t obtain this technique, you won''t bear to kill the youngdy. As for my life, it''s of no concern to you, right?"


    Jue Feichen lightly said, "Do you have the heart to watch her suffer like this? Even if we don''t kill her, we have many ways to keep her tortured for a lifetime. I can even feed her pills that will increase her lifespan so she suffers more."


    Jiang Zhong''s face turned pale as he imagined the scene. He gritted his teeth and said, "Suffering is better than death. Your Old Ancestor is reaching the end of his lifespan, isn''t he? You want the Heavenly Supreme Pill technique so you can recreate the legendary divine pill extend his lifespan and defy the heavens, right? Well, you can dream on!"


    "Alright then, today I''ll let you see what kind of suffering you''ve made Jiang Tianai endure. I¡¯ll let you watch for a year, ten years, a hundred years," said Jue Feichen, smirking. "As long as she stays in the capital, no one can change this."


    Suddenly, Jue Feichen frowned and looked in the direction of Jiang Tianai.


    Jiang Zhong, who had just been about to curse Jue Feichen, also paused momentarily. A sliver of excitement had appeared in his eyes before it dimmed back down.


    They were in the capital city. Even if someone pitied Jiang Tianai, they couldn''t change the Jue Family''s decision. The woman just now was an example.


    Fang Chen walked through the crowd and approached Jiang Tianai. With a wave of his hand, the wood elemental energy in the air slowly condensed and enveloped her.


    She began to heal at a visible speed.


    This cold sensation made Jiang Tianai close her eyes infort.


    The middle-aged man became furious. He couldn''t help but wonder if he wasn''t harsh enough with his words already!


    The crowd was astonished. They stared at Fang Chen with shock.


    Up in the Spring Dawn Tower, everyone looked at each other in confusion.


    When did Fang Chen leave? And why was he meddling in the Jue Family¡¯s affairs?


    Jue Wudi frowned slightly, then slowly rxed and said lightly, "Although I don''t agree with passing down hatred to the next generation, this is the decision of our Jue Family ancestors. If Fang Chen wants to intervene, he will suffer for this."


    Everyone nodded.


    This junior of the Fang Family had garnered a bit of a reputation and already became so arrogant. He was really courting death if he wanted to meddle in the Jue Family''s affairs.


    "You really have the heart of a bear and the courage of a leopard for you to dare meddle in the Jue Family''s affairs!" said the middle-aged man angrily as he delivered a p toward Fang Chen''s face.


    The spiritual energy around him surged violently and became extremely ferocious.


    Fang Chen just nced at him. "Get lost."


    Before the middle-aged man could react, a golden-armored warrior had already materialized and grabbed his head tightly. Then, with a fierce swing, it tossed the middle-aged man hundreds of feet away. He flew in the air before crashing heavily on the ground.


    The armored warrior had broken the protective spiritual energy barrier around the middle-aged man easily. Although he was in the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm, his physical body wasn''t anything special, so the impact had almost knocked him out cold. He was barely able to crawl up to his feet after a while.


    The crowd was stunned. Not only did Fang Chen meddle in the Jue Family''s affairs, but he also dared to attack the Jue Family''s Dragon Guard!


    One of the people at the Spring Dawn tower looked at Jue Wudi, feeling indignant. "This guy clearly doesn''t put the Jue Family in his at all! He even dared to attack a Jue Family cultivator. Senior Brother Jue, do you want to take action?"


    "This matter will be dealt with by someone else, there''s no need for us to do anything," said Jue Wudi lightly as he shook his head. The way he looked at Fang Chen had turned even more stern.


    Fang Lingxing''s expression wasplicated. She had been lost to Fang Chen when it came to mastery over the Five Elements technique. She believed that, if it weren''t for this one technique where he triumphed over her, she would''ve easily been able to defeat him.


    "His control over the Five Elements technique is just¡­." Qian Feng sighed with some admiration. "For him to be able to refine his control over the metal elemental energy to this degree means that¡­ he¡¯s probably unmatched in his generation."


    Master Wu suddenly realized that Fang Chen was not only skilled at Immortal Origin Stones, but he also had strongbat capabilities!


    <em>p</em>


    <em>p!</em>


    <em>p!</em>


    Suddenly, apuse echoed in the air as more than ten figures appeared. Most of them exuded the aura of the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm. One of them was even in the Foundation Building Realm.


    The Foundation Building Realm cultivator was the one pping as he closed in on Fang Chen and Jiang Tianai with the rest.


    He ordered his men to clear out the area before he lightly said, "Young man, you have great courage, but do you know that you''ve just brought upon yourself a huge disaster?"


    Fang Chen smiled. "Oh? What huge disaster?"


    The wood elemental energy continued to circte around Jiang Tianai. Her injuries were mostly healed now. The remaining internal injuries needed to recover slowly with time.


    "She is an enemy of my Jue Family, and you intervened in the affairs of my Jue Family, injuring one of our Dragon Guards. Tell me, isn''t this a disaster? Which family are you from? Perhaps your family will have to pay a painful price because of you," said the Jue Family Foundation Building Realm cultivator menacingly, his nose in the air.


    He was looking at Fang Chen as if he was a dead man already.


    "My name is Fang Chen," said Fang Chen lightly.


    The onlookers were stunned. He''s someone from the Fang Family? No wonder he dared to help her!


    "Could he be the one who returned to the Fang Family just recently? Fang Chen?"


    "That should be him. He easily defeated someone at the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm¡­ He¡¯s definitely the one. I heard that he defeated Fang Lingxing easily during thepetition in his third branch.¡±


    "He¡¯s definitely among the top juniors in his generation.¡±


    Whispers and murmurs filled the air.


    The Jue Family Foundation Building Realm cultivator was slightly taken aback. The pride on his face faded a bit, and his eyes showed some uncertainty.


    "You are from the Fang Family?"


    Fang Chen spoke softly without answering his question. "I want to take her away, do you have any objections?"

 Chapter 365: What If I Dont?

    Chapter 365: What If I Don''t?


    The expression of the Jue Family Foundation Building Realm cultivator turned into one of shock.


    After a moment, he suppressed his anger and said, "Even if you are from the Fang Family, you must not intervene in this matter. I''ll give you onest chance. Turn around and leave immediately, don''t poke your nose in this! If your elders at home find out, they will only scold you! Do you want to cause a war between the Jue and Fang Families?"


    Fang Chen''s voice was soft as he said, "I''m asking you a question. Do you have a problem if I take her away?¡±


    The Jue Family Foundation Building Realm cultivator immediately became furious. His face turned cold, and a terrifying aura that belonged to a Foundation Building Realm cultivator swept out. It overwhelmed the surrounding cultivators, making it difficult to breathe for them.


    "So frightening! No wonder he''s a Foundation Building Realm cultivator. The difference between him and Qi Refining Realm cultivators like us is too vast!"


    "Does this Fang Family disciple really dare to provoke the Jue Family¡¯s Foundation Building Realm cultivator repeatedly?"


    The crowd was shocked.


    "If I make a move, you and your family will be embarrassed today," he said coldly.


    At the Spring Dawn Tower, Jue Wudi spoke softly, "This Foundation Building Realm cultivator is an elder of the main branch. He has been fond of martial arts since childhood and onlyter turned to the path of cultivation. Fang Chen probably won''t be able tost more than three moves against him. Second Prince, perhaps you might want to offer Fang Chen a friendly reminder so he can save himself the embarrassment?"Qian Feng burst outughing. "Why not see how many moves Fang Chen''s Five Elements Technique can withstand against a Foundation Building Realm cultivator?"


    Everyone burst intoughter.


    "I bet he won''tst even three moves."


    "How can a Qi Refining Realm cultivator have any chance against a Foundation Building Realm cultivator?"


    "I think Fang Chen is a little too ignorant of the immensity of heaven and earth. Being so disrespectful to a Foundation Building Realm cultivator of the Jue Family may be rted to his upbringing outside. He trulycks manners.¡±


    The Jue Family Foundation Building cultivator sneered, and in a mocking tone, he said, "Youngsters nowadays¡­ hmph, really don''t know when to give up."


    Seeing that Fang Chen showed no intention of backing down, he chuckled lightly. Suddenly, pops came from his body. To the disbelief of everyone present, his muscles began to swell.


    In the blink of an eye, he transformed from an ordinary person into a giant. He was even taller than the armored warrior from earlier.


    The terrifying and thick aura of blood and qi was like a scorching sun. The subtle pressure made people''s scalps tingle. They couldn''t even muster a shred of resistance.


    "What kind of technique is this!?"


    "So terrifying! I feel like this elder can crush a mountain with just one punch!"


    "Is he a martial artist or a cultivator!"


    "Is he... that crazy martial artist, Jue Tiangang, from the main branch of the Jue Family Family? I heard hebined martial arts with cultivation techniques, creating a special body refinement technique. He once fought two peers without falling at a disadvantage."


    "Ordinary techniques can''t harm him at all. He can even withstand many techniques with his body alone without the need for spiritual energy!"


    There was a group of young men and women standing not too far away. They were from the fourth branch of the Fang Family, and they were led by the fourth branch''s chief disciple, Fang Xiu.


    He had been the only one who couldpete against Fang Lingxing before Fang Chen appeared.


    "Big Brother Fang Xiu, it seems the rumors are true. This technique is truly terrifying. I feel... even if he stands still, we might not be able to harm him at all, even if we join forces," eximed a member of the Fourth Branch.


    Fang Xiu nodded slightly, his expression equally grave.


    At that moment, someone eximed in a low voice, "Isn''t that Fang Chen from the third branch?! How is he confronting Jue Tiangang?"


    "Is it really Fang Chen?" Fang Xiu''s expression changed slightly. He hadn''t seen Fang Chen before, so he couldn''t recognize him immediately.


    "Oh no, Fang Chen has no chance against Jue Tiangang!"


    Fang Xiu hesitated. He wasn''t sure whether to step forward and help or not. However, before he coulde to a decision, Jue Tiangang made his move.


    Despite his giant-like stature, he was not slow. He was as fast as lightning. He appeared in front of Fang Chen in just the blink of an eye before aiming a punch toward Fang Chen''s head.


    There was a hint of disdain on his proud, high and mighty face as he looked down at Fang Chen, like a deity looking down upon ants.


    The next moment, Fang Chen raised his head and looked at Jue Tiangang.


    His once-closed eyes were now open, revealing grayish-white pupils as still as dead water, devoid of any ripples. He lookedpletely indifferent.


    For some reason, Jue Tiangang suddenly felt a sense of unease rise in his heart.


    Then, two armored warriors appeared out of nowhere, delivering a barrage of punches thatnded on Jue Tiangang''s body.


    <em>Bang bang bang!</em>


    The loud bangs were like the tolling of a bell, shaking people''s hearts and causing their eardrums to throb.


    They saw several bursts of blood mist erupt from Jue Tiangang''s body as the two armored warriors crushed his massive frame, sending him crashing to the ground.


    His eyes were tightly shut. He had been clearly knocked out cold. He was visibly shrinking back to his usual size.


    The Jue Family¡¯s Dragon Guards he had brought with him all gasped in shock. Their eyes were wide open with shock, and their tongues felt all tied up. They were unable to muster a word amidst their anger and astonishment.


    The surrounding cultivators exchanged looks, all witnessing the deep shock and disbelief in each other''s eyes.


    What had they just witnessed?!


    A Foundation Building Realm cultivator from the Jue Family actually lost to a Qi Refining Realm disciple?!


    Were their eyes ying tricks on them?


    One of the onlookers couldn''t help but rub their eyes.


    Jue Tiangang had indeed lost.


    He had utterly lost without any ability to fight back!


    Fang Xiu was dumbfounded. "This¡­."


    The members of the fourth branch who were beside him were just as stunned. They stood in their ces, frozen, as still as statues. They couldn''t believe what they were seeing.


    At the Spring Dawn Pavilion, the smile on Jue Wudi''s face froze. Despite his usual calm demeanor, there was a hint of astonishment in his eyes.


    Fang Lingxing and others showed expressions of disbelief.


    <em>What just happened?!</em>


    A Foundation Building Realm cultivator was defeated by a Qi Refining Realm junior!


    Didn''t Jue Wudi just say that in Jue Tiangang''s hands, Fang Chen wouldn''tst more than three moves?


    "The two armored warriors... his control over the Five Elements technique has reached a profound level. How much effort and time has this young man put into this aspect?" muttered Qian Feng.


    In the tea house¡­.


    Jue Feichen frowned.


    Fang Chen defeated even Jue Tiangang. This wasn''t something he anticipated.


    Not to mention the terrifying gap between Foundation Building Realm and Qi Refining Realm, just the fact that Jue Tiangang had created this extraordinary body refining technique made it nearly impossible for opponents at the same level to beat him.


    Unless his opponents had extremely high-level spiritual treasures, ordinary techniques wouldn¡¯t be enough to break through his defenses!


    Jiang Zhong stared fixedly at Fang Chen as extreme excitement began to rise up in his heart.


    "It''s Master Fang! The Young Lady might have a chance!" he eximed.


    Fang Chen had been wearing a mask thest time they were together, so he didn''t know how he looked. But Jiang Zhong was sure this was Fang Chen judging by his demeanor and actions!


    Having spent some time with Fang Chen, Jiang Zhong trusted that he wasn''t mistaken!


    For a moment, the streets, the Spring Dawn Pavilion, and the people in the tea house fell intoplete silence.


    It wasn''t until Jue Wudi saw Fang Chen preparing to leave with Jiang Tianai that he finally coldly snorted while looking down at him.


    "Leave that person behind, Fang Chen."


    Fang Xiu andpany recognized Jue Wudi immediately and were shocked. "Is that Jue Wudi?"


    Why was Jue Wudi here too?


    Fang Chen didn''t turn around. He just smiled lightly and said, "What if I don''t?"

 Chapter 366: Difficult to Settle

    Chapter 366: Difficult to Settle


    "It''s Young Master Wudi!"


    The Jue Family''s Dragon Guards breathed a sigh of relief. With Young Master Wudi present, things would be easier to handle. They had some understanding of Young Master Wudi''s abilities, so they were quite confident.


    Although Jue Tiangang was strong enough to fight against two ordinary experts at the same level, they knew that Jue Tiangang had fought against Young Master Wudi in the past.


    Young Master Wudi had made Jue Tiangang admit defeat in just ten moves!


    The matter was kept secret within the Jue Family and was not spread outside.


    "If you don''t leave her behind, you won''t be able to leave today," said Jue Wudi softly. "This has nothing to do with you, Fang Chen. I don''t want to take action against you. Don''t force me."


    Fang Lingxing suddenly spoke up. "Fang Chen, hurry up and leave her here! Stop meddling in their affairs!"


    Fang Hu and the others were surprised to hear that voice. "Fang Lingxing is here too?"


    The Jue Family disciples began to shout at Fang Chen."Fang Chen, listen to Young Master Wudi. Don''t think you''re undefeatable just because you''re proficient in controlling the five elements!"


    "I think you''re tired of living if you want to meddle in the affairs of the Jue Family! All you¡¯re doing is causing trouble for your family!¡±


    As for the others, because they were from the other five families in the inner city, they didn''t dare to speak out.


    But when they looked at Fang Chen, besides the slight shock of him defeating Jue Tiangang, there was also a hint of anger in their eyes.


    He was clearly breaking some unspoken rules in the imperial capital.


    "Young Master, please... you don¡¯t have to bother about me anymore." Jiang Tianai, who had been silent, suddenly spoke up. She bowed to Fang Chen and then walked toward the Jue Family''s Dragon Guards.


    The nearby bystanders were somewhat surprised, looking at Jiang Tianai''s thin and slightly staggering figure, their expressions were filled with emotion.


    If they were to fall into such a situation, they would absolutely cling to any help they could find. They''d clutch to it like a lifesaving straw and refuse to let it go. How could they act like Jiang Tianai, willingly walking toward the abyss to avoid implicating others?


    The corners of the mouths of the Jue Family''s Dragon Guards slightly lifted. Even Jue Wudi showed a faint smile.


    "<em>Your family''s Mirror of the Universe is not simple. Since I have epted this item, I owe you a favor,</em>" said Fang Chen''s voice suddenly rang in Jiang Tianai''s ear.


    Jiang Tianai was startled. She stopped in her tracks and looked at Fang Chen with joy. He was that person!


    Fang Chen smiled and reached his hand out. "Come here."


    Jiang Tianai''s heart skipped a beat.


    "But..."


    She didn''t want to burden him anymore.


    The Jue Family members'' expressions turned solemn.


    A few momentster, Jiang Tianai clenched her teeth, turned around, and walked back. When she reached Fang Chen, she hesitated for a moment before gently cing her hand in Fang Chen''s palm.


    At that moment, Jiang Tianai finally felt a hint of warmth. His palm was like the warm, rising sun amidst the cold environment.


    Jue Wudi''s voice sounded faintly. "Fang Chen, are you really going to take away my family''s enemy?"


    Fang Chen smiled lightly. "Yes, what are you going to do about it?"


    The onlookers looked odd. In the imperial capital, was there still a junior brave enough to confront Jue Wudi head-on? Thest one they remembered was... Xia Ji, from the Profound Void Temple! It seemed that after that incident, Xia Ji disappeared for a while. It was said that he had fled from Grand Qian just to avoid Jue Wudi.


    "Fang Chen, stop causing trouble for our family already," said Fang Lingxing sternly. "Otherwise, I will report what you''re doing and highlight its consequences to the ancestor so he can step forward and personally punish you."


    "If Fang Lingxing is saying this, it means that the Fang Family won¡¯t side with Fang Cheng on this¡­."


    Hushed whispers rang through the crowd.


    At the same time, Fang Xiu and others also understood the situation. They slowly walked up to Fang Chen, with Fang Xiu smiling at Jiang Tianai first, then addressing Fang Chen, "I am Fang Xiu from the fourth branch."


    Fang Chen nodded softly. "Hello."


    Everyone at the Spring Dawn Tower was surprised to see Fang Xiu and the others. They reflexively looked toward Fang Lingxing.


    "Who said the Fang Family won¡¯t interfere in this matter?" Fang Xiu scanned the crowd and said lightly, "The powerful Jue Family is bullying a little girl. Even if there was a feud between their ancestors, killing without regard for consequences is an invitation for unnecessary humiliation. If Fang Chen wants to handle this trivial matter, then I, Fang Xiu, will also be taking part in it! All the disciples of the Fang Family''s fourth branch will take Fang Chen''s side!"


    "That''s right, we''ll deal with this!"


    "Bullying a little girl! How heroic! If news gets out, it''ll only be a joke."


    The fourth branch disciples looked proud. Their eyes swept around before theynded on the Jue Family''s Dragon Guards, full of provocation.


    The atmosphere grew increasingly tense. It seemed like this matter was going to escte further. Even Fang Xiu, the chief disciple of the fourth branch, stood on Fang Chen''s side¡­.


    "Fang Xiu, don''t act recklessly! Whatever happened before was up to you, but this matter is different. It''s an internal affair of the Jue Family. Why should our Fang Family''s disciples interfere?" Fang Lingxing eximed angrily.


    Fang Xiu''s gaze swept across the Spring Dawn Tower, passing over Second Prince Qian Feng and others one by one, before finallynding on Fang Lingxing. He smiled and said, "Fang Lingxing, what do you mean by Jue Family¡¯s internal affairs? I just saw something that is hard to ept morally."


    Fang Lingxing was furious "You!"


    She knew Fang Xiu''s temperament. Although he was usually low-key and didn''t speak much, once he had his mind set on something, not even ten bulls could sway him away from it.


    More and more onlookers gathered around.


    Fang Yun seemed puzzled. "Senior Brother, Ninth Prince, isn''t that Fang Chen? Wasn''t he having dinner with the Second Prince today? Why is he here?"


    "Fang Xiu is also here. What did he mean by ''hard to ept morally'' just now?" said Fang Jue, shocked. He immediately began asking the people around him about what was going on.


    Qian Jiuye remained silent, his gaze shifting between Fang Chen and Qian Feng.


    Soon, Fang Jue understood the situation and immediately informed the two of them through a voice transmission.


    Fang Yun immediately turned angry. "No way! Has the Jue Family gone mad? Why are they treating a little girl like this?"


    Qian Jiuye frowned slightly and looked at Jiang Tianai.


    At that moment, Qian Feng''s voice suddenly rang out. "Fang Chen, let his matter go on my behalf. Come up and have a drink."


    "That''s the second prince."


    "So he''s here too."


    Everyone finally noticed the second prince. They were secretly shocked.


    Fang Chen smiled and said, "Second Prince, I''ve already had many drinks today and I''m a bit tipsy. I''ll pass up on the drinks."


    Qian Feng''s expression darkened. Fang Chen''s refusal toe upstairs was tantamount to rejecting his invitation!


    Qian Jiuye smiled when he saw this and walked in Fang Chen''s direction. Fang Jue and the others quickly followed.


    "I say, Second Brother, as princes, we can''t join forces with the Jue Family to bully a little girl, right?" said Qian Jiuye, chuckling as he walked.


    "This is..."


    "The ninth prince?!"


    Everyone was startled.


    This situation was bing more and moreplicated by the second!


    <em>Why the hell is he here too?!</em>


    Qian Feng''s expression turned serious.


    Qian Jiuye had already arrived in front of Fang Chen and his group by now. He greeted them and then looked at Jiang Tianai with a smile. "Little girl, what''s your name?"


    "Jiang Tianai," replied Jiang Tianai softly.


    "Oh, what a good name." Qian Jiuye nodded with a smile, then turned to look at Jue Wudi. "Jue Wudi, don¡¯t embarrass us. We''ll take this girl today."


    The crowd didn''t know what to do with their faces anymore.


    The situation hadpletely changed.


    Fang Chen not only had Fang Xiu on his side, he also had a member of the royal family too, Qian Jiuye.

 Chapter 367: Yes, It’s Your Turn

    <h4>Chapter 367: Yes, It¡¯s Your Turn</h4>


    "Ninth Brother, I advise you not to meddle in this," said Qian Feng coldly, his words carrying a threat.


    Qian Jiuye chuckled. "You can''t persuade me not to, Second Brother."


    Qian Feng''s expression shifted erratically. He snorted coldly as he looked at Jue Wudi, ¡°This matter has nothing to do with us, people of the royal family; this is all Qian Jiuye''s own decision."


    "I understand, Second Prince." Jue Wudi nodded lightly, then looked at Qian Jiuye with a hint of disdain. In his eyes, the status of a prince was no different from a ragged piece of cloth.


    "Ninth Prince, I can''t do that. You''ll have to go to the Jue Family and ask our ancestor yourself," said Jue Wudi.


    "Was your ancestor really the one who made this decision?" Qian Jiuye looked slightly skeptical. Why would a dignified Golden Core Realm ancestor allow someone to bully a little girl? He had only believed half of what the bystanders said before, thinking that this matter might have been caused by some arrogant member of the Jue Family.


    "It seems you still don''t understand the situation, Ninth Prince." Jue Wudi chuckled lightly. "This isn''t something we, the younger generation, can have a say in. I hope you can persuade Fang Chen to let it go so we can avoid shedding blood today, Ninth Prince."


    Qian Jiuye was taken aback. He couldn''t help but look at Fang Jue and Fang Yun. <i>Something doesn''t seem right here....</i>


    "Ninth Prince, you should stay out of this matter," said Fang Jue softly.


    "Wouldn''t that be inappropriate? I''ve already spoken up. It seems like I¡¯ll embarrass myself if I don¡¯t follow through," muttered Qian Jiuye.


    "You can¡¯t survive on face, Ninth Prine. Since Fang Chen and Fang Xiu want to help her, the Fang family is already involved. I''ll help you out," Fang Jue said with a faint smile. He looked at Jue Wudi and dered loudly, "I, Fang Jue, from the third branch of the Fang Family, will also be intervening in this matter."


    When Qian Jiuye heard this, he was more than happy to take a few steps back and blend in with the crowd


    ncing at Fang Chen, Fang Yun said, "I didn''t expect you to be so warm-hearted."


    She squatted down in front of Jiang Tianai and whispered, "Little sister, what did your family do to offend the Jue Family? Why are they treating you like this? Tell your sister here."


    Jiang Tianai''s lips moved slightly, but she didn''t make a sound.


    ''Is she mute?'' thought Fang Yun as she nced at Fang Chen ''A blind and a mute...."


    "It seems that the third and fourth branches are really set on shing with the Jue Family today."


    "You seem to have forgotten one thing; the people from the fourth and third branches aren''t enough to fight against Jue Wudi."


    "That''s hard to say. You weren''t here to witness Fang Chen''s skills earlier. That incredible control over the five elements.... To be honest, in all of my years of cultivation, it''s the first time we''ve seen something like that."


    "Even people in the Foundation Building Realm might not be able to match Fang Chen''s control over the metal element. Today was really eye-opening, we got to see the real power of the metal element. I heard it was powerful, but it was all hearsay. I never really saw it for myself. We''ll have to spend some time practicing the metal element from now on."


    The crowd murmured among themselves.


    Jue Wudi''s gaze was indifferent. He nced at Fang Jue, then at Fang Xiu, and finally looked at Fang Chen. He chuckled and said, "I''ll give you three a choice. As long as the three of you can take five moves from me without going down, you can take this girl away. If the ancestor mes anyone, I''ll take responsibility."


    He paused for a moment then added, "Otherwise, I hope you can hand her over and stop making things difficult for me."


    The crowd was surprised. The three of them teaming up to withstand five moves?


    Fang Jue suddenly spoke up. "Who said we need to team up? I''ll be the one to take your first move."


    Fang Yun''s expression was serious. "Be careful, Elder Brother."


    Jue Wudi was this generation''s prodigy. Even taking one of his moves was extremely dangerous!


    Fang Jue smiled. "Don''t worry, I can handle one move. It should be alright even if I can''t."


    Fang Yun immediately understood what he meant, and so did the others around.


    "That''s fine. After Fang Jue takes one of your moves, I''ll take one too." Fang Xiu smiled. Pausing for a moment, he looked at Fang Chen. "You''ll have to handle thest three moves. We won''t be able to help."


    Before Fang Chen could speak, Jue Wudi nodded lightly and said, "That''s fine. Three moves are nothing."


    With that said, his gaze fell on Fang Jue.


    Fang Jue''s expression became unusually serious.


    The people around them retreated one after another, afraid of being affected by the battle between the two.


    The figures of the Grand Qian Guards had appeared around, but they didn''t enter. Instead, they stood nearby, quietly watching.


    This was an unwritten rule in the Imperial Capital.


    The friction between the two major families, coupled with the presence of the second prince and the ninth prince, made it unnecessary for the Grand Qian Guards to seek trouble for themselves.


    "I''m going to make my move," said Jue Wudi lightly.


    Fang Jue began to circte his spiritual energy and formed a barrier around him. At the same time, a round ball appeared in his palm.


    The next moment, a golden figure appeared in mid-air. It was wielding a sword in each hand. The golden figure smashed down the swords fiercely!


    "Metal elemental energy!¡±


    "Jue Wudi''s control over the metal element isn''t bad at all!"


    The onlookers were shocked.


    <i>Pfft!</i>


    The moment the swords came into contact with the barrier, it was cut through like tofu.


    Fang Yun reflexively let out a cry of surprise.


    However, the next second, the round ball in Fang Jue''s hand suddenly burst into a bright golden light. Giant golden swords appeared out of nowhere, protecting him.


    "Isn''t that the Giant Sword Shield? That''s a top-notch defensive treasure among low-grade, yellow-rank treasures!"


    "This treasure is not cheap. It was selling for 120 spirit stones thest time I saw it at the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion. It is much more expensive than your average yellow rank treasures."


    The crowd was amazed.


    The defense of the Giant Sword Shield was incredibly strong, at least several times stronger than simr treasures of the same grade!


    A faint sneer shed in Jue Wudi''s eyes. "The Giant Sword Shield?"


    The giant golden figure''s swords continued onwards, crushing the giant golden swords surrounding Fang Jue with unstoppable force.


    Fang Jue immediately spewed out a mouthful of blood. He kneeled down, looking weak and weary.


    It was clear that he had suffered a serious internal injury.


    Neither his spiritual energy barrier nor the Giant Sword Shield had been able to withstand a single strike.


    Everyone felt nervous and jittery while watching the battle.


    Fang Jue smiled bitterly and said, "It''s your turn, Fang Xiu."


    With that, he sat down where he was and began to recuperate.


    Fang Xiu nodded lightly and took a few slow steps forward, looking at Jue Wudi.


    The fourth branch''s disciples were on tenterhooks.


    A green light shed, and a flying sword shot out with sharp momentum, heading straight for Jue Wudi.


    Fang Xiu didn''t choose to defend; he chose to attack!


    Jue Wudi faintly smiled. He extended his hand forward and made a grabbing motion at the flying sword. A golden arm materialized and effortlessly seized the iing sword.


    Then...


    <i>Crack...</i>


    The flying sword was shattered to bits, its fragment nging to the street.


    Fang Xiu staggered. Blood oozed from the corner of his mouth.


    His spiritual weapon had beenpletely shattered.


    As silence fell, the disciples of the fourth branch revealed painful looks. Their chief disciple had lost so easily.


    Neither Fang Jue nor Fang Xiu were qualified to withstand a single move from Jue Wudi....


    Seeing the consecutive defeats of the two outstanding talents from the Fang Family, some of the Jue Family disciples present couldn''t help butugh to themselves.


    Now, only Fang Chen was left. He had to face three moves alone to win!


    Jiang Tianai was very nervous, and she subconsciously tightened her grip on Fang Chen''s hand.


    When Fang Chen saw how nervous she was, he smiled, lowered his head, and whispered, "It''s okay."


    Jiang Tianai settled down a little with his reassurance.


    Jue Wudi''s voice sounded. "It''s your turn, Fang Chen."


    Fang Chen nodded, a talisman burning to ashes in his hand.


    "Yes, it''s my turn."


    He didn''t have to reveal that he was a sword cultivator to deal with an opponent of this level.

 Chapter 368 Played!

    <h4>Chapter 368 yed!</h4>


    The consecutive defeats of Fang Jue and Fang Xiu indirectly confirmed the rumors that had been spreading in recent years.


    The Fang Family was on a downward spiral!


    Although they had Fang Lingxing to alleviate the situation, the Jue family had two or three young talents at the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm!


    Even the royal family had three or four of them!


    Compared to them, the only talent the Fang family had was Fang Lingxing!


    Yes, there was also Fang Chen, who came all the way from the outside world to the capital of Grand Qian to acknowledge his ancestry. However, he was still merely a branch disciple at the end of the day.


    "The mighty Fang Family... has to rely on a branch member to hold the fort."


    "If this continues for a few more years, when the Fang Family''s Golden Core Realm Old Ancestor passes away, their position as one of the three major families of the Grand Qian Empire will definitely be in jeopardy."


    "<i>Hehe.</i> There were already signs of this. The other five major families in the inner city are now rubbing their hands in wait, preparing to take over from the Fang Family."


    People whispered to each other.


    When Fang Xiu and the others heard thesements, their faces turned unpleasant; however, they knew they couldn''t refute them.


    Fang Xiu looked at Fang Chen. <i>I really hope you can withstand these three moves so we can shut these people up for good.</i>


    Jue Wudi''s voice sounded faintly.


    "The first move."


    Suddenly, two golden-armored warriors appeared in the void, each wielding long swords in their hands. There was a total of four swords, and they all came shing down at the same time.


    "<i>Gasp!</i>"


    "Jue Wudi''s control over the Five Elements Technique isn''t any worse than Fang Chen''s!"


    "He wants to defeat Fang Chen at what''s he best at!"


    Suddenly and out of nowhere, Jue Tiangang felt his scalp tingle with a sense of disaster. He sprung to his feet only to see swords crashing down on him.


    "What''s going on?!"


    Filled with shock and anger, he roared and once again disyed his body-refining technique, causing his body to swell.


    At the same time, a spiritual energy shield radiating a golden aura appeared around him.


    <i>Boom!</i>


    The spiritual power shield shattered instantly, and Jue Tiangang''s shoulder was ruthlessly cleaved apart. Blood sttered everywhere as a huge arm fell to the ground.


    Everyone was stunned.


    <i>Why?!</i>


    <i>Why did Jue Wudi suddenly attack Jue Tiangang?!</i>


    <i>Has he gone mad?!</i>


    Upstairs in the Spring Dawn Tower, Qian Feng and the others were shocked. They stared at Jue Wudi in confusion.


    "Brother Jue?!" eximed Fang Lingxing hurriedly. "What are you doing?"


    "I just severed one of his arms, there''s no need to worry. There are still two moves to go," said Jue Wudi softly.


    As he spoke, two golden-armored warriors attacked Jue Tiangang again.


    "Jue Wudi, what are you doing?!" roared Jue Tiangang in anger.


    The crowd was confused, and they began to look at each other with shock in their eyes. What the hell was going on here?


    The fourth branch members were confused, and they turned to their chief disciple. "Senior Brother Fang Xiu, what''s happening here?"


    Fang Xiu shook his head solemnly. He also had no idea what was happening. Why would Jue Wudi turn against Jue Tiangang like this?


    Suddenly, Fang Xiu looked toward Fang Chen, his eyes shing with uncertainty.


    Did Fang Chen have something to do with this?


    Fang Xiu smiled self-deprecatingly. "I''m overthinking it. Fang Chen definitely can''t influence Jue Wudi''s thoughts. There must be hidden reasons behind this.


    The crowd already began to specte, whispering to each other.


    "Could Jue Wudi be displeased with how the Jue Family treated the little girl?¡±


    "Yes, as one of the three pirs of the Grand Qian Empire, the Jue Family is so powerful. Yet they stooped so low, treating a little girl like this. What they did was definitely an invitation for criticism."


    When Jue Tiangang saw that Jue Wudi was about to make another move, he immediately screamed in anger, "Jue Wudi, have you gone mad? What does this have to do with me? I''m just following the orders of our ancestor! If you''re dissatisfied and want to act the saint, go talk to the ancestor! Don''t take it out on me!"


    Jue Wudi remained silent. The actions of the two golden-armored warriors spoke for him.


    Four swords came crashing down toward Jue Tiangang again. No longer caring about his reputation, he started to control the earth element to sink deep into the earth in order to dodge the iing attack.


    <i>Boom!</i>


    The ground cracked instantly, and Jue Tiangang screamed in agony as he was forcefully sted out of the ground and heavily fell to the side. His other arm had been cut off too. Blood was streaming down his shoulder.


    At that moment, both of Jue Tiangang''s arms had been cut off.


    The crowd was even more shocked now.


    The Jue Family''s Dragon Guards present looked at each other, unsure whether to intervene or stand by. They were both at the Foundation Building Realm, but Jue Wudi was the family''s prodigy, and he had the potential to reach the Golden Core Realm and take over the affairs of the Jue Family.


    "Two moves down. One more to go!"


    Fang Xiu''s expression changed. If Jue Wudi made one more move, he would lose!


    "Jue Wudi, fuck your mother!" Jue Tiangang''s eyes were bloodshot. He began to yell at the Guards around him. "What the hell are you waiting for? Jue Wudi has gone mad! Quickly go back and inform the ancestor!"


    In the teahouse, Jue Feichen''s face darkened as he stared at Fang Chen. "Is it the Illusion Spirit Talisman?"


    He didn''t understand what Jue Wudi was doing, but upon closer inspection, he sensed that something was amiss. This was the power of illusions! Jue Wudi had fallen victim to an illusion!


    Just as Jue Wudi was about to make his third move, Jue Feichen''s figure moved and appeared between him and Jue Tiangang.


    "Ancestor!" eximed Jue Tiangang excitedly.


    The Jue Family¡¯s Dragon Guards saluted respectfully.


    "Ancestor!"


    The crowd''s expressions turned serious.


    "The Jue Family''s Golden Core Realm Ancestor has arrived!"


    Fang Xiu and the others turned somber.


    Jue Wudi was preparing to unleash his third move when he saw Jue Feichen blocking the way to "Fang Chen," causing his brow to furrow.


    He saluted with sped fists, "I pay my respects to you, Ancestor."


    Jue Feichen spoke coldly. "Do you know who the person behind me is?¡±


    Jue Wudi was a bit puzzled, but he still replied, "Fang Chen of the Fang Family?"


    Upon hearing this, everyone suddenly understood what was happening. They all looked at the real Fang Chen with shocked eyes.


    It was an illusion! It had to be an illusion!


    Jue Wudi was unknowingly under the influence of an illusion. He was mistaking Jue Tiangang for Fang Chen!


    Fang Lingxing and the others finally realized why Jue Wudi suddenly attacked Jue Tiangang.


    It was that damned Fang Chen! Somehow, he managed to trap Jue Wudi in an illusion without him noticing!


    "Jue Wudi is a Foundation Building Realm cultivator. What kind of method did Fang Chen use to make a Foundation Building Realm cultivatorpletely oblivious to an illusion!"


    Qian Feng and the others felt a bit apprehensive. Even Jue Wudi couldn''t detect it! What if it was them in his shoes?


    Jue Feichen sneered and casually waved his hand, using his overwhelming power to directly destroy the illusion created by the Illusion Spirit Talisman.


    Jue Wudi suddenly felt a little dizzy. Then, after the momentary dizziness went away, he saw Jue Tiangang lying on the ground, behind Jue Feichen. His arms were severed, and he was ring at him with venomous eyes.


    Jue Wudi''s quivered as the look of disbelief shed in his eyes.


    The crowd was speechless.


    They had really seen everything today....


    The renowned Jue Wudi, hailed as the top talent of the Grand Qian Empire, had been easily yed by a Fang Family member.

 Chapter 369 Did Fang Chen Escape?

    <h4>Chapter 369 Did Fang Chen Escape?</h4>


    Fang Chen felt that it was a little regretful. If Jue Feichen hadn''t intervened, Jue Wudi would have remained immersed in the illusion for quite some time.


    "It seems that Illusion Spirit Talismans like this has no effect on Golden Core Realm cultivators. They can easily see through and destroy them."


    He had considered using Illusion Spirit Talismans to disrupt the mental state of Golden Core Realm cultivators during battles before. Fortunately, Jue Feichen put an end to that idea.


    Jue Wudi''splexion was pale. "Ancestor, was I... under an illusion?"


    Jue Feichen nodded lightly. "Yes, you were under an illusion."


    Jue Wudi swayed from disbelief. Shame shed in his eyes as his face alternated between red and white.


    Fang Lingxing was standing beside him. She didn''t know how tofort him and could only whisper, "Big Brother Jue...."


    Qian Feng and the others wore odd expressions. They tacitly decided not to say anything. At this moment, any input they had was useless. They were mainly waiting to see how Jue Feichen would handle the situation.


    The arrival of the ancestor of the Jue Family indicated that this matter was indeed rted to him and was not an unauthorized decision those juniors of the Jue Family made by themselves.


    Mixed in the crowd, Qian Jiuye secretly felt that he had been lucky not to get himself involved. Otherwise, he would have surely ended up with a headache. However, he was also very curious about why the Golden Core Realm Ancestor of the Jue Family treated an ordinary girl like this. What kind of feud existed between their ancestors to warrant this?


    "So it really was an illusion."


    The crowd felt a chill run down their spine.


    Fang Xiu andpany stared at Fang Chen with shock.


    Fang Yun gasped in shock. "He''s actually proficient in illusions?"


    This type of skill was not only rare in the Grand Qian Empire, but also amongst all fourth-tier empires.


    Jue Feichen turned to look at Fang Chen and lightly said, "Young friend, if I''m not mistaken, you just used the Illusion Spirit Talisman, didn''t you? What is your rtionship with the Heavenly Wind Demon King of the Qinghu Empire?"


    Fang Chen smiled. "I know him."


    "Illusion Spirit Talisman?"


    "No wonder! This is a mid-grade, yellow-rank talisman! It''s not surprising that Jue Wudi fell for it."


    They had thought that this was an illusion deployed by Fang Chen using an illusion technique he practiced, but it turned out to be just a talisman.


    However... a mid-grade, yellow-rank talisman was still very valuable. Even one Illusion Spirit Talisman could cost the same price as a mid-grade, yellow-rank spiritual treasure.


    Jue Feichen smiled. "Young friend, when Wudi sparred with you, he didn''t use external help. You used the Illusion Spirit Talisman, which makes this unfair, right?"


    Fang Chen was taken aback and said, "Regardless if they were treasures or talismans, they''re all things cultivators use to deal with their opponents. How was that unfair?"


    "Treasures are fine, but talismans are different. If I give Wudi a high-grade, yellow-rank talisman, wouldn''t he easily defeat you?" said Jue Feichen.


    Fang Chen shook his head lightly. "Not really. At least he didn''t have a high-grade, yellow-rank talisman when he challenged us three. What would <i>really</i> be unfair is if you hand him one now, Senior."


    "You''re quite sharp-tongued." Jue Feichen chuckled lightly. "Alright, for the sake of fairness, let''s go back and redo those three moves just now," he said. "You''re not allowed to use talismans this time. I won''t gift Jue Wudi a high-grade, yellow-rank talisman either. How about you rely on your own strength this time? If you can withstand Jue Wudi''s three moves, we will keep our promise."


    Jue Feichen''s gaze fell on Jiang Tianai. He saw the intense hatred in her eyes as she stared at him.


    Jue Feichen smiled as if he didn''t care at all.


    Everyone was perplexed. "Redo the three moves?"


    Fang Xiu clenched his teeth and said, "This seems even more unfair, Senior...."


    "You have no say here," replied Jue Feichen, looking at Fang Xiu coldly.


    Everyone was stunned. Why was he treating Fang Chen warmly but was so cold to Fang Xiu?


    "It seems that Fang Chen, like Jue Wudi, has caught the eye of a Gold Core Realm cultivator, so he receives simr treatment."


    "Golden Core Realm cultivators don''t put your average genius in their eyes at all. They probably view them just as they view us."


    Fang Xiu''s flushed with embarrassment. In the end, he could only show a bitter twist and remain silent. The younger generation of the four families were angry, but they didn''t dare to speak out against a Gold Core Realm cultivator.


    Jue Feichen turned his attention back to Fang Chen and smiled. "How about it? I''ve given you a chance. If you can''t ept this, young friend, then this girl will be ours."


    "Alright." Fang Chen nodded lightly. "Let''s go with that then."


    Jue Feichen smiled and stepped aside. "You can start."


    Jue Wudi calmed his thoughts, his eyes returning indifferent again.


    Jue Wudi might''ve seemed calm on the surface, but Fang Lingxing, who was closest to him, could see the raging anger deep in his eyes.


    This anger, however, was forcibly suppressed by Jue Wudi.


    Fang Lingxing''s gaze fell on Fang Chen. Her eyes were filled with chilling intent. <i>You made Big Brother Jue so angry. That''s unforgivable.</i>


    Jue Wudi spoke slowly. "Fang Chen, have you thought it through? I didn''t want to take your life before, but now I''ve changed my mind. If you make a move, this can only end in one way."


    Although Jue Wudi''s voice seemed calm, there was a chilling murderous intent hidden within.


    Fang Xiu''s face darkened. "He''s prepared to kill...."


    Fang Jue, who had just finished adjusting his mental state, heard everything that had been said. He immediately stood up and came to Fang Chen''s side. "Fang Chen, he wants to kill you. Are you confident in this fight?"


    "A fortune teller once told me that I have a tenacious fate. I won''t die so easily." Fang Chen smiled, patting Fang Jue''s shoulder. "You stay at the side to avoid being affected by the aftermath. Take care of yourself."


    Fang Jue nodded lightly and stood next to Fang Yun.


    "A fortune teller told you you have a tenacious fate? Haha..." A cold sneer appeared on Jue Wudi''s face. "I''m afraid that was a fraud."


    Jue Wudi''s aura began to rise, and the surrounding spiritual energy surged. Even those far away felt extremely heavy pressure at that moment.


    Just as Jue Wudi was about to unleash his killing move to wash away his shame in front of everyone, he noticed that Fang Chen had suddenly vanished.


    Yes, Fang Chen was gone!


    There was only Jiang Tianai standing where Fang Chen had been.


    ¡°Where''s Fang Chen?¡±


    "Could he have run away?"


    The crowd was astonished.


    Jue Wudi''s face froze. He scanned the area around him with surprise.


    What kind of method was this? A person of such stature suddenly disappeared right under the nose of a Golden Core Realm expert?


    Fang Lingxing couldn''t help butugh. "Big Brother Jue, he must have been scared off by you."


    Jue Wudi''s face turned unpleasant.


    <i>Could he have really run away?</i>


    Everyone started looking around for Fang Chen''s whereabouts while Fang Xiu and the others exchanged looks.


    The Fang Family members'' faces flushed with shame. "Did Fang Chen actually run away?"


    "He ran away? Haha! This is getting interesting."


    In a tea stall a hundred feet away, Lord Tiger took a sip of tea and suddenly chuckled.


    Only he knew what skill Fang Chen had used at this moment.


    Lord Tiger shook his head while chuckling. "Jue Wudi? When facing this person, you''ll learn that you''re not as unbeatable as you think you are."

 Chapter 370: I’m Right Here

    <h4>Chapter 370: I¡¯m Right Here</h4>


    "Has anyone seen Fang Chen?"


    "Not over here."


    "Neither did I see him."


    "It looks like he really ran away."


    "He has a formidable cultivation butcks the courage to face his challenges head-on. The Fang Family is indeed on the decline."


    "Big Brother Fang Xiu, could Fang Chen have really run away?"


    The disciples of the Fang Family looked very displeased upon hearing these discussions.


    "Something''s not right." Fang Xiu shook his head lightly. "Let''s wait and see."


    In his view, if Fang Chen dared to step up and meddle in the affairs of the Jue Family despite the chances of getting on their bad side then he wouldn''t simply run away for no reason now.


    Fang Yun''s expression turned grim. "Senior Brother, if Fang Chen really fled from battle then our family will be theughingstock of the empire from this day on."


    Fang Jue''s gaze flickered as he scanned around. "Don''t jump to conclusions so quickly."


    "Have you forgotten about the events at the Immortal Origin District? He always surprises people; perhaps this time is no different."


    In the void, seven figures stood side by side.


    The ones in the forefront were Fang Wanli and Princess Shenlong. The other five Golden Core Realm cultivators had slightly weaker auras.


    They were the ancestors of the five major families in the inner city.


    Princess Shenlong was frowning. "Fang Wanli, looks like your disciplecks guts."


    The ancestors of the five major families had peculiar expressions. Some of them had a glint of schadenfreude hidden in their eyes.


    "Lacks guts?" Fang Wanli coldly chuckled. He took a swig from his gourd before wiping his mouth. "If Fang Chencked courage, why would he even step in and meddle in the Jue Family''s affairs?"


    Letting out a loud belch, he continued, "I refuse to believe this kid would flee from a fight. But have you all considered their actions? The Jue Family has gone too far this time. A prestigious top-tier family like theirs resorted to such actions against a young girl. If this gets out, others might think that the Grand Qian Empire is a demonic empire!"


    "Fang Wanli, perhaps we should refrain from interfering in the Jue Family''s affairs, just as our two families have never meddled in your Fang Family''s affairs." Princess Shenlong frowned slightly. "Anyway, they''ve made a bet. If he can''t withstand three moves from Jue Wudi, that girl will be taken by the Jue Family. Let''s just wait and see."


    Just then, the voice of Jue Wudi thundered. "Fang Chen, don''t act like a coward. Come out and face me!"


    Jue Wudi''s gaze was sharp as lightning as he scanned all around. His voice, amplified by spiritual power, was like roaring thunder, spreading in all directions.


    A hand holding a sword suddenly emerged slowly from behind Jue Wudi''s neck. Although the sword seemed ordinary, it carried a chilling sword intent.


    A face appeared from the shadows before whispering softly in Jue Wudi''s ear, "I''m right here."


    Jue Wudi felt a chill run down his spine, and every hair on his body stood on end as a cold sensation surged through his scalp.


    ¡°Don''t move, the sword is already at your neck. If you try to move, I¡¯m afraid my hand might slip and sever your head from your neck.¡±


    "I know you''re a Foundation Building Realm cultivator, but you can''t regrow your head, right?"


    <i>How?! How is he behind me?!</i>


    Jue Wudi''s face turned pale and beads of cold sweat dripped from his forehead. He didn''t dare move. Even a Foundation Building Realm cultivator would be in perilous danger if someone closed in on them, especially if that person was strong enough to defeat Jue Tiangang. He was afraid that any movement would result in his demise, rendering all his years of cultivation and aspirations futile.


    Qian Feng jumped to the side as if shocked by electricity, staring dumbfoundedly at Jue Wudi and Fang Chen. "Oh my god! He scared the hell out of me!"


    Fang Lingxing and the others looked on in shock. Once they understood what was happening, their hearts sank.


    "How did he...? How did he get there?"


    "When did he sneak up here?"


    "There''s no way!"


    Their faces turned pale. They couldn''t understand how Fang Chen had suddenly appeared behind Jue Wudi without anyone noticing.


    "This is impossible..." Fang Lingxing''s face was grim as she stared at Fang Chen.


    The abnormality at Spring Dawn Pavilion was finally noticed by someone, who shouted in astonishment, "That''s Fang Chen!"


    "His sword is actually against Jue Wudi''s neck?!"


    "Oh my God, how did this happen?"


    The crowd had been struck dumb. They couldn''t wrap their heads around what they were seeing, and they couldn''t help but wonder if they had fallen under another illusion.


    Fang Xiu''s expression had turned into one of shock. After a while, he only managed to utter a few words. "This guy... he''s too incredible..."


    <i>He''s truly incredible.</i>


    He never expected that Fang Chen would just run up the Spring Dawn Tower and effortlessly subdue Jue Wudi.


    Now that Fang Chen''s sword was resting at his neck, Jue Wudi had already lost. The challenge of three movies had turned into nothing but a joke now.


    "Didn''t I tell you, Junior Sister? Just look at this," said Fang Jue with amusement.


    Fang Yun was dumbfounded.


    Behind them, Qian Jiuye took in a sharp breath as he stared nkly at Fang Chen. He rubbed his eyes before having another look.


    "My eyes really aren''t ying tricks on me," muttered Qian Jiuye.


    The originally calm smile on Jue Feichen''s face had now frozen. His brows locked as he stared fixedly at Fang Chen.


    Tears rolled in Jiang Zhong''s eyes and slid down his cheeks. "The youngdy has been saved!"


    Even the shameless Jue Family wouldn''t dare to go back on their word in front of so many people.


    In the void...


    "Did I see that right?" Fang Wanli widened his eyes, then looked at Princess Shenlong. "Did you all see that?"


    Princess Shenlong and the Golden Core Realm cultivators from the five major families revealedplicated looks.


    They saw what happened, but they didn¡¯t know how Fang Chen ascended the Spring Dawn Tower! The kid actually had a technique that even they couldn¡¯t see through!


    Fang Wanli suddenly burst intoughter before taking another swig of wine. "<i>Hahaha</i>, I knew this kid wouldn''t give up so easily! He didn''t disappoint me. Well done!"


    He looked at Fang Chen, his gaze covered with a faint drunkenness, but deep within that intoxication, there was a rity that ordinary people couldn''t match.


    <i>Uncle Tingyuan''s descendant... you really didn''t disappoint me. Uncle Tingyuan, if you were still alive, you would definitely be proud of him, wouldn''t you?</i>


    A faint light shed in his eyes but it was quickly reced by his intoxicated look.


    Back at the tower.


    "Do you surrender?" asked Fang Chen softly.


    Jue Wudi clenched his fists tightly, his expression changing constantly.


    Surrender? No, he couldn''t surrender! If he surrendered today, he would never be able to lift his head again in the future!


    There was no way he could admit defeat!


    Jue Wudi screamed silently in his heart.


    Just then, a glint of sword light flickered and stabbed toward Fang Chen.


    "Get lost." Fang Chen flung a p to the side, sending Fang Lingxing and her flying sword flying out of the Spring Dawn Tower and crashing heavily to the street.


    Fang Lingxingy motionless, face down. She was still breathing, but she had most definitely fainted.


    "Fang Lingxing actually tried to make a move...."


    "Fang Chen neutralized her attack and sent her flying with just a p. The gap between them is really too big..."


    The crowd was shocked.


    "Jue Wudi, think it over carefully. If you don''t surrender, you''ll die," said Fang Chen softly.


    The sword began to sink into Jue Wudi''s skin a little, causing droplets of blood to ooze out.

 Chapter 371 Bet

    <h4>Chapter 371 Bet</h4>


    Qian Feng was shocked. He quickly said, "Don''t hurt him, Fang Chen; otherwise, you won''t be leaving Spring Dawn Tower today!"


    Fang Chen looked at Qian Feng and smiled lightly. "Why is he allowed to harm others while I can¡¯t harm him? Who came up with this rule?"


    Qian Feng advised, "No one came up with it, but it''s just that Jue Wudi¡¯s has a special status. What you know is only the tip of the iceberg and not the whole picture. It¡¯s still not toote for you to stop now, otherwise you will bring trouble to the entire Fang Family. Even Grand Qian will have to bear some responsibility!"


    Fang Chen recalled that Li Cang had once said that Jue Wudi might have been taken in as a disciple by a senior from a third-tier empire when he was young. It seemed that many people in the Grand Qian Empire knew about it. However, they probably still didn''t know this opportunity came from the Spirit Blood Sect.


    "As long as he admits defeat, everything will be fine." Fang Chen smiled lightly and looked at Jue Wudi. "So what if your talent is outstanding? What if your opportunities are great? If you die and return to dust, everything will just be empty talk. Are you willing to take the gamble and see if I dare to kill you?"


    Jue Wudi''s expression shifted erratically. He pushed back the sense of humiliation that welled up in his heart and expressionlessly said, "I admit defeat."


    The crowd went crazy.


    "Jue Wudi admits defeat!"


    Fang Chen smiled and put away Little Sword. He then looked at Jue Feian. "Senior, since Jue Wudi has admitted defeat. Can I take her away?"


    Jue Feian remained silent for a long time. Suddenly, heughed and said, "Good. You can take her away. But remember one thing."


    "Please enlighten me." Fang Chen smiled.


    Jue Feian pointed to Jiang Tianai. ¡°She can leave with you, but you must not take her out of the imperial city.¡±


    Fang Chen smiled and said, ¡°Are you going back on your word, Senior?¡±


    "When did I promise to let you take her out of the imperial city?" said Jue Feian lightly. "I never promised you that, so I''m not breaking my word."


    The crowd reacted.


    "Right. it seems that the ancestor of the Jue Family never promised that. He just said Fang Chen can take the girl away."


    Fang Chen fell silent for a moment, then nodded lightly. "So be it."


    With that, he stepped into the void and walked step by step from Spring Dawn Tower to Jiang Tianai, taking her hand and walking toward the Jue Family.


    Fang Xiu and others hurriedly followed, and the surrounding onlookers made their way as they left.


    At Spring Dawn Tower, Qian Feng and the others were consoling Jue Wudi, saying that Fang Chen''s methods were too despicable and that he didn''t dare to confront him directly.


    Jue Wudi remained silent all along. Suddenly, he looked at Fang Chen''s back and said, "Fang Chen, at the start of the trade conference, I want to have another battle with you. If you win this battle, within a hundred years, I, Jue Wudi, will never set foot in Grand Qian again! If you lose, this girl will be returned to our family, and you must leave Grand Qian. You are not allowed to appear here for a hundred years!"


    The crowd was shocked. The stakes were huge on that bet. Regardless of who one, one side needed to leave the imperial capital for one hundred years!


    "You don''t have to agree to his bet, Fang Chen," whispered Fang Jue.


    Fang Xiu nodded. "This bet is unreasonable. Not setting foot in Grand Qian for a hundred years? How is that different from being exiled?"


    The Fang family members spoke up one after another, afraid that Fang Chen would agree.


    Fang Chen suddenly chuckled. "What if Jue Wudi loses and can''t set foot into the Imperial City of Grand Qian for a hundred years? Don¡¯t you think that would be interesting?"


    The crowd was taken aback.


    <i>Interesting?</i>


    The crowd''s expressions turned odd. Fang Chen did win today, but it couldn''t be said to be a legitimate victory.


    Even if they didn''t know how Fang Chen had sneaked up on Jue Wudi like that, the Jue Family would have ways up its sleeve to deal with this move from now on.


    Fang Chen won''t be able to use the same trick twice to beat Jue Wudi. And since Fang Chen couldn''t fight Jue Wudi head-on, then his chances of winning were... essentially zero.


    In their view, if Fang Chen had what it takes to beat Jue Wudi in a head-on fight, why would he have resorted to using an Illusion Talisman the first thing in their first fight?


    Fang Chen chuckled and turned to look at Jue Wudi. "The bet you set is unfair. If I lose, I have to return the girl to you and leave the city? Let''s add another condition."


    Jue Wudi tried not to show his excitement. "Say it!" he said. He was afraid that Fang Chen wouldn''t ept.


    "If you lose, Xia Ji will p you ten times," said Fang Chen with a smile.


    The crowd was surprised, and they exchanged strange looks. They knew that Xia Ji was Master Chan Yuan''s disciple. The recent uproar was rted to him.


    "Looks like the rumors are true. Fang Chen has a good rtionship with Xia Ji."


    "It''s strange. Could it be that they knew each other beforeing to Grand Qian?"


    The crowd was secretly curious.


    Fang Jue and Fang Xiu showed strange expressions.


    This bet was likely to only anger the Jue Family and Jue Wudi, which would add many uncontroble variables to their fight.


    And as expected, a sh of anger appeared in Jue Wudi''s eyes, but he tried hard to calm himself down and said calmly, "So be it."


    Before long, Fang Chen left the streets with the others.


    Jue Tiangang limped over to Jue Feian and whispered, "Ancestor, my two arms.... Jue Wudi must give me an exnation."


    "Wudi had been under an illusion and it wasn''t intentional. As for the exnation, go to the warehouse and get a high-grade, yellow-rank Tiger Origin Pill. It has great benefits for your body refining technique. With your foundation, regrowing your two arms shouldn''t be difficult," said Jue Feian lightly.


    <i>Tiger Origin Pill!?</i>


    Jue Tian Gang was pleasantly surprised and nodded repeatedly. "Thank you, Elder."


    That was a pill that normally only the two ancestors were qualified to take. Jue Family members could only receive a Tiger Origin Pill if they had achieved great merits.


    The pill not only had great benefits for the physical body but also greatly helped cultivation!


    In the void.


    "Let''s disperse. Everyone has left," said Princess Shenlong.


    Fang Wanli frowned. "Disperse? Shouldn''t we go to Jue Feian and ask why he treated a little girl like that?"


    "Well... we still have other matters to attend to. Daoist Fang, we will take our leave first...."


    The Golden Core Realm experts from the five major ns hurriedly bid their farewell.


    After they left, Princess Shenlong nced at Fang Wanli and said lightly, "Even if you ask him, Jue Feian may not necessarily tell you. I advise you not to meddle in this matter."


    With that, Princess Shenlong transformed into a rainbow light and disappeared into the sky.


    "I just happen to want to meddle in this matter," muttered Fang Wanli. "But I have to wait until I reach the mid-stage of the Golden Core Realm. At that time, it should be about right."


    At the teahouse.


    Jue Feian slowly approached Jiang Zhong and smiled lightly, "You¡¯re very happy that your youngdy has been taken away?"


    A smile appeared on Jiang Zhong''s face. "Happy? Why wouldn''t I be happy? Your Jue Family indeed doesn¡¯t have much inheritance. The genius you nurtured got yed around like that. If it weren''t for the virtue your ancestors umted during the days they were our ves, I don''t think you¡ªas you are now¡ªwould have had the opportunity to cultivate immortality."


    Jue Feian didn''t get angry. Their ancestors had really been the Jiang Family''s ves in the past, but it was too far in the past for him to be angry about it.


    "Your youngdy cannot leave the imperial capital. After the trade conference ends, we will take her back," said Jue Feian with a light smile. "When that timees, what awaits her will be an even more tragic end."


    Jiang Zhong''s pupils were constricted. He coldly snorted and didn''t say anything. <i>The youngdy should be in safe hands with Sect Leader Fang for now.</i>

 Chapter 372: He Can Really See Me!

    <h4>Chapter 372: He Can Really See Me!</h4>


    There were several Fang Family members crouched beside Fang Lingxing, checking on her condition.


    Fang Mosheng hurried over. His expression darkened when he saw Fang Lingxing lying on the ground in an unknown state.


    "Who injured my daughter!?"


    The Fang Family members quickly recounted the situation.


    Fang Mosheng''s expression shifted erratically.


    "How did he beat Jue Wudi so miserably? He even defeated Jue Tiangang?"


    Fang Mosheng tried to suppress his shock, but hatred surged through him when he saw Fang Lingxing''s swollen cheek.


    "We are all members of the same family, yet he has no sense of kinship whatsoever toward Lingxing. He''s a damn bastard!"


    "Elder, what should we do now?"


    "Let''s go back first."


    Fang Mosheng snorted coldly and personally led Fang Lingxing toward the Fang Family manor.


    "The ancestor is keeping a close watch on Fang Chen, so I can''t touch him. But the others from the third and fourth branches, including Fang Xiu...." Fang Mosheng''s eyes turned malignant. "I want to see what good cane out of siding with Fang Chen!"


    He was a main branch Foundation Building Realm cultivator, and he was rted by blood to Fang Kun, the family Head, so he held a high position within the family. Even the resources that the branch members were allocated each month had to be approved by him before distribution.


    He had his ways to deal with Fang Hui and the others!


    "These can count as me collecting minor interest. If Fang Chen loses to Jue Wudi when the trade conference rolls around, I''ll arrange for someone to ambush him on the road and teach him a lesson!


    "And you, Jue Wudi! My daughter was so devoted to you, yet you didn''t even spare her a nce before leaving. Damn you!"


    Fang Mosheng was on the verge of going mad. Why did his daughter have to suffer so much? If possible, he would rather suffer himself!


    ***


    "Let''s go, there''s nothing interesting to see here any more," said Tiger Lord, putting down his teacup. He stood up and leisurely left with his entourage.


    Lord Tiger returned to his mansion. Just as he was about to take a seat, a cold voice suddenly sounded from beside him.


    "Big Brother, why does he know the Shadow Buddha Technique?"


    Tiger Lord felt as if he had been struck by lightning. He shivered and covered his chest while saying, "Didn''t I tell you not to scare me like that, Fourth Brother!"


    There was now a middle-aged man standing beside Lord Tiger. He had a simple appearance and was dressed like an ordinarymoner. There weren''t any signs of cultivation on him. Even the straw sandals he wore were smeared yellow with dirt.


    The middle-aged man was staring silently at Lord Tiger.


    "Forget it..." Tiger Lord sighed heavily. "To tell you the truth, he''s the boss."


    The middle-aged man was surprised. "He''s the boss?"


    "By the way, why haven''t you left already?" asked Tiger Lord, frowning. "You didn''t kill Fang Lingxing, so the mission has failed. You should have left the imperial capital a long time ago."


    "It''s because the mission failed that I want to see if there''s a chance to kill her again," said the middle-aged man. "But unfortunately, she was always either at Fang Family manor or with Jue Wudi during this period, so I didn¡¯t have many opportunities."


    After a pause, he continued, "Big Brother, don''t change the subject. Why does that Fang family member know the Shadow Buddha Technique?"


    "I told you before, that guy is extremely extraordinary." Tiger Lord''s face showed a serious expression. "He saw right through you the moment you arrived at the imperial capital. He came right to me after you left that day, asking about your techniques."


    ¡°How is that possible?!¡±


    There was a look of disbelief on the man''s face as he trembled. ¡°How could he have sensed me? The Shadow Buddha Technique is extremely elusive, even Nascent Soul Realm cultivators would find it hard to sense me, let alone him!¡±


    ¡°Those were exactly my thoughts, but the fact remains that he did. Not only did he see right through you, but he also offered to buy the Shadow Buddha Technique from me. You know how tough it is to do business nowadays, every bit of profit counts.


    "For so many years, only you have managed to master this technique in the Heavenly Doom Hall. The others consider it trash because they don''t understand its profoundness. So, thinking he won''t be able to learn it, I sold it to him."


    Tiger Lord chuckled. ¡°I sold it for a thousand spirit stones!¡±


    The middle-aged man''s expression was serious. ¡°What happenedter? How long has it been since then? How could he have possibly...?"


    ¡°What happenedter, you ask? He nced at it and grasped it in one sitting. That''s why I say this person is extremely extraordinary. If Jue Wudi wants to confront him, then he''s courting death!"


    Tiger Lord chuckled. ¡°Moreover, he has taken care of me. I managed to earn a number of spirit stones I normally wouldn''t be able to make in even several years¡ªno, decades, even!"


    No one responded.


    Tiger Lord looked around. There was no sign of his fourth brother.


    Lord Tiger turned suspicious. ¡°Wait a minute.... Could this guy be nning to...?"


    He knew his brother very well; he wasn''t the one to admit defeat. Now that he learned that someone had mastered the Shadow Buddha Technique with just a nce and was able to see him, it''s highly likely he''d go seeking trouble!


    <i>Damn it, that''s the Fang Family we''re talking about. Even if you know the Shadow Buddha Technique, if you reveal your hand, Fang Tingjian will strike, and you won''t be able to escape even if you grew a pair of wings, you fool!</i> Tiger Lord cursed inwardly.


    But there was nothing he could do now except wait for news. Luckily, his fourth brother was reliable; he believed that even if caught, he wouldn''t betray him.


    "Fourth Brother, oh, Fourth Brother. If you''re met with misfortune on this day, then every year on this day, I''ll burn a low-grade spirit stone for you," muttered Tiger Lord.


    ***


    "You''ll stay here for now," said Fang Chen, leading Jiang Tianai into a room. It was only a dozen steps away from his own room.


    Jiang Tian''ai hesitated for a moment and then, in a low voice, asked, "Sect Leader Fang, the Jue Family wants the Heavenly Supreme Pill Technique that my family has left behind. Will... will they release Uncle Zhong if I give them the technique?"


    "They will immediately kill Jiang Zhong, then kill you, and then me as well," said Fang Chen. "You can''t hand over the technique even if it costs you your life, understand?"


    Jiang Tianai''s eyes widened. She nodded quickly. Jiang Zhong had told her the same thing before. Now that she had Fang Chen''s confirmation, she knew what to do.


    "L-Lord..." Li Cang suddenly rushed in, panting heavily. "I just went to the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion, and I don''t know if you..."


    "It''s okay. If I''m not around in the future, this girl will take care of things for you. She''ll be staying here from now on,"


    Li Cang immediately nodded. "I will take good care of the youngdy."


    "It''s not very convenient for a man like you, so go and get a woman toe help out," said Fang Chen.


    "Understood!" Li Cang quickly responded and turned to leave. After he was gone, Fang Chen asked Jiang Tianai to rest in the room first, then sat quietly on a stone bench in the courtyard.


    His divine soul stood in the void, looking at the shadow in the corner of the wall.


    After a while, Fang Chen spoke softly. "This is the Fang Family¡¯s territory. Aren''t you scared that the ancestor wille out and smash you to pieces now that you''ve snuck in?"


    In the shadow of the wall corner, a figure trembled as he looked at Fang Chen in disbelief.


    "He... he can really see me!"

 Chapter 373: Confrontation with a Martial Emperor

    <h4>Chapter 373: Confrontation with a Martial Emperor</h4>


    This was the first time Nong Guiquan had ever lost confidence in the Shadow Buddha Technique. Ever since he mastered this technique, he had been able to easily escape the pursuit of Golden Core Realm cultivators after his assassinations. He was both elusive and mysterious, and no one could catch him. But this time, he felt fear and panic, along with a trace of unwillingness.


    "You''re trembling," said Fang Chen. "Are you afraid?"


    These words made Nong Guiquan certain that Fang Chen could definitely see him. He didn''t dare to stay here for long, so he sped his fists and slipped away from the shadow.


    Fang Chen chuckled and shook his head.


    At that moment, Li Cang came over, leading a middle-aged woman. He respectfully said, "Young Master, she''s a fourth-stage Martial Emperor who''s from the third branch, just like us. She has been following Madam all along. Would it be alright for her to take care of the youngdy?"


    The middle-aged woman was graceful and charming. Upon seeing Fang Chen, she immediately bowed respectfully. "I am Chang Fen, Sir. Greetings."


    Fang Chen nced at Li Cang. "You brought over someone from the Madam''s side. Is she okay with this?"


    Chang Fen respectfully said, "Please rest assured, Young Master. The Madam is aware of your request for a woman to take care of the youngdy and specially arranged for me toe."


    Li Cang forced a bitter smile on his face. He didn''t intend for this to happen. He was supposed to pick someone from the Internal Affairs Hall, but after Madam Fang Ao caught wind of what he was after, she quickly sent Chang Fen to him. With his status, what qualifications did he have to refuse her?


    "Very well." Fang Chen nodded lightly. "From now on, taking care of thatss will be your responsibility."


    Chang Fen''s eyes lit up with excitement. "Thank you, Young Master. I will do my best!"


    A piece of news had spread through the Fang Family not too long ago, causing the young masters and youngdies of the family to feel excitement and thrill toward not only Fang Chen but also Li Cang, who followed Fang Chen.


    Chang Fen was no exception.


    Who would have thought that she would be able to follow Fang Chen all of a sudden too? Every martial artist in the Fang Family wished to step onto the cultivation path one way or the other. It was extremely difficult to obtain that opportunity, but if they had the chance to follow a young master with limitless prospects like Fang Chen, their chances would skyrocket!


    Fang Chen suddenly said, "You''re a fourth-level Martial Emperor in the Heaven Profound Stage?"


    Chang Fen nodded. "Yes."


    "A long time ago, I was also interested in martial arts," said Fang Chen, chuckling. He stood up and looked at Chang Fen.


    Li Cang was stunned.


    Chang Fen looked surprised at first, but she quickly bowed with respect and said, "Please forgive me, Young Master. What qualifications do I have to teach you? How would I dare spar with you?"


    "In the Heaven Profound Stage, starting from the Fatal Qi, martial arts can influence spiritual energy. Following that, Profound Qi, Royal Qi, and Imperial Qi, each level is stronger than the previous one." Fang Chen smiled. "To be honest, I have never fought against a Martial Emperor. If you demonstrate your skills, I''ll be able to learn more about Martial Emperors, which would be helpful when I encounter ones in the future."


    Chang Fen looked at Li Cang, then back at Fang Chen. Her eyes were flickering with hesitation.


    In the end, she nodded lightly. "In that case, I will try to demonstrate the methods of a Martial Emperor. Please don''t take offense."


    "Juste at me." Fang Chen nodded. "Don''t hold back, give it your all. If you can injure me, I''ll reward you with a hundred low-grade spirit stones."


    Chang Fen gasped in shock, her eyes widening.


    <i>One hundred low-grade spirit stones!?</i>


    That was an unimaginable sum of money for any martial artist. With those one hundred low-grade spirit stones, she could further improve her martial cultivation and reach the grandpletion level of the Martial Emperor Stage!


    "I apologize for any offense," eximed Chang Fen. In the next moment, her figure blurred into a phantom, swiftly closing in on Fang Chen with lightning speed.


    Judging by her speed, even a cultivator enhanced by Divine Movement Talismans might not be as fast as her. Chang Fen''s blood and qi were rich and powerful, far surpassing ordinary cultivators in the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm.


    When she appeared in front of Fang Chen, a surge of Imperial Qi erupted from her body, and her fist smashed toward Fang Chen''s chest. Even before her fist reached him, the earth beneath them had begun to tremble and crack in all directions.


    Fang Chen could feel that her punch was able to affect the surrounding spiritual energy, turning it into giant mountains that pressed down on him from all directions.


    Li Cang paled. "Chang Fen, you''re being reckless!"


    Chang Fen was really using all her strength in that strike. If she truly injured Fang Chen, the matter wouldn''t be so easily resolved!


    <i>This maniption of spiritual energy is done passively. She doesn''t truly control it; otherwise, it would be simr to the Five Element Controlling Technique. </i>


    With that in mind, Fang lifted his hand and met Chang Fen''s punch with one of his own.


    <i>Bang!</i>


    Chang Fen felt a terrifying force travel through her from Fang Chen''s fist. It was as if a huge wave in a stormy sea had shed against her. The color drained from her face, and she staggered back seven or eight steps before she could stabilize herself.


    Fang Chen remained motionless. He didn''t budge from his ce. Only, the blue bricks around him had cracked.


    "How is this possible!?" Chang Fen couldn''t believe it.


    Fang Chen didn''t use spiritual energy and relied solely on his physical body to receive her punch?


    Not only that, but in this exchange, she ended up on the losing side. Her arm was aching, and she could feel that it was broken. As a Martial Emperor, she constantly refined her physical body with Imperial Qi, strengthening her organs, bones, and overall constitution significantly.


    That was the reason why the blood qi of martial artists like them far surpassed ordinary cultivators who were at the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm. In terms of lifespan, martial artists at that level were not necessarily inferior to cultivators of the same level! But now, there was a cultivator with a terrifying physical body capable of facing a Martial Emperor head-on!


    Fang Chen chuckled. "Come again."


    Without much thought, Chang Fen struck out with a palm imprint. "Heaven Shaking Imprint!"


    The surrounding spiritual energy trembled even more violently, and Li Cang saw a terrifying giant hand imprint descend from the void, smashing toward Fang Chen.


    Even a spiritual energy barrier would find it difficult to block this strike, much less a body made of flesh and blood!


    Fang Chen raised his hand once again. Just then, a water dragon emerged and rushed toward the Heaven Shaking Imprint.


    Boom!


    The two attacks canceled each other out.


    Fang Chen used less than ten percent of his power in that move. His water dragon alone could match a full-force strike from an ordinary cultivator at the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm. This indirectly confirmed that martial artists like Chang Fen who were at the level of a Martial Emperor, indeed possessed attack powerparable to cultivators at the 12th stage of Qi Refining Realm.


    However, martial artists couldn''t cultivate techniques. In a life-and-death battle with cultivators, unless a martial artist was able to close the gap between them and the cultivator and enter closebat, they would slowly be worn down by various mysterious methods.


    The water dragon transformed into a shower of rain and poured down. Chang Fen''s figure suddenly shot out from the rain and appeared in front of Fang Chen.


    <i>Bang! Bang! Bang!</i>


    Her fists were like shes of lightning as she attempted to break through at close range. However, Fang Chen countered each of her punches effortlessly.


    Li Cang was dumbfounded. He could barely keep up. The speed of their exchanges was too fast even for a Martial King like him to see.


    They had exchanged hundreds of moves in just a few breaths, and by now, Chang Fen''s aura clearly began to decline.


    On the contrary, Fang Chen remained calm andposed as he stood in his original spot¡ªhe hadn''t moved a single step since the start of the fight!


    Suddenly, Chang Fen took a few quick steps back and respectfully bowed. "Young master, I have lost."

 Chapter 374: Flawless

    <h4>Chapter 374: wless</h4>


    Li Cang felt incredibly satisfied. He never expected that there would be a cultivator capable of fighting a Martial Emperor with just their physical body and making them admit defeat so easily.


    Even though cultivators also had body-refining techniques, such techniques still required the activation of spiritual energy. However, he could clearly sense that other than using his spiritual energy to condense the water dragon, Fang Chen did not activate his spiritual energy at all.


    Fang Chen chuckled. "With your skills, if you were to go on a killing spree, ordinary cultivators at the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm wouldn''t be able to defend against you unless they possess defensive treasures."


    Curiosity flickered in Chang Fen''s eyes. "Young master, have you practiced martial arts before?"


    Fang Chen nodded lightly.


    Chang Fen and Li Cang exchanged a look and saw the shock and joy deep in each other''s eyes. What they were most afraid of was mingling with cultivators who looked down on martial arts. Because, in the eyes of these cultivators, martial artists were no different from mortals. However, now that Fang Chen said that he had practiced martial arts before, they knew he''d be able to understand how difficult their path was and wouldn''t look down on them.


    Fang Chen chuckled and said, "I once practiced to the Qi Core Stage."


    "I''m afraid you would''ve been able to be a Martial Emperor before you reached adulthood with your talent if you had continued practicing," remarked Chang Fen respectfully.


    Fang Chen lightly shook his head. "I wouldn''t have been able to."


    Li Cang and Chang Fen were stunned.


    Fang Chen exined, "Someone shattered my qi sea when I was at the Qi Core Stage, so my path of martial arts was cut off since that day."


    Both Chang Fen and Li Cang sucked in a breath of cold air, looking at Fang Chen in disbelief.


    It was hard to imagine that, as a descendant of the Fang Family, Fang Chen had once had his qi sea destroyed!


    At the entrance of the courtyard, Fang Xiu, Fang Jue, Fang Yun, as well as some children from the third and fourth branches, all stopped in their tracks, their eyes filled with shock.


    "To have his qi sea destroyed and his eyes blinded when he was wandering outside, he must have experienced many things that we didn¡¯t. Things that we can''t even imagine..." murmured Fang Jue.


    "Despite all that, he was able to stand at the peak of the Grand Qian younger generation. Even Jue Wudi lost to him more than once. It''s hard to imagine what kind of talent and perseverance he must have," whispered Fang Xiu.


    Fang Yun suddenlymented, "If only he could regain his sight.... Wouldn''t he be even stronger? Perhaps he would have already advanced to the Foundation Building Realm by now."


    Everyone was taken aback slightly, and it was only after Fang Yun''s reminder that they came back to their senses. It''s much more difficult for a person with disabilities to cultivate. After all, cultivation emphasized being wless¡ªhaving no ws or defects. If the physical body is wed, circting spiritual energy through the veins would be extremely difficult, which would cause deficiencies in certain areas. This would inevitably slow down a person''s cultivation.


    Fang Chen was someone with a disability, yet he was still much stronger than those proud children who lived in the Fang Manor all their lives.


    "No wonder Grandfather told me that cultivators must go through trials, and must have an honest heart; a wless heart is far stronger than a wless body," mumbled Fang Xiu.


    Most people were born wless when it came to their bodies. But when it came to mentality, not many reached a state where it could be called "wless"¡ªone could hardly find one whose mentality had reached such a realm amongst even millions of people.


    Li Cang said through gritted teeth, "Young master, the one who was so bold as to destroy your qi sea, are they still alive?


    Change Fen eyes were gleaming with killing intent too. "Young master, if that person is still alive, please let me go and I¡¯ll return with his head."


    Fang Chen chuckled. "He should still be alive. But the enmity between us is not that simple. He spared my life once, and now I am not willing to kill him either. It could be said that neither of us is at fault."


    <i>I wonder if Marshall Xiao Lang has found any traces of the Spirit Blood Sect within the Qingsong Empire?</i>


    <i>He is not a cultivator, so he cannot deal with the Spirit Blood Sect like me. But with his temperament, he would choose to endure silently and wait for an opportunity instead of defying them head-on.</i>


    <i>Once my sword body reaches the third rank, I will have to make a trip back before heading to the Central Continent Empire.</i>


    Li Cang and Chang Fen couldn''t help but sigh inwardly at Fang Chen''s attitude. They couldn''tpare to his broad-mindedness. If it were them, if anyone dared to destroy their qi sea, they would''ve definitely treated that person as a sworn enemy!


    Fang Chen looked toward the entrance of the courtyard and said softly, "We have guests. Li Cang, prepare some tea."


    It wasn''t long before Fang Xiu and the rest were sitting around the stone table as they sipped on the tea Li Cang brewed. They asionally looked at Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen suddenly smiled. "Everyone, you didn''te here just to see me, did you? Weren''t we together not just long ago."


    "Fang Chen, how''s that little girl?" asked Fang Yun suddenly.


    ¡°She''s sleeping inside, recovering her energy,¡± said Fang Chen.


    "Fang Chen..." Fang Jue showed an awkward smile. "Actually, we''re here to ask you for pointers on the Five Element Controlling Technique...."


    Fang Xiu nodded. "Yes, we want to know how we could reach your level. If it''s inconvenient for you to say, then never mind."


    Fang Chen smiled and said, "There is no special trick. Practice makes perfect."


    "Do you practice all the time?" Fang Hao looked puzzled. "But if you spend all your time practicing controlling the elements, what about your cultivation?"


    Fang Chen chuckled. "I don''t need to practice all the time, just when I have free time. I have a habit of practicing the Five Element Controlling Technique while making talismans."


    While Fang Chen''s method might not be suitable for Fang Xiu and them, it could perhaps give them some inspiration, which was enough. After all, other cultivators needed to meditate and practice diligently, while Fang Chen''s cultivation only required him to deplete his spiritual energy.


    Ever since Fang Chen got his hands on the <i>Introduction to the Three Thousand Daos</i>, the number of times he meditated could be counted on one hand....


    Everyone was surprised.


    "You practicing the Five Elements Controlling Technique while making talismans?"


    He was even multitasking?!


    How is this... possible...?


    They were initially reluctant to believe it, but considering Fang Chen''s mastery of the Five Elements Controlling Technique, they had no choice but to believe him.


    Fang Xiu muttered to himself, "But making talismans requires immense concentration, and cultivation is the same. He does the two at the same while also practicing his control over the five elements? If one makes a mistake while crafting talismans, it will at most fail, but if a cultivator made a mistake while cultivating, it could lead them astray...."


    "But what if it works?" Fang Jue''s expression turned serious. "Perhaps that''s what it means to obtain twice the result with half the effort. Both tasks require extreme concentration, so if one can truly multitask like this, it''s as if they''re fine-tuning their control over spiritual energy."


    "At the very least, it could free up some extra time," someone whispered.


    Everyone fell into deep thought.


    Fang Chen, seeing their reactions, kindly reminded them, "Perhaps you can try multitasking with making talismans, pill refining, or other tasks, but don''t attempt to practice the Five Elements Controlling Technique while cultivating. If you experience cultivation deviation, it''s not my responsibility."


    Fang Xiu nodded lightly and said to everyone, "Do not attempt to do this lightly, especially not during cultivation."


    Everyone quickly nodded.


    "How lively it is here. You''re all gathered. Why didn''t you call me?" Suddenly, a figure appeared at the door, warmly smiling at everyone.


    Fang Xiu and the others'' expressions darkened when they saw the neer.


    Fang Jue looked at Fang Chen and whispered softly, "That''s Fang Shang from the second branch. His mother and Jue Wudi¡¯s mother are sisters. He can''t be here for anything good."

 Chapter 375: Cruel Words

    Chapter 375: Cruel Words


    Fang Shang appeared to be around twenty-eight years old. He was tall and thin. He had a yful smile on his face as he walked slowly into the courtyard. His gaze swept over Fang Xiu and the others one by one before finallynding on Fang Chen.


    "It''s really lively around here." Fang Shang smirked. "What are you all plotting?"


    Fang Yun''s face revealed a hint of anger. "Fang Shang, what are you talking about? What do you mean by ''plotting''?"


    "You''re not plotting anything? Could it be that you''re just here to have tea?" Fang Shang chuckled lightly. "I understand, I understand. Now that Brother Fang Chen has returned to the family, you finally have someone you can rely on to suppress Fang Lingxing and be the pride of the Fang Family. So, you couldn''t wait to tter him."


    A sh of anger flickered in the eyes of the crowd.


    "What do you want?" asked Fang Chen directly.


    Fang Shang''s yful smile faded. "Nothing much," he said. "I heard that my cousin lost to you today, so I came to see what kind of person could embarrass my cousin. But after taking a look at you, I must say, you''re just like everyone else. Oh, except you''re missing a pair of eyes, so you¡¯re just a cripple."


    Fang Xiu stood up. "That''s enough!"


    Fang Jue rose to his feet too. They stared at Fang Shang with determination. "You''re only at the 11th stage of the Qi Refining Realm. Don''t act all arrogant because you''re the leader of the second branch. You''re not impressive!"


    Fang Shang smiled ambiguously. His eyes were filled with mockery as he looked at Fang Chen. "On ount of us all being from the same family, I''m here to let you know that my cousin''s background is beyond your imagination. Going against him is a sure path to death."


    Then, he turned to Fang Xiu and the others. "As for you, if it weren''t for my good rtionship with my cousin, your actions today would''ve brought disaster to our family."


    <em>What an insect¡­</em>


    Fang Chen''s thoughts stirred.


    Fang Shang''s confidence seemed unfounded, and he was full of assurance toward Jue Wudi. He seemed to know about Jue Wudi''s backing, too. In light of the rtionship between them, if Jue Wudi and Tong Baizhou were to leave a spy in the Fang Family, it would most likely be Fang Shang.


    Although he had no evidence to back his spection, it shouldn''t be that difficult to investigate. If Fang Shang was a member of the Spirit Blood Sect too, or at least knew about them, then, including him, there were already four individuals in the capital who deserved to die.


    Fang Chen chuckled inwardly. <em>What a good day. This is a gift delivered right to my doorstep.</em>


    "Fang Shang, are you insane or just ignorant? You think a mere Jue Wudi can bring disaster to our family? Have you forgotten that you''re also a member of the Fang Family? Have you forgotten that we are one of the three pirs in Grand Qian?" Fang Xiu''s brows furrowed. "Even if we consider the connections to the Cloud Water Empire, while Jue Wudi has his backers, so do we. We won''t becking in the least."


    "You think you know shit? I''ll say what I want today," Fang Shang retorted, then turned to Fang Chen and said, "If you''re smart, send that girl back to the Jue Family, make amends with my cousin, and we can still get along just fine."


    "And if I don''t?" asked Fang Chen.


    "If you don''t," Fang Shang''s eyes shed with a sly smile, "I''ll make sure you can''t stay here any longer."


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "Let¡¯s wait and see."


    Seeing Fang Chen''s indifferent attitude, Fang Shang didn''t say more and left with a coldugh.


    With Fang Shang''s departure, the mood soured, and everyone started to take their leave one by one.


    "Young master, I''ve caused you a lot of trouble, haven''t I?" Jiang Tianai, who had apparently been woken up by their voices, came to Fang Chen''s side with a sorrowful expression that didn''t fit her age.


    Li Cang and Chang Fen quietly assessed Jiang Tianai, trying to glean anything from her.


    However, after observing her for a while, the two of them felt that Jiang Tianai was quite ordinary. Even if she was a cultivator, Li Cang didn¡¯t consider it to be significant.


    "It''s not that big of a deal." Fang Chen smiled and shook his head. Even without Jiang Tianai, he would have actively sought out these troubles.


    "You didn''t hurt me just now, but you did show me the strength of a Martial Emperor. Take these twenty pieces of low-grade spirit stones," said Fang Chen, taking out twenty spirit stones and tossing them to Cheng Fen. "Also, take good care of this girl from now on. Her surname is Jiang."


    Chang Fen was overjoyed. She didn''t expect this pleasant surprise at all. She epted the spirit stones and thanked Fang Chen repeatedly before respectfully turning to Jiang Tianai. "Young Lady Jiang, from now on, I''ll take care of your daily necessities."


    Jiang Tianai nodded lightly. "Thank you, Auntie."


    "Get her something to eat, maybe something light. She probably hasn''t eaten anything in a while," said Fang Chen before leaving to his room.


    Fang Chen''s divine soul was standing high in the void, with the Fang Family manor right beneath him. Fang Chen''s gaze prated through theyers of void and swept in all directions. Finally, he locked onto Fang Shang, who had just left the manor, and followed him all the way to the Jade River Pavilion in the outer city.


    "Come in," Tong Baizhou led Fang Shang into a quiet room, his expression serious.


    "You just went to see Fang Chen. How was he?"


    Fang Shang was very calm at this moment. He didn''t have that frivolous and arrogant expression he had before. He seemed more thoughtful. "How can I describe this person... He was indifferent and unaffected by my harsh words, as if he doesn''t care at all."


    "Was he pretending?" Tong Baizhou looked puzzled.


    Fang Shang shook his head lightly. "Doesn''t seem like he¡¯s pretending. I felt that he genuinely didn''t care about what I said."


    "So, he''s aloof. I heard he experienced many battles before he returned to the Fang Family. For him to rise from the bottom all the way back to the main branch of the Fang Family is quite impressive," said Tong Baizhou in a deep voice. "Besides that, he knows a lot about Immortal Origin Stones. My father suspects he''s an Immortal Origin Master, which is rare. You could hardly find such people even amongst the numerous fourth-tier empires."


    "How could he be experienced with Immortal Origin Stones? Those can only be found in specific regions. Besides, I received information from the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion that he sold a batch of Purple Lightning Talismans, and this is one of them," said Tong Baizhou, handing over a Purple Lightning Talisman to Fang Shang.


    "I''ve examined this Purple Lightning Talisman, and its quality is excellent. It''s capable of threatening those at the 11th stage of the Qi Refining Realm. If this young man trulyes from such a backwater ce, how would he have so many means?"


    Fang Shang took the Purple Lightning Talisman and frowned as he examined it.


    "Are you implying that this young man hails from a fourth-tier empire, or even a third-tier one? And that there are strong backers behind him?" said Fang Shang.


    "That could be one possibility. You don''t know this young man''s true identity yet," said Tong Baizhou with a faint smile.


    Fang Chen was standing not too far away from them. He couldn''t help but sigh. It seemed that Jade River Pavilion had ess to quite a few information channels in the capital. They were trying to uncover his origins.

 Chapter 376: Evasion Technique

    Chapter 376: Evasion Technique


    Fang Shang was surprised. "Identity? What identity can he have?"


    Tong Baizhou said lightly, "There was once an extraordinary genius named Fang Tingyuan among your family''s ancestors. I wonder if you heard about him?"


    A solemn expression appeared in Fang Shang''s eyes. "I have. He is the younger brother of Ancestor Fang Tingjian. He''s also Ancestor Fang Wanli''s great uncle," he said. "Stop beating around the bush. Just say it."


    Tong Baizhou nodded lightly. "Fang Chen is a descendant of Fang Tingyuan. Back then, when your family expelled Fang Tingyuan, they said that if a descendant of Fang Tingyuan were to step into the path of immortality, he could return to the Fang Family and reim his ancestry. The condition was that Fang Tingyuan couldn''t pass down the Fang Family''s heritage to his descendants."


    Fang Shang was shocked. "He is actually a descendant of Ancestor Tingyuan?"


    Tong Baizhou chuckled lightly. "Isn¡¯t this shocking? This news has been kept under wraps by the higher-ups of your family. Fortunately, Fang Mosheng is on good terms with your cousin. Or rather, for the sake of Fang Lingxing, he has already spread the news to your cousin."


    Fang Shang frowned. "So what if he is Fang Tingyuan''s descendant? That person had his cultivation crippled four hundred years ago."


    "He may have been crippled, but what about his connections?" Tong Baizhou said in a deep voice. "Factions, senior brothers, friends. Tingyuan couldn''t possibly have had no friends in this world, right?"


    "You mean..." Fang Shang''s expression turned serious. "That demoness who massacred the Profound Void Temple?""Exactly." Tong Baizhou nodded lightly. "ording to records, after Tingyuan''s incident, no cultivators from his sect appeared. Fang Tingyuan''s enemies dealt with the aftermath perfectly, yet that demoness still came. She massacred the Profound Void Temple, leaving it unable to recover, and even prohibited it from passing down Buddhist teachings. It''s like a shackle that trapped Chan Yuan, that bald donkey."


    Pausing for a moment, he continued, "The fact that the demoness massacred the Profound Void Temple for Fang Tingyuan shows that they were close. If Fang Chen¡¯s backing is her, what should we do about this? We have to be careful about this."


    "What''s there to be afraid of?" Fang Shang suddenly chuckled. "Didn''t you say that the Kunlong Battle General wille to Grand Qian soon to personally supervise the battle? Assuming that the demoness is at the Nascent Soul Realm, even if she is still alive, she shouldn''t be a match for the Kunlong Battle General. With him around, everything can be easily resolved."


    Fang Chen was surprised, and seriousness arose in his eyes. This wasn''t the first time he heard about Battle Generals. Back when he was eavesdropping on Immortal Sea Dragon and the Heavenly Southern Sect Founder, he had overheard them talking about the Jade Dragon Battle General.


    Now, there would be a powerful expert at the level of a Battle Generaling to Grand Qian to oversee things?


    That was not good news.


    Fang Chen''s expression grew even more serious. If he could advance to the third rank of the sword body, he might barely have the confidence topete with Tong Hu. By utilizing the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture and the inherent power of Little Sword, he could keep the situation under control. But if a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator intervened, even a slight mistake from him could lead to a disaster!


    "That''s one way to put it, but my father said that the Kunlong Battle General won''t be here any time soon. It will have to wait until we kill the young master of the Dongfang Family of Great Wei, provoking a war between the two empires. Only then will the Kunlong Battle Generale to oversee the operation and help condense the Blood Spirit Pill."


    Tong Baizhou frowned. "I''m worried that before this is resolved, the matters between your cousin and Fang Chen might affect the main matters. I''ve advised him, but he refuses to listen to me. He insists on having the duel with Fang Chen."


    Fang Chen breathed a sigh of relief. <em>Kunlong Battle General will onlye to Grand Qian when things are settled down? That makes things easier.</em>


    However, Fang Chen knew he couldn''t rxpletely still. He still had to prepare for the possibility of facing a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator. A minor character like Tong Baizhou couldn''t be fully aware of the movements of a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator.


    "No need to advise him. This matter will be settled at the beginning of the trade conference. Although I wasn''t present during their battle, I asked others about it. Fang Chen never dared to confront my cousin directly. If it wasn''t for some kind of evasion technique he used to approach my cousin, he wouldn''t have won.


    "You know us cultivators don''t have strong physical bodies like martial artists do. So as long as you''re able to close the gap, it will spell trouble for any cultivator."


    Fang Shang chuckled lightly. "My cousin won''t make the same mistake twice. This time, the Jue Family will give him a treasure. With that, Fang Chen won''t be able to get close to him again. We can sit back and enjoy the show. Even if we are wary of the people behind Fang Chen affecting our ns, we can spare his life for now. After the n is executed, who can change the oue?"


    Tong Baizhou nodded slightly. He knew that was all they could do.


    After a few more words, Fang Shang left the room and picked a few Immortal Origin Stones from the Jade River Pavilion to cut them open.


    <em>A treasure that will absolutely prevent me from closing the gap?</em> Fang Chen pondered as his divine soul quietly left.


    This time, he went to the Jue Family. He easily found Jiang Zhong and, as he expected, it was clear that he had been tortured once more, but Jiang Zhong still refused to open his mouth.


    Fang Chen turned and entered a quiet room, where Jue Wudi was standing with his head down in front of Jue Feichen.


    Jue Feichen suddenly spoke up. "What''s wrong? Are you feeling very dissatisfied?"


    Jue Wudi remained silent for a few moments before nodding slowly. "I was too careless."


    Jue Feichen said indifferently, "If that''s what you think then you''repletely mistaken. If you fell under the effect of the illusion spell, then you were underestimating the enemy, because there were clues that you were under an illusion.


    "Moreover, you were Illusion Talisman''s main target, not the others. If you had paid attention to how the people around you were reacting you would''ve noticed that something was wrong, and you wouldn''t have caused Jue Tiangang to lose both arms."


    Jue Wudi remained silent.


    Jue Feichen continued, "As for the second fight, it isn''t that you were careless."


    Jue Wudi was slightly surprised. "I wasn''t careless?"


    Jue Feichen nodded. "The method he used to approach you should be a kind of evasion technique. Evasion techniques inheritance are rare. They aren''t asmon as Cloud Riding, Sword Maniption, Rainbow Transformation, or the Five Element Controlling Technique," he said.


    "If a cultivator can master an evasion technique such as the Five Element Evasion Technique, their strength will increase significantly. Even we don''t have such an inheritance. Your loss is justified."


    Jue Wudi''s expression changed into one of shock. "Could his evasion technique be from... Fang Tingyuan?"


    <em>How could Fang Chen possess a skill that even he didn''t have?</em>


    Jue Feichen replied, "Not necessarily. Besides, even if Fang Tingyuan''s sect has an evasion technique, he wouldn''t dare to pass it down to others. His sect would wipe out his lineage if they caught wind of this, not to mention that it would implicate the main line of the Fang Family. His lineage wouldn''t have had to wait 400 years just to produce one cultivator and return to their family if he had passed down his inheritance to them."


    Jue Feichen shook his head lightly. "Perhaps Fang Chen had a fortuitous encounter; this is his destiny."


    At that point, Jue Feichen looked at Jue Wudi and said, "We must get our hands on this evasion technique if there is a chance. But for now, I will give you a treasure to break this technique. After you defeat him, I will seize the opportunity."


    Jue Wudi''s eyes flickered slightly. He feared that Jue Feichen''s n would affect his own affairs. "He still has Fang Wanli and Fang Tingjian behind him¡­."


    "It doesn''t matter," said Jue Feichen with a light smile. "Someone will handle those two old things when the timees."


    Fang Chen was nearby.


    <em>An evasion technique? Perhaps the Shadow Buddha Technique is a kind of evasion technique as he said.</em>


    Fang Chen looked at Jue Wudi and Jue Feichen. Those two hadn''t mentioned the Spirit Blood Sect at all. Could it be that Jue Feichen had nothing to do with the Spirit Blood Sect?

 Chapter 377: Plan Ahead

    Chapter 377: n Ahead


    Returning his divine soul to his body, Fang Chen remained seated quietly in his room, deep in thought.


    He had obtained a crucial piece of information this time.


    The Spirit Blood Sect would send a Nascent Soul Realm expert, the Kunlong Battle General, to Great Qian to oversee the operation for the Blood Spirit Pill. The prerequisite was that Tong Baizhou, Jue Wudi, Fang Shang, and the others would sessfully assassinate the young master of the Great Wei''s Dongfang Family, which would provoke a conflict between the two empires and plunge them into war. If these three failed their mission, it was highly likely that the Kunlong Battle General would not make an appearance in Great Qian.


    "Knowing that Tong Hu is at the Golden Core Realm and is also a cultivator of the Spirit Blood Sect, his existence is crucial for this operation. Also, the three of them might not be involved in the mission directly, and might only be responsible for creating the conditions. Time waits for no one, I have to do something."


    He was only at the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm. Even though he had the battle prowess to dominate ordinary Foundation Building Realm cultivators, it was far from enough to deal with a Golden Core Realm cultivator. He had originally nned to purchase peak-grade, yellow-rank treasure at the trade conference and smoothly advance to the third rank of the sword body. However, it seemed that he needed to bring his n forward.


    ***


    At the residence of Tiger Lord.


    Nong Guiqian was sitting silently on the stone stool, asionally furrowing his brows. Tiger Lord noticed his expression and already had a clue about what was bothering him.


    "Fourth Brother, don''t be disheartened. That person is too mysterious. It''s normal for you to fall shortpared to him,"forted Tiger Lord.


    "But it doesn''t make sense... Even if he knows the Shadow Buddha Technique, how can he sense my movements? It doesn''t make any sense¡­." mumbled Nong Guiquan to himself.


    Tiger Lord sighed lightly. "You must understand that there are always people better than us. In the cultivation world, many things defy logic. There are true prodigies out there who have immeasurable cultivation and who''re just right around our age.


    "If you look at it from another perspective, any of the Nascent Soul Realm cultivators defy logic. Why can they ascend to the Nascent Soul Realm while we struggle at the Foundation Building Realm, with no confidence of ever reaching the Golden Core Realm?"


    "But... it really doesn''t make sense¡­."


    A voice suddenly rang out. "Tiger Lord, may I ask you something?"


    Startled by the voice that had appeared out of nowhere, Nong Guiquan''s frame trembled abruptly.


    Tiger Lord seemed to have grown used to such surprises, and he couldn''t help but feel amused seeing Nong Guiquan so spooked.


    "So, you can be startled too! Now you know how it feels when someone scares the hell out of you!"


    Nong Guiquan wore an unpleasant expression as he cranked his neck to look at Fang Chen.


    Tiger Lord stood up enthusiastically. "Daoist Fang, is there something you''d like to ask?"


    "Do you know where I can buy a peak-grade, yellow-rank treasure?" asked Fang Chen with a faint smile.


    A peak-grade, yellow rank treasure?


    Tiger Lord''s expression froze for a moment before a hint of seriousness appeared on his face. He whispered, "You can wait for the trade conference to begin. I heard there will be peak-grade, yellow-rank treasures up for sale."


    "The trade conference is still a while away. Is there any ce to buy it before then?"


    Tiger Lord cautiously replied, "Peak-grade, yellow-rank... These kinds of treasures are extremely rare. You''d usually only find them up for sale on the market when Nascent Soul cultivators put them up, wanting to discard of treasures they don''t need. Daoist Fang, are you looking for a treasure like that for your duel with Jue Wudi? I don¡¯t think it¡¯s necessary, he¡¯s not even your match."


    Fang Chen smiled and said, "I''m buying it to give to someone as a gift. You¡¯re right, I wouldn''t need a peak-grade, yellow-rank treasure to deal with Jue Wudi."


    <em>He''s buying it as a gift?! Is it for the Nascent Soul Realm elder backing him?</em>


    Tiger Lord began to specte, his expression growing even more serious. Indeed, there must be a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator supporting him from behind! Thinking about it, it made sense. Without a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator backing him, how could Fang Chen possess such unfathomable abilities at his age and cultivator level? He was even able toprehend the Shadow Buddha Technique so effortlessly.


    "I... I can''t think of any ce where they are sold. Even in a fourth-tier empire, such treasures are rare and hardly seen," said Tiger Lord with a touch of embarrassment. His influence was limited to Grand Qian, and this matter was clearly out of his league.


    Fang Chen contemted, "If there''s none avable, I may have to make do with high-grade, yellow-rank treasures. Although, I''m not sure if the difference in power will be too big."


    The Little Sword said that the higher the grade of the treasure, the better its power. A high-grade, yellow-rank treasure had a base price of around two thousand low-grade spirit stones. Among them, those with close to seventy-two Soul Imprints may even sell for five to six thousand low-grade spirit stones. However, their effects were far inferior to the weakest peak-grade, yellow-rank treasure. Buying peak-grade, yellow-rank treasures would be the best way to maximize cost-effectiveness.


    Nong Guiquan seemed to have recalled something, as he suddenly voiced out, "I-I might know a ce who sells one. However, that treasure is kind of iplete. It has a total of eighty Soul Imprints, but forty of them are sealed, so it went unsold for a long time. I''m not sure it''s still there or if it was sold already."


    Tiger Lord''s eyes lit up. He immediately turned to Fang Chen with a smile and introduced his brother, "Daoist Fang, this is my fourth brother, Nong Guiquan. He has traveled far and wide, so he''s a lot more experienced than I am."


    "Sealed?" Fang Chen''s eyes flickered. He asked inwardly, "<em>Little Sword, is there a difference to you between sealed treasures and unsealed ones?</em>"


    "No difference! As long as it''s edible, it''s all good stuff," replied Little Sword excitedly. "Little Chen, I have a feeling I''m about to advance to the third rank of the sword body!"


    "Good." Fang Chen nodded internally, then looked at Nong Guiquan and said with a smile, "Daoist, where is that ce you mentioned? Is it far from Grand Qian? How long does a round trip take?"


    Nong Guiquan thought for a bit before replying, "A round trip takes at least a month and a half. However, that ce is a little dangerous. There are often ouws resting there, and I had only passed by it once when I was on a mission. Going there isn''t an issue, but if those people caught wind of the fact that you have peak-grade, yellow-rank treasure on you on your way out, I''m afraid it would be difficult to leave."


    "Fourth Brother, have you forgotten?" said Lord Tiger. "Daoist Fang knows the Shadow Buddha Technique."


    Nong Guiquan''s face froze for a moment before he showed a bitter twist. "In that case, there''s no problem."


    Nong Guiquan took out a nk jade slip, drew the route on it, and handed it to Fang Chen. "Daoist, I will only charge you one hundred low-grade spirit stones for the route there."


    Tiger Lord, fearing that Fang Chen might misunderstand, smiled apologetically. "Please forgive us. We cultivators from the Heavenly Doom Hall are all like this."


    Fang Chen smiled and did not put much meaning to it. He handed a hundred Nong Guiquan the spirit stones before taking the jade slip.


    After a brief moment of thought, he looked at Nong Guiquan. "Are you in a hurry to leave?"


    Nong Guiquan looked at Fang Chen. "Do you have business for us?"


    Fang Chen nodded. "I may need your help during the trade conference."


    Nong Guiquan immediately agreed. "As long as the price is right, I have no problem."


    "Then it''s settled," said Fang Chen with a smile. He sped his fist toward the two before sinking into the shadows.


    The next day, news of Fang Chen entering seclusion in preparation for his battle with Jue Wudi spread, letting people know that he''d no longer be weing visitors.

 Chapter 378: The Demon Cloud Empire

    Chapter 378: The Demon Cloud Empire


    Chapter 378 The Demon Cloud Empire


    "Have this year''s boys and girls been gathered? If we don''t gather them soon, the Divine Monarch will flood Dragon Ridge City again."


    "Why can''t we gather them? These officials have their ways. If we don''t gather enough people, how can we survive?"


    "Lord, please, have mercy. My family only has this one child. Please don''t take him away! If he dies, I won''t be able to go on living!"


    As people were chatting, a cry for help came from not far away where a crowd had gathered.


    A middle-aged man with a pale face was tightly holding onto a chubby boy. He was kneeling on the ground and pleading desperately to the soldier in uniform in front of him.


    The expressionless soldier said coldly, "This has been the rule of our Dragon Ridge City for many years. I¡¯m simply following the rules, and I¡¯m afraid I cannot amodate your request."


    "Give it up, Old Wang. Dragon Ridge City has been like this for many years. It''s your turn now."


    Many onlookers began to speak up, persuading the man. "These are offerings to the Divine Monarch. Only when the Divine Monarch receives the offerings can we ensure good weather and blessings for ournd. Otherwise, we won''t even be able to survive!"


    "What heartless words are you saying!" said Old Wang, fiercely. "Don''t think I don''t know that you''re secretly raising your children elsewhere! If not for you doing that, it wouldn''t have been my turn this year! One more year and my son would''ve been too old for this! Tell me, why should I give him up as a tribute to the Divine Monarch?"


    The crowd fell silent as ambiguous expressions appeared on their faces.


    The soldier had no choice but to walk up and forcefully pull Old Wang away from the chubby boy in his arms.


    The little child was only three years old and didn''t know what was happening. However, due to themotion, he became startled and started crying loudly.


    Fang Chen was standing outside the crowd with his brow furrowed.


    "Tribute?"


    He had been following the route provided by Nong Guiquan for almost half a month. He was currently outside but near the borders of Grand Qian. He still had no idea which empire this was, however.


    The route had turned a bit unclear, so Fang Chen stopped to be on the safer side. That was when he stumbled upon this event by coincidence.


    Who was this Divine Monarch these mortals mentioned? And why did he require young boys and girls to be offered to him? There was such a brazen demonic cultivator out there? Even the Spirit Blood Sect acted only in secret.


    When the people saw the soldiers taking the boy away, they didn''t leave. Instead, they followed the soldiers in mass.


    Not long after, Fang Chen saw these soldiers convene with a troop that had hundreds of young children.


    An official was counting the numbers, repeatedly checking the children present.


    Suddenly, the official grinned and said, "Three hundred boys, three hundred girls. The numbers areplete. Let''s go deliver them to the Divine Monarch."


    The massive group proceeded to move in a certain direction, with more and moremoners joining along the way.


    "Senior Brother, who is this Divine Monarch they speak of?"


    "There¡¯s a river outside of Dragon Ridge City. The Divine Monarch they mention is a demonic cultivator in that river, who is rumored to be in the Foundation Building Realm and have the Flood Dragon Bloodline."


    Fang Chen''s gaze shifted as he looked in the direction of that voice.


    He saw several young men and women talking. They were clearly cultivators.


    A young girl revealed a shocked expression. "Even if it''s a Foundation Building Realm demonic cultivator, isn''t this toowless? Sacrificing young boys and girls in broad daylight¡­. Don''t the cultivators in Demon Cloud Empire care about this?


    A slightly older youth sighed lightly. "Tell me again, what is this ce called?"


    "Demon Cloud Empire?"


    "Exactly. This empire is different from other empires. It''s been rumored that many years ago, a demonic cloud arrived, pouring down demonic rain for ten years. Since that day, the cultivators in the Demon Cloud Empire changed. They have all fallen into the demonic Dao.


    "The cultivation techniques they practice are all extremely sinister. This is true for everywhere else in the empire," the youth exined.


    The young girl and several other young men and women looked astonished. "Are all the cultivators in the Demon Cloud Empire like that Divine Monarch?"


    The youth spoke softly. "Not entirely. There are cultivators who are more sober than others and they fall into a more grey area. After the outside world learned of this, there were sects that wanted to take action to eliminate those cultivators who fell into the demonic path. But the Emperor of the Demon Cloud Empire threw his lot behind the Hidden Cloud Ancestor."


    "Upon hearing about this, the empires and sects turned a blind eye. They won''t risk offending a Nascent Soul Realm expert who has lived for almost eight hundred years because of these matters."


    The young men and women showed expressions of shock. There was fear and dread in their eyes.


    "Hidden Cloud Ancestor!"


    It was clear they knew who the Hidden Cloud Ancestor was and knew how terrifying he could be.


    "Brothers and sisters, we are here on this trip to get medicine for our master, so let''s not bother with these trivial matters. Even if we want to help, we can''t deal with that Divine Monarch with our cultivation level," said the young man softly.


    Through the conversation of these young people, Fang Chen gained a bit of understanding of this ce.


    It seemed that the route Nong Quiquan recorded led to a ce inside the Demon Cloud Empire. It was no wonder he said that there were many dangerous individuals staying here. ording to these young people he had overheard, the entire Demon Cloud Empire Country was immersed in the demonic Dao. It was a fifth-tier demonic empire.


    Fang Chen took out the Mirror of the Universe and asked, "Xiao Zhou, how much do you know about the Demon Cloud Empire?"


    This piece of information seemed to be free, as Mirror of the Universe immediately disyed some basic information about the Demon Cloud Empire.


    <em>Demon Cloud Empire., a fifth-tier empire with a Golden Core Realm expert sitting in power. Thisnd has undergone a baptism of demonic blood, enhancing theprehension of demonic techniques among the local cultivators!</em>


    Fang Chen was slightly startled. "Increasedprehension of demonic techniques? These cultivators didn''t be demonic because they got tainted with demonic blood?"


    "Brother, of course they didn''t be demonic cultivators out of nowhere. Which cultivator hasn''t been practicing and cultivating their hearts for years? It''s just that the cultivators here discovered that they have a natural talent for the demonic dao, and in pursuit of stronger cultivation, they chose this path," mumbled Mirror of the Universe. It then added, "Hey, Brother, can you give me some more low-grade spirit stones?"


    Suddenly, Little Sword''s voice rang out. "Little Chen, don''t give it to him! Save the spirit stones for me! Buy me treasures with them!"


    The Mirror of the Universe scolded, "You little rascal, why are you so selfish? Even if you want treasures for yourself, they won''t cost that many spirit stones."


    Fang Chen felt helpless when he saw them start arguing again. However, he did feel that Little Sword''s words made sense. He couldn¡¯t continue giving spirit stones to Mirror of the Universe. He needed to spend money on his sword.


    The roaring river waters surged unpredictably as arge group of Dragon Ridge City¡¯s folk gathered here.


    An official, apanied by soldiers, arrived at the riverbank and called out, "Great Divine Monarch, Great Divine Monarch~"


    <em>Ssh!</em>


    The river waters surged to the sides, and a huge head covered in densely packed ck scales slowly emerged from the surface. There were two bulges on its forehead as if something was about to burst out from within. With its ferocious appearance and its pair of emerald green eyes, the residents on the riverbank immediately showed expressions of fear and awe.


    The official said respectfully, "Great Divine Monarch, we have prepared three hundred boys and girls."


    The Divine Monarch nced at the innocent and clueless children with satisfaction. Just as he was about to speak, a figure descended from the sky.


    "Out of the way!"


    A sh of sword light flickered, and a bloody hole appeared in the middle of the huge head''s forehead. The Divine Monarch''s eyes turned nk, and it slowly lost all signs of life. Its massive body slowly sank back down into the waters and disappeared.


    The crowd was dumbfounded, unable to wrap their heads around what just happened.

 Chapter 379: A Scholar Is Utterly Useless

    Chapter 379: A Schr Is Utterly Useless


    "D-Divine Monarch!?" The official was stunned for a moment before finally regaining his senses and asking the soldiers behind him, "Just now... did a cultivator fly over here and attack the Divine Monarch with a sword?"


    "Y-yes, it seems so..." the soldier stammered.


    The official muttered to himself, "What kind of cultivator is so arrogant that he would just kill Divine Monarch because he blocked his path?"


    In the crowd, the group of young men and women were astonished by the sudden turn of events.


    "Senior brother, who was that just now...?"


    "It''s possible that it was a demonic cultivator who is more domineering than the Divine Monarch passing through here. Perhaps he couldn''t tolerate him so he killed him on a whim,'''' said the young man softly. He then continued, "But there''s another possibility..."


    "What possibility?"


    "Perhaps it was a righteous cultivator who couldn''t stand injustice, so he found an excuse to kill the Divine Monarch."


    The young girl looked puzzled. "Why would a righteous cultivator need an excuse?"The young man sighed softly. "Because the existence behind Divine Monarch would surely vent his anger on the people here if the cultivator did out of justice."


    Everyone came to a realization, but they were still skeptical of the young man''s exnations. However, witnessing a Foundation Building Realm demonic cultivator die so easily today, they suddenly had a few more respects and fears for the cultivation world.


    To them, the Foundation Building Realm was really strong. But to others in the cultivation world, Foundation Building cultivators were insignificant ants that could be killed on a whim¡­.


    ***


    "Did you see that? My abilities are much more useful than yours. Little Chen''s spirit stones will definitely be spent on me first. What use do you have? A schr is utterly useless!"


    After Little Sword killed the Divine Monarch, he immediately began to boast to Mirror of the Universe.


    "Junior, I have existed far longer than you have. Even a mere Sword Star Embryo dares to mock me. I hail from the Immortal Realm, I am an Immortal Artifact!" retorted Mirror of the Universe defiantly. "At most, you can kill a few Foundation Building Realm demon cultivators, but my abilities are enough to make him one of the top experts in the world!"


    "You''re just talking big! When Little Chen asked you to tell him who possessed the Blood Spirit Pill in the Grand Qian Empire, and who are the Spirit Blood Sect cultivators, you couldn''t even answer!" said Little Sword.


    "You!" Mirror of the Universe couldn''t contain his anger. "This is my rule, rules are not meant to be broken! Without spirit stones, I truly cannot speak!"


    "Enough already. Just admit that you actually don''t know!"


    "I..." The Mirror of the Universe suddenly calmed down, his tone carrying a hint of sarcasm. "Junior, are you trying to provoke me? It''s useless. Without spirit stones, I cannot use my abilities, so I cannot speak."


    "Little Chen, why don''t we find a ce to bury it and see if it talks?" suggested Little Sword.


    Fang Chen sighed helplessly. "Stop quarreling. I really have a limited supply of spirit stones right now, but I will have more in the future. At that time, I¡¯ll make sure you won''t lose out then."


    "I believe in you. Your cultivation is only at the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm yet you can already gather thirty thousand low-grade spirit stones. This already surpasses the achievements of the first-generation ancestor of the Jiang Family. You must know that I followed him for hundreds of years and never saw so many spirit stones until after the two-hundred-year mark" said Mirror of the Universe, buttering up to Fang Chen shamelessly.


    Fang Chen didn''t take its words to heart.


    Following the route provided by Nong Guiquan, he flew for about a day or so until he finally arrived at his destination. Nong Guiquan had said it would take about a month and a half for a round trip, but he didn''t know Fang Chen could transform into a sword. With his speed, although it took half a month toe here, it would only take a maximum of ten days to return.


    A few miles away, a bustling market came into view. The atmosphere in the market was quite different, as all the cultivators in there seemed gloomy. There was a glimmer of ruthlessness that shed in their eyes.


    Because Fang Chen came alone, dozens of eyes immediately fell on him. However, when the people around noticed that they couldn''t see through his cultivation, they retracted their gazes. Still, there were a few who continued to nce at Fang Chen from time to time.


    Fang Chen sighed lightly. "The Heavenly Treasure Pavilion can even do business here. They really aren''t simple."


    The establishment Nong Guiqian spoke of was the Heavenly Treasure Pavillion. They were the ones selling the treasure. It had been on sale for many years but had yet to find a buyer.


    When Fang Chen entered the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion, a servant with cold and stern eyes scanned Fang Chen. He stepped forward and asked softly, "What do you need?"


    Fang Chen replied, "I want to purchase a treasure."


    "Low-grade, yellow-rank?" The servant gestured lightly. "Those treasures can be found over there. Customers can go and choose by themselves. At the lowest, there are three Soul Imprints, and at most, they have twelve."


    Fang Chen suddenlymented, "I heard that there''s a treasure here that has been unsold for a long time."


    The servant paused for a moment, a hint of doubt crossing his face. After sizing up Fang Chen, he whispered softly, "Please wait here."


    With that, the servant turned and left.


    When he appeared again, there was a middle-aged man with him.


    The middle-aged man had a warm smile on his face as he asked, "Young man, I heard you''re interested in our store''s Demonic Suppression Wheel?"


    Fang Chen nodded, not wanting to waste time with the man. He hoped to buy the treasure and leave this ce as soon as possible.


    "Oh!" The middle-aged man sighed and said, "If only you hade a few days earlier. There have been a few people who have shown interest in the Demonic Suppression Wheeltely. I didn''t want to offend anyone, so I could only hold an auction in the end¡­."


    <em>An auction?</em>


    Fang Chen''s brow furrowed.


    "Why don''t you stay here for a few days? The auction will start in three days, and besides the Demonic Suppression Wheel, our store will have several other good items," the middle-aged man said while handing Fang Chen a jade token. "Three dayster,e to our store with this jade token. At that time, someone will naturallye and guide you."


    Taking the jade token from his hand, Fang Chen asked casually, "Are you the storekeeper here?"


    The middle-aged man nodded gently. "Yes, I am. My surname is Lin. You can call me Shopkeeper Lin."


    Fang Chen said with a faint smile, "Storekeeper Lin, besides the Demon Suppression Wheel, what other treasures do you have? You don''t need to introduce low and mid-grade, yellow-rank items."


    Lin Storekeeper was slightly taken aback, his eyes sizing up Fang Chen as if he were an old fox sizing up its prey.


    Noticing how Fang Chen hadn''t opened his eyes since he saw him, Storekeeper Lin couldn''t help but grow suspicious. "Young man, your eyes..."


    "Oh, I can''t see," replied Fang Chen casually.


    Shopkeeper Lin fell deep into thought for a moment, then softly said, "Are you interested in high-grade, yellow-rank treasures?"


    Fang Chen asked, "Do you have any? If not, I''ll wait for the auction in three days,"


    Shopkeeper Lin immediately smiled. "Of course, we do. How could we not? The Heavenly Treasure Pavilion is a reputable establishment. Anyone whoes in here will definitely leave satisfied," he said. "But you want both the Demon Suppression Wheel and a high-grade, yellow-rank treasure. Are you carrying¡­ enough spirit stones?"


    "You don''t have to worry about that," said Fang Chen, coldly. "Since I dared toe here, I naturally have enough spirit stones."


    Shopkeeper Lin''s smile became even warmer. "Don''t be upset. Everything is possible as long as you have enough spirit stones. Please, follow me."

 Chapter 380: Binding Bell

    Chapter 380: Binding Bell


    Shopkeeper Lin led Fang Chen to a quiet room.


    Inside, Fang Chen saw three high-grade, yellow-rank treasures put up on disy.


    As Shopkeeper Lin introduced the powers, effects, and the number of Soul Imprints these treasures he had, he casually dropped in their prices, his eyes scanning Fang Chen''s face, trying to read anything from his expression; however, Fang Chen was deadpanned throughout his pitch.


    While Shopkeeper Lin was busy exining, Fang Chen''s divine soul was also appraising the three treasures. One of them was called the Binding Bell. It had the same effect as the Binding Talisman. It had seventy-two Soul Imprints, making it amongst the finest high-grade, yellow-rank treasures. The other two were significantly inferior, with fifty-three and sixty-four Soul Imprints respectively.


    However, even so, they were much strongerpared to those high-grade, yellow-rank treasures that only had thirty-seven or thirty-eight Soul Imprints.


    However, these three treasures had one thing inmon¡ªthey were all more or less damaged, as if they had been worn down in many fierce battles. The aura of their Soul Imprints was also uneven, with some imprints being extremely faint.


    Fang Chen''s eyes flickered slightly. <em>The Binding Bell is indeed a good item, with seventy-two Soul Imprints. A treasure like that is rare in the Grand Qian Empire.</em>


    Fang Chen felt that he could keep this treasure for his own use if he bought it. Even though he wasn''t at the Foundation Building Realm yet, his spiritual energy reserves were huge. If he used all of it, he might be able to barely activate the high-grade, yellow-rank treasure. He could even keep it as a trump card to deal with a Golden Core Realm expert like Tong Hu. It could bring about unexpected results.


    Fang Chen said calmly, "Shopkeeper Lin, there seems to be something wrong with the Soul Imprints of these three treasures. They seem to have been damaged quite severely. Without an Artifact Master to repair them, I''m afraid they can''t be used for long before they break."Shopkeeper Lin was slightly surprised. How did this blind young man discover the treasures'' ws?


    Shopkeeper Lin squinted slightly. <em>No wonder I couldn''t see through his cultivation. This guy might be a hidden Golden Core Realm cultivator.</em>


    This wasn''t too surprising. This wasn''t a market any random cultivator would suddenlye to, especially if they intended to buy a peak yellow-rank treasure¡ªThe Demonic Suppression Wheel. No one who wasn''t capable enough would dare have designs on that treasure.


    Shopkeeper Lin exined with a smile. "Daoist, you may not know this, but the previous owners of these treasures have all perished. These treasures have gone through numerous battles with their owners, so some degree of damage is expected. Moreover, their prices are cheap, and I won''t sell them at the price of newly forged treasures.


    "Take this Binding Bell for example. If it was freshly made, its price would be at least seven thousand low-grade spirit stones, which is already close to some peak-grade, yellow-rank treasures. But now, we''re only selling it for five thousand low-grade spirit stones, giving you a discount of two thousand spirit stones.


    "And these two items are also priced about twenty to thirty percent lower than newly forged ones.


    "To be honest, these three treasures are new arrivals. If you hade a few dayster, there would be no doubt that they would''ve all been sold already."


    Fang Chen pondered for a few moments before speaking slowly. "I¡¯ll pay six thousand low-grade spirit stones for the Binding Bell, and five thousand for the other two, which would make it a total of eleven thousand low-grade spirit stones. How does Shopkeeper Lin feel about this price?"


    Shopkeeper Lin was immediately stunned. "Daoist, you want to buy them all!?"


    Can this customer really fork out more than ten thousand spirit stones?


    No, the key question was, after buying these three treasures, would he stille to the auction for the Demonic Suppression Wheel?


    As the manager of the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion, he didn''t think much of ten thousand low-grade spirit stones. However, it was still rare to see someone just throw out ten thousand spirit stones in one go. This was something you see only once every few decades!


    Feng Chen nodded lightly. "If you''re okay with the price, I''ll buy them all."


    Shopkeeper Lin picked up the treasures abruptly, stood up, and left the room. "Please wait a moment, Daoist."


    Fang Chen''s divine soul followed him.


    He saw him walk into a deep chamber within the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion, where he respectfully called, "Manager, someone wants to purchase three high-grade, yellow-rank treasures and offered eleven thousand low-grade spirit stones."


    After a moment, a voice came from inside the chamber. "Eleven thousand? Who is so generous?"


    Shopkeeper Lin whispered, "It''s a new face."


    Fang Chen''s divine soul shed and arrived in the chamber. He saw a robust figure sitting upright. Even though the figure''s body was human, his head was that of a Liger. He was a demon cultivator, clearly. He was even at the Golden Core Realm.


    "A new face? Sell them to him. And also inform the Emperor of the Demon Cloud Empire about this. He will know what to do," said the Golden Core Realm demon cultivator before closing his eyes and falling silent.


    Shopkeeper Lin spoke up again. "Manager, this person may also be interested in participating in the auction three dayster. It seems that he is particrly interested in the Demonic Suppression Wheel."


    "Oh?" The Golden Core Realm demon cultivator was slightly surprised, a hint of amazement shing in his eyes. "He''s so rich?"


    Shopkeeper Lin suggested in a low voice, "Manager, why not wait until three dayster? It wouldn''t be toote to inform the emperor then?"


    ¡°That¡¯s alright too.¡±


    With that, the Golden Core Realm demon cultivator fell silent. Shopkeeper Lin then bowed respectfully and left.


    Fang Chen pondered. <em>It seems that the Heavenly Treasures Pavilion is a little sketchy. Whenever anyone buys a treasure, they inform the emperor of the Demon Cloud Empire so they snatch them back.</em>


    It might be that the history behind these treasures wasn''t what Shopkeeper Lin painted it out to be. They have probably been here for many years, having been bought and snatched back many times.


    If Fang Chen hadn''t known the Shadow Buddha Technique, he would have stayed in Grand Qian and waited for the trade conference to start. There was no need for him to take such risks. Fortunately, with this technique, he could easily escape from situations that seemed utterly hopeless to others. Perhaps his biggest trump card wasn¡¯t even Little Sword, but the Shadow Buddha Technique.


    Back in the quiet room, Shopkeeper Lin returned with a warm smile to Fang Che and said, "Daoist, if you want all three treasures, it will be eleven thousand one hundred low-grade spirit stones."


    "I''ll take them all." Fang Chen nodded lightly and waved his hand.


    Piles of spirit stones appeared in front of him, releasing a rich spiritual energy into the room.


    Shopkeeper Lin quickly began counting the number of spirit stones.


    Fang Chen took a look at the three treasures and casually stored them in his storage ring.


    After a while, Shopkeeper Lin counted exactly eleven thousand one hundred spirit stones, without any discrepancy. Suppressing his greed, he put on a warm smile and said, "Daoist, the transaction isplete. However, I must kindly remind you. This ce is not very safe, so you should be careful on your way out."


    Fang Chen smiled lightly. "No worries. If there''s nothing else, I''ll take my leave."


    Shopkeeper Lin felt even happier seeing how confident Fang Chen was. He wasn''t afraid of Fang Chen being confident, he was more worried about him being cautious.


    Shortly after, Faeng Chen walked out of the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion and blended into the crowd before disappearing from sight.


    "We lost track of him," said one of Shopkeeper Lin''s subordinates, looking somewhat anxious.


    Shopkeeper Lin chuckled softly. "It''s normal to lose track of him. It doesn''t matter."


    This was their turf, how could they possibly let someone slip away from their grasp?

 Chapter 381: Can I Buy On Credit?

    Chapter 381: Can I Buy On Credit?


    In the shadow, Little Sword had already begun devouring the other two treasures Fang Chen bought.


    Fang Chen was holding the Binding Bell in his hand, examining it.


    "It would take dozens of days to refine such a high-grade treasure," pondered Fang Chen.


    He was nning to stay hidden in the shadows for the next couple of days. This wasn''t the safest option he had, and it was the one that would attract the least trouble. Once he had the Demonic Suppression Wheel, he would let Little Sword devour it and see if it could advance to the third rank. If it couldn''t advance and needed more, he could only feed it the Binding Bell.


    This time, he spent eleven thousand low-grade spirit stones, leaving him with only eighteen thousand he could use to bid for the Demonic Suppression Wheel.


    Suddenly, Fang Chen''s eyes lit up and he took out Mirror of the Universe.


    The moment Mirror of the Universe came out, it saw Little Sword devouring the treasure, and it caused it to feel both jealous and envious. It immediately said to Fang Chen, "Brother, if you need any help, just ask."


    "I want to know if there are any unimed high-grade, yellow-rank treasures or materials nearby?" Fang Chen smiled.


    The Mirror of the Universe gleamed with light. It eagerly said, "Yes, for just ten thousand low-grade spirit stones, I can tell you their whereabouts!"Little Sword hurriedly said, "Don''t give them to him!"


    "Go eat your food!" The Mirror of the Universe coldly snorted. "He''s asking about this for your sake, so don''t be ungrateful!"


    "Ten thousand low-grade spirit stones?" muttered Fang Chen hesitantly. "With that money, I could definitely buy a peak-grade, yellow-rank treasure."


    "I won''t hide it from you, Brother, but If you were still in Grand Qian and asked me this question, I would''ve answered that there wasn''t such a thing," said Mirror of the Universe. "However, as luck would have it, there is indeed a high-grade, yellow-rank treasure that has yet to be imed by anyone here in the Demon Cloud Empire, one that just happens to meet your requirements. It''s not too far away either."


    "Will I be able to make a round trip within three days?" asked Fang Chen.


    "Well... I''ll need some spirit stones to give you an urate estimate," said Mirror of the Universe hesitantly.


    Fang Chen said softly, "I have less than eighteen thousand low-grade spirit stones. If I give you ten thousand spirit stones, I won''t have enough to buy the Demonic Suppression Wheel, so this trip will turn out to have been in vain. Is there any other way we can settle this? How about I buy that information on credit?"


    "No, that''s not possible," Mirror of the Universe refused.


    "How about I pay you half for now?" Fang Chen probed.


    "That''s eptable. If you give me half the amount, I''ll be able to urately tell how long a round trip will take," said Mirror of the Universe immediately.


    Fang Chen didn''t waste any more words. He took out five thousand low-grade spirit stones and tossed them to the Mirror of the Universe.


    Mirror of the Universe absorbed all five thousand low-grade spirit stones in one gulp.


    "Brother, the high-grade, yellow-rank treasure you''re looking for is not far from you. A round trip will take just ten days."


    "Ten days?"


    It seemed like he would have to buy the Demonic Suppression Wheel first.


    Feeling a little helpless, Fang Chen decided to spend the next three days waiting in the shadows.


    Fortunately, the treasure wasn''t too far away¡­.


    "Don''t you want to know what kind of treasure it is, how many soul imprints it has, and its exact location?" probed Mirror of the Universe.


    Fang Chen smiled. "I want to know, yeah, but I can''t afford to spend any more spirit stones at the moment. Wait for a bit."


    "Little Chen, I don''t trust this guy. If he dares to cheat us, I''ll just devour him too."


    Little Sword had already begun devouring the second treasure by now.


    "You want to eat me? You''re too green! Aren''t you scared your sword body will implode? You haven''t even entered the cycle of reincarnation!"


    Mirror of the Universe sneered repeatedly.


    Fortunately, it had already consumed five thousand low-grade spirit stones, so this time it was satisfied and no longer quarreled with Little Sword. It asked Fang Chen to return to his storage ring so it could rest instead.


    And so, three days passed in the blink of an eye.


    Fang Chen appeared again in front of the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion. Coincidentally, he noticed that the group of young people he had seen in Dragon Ridge City were also here. However, they looked a bit disheveled now, especially the older one, who seemed to have suffered considerable internal injuries.


    The group looked very vignt, even when they were in front of the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion. They were constantly looking around, seemingly afraid of encountering some kind of danger.


    A servant from Heavenly Treasure Pavilion saw the group and approached them. He was easily able to tell that this was these people''s first time in the market. He could even tell that they were likely not locals from the Demon Cloud Empire.


    "Dear guests, what are you looking to buy?" he asked.


    The young man spoke slowly. "We heard that you have Snake Spirit Fruit up for sale?"


    The servant nodded with a smile. "We do have it, but it¡¯s not for sale."


    "Not for sale?" The young man was taken aback.


    The young girl beside him asked instinctively, "Why not?"


    The servant chuckled. "Oh, excuse me, I misspoke. It''s not that it''s not for sale, it''s just that it so happens that our shopkeeper has picked this Snake Spirit Fruit to be prepared to be auctioned off in today''s auction. You can attend the auction if you''re interested in it."


    After the servant said this, he happened to notice Fang Chen, who was standing right behind the group.


    The servant''s eyes lit up and he quickly approached Fang Chen. "You¡¯re here! Please follow me to the auction."


    Fang Chen nodded lightly and followed the servant.


    The young people exchanged looks, gritted their teeth, and followed suit.


    The auction was being held in arge hall inside the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion. Many cultivators had already gathered inside, from Qi Refining Realm cultivators to Foundation Building Realm cultivators. There were even a few figures that gave off a sense of profound mystery. Those were people who the attendants were easily able to tell that they weren''t ordinary, so they didn''t dare so much as speak too loudly around them. It was clear that they were Golden Core Realm experts.


    The young girl revealed a panicked look. "Senior Brother, even if we manage to buy the Snake Spirit Fruit, we may not be able to leave the Demon Cloud Empire alive with it."


    Many malicious gazes were sizing them up from the moment they stepped into the hall.


    "Don''t worry, we won''t allow your identities to be exposed so easily. We have our ways to keep the identities of the buyers confidential. You''ll understand once the auction starts." the servant reassured the group with a smile, but he was mainly addressing Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen nodded lightly as the servant led him to the front.


    The Golden Core Realm cultivators nced at Fang Chen. When they noticed that they couldn''t see through his cultivation, their expressions turned pensive.


    Sitting down, the young girl pulled on the young man''s sleeve as she cast a nce toward Fang Chen. "Senior brother, I think I recognize him, I seem to have seen him before in Dragon Ridge City."


    "Don''t speak lightly about others behind their back, Junior Sister. it can easily invite trouble," the young man reminded her in a low voice.


    The young man nced at Fang Chen. The moment his gaze fell on him, his pupils constricted.


    Those clothes seemed so familiar!


    The young man''s mind suddenly stirred. <em>That person who killed the Divine Monarch with a single sword seems to have been dressed very simrly to him!</em>


    Even though he had been moving too fast for him to see clearly, the clothes the two were wearing were very simr!


    There was a high chance that they were the same person!


    The young man''s gaze became somewhat solemn.


    To be able to use a single sword strike to kill a Foundation Building Realm cultivator, the other party¡¯s strength was definitely extraordinary.


    Shopkeeper Lin walked out from behind, his face disying a warm smile as he continuously bowed and saluted the crowd. "Thank you, everyone, foring today. It¡¯s our pleasure to have you here."


    "Shopkeeper Lin, stop wasting words and start the auction quickly. Our time is precious."

 Chapter 382: Hidden Cloud Region

    Chapter 382: Hidden Cloud Region


    Shopkeeper Lin didn''t get angry. He knew that the cultivators from around here were quite short-fused, so he remained unruffled and proceeded to introduce the items that would be auctioned off.


    The shopkeeper instructed someone to bring out the first item for auction: the healing item, Snake Spirit Fruit.


    Shopkeeper Lin smiled faintly and began, "Everyone, I''m sure you have all heard of the Snake Spirit Fruit and even tasted it before, right? This is a peak-grade, yellow-rank spiritual fruit that can heal hundreds of types of injuries. It is extremely rare as it only grows in the death zones where Golden Core Realm Snake Demons fail their tribtions."


    Many people showed an interest in the Snake Spirit Fruit. The breath of several young men and women became slightly hurried.


    Shopkeeper Lin announced, "This Snake Spirit Fruit is of the peak grade, so the starting bid is one thousand low-grade spirit stones, with increments of no less than fifty low-grade spirit stones each time. Interested parties can start bidding,"


    For Qi Refining Realm cultivators and Foundation Building Realm cultivators, a thousand low-grade spirit stones were a considerable amount. Unless they had a deep foundation, it would be a difficult amount to gather.


    This amount of spirit spirits was enough to buy a mid-grade, yellow-rank, or it could even be used to buy more than ten Spirit Essence Pills. Naturally, spending a thousand spirit stones just to buy an item that was only used for healing didn''t quite sit well with a lot of people.


    There were many things in the cultivation world that were very useful but not in high demand, and the Snake Spirit Fruit happened to be one of them.


    Shopkeeper Lin smiled and reminded, "When bidding, remember to use voice transmission. The highest bidder wins."The young man''s expression changed into one of shock. "I didn''t know we could bid through voice transmission."


    He quickly transmitted, "<em>One thousand and fifty low-grade spirit stones.</em>"


    Shopkeeper Lin''s voice sounded in the young man''s mind. "<em>Young brother, someone has bid one thousand one hundred low-grade spirit stones.</em>"


    The young man nced around through the corner of his eye, feeling skeptical. While voice transmission could indeed help avoid trouble, it could also be used underhandedly by the auction''s organizers. If they wanted to inte the prices, they could very easily fabricate nonexistentpetitors.


    The young man clenched his teeth and began to bid. <em>I must obtain this Snake Spirit Fruit no matter what to heal Master''s injuries!</em>


    Slowly, the time it took to steep a pot of tea passed.


    Shopkeeper Lin chuckled lightly and said, "Everyone, the Snake Spirit Fruit has been sold off with a final price of one thousand three hundred and fifty low-grade spirit stones."


    "Is there really someone willing to spend so many spirit stones just to buy a Snake Spirit Fruit?"


    The people whispered to each other, their gazes scanning around as they tried to guess who had such deep pockets.


    Meanwhile, the young man was chatting casually with his junior brothers and sisters.


    "I never expected a Snake Spirit Fruit to fetch such a high price. This is quite an eye-opening experience for you all, isn''t it?"


    "Yes, yes, yes! I wonder which senior has such deep pockets. I''ve never seen so many spirit stones in my life before."


    Fang Chen couldn''t help but feel amused. These youngsters probably couldn''t imagine that Shopkeeper Lin and the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion as a whole were the sketchiest criminal organization around here.


    The biggest advantage of bidding through voice transmission was that others couldn''t know who the bidder was and that only Shopkeeper Lin and his group would be the ones to know. This was convenient for their schemes.


    As for the next auction items, Fang Chen remained silent all the way. When it was near afternoon, it was finally time for the Demonic Suppression Wheel to appear.


    The Demonic Suppression Wheel was arc-shaped. It was crafted from unknown ck spiritual materials, with eight furious-looking Vajras carved on it, giving off a solemn and mysterious aura.


    Shopkeeper Lin sighed and said, "Everyone, this Demonic Suppression Wheel has been with us in the shop for many years. Those who are well-informed know that although it has eighty Soul Imprints, its previous owner had sealed forty of them, so the item cannot be utilized to its full potential. However, it''s still a peak-grade, yellow-rank treasure nheless. If someone can remove the seals ced on it, they will undoubtedly gain a powerful weapon!"


    "The starting bid is five thousand low-grade spirit stones, with increments of no less than two hundred each time. Please begin."


    The entire ce fell silent.


    The Qi Refining Realm and Foundation Building Realm cultivators assessed the Demonic Suppression Wheel and sensed the majestic aura brought forth from its Soul Imprints.


    Fang Chen ced his bid with a voice transmission.


    The Demonic Suppression Wheel''s price had already reached six thousand eight hundred low-grade spirit stones in a blink of an eye.


    Fang Chen frowned slightly. <em>Shopkeeper Lin is probably manipting the price.</em>


    Normally, a peak-grade, yellow-rank treasure with eighty Soul Imprints would sell for around eight to nine thousand spirit stones. However, this treasure had forty of its Soul Imprints sealed, so even if someone bought it, they''d only have gotten themselves a treasure that was on par with a high-grade, yellow-rank treasure. How could the bidding skyrocket to six thousand eight hundred in such a short time?


    Fang Chen increased his bid.


    <em>Seven thousand. Shopkeeper Lin, if the bidder offers a price higher than this, then you can directly let them have the Demonic Suppression Wheel.</em>


    As expected, Shopkeeper Lin announced that the Demonic Suppression Wheel had been sold off with the final bid at seven thousand low-grade spirit stones.


    The gaze of a Golden Core Realm cultivator turned dark as he scanned around. "Which fellow Daoist is so generous? They''re spending seven thousand low-grade spirit stones to buy a half-damaged treasure?"


    Another Golden Core Realm cultivator chuckled. "It''s not really half-damaged. At least, there are still forty Soul Imprints that are usable. There are definitely ways to unseal the remaining forty Soul Imprints."


    "Everyone, the auction ends here. There will be attendants to take you to separate rooms shortly. Please be patient and wait." Shopkeeper Lin smiled and continued, "Nextes the transaction phase, but each person needs to go to a separate room. This is to ensure that the buyers'' identities remain confidential."


    Fang Chen went to the quiet room where Shopkeeper Lin personally conducted the transaction. Fang Chen paid seven thousand low-grade spirit stones and received the Demonic Suppression Wheel. After making a quick calction, he still had less than a thousand he could give Mirror of the Universe


    Shopkeeper Lin earnestly advised, "Be careful, Daoist. The Demon Cloud Empire is not peaceful; there might be those who secretly covet what you have."


    "Nobody knows that I bought the Demonic Suppression Wheel. How could anyone covet it? If anyonees after me coveting it, wouldn''t be you fes from the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion?" replied Fang Chen.


    Shopkeeper Lin''s smile remained unchanged, even bing more amiable. "Daoist, you''re quite the joker. Our pavilion''s business spans the entire Hidden Cloud Region. We wouldn''t ruin our reputation for such trivial gains. Anyway, please be cautious. We hope you remain safe and return in the future."


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "Understood. Since there''s nothing else, I¡¯ll take my leave now."


    Shopkeeper Lin nodded with a smile. "In that case, I won''t see you off to avoid unnecessary attention."


    As Shopkeeper Lin watched Fang Chen leave, a hint of amusement shed in his eyes.


    Turning around, Shopkeeper Lin walked toward the depths of the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion.


    ***


    Fang Chen''s thoughts stirred. <em>Hidden Cloud Region¡­.</em>


    "Little Zhou, what does he mean by ''Hidden Cloud Region''?" Fang Chen asked Mirror of the Universe.


    "Hidden Cloud Region refers to the territory of the Azure Cloud Empire and the Hidden Immortal Empire. It includes 37 fifth-tier empires, 193 sixth-tier empires, 571 seventh-tier empires, nine 928 eighth-tier empires, and 3506 ninth-tier empires," exined Mirror of the Universe.


    Fang Chen was taken aback as a tinge of shock appeared in his eyes.


    The Hidden Immortal Empire should be a four-tier empire like the Azure Cloud Empire. How vast would thebined territory of the two fourth-tier empires be? It''s likely that Grand Xia was just a drop in the ocean within these territories. And that was just the Hidden Cloud Region. What about the third-tier empires, second-tier empires, and even first-tier empires? How vast were the territories they governed?


    "Little Zhou, does the Grand Wei Empire belong to the Azure Cloud Empire or the Hidden Immortal Empire?"


    "The Hidden Immortal Empire."


    "I think the goal of those cultivators from Spirit Blood Sect is not only to instigate war between Grand Qian and Grand Wei, but also to incite conflict between the Azure Point Empire and Hidden Cloud Empire. If these two empires really go to war, the thousands of empires under them will likely be involved. The everyday casualties would probably number in the millions...."

 Chapter 383: Demon Cloud Emperor

    Chapter 383: Demon Cloud Emperor


    Fang Chen sank into contemtion.


    "It seems the Spirit Blood Sect is making a hugely ambitious move this time."


    If things unfolded as he envisioned them, there would be no one to stop the Spirit Blood Sect from refining the Blood Spirit Pill in the Hidden Cloud Region.


    "Hey, Brother, what about the remaining five thousand low-grade spirit stones?" asked Mirror of the Universe


    "We''ll talk about it after leaving this ce," replied Fang Chen, sinking into the shadows.


    The moment Fang Chen sank into the shadows, the people the Heavenly Treasure Pavillion had sent out to survey him immediately lost track of him.


    "Where did he go!?"


    "We''ve lost him!"


    "Quick, report back to the manager!"At the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion.


    Shopkeeper Lin had a thin smile on his face. "It¡¯s fine, whatever happens next has nothing to do with us."


    After leaving the city, Fang Chen gave Mirror of the Universe five thousand low-grade spirit stones whilst they were in the shadows.


    The Mirror of the Universe devoured them all in one go and then said contentedly, "You''re in luck, Brother. This peak-grade, yellow-rank treasure is an immortal boat. It''smon knowledge that immortal boats require a lot of material to build, so their value is a lot higher than other treasures of the same grade."


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "An immortal boat? Not bad."


    It seemed that the ten thousand spirit stones hadn''t been spent in vain. The spiritual materials that were used to build immortal boats were far from ordinary treasures. That one time Little Sword devoured the Sea Dragon Sect''s warship and was fully satiated afterward was a testament to that.


    Mirror of the Universe provided Fang Chen with a map that detailed the whereabouts of the immortal boat.


    Fang Chen immediately started making his way over there. He was nning on having Little Sword devour the immortal boat.


    However, suddenly, the forty sealed Soul Imprints on the Demonic Suppression Wheel began to glow with a radiant light.


    A terrifying pressure suddenly descended down on Fang Chen. It was as if a mountain was pressing down on him.


    In an instant, Fang Chen''s figure fell out of the shadows.


    To his dismay, Fang Chen found that he couldn''t move at all. He was being restrained by some kind of force.


    At the same time, Fang Chen felt a gaze fall on him from the Demonic Suppression Wheel.


    An old voice sounded from the Demonic Suppression Wheel. "Junior, I thought you were at the Golden Core Realm, but turns out you''re just at the Qi Refining Realm. How did youe by so many spirit stones?"


    "May I ask who you are?" asked Fang Chen softly.


    A reply came from the Demonic Suppression Wheel. "I am the Demon Cloud Emperor."


    <em>Demon Cloud Emperor?</em>


    So the Demonic Suppression Wheel had always been the Demon Cloud Emperor''s treasure. The forty "sealed" Soul Imprints had been deliberately left unrefined? A bait to lure in cultivators to buy the Demonic Suppression Wheel?


    Fang Chen couldn''t help admiring the Demon Cloud Emperor.


    "How many cultivators have you deceived with this trick?" asked Fang Chen.


    "This is cultivation, Junior. It''s not deception. There are only so many resources in the world. If they''re scattered all around, how can my generation have a chance to reach the Nascent Soul Realm?" said the old voice. "Wait there. Someone wille to take you away."


    "Little Sword, devour it," said Fang Chen expressionlessly.


    The next moment, Little Sword began to devour the Demonic Suppression Wheel. The yellow rank peak treasure was like tofu in front of Little Sword, and with a bite, Little Sword chomped a hole away.


    Fang Chen felt the restraining force on him dwindle as Little Sword ate away at the Demonic Suppression Wheel/


    The Demon Cloud Emperor was shocked. Although he wasn''t there physically, he could clearly sense that his Demonic Suppression Wheel was being "refined"!


    Furthermore, he could sense that it wasn''t the Soul Imprints that were being refined, but the treasure itself!


    "Junior, what have you done to the Demonic Suppression Wheel?"


    Fang Chen remained silent.


    "Junior, stop immediately and I can spare your life!"


    Still, Fang Chen remained silent.


    "Junior, if you don''t stop now, when my men catch you, you''ll understand what it means to desire death but to not be able to have it!"


    As Little Sword ate more, the Demon Cloud Emperor''s voice began to be only heard every now and then.


    Fang Chen''s eyes gleamed with cold ridicule, however, he still didn''t respond.


    Before long, Little Swordpletely devoured about half of the Demonic Suppression Wheel.


    The force that was restraining Fang Chen visibly weakened, and the voice of the Demon Cloud Emperor became even more sporadic.


    "Juni...or... I will... personally... catch... you!"


    "You''re still threatening us?!" barked Little Sword.


    Fired up, Little Sword elerated the rate at which it consumed the Demonic Suppression Wheel. Its aura grew stronger, and its form began to alter, bing an almost three-foot-long green peak!


    This was a drastic change in appearancepared to the fish-like, little one-inch-sword that it had been just after hatching from its embryo.


    "The rate at which it¡¯s devouring the treasure is getting faster," murmured the Mirror of the Universe dreadfully.


    An hour passed.


    A figure flew in from the sky, and Fang Chen could already make out the person''s appearance. He had white hair, wore a ck robe, and was perched on a massive pale skull.


    Even if this person wasn''t the Demon Cloud Emperor, he had to be his subordinate at the very least. He emitted an aura that was at the grandpetition stage of the Foundation Building Realm.


    Fang Chen felt that he was quite simr to the Heavenly Southern Sect''s ancestor.


    When the person caught sight of Fang Chen, he immediately elerated toward him.


    Fang Chen stayed calm. Even though he was still being restrained by that force, it was clear that the Demonic Suppression Wheel was growing weaker and weaker under Little Sword''s devouring.


    "Junior¡­!"


    The figure on the skull was getting closer.


    The next moment, Fang Chen felt his body loosen, and the restraining forcepletely disappeared.


    Now he had two choices.


    He could either choose to take out the Foundation Building Realm cultivator rushing his way, or he could use the Shadow Buddha technique to escape and let Little Sword finish devouring the Demonic Suppression Wheel.


    Fang Chen chose the second option without much hesitation.


    The figure suddenly saw Fang Chen sink into the shadow before his very eyes.


    While he could have used the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture to potentially defeat his pursuer, it would have consumed his lifespan, which wasn''t worth it.


    "He''s gone!?"


    The approaching figure was startled. His eyes quickly turned serious. He took out a voice transmission talisman and ignited it. "<em>Your Majesty, the target has escaped and is nowhere to be found.</em>"


    "<em>This kid''s methods are quite strange. He''s destroying my Demonic Suppression Wheel. You must capture him before the Demonic Suppression Wheel ispletely destroyed.</em>"


    "Understood."


    The figure flipped his hand and revealed a ck metal object. He lightly sensed it and finally locked onto a direction before pursuing.


    He furrowed his brows slightly. "He''s pretty fast..."


    The speed at which the Demonic Suppression Wheel moved was quite unusual. The Demon Cloud Emperor had informed him that this kid was just in the Qi Refining Realm, but how could a Qi Refining Realm cultivator move so quickly?


    What he didn''t know was that Fang Chen''s speed when he was melded into the shadows wasparable to the Sword Transformation Technique. No, it was slightly faster, even.


    "He''s chasing me. That object in his hand seems to be made out of the same material as the Demonic Suppression Wheel. They seem to have a connection, allowing him to track my position," muttered Fang Chen.


    "But... he can''t see me."


    Fang Chen''s expression grew serious as he asked Little Sword. "Little Sword, how long until youpletely devour the Demonic Suppression Wheel?"


    Little Sword replied, "Little Chen, I''m a bit full now. I need to digest, so I''ll need some time."


    Fang Chen was taken aback. He suddenly noticed that Little Sword''s devouring speed had indeed slowed down and wasn¡¯t as fast as before.


    "Brother, this is a peak-grade, yellow-rank treasure after all. This kid hasn''t fully matured yet. It''ll probably take him a few days topletely devour such a treasure, "mented Mirror of the Universe.

 Chapter 384: Encirclement

    Chapter 384: Encirclement


    "How many days do you need?" asked Fang Chen, ncing at his pursuer.


    The situation hadn''t critically escted yet. Even though his pursuer was on his tail, he couldn''t find him, so his attacks wouldn''t be able to reach him; however, if they carried on like this for a few more days, things could grow problematic.


    The Shadow Buddha Technique consumed a lot of spiritual energy. Even though Fang Chen''s spiritual energy reserves were much deeper than that of an ordinary 12th stage Qi Refining Realm cultivator, he still had his limits. He will inevitably be forced out of the shadows for a while.


    Fang Chen didn''t fear a grandpletion stage Foundation Building Realm cultivator. What he feared was the personal intervention of the Demon Cloud Emperor. That was a Golden Core Realm cultivator, it would only take him a moment to kill Fang Chen.


    Profound White Divine Monarch was confused. "What kind of concealment technique is he using?"


    He could sense that he had caught up to the opponent, but he couldn''t find him.


    Was this a hidden technique? An Illusion technique? No, he didn''t believe he would fall for an illusion technique that a Qi Refining Realm cultivator employed. He simply couldn''t have that kind of ability.


    "Doesn''t matter."


    Profound White Divine Monarch pointed in a certain direction.A flying sword pierced through the air and plunged deeply into the ground before soaring into the sky a few breathster.


    Profound White Divine Monarch was sure that he had pierced where the opponent was; however, strangely his sword hadn''t managed to hit anything and only shed through the air.


    Profound White Divine Monarch''s brows locked.


    This was the first time he encountered such a situation. The opponent would''ve already managed to escape by now if he hadn''t had the spiritual material of the Demonic Suppression Wheel.


    "What kind of technique is so elusive?" Profound White Divine Monarch pondered incessantly.


    In the end, Profound White Divine Monarch decided to ignite a voice transmission talisman.


    ¡°<em>Your Majesty, I have failed in my task. Although I can sense the whereabouts of this individual, I cannot pinpoint his exact location.</em><em>His technique is extraordinary. If possible, I request your personal intervention.</em>"


    What Profound White Divine Monarch did was generally taboo, as it meant that he was admitting to his inability. However, every action he did was carefully considered. After all, if he really lost track of the enemy, he wouldn''t end up with just a few reprimands. Not only was the Demonic Suppression Wheel priceless, but the enemy''s technique held immense value as well!


    "<em>You continue following him for now. I am already on my way,</em>" transmitted the Demon Cloud Emperor.


    Profound White Divine Monarch immediately felt relieved. He had been following Fang Chen all along, and although the opponent''s movements were elusive like a ghost, he wasn''t fast, so it was quite easy for him to follow behind.


    Unknowingly, two days passed.


    Fang Chen was getting closer to his destination.


    Suddenly, he heard amotion from up ahead.


    "Senior Brother, you take the Snake Spirit Fruit and leave first. We''ll stay behind and hold the line. If Master heals his injuries, please tell him to avenge us!" said a young girl.


    The young girl was littered with sword words. Even her cheeks were cut open.


    The others with her were roughed up too. They were being besieged by several Foundation Building Realm cultivators, who were toying with them like cats ying with mice.


    A touch of sadness appeared on the young man''s face. "Junior Sister, Junior Brother. We can''t escape."


    ¡°Little girl, looks like your senior brother sees the situation clearly. If your group of little Qi Refining Realm cultivators manages to escape from us, where would we dare to show ourselves in the Demon Cloud Empire?¡±


    Another Foundation Building Realm cultivator sneered. "Hehehe, why don''t we give you a chance? If you can put on a great show for us, we''ll let you live. How about that?"


    He pointed at the young man and then at the young girl. "You two are the stars of the show."


    "You viins!" The young girl flushed red with anger. She would rather die than suffer this humiliation!


    The several Foundation Building cultivatorsughed arrogantly.


    "You''re not willing? Then we''ll have a good time with you two."


    In the next moment, a figure suddenly emerged from the void before a sh of silver passed by.


    The smiles on the faces of the Foundation building Realm cultivators froze.


    The figure disappeared again.


    In the sky, Profound White Divine Monarch frowned slightly. The opponent just appeared and killed several Foundation Building Realm cultivators on a whim. How could this be a Qi Refining Realm cultivator?


    Profound White Divine Monarch''s expression grew serious. "Something''s wrong here. This person is not a Qi Refining Realm cultivator at all, he is at least at the mid tote stage Foundation Building Realm."


    The Foundation Building Realm cultivators who had died were all in the early stage. He had to be at the mid tote-stage Foundation Building Realm if he had been able to kill them so easily like this. He couldn''t be at the same stage as them. It would''ve been impossible for him to kill them this easily if that was the case.


    A cold wind blew by as the Foundation Building Realm cultivators fell to the ground, blood gushing from their foreheads, mixed with white and pink.


    The young man, the young girl, and the several other cultivators all looked puzzled.


    What just happened?


    Did that figure just kill those demonic cultivators for them?


    "S-senior brother, we''re saved!?" said the young girl in disbelief.


    The young man nodded heavily. "Yes, we''ve been saved. If I''m not mistaken, the one who helped us should be the same person who killed the Divine Monarch outside Dragon Ridge City. He''s also that person who participated in the auction with us."


    "I thought we were going to die here...." muttered the young girl, relieved and grateful to make it out alive from this cmity.


    "We guessed correctly back then. This senior intentionally saved those three hundred boys and girls," said the young man, his eyes showing respect. He bowed in the direction where Fang Chen had disappeared.


    The young girl and others also bowed in respect.


    After a while, the young man lowered his voice and said, "Let''s take their belongings and leave this ce. There''s something wrong with that Heavenly Treasure Pavilion. They might have colluded with the demon cultivators here."


    "No way!"


    The young man sneered. "How else would they know we had the Snake Spirit Fruits? Let''s wait until Master''s injuries are healed, we''ll see how he handles this."


    "We must ask him to help us vent out our frustrations!"


    The young girl and others looked full of resentment.


    Several more days passed.


    Profound White Divine Monarch''s brow scrunched up. "I can''t sense him anymore. Does that mean that hepletely destroyed the Demonic Suppression Wheel?"


    The Demonic Suppression Wheel was a peak-grade, yellow-rank treasure. Even a Foundation Building Realm cultivator would find it very difficult to destroy it, right?


    Yet, strangely, this person had been able to destroy it in just a couple of days. This waspletely unheard of!


    "The Demonic Suppression Wheel has been destroyed," a voice sounded near Profound White Divine Monarch.


    Profound White Divine Monarch turned around and bowed without any hesitation.


    "I pay my respects to Your Majesty."


    The neer was an old man wearing a pair of straw sandals. He had hair like a crane, a youthful face, and a very kind and benevolent demeanor.


    The old man nodded gently. "This is where the aurast was. I believe this person shouldn''t have fled too far. I have deployed several Divine Monarchs toe out and search for him."


    Profound White Divine Monarch nodded slowly. "In that case, he won''t be escaping from your grasp."

 Chapter 385 Sword-shaped Immortal Vein

    <h4>Chapter 385 Sword-shaped Immortal Vein</h4>


    Fang Chen followed the directions Mirror of the Universe provided, and they led him right up to a dried-upke.


    Thiske seemed to have been dry for hundreds of years. The ground was covered in yellow mud. There were even skeletons of fish that appeared every once in a while.


    There was a huge crack resembling the mouth of an abyss not too far away. The crack asionally echoed with strange sounds. It was like the sound made when a gale of wind passed through a crack.


    "Is that peak-grade, yellow-rank treasure inside this crack?" Fang Chen''s eyes flickered as he approached the edge of the crack and peered down.


    The crack went very deep down.


    If the treasure that Mirror of the Universe mentioned was deep inside, why hadn''t other cultivators discovered it yet?


    "When the immortal boat descended from the sky, it collided with the bottom of theke, tearing open this crack. Theke dried up because all the water flowed into the crack," exined Mirror of the Universe.


    "In that case, why haven''t any cultivatorse to investigate? If they had, they should have been able to find the boat."


    "They wouldn''t be able to find it. This immortal boat has a special Soul Imprint. Unless they were at the Nascent Soul Realm, they''d find it difficult to trace its whereabouts.


    "Besides, its former owner has died inside the immortal boat. Before dying, he set up a forbidden formation around it. Anyone who approaches without permission will have their soul erased!"


    Fang Chen was surprised. "A peak-grade, yellow-rank immortal boat whose former owner was at the Nascent Soul Stage? He even erected a formation before he died? How will I get close to it then?"


    "There should still be a way to get it," said Mirror of the Universe tentatively.


    "Little Sword was right. This guy is a bit tricky," muttered Fang Chen.


    Fortunately, he didn''t want that treasure because he wanted to use it. The forbidden formation should be ineffective against Little Sword.


    Fang Chen''s divine soul split from his body and went down the crack.


    It didn''t take long before he saw an immortal boat emitting faint green light wedged into a cliff.


    There were a few skeletons near the immortal boat.


    Fang Chen''s thoughts stirred slightly as he slowly approached the immortal boat. "This Nascent Soul Realm forbidden formation should be ineffective against me, right?"


    If there was any danger, he would retreat immediately.


    However, even after Fang Chen entered the immortal boat, the formation wasn''t triggered. It evidently couldn''t do anything to his divine soul.


    In the center of the immortal boat, there was a figure sitting with its back facing him.


    Fang Chen moved forward with his divine soul. When he came close to the figure, he noticed that he was only a skeleton. This was likely the immortal boat''s former owner, the one Mirror of the Universe talked about.


    Fang Chen bowed respectfully. "Since you''ve already passed away, Senior, I will borrow this immortal boat for a while."


    Just as Fang Chen lowered his head, he saw a few lines of tiny words written in front of the skeleton.


    <i>What''s this?</i>


    Fang Chen examined the words carefully.


    <i>"I am Elder Du Fei of the Profound Seeking Sect in the Central Continent Empire. Because I exposed the evil deeds of the Spirit Blood Sect, I was ambushed by the Kunlong Battle General and the Jade Dragon Battle General.</i>


    <i>"Even though I broke free from the siege, I sumbed to my injuries and died. If anyonees here, please ry my words to the sect leader of the Profound Seeking Sect: the Grand Elder is an evil cultivator of the Spirit Blood Sect, plotting to obliterate humanity.</i>


    <i>"And if you are a cultivator of the Blood Spirit Sect, go to hell!"</i>


    Fang Chen''s brow scrunched up. The Kunlong Battle General and the Jade Dragon Battle General were the ones who had killed this Nascent Soul Realm cultivator?


    <i>The Profound Seeking Sect in Central Continent?</i>


    This sect shouldn''t be that famous back on the Central Continent; otherwise, a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator wouldn''t have been able to be an elder.


    "It seems that the Spirit Blood Sect has deep roots in Central Continent. There are Spirit Blood Sect cultivators in both small sects and big sects."


    Fang Chen''s expression turned serious. He already had a certain grasp over the Spirit Blood Sect''s cultivators'' beliefs from his conversation with Xia Xuanji. They use mortals, whom they consider inferior and useless lifeforms, to help them ascend to immortality. They believe that by doing this there would be more resources to go around.


    "Without this belief, it would be impossible to develop a sect to its current level relying solely on brute force."


    Fang Chen sighed lightly in his heart. The Spirit Blood Sect is much harder to deal with than he imagined.


    "Senior, you perished at the hands of the Spirit Blood Sect. I too do not agree with their beliefs. Whenever I encounter one of them, I''ll kill them. I''ll try to ry back your message when I arrive in the Central Continent. Now that we have a connection, I''ll use this immortal boat to enhance my cultivation."


    Fang Chen bowed once again.


    In the next moment, Little Sword received its cue and immediately flew into the crack and arrived in front of the immortal boat.


    Fang Chen nodded gently. "We can start now."


    Little Sword flew straight toward the immortal boat. However, halfway there, several heavenly thunders suddenly shot out from the immortal boat, sting toward Little Sword.


    Little Sword''s body shook a little, but itpletely ignored the power of the heavenly thunders. It easily reached the immortal boat before it started to devour it.


    In the blink of an eye, several days passed


    Little Sword form didn''t grow any longer and maintained its length of three feet. However, its aura was bing more and more deep, like an abyss.


    Fang Chen could clearly feel his own strength increasing as well, as his sword body was bing stronger. The twelve immortal veins within his body, like pirs of heaven and earth, became even more profound. Their golden radiance became more brilliant.


    Fang Chen''s eyes lit up with joy. "Looks like Little Sword was right. Once I ascend to the third rank of the sword body, the Gold of Supremacy can evolve into the Source of Authority."


    ording to <i>Introduction to the Three Thousand Daos</i>, Source of Authority was the best foundation one could have. Not that he''ll have this to act as the foundation, his future path would be a lot smoother.


    Fang Chen knew that innate talent wasn''t that good. He was even worse than Li Daoye in this aspect. Fang Chen being able to ascend to the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm in just a little over a year had nothing to do with his talent, it was all thanks to his profound and strange divine soul.


    However, once his immortal veins advanced to Source of Authority and he found a Foundation Building Pill for himself, he''d advance to the Foundation Building Realm, allowing histent talent to undergo aplete change.


    Foundation Building was an opportunity topletely reconstruct one''s innate talent.


    Meanwhile, figures were appearing near the crack.


    Fang Chen''s body was sitting upright in a groove within the crack, so they hadn''t found him yet.


    The Demon Cloud Emperor was standing quietly in the void. After searching almost a thousand miles around, he still hadn''t found that kid.


    He even began to suspect that the other party might have already left the Demon Cloud Empire.


    Profound White Divine Monarch arrived and bowed respectfully. "Your Majesty, the only remaining ce to search now is the dried-upke."


    "We should check the crack too. He could be hiding in there, though the chance is slim," said the Demon Cloud Emperor softly.


    "Understood!" Profound White Divine Monarch nodded immediately and turned to leave. He instructed his subordinates to search theke and sent people to investigate the crack.


    Fang Chen''d divines soul was standing close, and he had heard them. He couldn''t help but sigh. They were bound to find him sooner orter.


    Little Sword was now devouring thest bit of the immortal boat.


    Fang Chen had a premonition that once the immortal boat waspletely devoured, Little Sword would immediately advance.


    "A third-rank sword body coupled with the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture.... I wonder if I''ll be able to kill the Demon Cloud Emperor with one strike," pondered Fang Chen.


    Little Sword''s voice suddenly sounded, "Little Chen, I''ve finished devouring the boat. I''ll start advancing immediately, it should take about 15 minutes!"


    Fang Chen''s divine soul trembled slightly. He immediately withdrew his divine soul.


    Little Sword had long since fused with his physical body, and Fang Chen felt that his physical body was undergoing a special transformation. His body continued to grow stronger and his spiritual energy became more profound. However, the most significant change was in his twelve immortal veins, which were slowly transforming into a sword shape.


    Fang Chen was startled. "It isn''t Source of Authority!?"

 Chapter 386: This Sword

    Chapter 386: This Sword


    ording to the description provided in <em>Introduction to the Three Thousand Daos</em>, if a cultivator''s foundation was at the Source of Authority, the twelve immortal veins would resemble twelve coiling dragon pirs, with each immortal vein having a five-wed golden dragon.


    However, his immortal veins didn''t look like that at all!


    He could clearly see that the twelve immortal veins had taken the shape of swords. They were like twelve ancient and simple immortal swords, standing in the midst of the world within Fang Chen''s body.


    They were enveloped in a thick and majestic sword intent that had almost turned tangible, like mes billowing about his sword body.


    Fang Chen''s expression was somewhat solemn. "Did my immortal veins mutate because I am a sword cultivator? Or does it have something to do with Little Sword''s special origin?"


    The aura of the twelve immortal sword veins was obviously more majestic and powerful than Source of Authority!


    Fang Chen could clearly sense that his sword body was more than a hundred times stronger than before, indicating that they had clearly reached the third rank!


    The only thing that was out of Fang Chen''s expectations was the change in his immortal veins! However, Fang Chen didn''t know if this change was for the good or worse. He didn''t know how it''d affect his cultivation in theter stages of <em>Introduction to the Three Thousand Daos</em>


    Profound White Divine Monarch and his subordinates had already arrived at the crack by now and were preparing to conduct a search.Fang Chen slowly opened his eyes, and strong sword intent shed in his gray-white eyes before it disappeared.


    "Little Mirror, are you aware of the changes in my body?" asked Fang Chen inwardly.


    Mirror of the Universe responded, "Brother, your immortal veins have advanced. This type of immortal veins is rarely seen."


    "Only a high-rank sword cultivation technique and a specially crafted destiny flying sword can possibly condense the Immortal Sword Veins!


    "Are Immortal Sword Veins better than Source of Authority?"


    "Brother, can you give me a hundred low-grade spirit stones? This question requires spirit stones."


    Fang Chen casually threw a hundred low-grade spirit stones.


    After absorbing them, Mirror of the Universe spoke up."Source of Authority is a term used by the Three Thousand Dao Sect for immortal veins. In terms of rank, if wepare it to the Immortal Sword Veins, it''s half a level lower."


    "Half a level lower? Does that mean that the Immortal Sword Veins I have condensed are stronger than Source of Authority?" asked Fang Chen.


    If that was the case, then this was a good thing.


    Little Sword''s voice rang in Fang Chen''s ears. "Little Chen, I havepletely digested everything. Do you want me to see the ants above on their way?"


    Fang Chen''s gaze flickered slightly. He could use the Shadow Buddha Technique and quietly leave, avoiding a confrontation with the Demon Cloud Emperor and the others. But since he had just advanced to the third rank of the sword body, this opportunity presented a good chance to test his power.


    He''d have a more thorough understanding of his strength this way, which would allow him to handle Tong Hu and the others more easily when the trade conference rolled around.


    The voice of the Profound White Divine Monarch sounded. "You''ve been hiding here for quite some time, haven''t you?"


    He had brought a group of subordinates to surround the area and stared coldly at Fang Chen with a sneer on his face.


    "His Majesty is here personally. Will youe up with me, or shall I bring you up myself?" asked Profound White Divine Monarch while setting up measures around, seemingly wary of Fang Chen''s strange escape technique.


    Fang Chen chuckled lightly. "Lead the way."


    Profound White Divine Monarch was slightly surprised. <em>Why is he so calm? </em>


    After pondering for a moment, he snorted inwardly. It didn''t matter how many tricks he had up his sleeve, with the Demon Cloud Emperor here, it was impossible for him to escape.


    "Let''s go," said Profound White Divine Monarch indifferently.


    The moment the group walked out of the crevice, the Demon Cloud Emperor sensed them. He quickly arrived in front of everyone with a few flickers in the air.


    The divine monarchs nearby rushed over too and cast strange nces at Fang Chen.


    This young man was the one who had caused all this upheaval? He was the reason the Demon Cloud Emperor had mobilized dozens of Divine Monarchs?


    "Your Majesty, we''ve brought the person over," reported Profound White Divine Monarch respectfully.


    The Demon Cloud Emperor nodded lightly and looked at Fang Chen. "Junior, where is my Demon Suppression Wheel?"


    "It''s gone," replied Fang Chen honestly.


    <em>Gone?</em>


    A cold light shed in the Demon Cloud Emperor''s eyes.


    He stared at Fang Chen for a few moments, deep in thought. After a while, he said lightly, "I''ll give you a choice. If you tell me how you destroyed the Demonic Suppression Wheel, and also give me the technique that you used to evade Profound White Divine Monarch''s pursuit, I will offer you a chance to leave this ce alive"


    Fang Chen frowned. "Just a chance? Are there any other options?"


    "Junior, His Majesty giving you a chance to leave alive is already extremely gracious. If it were us, we would have taken your life."


    The surrounding Divine Monarchs chimed in andughed darkly.


    ¡°The Demon Cloud Empire is really full of evildoers.¡±


    "Evildoers?" The Demon Cloud Emperor''s eyes revealed a hint of cold mockery. "Since you''vee to the Demon Cloud Empire, you should know what kind of ce this is. We may be evildoers in your eyes, but in our eyes, you are nothing more than an ant."


    "Have you made a choice?"


    Fang Chen nodded. "Yes."


    Suddenly, terrifying and majestic sword intent surged from Fang Chen, with endless spiritual energy flowing.


    The invisible mes enveloping the twelve Immortal Sword Veins were raging wildly.


    The Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture, the first move!


    The surroundings were nketed with dazzling sword light. Profound White Divine Monarch and the rest of the Divine Monarchs felt their eyes sting with pain. Suddenly, tears of blood rolled down their eyes.


    They were shocked to the core. However, before they could react, a sword aura had traversed the sky, instantly engulfing the Demon Cloud Emperor.


    This sword was filled with a destructive aura!


    This sword was awe-inspiring, like a divinemand!


    This sword could cut through everything!


    The Demon Cloud Emperor looked down at his body.


    He saw his physical body disintegrating under an iparably powerful force. His hands, feet, and the luxurious clothes he wore couldn''t withstand this force.


    "You are a sword cultivator!" roared Demon Cloud Emperor roared angrily, his voice resounding across dozens of miles.


    <em>A sword cultivator!?</em>


    Profound White Divine Monarch and others couldn''t believe their ears. This young man was the legendary sword cultivator they had heard of but never seen?


    He was one of those lunatics?! Those battle maniacs?!


    Everyone felt as if time had slowed down as they watched the Demon Cloud Emperor disintegrate.


    "I will never die here!"


    The Demon Cloud Emperor''s eyes turned bloodshot. A terrifying power surged out of his body, attempting to resist Fang Chen''s sword intent. However, no matter what techniques he used, or no matter how much he circted his immense spiritual energy, he couldn''t stop his body from disintegrating and copsing.


    The crowd watched as the Demon Cloud Emperor took out a golden red pill. The pill released a terrifying and majestic power.


    However, under Fang Chen''s sword, this power was weak, akin to a helpless woman.


    Soon, even the red golden pill began to disintegrate.


    The Demon Cloud Emperor finally realized that he was doomed to die today and that there was no saving him from this.


    His heart was filled with unwillingness. If he had known that the person he had been chasing was a sword cultivator, he would never have underestimated him and been so careless. Unfortunately, it was all toote.


    A few breathster, the Demon Cloud Emperor turned into dust and disappeared.


    Fang Chen sighed softly in his heart. "As usual, not even his storage ring was spared. I destroyed everything with a single sword again."


    This move alone gave him a deep understanding of his strength. His offensive power had improved by leaps and bounds!

 Chapter 387: Discarded Pawn

    Chapter 387: Discarded Pawn


    Fang Chen found that he could use the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture a lot easier than before. It didn''t burn his lifespan anymore. However, his spiritual energy had still beenpletely exhausted. However, that was fine, it was recovering at an extremely fast rate.


    Fang Chen pondered for a moment. <em>My spiritual energy didn¡¯t increase by much. If before it was equivalent to a dozen or so cultivators at the 12th stage of Qi Refining Realm, it''s at most double that now. Little Sword''s advancement to the third rank mainly improved the power of the sword body.</em>


    His spiritual energy reserves weren''tparable to an ordinary mid stage Foundation Building Realm cultivator, so it wasn''t his reserves that supported his usage of the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture. It couldn''t have been the thing that allowed him to kill an early stage Golden Core Realm cultivator with no repercussions.


    Fang Chen''s eyes lit up. "Is it because of my immortal sword veins?"


    The power that sword strike held seemed to have stemmed from his twelve immortal sword veins. Not only was it terrifyingly powerful, it didn''t consume his lifespan this time. This was very likely due to his immortal sword veins. However, he still couldn''t confirm the exact reasons behind this at the moment.


    The area had fallenpletely silent.


    All of the Divine Monarch had been stunned silly when they saw the Demon Cloud Emperor being in with a single sword. As fear brewed in their hearts, their gazes turned toward Fang Chen with astonishment and dread.


    Profound White Divine Monarch''s face turned pale, feeling a bitter sensation in his throat. "Has he been using me all along to lure out the emperor?"


    If he wasn''t mistaken, the swordsman had been pretending all along. He had manipted him into dragging the emperor out. This was the only exnation; otherwise, why would such a powerful sword cultivator, who could easily y the Demon Cloud Emperor, y a game of cat-and-mouse with him?The Divine Monarchs stiffened. The tables had been turned in a split second. They, who had been the hunters, had now turned into prey.


    Fang Chen asked softly, "Since the Demon Cloud Emperor has already left on his way, gentlemen, would you like to apany him on his journey?"


    Profound White Divine Monarch was horrified.


    The faces of the other Divine Monarchs turned fearful.


    "The Hidden Cloud Ancestor is¡­ is behind the Demon Cloud Empire," said Profound White Divine Monarch, his voice hoarse. "Many cultivators have attempted to eradicate evil in the name of justice before, but they have all¡ª"


    "What does that have to do with me?" interrupted Fang Chen.


    A myriad of sword lights shot out.


    After a dozen or so breaths, Fang Chen put away several dozen storage rings. He then returned down to the crevice and collected Du Fei''s skeleton before quietly departing.


    The power of the earth surged, and within just a few breaths, all traces of the battle werepletely erased. There were no traces that the Demon Cloud Emperor as well as the other Divine Monarchs had ever been here.


    This event would remain an unsolved mystery for a long time. Everyone would be forever puzzled as to where Demon Cloud Emperor and hispanions had disappeared off to.


    ***


    In a quiet room in the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion.


    Shopkeeper Lin''s face was dark.


    His subordinates looked frightened, but they kept their heads down and their mouths shut.


    "What a bunch of useless trash. You couldn''t even handle a few juniors in the Qi Refining Realm? You couldn''t even retrieve the Snake Spirit Fruit?" shouted Shopkeeper Lin in anger, the veins on his forehead bulging with fury.


    "The Snake Spirit Fruit couldn''t be retrieved, and there''s no news from the Demon Cloud Emperor''s side. It''s getting harder and harder to do business these days," muttered Shopkeeper Lin.


    Suddenly, a servant walked in and whispered, "Shopkeeper Lin, there''s a guest who wants to see you."


    "Who are they? Why do they want to see me?" asked Shopkeeper Lin.


    Impatient, Shoperkeep Lin walked out before the servant could respond. "Forget it, I''ll go out and see for myself."


    In the bustling hall, Shopkeeper Lin approached the figure, who had his back facing him.


    "I heard you have a big deal to discuss with me, Sir?"


    Fang Chen turned to look at Shopkeeper Lin and nodded lightly. "It indeed is a big deal. You''d better clear the scene."


    Shopkeeper Lin couldn''t believe his eyes..


    "It''s you!?"


    <em>Why is he here? He should be being chased around by the Demon Cloud Emperor''s men! Why would he appear here!?</em>


    Trying to calm himself down, Shopkeeper Lin forced a smile on his face. "So it''s you, esteemed guest. What would you like to buy this time? Just let us know and we''ll fulfill all your needs."


    "I said it''s a big deal. You''d better clear the scene," said Fang Chen softly.


    "A big deal?" Shopkeeper Lin''s expression turned quizzical. After a moment, he forced a smile and said, "Heavenly Treasure Pavilion is open for business. How can we clear the scene for no reason? Wouldn''t that ruin our reputation?"


    Fang Chen replied with a smile. "This deal is rted to the Demon Cloud Emperor. You can''t call the shots on this one, you might need to bring out your manager"


    Shopkeeper Lin felt a chill in his heart. He was so shocked he didn''t know what to do with his face. After a while, he shouted at his subordinates, "Clear the scene! We''re closed for the day!"


    "Yes!"


    The staff of Heavenly Treasure Pavilion immediately started clearing the scene. Although some cultivators grumbled, no one dared to cause trouble and everyone left eventually.


    Soon, the bustling Heavenly Treasure Pavilion became extremely quiet with its gates tightly closed.


    Shopkeeper Lin smiled warmly and said, "Could you please exin in detail? I didn¡¯t quite catch what you said. How is this big deal rted to the Demon Cloud Emperor? And how do you know about our pavilion¡¯s manager?"


    "You don''t have a say in this. Bring out your manager," replied Fang Chen with a smile.


    At that moment, a figure made his way over.


    He had a strong and majestic stature. He had the head of a liger and the body of a man. There was a faint but noticeable aura of spiritual energy around him as he walked.


    Everyone, including Shopkeeper Lin, felt very pressured the moment the man appeared.


    "Manager!"


    Shopkeeper Lin and his subordinates greeted the neer respectfully.


    The manager remained silent, his gaze calmly fixed on Fang Chen. "Why are you looking for me?"


    Fang Chen''s brow furrowed slightly. "A puppet?"


    The manager''s aura wasn''t how it used to be. Even though he had a strong aura and could easily pass for a Golden Core Realm cultivator at first nce, Fang Chen was able to sense that something was off with his aura.


    Upon closer inspection, Fang Chen realized that this was just a puppet.


    The puppet manager sneered. "The Demon Cloud Emperor is my partner and I''m naturally aware of his death. The Hidden Cloud Ancestor knows about this too. He valued the Demon Cloud Emperor greatly. You''ve killed one of his trusted generals, so you''ve provoked his personal ire. He''s out for you.


    "I thought you wouldn''t dare toe here to find me, but it seems you did. Unfortunately for you, you had been able to kill the Demon Cloud Emperor, but you won''t be able to kill me. My true self has long since left the Demon Cloud Empire."


    Fang Chen remained quite calm, but Shopkeeper Lin and the others had already lost color in their faces as they stared nkly at the puppet.


    They had be discarded pawns!


    The puppet chuckled eerily. "I believe we will meet again soon. For now... if I were you, I would escape from the Demon Cloud Empire as soon as possible. The Hidden Cloud Ancestor is already on his way here."


    A sh of sword light appeared and disappeared in an instant.


    The next moment, the puppet instantly split into five pieces. Then, a green light flickered on the corpse and turned into several pieces of wood in front of everyone¡¯s eyes.

 Chapter 388: Vajra Bodhi

    Chapter 388: Vajra Bodhi


    "Looks like you''ve been abandoned, Shopkeeper Lin."


    Fang Chen looked at Shopkeeper Lin with a faint smile.


    Fang Chen had already deduced that the manager might possess an item simr to a soulmp that was linked to the Demon Cloud Emperor. This way, as long as something happened to the Demon Cloud Emperor, the manager would immediately know.


    Fang Chen was able to infer from this that the coboration between the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion and the Demon Cloud Emperor was much closer than he had imagined. The rtionship between them might not have been purely business-based, it could''ve leaned more toward friendship.


    As for the manager''s im that the Hidden Cloud Ancestor was on his way, Fang Chen dismissed it as nonsense. How could a mere Golden Core Realm cultivator predict the movements of a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator?


    Fang Chen saw the manager''s attempt to confuse him at a nce. He had been trying to provoke him into leaving the Demon Cloud Empire early.


    Shopkeeper Lin tried to remain calm, forcing a smile. "Daoist, I think there might be a misunderstanding here. Please let me exin¡­."


    Fang Chen shook his head lightly. "No, you engage in a sketchy business. You''ve also been in cahoots with the Demon Cloud Emperor. There''s nothing to exin."


    Fear gripped Shopkeeper Lin''s heart. "I-I¡­."The fact that Fang Chen made his way over here right after killing the Demon Cloud Emperor meant that he was here to kill the manager.


    Shopkeeper Lin understood that the manager had to have run away because he feared Fang Chen. So in what realm could a Foundation Building Realm cultivator like him resist such a powerful opponent?


    Shopkeeper Lin''s face was filled with despair.


    "Where are you keeping the spirit stones you obtained from the auction?" asked Fang Chen calmly.


    Shopkeeper Lin smiled bitterly and said, ¡°The manager keeps these valuables on him.¡±


    Fang Chen chuckled lightly. "I see."


    He had already used his divine soul to search the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion. Apart from low-grade, yellow-rank treasures, spiritual materials, and the pills in the main hall, there was nothing especially valuable. The manager had to have already made ns to escape, so he took most of the valuable items with him.


    Fang Chen couldn''t help but admire the manager''s decisiveness. If he had hesitated and decided to stay and avenge the Demon Cloud Emperor, he wouldn''t have lived to see another day. Not only had he managed to escape death, but he also managed to preserve the Heavenly Treasure Pavillion''s treasures.


    Fang Chen sighed. "Anyone who managed to cultivate up to the Golden Core Realm is truly a cunning fox."


    Fang Chen casually pocketed all the items in the main hall into his storage ring.


    Shopkeeper Lin suddenly spoke up. "Daoist, please spare my life. I have a treasure to offer to you. It¡¯s extremely valuable!"


    Fang Chen smiled. "Tell me about it."


    Shopkeeper Lin took in a deep breath before whispering, "Fifty miles from here, there is a spiritual fruit called the Vajra Bodhi. It''s a low-grade, profound-rank spiritual fruit. It''s much more valuable than a peak-grade, yellow-rank spiritual treasure!"


    Fang Chen was surprised. "A low-grade, profound-rank spiritual fruit?"


    This was the first time he heard anyone talk about a low-grade, profound-rank spiritual fruit. He never heard about something like this before, whether that was in the me Empire, Qinghu Empire, or Great Qian Empire. It almost seemed like these kinds of spiritual items had long disappeared from the world.


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. ¡°Go on.¡±


    Fang Chen quietly asked Mirror of the Universe, ¡°<em>Little Mirror, what is the Vajra Bodhi fruit? What are its effects and how valuable is it</em>?¡±


    ¡°<em>This information doesn''t require spirit stones. The Vajra Bodhi is a low-grade, profound-rank spiritual fruit. It can be used for alchemy and artifact refining. This fruit is extremely tough, so if you can integrate it into a treasure, it will enhance said treasure. You could also choose to consume it directly. If a mortal consumes it, he''ll immediately be propelled to the fourth level of the Heaven Profound Stage. If a cultivator consumes it, then with the help of a body refining technique, their physical strength can be greatly increased.</em>"


    Fang Chen''s eyes lit up slightly. That fruit was really extraordinary.


    The fourth level of the Heaven Profound Stage corresponded to the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm. Martial artists at that level could threaten cultivators. For mortals to gain such power right after consuming the Vajra Bodhi fruit showed how miraculous it was!


    Shopkeeper Lin continued. ¡°The reason the manager came down this time was because of this fruit.¡±


    Fang Chen smiled faintly. So when the manager tried to scare him away, he was doing it to prevent him from learning about the Vajra Bodhi fruit.


    <em>If I were him, would I leave before the fruit ripened?</em> Fang Chen thought with a hint of amusement in his eyes. There was no doubt that the manager was still in the empire.


    ¡°<em>By the way, Brother, the benefits of the Vajra Bodhi are even greater for demon cultivators, as they naturally lean toward body refinement,</em>¡± added Mirror of the Universe.


    Fang Chen chuckled lightly. ¡°Shopkeeper Lin, ording to what you''re saying, your boss treasures this fruit a lot. So, howe you''re still alive despite knowing of its existence?"


    Shopkeeper Lin whispered, ¡°To be honest, I stumbled upon this Vajra Bodhi by chance. I presented it to the manager because, deep down, I knew that I wasn''t capable enough to protect a treasure like this. I''ve been taking care of this fruit for the manager for a long time.¡±


    Fang Chen understood. The reason the manager didn''t silence Shopkeeper Lin was that he was still hopeful that the Hidden Cloud Ancestors¡¯ reputation alone would deter Shopkeeper Lin from betraying him. This way, he wouldn''t need to kill one of his trusted subordinates.


    ¡°Sir, is this information enough to buy me my life?¡±


    Shopkeeper Lin quietly assessed Fang Chen''s expression. Fang Chen''s silence was heard to read into.


    Fang Chen smiled. ¡°You should''ve guessed by now that you''re boss would beying in wait near the Vajra Bodhi."


    Shopkeeper Lin''s expression changed into one of shock. He hadn''t expected Fang Chen to piece it all together so quickly.


    Indeed!


    From the moment he realized he had been abandoned, he had guessed where the manager would be hiding. There was no way the manager would give up the Vajra Bodhi. This kind of fruit was extremely beneficial for demon cultivators!


    He thought that with this piece of information, perhaps he could save his own life and at the same time, lead Fang Chen to chase after the manager. If the manager died, it would''ve been considered as him taking revenge. If they both suffered losses, the Vajra Bodhi would be his to keep.


    Not to mention that the countless resources the manager had on his person would all fall into his hands! The worst-case scenario would be if the manager killed this person in front of him instead. If that happened, the only option he would have left would be to flee the empire.


    Shopkeeper Lin forced a smile. "You misunderstand me... After your reminder, I''ve carefully considered it, and it''s indeed possible that the manager is near the Vajra Bodhi. As long as you''re willing to swear, I''ll tell you where it is."


    Fang Chen chuckled. "You have no choice. Either you speak or die. You can only gamble on my credibility."


    Shopkeeper Lin''s face turned a bit ugly. Fang Chen wasn''t even willing to swear an oath! What should he do then? Not speak and face certain death? Or speak and have a slim chance of survival?


    Shopkeeper Lin gritted his teeth and whispered the location to Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen instructed Little Sword to keep an eye on Shopkeeper Lin and the others while he projected his divine soul toward the location he mentioned.

 Chapter 389: Bountiful Harvest

    <h4>Chapter 389: Bountiful Harvest</h4>


    In the tranquil valley, a formation was operating, forming a barrier that enveloped the entire valley. From the outside, the valley appeared ordinary. Even if wild beasts identally wandered in, they would be guided by a force to leave in another direction. However, the illusionary effect created by the formation had no effect on Fang Chen''s divine soul


    A human figure with a lion''s head was standing quietly in front of a huge ancient tree. Hanging on one of the branches of this tree was a golden fruit, the Vajra Bodhi.


    "Calcting the time, it will take three days at the fastest, and fifteen days at most," muttered the manager softly. His eyes were shing with greed and desire as he looked at the Vajra Bodhi.


    "Third brother got really unlucky to meet such an unknown enemy. Fortunately, he left a soulmp by my side just in case. Thanks to my timely response, Eldest Brother has already received the message and will arrive in the Demon Cloud Empire soon. With his help, we can surely take the head of that cultivator," murmured the manager chillingly.


    "Third brother, you can rest assured. Eldest Brother and I will avenge you, " he murmured, his eyes flickering with killing intent as he looked toward the direction of the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion.


    However, there was a hint of worry in his eyes as he realized that he had made a mistake. Besides himself, Shopkeeper Lin also knew about where the fruit was. He should''ve made sure he silenced him before he left. This was a slip-up on his end.


    "Before the puppet was destroyed, I deliberately mocked him, so it''s possible that the opponent has already massacred all those in the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion and didn''te to know about this ce. It doesn''t matter even if that guy betrayed me. I am a Golden Core Realm cultivator, so I can hold this formation up for a few days. I''ll hold out until the Vajra Bodhi ripens, then I can leave freely. Or I could wait for the eldest brother to arrive and take that cultivator''s head."


    A faint smile appeared on the manager¡¯s face as he waited in front of the ancient tree patiently.


    Fang Chen was standing in the void.


    <i>Third brother? Eldest brother? Demon Cloud Emperor and this demon cultivator are sworn brothers. They seem to have an eldest brother, too, who should also be a Golden Core Realm cultivator.</i>


    Fortunately, he had confirmed his opponent''s whereabouts. He could deal with this demonic cultivator today.


    As for that eldest brother, if he didn''te, so be it. If he arrived before the Vajra Bodhi ripened, he would also be dealt with. With the Shadow Shadow Buddha Technique as his trump card, Fang Chen had enough control over the situation.


    ***


    Shopkeeper Lin stared fixedly at Fang Chen. He didn''t dare move, as a flying sword was pointed at his forehead. He had no doubt that if he made any sudden movements, he would likely meet his end right there.


    Shopkeeper Lin felt anxious.


    <i>Is he thinking it over? Will he go back on his word?</i>


    His subordinates were pale-faced too. They too did not dare make any rash moves.


    Fang Chen opened his eyes.


    He retracted Little Sword, smiled at Shopkeeper Lin, and said, "You may leave."


    He then turned and left the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion, blending into the shadows and disappearing.


    Shopkeeper Lin stared nkly as Fang Chen vanished right before his eyes. It took him several moments to snap out of his daze.


    ¡°He really didn''t kill me?!¡±


    "Shopkeeper Lin, what should we do next?" one of his subordinates asked in a low voice.


    "What should we do? We''ll naturally leave this ce first and see how the situation develops," Shopkeeper Lin muttered to himself. Then, he struck out with a palm, instantly killing the subordinate who had spoken.


    The people around were stunned. After the shock subsided, they began to flee.


    "Shopkeeper Lin?!"


    A slight smile appeared on Shopkeeper Lin''s lips. "You witnessed me betraying the manager. How can I let you live?"


    Before long, Shopkeeper Lin walked out of the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion alone.


    He would now wait quietly for news.


    ***


    Fang Chen returned to the valley.


    This formation could even hold off a Golden Core Realm cultivator for a while. However, in Fang Chen''s eyes, it was full of ws. He was easily able to enter the valley without alerting the manager to his intrusion.


    The manager had no idea that there was someone standing in the shadows, ready to strike.


    <i>Puchi!</i>


    A sword pierced through the back of the manager''s head and came out of his forehead.


    "<i>Cough!</i>"


    A strange sound came from the manager''s throat.


    Fang Chen withdrew Little Sword and then thrust it back into the manager''s heart, creating multiple holes in his body within moments. Even the Golden Core in his abdomen was shattered by the sword.


    The life force of demon cultivators was terrifyingly strong; even after being repeatedly stabbed by Fang Chen hundreds of times, the manager did not perish on the spot. With hisst bit of strength, he twisted his body to look back at Fang Chen, staring at him with bitterness, confusion, and resentment.


    "How...?" he asked.


    With another push, Fang Chen struck again.


    The sword plunged into the manager''s skull, severing any hope for him to survive.


    He had died puzzled. How had Fang Chen been able to silently pass through his formation without him noticing? How had he been able to quietly creep up behind him?


    And what he found most difficult to swallow was how fragile his physical body was in front of Fang Chen''s de. This had been the aspect he was most confident in, yet it had seemed as though it was nothing but tofu at that critical moment.


    His assant... hadn''t even used much spiritual energy! He had relied purely on the techniques of an ordinary martial artist to ughter him up close!


    All of the manager''s questions would apany him to his grave, never to be resolved.


    Fang Chen gazed at the lifeless body and muttered, "Golden Core Realm cultivators... are not as invincible as they im. If a skilled martial artist can get near them and break through their defenses, even they could kill them."


    Throughout the encounter, Fang Chen used very limited spiritual energy. He had killed a Golden Core Realm cultivator almost effortlessly, relying only on the Shadow Buddha and the sharpness of Little Sword. He hadn''t even needed to use the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture.


    Fang Chen''s eyes drifted toward one of the manager''s fingers, where he saw a ck storage ring.


    Sliding the ring off, Fang began to refine it.


    Half a dayter, Fang Chen sessfully refined the storage ring. He was astonished by the vast amount of resources inside.


    He could easily tell with a nce that there were at least seventy thousand spirit stones inside! These were likely all the profits the manager had umted over the years from this shady business he pulled.


    Apart from the spirit stones, there were also over a dozen mid-grade, yellow-rank treasures and several high-grade, yellow-rank treasures. There were many spiritual materials, pills, and spiritual fruits inside too. Fang Chen didn''t know their specific value, but he was sure that this was a bountiful harvest.


    Fang Chen also found a jade slip among the piles of stuff.


    After infusing it with spiritual energy, he discovered that it contained a formation inheritance. Inside were records of more than ten different formations, each with its own unique effects, ranging from weak to strong. One of the formations was precisely the one surrounding this valley.

 Chapter 390 Formation Inheritance

    <h4>Chapter 390 Formation Inheritance</h4>


    "The Dao of Formations. Using weakness to ovee strength; harnessing the essence of heaven and earth''s spiritual energy; emphasizing the support of the five elements and the interconnectedness of all things..."


    "Low-grade, yellow-rank me Formation; it requires three grams of Qing Yao Soil, One Tael of Ice Crystal, and ten pieces of low-grade spirit stones. They are to be positioned in the Nine Extremes of the Universe...."


    "This formation doesn''t initially seem that powerful; however, when it''s attacked, a sea of mes will surge. Qi Refining cultivators will find it difficult to defend against it."


    "Middle-grade, yellow-rank Ghost Sword Formation. The materials required for the formation core are...."


    "High-grade, yellow-rank Green Sky Mountain Protection Grand Formation. The materials required for the formation core are...."


    By the time an hour had passed, Fang Chen had already memorized the contents of the jade slip. The various formations had myriad effects, and some of them could even be mixed together to achieve results that weren''t confined to a simple "one plus one" in terms of strength.


    The formation the manager had set up was the high-grade, yellow-rank Green Sky Mountain Protection Grand Formation. The formation core required a lot of materials, so it was quiteplicated to set up. It also required five hundred to a thousand pieces of low-grade spirit stones to run. This formation could confuse, obstruct, and even directly attack. It was no wonder the manager had died with so many doubts.


    In fact, the formation could even pose some trouble to Golden Core Realm cultivators. Ordinary cultivators would find it difficult to perceive the ws in the formation, but Fang Chen¡¯s divine soul could see through everything.


    <i>These formations are priceless. I reckon that ordinary cultivation families or sects would be willing to spend twenty to thirty thousand low-grade spirit stones just to obtain it.</i>


    The formation inheritance included, the rest of the high-grade, mid-grade, and yellow-rank treasures as well as the pills and spiritual materials all added up to a whopping seventy thousand low-grade spirit stones.


    He had made over a hundred thousand spirit stones from this trip. It could be said that Fang Chen had grown rich overnight. He could even begin to prepare the necessary treasures and spiritual materials required for Little Sword''s breakthrough to the fourth rank.


    Fang Chen handed over all the treasures he obtained to Little Sword and used his spare time to carefully study the formation inheritance. He also rifled through the storage ring and found a few formation core materials to practice with.


    Several dayster.


    Fang Chen¡¯s divine soul was standing in the sky. The Green Sky Mountain Protection Grand Formation set up by the manager was nowpletely different from before. While he couldn''t repair the ws in the formation, he could identify where they were andpensate for them byyering otherpatible formations.


    Fang Chen had set up six mid-grade formations beneath the Green Sky Mountain Protection Grand Formation. These formations almost perfectly concealed the ws of the Green Sky Mountain Protection, indirectly making it moreplete. Although its power hadn''t increased, its defensive capabilities had improved significantly.


    However, it had to be said that the entire process hadn''t been smooth sailing. Setting up auxiliary formations within a formation required precise techniques and timing. In fact, Fang Chen had failed several times in setting up the formations, wasting spiritual materials and depleting a considerable amount of his spiritual energy.


    However, Fang Chen''s spiritual energy recovered quickly, and he continued to practice. In just a few days, he became increasingly proficient in setting up some of the formations.


    ¡°Next, I''ll wait for the Vajra Bodhi to ripen so I can pluck it. I''ll then leave the Demon Cloud Empire.¡±


    Fang Chen recalled his divine soul. He sat in front of the ancient tree and took out the Illusion Talisman''s materials before he started to craft.


    Fang Chen practiced the Five Element Controlling Technique whilst he was crafting. As he worked, elemental energy surged and dissipated around him.


    ***


    "Why aren''t there any movements?"


    Shopkeeper Lin was hiding in the shadows a few miles away from the valley, observing quietly. He was visibly confused.


    He knew there was a grand formation here but deliberately didn''t inform that cultivator. Logically speaking, that cultivator should either be attacking the formation right now or have already broken through it. However, he had been watching for a few days yet he hadn''t detected any ripples in the formation or any signs of battle.


    "This doesn''t feel right, not one bit. Could it be that he couldn''t break the formation and left the empire already?" muttered Shopkeeper Lin.


    If the manager didn''t die, he would be in for a whole lot of trouble.


    He had been worried that the manager would find out about his betrayal, so decided to stay here and observe the situation.


    "Are you Lin Mu?" A supremely indifferent voice rang in Shopkeeper Lin''s ears.


    Shopkeeper Lin froze.


    Cold sweat dripped down his back and forehead. He turned his neck stiffly to look toward his back right and saw a gloomy-looking old man standing there.


    The man was dressed in a green robe, with a withered face and prominent cheekbones. His narrow eyes resembled those of a venomous snake, asionally shing with a cruel light.


    Shopkeeper Lin forced a smile. ¡°Senior, I am indeed Lin Mu. May I ask who you are...?¡±


    "I am your manager''s eldest brother, the fourth disciple under themand of Hidden Cloud Ancestor¡ªQi You.".


    <i>The manager has a brother? </i>


    Shopkeeper Lin was surprised, but what shocked him even more was that this person was a disciple of Hidden Cloud Ancestor! That was a well-known Nascent Soul Realm powerhouse in the Hidden Cloud Region!


    Shopkeeper Lin repressed his shock and anxiously said, "Senior Qi, the manager is in danger!"


    Qi You nodded lightly, his gaze turning toward the valley. "He isn''t just in danger, he is already dead."


    Shopkeeper Lin was dumbfounded. "What!?"


    <i>The manager is dead? And he had died without a sound? There wasn''t even a trace of damage to the formation! How was that possible?!</i>


    "The fact that you stayed here proves your loyalty to Second Brother. No wonder he mentioned you several times to me," said Qi You lightly.


    Shopkeeper Lin suddenly felt relieved. It was a good thing the other party didn''t know about his betrayal. If he could somehow establish a rtionship with this person, he would be able to dominate the entire Hidden Cloud Region!


    Shopkeeper Lin''s expression turned emotional, his eyes turning red. "Senior Qi You, are you saying that the manager has died? That''s impossible...."


    "Second Brother''s soulmp has been extinguished, there¡¯s no doubt he¡¯s dead. The person who killed him is most likely still waiting for the Vajra Bodhi to ripen," Qi You said with a dark expression. "Your Second Brother was too foolish. He gave up his life for the sake of worldly possessions."


    "Both my sworn brothers have died at the hands of this person. I am determined to avenge this grudge. Second Brother said you have a deep understanding of this formation, do you know how to enter it?"


    Shopkeeper Lin nodded hurriedly. "Yes, I was originally responsible for taking care of the Vajra Bodhi, so I am very familiar with this formation."


    Shopkeeper Lin couldn''t help but feel perplexed. Was that "Third Brother" he mentioned the Demon Cloud Emperor?


    He never knew that the manager and the Demon Cloud Emperor had had such a rtionship.


    Qi You said in a grim tone, "That''s good. Lead me into the valley and don''t attract that person''s attention. I want to see who he really is."


    Even though Qi You was in the mid stage of the Golden Core Realm, he did not dare to act rashly. After all, the other party had easily killed two early-stage Golden Core Realm cultivators. He had to evaluate his opponent''s strengths and weaknesses before he could decide on his next move.

 Chapter 391: Breaking the Formation

    <h4>Chapter 391: Breaking the Formation</h4>


    Shopkeeper Lin clenched his teeth as determination shed in his eyes. "Senior Qi You, please rest assured, we will definitely be able to enter the valley quietly. As long as I can avenge the manager, I''ll do my best to help you!"


    "My second brother did not nurture you in vain. It''s just a pity that he chose the wrong allegiance. If he hadn''t worked for the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion in the past, he wouldn¡¯t have ended up like this."


    Qi You nodded slightly, appreciation in his eyes. He decided that once this matter was settled, he would take Shopkeeper Lin into his service. He would take over the business in Demon Cloud Empire himself. He could not let his second and third brothers die in vain and let others benefit from their expanse.


    In front of the ancient tree in the valley, Fang Chenpleted thest stroke, and an Illusion Talisman was thus created. Counting the four that he had made previously, he now had five Illusion Talismans.


    "Senior, I remember we came in from this side. This doesn''t look right. No matter, let me think carefully; it shouldn¡¯t be wrong."


    Not far from Fang Chen, Shopkeeper Lin and Qi You were walking in circles.


    Shopkeeper Lin''s forehead had already started sweating profusely in anxiety.


    What Shopkeeper Lin did not know was that Fang Chen had already blocked the life gate of the Green Sky Mountain Protection Grand Formation. It was now impossible to pass through the formation using the old way.


    Fang Chen''s divine soul left his body and quietly observed the two men. Qi You¡¯s aura was clearly much more profound than that of the likes of Tong Hu. He was even stronger than Jue Feichen, Fang Wanli, and Princess Shenlong. And those three were on the cusp of breaking through to the mid stage of the Golden Core Realm.


    Fang Chen''s gaze turned slightly more solemn. "This one is at the mid stage of the Golden Core Realm."


    Fang Chen could tell from his aura alone that he could easily deal with a dozen early stage Golden Core Realm cultivators. One would be hard-pressed to find a dozen early stage Golden Core Realm cultivators even in a fifth-tier empire like Great Qian.


    The emperor of the Demon Cloud Empire, which was even less impressive than Great Qian, was only at the early stage of the Golden Core Realm.


    Theoretically, it was rare for a dozen early stage Golden Core Realm cultivators to face off against a mid stage Golden Core Realm cultivator. It was practically impossible to assemble such a team.


    "Lin Mu, have you found the way?" Qi You''s expression was somber as he slowly spoke.


    Shopkeeper Lin, who was already sweating buckets, felt even more anxious under Qi You''s impatience and replied in a hurry, "Senior Qi, please wait just a bit longer. Let me have another look, just a bit more..."


    "There''s no need." Qi You''s voice was cold. "The formation has been tampered with. That''s why you can''t find the life gate."


    Shopkeeper Lin inhaled sharply. "Senior Qi, you mean...?"


    "Now I finally understand why he could enter the valley and kill my second brother. This person is a master of formations." Qi You''s gaze seemed to flicker with a cold spark as he nced around. "He might be watching us right now."


    Shopkeeper Lin was terrified. If he was really watching them, wouldn''t that mean they had been exposed?


    Qi You said tly, "Why don''t you deactivate the formation and let us talk face-to-face? You killed my second and third brothers, so you owe me an exnation."


    Fang Chen didn''t say anything and only watched them silently.


    Qi You waited for a moment before letting out a coldugh. In the next moment, a vast wave of spiritual energy surged out from him


    The power of the five elements around him became vtile as nine fire dragons, each hundreds of meters long, rose up, encircling the entire valley. The lush valley was instantly bathed in fiery light. The valley seemed to have been submerged into a zing furnace.


    Qi You said nonchntly, "If you do not show yourself now, I will melt down this ce along with you."


    Shopkeeper Lin hastily took cover behind Qi you, fearing that he''d get caught up in the fire.


    <i>If he isn''t willing to show himself, then that could only mean one thing, </i>Shopkeeper Lin thought to himself.


    Qi You''s strength was definitely far superior to the manager. It had to be that the other party knew that he wasn''t a match for the Qi You, that was why he didn''t dare show himself.


    A smirk flickered across Shopkeeper Lin''s eyes. "Excellent! The manager is dead, and that person will die at the hands of Senior Qi You. In the future, Senior Qi You will definitely be the one running the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion, and I...."


    He naturally expected to rise even higher than before!


    Fang Chen remained calm.


    The opponent¡¯s mastery over the maniption of the five elements was really much better than the average Golden Core Realm cultivator. The nine dragons, each hundreds of meters long, possessed formidable power. They had already begun refining the Green Sky Mountain Protection Grand Formation.


    Fortunately, this was a high-grade, yellow-rank high formation that had been reinforced with six auxiliary formations. It was nearly impossible for his opponent to break through it in a short time using brute force.


    Fang Chen nced at the Vajra Bodhi. "Five days. With how hard he''s going at the formation, I have five more days."


    The timing was just perfect, the fruit should mature in five days.


    The days passed, and as Fang Chen still did not respond or show himself, Qi You stopped speaking and focused on refining the Green Sky Mountain Protection Grand Formation. Over several days, several parts of the formation had been refined.


    The scenery around them was beginning to change.


    Qi You shed a cold smile and said, "I will soonpletely refine this formation. If you made up your mind now toe out and talk things out, you''ll have to do it kneeling."


    Shopkeeper Lin began buttering up to Qi You. "Senior. he must have been scared silly by now."


    Qi You nced at him and frowned slightly. "He is at the Golden Core Realm too. How could he be this easily frightened? You are only at the Foundation Building Realm, do not presume to know what goes through the mind of a Golden Core Realm cultivator, understand?"


    "Yes, yes, I spoke out of turn," Shopkeeper Lin quickly apologized.


    When Qi You saw that he still didn''t get a response, he continued to focus on refining the formation.


    In front of the ancient tree, Fang Chen stood with his hands sped behind his back.


    Fang Chen could tell from the rolling heat waves around him that the formation could not hold out much longer.


    At that moment, the fruit on the ancient tree began to shine with golden light.


    Suddenly,yers of peculiar scales appeared on the skin of the fruit. The scales were densely packed. The scales opened and closed periodically as if the fruit was breathing. With each opening and closing, the fruit absorbed a tremendous amount of spiritual energy. After ny-nine such cycles, the scales closed permanently and didn''t open again.


    "It''s done."


    Fang Chen''s gaze shifted, and with a slight gesture, he stored the Vajra Bodhi in his storage ring.


    Meanwhile, one fire dragon after another began to bore into the valley, followed by the second and third....


    The Green Sky Mountain Protection Grand Formation began to crumble, and within a few moments, the entire formation waspletely refined by Qi You.


    Qi You, apanied by Shopkeeper Lin, slowly approached the ancient tree.


    "The Vajra Bodhi is gone!" eximed Shopkeeper Lin in shock.


    Qi You''s gaze swept around like lightning, but he could not find a single trance of Fang Chen; it was as if there weren''t anyone apart from them in the valley.


    "Something''s not right; the aura here is off. It''s the aura of the Vajra Bodhi, which had just ripened, but now it''s gone, indicating that this person has been here all along before I broke the formation." Qi You''s eyes narrowed slightly.


    A figure stood quietly in the shadow behind him. Not long after, it turned and walked away.

 Chapter 392: The Rude Youngster

    <h4>Chapter 392: The Rude Youngster</h4>


    "To be able to leave under my watch, this person is not simple." Qi You frowned slightly.


    Shopkeeper Lin''s heart sank.


    <i>How did he escape? What if hees after uster? </i>


    "Wait here for me." With a cold snort, Qi You suddenly transformed into a streak of rainbow and left the valley.


    About two hourster. Qi You returned to the valley, his expression somewhat grim. Seeing that, Shopkeeper Lin knew that he hadn¡¯t found the person.


    Qi You said indifferently, "Take me back to Heavenly Treasure Pavilion."


    "Yes..." Shopkeeper Lin quickly nodded his head.


    ***


    The voice of Little Sword echoed in Fang Chen''s ear. "<i>Little Chen, why didn''t you stay and fight him? We had a chance if we used the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture.</i>"


    Little Sword had been brimming with fighting spirit ever since it advanced to the third rank.


    Fang Chen smiled. "The benefits we obtained are plenty enough. My sword body has advanced to the third rank, and we''ve gained 70,000 low-grade spirit stones, several top-grade, yellow-rank treasures, and more than a dozen mid-grade, yellow-rank treasures.


    "Not to mention the many spiritual materials, pills, and the formation inheritance. Why should we stay and fight a mid stage Golden Core Realm cultivator? I don''t know his full capabilities, nor what other cards he holds. Winning brings us little benefit, and a loss could spell the end of us."


    Mirror of the Universe chimed in there. "It¡¯s good that you¡¯re cautious and prudent, young one. If you were as reckless as some, you¡¯d soon find yourself in trouble."


    Immediately, Little Sword started bickering with it again.


    Fang Chen couldn''t be bothered with them. He transformed into a sword and hurried back toward the Great Qian Imperial Capital. In the Great Qian Empire.


    ***


    "The young master has been in seclusion for nearly two months now...."


    Li Cang nced at the Fang Chen''s room, his expression somewhat grave.


    The trade conference was about to begin, and in recent days, many cultivators hade from many different empires. Some were from sixth-tier empires, some from fifth-tier empires.


    There were new faces visiting the Fang Family almost every day.


    A distinguished guest had arrived at the manor on this day, and the two ancestral elders from each branch of the Fang Family had personallye out to wee them.


    "I heard it''s a Golden Core Realm cultivator from the Yuncang Empire. Ah, such strong individuals not only have unfathomable methods, but their backgrounds are as deep as the ocean. Compared to them, we are just ants," Li Cang murmured to himself.


    At that moment, Chang Fen suddenly rushed back to the secluded courtyard with Jiang Tianai.


    When Li Cang''s eyes fell on Jiang Tiani, he was startled.


    "Sister Chang, what''s that on her face!?"


    There was a very noticeable palm print on Jiang Tianai''s cheek!


    Chang Fen''s face was dark. She tenderly touched Jiang Tianai''s cheek, then turned to Li Cang and said, "The distinguished guest has a disciple who acted very arrogantly. Tianai merely spoke a few words for Lady Fang Yun, and she was pped. That disciple severely injured Lady Fang Yun too. Elder Fang Ao has already gone to handle the matter, but I wonder how the two ancestors will deal with this."


    Pausing for a moment, Chang Fen nced toward Fang Chen''s room and whispered, "Is there any sign of the young mastering out of seclusion? I... want to request the young master toe out of seclusion."


    Jiang Tianai hurriedly said, "Auntie Chang, please don''t disturb! You''ll be disturbing his cultivation by asking him toe out of seclusion."


    Chang Fen gritted her teeth in anger. "But those juniors are really arrogant...."


    Li Cang hurried forward to inquire about the whole situation.


    It turned out that a female disciple in the Qi Refining Realm from the distinguished guest¡¯s group had gotten into a heated argument with Fang Yun. Jiang Tianai happened to be there and spoke a few words for Fang Yun, which led to that female disciple pping her.


    Fang Yun retaliated immediately when that happened. However, she wasn''t a match for that female disciple and was severely injured to the point where she had hacked out blood.


    Subsequently, Fang Jue came over with the disciples from the third branch and stopped the female disciple from leaving. Shortly after, the female disciple''s senior brother came over.


    He was at the Foundation Building Realm. with just a single move, he injured Fang Jue and the rest, which ultimately led to Fang Ao and the others appearing one after another.


    Fang Tingjian and Fang Wanli, the two ancestors, had intervened and were now speaking with that distinguished guest.


    Li Cang smiled bitterly and said, "Sister Chang, that esteemed guest from the Yuncang Empire must have an impressive background if the two ancestors are paying him that much attention. it''s best not to involve young master in this matter."


    Chang Fen was indignant, and she found this hard to swallow. "So youngdy should just take a beating like that?"


    She had been serving Jiang Tianai for a while now, and she had grown fond of her calm and sensible nature. Moreover, she used to serve under Madam Fang Ao, so it could be said that Fang Yun was also her mistress. Now that both her mistresses had been attacked, she found it hard to endure even if she was a martial artist!


    Li Cang said softly, "We''ll wait for the young master toe out of seclusion before we talk about this further. It''s my responsibility to ensure that no one disturbs the young master during his seclusion, that includes you."


    Chang Fen knew that there wasn''t anything she could say to sway him, so she sighed and went to fetch medicine for Jiang Tianai.


    Fang Chen nodded lightly from the shadows.


    "Li Cang has already be a Martial Emperor. Not bad."


    Li Cang''s aura was several times stronger than before, and it was clear that he had advanced from Royal Qi to Imperial Qi and was now a Martial Emperor. Once a martial artist reached that stage, it meant that their foundation had reached the peak.


    Fang Chen returned to his room and split his divine soul from his body.


    He had noticed the prominent palm print on Jiang Tianai¡¯s cheek.


    That person hadn''t held back at all; otherwise, the palm print wouldn¡¯t havested so long on a Qi Refining Realm cultivator like Jiang Tianai.


    Fang Chen''s gaze shifted to the reception hall where several Golden Core Realm auras were present, one of which was evenparable to Fang Tingjian''s.


    <i>Late-stage Golden Core Realm?</i>


    Fang Chen''s divine soul arrived in the hall, where many Foundation Building Realm cultivators from the Fang Family were gathered.


    Fang Ao and his wife looked extremely displeased as they stood behind Fang Wanli, their gazes asionally falling on a young female cultivator not far away.


    The young female cultivator appeared indifferent. Her eyes were filled with arrogance, and she''d asionally cast disdainful looks at everyone present.


    She was apanied by several simr arrogant-looking young cultivators, all of whom were at the Foundation Building Realm.


    Fang Tingjian was quietly conversing with an old man, who wore a faint smile on his face and was listening quietly.


    Fang Tingjian sighed softly. ¡°Daoist Jiang, this was just a bit of friction between the younger generation, and there was no need for us to intervene, but... your disciple went a bit too far with her actions.¡±


    Fang Chen''s attention shifted to Fang Yun. She was pale-faced, and her vitality was deficient. She had obviously sustained internal injuries that affected her cultivation base.


    Even Fang Jue, who was known for his good temperament, was visibly angry.


    The old man suddenly chuckled. "Daoist Fang, perhaps it''s best for us old folks not to meddle in this matter. Why not let the younger generation resolve it themselves? I know my disciple has quite the temper, so if someone from the Fang Family can discipline her and teach her that there are always greater talents out there, it would be considered a good lesson for her."


    The young female cultivator chuckled lightly. "Master, I''ve already reached the 12th stage of Qi Refining Realm. Perhaps only Foundation Building Realm cultivators would be able to match me here."


    <i>What a rude junior! </i>thought the Foundation Building Realm cultivators of the Fang Family in unison.

 Chapter 393: Please Call Fang Chen Over

    Chapter 393: Please Call Fang Chen Over


    "Seniors, I heard that the Fang Family has a female cultivator of simr age to me who is also at the 12th stage of Qi Refining Realm," said the young female cultivator indifferently. "Can you ask her toe out and spar with me?"


    The expressions of the Fang Family members subtly changed. They realized she was referring to Fang Lingxing.


    Fang Tingjian suddenly chuckled. "Little girl, this is the Fang Family. If you are too disrespectful, even Daoist Jiang won¡¯t be able to stop me from teaching you a lesson."


    The young female cultivator''s expression changed slightly. She subconsciously looked at the old man.


    "Daoist Fang, what are you saying? Do you really think it''s a few hundred years ago when we were both young?" The old man chuckled lightly. "At our age, we shouldn''t be bothered by such trivial matters with the younger generation."


    Fang Wanli said angrily, "Jiang Shun, stop pretending. You weren''t my little uncle''s match back then and lost to him in the Sword Fighting Competition in Azure Cloud Empire. Are you just here to stir up trouble?"


    The old man furrowed his brows. "Fang Wanli, you had better know your ce. The seniors are talking here. What qualifications do you have to butt into the conversation?"


    Fang Wanli was trying his best to hold back his anger, but his face was already flushed red. "How infuriating!"


    Fang Chen was standing in the void, watching."Looks like they''re here with ill intentions."


    ording to what Fang Wanli had said, thiste stage Golden Core Realm cultivator had been on bad terms with Fang Tingjian when they were young. He had probably brought his disciples here to stir up trouble, an attempt to salvage his past reputation, likely.


    ¡°Daoist Fang, I need to visit the Jue Family too. If no one from your family is going to step forward and discipline my disciple, then we will take our leave.¡±


    The old man looked at Fang Tingjian and chuckled. Fang Ao and the other Foundation Establishment cultivators were pissed. The younger generation of the Fang Family present also felt secretly annoyed. After all, the other party was indeed too arrogant.


    Just then, a graceful figure entered the reception hall and respectfully greeted the old man with sped hands, "Fang Lingxing from the Fang Family. I pay my respects to you, Seniors."


    When the disciples from the various branches saw that Fang Lingxing had arrived, their eyes brightened up.


    The young female cultivator and the Foundation Building Realm cultivators around scrutinized Fang Lingxing.


    The old man appraised Fang Lingxing with his eyes for a moment and nodded with a smile. "Not bad, not bad. To be able to reach the twelfth stage of Qi Refining Realm with such stable cultivation, you''re truly talented."


    The old man turned to Fang Tingjian and said, "Daoist Fang, shall we let these two juniors spar?"


    Fang Tingjian nodded lightly. "Sure."


    "But... It isn¡¯t a spar without some rewards. Coincidentally, a few of our old friends are here in Grand Qian. I''ll send them a message so they cane over and watch. This will add some excitement. What do you think?" The old man suggested with a smile.


    Fang Tingjian pondered for a moment and then shook his head with a smile. "There''s no need for that. Our old friends are here in Grand Qian for the trade conference. This is only a spar between juniors. No need to make a big deal out of it and waste their time."


    "But if you want to add in a reward for the excitement, that''s not out of the question. What kind of reward do you think would be suitable, Daoist Jiang?"


    The old man smiled and said, "I heard that the Fang Family has a token from Master Chen. Those with this token can rmend a disciple to participate in his disciple assessment. Let''s make a bet on it."


    The expressions of the Fang Family members turned into ones of shock. Their eyes were filled with surprise and fury as they stared at the old man.


    Master Chen was a Talisman Master from the Azure Cloud Empire, and his cultivation level was on par with the Jue Family¡¯s ancestor. They were both at the grandpletion of the Golden Core Realm. Furthermore, both were renowned for their mastery of talisman crafting! They were among the top ten in the Hidden Cloud Region!


    It was worth noting that, among the top ten talisman masters in the Hidden Cloud Region, six were legendary Nascent Soul Realm experts! For Master Chen to have reached this level with a Golden Core Realm cultivation showed his profound skill in talismans!


    That token was an item that the Fang Family had purchased at a great price. It was meant to pave the way for Fang Lingxing, hoping she could be a disciple under Master Chen. If she was sessful, the Fang Family would have a talisman master in the future!


    Fang Lingxing''s expression turned grim.


    Fang Mosheng, who was behind Fang Tingjian, clenched his fists, his face alternating between white and red.


    He actually had designs on his daughter''s opportunity?


    In the cultivation world, plundering someone''s opportunity was akin to killing their parents! It was an irreconcble enmity!


    Fang Tingjian frowned. "Daoist Jiang, this reward is quite expensive. What do you have to offer as a reward in return?"


    "There will be a Nascent Soul Realm expert from the Azure Cloud Empire''s Purple Pole Dao Academy attending the trade conference. This expert has some friendship with our family ancestor and has once given the ancestor a token of apprenticeship."


    Jiang Shun stroked his beard and chuckled. "As long as you have this token, you''ll have the opportunity to participate in the assessment of the Purple Pole Dao Academy.


    "I wonder if this reward is sufficient? The Purple Pole Dao Academy is the top-ranked cultivation sect in Azure Cloud Empire. They have an unfathomable heritage. They only recruit disciples once every 100 years, but if you have this token, you don''t need to wait."


    Fang Tingjian and Fang Wanli were shocked.


    The Purple Pole Dao Academy?


    Fang Ao and the others were also surprised.


    He actually had a token from the Purple Pole Dao Academy?


    Fang Tingjian nodded lightly. "These two rewards are quite simr in value. But I have one question. Why hasn''t the Jiang Family used this token already?"


    Jiang Shun smiled faintly and replied, "It''s not that we don¡¯t want to use it, it''s just that we haven''t found a suitable candidate yet."


    Fang Tingjian nodded. He smiled and said, "I can make a bet with you, but we will call on another talent topete against your disciple."


    "You''ll call onto another disciple topete?" Jiang Shun''s eyes flickered slightly as he smiled faintly. "Could it be Fang Shang from the second branch, or Fang Xiu from the fourth branch? Or perhaps it''s Fang Jue from the third branch? But those are all at the 11th stage. They aren''t a match for my disciple."


    The Fang Family members seemed to have caught on, as their faces showed surprise.


    Fang Lingxing clenched her teeth. She was about to speak, but Fang Mosheng''s voice hit her ear.


    "<em>Lingxing, let Fang Chen handle this. Don''t get involved. If we lose, the cost will be you losing the opportunity to be a disciple under Master Chen! That cost is too heavy for us to bear!</em>"


    After a moment of contemtion, Fang Lingxing nodded."Alright."


    Fang Tingjian chuckled. ¡°You seem to be quite knowledgeable about our family, but no, you''ve guessed wrong. It''s another disciple of ours who''s at the 12th stage. He''s a bit better than Fang Lingxing''s, so having him face your closed-door disciple would be more suitable.¡±


    Fang Ao hesitated for a moment before speaking up. "Elder... Fang Chen is currently in seclusion."


    Fang Chen was still involved in a wager with Jue Wudi. It would be best not to get mixed up in anything else till that was settled first just to avoid including any new variables.


    "Even if he''s in seclusion, he cane out of it. Besides, he¡¯s only at the 12th stage of Qi Refining Realm, so a month or two of seclusion is more than sufficient. Does he think he can advance to the Foundation Building Realm without a Foundation Building Pill?"


    Fang Tingjian smiled and continued, "Go and bring Fang Chen here."


    Fang Ao sighed inwardly, then immediately sped his fists and said, "Ancestor, I''ll go personally."


    Fang Tingjian nodded lightly. "Very well."


    After Fang Ao left the reception hall, Fang Tingjian looked at Jiang Shun and smiled faintly. "Getting cold feet, Daoist Jiang?"


    Jiang Shun''s expression darkened. He didn''t know when the Fang Family had gained another disciple at the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm.


    After thinking for a moment, he suddenly chuckled. "I''m actually rather curious to see what kind of junior could earn your personal attention like this."

 Chapter 394: Gathering Together

    Chapter 394: Gathering Together


    In the secluded courtyard, the door to the quiet room opened slowly, and a hint of joy appeared on Li Cang''s face as he rushed forward.


    "Young Master, you''vee out of seclusion."


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "Yes, I did. When did you ascend to be a Martial Emperor?"


    Li Cang tried to not show his joy as he exined softly, "It was just half a month ago. It was all thanks to the spirit stones you gave me. I was able to purchase some highly beneficial spiritual herbs for martial artists."


    These spiritual herbs hadn''t been cheap at all. Some of them had even been just as expensive as the spiritual herbs cultivators used.


    Chang Fen had been treating Jiang Tianai when she saw Fang Chene out of his room, so she quickly brought Jiang Tinani forward to pay respects.


    Jiang Tianai''s face lit up with a happy smile. "Sir."


    The respect she had for Fang Chen was clear in her eyes.


    Suddenly, Chang Fen knelt in front of Fang Chen and said in a low voice, "This servant has not taken good care of the youngdy. I have let her have grievances. Please punish me."Jiang Tianai quickly exined, "Sir, this has nothing to do with Auntie Chang."


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "I have a general idea of what happened. This matter involves a Golden Core Realm from Azure Cloud Empire. They came to the Fang Family with a purpose in mind. Even if they didn''t take it out on you, they would have taken it out on someone else. This is something that is rather unavoidable."


    Li Cang and Chang Fen were shocked. How was the young master so well informed despite having been in seclusion?


    Fang Chen casually asked, "Li Cang, has the date for the trade conference been confirmed?"


    Li Cang replied promptly, "Yes, it has been. The trade conference will be held at the Southern Hunting Grounds in seven days."


    The news was known to everyone in the entire imperial capital. People in circles like theirs, especially the martial artists, were secretly discussing and nning to test their luck at the southern outskirts on that day. Perhaps they might catch the attention of a certain cultivator, or maybe they''ll get their hands on something good, propelling them toward the path of immortality. In any case, the trade conference was truly a gathering of opportunities!


    "Now even cultivators from fourth-tier empires are appearing in the imperial capital. I wonder how many havee from fifth-tier empires?" said Fang Chen.


    Li Cang replied, "Quite a few of them have arrived. There already cultivators from fifth-tier empires, such as the Grand Wei Empire, the Chao Xiang Empire, and the Hidden Immortal Empire that have already been weed into the pce"


    Fang Chen nodded slightly. The Grand Qian Empire was considered top-tier among fifth-tier empires, mainly due to it having a grandpletion Golden Core Realm cultivator in the imperial family. There were a few empires, like the Demon Cloud Empire, that only had cultivators at the early stages of the Golden Core Realm.


    While those empires would still receive a decent amount of attention when they arrived, they still wouldn''t receive as big of a wee as the top three fifth-tier empires. Usually, the Absolute Divine Ancestor and the Fang Family were the ones who handled the reception duties. If they didn''t, it would be representatives of the five major families in the inner city who would do it.


    ording to Li Cang, cultivators from these fifth-tier empires are almost all here, and many from sixth-tier empires have also arrived, such as the Fire me Empire and the Green Fox Empire, with Foundation Establishment cultivators arriving in the imperial capital.


    Due to the trade conference, the number of Golden Core cultivators in Grand Qian''s imperial capital has exceeded one hundred, and the number of Foundation Establishment cultivators had increased several times over!


    "I heard that Grand Wei and the Grand Qian Empire don''t get along. I hope that won''t cause trouble now that they''re here in the capital," Fang Chen said with a smile.


    Li Cang''s eyes revealed a hint of concern. "The Azure Cloud Empire is the one organizing the trade conference. Grand Wei and Chao Xiang are both affiliated with the Hidden Cloud Empire, but they shouldn''t dare to cause trouble at such a time."


    Fang Chen nodded. From the start till now, he hadn''t inquired about the Fang Family. Apart from Fang Shang, he wasn''t sure if there were any Spirit Blood Cult cultivators in the Fang family. He didn''t want any rumors to reach their ears and make them suspicious.


    Just then, a streak of light swiftly arrived and appeared at the entrance of the solitary courtyard.


    Li Cang and Chang Fen quickly bowed and paid their respects. "Elder Fang Ao!"


    When Fang Ao saw Fang Chen, surprise appeared on his face. However, it was quickly reced with joy. "Fang Chen, you''vee out of seclusion?"


    "Ancestor requests for your presence. Come, I''ll exin more on the way," said Fang Ao directly, pulling Fang Chen along as they left.


    Jiang Tianai instinctively followed, but Chang Fen quickly stopped her. "Miss Tianai, we''ll stay here. The young master has important matters to attend to."


    Fang Chen smiled. "No need. All of you cane with me."


    Fang Ao was slightly taken aback at first, but he didn''t object. He gestured for them to follow him. "Come along."


    Chang Fen and Li Cang were immediately excited.


    In the reception hall, Jiang Shun was chatting casually with Fang Tingjian. However, he suddenly stood up and smiled toward the door. "Daoist Fang, our old friends have arrived."


    "Daoist Jiang, Daoist Fang, it''s been many years since west met. Why are your disciplespeting with each other when we meet? That isn''t good for our rtionship."


    A heartyughter rang out, followed by a middle-aged stout man entering the hall. He was apanied by several young people, some were in the Foundation Building Realm while others were in the Qi Refining Realm. They were evidently his disciples and juniors.


    Upon seeing that man, Fang Wanli eximed, ¡°Herees that martial fanatic!¡±


    Fang Wanli''s heart skipped a beat. He nervously touched his right forearm.


    "Is that... Immortal Tianwu from Grand Wei?"


    The Foundation Building Realm cultivators of the Fang family exchanged nces. They had heard of that person. They heard he was a martial fanatic like Elder Jueti who advocated cultivating both martial arts and immortality. He had taken up a unique path.


    Jiang Shun nodded and smiled. "Tianwu, it''s been a long time."


    Fang Tingjian smiled too. "Immortal Tianwu, thest time we met was about a hundred and sixty-eight years ago, right?"


    "That''s right. At that time, we had both just reached the mid stage of the Golden Core Realm," said Immortal Tianwu,ughing heartily.


    After that, Immortal Tianwu began to introduce his disciples and juniors to everyone.


    A hundred and sixty-eight years ago in the mid stage Golden Core Realm?


    The members of the Fang Family were shaken. This meant that Elder Tianwu should also be at thete Golden Core Realm now!


    In the next few moments, six or seven Golden Core Realm cultivators arrived one after another,prising both men and women. Some looked fairly ordinary while others appeared quite strange, with red hair or green beards. The weakest of them was at the early Golden Core Realm, while the strongest had a cultivation on par with Fang Tingjian.


    They had known each other for many years, and the trade conference came as the perfect opportunity for them to meet up again.


    ¡°I heard your bet is quite substantial. How about I act as the mediator and suggest that you don''t make the stakes too high? Things like this can put a dent in rtionships,¡± said Immortal Tianwu smilingly.


    Jiang Shun nced at him and replied casually, ¡°The stakes aren''t that big. Let''s talk about the Purple Pole Daoist Academy. Don''t tell me none of your disciples are cultivating there?¡±


    Upon hearing that, everyone showed a wry smile. That was the number one cultivation sect in the Azure Cloud Empire. Why wouldn''t a Golden Core Realm cultivator arrange for their people to enroll there? However, the academy''s cost of entry was extremely high and it was something even Golden Core Realm cultivators found hard to bear. That''s why Immortal Tianwu mentioned that the stakes of their bet were extremely high.


    Immortal Tianwu chuckled. ¡°It seems both of you are quite confident. We''ll just sit back and watch the show then."


    Jiang Shun nced at Fang Tingjian and remarked, ¡°I see that your junior hasn''t arrived yet. Making us wait isn''t very polite, is it?¡±


    Fang Tingjian chuckled lightly. ¡°Oh, there he is.¡±


    Fang Ao rushed into the hall with Fang Chen and the rest.


    Upon seeing Jiang Tianai and Chang Fen, the female disciple from Jiang Shun''s sect couldn''t help but let out a sneer.

 Chapter 395: Azure Cloud’s Sui Huanian

    Chapter 395: Azure Cloud¡¯s Sui Huanian


    Fang Lingxing sized up Fang Chen. <em>After two months of seclusion, his aura seems¡­ even more restrained than before.</em>


    The members of the Fang family grew excited when they saw Fang Chen.


    Fang Xiu nodded lightly. "He should be much stronger now that two months have passed."


    He had started to employ the trick that Fang Chen had taught them, multi-tasking. It was initially ufortable, but he quickly realized its benefits. However, this method of practice was quite tedious. The average cultivator couldn''t sustain such a way of assiduous practice for too long.


    "<em>Junior Sister, Fang Chen is here,</em>" Fang Jue transmitted to Fang Yun.


    Fang Yun was pale-faced, and she could barely open her eyes. She forced her eyes open for a moment, looked at Fang Chen, then at Jiang Tianai, and closed them again.


    When Fang Ao and Jing Jing saw their daughter like this, they couldn''t help but grow even more resentful toward that girl who had injured her.


    Fang Shang was standing in the crowd, among the second-branch disciples.


    When Fang Chen appeared, Fang Shang''s gaze immediately fell on him."He is different. His aura seems sharper than it was two months ago." A faint hint of mockery shed in Fang Shang''s eyes. "Still, it doesn''t matter."


    Fang Chen absolutely couldn¡¯tpare to Jue Wudi, who was a true Foundation Building Realm cultivator. Among those with the same level, Jue Wudi was almost unbeatable.


    In terms of strength, background, and power, there was noparison between the two.


    However, what they didn''t know was that Fang Chen was deliberately letting them perceive his aura.


    There were many Golden Core Realm cultivators here, and if all of them were not able to discern his cultivation level, it was bound to arouse suspicion, causing trouble.


    Jiang Shun sized up Fang Chen with a faint smile. "He''s at the 12th stage of Qi Refining Realm. He has a solid foundation with a robust aura. Congrattions, Daoist Fang. In the near future, the Fang Family might have another Foundation Building Realm cultivator."


    "Compared to your closed-door disciple, this child''s foundation is still slightly inferior," remarked Fang Tingjian with a smile.


    "Stop being modest. Say, why don''t we have a friendlypetition?" Immortal Tianwu chuckled. "Since we''re all here, I''ll act as a witness. Everything will be within the rules, but if anyone steps out of line, we won''t hesitate to intervene."


    Fang Tingjian smiled lightly. "This is a friendlypetition. The premise is naturally not to endanger lives. Daoist Jiang, do you have any objections?"


    Jiang Shun nodded gently. "Actually, it''s quite simple. My disciple recently stumbled upon a fortuitous encounter. If your disciple can touch her clothes within a hundred moves, we''ll consider it our loss. Conversely, if he¡¯s not able to, it''s your loss. How about that?"


    Everyone was momentarily stunned.


    "Touch her clothes within a hundred moves?"


    The gazes of Immortal Tianwu and the other Golden Core Realm cultivators fell on the young female cultivator. Their eyes were filled with doubt.


    "Things can''t be this simple," said Fang Xiu with a slightly serious expression. If that was all that needed to be done, then not to mention Fang Chen, even he was confident he could touch her clothes within a hundred moves. After all, they were both Qi Refining Realm cultivators.


    Fang Tingjian furrowed his brow slightly. ¡°Daoist Jiang, the stakes we''re putting up are not to be taken lightly. Are you sure you want to do this?¡±


    Jiang Shun chuckled softly. ¡°With all our old friends here, would I joke about something like this?¡±


    ¡°Very well, it''s settled then.¡± Fang Tingjian''s lips curled slightly upwards as he looked at Fang Chen. ¡°Fang Chen, did you hear that? If you can touch Daoist Jiang''s disciple within a hundred moves, you win. Otherwise, you lose.¡±


    The expressions of the crowd were quite strange, especially the Fang Family disciples who had witnessed Fang Chen''s abilities. They felt that Jiang Shun hade today to gift them a token.


    ¡°If the Purple Pole Dao Academy apprenticeship offer is won, I wonder who will receive it.¡±


    ¡°Fang Chen will obviously be the one to get it. If not him, who else?¡±


    ¡°Well, we don''t know that yet¡­."


    ¡°Junior Sister, they seem quite confident,¡± remarked one of Jiang Shun''s disciples, who was in the Foundation Building Realm. He wore a nonchnt expression, his demeanor condescending.


    The eldest among them, who emitted the aura of someone in the mid stage Foundation Building Realm, smiled softly and winked at the young female cultivator.


    ¡°Senior Brother, if I win, will you take me around the trade conference? We agreed on that previously,¡± said the young female cultivator with a smile.


    ¡°Of course, as long as what you buy doesn''t exceed a thousand low-grade spirit stones, I will buy it for you,¡± said her senior brother.


    The young female cultivator smiled joyfully. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    The conversation between the two was projecting extreme confidence.


    "Uncle, do you think there might be something fishy going on here?" Fang Wanli sent a quiet message, his expression bing somewhat serious.


    "Of course there might be something fishy. Let''s just watch and see," Fang Tingjian nced at Fang Wanli and then smiled faintly as he looked at Jiang Shun. "Shall we begin?"


    Jiang Shun''s lips curved into a smile as he nodded lightly.


    The young female cultivator walked into the arena and looked at Fang Chen, smiling lightly. ¡°Yun Chang, Sui Nianhua.¡±


    ¡°Grand Qian, Fang Chen.¡±


    Sui Nianhua chuckled lightly. ¡°Why aren''t you opening your eyes to look at me?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m blind,¡± replied Fang Chen.


    <em>Blind?</em>


    Immortal Tianwu reflexively looked at Fang Tingjian.


    Fang Tingjian nodded lightly. ¡°He¡¯s indeed blind.¡±


    Sui Nianhua''s face didn''t show any ridicule. Instead, it suddenly became somewhat serious. The fact that the Fang Family sent a blind disciple to fight her showed that both their Golden Core Realm cultivators were confident in him. There must be something special about him.


    A glimmer of light shed in Sui Nianhua''s eyes, and the next moment, everyone felt the world around them spin.


    The surroundings changed drastically.


    Everyone found themselves standing on the peak of various mountains. Surrounding them were endless abysses and seas of raging fire, as if there were roars and howlsing from within the abysses.


    The sky turned dark, with rolling dark clouds and shing thunder.


    Sui Nianhua and Fang Chen appeared on a tform in the middle of an isted mountain range, surrounded by abyssal fire and thunderous skies.


    ¡°An illusion technique!?¡±


    Everyone was shocked.


    Immortal Tianwu was surprised and turned to Jiang Shun. ¡°Daoist Jiang, what kind of technique is this? Even we''re being affected¡­.¡±


    The other Foundation Building Realm cultivators and their disciples were shocked by the scene before them. Through conversation, they realized that everyone present was trapped in this illusion, without exception!


    With that discovery, Fang Jue and the others were filled with horror. Even Foundation Building Realm cultivators were drawn into this illusion. For such a skill to have been employed by a 12th stage Qi Refining Realm cultivator was truly unimaginable.


    Previously, when Fang Chen faced off against Jue Wudi, the Illusion Talisman he used only trapped Jue Wudi in an illusion. Compared to today, that Illusion Talisman was a joke!


    Jiang Shun''s lips curved slightly. ¡°Gentlemen, you might not know this, but my disciple has once swallowed a divine lotus and has gained extraordinary insights into illusion techniques ever since then. Soon, the King of Illusions at the Purple Pole Dao Academy will personally take my disciple as a student.¡±


    The expressions of the Foundation Building Realm cultivators present became extremely serious. The King of Illusions at the Purple Pole Dao Academy? That was an unbeatable and terrifying figure in the Hidden Cloud Region!

 Chapter 396: Invincible?

    Chapter 396: Invincible?


    "Daoist Jiang, are you serious? The King of Illusions hasn''t taken any disciples in thest two hundred years!"


    The expression of Immortal Tianwu became serious, and several other Golden Core Realm cultivators mirrored his astonishment. They had heard of the King of Illusions. That was undoubtedly an unfathomable Nascent Soul Realm powerhouse!


    Jiang Shun chuckled lightly. "This is no joking matter. If that wasn''t the case, why would I bring out the Purple Pole Dao Academy''s disciple token? Having her join is more than enough."


    The Golden Core Realm cultivators fell into silence, some attempting to analyze the illusion, searching for a way to break through to it. However, they came to a shocking conclusion: they couldn''t find a single w in this illusion! If they wanted to break it, they''d have to rely on their cultivation base to forcibly break it!


    It was evident how terrifying the illusions of Sui Nianhua were. She would be invincible amongst those at the same cultivation level as her.


    Feng Tingjian furrowed his brows, looking at Sui Nianhua with a hint of gravity in his gaze. "You''re willing to let her join the Purple Pole Dao Academy with her talent?"


    Jiang Shun chuckled lightly, "Why wouldn''t I be willing? Have you all forgotten? That King of Illusions is also an ancestor of my Jiang Family!"


    Fang Wanli was dumbfounded. "That rumor is actually true?"They had indeed heard that there was an ancestor of the Jiang Family who had a profound cultivation base that was at the Purple Pole Dao Academy.


    However, it never crossed their mind that it would be that King of Illusions¡­.


    "So that''s it. No wonder when Daoist Jiang offended the crown prince of the Hidden Immortal Empire, the matter was somehow resolved. Turns out the King of Illusions is your blood rtive," said Immortal Wutian with a sigh.


    Jiang Shun chuckled lightly. "We can talk about thister. For now, let these two juniors have a spar."


    With that, all eyes turned to Sui Nianhua and Fang Chen.


    ''<em>He''s going to lose</em>,'' thought Fang Lingxing.


    She was secretly relieved, d that wasn''t the one who had to face Sui Nianhua.


    She simply didn''t have any way of breaking through Sui Nianhua''s illusion. She would''ve been put at a disadvantage right from the very start.


    Fang Lingxing looked at Fang Chen with mockery. <em>You once made Big Brother Jue lose face with your Illusion Talisman. You''re getting a taste of your own medicine now. This is karma.</em>


    Fang Lingxing, however, couldn''t help but find it regrettable that Master Chen''s disciple token would be taken away. She had to find a way to seize an opportunity during the trade conference now.


    Fang Shang''s expression grew solemn as he nced at Sui Nianhua, feeling somewhat envious. "This kind of method..."


    Sui Nianhua looked at Fang Chen with a faint smile. "Go ahead and make your move, but I doubt you can take even half a step toward me. It''s all in vain. You might as well admit defeat now."


    Fang Chen took a step forward. However, he suddenly blurred and appeared back where he was.


    The crowd''s expressions becameplicated.


    Fang Chen tried to manipte the elements by gathering spiritual energy around him. However, that energy was like headless flies, unable to approach Fang Chen.


    Li Cang found this unbelievable. ¡°Isn''t she invincible in here¡­?¡±


    Facing such a cultivator, even a hundred Martial Emperors would find it difficult to get close. He finally understood why the gap between martial artists and cultivators was like a chasm.


    The smile on Sui Nianhua''s face grew even brighter. "I told you, you can''t get close to me."


    <em>"Uncle, we''ve been tricked. While her illusions are powerful, that''s all they are. She doesn''t have any offensive power. If we hadn''t epted these fight conditions, this match would''ve at most ended in a tie</em>," Fang Wanli said with a serious expression through voice transmission.


    Fang Tingjian remained silent, not uttering a word.


    Fang Wanli could only curse Jiang Shun inwardly. There was simply nothing he could do other than that.


    "What''s your rtionship with that little girl?" Sui Nianhua asked.


    She was casually watching Fang Chen attempt to break her illusion.


    Fang Chen didn''t pay her any heed. He was observing the surroundings expressionlessly, searching for ws in the illusion.


    Immortal Tianwu shook his head lightly. "Even we can''t find any ws. It''s probably impossible for a Qi Refining Realm cultivator to break this illusion."


    Seeing Fang Chen''s silence, Sui Nianhua continued to smile. "You should discipline that girl properly in the future. Not every asion allows for casual speech. There''s a hierarchy among mortals, just as there is among cultivators."


    Fang Chen smiled faintly while analyzing the illusion. "I know her well. She wouldn''t have acted if she didn''t have reason to. You did it because you simply wanted to force this bet. But you didn''t have to drag a kid into this. You could have been direct about this. My ancestor is a reasonable person."


    Fang Tingjian''s mouth curved into a slight smile at Fang Chen''s words. His eyes were filled with amusement.


    Fang Wanli couldn¡¯t help but burst outughing. ¡°Even the younger generation understands this principle, yet some people insist on using underhanded tactics. Truly shameless.¡±


    Jiang Shun''s expression turned cold as he nced lightly at Fang Chen.


    Immortal Tianwu and others caught on. It seemed that today''s events were deliberately orchestrated by Jiang Shun. However, they knew they couldn''t say much. Everyone here was a Golden Core Realm cultivator, and Jiang Shun''s background was superior to theirs.


    The smile on Sui Nianhua''s face turned cold. "Are you insinuating that I''m intentionally causing trouble?"


    With a thought, a stone lion, asrge as a mountain, suddenly appeared in front of Fang Chen and stomped toward him.


    A hint of mockery appeared on Sui Nianhua''s face, as if she could already see Fang Chen''s next move.


    Fang Jue and the others'' expressions were somber. "Is this attack real or fake?"


    Judging from the momentum of the stone lion, it seemed real. However, this was the opponent''s illusion, so truth and falsehood were intertwined. It was difficult to tell which was which!


    <em>It must be said that her illusion technique far surpasses the level of the Illusion Talisman. Even peak-grade, yellow-rank illusions talismans might not reach her level. No wonder she''s so confident.</em>


    Fang Chen sighed inwardly.


    He couldn''t break through the opponent''s illusion with normal methods, so now he could only cheat.


    Fang Chen''s divine soul left his body. In an instant, all the illusory scenes around him disappeared without a trace.


    Even that stone lion that was formed from earth energy was not actually the size of a small mountain. It was only about ten meters tall. The fluctuation of spiritual energy wasn''t entirely smooth either, which meant that the opponent was somewhat struggling to control her power. That suggested that Sui Nianhua''s mastery over the five elements was... mediocre.


    The only problem now was that his soul was out of his body, and Fang Chen could see through the opponent''s illusion, but his physical body couldn''t move. And returning his divine soul to his body would leave him trapped in the illusion. This was quite the quagmire.


    <em>But this isn''t entirely unsolvable. It''s almost impossible for her to harm me.</em>


    Fang Chen looked at the stone lion expressionlessly for a moment before returning his divine soul to his body.


    <em>Boom!</em>


    A huge footprintnded on Fang Chen.


    However, the stone lion shattered into tiny fragments while Fang Chen remained unharmed.


    Now that Fang Chen''s sword body had reached the third rank, his physical body''s strength had reached a level that was unimaginable to ordinary people. There was simply no way for a Qi Refining Realm cultivator to be able to harm him.


    "Foundation Building Realm cultivators might be able to forcibly break through this illusion. As for Golden Core Realm cultivators... it shouldn''t take them long. What they can do, my third rank Sword Body can do just as well," Fang Chen mused as he sat down with his hands resting on his knees, silently meditating.

 Chapter 397: Keeping Calm

    <h4>Chapter 397: Keeping Calm</h4>


    "This kid''s physical body is quite good." Immortal Tianwu¡¯s eyes brightened as he turned to Fang Tingjian. "Is he a martial artist?"


    "Yes." Fang Tingjian nodded lightly. "This child grew up in the wild and was constantly in battle. He went through a lot to be a cultivator. This is also why he was blinded."


    Immortal Tianwu¡¯s gaze flickered slightly. "He''s a promising talent."


    Upon seeing that the stone lion posed no threat to Fang Chen, the crowd grew surprised.


    The disciples of the Fang Family, who had been worried about Fang Chen, straightened up one after the other.


    "So, she doesn''t have much offensive ability. Her techniques don''t seem to have any effect on Fang Chen."


    "That''s right. I thought she was very powerful, but besides this illusion, she doesn''t seem to have much else."


    "Fang Chen, you don''t have to do anything else. Let''s just drag it out! As long as you don''t reach a hundred moves, there won''t be a winner in this match," someone suggested.


    Sui Nianhua''s expression turned somewhat grim. She didn''t expect that her techniques would have no effect on Fang Chen. Unlike the others who could only see the illusion in front of them, she could clearly see the real situation. Fang Chen was trapped by her, unable to use spiritual energy and unable to form a spiritual energy barrier to protect himself. She couldn''t understand how was it that her earth element power couldn¡¯t harm him at all!


    Sui Nianhua gritted her teeth. "I don''t believe it!"


    Suddenly, countless flying swords appeared in the sky, exuding terrifying sword intent that swept in all directions.


    Even the Golden Core Realm cultivators were affected by the sword intent, causing their hair to stand on end. However, they soon realized that this was just an illusion.


    Fang Chen continued to sit cross-legged on the ground without moving a muscle. He didn''t show any reaction to the multitude of flying swords in the sky.


    "We agreed to fight for a hundred moves. If you''re afraid of losing this match and will adopt a passive stance and choose not to make a move, it will only cloud your state of mind as a cultivator" said Jiang Shun lightly.


    The crowd was slightly startled. They quickly realized that Jiang Shun''s words held truth.


    Jiang Shun''s words were indeed correct. Cultivators didn''t just cultivate their bodies but also their minds. In fact, a cultivator''s state of mind was often even more important than their cultivation.


    Fang Tingjian spoke lightly. "Fang Chen, don''t be afraid of losing. We can afford to lose. Do whatever you want to do."


    Unfortunately, Fang Chen remained unmoved.


    Sui Nianhua''s gaze turned cold. The sky full of flying swords descended like a meteor shower, shooting toward Fang Chen with unstoppable force.


    In reality, a low-grade, yellow-rank flying sword was aimed at Fang Chen''s forehead!


    Sui Nianhua was confident that Fang Chen wouldn''t dare to directly take this head-on with his physical body!


    The flying sword had twelve Soul Imprints flickering on it.


    "Aren''t you going to move?" said Sui Nianhua, her eyes narrowing.


    In the end, she decided not to hold back. She ushered her flying sword forward!


    The tip of the sword touched Fang Chen''s forehead, and then, a more majestic sword intent surged out from within Fang Chen''s body. The flying sword began to crumble from the tip, disintegrating into fragments that fell to the ground.


    Sui Nianhua was caught off guard and suffered a bacsh immediately, with her blood qi surging uncontrobly. A trace of blood seeped from the corner of her mouth.


    "How is this possible...?"


    Sui Nianhua''s expression was filled with shock.


    At that moment, the seemingly wless illusion showed signs of weakening.


    Fang Chen suddenly opened his eyes, his gray-white pupils devoid of any emotion as they coldly stared at Sui Nianhua.


    Sui Nianhua suddenly felt a bit distracted. "His eyes..."


    When Sui Nianhua finally snapped out of it, it suddenly urred to her that Fang Chen was standing right in front of her!


    p!


    Fang Chen lightly waved his sleeve, and a pnded squarely on Sui Nianhua''s face.


    The p sent Sui Nianhua hurtling. She flew in the air before crashing heavily to the ground several dozen feet away.


    The illusion immediately shattered, and everyone was swiftly ejected from it.


    The crowd looked at the fallen Sui Nianhua with expressions of astonishment, confusion, and disbelief.


    <i>What just happened?</i>


    They were all just inside the illusion...?


    Even the Golden Core Realm cultivators couldn''t understand what had just happened.


    "How was the illusion broken!?"


    "I don''t know, but I felt the illusion loosen just now. It seems like Fang Chen seized that opportunity!"


    Whispers spread among the crowd, excitement asionally appearing on their faces.


    Fang Chen won, which meant that he would receive a token for the Purple Pr Dao Academy.


    That was the number one cultivation sect in the Azure Cloud Empire!


    Jiang Shun''s face darkened. He didn''t speak. Only, his gaze lingered on Sui Nianhua for a long time.


    In the end, it was Sui Nianhua''s senior brothers who went forward to help her up and check on her injuries. They breathed a sigh of relief when they confirmed that she hadn''t been seriously injured. She only had a swollen cheek.


    Sui Nianhua staggered forward and lowered her head in front of Jiang Shun. ¡°Master, I''m sorry, I....¡±


    Jiang Shun spoke softly. "Why did your illusion show signs of weakening just now?"


    Sui Nianhua nced at Fang Chen as if he were a monster.


    "When my flying sword fell on him, it was shattered. The bacsh caused me internal injuries that affected my mental state. That''s why the illusion weakened."


    <i>He shattered it?</i>


    Upon hearing that, everyone looked at Fang Chen and noticed the remnants of the flying sword near Fang Chen''s feet.


    Everyone was shocked.


    Isn''t this too exaggerated?


    He used his physical body to shatter a flying sword? But he was of flesh and blood while the other was a treasure. Even if was just a low-grade, yellow-rank treasure, it was still a treasure!


    "Is he walking the same path of tempering the physical body like Jue Tiangang!?"


    "That¡¯s possible. After all, I heard he was a martial artist who roamed the world."


    Whispers spread among the crowd.


    Immortal Tianwu suddenly looked at Fang Chen and asked with a hint of excitement in his voice, "Young man, are you willing to be my disciple!? I practice both immortal and martial arts, which is absolutely suitable for you. If you practice with me, you will have a chance to cultivate to the Golden Core Realm!"


    Several disciples around Immortal Tianwu looked at Fang Chen with strange expressions, waiting to hear his response.


    Fang Tingjian smiled faintly. "Immortal Tianwu, he is a member of the Fang Family. I have arrangements for him."


    Immortal Tianwu sighed. "If you are unwilling to let him go, then I can''t do anything about it."


    Fang Tingjian looked toward Jiang Shun. ¡°Daoist Jiang, shall we end thispetition now? Also, about the Purple Pole Dao Academy''s disciple token..."


    Jiang Shun suddenly chuckled, waved his sleeve, and a simple bronze token fell into Fang Tingjian''s hand. ¡°A bet is a bet. I have other matters to attend to, so I will take my leave."


    With that, Jiang Shun turned and left with his disciples.


    There was a look of unwillingness on Sui Nianhua''s face as she followed behind.


    She wouldn''t have lost if she hadn''t attacked Fang Chen!


    Unfortunately, she never expected her opponent to be a body refiner. His physical body was just so powerful.


    "We won''t linger here any longer either."


    Immortal Tianwu and his group also took their leave.


    When Immortal Tianwu left, he specifically asked Fang Chen again if he was willing to be his disciple. After getting a polite refusal, he sighed and left.


    Fang Chen handed took out a Snake Spirit Fruit and handed it to Fang Ao. "Elder Fang Ao, this is a Snake Spirit Fruit. It has miraculous healing effects."


    Fang Chen then bid farewell to Fang Tingjian and Fang Wanli before turning and leaving with his people.


    He didn''t even ask about the disciple token from the Purple Pole Dao Academy.


    Fang Tingjian was somewhat surprised. "A Snake Spirit Fruit? He has such good stuff on him?"


    Fang Tingjian turned to Fang Ao and said, "Give the Snake Spirit Fruit to Fang Yun. Her injuries will heal immediately."


    Fang Ao and his wife were thrilled and quickly fed the fruit to Fang Yun. As expected, within moments, herplexion returned to normal and her aura stabilized.


    "Yun¡¯er, how are your injuries now?" Fang Ao''s wife hurriedly asked.


    Fang Yun nodded gently. "Mother, I''m much better now."


    She nced in the direction Fang Chen had left with a grateful look in her eyes.

 Chapter 398: Fang Chens Instructions

    <h4>Chapter 398: Fang Chen''s Instructions</h4>


    Fang Jue was a little shocked. "Master, what is a Snake Spirit Fruit? Little Junior Sister''s injuries were clearly severe, but now they''re almostpletely healed?"


    Fang Lingxing and the others noticed themotion and looked over.


    Fang Mosheng and a few other Foundation Establishment cultivators approached. Their expressions were filled with shock.


    "Fang Ao, where did Fang Chen get the Snake Spirit Fruit? This is a peak-grade, yellow-rank spirit fruit. I''ve heard that it only appears in the Azure Cloud Empire and the Hidden Immortal Empire."


    The prices of peak-grade, yellow-rank spirit fruits varied mainly based on their effects. A cultivator might be able to buy a spirit fruit of that quality for one to two hundred spirit stones, which wasn''t considered particrly expensive. However, it could be that the Snake Spirit Fruit was sacred medicine when it came to healing injuries. This fruit could even do wonders for a Golden Core Realm cultivator who''s severely injured.


    Therefore, the price of the Snake Spirit Fruit was not low. The Fang Family had obtained a few of them over the past few hundred years, but they had all been used up.


    "I don''t know. All I know is that Fang Chen used this Snake Spirit Fruit to save Fang Yun. If not for that, her injuries would have seriously impacted her foundation," said Fang Ao in a deep voice.


    "You don''t need to worry about this. Even though Jiang Shun''s disciple injured your daughter, not only did the Snake Spirit fruit heal her internal injuries, but the residual spiritual energy from the fruit will also nourish her veins. This can be considered a blessing in disguise," said Fang Tingjian with a smile as he walked over. "Aside from that, I intend to give Fang Jue this Purple Extreme Dao Academy token. What do you think?"


    Fang Wanli smiled and said, "The three branches of our family have all gained something from this misfortune."


    Giving the disciple token to Fang Jue?


    The crowd was startled, and shock appeared all over their faces.


    The seniors from the main branch and the second branch hesitated to speak, while the cultivators from the fourth branch remained silent, unaffected by the news.


    Fang Kun was the family Head, so he was quick to notice the awkward atmosphere.


    "Elders, the Purple Extreme Dao Academy token is of great importance. I propose that we give it to either Fang Lingxing, Fang Shang, or Fang Xiu. Those three are all more talented than Fang Jue and are more suitable to join the Purple Pole Dao Academy."


    There was a glimmer of excitement in Fang Mosheng''s eyes. This would give his daughter another chance to be a disciple of Master Chen and possibly join the Purple Pole Dao Academy. It was an incredible opportunity that they had to have!


    "Master, elders, what the Head said is right. They are more talented than I am. The Purple Extreme Dao Academy token is extremely valuable and should not be wasted," Fang Jue said respectfully.


    "Fang Chen was the one who obtained the Purple Extreme Dao Academy token, so the three branches must have priority," said Fang Xiu.


    The cultivator from the fourth branch nced at him, nodded lightly, and added, "Fang Xiu is correct. The three branches have priority."


    Fang Mosheng frowned and rebuked. "This concerns the entire family. Whether it''s the three branches or the main branch, we are all members of the same family and should all be treated fairly."


    The cultivator from the fourth branch nced at him, a faint cold smile appearing on his face. However, he didn''t say anything more.


    "The second branch has no objections. We will follow the arrangements of the ancestors and the Head." the Foundation Building Realm cultivators from the second branch exchanged a nce with each other, deciding not to participate. That way, they wouldn''t antagonize the main branch nor create enmity with the third and fourth branches.


    Fang Ao lightly furrowed his brow, pondered for a moment, and then whispered, "Ancestors, if anyone should have this token, it''s Fang Chen."


    Fang Tingjian lightly shook his head. "Fang Chen is not fit to have the disciple token. If he joins the Purple Pole Dao Academy, it may bring cmity, which would not only affect the academy but it''ll also affect our family. I have other arrangements for him. He won''t be treated unfairly."


    The Foundation Building Realm cultivators present understood his words and had a sudden realization. However, those in the Qi Refining Realm who didn''t know Fang Chen''s background felt confused. Why would Fang Chen joining the Purple Pole Dao Academy bring cmity?


    Fang Wanli nodded. "That''s right. Fang Chen was the one who won the disciple token, so we won''t mistreat him. During the uing trade conference, there will be Foundation Building Pills for sale. We will make sure to get one for him."


    "Foundation Building Pills!?"


    "This..."


    Both the Foundation Building Realm and Qi Refining Realm cultivators present were somewhat shocked. While the disciple token from the Purple Pole Dao Academy was important and expensive, the value of a Foundation Building Pill far surpassed it in terms of immediate benefits.


    "Elders, didn''t we say... that if there''s a Foundation Building Pill, my daughter will have priority...?" Fang Mosheng pondered aloud.


    "That was the case before. But now Fang Chen''s strength far surpasses Lingxing''s, so it would be for the best if he''s the one promoted to the Foundation Building Realm first," said Fang Tingjian.


    No one dared to refute Fang Tingjian''s words.


    Fang Mosheng secretly contemted that if Fang Lingxing could enter the Purple Pole Dao Academy, then it wasn''t a big deal to give Fang Chen the Foundation Building Pill.


    "Fang Jue, you don''t have to refuse. Fang Chen told us just now through transmission that you should be the one to have the token," said Fang Tingjian with a faint smile.


    "Fang Chen didn''t just win us the token, he also fought for our honor. Even if it¡¯s for our sake, please ept it."


    Fang Wanli smiled. "If we don''t ept it, wouldn''t it make the people below feel sad?"


    Everyone suddenly understood why Fang Tingjian wanted to give Fang Jue the token. It turned out Fang Chen was the one who said to do so!


    "Ancestors, Fang Chen is just a Qi Refining Realm cultivator. He doesn''t know how to consider the bigger picture and make long-term arrangements. He only acts on impulse. I hope you will reconsider, ancestors," said Fang Kun with sped hands and a bow.


    Fang Tingjian shook his head and handed the disciple token to Fang Jue. "I don''t have to reconsider. After the trade conference ends, you can go back to the Purple Pole Dao Academy''s Nascent Soul Realm cultivator. However, whether you can enter the Purple Pole Dao Academy will depend on your own ability."


    Fang Jue felt like he was dreaming. He had obtained a big opportunity like this just like that?


    Amidst the crowd, Fang Hao was excited. The brighter Fang Jue''s future was, the more he, his younger brother, would benefit.


    Fang Hao felt both guilty and grateful. ¡°Fang Chen is repaying enmity with kindness. I did make mistakes in the past, but thankfully, my brother is kind-hearted and didn''t offend him because of me.¡±


    Fang Ao and Jing Jing were very excited. Never did they expect that the third branch would be able to benefit from this day''s misfortune. And all of that was thanks to Fang Chen''s efforts alone!


    "<i>Dear, I once med you for bringing a disciple of unknown origin back to the third branch. I was short-sighted,</i>" Jing Jing transmitted to Fang Ao.


    "Exactly," responded Fang Ao reflexively. However, a few momentster, he suddenly realized what he had said.


    He turned to look at Jing Jing and found that her eyes had turned cold


    An embarrassed look appeared on Fang Ao''s face.


    "If there''s nothing else, let''s disperse. Focus your attention on the trade conference during this time. We don''t have any room for mistakes," said Fang Tingjian. He then left with Fang Wanli.


    After they left, Fang Ao and his wife also hurriedly left with their people.


    Fang Mosheng''s expression became extremely gloomy after everyone left.


    Fang Kun nced at him and said lightly. "Mosheng, don''t hold a grudge against the ancestor because of his arrangements."

 Chapter 399: Many Old Acquaintances

    <h4>Chapter 399: Many Old Acquaintances</h4>


    Chapter 399: Many Old Acquaintances


    Fang Mosheng gritted his teeth."Big Brother, you are on the ancestors'' side on this?"


    "The token won''t be Lingxing''s," said Fang Mosheng. "And now, they''re even going to take away her Foundation Building Pill. The third branch is reaping all the benefits! How can I not hold a grudge in my heart!"


    Fang Lingxing was standing silently on the side, her face pale with anger.


    Fang Kun spoke calmly. "At the very least, your daughter has kept Master Chen''s disciple token. Sometimes, having too many opportunities isn''t a good thing. As long as you can have a firm hold over just one, you can rise to prominence."


    With that, Fang Kun turned and left.


    Fang Mosheng still felt resentful as he watched Fang Kun leave.


    Fang Lingxing tried to console her father. She whispered softly, "Dad, what the family head said makes sense. At least we still have Master Chen''s disciple token."


    Fang Mosheng said bitterly, "I don''t care. I must vent this anger."


    Fang Lingxing was surprised. "How are you nning to do that, Dad?"


    Fang Mosheng nced around cautiously. "Let''s talk about it when we get back."


    He was clearly worried about people overhearing anything.


    The two hurried back to their cave dwelling and Fang Mosheng set up a spiritual barrier. After that, he turned to Fang Lingxing and said, "You don''t know about Fang Chen''s background, so let me fill you in."


    He then began recounting Fang Chen''s origins.


    Fang Lingxing listened with shock. She never expected Fang Chen''s background to be so legendary.


    Fang Mosheng said with a cold sneer, "Ancestor Fang Tingyuan offended a powerful figure that shouldn''t have been offended. That''s why Fang Tingjian didn''t want Fang Chen to join the Purple Pole Dao Academy. He feared that news may spread one way or the other and that the powerful figure would catch wind of it, provoking him.


    "I was going to stand with the family no matter what when it came to this matter, but not that these two old fellows have taken away your chance for the Foundation Building Pill, I can''t bear to do that anymore."


    Fang Lingxing was taken aback. ¡°What are you nning to do, Dad?¡±


    Fang Mosheng sneered. "I just need to spread this news. Although it''s been four hundred years since it happened, who can be sure that the powerful figure hasn''t left any informants in Grand Qian? That''s precisely what the two ancestors are worried about. I''ll personally confirm Fang Chen''s existence. If that person catches wind of this, I believe he won''t let a descendant of Fang Tingyuan slip away."


    Fang Lingxing looked worried. "If the two ancestors find out we did this, I''m afraid... they''ll expel us both from the family...."


    "It''s not like they''re true immortals. They are only at the Golden Core Realm. No one will ever know about this conversation between us," said Fang Mosheng confidently with a faint smile.


    Not far away, Fang Chen was sitting with his legs crossed on a chair. He had listened to their conversation from start to finish.


    Fang Chen stood up and left.


    Fang Mosheng''s ns would pose a risk to Fang Chen indeed, but Fang Chen wanted to know if the person who had set up Fang Tingyuan back then was still paying attention to the Grand Qian Empire.


    Everyone had thought that Fang Chen had left, but he had been there all along, observing the attitudes and positions of the various branches of the Fang Family, gaining some insights.


    For example, the Foundation Building Realm cultivator from the fourth branch had an unclear stance, but his demeanor and speech were quite in line with the true nature of a cultivator. He didn''t show any greed for the disciple token of the Purple Pole Dao Academy. Fang Xiu seemed to have been influenced by this person, as their personality was quite simr.


    The cultivator from the second branch was even more intriguing. He appeared neutral, but he was actually leaning toward the first branch.


    As for Fang Kun, he originated from the first branch and was now the head of the Fang Family. His attitude was not much different from what Fang Wanli mentioned before. Every word he said seemed to have the best interest of the family in mind; however, it could not be ruled out that this was all a ruse.


    Fang Chen''s divine soul soared into the sky above the Grand Qian Imperial Capital, silently sensing everything around him. Various chaotic conversations andughter filled his ears.


    Where his gaze reached, there were many colorful lights flickering, some were cultivators practicing, and some were formations.


    The entire Grand Qian Imperial Capital was enclosed in arge formation, which seemed to be on par with the Green Sky Mountain Protection Grand Formation. However, this formation still hadn''t been activated.


    As the trade conference drew near, cultivators from all corners of thend gathered in the imperial capital.


    Fang Chen could sense that the Golden Core Realm cultivators in the imperial city had exceeded a hundred. The auras were distributed all over the city, but the ce that had the most concentrated aura was the imperial pce.


    Below that were the Foundation Building Realm and Qi Refining Realm cultivators. Those had eithere on their own, hade with a few of their disciples, or were the followers of Golden Core Realm cultivators.


    The Immortal Origin District in the outer city was strikingly bustling today, with most shops being at max capacity.


    Suddenly, Fang Chen''s eyes fell on a bustling street that had shops selling cultivation resources lined on both sides. The Heavenly Treasure Pavilion was situated here, and many cultivators went to and fro.


    "So this is the legendary fifth-tier empire, Master? It''s indeed much more prosperous than the me Empire. Just on this street alone, I''ve seen several Foundation Building Realm cultivators," Zhang Xiaoke eximed in awe.


    The peasant woman and Yan Ruyue nced at him with amusement in their eyes.


    "You''ve be a cultivator only recently, so you haven''t been to many ces. The Grand Qian is one of the strongest fifth-tier empires in the Hidden Cloud Region," said the woman dressed as a peasant with a faint smile. "The families and sects here are not to be underestimated. Most of them have Golden Core Realm cultivators presiding over them, just like our sect, the Spirit Beast Valley. if we move to the Grand Qian, we''d only be considered second or third-rate at best."


    "Quite a lot of us havee from the me Empire, right? I wonder if the lord wille to this ce..." Zhang Xiaoke murmured to himself.


    Upon hearing Zhang Xiaoke''s words, the peasant woman and Yan Ruyue exchanged a nce, memories of what happened in the Heavenly Southern Sect were still fresh in their minds. The lord mentioned by Zhang Xiaoke was indeed not simple, perhaps he would also appear here.


    A hundred feet away from them, two young nuns were squatting in front of a stall and choosing items. There was a stern-looking senior nun standing behind them.


    Qing He pointed to one of the talismans and asked, "Sister Qingyao, look at this Substitution Talisman. Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s interesting? Should we buy it?"


    Qingyao shook her head gently. She preferred to buy some spiritual herbs. Not only could she use them herself, but in many cases, they could also help others.


    The senior nun, Abbess Zhu Yue, stood expressionless on the side, waiting for her two disciples to pick and choose at the stall. Her gaze asionally swept around, observing the cultivators in the area.


    At the end of the street corner, Yu Yuefan followed behind the Heavenly Southern Sect¡¯s ancestor.


    "Ancestor, are we going to visit the Jue Family? It''s one of the three pirs of the Grand Qian Imperial Capital. Do you know the predecessors of the Jue Family?" Yu Yuefan asked curiously.


    "I had some interactions with the top talent of the Jue Family''s younger generation. Since we''re here this time, let''s just greet him," said the ancestor with a faint smile.


    Not far from them, two graceful figures attracted the attention of many cultivators. These two women could be said to have top-notch beauty. The former had a cold and frosty appearance, giving off an aura that kept people away. As for thetter, although she bore a resemnce to the former, her eyes held a hidden vitality.


    "Dad, did you really see Grand Fortune Qi here? With so many Foundation Building Realm cultivators and even quite a few Golden Core Realm cultivators around, is there really Grand Fortune Qi around here?"


    At a tea stall on the street, several Daoists of varying ages were seated.


    Li Daoye nced around and fixed his gaze on a middle-aged Daoist, his eyes filled with distrust.


    "That¡¯s what the Observant Qi Technique told me. As for the specifics, we''ll have to wait and see," said the middle-aged Daoist, snorting coldly. After saying that, he didn''t pay any more attention to Li Daoye.


    A faint smile crossed Fang Chen''s eyes. "What a coincidence...."


    He was feeling quite happy to see so many old acquaintances.

 Chapter 400: Offering An Apology At The Doorstep

    <h4>Chapter 400: Offering An Apology At The Doorstep</h4>


    "Zhang Xiaoke''s cultivation ismendable. To be able to reach the fourth stage of Qi Refining Realm so quickly, he can be considered fast."


    "Li Daoye seems to have had a fortuitous encounter. He has reached the seventh stage of Qi Refining Realm."


    "Fang Qingyao''s cultivation has caught up to Abbess Qing He''s. She''s at the sixth stage of Qi Refining Realm."


    Fang Chen sighed in his heart. He was gratified to see that so many familiar faces had achieved their bit of sess on the immortal path.


    Then, his gaze fell on Fairy Yu.


    It had been a year since theyst met, and she had already be a cultivator.


    Fang Chen could tell from her profound and majestic spiritual energy that she had at least reached the eighth stage of the Qi Refining Realm.


    He knew that Fairy Yu''s talent was high, but for her to have made this much progress quickly indicated that her sect itself was not simple. Additionally, others may not be able to notice this, but Fang Chen could sense that Fairy Yu had a sword intent hidden within her.


    That sword intent was very powerful.


    Fairy Yu was a sword cultivator, just like Fang Chen.


    Standing beside Fairy Wu was the female sword cultivator Fang Chen had seen before.


    <i>She''s at the mid stage Golden Core Realm?</i>


    That female sword cultivator had a simr cultivation level to that of Qi You from the Demon Cloud Empire. She too was at the mid stage Golden Core Realm. She was much stronger than the likes of Fang Wanli and Jue Feichen!


    This kind of cultivation was rare even in the Grand Qian Empire, as most Golden Core Realm cultivators were stuck a the early stage.


    A hint of a smile appeared in Fang Chen''s eyes.


    The stronger the sect behind Fairy Yu, the happier he was.


    Fang Chen shifted his gaze toward the ancestor of the Heavenly Southern Sect and Yu Yuefan. There was no change in Yu Yuefan''s cultivation, which was normal. As one reached the Foundation Building Realm, a cultivator''s cultivation speed would dwindle. It wouldn''t be how it used to be in the Qi Refining Realm. One would need to cultivate for several decades just to break through a small stage.


    <i>Speaking of which, Yu Yuefan''s talent isn''t any worse than Jue Wudi''s. It¡¯s a pity that his background is worse than Jue Wudi''s, which sets him back significantly. If these two were to fight with each other, Jue Wudi would have around an eighty percent chance of winning.</i>


    Not long after, the ancestor of the Heavenly Southern Sect entered a tea house near the Jue Family with Yu Yuefan. A whileter, Jue Wudi walked out of the Jue Family and entered a quiet room in the tea house.


    When the ancestor of the Heavenly Southern Sect and Jue Wudi saw each other, they both smiled at each other.


    Fang Chen could tell from this that they had known each other for a long time.


    There was a broad smile on Jue Wudi''s face. "Second Senior Brother."


    The ancestor of the Heavenly Southern Sect''s smile widened as he stood up. "Third Junior Brother."


    Yu Yuefan was shocked.


    "What the?!"


    This young man was the ancestor''s junior brother?!


    How was that possible...?


    Fang Chen''s expression became serious. Jue Wudi''s background turned out to be even more impressive than he had imagined!


    He remembered that Immortal Sea Dragon had once talked with the ancestor of the Heavenly Southern Sect, and in their conversation, the Heavenly Southern Sect ancestor had mentioned a certain someone¡ªhis senior brother.


    ording to him, this senior brother was no weaker than the Jade Dragon Battle General. He was perhaps even stronger. He was at least at the Nascent Soul Realm.


    If Jue Wudi, the ancestor of the Heavenly Southern Sect, and that Nascent Soul Realm expert were brothers, then wouldn''t they have the support of a powerful figure from the Spirit Blood Sect behind them?!


    That powerful figure might have already reached the point where he could split his divine soul from his body, just like Fang Chen.


    The ancestor of the Heavenly Southern Sect smiled as he began to introduce Yu Yuefan to Jue Wudi, "Third Junior Brother, this is our newly established Foundation Building Realm disciple back in the sect. You two are simr in age. His talent is extraordinary."


    Yu Yuefan smiled bitterly, unsure of how to address Jue Wudi. His lips moved a few times, but he didn''t utter a word. In the end, he could only look at the ancestor, seeking help.


    Jue Wudi faintly smiled at him and said, "Since we are of simr age, let''s just call each other by our names. Jue Wudi, from the Jue Family."


    Yu Yuefan quickly responded, "I, Yu Yuefan, from the Heavenly Southern Sect, pay my respects to you."


    Jue Wudi nced at the ancestor of the Heavenly Southern Sect, his eyes showing a hint of curiosity.


    The ancestor of the Heavenly Southern Sect said, "Yu Yuefan, wait outside for a moment, I have some private matters to discuss with my junior brother."


    "Yes, please let me know if you need anything," Yu Yuefan responded promptly and left the room.


    The ancestor of the Heavenly Southern Sect waved his hand lightly and cast a forbidden formation before he turned to Jue Wudi.


    "How is the progress? Has the young master of the Dongfang Family of the Grand Wei Empire arrived in Grand Qian?" asked the ancestor.


    "The Dongfang Family has sent a few cultivators, but the young master has not arrived yet," replied Jue Wudi softly.


    "I heard that the Jade Dragon Battle General will personallye to oversee things? Senior Brother mentioned that his temper is not easy to deal with. When the timees, listen to hismands and be mindful of boundaries," reminded the ancestor.


    Jue Wudi nodded. "I understand, thank you for the reminder. I have a good rtionship with Tang Hu and his son. They are directly rted to the Jade Dragon Battle General, so I believe he won''t make things difficult for me."


    The ancestor of the Heavenly Southern Sect nodded with a smile. "When Grand Wei and Grand Qian sh, it will be like igniting a fire in the grass. At that time, various areas in Hidden Cloud will respond to each other, and we''ll get a constant stream of Blood Spirit Pills."


    Jue Wudi smiled. "You will be able to advance to the Golden Core Realm when that happens. Congrattions in advance."


    "The situation hasn''t unfolded yet. We can congratte each other when the timees," said the ancestor of the Heavenly Southern Sect.


    <i>The Spirit Blood Sect''s goal is not just to incite war between Grand Qian and Grand Wei, right? Are they nning to use this fire to burn through the entire Hidden Cloud Region?</i>


    Fang Chen''s mind shook as an unprecedented seriousness appeared in his eyes.


    From the conversation between the two, he sensed a hint of something ominous. If his spection was correct, perhaps the Spirit Blood Sect had alreadyid out ns in various areas of Hidden Cloud, which had more than five thousandrge and small empires.


    As soon as Grand Qian and Grand Wei shed, it would be like a spark of fire to oil. It would instantly ignite and turn everything around into ash!


    From Grand Xia, Guhe, Longdu, Yizhou, Qingsong, to the Frost Water Empire, Hongri, Yingcang, Tiankun...! All these kingdoms were within the Hidden Cloud Region! Even though Grand Qian and Grand Wei were fifth-tier empires within the Hidden Cloud Region, their conflict wouldn''t affect empires like the Azure Cloud Empire and the Hidden Immortal Empire.


    However, no one could guarantee that the Spirit Blood Sect hadn''t made any arrangements in those two fourth-tier empires.


    Perhaps Grand Qian and Grand Wei were just the fuse the Spirit Blood Sect was using to connect everything!


    "Second Senior Brother, do you want to meet Tang Hu at the Jade River Pavilion?" asked Jue Wudi.


    The ancestor of the Heavenly Southern Sect shook his head softly. "No need. I am here for the trade conference. What I need to do is in Heavenly Southern Sect and has nothing to do with them."


    Jue Wudi nodded lightly. "Alright."


    Fang Chen''s eyes appeared even more solemn.


    <i>Grand Qian and Grand Wei must not go to war. If they do, the entire Hidden Cloud Region will fall into chaos.</i>


    Feng Chen''s gaze swept over Jue Wudi and the ancestor of the Heavenly Southern Sect. "These people must die."


    Even if killing them meant that he''d be exposed to risks, it would still be worth it.


    Returning to his body, Fang Chen heard Li Cang''s voice travel from outside the quiet room''s door. "Young Master, Elder Fang Ao and the others have arrived."


    Fang Chen left the room and met Fang Ao and his wife along with Fang Jue and Fang Yun in the courtyard.


    Fang Yun''s face was wreathed in guilt. "Fang Chen, I''ve offended you many times in the past, please forgive me."


    Jiang Tianai followed closely behind Chang Fen, a bit curious.


    <i>Why was Sister Fang Yun apologizing? Did she offend him before? But both of them are good people...</i>


    Fang Chen smiled. "You just had a bit of an attitude and spoke harshly, but you aren''t ill-natured. You don''t have to apologize."


    Upon hearing this, Fang Jue immediately said, "See? told you! Fang Chen doesn''t mind these little things. You''re just a kid in his eyes."

 Chapter 401: Qingsong’s Message

    <h4>Chapter 401: Qingsong¡¯s Message</h4>


    Chapter 401: Qingsong¡¯s Message


    Fang Yun felt a deep sense of relief. She had prepared herself for Fang Chen''s mockery and sarcasm, but his unexpected attitude caught her off guard. The more he showed kindness, the more ashamed she felt.


    The significance of the Snake Spirit Fruit was immense. She knew that it was a priceless peak-grade, yellow-rank spiritual material worth at least a thousand low-grade spirit stones. Even her father would find it challenging to casually fork out such a valuable item.


    Meanwhile, Fang Ao looked pleased. In his eyes, Fang Chen had truly be a worthy descendant of the third branch.


    Fang Ao and Jing Jing both bowed respectfully and said, "Fang Chen, we came here to express our gratitude. Not only were Yun''er''s injuries healed because of you, but Fang Jue also gained a tremendous opportunity thanks to you."


    Fang Jue and Fang Yun quickly expressed their thanks with a bow.


    Seeing their sincerity, Fang Chen smiled. "Elder Fang Ao, there''s no need to be so polite. Since I reside in your third branch, I''ll naturally do what I can when needed."


    Pausing for a moment, Fang Chen continued, "I''ve been in seclusion for quite some time. I n to go out for a walk. If there''s nothing else, I''ll take my leave."


    Fang Jue''s eyes lit up. "Fang Chen, are you nning to visit the Immortal Origin District?"


    Fang Ao and Jing Jing used to dislike Fang Jue''s obsession with the Immortal Origin District. However, it was different now. If Fang Chen went to the Immortal Origin District, they hoped Fang Jue could apany him. They were eager for Fang Jue and Fang Chen to rub shoulders more often.


    Fang Chen shook his head and replied with a smile, "I''ve had enough fun therest time, so I probably won''t go."


    Fang Jue felt a bit disappointed.


    "C-Can Ie with you?" asked Jiang Tianai, her gaze hopeful.


    "It''s too chaotic in the imperial capitaltely." Fang Chen gently shook his head. "To avoid any trouble from the Jue Family, you''d better stay in the Fang n. With the two ancestors here, even if the Jue Family were to get any bolder, they wouldn''t dare to act recklessly."


    Jiang Tianai felt a bit disappointed, but she understood that Fang Chen was looking out for her.


    "Rest assured, she will be safe here in the third branch. If anything were to happen, it would happen to me first," said Fang Ao firmly.


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "Thank you."


    Fang Chen then walked toward the courtyard.


    Li Cang had been about to follow him out when he felt resistance as he took a step forward. Li Cang smiled bitterly, knowing that Fang Chen didn''t want him to follow.


    Fang Yun looked worried. "Dad, Fang Chen is going to have a contest with Jue Wudi in a few days. This contest isn''t fair to Fang Chen. Is there anything we can do to stop it?"


    Fang Jue''s expression became serious too.


    Fang Ao sighed softly. "We can''t stop it. Fang Chen is going out today to blow off steam. You don''t need to worry, he has his methods. Even if he loses, his life shouldn''t be in danger. At least, the two ancestors won''t just watch him die."


    He knew Fang Chen''s background, and now, among the Fang Family, only Fang Chen''s bloodline and Ancestor Fang Tingjian were most closely rted. No matter what, Ancestor Fang Tingjian wouldn''t stand by and watch Fang Chen die.


    "But if Fang Chen loses, he will have to leave Grand Qian..." Fang Yun murmured.


    Fang Ao noticed Jiang Tianai lowering her head, seeming quite guilty, so he stopped Fang Yun from speaking further. "Alright, let''s all go back for now. Fortune or misfortune, we cannot avoid it."


    As they were leaving, Jing Jing gave Chang Fen a brief reminder before giving Jiang Tianai some spirit stones and elixirs.


    Chang Fen felt quite envious inside. "Miss Tianai, these are Spirit Essence Pills. They will greatly benefit your cultivation. These five pills are quite valuable."


    Jiang Tianai immediately tightened her grip on the vial she was holding. "Then I''ll keep them for Young Master."


    Li Cang chuckled. "Young Master doesn''tck these. That''s precisely why the madam gave them to you. Miss Tianai, keep them for your own use."


    Jiang Tianai shook her head lightly. "I still want to give them to Young Master."


    Chang Fen and Li Can could only smile helplessly at that.


    ***


    Outside the city, in the Eighteen Districts. Profound Void Temple.


    Faint chanting of scriptures could be heard from the temple, asionally interrupted by the arrival of visitors with incense. Judging by their attire, these visitors were from poor families outside the city. Those truly noble and dignified would consider the Profound Void Temple ominous and would not easily set foot inside.


    Wu Ruochou was wearing a simple and elegant dress. She watered the flowers and asionally guided the visitors.


    Fang Chen walked closer and asked with a smile, "Senior Sister Wu, has Xia Jie out of seclusion?"


    Wu Ruochou was slightly surprised. "Young Master Fang?"


    Wu Ruochou was caught by surprise because she hadn''t been able to sense Fang Chen at all until he was very close to her.


    Suppressing her astonishment, she smiled and nodded lightly. "Junior Brother hase out of seclusion. He''s brewing soup right now."


    "I''ll go see him," said Fang Chen, nodding and walking toward the temple.


    Wu Ruochou suddenly spoke up. ¡°Young Master Fang, be careful when you face Jue Wudi in a few days. If he dies, the Jue Family won''t stand idly by.¡±


    Fang Chen smiled and nodded before disappearing from her view.


    Wu Ruochou shook her head lightly, a faint hint of irony shing in her eyes. "Everyone says Jue Wudi has a hundred percent chance of winning, but little do they know that Young Master Fang is a sword cultivator who attacks without mercy. He even defeated the Lin Family head with a single stroke of his sword."


    Although she rarely left the mountain, she asionally heard about the gambling wager between Jue Wudi and Fang Chen from the visitors. It was evident that this matter had spread widely, and in the eyes of the public, Fang Chen''s chances of winning were almost zero.


    Only Wu Ruochou knew that Fang Chen could cut through Foundation Building Realm cultivators effortlessly like he was cutting vegetables.


    In a small wooden house inside the temple, the scent of incense wafted out. Xia Ji, who hadn''t been seen for two months, was staring at the fire without moving.


    "Fang Da, there''s news from Qingsong Empire, and the situation seems a bit off," said Xia Ji, still focused on the fire.


    Fang Chen was slightly surprised. "What happened?"


    "The number one Marshall has been overthrown, and now the Wolf Army has been fully incorporated under the control of the Qingsong Empire¡¯s imperial family," Xia Ji exined, casting a nce at Fang Chen.


    "Once the trade conference is over, we need to go back and take a look."


    "You stay here and focus on your cultivation. I''ll go back and check things out," Fang Chen replied with a smile. "But before that, I need to resolve the situation in the capital."


    "Wait! The soup is done!"


    Xia Ji waved his sleeve to extinguish the fire. After that, he started to serve the soup. He poured a bowl for Fang Chen and another for himself. He hastily left for a few moments before returning again.


    "Tell me about the situation in the capital while we drink the soup," said Xia Ji with a smile.


    "This tastes good. Looks like you''ve picked up quite the skill," Fang Chenplimented. Taking another sip, he began, "The situation in the capital is dire. The Spirit Blood Sect is very ambitious this time. The entire Hidden Cloud Region is within their ns."


    "The entire Hidden Cloud Region!?" Xia Ji was shocked, and seriousness appeared on his face. "What are you nning to do?"


    "Our only advantage is that they are in the light, while we are in the dark. As long as we cut them off here, we can dy them for some time," exined Fang Chen.


    From the beginning, he knew that all he could do was dy the situation. Even if the Spirit Blood Sect''s n failed this time, they would surely start preparing for a second attempt. Trying to eradicate thempletely would be extremely difficult.

 Chapter 402: Im Looking for a Man

    <h4>Chapter 402: I''m Looking for a Man</h4>


    Fang Chen informed Xia Ji about the Spirit Blood Sect cultivators he had learned about during this period. After hearing this, Xia Ji couldn''t help but sigh deeply. "The tentacles of the Spirit Blood Sect are truly widespread. Even in the majestic fifth-tier empires, there are so many Spirit Blood Sect cultivators lurking around."


    Xia Ji looked at Fang Chen. "What about Jue Wudi, Fang Shang, and Tong Baizhou? Are they Spirit Blood Sect cultivators too? What about Fang Lingxing?"


    Fang Chen lightly shook his head. "She¡¯s probably not one of them."


    "So she''s just a foolish woman." Xia Ji sneered coldly, and the aura within him slowly rose. Xia Ji''s spiritual energy wasn''t how it used to be two months ago. It had far surpassed that. It was now profound and mighty.


    "You''ve reached the tenth level of the Qi Refining Realm...." said Fang Chen thoughtfully as he smiled. "Have you gained some insights during your seclusion?"


    Xia Ji nodded lightly. "I used to be toozy, and I always took ax approach when it came to my cultivation. Now, I need to put in more effort, so I won''t be too weak to help you in the future.¡±


    A faint smile appeared in Fang Chen''s eyes. He could tell that Xia Ji had some unknown fortuitous encounters. Otherwise, how could his cultivation soar in just a few months?


    "By the way, a few old friends havee to Grand Qian for the trade conference. I intend to take you to the Profound Void Temple to meet them. Would you mind saying a word to Master Chanyuan?" said Fang Chen.


    "No need, Master won''t mind these things." Xia Ji smiled and shook his head. He then curiously asked, "Who are these old friends? Do I know any of them?"


    "You know one of them," Fang Chen said.


    ***


    In the Buddha Hall, Fairy Yu respectfully bowed to the Buddha and then lit up an incense she had brought with her. She inserted it into the burner before her.


    The female sword cultivator beside her showed a faint disdain. "Junior sister, we cultivators don''t need to believe in these temple idols."


    "Senior Sister Long, I have believed in Buddhism since I was young, it''s already a habit." Fairy Yu smiled cunningly. "If you don''t want to stay here, Senior Sister, you can wait for me outside."


    "Alright, I''ll give you the time it takes for a stick of incense to burn, and then we should leave. Is this small temple worthy of our worship?" said the female sword cultivator as she turned to leave.


    Fairy Yu stood still for a moment. After making sure that the female sword cultivator had left, she quietly left the temple and scanned her surroundings.


    Wu Ruochou was passing by, and when she caught sight of Fairy Yu and her remarkable demeanor, unable to help herself, she stopped and asked, "Young Lady, what are you looking for?"


    Fairy Yu smiled. "I''m looking for a man."


    Wu Ruochou''s expression sank immediately.


    <i>Looking for a man?! In a temple?!</i>


    Wu Ruochou thought that Fairy Yu was intentionally making fun of the Profound Void Temple. Just as she was about to respond back, she heard Fairy Yu continue softly, "Do you happen to have a young man here who''s handsome like jade, unmatched in the world, and capable of captivating any woman with just a nce?"


    Wu Ruochou was caught by surprise. She swallowed back the words she had been about to say as she stared at Fairy Yu with a twinge of suspicion. "I don''t have anyone like that here...."


    Wu Ruochou then suddenly asked, "Is the man you''re looking for a member of the Fang Family?"


    Excitement shed in Fairy Yu''s eyes. "Exactly!"


    "Follow me," Wu Ruochou said.


    Wu Ruochou sighed softly in her heart, leading Fairy Yu to where Fang Chen was.


    On the way, Wu Ruochou asked, "Young Lady, what''s your rtionship with Young Master Fang?


    Fairy Yu smiled and replied with a question of her own. "Sister, what''s your rtionship with him?"


    Fairy Yu''s eyes were scrutinizing Wu Ruochou. She felt that the woman in front of her had an ethereal quality.


    Thinking that Fang Chen had invited her here, a hint of mncholy appeared in Fairy Yu''s smile.


    "Me? I don''t have much connection with Master Fang. He just has a very good rtionship with my junior brother," Wu Ruochou said.


    Fairy Yu''s eyes lit up. "A very good rtionship with your junior brother? Who¡¯s your junior brother?"


    "Xia Ji," Wu Ruochou replied.


    Hearing that, Fairy Yu suppressed her inner excitement. <i>No wonder Lord Fang came here to meet me. As it turns out the third prince is here too.</i>


    The third prince was one of the few friends Fang Chen had back in the capital. She never expected to see him in Grand Qian.


    <i>It''s been so long since I''ve seen Lord Fang. I wonder how he''s been doing. I haven''t been back to Grand Xia for so long. I miss home....</i>


    Before long, Wu Ruochou led her to a wooden house where a faint fragrance wafted from inside.


    "My junior brother likes to make soup. If he hasn''t drunk it all yet, you''re in for a treat." Wu Ruochou smiled. "You can go in by yourself. I won''t go in."


    With that, Wu Ruochou turned and left.


    Fairy Yu took a deep breath and slowly walked into the wooden house, where she immediately saw two familiar figures.


    As soon Fairy Yu caught sight of Fang Chen, she screamed, "Lord Fang!"


    She rushed into his arms like a whirlwind and sat on hisp.


    Xia Ji couldn''t help but tease her. "Fairy Yu, it''s been so long since west met too. Why are you acting like you don''t see me? You only have Fang Chen in your heart, and quite frankly, that hurts me."


    Little did Xia Ji expect, Fairy Yu continued to utterly ignore him. She tilted her head back in Fang Chen''s embrace and looked up at him.


    Her gaze seemed to want to take in every inch of Fang Chen''s face, burning it into her mind.


    Fang Chen smiled faintly. "Aren''t youing down yet?"


    "You seem to have be younger, my lord," pointed out Fairy Yu suspiciously. She didn''t seem to have any intention of pulling away from Fang Chen.


    "Your lordship hasprehended Buddhist teachings, hence the few years he had gained back," Xia Ji exined.


    Fairy Yu was somewhat surprised. "Buddhist teachings can do that?"


    Fang Chen frowned. "Don''t change the subject. Pleasee down already; this is a sacred ce for Buddhism, and your behavior is not appropriate,"


    Fairy Yu immediately stuck out her tongue, but she didn''t dare to keep messing around. She stood up and went behind Fang Chen and began to massage his shoulders.


    "I saw the mark you left me just now, my lord, and rushed over. However, I cannot stay here for long as my Senior Sister is waiting for me outside," Fairy Yu said.


    "Fairy Yu, which sect have you joined?" Xia Ji asked curiously.


    Xia Ji already knew that a Spiritual Marrow had appeared back in Grand Xia and that many cultivators had flocked there to pick disciples.


    ¡°Lord, Third Prince... Senior Sister and I bothe from the Void Immortal Sword Sect, which is an extremely mysterious sect. All cultivators in the sect follow the path of sword cultivation. I am a disciple of the Void Immortal Sword Sect''s Extreme Sword Peak. We both share the same master.¡± Fairy Yu continued, ¡°The Void Immortal Sword Sect is located in the Central Continent Empire. It''s quite far from here.¡±


    The Void Immortal Sword Sect?


    Surprise flickered in Fang Chen''s eyes.


    Supreme Immortal Pudu had stolen the sword embryo of Little Sword from the Void Immortal Sword Sect. He never expected that Fairy Yu would be a disciple of the Void Immortal Sword Sect!


    ¡°A first-tier empire?! Impressive!¡± Xia Ji''s eyes lit up. ¡°At this rate, I might have to call you my senior in the future!¡±


    ¡°Third Prince, I think your cultivation right now is even deeper than mine. I should be the one calling you senior...¡± Fairy Yu joked.


    Xia Ji chuckled proudly. "It''s not like I have an ordinary talent after all. Otherwise, why would my master take me as his disciple?¡±


    Fairy Yu smiled knowingly. She knew that the third prince wouldn''t grow conceited from these little things. They had known each other for so many years and were just joking around.


    ¡°Third Prince, back when we were still in Grand Xia, you and my lord had a lot of exchanges. We haven¡¯t met in a long time. I¡¯m very happy to see you again,¡± Fairy Yu said softly.


    Xia Ji''s face showed a hint of seriousness as he nodded slightly. ¡°I''m also very happy.¡±

 Chapter 403: Starlight Transmission Talisman

    Chapter 403: Starlight Transmission Talisman


    Fang Chen smiled. ¡°Fairy Yu, since you went to the Central Continent, howe you came all the way here to the capital of the Grand Qian Empire? These two ces are quite far apart, aren''t they?¡±


    "You may not know this, my lord, but the Void Immortal Sword Sect had been robbed of a sword embryo years back. The sect''s ancestor has recently sensed unusual movements from the sword embryo, which made us aware of its existence.


    "That''s why we, the sect disciples, are traveling everywhere in search of it! Senior Sister has a spell that can sense the embryo''s general whereabouts, and as we searched, we arrived at this ce. We coincidentally learned about the uing trade conference, so we wanted to see if the sword embryo is here,¡± Fairy Yu exined.


    A spell that can sense the whereabouts of the sword embryo?


    Fang Chen''s thoughts stirred. ¡°Have you found it then?¡±


    ¡°Not yet.¡± Fairy Yu sighed. ¡°Senior Sister sensed the aura of the sword embryo a while ago and brought me here, but after that, she couldn''t sense it anymore. We have to wait for the person who has it to activate the sword embryo before we can lock onto them.¡±


    Fang Chen sighed.


    <em>This is troublesome.</em>


    If he used Little Sword again, the mid stage Golden Core Realm female sword cultivator would be alerted to him. It was quite clear already that her temperament wasn''t good, as he had seen it once back in Grand Xia. If she found out that the sword embryo was in his possession, she wouldn''t hesitate to attack him.Fang Chen was confident he could survive in the face of the average Golden Core Realm cultivator, but this was a Golden Core Realm sword cultivator, so he didn''t even have a shred of confidence that he could win against her. Fortunately, he had the Shadow Buddha Technique, so even if he couldn''t win, he could easily run away.


    <em>Thankfully, I don''t need the help of Little Sword to defeat ordinary Foundation Building Realm cultivators.</em>


    With the third rank of the sword body and an immortal sword vein that allowed him to possess tens of times more spiritual energy than your average cultivator at the twelfth stage of the Qi Refining Realm, Fang Chen still had extraordinary battle prowess even without Little Sword.


    "Lord, this is the Void Immortal Sword Sect''s Starlight Transmission Talisman. Unlike ordinarymunication talismans, it can be used tens of thousands of times. This is for you, and I have another one. This way, we can stay in constant contact when Senior Sister is not around," said Fairy Yu as she waved her hand, producing a jade talisman with a greenish hue. She waved her hand again and fished out another one.


    There seemed to be some kind of connection between the two talismans.


    "This is the Central Continent''s gship Communication Talisman. Even if we are thousands of miles apart, as long as there is enough spiritual energy, we canmunicate with each other," Fairy Yu exined as she handed one of the talismans to Fang Chen.


    "You canmunicate even if you''re over thousands of miles apart? Incredible! Are there any more? Can I have a few?" eximed Xia Ji in surprise.


    Fairy Yu rolled her eyes at him. "Third Prince, a pair of these talismans is worth two thousand low-grade spirit stones. I had to save up for a long time just to buy these two!"


    "Two thousand low-grade spirit stones? Looks like your sect is quite wealthy," Xia Ji said somewhat disappointedly. "Did you spend all your spirit stones on these?"


    Fang Chen was slightly taken aback.


    Fairy Yu was very cheerful as she turned to Fang Chen. ¡°Yeah, I was thinking of buying a pair so that you and I can stay in touch regrly.¡±


    She continued, "I was afraid I wouldn''t see you again, but I didn''t expect to meet you here. Do you think this is fate, my lord? My master told me that the karma of all beings is destiny. I think you can''t get rid of me in this lifetime."


    Fang Chen yed with the talisman in his hand and smiled. "Have you spent all your spirit stones on these? Do you have enough spirit stones on you?"


    "I have enough. We have a lot of spiritual energy and we don¡¯t really need spiritual stones! Even if I don''t have any, it''ll only make my cultivation a tad bit slower. Not a big deal," Fairy Yu exined.


    Fang Chen suddenly asked. "Can I see your spiritual treasure?"


    Fairy Yu was slightly taken aback. She instinctively wanted to change the subject, but when she saw how Fang Chen opened his eyes and looked at her very seriously with his grayish-white pupils, she reluctantly took out her spiritual treasure.


    It was a very ordinary spiritual treasure with only five Soul Imprints. Given Fairy Yu''s background, she shouldn''t be using such an ordinary spiritual treasure. The Void Immortal Sword Sect should have provided her with a superior flying sword.


    "Don''t do this again. When you have spirit stones, you should first strengthen yourself. If you only have these weak treasures to rely on, you might end up losing your life if you''re ever met with danger!"


    Fang Chen''s tone was harsh. He was visibly angry.


    Xia Ji''s expression instantly became serious. He rarely saw Fang Chen angry. Thest time was when Li Huafeng from the Grand Brilliance Bureau caused the death of Fang Chen''s mentor in the military.


    Fairy Yu lowered her head. "I understand, my lord."


    "Give me your storage ring," Fang Chen said calmly.


    Fairy Yu obediently took off her storage ring and handed it to Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen took a nce inside and found nothing, save for a few pieces of women''s clothing. It was utterly empty.


    She had clearly used up everything she had to buy this pair of Communication Talismans.


    Fang Chen sighed and put ten thousand spirit stones into the storage ring before handing it back to her.


    "I''ve left some spirit stones for you to use. Don''t spend them on these things anymore. The path of cultivation is full of uncertainties; we never know when danger might strike. We can stay in touch as long as we''re alive. If you were to die, would I have to go to the Underworld to find you?"


    Fairy Yu''s mind trembled, looking at Fang Chen incredulously. "If I die, would you really go to the Underworld to find me?"


    Fang Chen thought for a moment then nodded gently. "I would."


    Fairy Yu''s eyes were full of smiles. "Don''t worry! I''ll strive to live well! I won''t let you suffer by going all the way to the Underworld to find me."


    Fairy Yu casually nced at the storage ring.


    Suddenly, her smile froze with astonishment, and she took a sharp breath.


    "My lord, in here, there is¡­!"


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "I''ve only put ten thousand low-grade spirit stones inside. I''ve kept the rest for myself. This should be enough for you."


    ¡°Ten thousand..." muttered Xia Ji as he silently stared at Fang Chen for a few moments. "Say, Fang Da, if I start calling you Lord Fang too, will you¡­?¡±


    Fang Chen chuckled. He slid Xia Ji''s storage ring off his finger and ced ten thousand spirit stones inside for him too. "You don''t need to call me that. I''ll give it to you anyway."


    Since Xia Ji had encountered his own kind of opportunity, Fang Chen hoped that these ten thousand low-grade spirit stones would be helpful to him.


    "Lord Fang, I thought that by joining the Void Immortal Sword Sect, I could support you in the future, but I didn''t expect this¡­. My lord, you truly deserve your title! No matter where you are, you can do things we can''t!" Fairy Yu''s eyes were practically shining with admiration. "Even the Foundation Building Realm senior brothers in my sect might not be able to fork out such arge sum of spirit stones."


    Xia Ji quickly peered inside the storage ring. And sure was, he found ten thousand spirit stones inside. A look of excitement appeared on his face. "Fang Da, you really hit it big!"


    Since Fang Chen had taken out twenty thousand spirit stones this directly, it meant that he had even more on him, so Xia Ji knew that he didn''t have to worry about him at all.


    Suddenly, Wu Ruochou''s voice traveled from outside. She sounded perplexed.


    "Junior Brother, Young Master Fang, there''s another person who wants to see you."


    Fang Chen smiled. "Zhang Xiaoke is here."


    Fairy Yu''s eyes lit up as she smiled. "Pancake Zhang?"


    Fairy Yu crossed to the door and took a look. She indeed saw Zhang Xiaoke standing behind Wu Ruochou with a somewhat excited expression.


    "Yu... Sister Yu?!" eximed Zhang Xiaoke in surprise when he saw Fairy Yu.

 Chapter 404: Buns

    Chapter 404: Buns


    Fairy Yu smiled ambiguously. "Little Pancake, you''re here too."


    Zhang Xiaoke blushed slightly. He immediately bowed respectfully. "Greetings, Sister."


    Fairy Yu smiled and said, "Come in."


    She then turned to Wu Ruochou. "Senior Sister, thank you."


    <em>No wonder. It looks like they''re old acquaintances,</em> Wu Ruochou thought to herself.


    Wu Ruochou nodded at Fairy Yu then turned and left.


    Zhang Xiaoke stepped into the wooden house and saw Fang Chen and Xia Ji inside, which caused his expression to turn into one of excitement.


    Zhang Xiaoke bowed. "Lord. Third Prince.¡±


    "Well, well, you''ve grown so tall after all these years. I remember you were only this tall when I left the capital," said Xia Ji, smiling broadly as he gestured with his hand around his waist. "Right, Little Pancake?"Zhang Xiaoke smiled. "Many years have passed, Third Prince, and your demeanor is still the same."


    Fang Chen nodded lightly.


    "You''re taller nowpared to thest time I saw you."


    Fairy Yu was surprised. "Last time?" she repeated.


    "Have you met Little Pancake again after he was taken in as a disciple, my lord?" asked Fairy Yu.


    Zhang Xiaoke''s face immediately revealed a proud expression. "Sister, you may not know this, but I met the lord once in the me Empire. Back then, my lord was truly domineering. Not only did he defeat a Foundation Building Realm cultivator, but he also severely injured and forced a Golden Core Realm cultivator to flee."


    Fairy Yu sighed helplessly. "It''s a pity I wasn''t there¡­."


    She really wished she could always be by Fang Chen''s side, to see what he saw, and to understand his thoughts.


    "Xiaoke, are you here with Elder Su to attend the trade conference?" Fang Chen asked.


    Zhang Xiaoke nodded softly. "ording to Master, it''s possible to buy extremely high-grade spiritual beast eggs at the trade conference. Our practice at Spirit Beast Valley is closely rted to spiritual beasts, so Master intends to find me a good spiritual beast this time around."


    "The Grand Qian Imperial Capital isn''t very peaceful. Be vignt while apanying Elder Su." Fang Chen nodded. "If you need any help,e to the Fang Family and look for me. I am currently practicing there."


    Zhang Xiaoke was somewhat shocked. "The Fang Family? One of the three pirs of the Grand Qian Empire?"


    He had learned from his master about the terrifying strength of Grand Qian''s three pirs before he came here.


    He even came to learn that there were two Golden Core Realm cultivators in each pir. The cultivation of each of these two was profound. They were no ordinary Golden Core Realm cultivators. This was something that even the former master of the Sea Dragon Sect couldn''tpare to!


    "My ancestors are connected to the Fang Family, and my grandfather wanted me toe here so I can acknowledge our roots." Fang Chen smiled. "You know I have to listen to the old man."


    "I see."


    Zhang Xiaoke and Fairy Yu suddenly understood. No wonder they met the lord here.


    After chatting for a while, Fang Chen took Zhang Xiaoke''s storage ring and gave him two thousand low-grade spiritual stones.


    Zhang Xiaoke was astonished when that happened, and he immediately began to repeatedly say, "I can''t ept these spiritual stones, my lord."


    "Take them. Your lord is wealthy now, and these spiritual stones are for you to have a better cultivation environment." Xia Ji lightly smiled and continued, "Aren''t you going to buy spiritual beast eggs? Good quality spiritual beast eggs don''te for cheap."


    Fang Chen nodded softly. "Keep them. If there''s nothing else, you should go back to Elder Su''s side for now. Grand Qian has been very chaotictely, so protect yourself well."


    "Thank you, my lord," Zhang Xiaoke said, standing still.


    "Is there anything else?" Fang Chen asked.


    With a shy smile on his face, Zhang Xiaoke said, "Can we meet again, my lord? Can it be in a few days?"


    Fang Chen nodded with a smile. "We might meet again in a few days. Focus on your cultivation for now and don''t think about other things too much."


    With that, Zhang Xiaoke happily turned around and left.


    "Fairy Yu, how long will you and your master stay here?" Fang Chen asked.


    "We''ll be here for a while, my lord," said Fairy Yu.


    She was quite smart and was able to guess that there was something amiss, so she asked, "Is there any troublesome matter that needs to be dealt with?"


    "There is, but I don''t want you to be involved openly," Fang Chen said with a light smile. "You can think it over. If it''s troublesome, I''ll handle it myself."


    "Please tell me, my lord." Fairy Yu smiled. "No matter how troublesome it is, with my master here, there''s nothing we can''t handle!"


    "The Spirit Blood Sect is nning to assassinate the Grand Wei''s Dongfang Family''s Young Master during the trade conference. They are confident that as long as the young master of the Dongfang Family dies in Grand Qian, it will lead to war between the Grand Qian and Grand Wei," Fang Chen whispered. "At that time, the mes of war will spread throughout the entire Hidden Cloud Region, making it easy for the Spirit Blood Sect to refine the Blood Spirit Pill relying on the casualties of the war.


    "If possible, I hope you can find a way to have your senior sister take care of that young master from the Dongfang family. When you see him, I want you to make sure that no one kills him."


    Pausing for a moment, Fang Chen continued, "However, the premise is that you do not expose yourself. The Spirit Blood Sect has powerful individuals in the Central Continent too."


    Fairy Yu pondered for a moment, then smiled and nodded softly. "You can rest assured, my lord. You can leave this to me."


    Suddenly, a voice echoed through the Profound Void Temple. "Junior Sister, we should leave now."


    Upon hearing that voice, Fairy Yu hurriedly told Fang Chen to contact her using the Starlight Transmission Talisman, then hastily left the wooden house.


    "Fang Da, if Fairy Yu manages to persuade her senior sister, the Spirit Blood Sect''s n will bepletely foiled, but... her senior sister''s cultivation might beparable to that of Tong Hu?" Xia Ji asked in a low voice.


    Fang Chen smiled. "She''s a sword cultivator at the Golden Core Realm. Tong Hu might not even be able to withstand a single move from her."


    Xia Ji was secretly shocked.


    <em>A Golden Core Realm sword cultivator!?</em>


    If Fairy Yu''s senior sister was at the Golden Core level, then what was their master''s cultivation level?!


    They had to be in the Nascent Soul Realm at the very least!


    Xia Ji sighed deeply. "I never thought that the little girl covered in pustules who begged for food all the way from the southern region to the northern region would one day be a sword cultivator¡­."


    Pausing for a moment, Xia Ji looked at Fang Chen. "Do you remember that day when we got into a fight on the street? Remember how I treated you to some buns after the fight? Those had been thest two coins I had on me. Your family was strict about money back then, and you didn''t get much pocket money. Little Yu just nced at you, and you gave the buns to her, right?"


    Fang Chen smiled. "I remember, what about it?¡±


    Xia Ji chuckled and said, "That shop''s buns were really delicious. I wonder when we can go back and buy some from that old man again."


    Fang Chen hesitated for a moment, then nodded softly. "We''ll be able to go back soon. If you can''t go back, I''ll bring you two buns from him."


    Xia Ji nodded with a smile. "That''s a deal then."


    ***


    Leaving the Profound Void Temple, Fang Chen arrived at Lord Tiger''s residence.


    The middle-aged man looked at Lord Tiger while sighing. "Big Brother, you''ve been living quitefortably here these years. I heard that without some means, you can''t even settle in the inner city. The spiritual energy here is rich, it¡¯s indeed a good ce."


    Li Daoye was squatting at the side and staring at a shadow, his expression thoughtful.

 Chapter 405: Divination of the Stars

    Chapter 405: Divination of the Stars


    "Big Eyed Li, do you think I''m living well here? You don''t know how I''ve been living these years. Life was so tough around here that everyone around me left. Now, only a distant rtive of mine remains by my side as a helper," Lord Tiger immediatelymented, and the guest beside him couldn''t help but lower their head.


    Lord Tiger suddenly looked at Li Daoye. "Hey, what are you doing?"


    "Something''s not right here. I have a feeling there''s something amiss, but I can''t quite put my finger on it." Li Daoye frowned, then suddenly started to calcte with his fingers. At this moment, an inexplicable force was flowing at his fingertips, but no one else could see it except for Fang Chen. He could see a white gas surging unpredictably as Li Daoye calcted with his fingers.


    Lord Tiger scrunched up his brow as he nced at the shadowy area. He couldn''t see how troubled Nong Guiquan''s expression was right now. To be exposed before by that person was one thing, but now, even the descendants of his sworn brothers could detect him?


    "Did I make a mistake in my cultivation?" Nong Guiquan began to doubt himself.


    Lord Tiger was somewhat astonished as he looked at the middle-aged Daoist. "What is he calcting? Aren''t you from the Qi Observing lineage? What''s with this nonsense?"


    "It''s true that my lineage practices the art of Qi Observation, but by the time the inheritance had reached my generation, it had been broken. This kid has had some luck recently and gained some opportunities in a certain ce, and he joined the Yi Sect!"


    The middle-aged Daoist said with frustration, "As you know, our Qi Observing lineage conflicts with the Yi Sect. The two paths cannot be practiced together. Otherwise, even if we live longer, it won''t be enough topensate for the consumption. Now, I n to start anew and pass on my Qi Observing technique to another sessor."


    "Patriarch, it will take time to nurture a new sessor. I suggest we choose someone from the younger generation of the Eight Trigrams Sect," another Daoist spoke up.Fang Chen remembered this Daoist; his name was Mingjing, an elder of the Eight Trigrams Sect. He hade to Grand Xia looking for Li Daoye once before, but he fled with his tail between his legs when he came to learn that Li Daoye had been swept into the affairs of the Spirit Blood Sect. He never returned to Grand Xia since then.


    The middle-aged Daoist''s eyes widened as if they were about to pop out of their sockets. "The younger generation? The youngest among them is already fifty-eight. How am I supposed to choose from them? Even if they have the talent, why would I pin my hopes on those worthless bunch?"


    The middle-aged Daoist''s eyes faintly emitted a divine light. The lineage of Qi Observing had exceptional vision. It was no wonder Lord Tiger called him "Big-Eyed Li."


    "Don''t argue with each other¡­ Ah, wait a moment, I''ve figured it out!" Li Daoye pointed to the shadowy corner, his voice trembling. "There''s someone here!"


    Big Eyed Li was surprised. "Someone''s here, you say? Could it be Fourth Brother, Big Brother?"


    Lord Tiger was dumbfounded, and he stared at Li Daoye with astonishment. "What kind of strange technique did your son inherit? How can he even figure out where Fourth Brother is?"


    Nong Guiquan''s expression darkened as he walked out of the shadow and respectfully called out to Big Eyed Li, "Second Brother."


    Fang Chen''s expression became somewhat peculiar. <em>It seems they alle from the Heavenly Doom Hall.</em>


    He hadn''t expected the Eight Trigrams Sect to have such an origin. However, if they were from the Heavenly Doom Hall, why would they reside in a mere sixth-tier empire?


    Lord Tiger had managed to even thrive and reside within the Grand Quan Imperial Capital.


    Li Daoye began to proudly boast, "Dad, did you see that? There really was someone in there! My Divination of the Stars technique is better than the Eight Trigrams Sect''s Qi Observing, right?"


    Big Eyed Li''s expression had turned unpleasant, but he had to admit that the Divination of the Stars technique was indeed slightly stronger than their Qi Observing lineage¡ªjust slightly, though!


    "Second Brother, why did you bring your family to Grand Qian? Are you nning to participate in the uing trade conference?" Nong Guiquan asked coldly.


    "If you''re short of money, don''t ask me for any. I''ve also been having a hard time recently," Lord Tiger added.


    "Big Brother, why are you so afraid that I''ll borrow money from you?" Big Eyed Li started, "To be honest, I came here because I felt something strange about the atmosphere here. A while ago, I observed the celestial phenomena..."


    "Dad, weren''t you going to the outhouse in the middle of the night?"


    "Shut up! Can''t I take a look at the celestial phenomena while I''m at it?" Big Eyed Li snorted coldly, then continued, "I saw that the celestial phenomena in this direction were unpredictable, indicating that there might be a great opportunity. So, I thought I''de over and try my luck.


    "As you know, my unlucky master offended a crazy woman back then and was forced to hide in the me Empire. Over the years, the fortune of our Eight Trigrams Sect has been declining. If we don''t encounter a major stroke of luck soon, our lineage will be cut off."


    As he spoke, Big Eyed Li nced at Li Daoye, and a hint of killing intent suddenly shed in his eyes.


    Li Daoye was stunned for a moment, then he looked at Big-Eyed Li and eximed, "Dad, were you just thinking of killing me?"


    Big Eyed Li ignored him and turned to Lord Tiger. "Big brother, you''re well-informed. Do you know why the celestial phenomena here are so unpredictable?"


    "Unpredictable? Isn''t it because of the trade conference? Nowadays, there''s fiercepetition in the Grand Qian Imperial Capital, with over a hundred Golden Core Realm cultivators. Perhaps that''s the reason," Lord Tiger pondered.


    Big Eyed Li thought for a moment, then suddenly smiled and said, "My Qi Observing technique is never wrong. Perhaps at the trade conference, our Eight Trigrams Sect will find an opportunity!"


    Fang Chen felt speechless for a moment. <em>What the Eight Trigrams Sect Master sees is probably rted to the Spirit Blood Sect. Instead of an opportunity, it''s more likely to be a bad omen¡­.</em>


    Fang Chen looked at Li Daoye. He hadn''t expected this kid toe across such an opportunity. His Divination of the Stars technique was indeed remarkable.


    If it weren''t for his ability to project his consciousness, he wouldn''t have been able to see Nong Guiquan in the shadows. However, Li Daoye managed to calcte it.


    And that was at his current cultivation level, which was at the ninth stage of the Qi Refining Realm.


    Fang Chen nodded slightly. "Not bad."


    Li Daoye had truly been able to encounter an opportunity of his own! Considering his cultivation level back in Grand Xia, he had experienced a significant surge in strength.


    Li Daoye suddenly turned around and looked toward where Fang Chen was. "Wait, it seems there''s someone else here."


    Everyone was surprised.


    Big Eyed Li frowned. "Other than your Fourth Uncle, who else has such abilities? Don''t be so easily startled!"


    "Dad, I''ve already mastered the Divination of the Stars technique. As of now, I''ve merged with the Heavenly Dao, and all things are within my calctions!" Li Daoye''s voice was heavy. "You can''t deny my skills."


    A hint of killing intent flickered in Big Eyed Li''s eyes again. Just as he was about to reprimand him, he noticed that Lord Tiger and Nong Guiquan looked very strange.


    "Young Master Fang, are you here?" Lord Tiger asked tentatively.


    Big Eyed Li and Ming Jing looked puzzled.


    "Is there really someone else?"


    Before long, a figure emerged from the shadows.


    Nong Guiquan was initially shocked, but then a hint of relief appeared on his face. He wasn''t wrong. It was indeed because Li Daoye''s technique was too powerful.


    Big Eyed Li was surprised. "Isn¡¯t this Fourth Brother''s¡­?"


    "I told you so." Li Daoye''s face showed a hint of pride. But when he saw Fang Chen''s face clearly, his hair stood on end, and he eximed in disbelief, "Lord Fang?!"


    <em>Lord Fang?!</em>


    What''s going on here!?


    Lord Tiger and Nong Guiquan were both bewildered by how Li Daoye had addressed the neer.


    Did these two know each other?

 Chapter 406: A Golden Core Realm Cultivator Might Be Killable After All

    Chapter 406: A Golden Core Realm Cultivator Might Be Kible After All


    After Li Daoye called out to Lord Fang, Big Eyed Li immediately reacted, his expression bing very strange. Ming Jing, the Daoist beside him, took one look at Fang Chen and immediately sucked in a breath of cold air. He hastily turned to leave but Big Eyed Li grabbed him.


    "Patriarch, this is a dangerous ce," said Ming Jing, struggling as Big Eyed Li held him from leaving.


    "<em>Let''s assess the situation first. Don''t be hasty,</em>" Big Eyed Li transmitted his voice.


    Taking a deep breath, Ming Jing reluctantly agreed to wait and see.


    Fang Chen smiled and said, "Li Daoye, it''s been a long time."


    Li Daoye was puzzled. "Lord Fang, what are you doing here? The technique you just used... isn''t it simr to my Fourth Uncle''s Shadow Buddha Technique?"


    Nong Guiquan smiled and interjected, "Your eldest uncle sold this technique to this young master."


    "I see!"


    Everyone suddenly understood, but Big Eyed Li''s expression immediately turned into one of shock.No ordinary person could cultivate this technique. Over the years, only Nong Guiquan had been able toprehend its essence. But now, this "Fang Chen," who apparently had a special background, had been able to do so too?


    Fang Chen smiled. "Why am I here? That''s a long story. I''m rather surprised to see that you''re acquainted with Lord Tiger."


    With that, Lord Tiger amiably introduced both sides to each other.


    Just as Fang Chen suspected, Big Eyed Li used to be a member of the Heavenly Doom Hall when he was young, and he and Lord Tiger, along with Nong Guiquan, were sworn brothers.


    Lord Tiger was the eldest, Big Eyed Li was the second, and Nong Guiquan was the fourth.


    "He actuallyes from the Fang Family of Grand Qian... No wonder, no wonder," Big Eyed Li muttered to himself, lost in thought.


    He had once heard from his son about Fang Chen and his background. He even told him about that mysterious powerhouse who appeared when the Spirit Marrow appeared in Grand Xia. It seemed as though the mysterious expert was possibly from the Fang Family!


    "<em>Second brother, does your child know this person? This person''s background is not simple, there seems to be a mighty Nascent Soul Realm cultivator behind him</em>," Lord Tiger''s voice sounded in Big Eyed Li''s ear.


    Big Eyed Li was shocked. Lord Tiger addressed him as "Second Brother" right now, so he knew that he had to be very serious! That was why Big-Eyed Li immediately believed Lord Tiger''s words!


    Big-Eyed Li was secretly amazed, and he muttered to himself, "Not Golden Core, but Nascent Soul Realm? Then his background is even more significant than I imagined."


    "Lord Fang, I didn''t expect your background to be so illustrious. So you''re a member of the Fang Family, one of the three pirs of Grand Qian. It''s no wonder," said Li Daoye, sighing with emotion. A momentter, he enthusiastically suggested, "It''s fate that we met here. How about we go out for a meal together?"


    Fang Chen nodded with a smile. "Sure."


    He had originally nned to have a brief discussion with Nong Guiquan and assign some tasks, especially considering that the trade conference was about to begin. But now that Fang Chen had seen Li Daoye''s abilities, he changed his mind.


    As the two of them left together, Ming Jing couldn''t hold back any longer and said to Big-Eyed Li, "Patriarch, this person once had an enmity with the Spirit Blood Sect. It was not easy for the young patriarch to finally clear up the rtionship with him. If he starts rubbing shoulders with him again it might affect the Eight Trigrams Sect!"


    "That was a long time ago. In this vast world, in the Grand Qian Imperial Capital, what is there to fear from the Spirit Blood Sect?" Big Eyed Li shrugged indifferently. "With such an outstanding background, it''s a good thing for that damn brat to befriend him."


    "It''s hard to say, but this time, the fortune of Grand Qian might just fall on this person," Big Eyed Li remarked.


    "The Spirit Blood Sect?" Lord Tiger took a sharp breath. He and Nong Guiquan exchanged a look, both seeing the shock in each other''s eyes.


    "What''s going on!? How is he involved with the Spirit Blood Sect?" Lord Tiger hurriedly inquired. This was not a good thing. He had conducted several transactions with Fang Chen. If Fang Chen had any enmity with the Spirit Blood Sect and they sought revenge, he wouldn''t be able to escape!


    "It''s actually not a big deal, just some minor matters." Big Eyed Li waved it off casually. "In fact, there hasn''t been much activity around it, and I haven''t heard of any retaliatory measures from the Spirit Blood Sect. Big Brother, don''t worry. What is the Spirit Blood Sect? They are nothing more than parasites lurking in the world. Just a bunch of bloodsucking demons. Do they dare show themselves openly?"


    "Well, that''s true."


    Lord Tiger and Nong Guiquan nodded thoughtfully.


    Having spent a long time in the cultivation world, they had heard some stories about the Spirit Blood Sect. However, they also knew that there were many forces suppressing the Spirit Blood Sect. If the real powerful individuals found out where Spirit Blood Sect cultivators were, they would immediately send people to eradicate them. That meant that the Spirit Blood Sect mostly existed in the shadows and dared not show themselves.


    ***


    Fang Chen and Li Daoye found a rtively quiet teahouse to dine in. The teahouse was located near the city gate.


    Since the trade conference was about to begin, the inner city was bing crowded. In addition to the disciples that were apanying their masters, there were also the followers these cultivators had under them.


    After settling down in a quiet room in the teahouse, Li Daoye immediately set up a spiritual barrier. Then, he looked at Fang Chen with a somewhat solemn expression.


    "Lord Fang, are you here because of the Spirit Blood Sect?" Li Daoye asked.


    Fang Chen smiled and asked, "Why do you think so?"


    Li Daoye said, "Why would you stay here in Grand Qian for so long if not for the Spirit Blood Sect, Lord Fang? I returned to Grand Xia once since I wanted to see you again for old times'' sake, but I couldn''t find you. At that time, I felt something was amiss and realized that you were probably held up by something."


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "You''re right. There are traces of Spirit Blood Sect cultivators here in Grand Qian."


    Li Daoye pondered for a moment, then said, "Lord Fang, the Spirit Blood Sect has cultivators in Grand Qian... their cultivation might be extremely formidable, perhaps they might be ancestors who are in the Golden Core Realm¡­.¡±


    He looked at Fang Chen and continued, "We don''t have the power to stop such powerhouses. Lord Fang, what are your ns?"


    "Golden Core Realm ancestors might not be as invincible as you think they are," Fang Chen murmured softly. "What we need to consider now isn''t their cultivation, but how many Spirit Blood Sect cultivators are still hidden out there. I''ve only managed to find a few of them. The rest has yet to reveal themselves."


    "Golden Core Realm ancestors might not be invincible¡­?" Li Daoye muttered to himself as he thought about what Fang Chen said.


    His fingers started to tap against each other under the table as he tried to calcte something. After some time, he trembled while staring at Fang Chen in a daze.


    His Divination of the Stars told him that the person in front of him was extremely dangerous!


    "Can your Yi Sect Technique determine who the Spirit Blood Sect cultivators are?" Fang Chen asked softly.


    "To specifically determine who they are... I''m afraid my cultivation isn''t advanced enough for that. I am afraid if I attempt to do it anyway, it will deplete my lifespan," Li Daoye replied with a wry smile. "However, I can estimate a rough number. Would that be helpful to you, Lord Fang?"


    Fang Chen nodded. "It would."


    "Please wait a moment, Lord Fang."


    Li Daoye suddenly sat cross-legged and softly ced his hands on his knees, with his fingertips emitting a subtle aura.


    Fang Chen''s divine soul projected outwards. He clearly saw two streams of white energy circting around Li Daoye¡¯s fingertips. The energy became denser and denser until it eventually formed two white dragons coiling around his body.


    Li Daoye''s face slowly lost its color, and the ck hair at his temples turned visibly gray at a rapid pace.


    Fang Chen''s gaze became solemn. "It¡¯s not easy to use this technique. Looks like he has to pay a huge price to do so!"

 Chapter 407: Everyones Here!

    Chapter 407: Everyone''s Here!


    Suddenly, the "white dragons'''' on Li Daoye''s body became even more violent, crazily drilling toward his seven apertures. With a ''pu'' sound, he sprayed out a stream of blood, and the white energy dissipated abruptly.


    Li Daoye opened his eyes, looking somewhat weary. He softly said, "In the Grand Qian Imperial Capital, there are probably around a hundred Spirit Blood Sect cultivators. Lord, this is no joke. If you''re not careful, you could faceplete destruction."


    "A hundred?" Fang Chen''s gaze became extremely serious. He hadn''t expected there to be so many Spirit Blood Sect cultivators in the Grand Qian Imperial Capital. Among these hundred, did it include people like Tong Hu? How many of them were at the Golden Core Realm?


    Fang Chen''s expression changed suddenly. "Hold on..."


    In reality, there might not be so many Spirit Blood Sect cultivators in the Grand Qian Imperial Capital. It was highly unreasonable for the Spirit Blood Sect to gather such arge number of powerful cultivators in one ce. The Spirit Blood Sect cultivators estimated by Li Daoye likely included outsiders like the Elder of the Heavenly Southern Sect.


    With many cultivators at the Golden Core, Foundation Building, and Qi Refinement Realms attending the trade conference, there were bound to be Spirit Blood Sect cultivators among them!


    "If only Junior Sister Qing He were here. She can see wandering souls, and Spirit Blood Sect cultivators surely have many wandering souls entwined around them," Li Daoye said.


    Fang Chen smiled. "She''s here."


    Now that Li Daoye had reminded him, Fang Chen decided to ask Abbess Zhu Yue about her attitude towards this matter.Li Daoye''s eyes lit up suddenly. "She''s here too? That''s great! It''s been a long time since Ist saw her."


    ¡°Abbess Zhu Yue is here too! Remember to watch your mouthter, don''t speak recklessly. With her temper, she won''t let it slide," Fang Chen reminded before leaving the room.


    "Abbess Zhu Yue is here too?!" Li Daoye was taken aback, instinctively getting up to leave, but after a moment''s thought, he sat back down. "What am I afraid of? I''m a skilled practitioner of the Yi Sect now. She''ll have to give me some face!"


    In the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion.


    A servant with a smile on his face led Abbess Zhu Yue and the others to the guest seat.


    "What would Abbess like to buy? For the trade conference, all items at Heavenly Treasure Pavilion are discounted," the servant said.


    "Do you have Spirit Essence Pills?" Abbess Zhu Yue nced at Fang Qingyao and Qing He, asking the servant casually.


    "We do, but there are only a few left. As you know, this type of pill is in high demand on regr days, and now with the discount, every sect ising to buy some for their disciples," the servant replied quickly. "We happen to have a set of six left. At the discounted price, it''s a total of five hundred low-grade spirit stones. Would that be eptable?"


    "Five hundred? That''s indeed cheap," Abbess Zhu Yue nodded lightly, taking out the spirit stones and handing them to the servant. "Thank you."


    "Please wait a moment," the servant took the spirit stones and left.


    "Spirit Essence Pills, three for you and Junior Sister Qingyao each, not more, not less," Abbess Zhu Yue said to Qing He with a faint smile.


    "Master, you and Junior Sister Qingyao can have them. I don''t really need them. I feel like my current cultivation level is sufficient," Qing He said. "In the future, Junior Sister Qingyao will have to support the Concealed Moon Hermitage, so she needs these pills more than I do."


    "Senior Sister Qing He, if you don''t want them, I won''t either. Let''s just give them all to Master," Fang Qingyao said somewhat helplessly.


    "The cultivation techniques you two practice are extraordinary. When you reach the sixth level of the Qi Refining Realm, there will be a bottleneck to ovee, and once you break through, your cultivation will progress smoothly," Abbess Zhu Yue said calmly. "Back then, my Master, your ancestor, took me out to buy Spirit Essence Pills. Three Spirit Essence Pills will be enough for you to ovee it."


    Upon hearing this, Fang Qingyao and Qing He fell silent. They knew that five hundred low-grade spirit stones were definitely not a small amount for Abbess Zhu Yue. This amount could easily buy an excellent yellow rank mid-grade spiritual treasure, yet Abbess Zhu Yue chose to use it to purchase Spirit Essence Pills for them.


    After a dozen moments, the servant came back with a smile on his face and handed a bottle to Abbess Zhu Yue. "Abbess, here are six Spirit Essence Pills."


    Abbess Zhu Yue nodded gently, opened the bottle, and took a nce. Indeed, there were six Spirit Essence Pills inside, and the quality was quite good.


    Just as she was about to leave with her disciples, Wu Jiuquan suddenly arrived with several young men.


    "Where are those six Spirit Essence Pills?" he asked the servant.


    The servant was slightly startled and didn¡¯t know how to respond.


    Wu Jiuquan nced at Abbess Zhu Yue and muttered. "Sorry, I have already sold the six Spirit Essence Pills to the young master of the Fang Family."


    Wu Jiuquan took a look at Abbess Zhu Yue, who was just at the Foundation Building Realm. He didn¡¯t recognize her and that would mean that there shouldn¡¯t be a problem when offending someone like that. He smiled and reached for the bottle in Abbess Zhu Yue''s hand while instructing the servant to return the low-grade spirit stones to her.


    Abbess Zhu Yue''s face darkened as she tucked the bottle into her sleeve, casting a cold gaze at Wu Jiuquan. "Is this how your Heavenly Treasure Pavilion treats guests? I have already purchased the item, yet you want to snatch it from my hands and sell it to someone else?"


    "Abbess, we instructed the Wu Jiuquan to set aside this item for us long ago. We¡¯re not snatching it from you." Fang Hao frowned slightly, his tone icy.


    Abbess Zhu Yue nced at him, not bothering with the Qi Refining Realm cultivator, and turned her gaze back to Wu Jiuquan. "We have given you the spirit stones, and I have already obtained the Spirit Essence Pills. You should think of other ways to fulfill your deal."


    "Esteemed Abbess, have you forgotten? This is the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion. Even if we step back, those who purchased these Spirit Essence Pills are young masters of the Fang Family. If you don''t care about our Heavenly Treasure Pavilion, you can¡¯t offend the Fang Family in Grand Qian," Wu Jiuquan said lightly. "I don''t want to escte the situation, so I suggest you hand over the Spirit Essence Pills."


    "You are being unreasonable," Fang Qingyao frowned. "There is an order for everything, and Master bought the pills first. If what you say is true and they were already imed by a few people, your Heavenly Treasure Pavilion has been negligent. Business should be conducted with integrity."


    Before stepping onto the path of cultivation, she had been the shopkeeper of the Green Medicine Hall for many years, and she had never seen such an unreasonable way of doing business.


    "Junior Sister, if you still want to stay in the inner city, it''s best not to argue with us," Fang Hao said with a faint smile. "You all came here for the trade conference, right? If you are expelled from the inner city by the Grand Qian Guards, you won''t be able to participate in this grand event."


    Abbess Zhu Yue''s expression changed slightly.


    Fang Qingyao and Abbess Qing He saw their master being put in the spot for the first time, and anger surged in their hearts.


    "Abbess Zhu Yue," a figure approached slowly, greeting her.


    "Oh, isn''t that the Lord?" Abbess Qing He was slightly surprised.


    "Lord¡­" Fang Qingyao stared nkly at Fang Chen, her eyes filled with disbelief. She even subconsciously pinched her thigh. It hurt, confirming it wasn''t a dream!


    "Lord Fang?" Abbess Zhu Yue was somewhat surprised.


    And just then, an even more unexpected scene unfolded.


    "Everyone is here!" Fang Hao suddenly eximed, leading a group of Fang Family disciples to bow respectfully to Fang Chen. "We pay our respects to Brother Fang Chen!"


    "It''s Fang Chen!"


    "Has he emerged from seclusion?"


    Many cultivators at the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion looked over, their expressions somewhat strange. Some bewildered cultivators even hurriedly asked about Fang Chen''s background.


    Even Abbess Zhu Yue and the others were left bewildered.


    <em>What''s going on?</em>

 Chapter 408: Foundation Building Pill

    Chapter 408: Foundation Building Pill


    Fang Hao and the others'' eyes were filled with respect as they looked at Fang Chen. There was even a sliver of admiration mixed in there too.


    "Were you just having a dispute with Abbess Zhu Yue?" Fang Chen asked Fang Hao.


    Wu Jiuquan felt a sense of unease well up in his heart. How did the abbess know Fang Chen?


    Fang Hao seemed to have realized something, causing his expression to turn into one of surprise. "Brother Fang Chen, do you know her?"


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "We''re old friends."


    Fang Hao pped his thigh and said, "Oh no! I wanted to buy a few Spirit Essence Pills, but unfortunately, thest few had been sold to her before I arrived. Steward Wu wanted to take them back from her for me. If I had known that they knew you, I wouldn''t have dared to do that."


    Feeling betrayed by Fang Hao''s confession, Wu Jiuquan forced a smile and bowed to Fang Chen. "Young Master Fang, there seems to be some misunderstanding here...."


    Fang Chen ignored Wu Jiuquan and smiled at Abbess Zhu Yue. "Abbess Zhu Yue, shall we find a teahouse to chat?"


    Abbess Zhu Yue nodded lightly. "Alright." Fang Hao and the others escorted them to the entrance of the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion, then looked at each other with chagrin.


    "It seems that Brother Fang Chen has a wide social circle," said Fang Hao, sighing.


    "Brother Fang Chen even easily gave up the apprenticeship token of the Purple Pole Dao Academy. With such a detached character, he naturally has many friends," said a disciple from the third branch.


    Fang Hao nodded, feeling that this statement made sense. "Right."


    As he turned around, he saw that Wu Jiuquan''s face had turned green from embarrassment. Fang Hao immediately chuckled and said, "Manager Wu, do you still have any Spirit Essence Pills left? Can you help me get some?"


    ***


    On the way, Fang Qingyao gathered her courage and approached Fang Chen. "Fang Chen, it''s been long since west met."


    Fang Chen smiled. "Have you settled in at the Concealed Moon Hermitage, Fang Qingyao?"


    Fang Qingyao nodded softly. "Everyone treats me very well, my master, the elders, as well as the many senior sisters over there."


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "That''s good to hear."


    Abbess Qing He couldn''t help but ask curiously, "Lord Fang, why are you in Grand Qian and why were those Fang Family disciples so respectful towards you?"


    Both Fang Qingyao and Abbess Zhu Yue showed curiosity on their faces, but thetter''s curiosity was more concealed.


    Fang Chen smiled. "My ancestors were from the Fang Family."


    The three women were enlightened.


    Fang Qingyao was secretly shocked. So Young Master Fang''s ancestors were from Grand Qian! No wonder he was different from ordinary people from birth.


    As they chatted, everyone arrived at a quiet room in the teahouse.


    When Abbess Qing He saw Li Daoye, a hint of surprise shed in her eyes. "You''re here too."


    There was a slight frown on Abbess Zhu Yue''s face. "Is your father here as well?"


    "Yes, Abbess Zhu Yue," Li Daoye smiled awkwardly, then winked at Abbess Qing He.


    Abbess Zhu Yue nodded slightly. "What a coincidence."


    After Li Daoye caught up with Abbess Qing He and exchanged names with Fang Qingyao, Fang Chen finally looked at Abbess Zhu Yue.


    "Abbess Zhu Yue, there''s something I''d like to ask you about," said Fang Chen.


    Abbess Zhu Yue was slightly surprised. "What is it?"


    "It¡¯s rted to the Spirit Blood Sect."


    Immediately, the expression on Abbess Zhu Yue''s face became serious, and Abbess Qing He also looked at Fang Chen.


    Fang Qingyao''s expression shifted. She had experienced the danger of Spirit Blood Sect cultivators firsthand, so these three words were very sensitive to her.


    "If you''re unwilling to listen to anything rted to them, Abbess Zhu Yue, then I won''t speak," Fang Chen said softly.


    "Young Master Fang, it''s alright," Abbess Zhu Yue said lightly. "I have had my fair share of encounters with Spirit Blood Sect cultivators by now, and I no longer have the same sentiments I used to have regarding them."


    Upon hearing this, Fang Chen exined the situation.


    When the three women learned that the Spirit Blood Sect was nning to incite a war that would span the entire Hidden Cloud Region, their expressions turned solemn.


    Abbess Zhu Yue frowned slightly. "Young Master Fang, what are you nning to do? Since you''re saying this, I''m assuming you have some ideas."


    She could guess that something was up, but she didn''t know why Fang Chen thought he could intervene in the matter. This wasn''t the me Empire, nor was it Grand Xia. The methods of Spirit Blood Sect cultivators here would inevitably be earth-shattering.


    "The Young Master of the Dongfang Family hasn''t arrived in Grand Qian, so the Spirit Blood Sect can''t do much for now. I want to make use of Abbess Qing He''s abilities to see which cultivators from the Spirit Blood Sect are present in Grand Qian," Fang Chen said.


    Abbess Zhu Yue nodded softly. "That is indeed a good idea."


    Abbess Qing He asked, "Lord Fang, what should I do?"


    "By the time the trade conference starts, cultivators from all around the world will have gathered in the capital, and many cultivators will visit the pce as guests, frequently passing through the road in front of the pce gates. I hope that when you have nothing else to do, you can find a tea house nearby to observe these cultivators passing there," Fang Chen said.


    Li Daoye suddenly said, "Even cultivators who are not associated with the Spirit Blood Sect can carry a lot of karma from their past lives. How do we distinguish them from each other?"


    "When cultivators die, their souls can easily enter the cycle of reincarnation and won''t linger in the mortal world for long. Only the souls of mortals remain in the human realm because they died unjustly and cannot easily see the path of reincarnation," Abbess Zhu Yue said lightly. "We can probably infer some clues from this. Let''s follow Young Master Fang''s instructions. The Spirit Blood Sect''s ambitions are huge, and both you and I reside in the Hidden Cloud Region, so we''re tied by karma to this matter. We cannot stand idly by."


    After saying this, she nced at Abbess Qing He. There was something she kept to herself. If Abbess Qing He could help with this and thwart the Spirit Blood Sect''s plot, she would gain great benefits.


    "It''s just a pity that my heart is not as pure as it used to be. I''m entangled in worldly affairs, making it difficult to follow this path," Abbess Zhu Yue sighed lightly. She was no longer the young girl she used to be. Shecked a pure mind. Her actions were now driven by certain purposes, and even if she could gain some benefits from them, they wouldn''t be too many.


    Half an hourter, everyone gradually left the teahouse.


    Fang Chen had just returned to his courtyard when he saw Fang Wanli sitting on a stone bench, chatting with Jiang Tianai. Li Cang and Chang Fen were standing respectfully on the side, not daring to make a sound.


    Fang Wanli looked at Fang Chen. "The kid''s back?"


    There was something about Fang Wanli''s expression, it seemed to hold some hidden meaning.


    Fang Chen nodded and sped his fists. "Greetings, Patriarch."


    "There are Foundation Building Pills in this box. However, breaking through to the Foundation Building can take a long time. It might take several years, or it might take several decades. It also carries risks. After you finish your duel with Jue Wudi, take one and go into seclusion," Fang Wanli said.


    Fang Wanli gently raised his hand, and a jade box flew in front of Fang Chen.


    Li Cang and Chang Fen''s expressions lit up. "A Foundation Building Pill?"


    Did that mean... that their young master would soon be able to advance to the Foundation Building Realm, just like Elder Fang Ao and the others?


    The more they thought about it, the more excited they became.


    Jiang Tianai was secretly happy for Fang Chen too, and she couldn''t help but feel that this old man before her, who enjoyed drinking, was a good person.


    Fang Chen was slightly taken aback, his gaze falling on the jade box. He had originally nned to purchase a Foundation Building Pill at the trade conference. He didn''t expect to obtain one to be delivered right to his doorstep, without him needing to spend a single spirit stone.


    Mirror of the Universe''s voice suddenly rang in Fang Chen''s mind. "Brother, this Foundation Building Pill is of no use to you."

 Chapter 409: Dragon Blood Lineage

    Chapter 409: Dragon Blood Lineage


    Fang Chen didn''t show anything on his face even after he heard Mirror of the Universe''s words. He only opened the jade box and nced inside. There was a pill the size of a longan inside. It was entirely red in color, and the pill''s surface faintly shimmered with a metallic luster.


    Just by opening the jade box, a strange fragrance that made the people who smelled it feel refreshed wafted out.


    "Many thanks for the gift, Patriarch," Fang Chen said, closing the jade box and bowing to Fang Wanli.


    "You don''t have to thank me." Fang Wanli smiled, a hint ofplexity shing across his face. "This pill... has actually been passed down for hundreds of years."


    "What do you mean?" Fang Chen asked, puzzled.


    "Not long after Uncle Tingyuan was driven away, my grandfather, who is also your ancestor''s ancestor, reached the end of his life. Before he passed away, he left behind this Foundation Building Pill. He said that if a descendant of Uncle Tingyuan ever returned to the family, and he had enough talent, he is to be bestowed this Foundation Building Pill," Fang Wanli exined with a smile.


    "So as you see, this Foundation Building Pill originally belongs to you. That''s why you don''t need to thank me."


    With that said, Fang Wanli lightly patted the head of Jiang Tianai. "Little girl, you cane and chat with the old ancestor when you have time. He thinks highly of you. It seems you''re not of ordinary origin, which is why the Jue Family wants to deal with you."


    Jiang Tianai nodded gently. "Grandpa, I''lle find you when I have time." Fang Wanli chuckled and turned to leave.


    Li Cang and Chang Fen hurriedly congratted Fang Chen. "Congrattions, Young Master."


    "Uncle, you''ll soon be able to establish your foundation. Uncle Zhong said that when you reach the Foundation Building Realm, you''ll have a ce in the cultivation world," Jiang Tianai said with some joy.


    Fang Chen nodded with a smile. Without saying a word, he walked toward his quiet chamber.


    As soon as he entered, he retrieved Mirror of the Universe and asked, "Little Zhou, what did you mean? Why is this Foundation Building Pill not useful for me?"


    Little Sword''s voice rang out. "Little Chen, he wants to cheat you out of your spirit stones. Don''t ask him!"


    The Mirror of the Universe replied, "Damn brat, if I wanted to cheat my younger brother, I would have done so long ago. Don''t judge others by your own standards, you little rascal."


    "You''re the rascal," Little Sword retorted.


    Mirror of the Universe was toozy to bother with it, so it didn''t reply. It said to Fang Chen, "Brother, you have a very solid foundation, and it''s of the Immortal Sword lineage. A foundation like this is rare even in the Immortal Realm, let alone here. Ordinary Foundation Building Pills simply cannot shake the foundation of the Immortal Sword lineage. If you want it to have an effect, it has to be a Foundation Building Pill of the saint grade."


    "Saint-grade Foundation Building Pill?" Fang Chen''s expression changed. "So Foundation Building Pills are also divided into different grades?"


    "Yes, although it is only a mid-grade, yellow-rank pill, its importance far exceeds some pills of the profound rank. The quality of the Foundation Building Pill also determines the sess rate of building one¡¯s foundations. For example, this pill in your hand. Its quality basically entails that, whether you take it or not, it wouldn''t make much of a difference," Mirror of the Universe exined.


    "Foundation Building Pills are divided into four mortal grades and three saint grades, totaling seven grades. The one in your hand is a first-level mortal-grade pill. It¡¯s the most basic Foundation Building Pill one could have. If an ordinary Qi Refining cultivator takes it, their chances of breaking through to the Foundation Building Realm wouldn''t exceed twenty percent. As for you¡­ if you take it, you''d have a zero percent chance of breaking through!"


    Fang Chen was surprised. "I am afraid that even the two ancestors of the Fang Family don''t know about this."


    Since Senior Yun He hadn''t said anything about this either, he probably hadn''t expected Fang Chen to solidify his foundation to this extent.


    "Indeed, those two might know a few things, but their knowledge is definitely not deep enough. With your foundation, you would need at least a first-level saint-grade Foundation Building Pill to have a sess rate of twenty percent¡­" Mirror of the Universe said.


    Fang Chen frowned. "Where can I find such Foundation Building Pills? It''s unlikely that even the trade conference has Foundation Building Pills of such grade."


    He had already nned to return to Grand Xia after the trade conference ended. He''d only enter seclusion to break through to the Foundation Building Realm when he''s in Grand Xia. After that, he would head to the Central Continent Empire.


    "Young brother, as long as you give me ten thousand low-grade spirit stones, with some luck, within three days, this Foundation Building Pill in your hand can be transformed into a first-level saint-grade pill," Mirror of the Universe said.


    "You''re shameless! If you have a way, just say it. Why do you need ten thousand low-grade spirit stones?" Little Sword interjected.


    "Brat, this is the rule. Since you don''t understand my difficulties, then I won''t me you. Just don''t keep whining. Little Chen here will make the decision. If it weren''t for me back then, could you have advanced?" Mirror of the Universe retorted.


    Fang Chen''s mind stirred. "Within three days? Are you saying that this Foundation Building Pill can be turned into a saint-grade pill?"


    "Yes, Foundation Building Pills are quite special. They can undergo a second refinement even after they have already been formed. In fact, saint-grade Foundation Building Pills are created this way. It''s almost impossible to directly refine saint-grade Foundation Building Pills," Mirror of the Universe exined.


    Fang Chen nodded lightly and directly handed over ten thousand low-grade spirit stones to Mirror of the Universe.


    Mirror of the Universe''s aura surged as it began to absorb the spirit stones.


    By the time it took for a stick of incense to burn, Mirror of the Universe had finished consuming all ten thousand low-grade spirit stones, leaving it satisfied and bloated.


    Fang Chen faintly felt that the aura of the Mirror of the Universe had be much stronger.


    "Ah, that feels good. It''s been many years since I''ve felt thisfortable, "Mirror of the Universeughed heartily. "Brother, turn to page twenty-five!¡±


    Fang Chenplied and went to page twenty-five, focusing his divine soul on the page.


    ***


    A chubby figure surrounded by several cultivators suddenly appeared in the distance. All of them were flying in a certain direction.


    "Young master, we are about to arrive at the capital of Grand Qian," a voice suddenly rang out.


    The chubby figure chuckled. "Well, that''s great news! I heard that Fairy Tianyin from the Azure Cloud Empire will also be attending the trade conference. I need to hurry to Grand Qian so I can avoid being bothered by some insignificant people."


    "The patriarch said to be careful since we''re headed to Grand Qian. Grand Qian has always been at odds with Grand Wei. It''s best to keep a low profile to avoid trouble, Young Master," another voice advised.


    "Don''t worry. Who would dare to mess with me? Even if they don''t give face to Grand Wei, they have to give face to the Dongfang Family," the chubby figure said proudly, clearly valuing the Dongfang Family more than Grand Wei as a whole.


    Fang Chen''s eyes flickered. "It seems Mirror of the Universe can transmit sound from within its pages. It''s truly mystical."


    "Brother, see that chubby guy? Dragon blood flows through his veins. As long as you obtain ten drops of his essence blood, you can transform an ordinary Foundation Building Pill into a first-level saint-grade pill! The more essence blood you obtain, the higher the grade!" said Mirror of the Universe.


    "Is he the young master of the Dongfang Family? What''s his background, and why does he have dragon blood in him?" Fang Chen asked softly as his consciousness returned to his body.


    "Brother, you may not know this, but in ancient times, there were dragons everywhere. For their convenience, true dragons would choose some mortals to be their servants. Those who achieved meritorious deeds as dragon servants would be granted dragon blood, thus gaining divine bloodlines.


    "Later on, true dragons gradually disappeared, and those who possessed the blood of dragons referred to themselves as those from the Dragon Blood Lineage. Since dragon blood has divine effects, many cultivators began to hunt down the descendants of the Dragon Blood Lineage.


    "Over time, the Dragon Blood Lineage disappeared from the public eye, and eventually, people mistakenly believed them to have gonepletely extinct."


    "It seems that the Dongfang Family has an extraordinary origin. It probably involves a fourth-tier empire or even a third-tier one¡­ No wonder the Spirit Blood Sect sees killing the young master of the Dongfang Family as a trigger," Fang Chen pondered for a moment before he continued, "In that case, how can I obtain his essence blood? The reason they¡¯re hiding in the mortal world is probably because they¡¯re unwilling to reveal their identities as members of the Dragon Blood Lineage. If I were to directly approach them, I''m afraid they would silence me, right?"

 Chapter 410: You’re Asking Me to Rob Them!

    Chapter 410: You¡¯re Asking Me to Rob Them!


    "The solution is simple, isn''t it? Younger Brother, you just need to wear a mask, find the right opportunity to approach him, and then have a ''nice'' chat with him. He will naturally be willing to offer his essence blood," Mirror of the Universe suggested cryptically.


    Fang Chen''s brows scrunched up. "Are you asking me to rob him?"


    Upon further thought, the other party was unaware that he was already in a dangerous situation, with Spirit Blood Sect cultivators nning to kill him.


    "I save you, and you give me essence blood¡­ It''s a fair trade," Fang Chen mumbled thoughtfully, then asked, "How long until he reaches the capital of Grand Qian?"


    "He should arrive today," Mirror of the Universe replied.


    "He should have a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator apanying him. Getting close to him won''t be easy," Fang Chen mused.


    "The descendants of the Dragon Blood n have an extraordinary perception of Immortal Origin Stones, which leads them to collect them. Don''t forget, there is an Immortal Origin Stone Market in the outer city. You should have plenty of opportunities there," Mirror of the Universe reminded him.


    As night fell, the capital of Grand Qian was brilliantly lit, seeming even livelier than during the day. Qian Feng and Qian Jiuye followed behind Princess Shenlong, quietly waiting at the city gate.


    "Aunt, our rtionship with Grand Wei is not good, so why do you personallye here to wee the young master of the Dongfang Family?" asked Qian Jiuye, unable to help herself. She was clearly a little puzzled.A cold smile flickered in Qian Feng''s eyes as he nced at Qian Jiuye. He knew a little about this matter. It was said that the Dongfang Family of Grand Wei was not a local family but had migrated there, and their background was somewhat mysterious, involving some fourth-tier empires or even third-tier empires.


    "Grand Wei is Grand Wei, and the Dongfang Family is the Dongfang Family; they are different," said Princess Shenlong calmly, without borating further.


    Standing in the void, Fang Chen heard her words and realized that the royal family of Grand Qian had some understanding of the Dongfang Family.


    Before long, Princess Shenlong''s gaze shifted, and dozens of rays of light broke through the sky andnded in front of them. A middle-aged man with a stern face stepped forward and sped his fist. "I am Nie Tianyuan of the Dongfang Family. I pay my respects to you, Princess Shenlong."


    "So, it''s Fellow Daoist Nie." Princess Shenlong''s gaze shifted to the chubby figure behind Nie Tianyuan. "And this must be..."


    "This is our young master," Nie Tianyuan said softly, then turned to the chubby figure. "Young Master, this is Princess Shenlong of Grand Qian."


    The chubby figure immediately sped his fists at Princess Shenlong. "I, Dongfang Haojie, pay my respects to you, senior."


    After that, he nced at Qian Feng and Qian Jiuye.


    "Please stay in the pce for the time being," said Princess Shenlong. "The ancestor instructed me to ensure your safety during your time in Grand Qian."


    Dongfang Haojie quickly replied, "You don''t need to be so polite, Senior. We can just stay in an inn. As for the rest, you don¡¯t need to worry. We''re just here for a leisure trip, we shall do without the formalities."


    Princess Shenlong frowned slightly and looked at Nie Tianyuan. "Fellow Nie?"


    "Young Master, it will be much safer in the pce," Nie Tianyuan said softly.


    Dongfang Haojie red at Nie Tianyuan and sneered. "You should listen to me. Besides, how dangerous can it be here? The Dongfang Family hasn''t offended anyone."


    Nie Tianyuan smiled bitterly and looked at Princess Shenlong. "Thank you for your kindness. We''ll stay at the inn."


    Princess Shenlong remained silent for a moment then nodded softly. "If you need any help, you can call the Guards on the street. I will inform them to be ready to deal with any trouble."


    Qian Feng and Qian Jiuye had hoped to establish a rtionship with the young master of the Dongfang Family but ended up with disappointment.


    After parting ways, Dongfang Haojie and hispanions checked into the Spring Dawn Tower.


    Fang Chen''s divine soul had been observing Dongfang Haojie''s followers, including Nie Tianyuan. When they refused Princess Shenlong''s proposal to stay in the pce and insisted on listening only to Dongfang Haojie, Fang Chen became slightly wary.


    "Young Master, rest for today. Tomorrow, I will apany you to explore the Immortal Origin District," Nie Tianyuan whispered.


    Dongfang Haojie nodded with a grin. "Great, great. Also, find out if Fairy Tianyin has arrived yet."


    After Nie Tianyuan acknowledged and left, Fang Chen noticed that he returned to his room and sat quietly without any intention of meditating. After about an hour, Nie Tianyuan suddenly got up and went to another room in the Spring Dawn Tower.


    In the room, a figure had been waiting for a long time. When Nie Tianyuan entered, the figure casually set up a spiritual barrier. Even a Golden Core Realm expert would have a hard time breaking through such a sturdy spiritual barrier.


    Fang Chen didn''t have concerns in this regard and effortlessly followed inside.


    Tong Hu looked at Nie Tianyuan with a faint smile on his face. "Has your young master been settled in?"


    Nie Tianyuan nodded lightly. "He has. When should we make our move?"


    Tong Hu smiled faintly. "No rush. Three Nascent Soul powerhouses from the Azure Cloud Empire will being. Immortal Void Rush from the Purple Pole Dao Academy, Immortal White Tiger from the Jade Void Mountain, and Supreme Expert Dragon Wood from the Chenxiang Temple."


    He said, "Even if Dongfang Haojie wants to die, he must make sure they witness it. This way, the Azure Cloud Empire will be thrown into chaos. After the deed is done, our ns can proceed smoothly without arousing suspicion."


    Nie Tianyuan frowned. "In that case, the assant will undoubtedly be killed on the spot. How can it provoke a war between the two countries?"


    "We''ll use poison," said Tong Hu with a faint smile.


    "Poison?" Nie Tianyuan sneered. "Perhaps you''re unaware that the Dongfang n''s bloodline is special. Those direct descendants are immune to most poisons. I''ve tested it early on."


    Tong Hu smiled faintly. "Ordinary poisons might not work, but the poison I have was personally given to me by the Kunlong Battle General himself... You can''t doubt that, right?"


    Nie Tianyuan was slightly surprised. "Kunlong Battle General has personallye to see you? Is he here in Grand Qian right now?"


    Fang Chen''s expression shifted slightly. Kunlong Battle General had already arrived in Grand Qian? That wasn''t good news.


    "Kunlong Battle General has always been in Grand Qian," Tong Hu said with a faint smile. "You keep an eye on Dongfang Haojie during this time. I will inform you of the rest when the timees."


    Nie Tianyuan was clearly shocked by this statement, but he didn''t dare to inquire further. He nodded lightly and left the room. As he left, his expression became quite grim.


    "It seems that Tong Hu is Kunlong Battle General''s trusted aide. Then what am I?"


    Fang Chen''s expression became extremely solemn. "Kunlong Battle General... has always been in Grand Qian?"


    Faces shed through his mind one after the other¡ªFang Tianjian, Fang Wanli, and even figures like Jur Feichen and Princess Shenlong.


    "None of those can be Kunlong Battle General. If they were, that old predecessor would have seen through it," Fang Chen thought heavily.


    If Tong Hu''s words were true, Kunlong Battle General could very well be disguised as an ordinary person, hiding among the people of Grand Qian. In that case, even if Fang Chen was a celestial being who descended from heaven, it would still be very difficult to find his whereabouts.


    "To think they''d use the help of a Nascent Soul expert to plot against a Qi Refining Realm cultivator.... My chances of stopping him from killing this Qi Refining Realm cultivator... are basically zero," Fang Chen murmured softly.

 Chapter 411: Robbery

    <h4>Chapter 411: Robbery</h4>


    Early the next morning, Dongfang Haojie led Nie Tianyuan and the others to the Immortal Origin District in the outer city. Their first stop was the Jade River Pavilion.


    During this time, business at the Immortal Origin District was booming, and cultivators from all over woulde here to try their hand. Consequently, they had also heard rumors about Fang Chen.


    "An Immortal Origin Stone Master? Can someone from a mere fifth-tier empire like the Grand Qian really produce an Immortal Origin Stone Master? That''s highly unlikely," Dongfang Haojie said, looking rather perplexed. He even set down the Immortal Origin Stone he was holding.


    "Young Master, the term ''Immortal Origin Stone Master'' refers to one''s inheritance. Regardless of one''s background, it''s possible that this member of the Fang Family had the fortune of being taken in by an Immortal Origin Stone Master and taught a few tricks," Nie Tianyuan exined with a smile.


    "The gentleman is right. That Young Master Fang indeed may be a disciple of some Immortal Origin Stone Master," Tong Baizhou chimed in with a smile as he approached Nie Tianyuan and Dongfang Haojie, sping his hands in greeting. "I am Tong Baizhou, the next-in-line master of the Jade River Pavilion. If you wish to try your luck with some Immortal Origin Stones, you''vee to the right ce."


    "You''re quite well-informed about us. Do you know our backgrounds?" Nie Tianyuan asked calmly.


    Tong Baizhou nodded with a smile. "I know a little, just a little."


    "Brother Tong, I am Dongfang Haojie of the Dongfang Family from Grand Wei. Since you are the young master here, can you provide us with some high-quality Immortal Origin Stones to peruse?" Dongfang Haojie smiled. "The Immortal Origin Stones here in this hall are hardly worth mentioning. They''re only suitable for ordinary cultivators."


    "It seems you''re quite knowledgeable about Immortal Origin Stones too, Brother Dongfang? Looks like we''ve met an expert today. Please, Brother Dongfang, follow me to the VIP room. There, we have even better Immortal Origin Stones on disy," Tong Baizhou invited warmly.


    As they followed Tong Baizhou into the back hall, two graceful figures entered the Jade River Pavilion.


    "Junior Sister, when did you be interested in Immortal Origin Stones?" the female sword cultivator asked casually.


    As Fairy Yu surveyed the Immortal Origin Stones around her, she replied, "Senior Sister, don''t you find Immortal Origin Stones fascinating? When I was in the sect, I heard from a senior brother that there was an elder who once cut open a Sword Soul from an Immortal Origin Stone."


    The female sword cultivator nodded slightly. "I''ve indeed heard about that, but it''s hard to say if it''s true. Sword Souls... I believe they exist only in legends. If one could integrate a flying sword with a Sword Soul, it would be akin to obtaining a genuine Immortal Fate."


    Seeing themotion around them, the female sword cultivator''s brow furrowed slightly, and a hint of impatience flickered in her eyes. "Let''s leave. This ce is too noisy, and I don''t like it."


    "Senior Sister, since we have to stay here for a while anyway, let''s make the most of it. If we return to the sect, it''ll just be the dull routine of closed-door cultivation," Fairy Yu coaxed.


    The female sword cultivator sighed softly. "Fine, this is because I epted you as my personal disciple... Let''s go then."


    ***


    Dongfang Haojie arrived at the VIP room, where he found the quality of the Immortal Origin Stones was indeed much better. He began to examine them carefully.


    Dongfang Haojie suddenly said, "Uncle Nie, you all can leave first. I''ll stay here alone to appreciate these Immortal Origin Stones."


    Tong Baizhou was momentarily stunned.


    Nie Tianyuan looked at him and smiled. "Let''s all take our leave. The young master prefers to appreciate Immortal Origin Stones without others present."


    Tong Baizhou nodded softly. "If you need anything, just call us."


    Apanying Nie Tianyuan out of the VIP room, they entered another quiet room. Tong Hu nced at Nie Tianyuan and chuckled softly, "After so many years with the Dongfang Family, they still don''t trust you?"


    Nie Tianyuan replied calmly, "The Dongfang family has unique secret techniques for handling Immortal Origin Stones. They won''t allow outsiders to observe their skills."


    "It''s a pity. If we could casually obtain their secret techniques, it would be quite a feat," Tong Hu murmured softly.


    ***


    When Dongfang Haojie saw that there was no one around, he immediately set up a prohibition spell. Then, he squeezed out a drop of blood from his fingertip. The drop of blood floated gently in the air. It was different from ordinary blood, as it had a faint golden hue.


    At the next moment, the blood turned into a mist, spreading over all the Immortal Origin Stones nearby. The Immortal Origin Stones then lit up with various colors¡ªck, white, purple, and gold.


    Dongfang Haojie''s gaze fell only on the purple and gold Immortal Origin Stones, which were the least in number. There were two purple and one gold.


    "The quality isn''t that great. Among so many Immortal Origin Stones, there are only two purple and one gold," Dongfang Haojie muttered to himself.


    Fang Chen saw what happened and understood what was going on. This family with their Dragon Bloodline was indeed extraordinary; their blood could even discern the quality of the Immortal Origin Stones.


    After his divine soul reunited with his body, Fang Chen stepped out of the shadows. He rested the long sword in his hand against Dongfang Haojie''s neck.


    "This is a robbery," Fang Chen said.


    The sword in Fang Chen''s hand wasn''t Little Sword; it was just some ordinary treasure. Fang Chen was afraid Little Sword would be noticed by the female sword cultivator.


    Dongfang Haojie quivered with a look of disbelief on his face. He actually encountered a robber in a ce like that!


    Dongfang Haojie calmed his nerves and said in a deep voice, "Are you here to rob me of my money?¡±


    Fang Chen shook his head lightly. "No."


    Dongfang Haojie''s face turned fearful. "Then... are you after my body?"


    "Does it look like you have something I can lust after?" Fang Chen frowned. "I want ten drops of your blood. Will you give them to me yourself, or should I help you?"


    Dongfang Haojie heard this and calmed down a bit, his voice indifferent. "Are you one of Nie Tianyuan''s people?"


    Fang Chen was slightly surprised. <i>This guy knows that Nie Tianyuan had ulterior motives...?</i>


    "It seems you are indeed one of Nie Tianyuan''s people. My father said he has a somewhat mysterious background. He has been staying with our Dongfang Family for these years perhaps because he''s after the secrets that my family holds?" Dongfang Haojie said. "I''m curious. I clearly cleared the area earlier. With my abilities, no one can hide in the shadows without me sensing them. How did you manage to do it?"


    "You seem to have misunderstood one thing. I''m not one of Nie Tianyuan''s people, but he does indeed have some ulterior motives," Fang Chen replied.


    He then whispered, "I only need ten drops of your blood. As a descendant of the Dragon Bloodline, you can probably guess what I need this blood for. If you don''tply, I won''t leave. Do you want to wager your life away, or do you want to know more about Nie Tianyuan?"


    Dongfang Haojie was slightly surprised. "You know about the bloodline...!"


    He really wanted to turn around and see who the other person was, but he didn''t dare. The other party dared to act even though they knew there was a Golden Core Realm expert nearby. If they weren''t on Nie Tianyuan''s side, they had to be extremely confident in their abilities!


    "Ten drops of blood... that will leave me weakened for at least several months. Can I give them to you in installments?" Dongfang Haojie tried to negotiate.


    "I''m not a fool." Fang Chen smiled. "I won''t take your ten drops of blood for nothing. Wait for what I have to sayter; perhaps it can save your life."


    Dongfang Haojie''s expression fluctuated. After a few moments, he slowly said, "I hope you''re not ying tricks on me..."


    Suddenly, his blood surged, and drops of blood with a golden luster gushed out from his fingertips. His father had told him that if he encountered a cultivator who knew the secret about their bloodline, there was only one fate that awaited him: all of his blood would be forcibly refined.


    Now, this person knew his secrets but only asked for ten drops of blood. Anyone withmon sense would know which option to take.

 Chapter 412: Not Too Stupid

    <h4>Chapter 412: Not Too Stupid</h4>


    Soon after, Dongfang Haojie condensed ten drops of blood, which Fang Chen collected into a porcin bottle.


    Dongfang Haojie looked somewhat weak as he mumbled, "Now that you have the blood, can you exin the meaning behind your words just now?"


    "Does your father know that Nie Tianyuan has ulterior motives?" Fang Chen said lightly.


    Dongfang Haojie nodded. "Of course. He''s not a fool, and Nie Tianyuan isn''t smart."


    Fang Chen smiled. "In that case, why would you dare to travel alone with him? Do you have any defensive treasures on you?"


    Dongfang Haojie looked wary. "I don''t have any treasures on me."


    It was obvious that he was lying, but Fang Chen didn''t press further. He just chuckled and said, "You think Nie Tianyuan covets some of your family''s. But in reality, Nie Tianyuanes from the Spirit Blood Sect and knows about the extensive involvement of your Dongfang Family. He ns to use you as bait to turn the Hidden Cloud Region into a battlefield."


    Dongfang Haojie had wanted to hear what Fang Chen was going to say, but he was left speechless by what he just heard. <i>The Spirit Blood Sect? Nie Tianyuan''s a cultivator from the Spirit Blood Sect?!</i>


    "How is that possible...? The Spirit Blood Sect hasn''t appeared for many years. Not to mention that, wherever they may be, they''re surely being suppressed," Dongfang Haojie said without thinking.


    "They operate covertly, so it''s normal that you haven''t noticed them," Fang Chen replied nonchntly.


    Dongfang Haojie furrowed his brow slightly. "Who exactly are you, and why do you know about this? Nie Tianyuan wants to use me as bait? I''m not entirely convinced."


    When Fang Chen heard that question, memories couldn''t help but sh through his mind.


    "Why do I know? It''s just a coincidence," he replied.


    If it weren''t for what happened back in Grand Xia, he wouldn''t have known about the Spirit Blood Sect. And it just so happened that his unique divine soul allowed him to uncover many secrets. Other cultivators wouldn''t be able to eavesdrop on conversations between Golden Core Realm cultivators as easily as he could.


    "Whether you believe it or not, it''s the truth. You''ve be a pawn in their hands," Fang Chen said coldly. "If you die, the hidden cultivators among them will incite conflict, leading to a war between Grand Qian and Grand Wei.


    "At that time, both the Azure Cloud Empire and the Hidden Immortal Empire will be involved. By then, no empire in the Hidden Cloud Region will be spared. You may not know much about the Spirit Blood Sect, but you just need to know one thing. They are powerful, very powerful."


    "There''s something wrong with what you said," Dongfang Haojie remarked. "Even if Grand Wei goes to war with Grand Qian because of me, why would Azure Cloud Empire and Hidden Immortal Empire get involved?"


    "In those two empires, there are also Spirit Blood Sect cultivators. Their cultivation level and identity are temporarily unknown, but I''m sure they have enough influence to drag both countries into the war," Fang Chen replied.


    Dongfang Haojie''s expression became serious. "A majestic fourth-tier empire... also has Spirit Blood Sect cultivators!?"


    Suddenly, it hit Dongfang Haojie that Fang Chen didn''t have a reason to deceive him. Fang Chen had already obtained the blood essence, so what would be the point in deceiving him?


    Dongfang Haojie''s voice became hoarse. "Sir, is the Spirit Blood Sect doing this to refine the Blood Spirit Pill?"


    "You know about this? It seems you have some understanding of the Spirit Blood Sect," said Fang Chen with a light smile. "That is indeed what they are after. In their eyes, ordinary people are just pigs and dogspeting for resources with cultivators. Only when these pigs and dogs are gone can the remaining cultivators have more resources and living space.


    "If these ''pigs and dogs'' can be turned into elixirs to enhance their cultivation, that would be even better. The Spirit Blood Sect was probably able to grow so strong because the Blood Spirit Pill has allowed some cultivators to take shortcuts, making them deeply believe in the Spirit Blood Sect''s ideology and act as their aplices!"


    "Hidden Cloud Region... countless empires...." muttered Dongfang Haojie. "If the entire Hidden Cloud Region falls into a quagmire of war, tens of millions of mortals will die every day... If their essence and blood are refined into Blood Spirit Pills¡ª"


    "Perhaps they could directly cultivate a Nascent Soul, or even achieve Enlightenment."


    "Thank you for the reminder. I will set off for Grand Wei today and not give the Spirit Blood Sect such an opportunity," Dongfang Haojie said in a low voice. "Once I inform my family about this matter, they will contact some senior members, and with their intervention, the Spirit Blood Sect''s goals will never be achieved."


    "You can''t leave." Fang Chen shook his head gently. "Not to mention that if you leave, the Spirit Blood Sect will change their ns and find another way to achieve their goals. Right now, you are stuck."


    "I can''t escape? Why not? If it''s just Nie Tianyuan, he can''t stop me."Dongfang Haojie frowned. "I''m not bragging, but your appearance was too sudden. Given even a little time to prepare, you wouldn''t be able to restrain me."


    "The Spirit Blood Sect has powerful warriors at the warlord level in Grand Qian, what you call Nascent Soul Realm experts," Fang Chen said lightly. "One of them is likely watching you near the Jade River Pavilion. You want to leave? How will you leave?"


    Dongfang Haojie took in a sharp breath as his face turned pale. "Nascent Soul...."


    After a few moments, his eyes suddenly flickered, and he whispered, "You''ve told me so much. There must be a reason for it. If this matter can''t be stopped, why did you tell me all this?"


    "You aren''t that stupid after all. Originally, when I learned that they wanted to kill you, I nned to secretly support you a bit and then eliminate the Golden Core Realm cultivators of the Spirit Blood Sect in Grand Qian one by one. This way, at least I could weaken them and dy their next move. By then, spreading the news to Azure Cloud Empire and Hidden Immortal Empire, I believe the Spirit Blood Sect won''t have everything under control, and some seniors wille out to handle the matter," Fang Chen said lightly.


    Dongfang Haojie couldn''t help muttering to himself, "Secretly supporting me yet taking ten drops of my blood..."


    A chill raced down his spine. The other party seemed to know him very well, yet he hadn''t had a clue as to who he was!


    "What you need to do for now is to not wander around too much. It''s best if you stay in the inner city," Fang Chen advised indifferently. "They are nning to poison you right in front of the Nascent Soul Realm expert from the Azure Cloud Empire. To put it differently, you''re temporarily safe until then."


    Dongfang Haojie''s face turned a little green. "You''re telling me that there''s a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator from the other side here... yet I should continue to stay?"


    Fang Chen smiled. "So what if there''s a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator here? You have a Golden Core Realm sword cultivator secretly supporting you. If it''s an ordinary Nascent Soul Realm expert, I believe they can still put up a fight."


    "A Golden Core Realm sword cultivator?" Dongfang Haojie''s eyes lit up. "So you''re a sword cultivator! Does that mean there''s a Nascent Soul Realm sword cultivator backing you up in Grand Qian too?"


    "That''s right." Fang Chen nodded with a smile. "If we didn''t have some reassurance, why would we take action against the Spirit Blood Sect? Everyone''s life is precious. Why would we stay here if we know we''ll die?"


    "Indeed, indeed."


    Dongfang Haojie suddenly felt relieved. It seemed that Fang Chen''s group had great confidence that things would go well. Otherwise, they would have fled long ago. It was true that sword cultivators had a fiery temperament. They were also unruly and overbearing, but that didn''t mean they didn''t fear death.

 Chapter 413: Second Level Saint Grade!

    <h4>Chapter 413: Second Level Saint Grade!</h4>


    Dongfang Haojie''s eyes flickered slightly. "Oh, you just mentioned they were nning to poison me? I''m from the direct line of the Dragon Blood Family, so I''m immune to all poisons. I''m afraid their scheme will fail."


    Fang Chen smiled and said, "Nie Tianyuan knows about your unique constitution, and that Nascent Soul Realm cultivator knows about it too, so he personally prepared a poison that can affect you. From what I can tell, the poison the Nascent Soul Realm expert will be able to kill you."


    The corners of Dongfang Haojie''s mouth lifted slightly. "Even if it''s prepared by a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator, let alone a Enlightenment Realm expert, they won''t be able to kill me. None of the descendants of the Dragon Blood Family have ever died from poison! Now that I think about it, they don''t know any details of the Dongfang Family. If they did, they wouldn''t have thought about using poison to kill me."


    "<i>Little Mirror, can the descendants of the Dragon Blood Family not be killed by poison?</i>" Fang Chen inquired inwardly.


    "<i>Brother, he''s not bragging. While the descendants of the Dragon Blood Family can sumb to poison, those poisons stand at the very peak level of all poisons in the world. A mere Nascent Soul Realm cultivator, let alone having them, doesn''t even have the qualifications to learn about them,</i>" Mirror of the Universe responded.


    "Well, that''s good to hear." Fang Chen looked at Dongfang Haojie. "If they can''t kill you with poison, things will be even easier. With a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator from the Azure Cloud Empire present at that time, it''s unlikely they''ll be able to kill you directly."


    "You shouldn''t reveal any clues during this period, lest they suspect something. If you''re lucky, this matter will end soon," Fang Chen muttered.


    "Oh, by the way, the Nascent Soul Realm cultivator from the Purple Pole Dao Academy has a good rtionship with the Dongfang Family," Dongfang Haojie said. "Once this senior arrives, I''ll exin the situation to her, and all problems will be easily resolved, right?"


    "Can you guarantee she''s not a Spirit Blood Sect cultivator?" Fang Chen countered.


    "To be honest with you..." Dongfang Haojie hesitated for a moment before speaking, "This senior is also a descendant of the Dragon Blood Family. She knows that our Dongfang Family is a branch of the Dragon Blood Family. If she were a Spirit Blood Sect cultivator, she wouldn''t try to kill me with poison."


    At this point, Dongfang Haojie paused, a hint of suspicion crossing his face. "Sir, how did you know they were nning to poison me instead of using other methods?"


    Fang Chen chuckled. "I overheard it."


    "Overheard..." Dongfang Haojie initially wanted to ask further, but then he closed his mouth, realizing something. The other party probably used the same method he used to sneak up on his to secretly eavesdrop on the Spirit Blood Sect cultivator''s ns!


    "Nie Tianyuan ising," said Fang Chen, frowning.


    ncing at Dongfang Haojie, he said, "Remember what I said, don''t reveal anything, otherwise not only will you die, but the Azure Cloud Empire will also be doomed."


    With that, Fang Chen disappeared into the shadows as if he was never there.


    Nie Tianyuan suddenly pushed the door open and looked at Dongfang Haojie.


    Dongfang Haojie''s face showed a hint of dissatisfaction. "Uncle Nie, why did youe in without knocking?"


    Nie Tianyuan smiled. "I was negligent. By the way, young master, why do you look so pale?"


    "The Dongfang Family''s Origin Observation Technique has always been quite taxing," Dongfang Haojie replied.


    Nie Tianyuan nodded slightly as he knew as much. He casually asked, "Young master, are there any Immortal Origin Stones you''re interested in?"


    "The quality of Immortal Origin Stones here isn''t that great. Let''s go check out other ces. I think this shop is ripping people off. That Tong Baizhou fe always has a smile on his face, like a smiling tiger. He doesn''t seem like a good person," Dongfang Haojie said, then left the VIP room.


    Nie Tianyuan snorted and followed. "Hmph, silk pants."


    As Dongfang Haojie just returned to the hall, he heard a cry next to him, followed by an angry scolding. "Why did you step on thisdy''s foot!"


    Dongfang Haojie, who was already in a bad mood, looked up. The sight that made met him left him immediately stunned.


    "Such stunning beauty...." he murmured.


    "Hey, you stepped on my foot, what are you going to do about it?" said Fairy Yu.


    The female sword cultivator frowned lightly. "Junior Sister, let''s go. Don''t bother with such people."


    Dongfang Haojie immediately said, "Dear fairy, I failed to control my feet and disturbed you. How about I invite you to the Spring Dawn Tower for a meal as an apology? If you don''t forgive me, dear fairy, I''ll chop off this leg of mine as an apology when I get home."


    Fairy Yu eyes revealed a slight smile. She had achieved her goal.


    The female sword cultivator and Nie Tianyuan frowned simultaneously.


    "Junior Sister..."


    "Young master..."


    "Alright, then I''ll ept your treat. I heard that the food at the Spring Dawn Tower is quite expensive," Fairy Yu agreed immediately.


    Dongfang Haojie eagerly led the way ahead, trying to please them. Before the female sword cultivator and Nie Tianyuan could react, the two of them had already left the Jade River Pavilion.


    "This..."


    Nie Tianyuan felt anger rise in his heart. This young master was always causing trouble.


    Nie Tianyuan nced at the female sword cultivator and noticed that her aura was quite ordinary. She only seemed to be in the Foundation Building Realm. He didn''t pay much attention and said casually, "Since my young master invited you for a meal, please join us."


    The female sword cultivator didn''t even look at him. She merely followed Dongfang Haojie out of the Jade River Pavilion.


    a faint smile flickered in Fang Chen''s eyes. With that, Dongfang Haojie had an additional safety measure.


    "<i>The Nascent Soul Realm cultivator from the Purple Extreme Dao Academy... If she''s not from the Spirit Blood Sect, it could serve as an ace in the hole,</i>" Fang Chen thought to himself.


    Not long after, Fang Chen returned to his quiet chamber and took out a porcin bottle.


    "Little Mirror, what should we do next?"


    "It''s simple, soak the Foundation Building Pill in his blood. In a day, it should be elevated to the saint grade. However, there may be some anomalies that arise during the process, which could lead to trouble if discovered by others," Little Zhou exined.


    Fang Chen smiled. "That''s easy."


    Due to the trade conference, the imperial family, the Jue Family, the Fang Family, and five other major Families were all busy preparing the venue. Fang Chen found a suitable ce in the nearby mountains and set up arge protective array with ready-made spirit materials. He also arranged six auxiliary arrays within it. Afterpleting all of this, he took out the Foundation Building Pill and threw it into the porcin bottle.


    As the Foundation Building Pill was soaked in Dongfang Haojie''s blood, an immediate reaction urred. The pill was like ake that had long since dried up finally encountering a sudden downpour as it continuously absorbed everything it could.


    "Little Zhou, is it really that simple?" Fang Chen asked while observing the changes in the Foundation Building Pill.


    "Some things, when taken to the extreme, return to simplicity, but this is far from simple," Little Zhou replied. "If it weren''t for the fact that this old man could obtain the blood of a descendant of the Dragon Blood Family, how could an ordinary Foundation Building Pill be promoted to the saint level? If I hadn''t informed you, how would you know that Dongfang Haojie is a descendant of the Dragon Blood Family?"


    "That makes sense," Fang Chen acknowledged, finding Little Mirror''s words reasonable. Its existence had indeed provided him with great assistance during this period. Even Little Sword owed it a favor.


    Fang Chen waited patiently.


    Soon, a day had passed.


    Suddenly, a dazzling golden light burst out from the porcin bottle, followed by the bottle exploding into powder.


    A reddish-golden pill slowly floated in mid-air.


    There were faint dragon-shaped phenomena appearing in the void, wandering around the pill.


    If it weren''t for the Green Sky Mountain Protection Grand Formation, the cultivators of Grand Qian would have seen several hundred-foot-long golden dragons appearing in the skies.


    "You''re lucky, my friend. That guy''s bloodline is quite pure. This Foundation Building Pill has now reached the second level of the saint grade. If you consume it, you''ll probably have a thirty percent chance of sessfully establishing your foundation!"

 Chapter 414 Welcoming the Nascent Soul with a Banquet

    <h4>Chapter 414 Weing the Nascent Soul with a Banquet</h4>


    "A second-level saint grade?" Fang Chen nodded lightly. "Thirty percent chance...."


    A thirty percent chance might seem low, but in reality, an average cultivator who consumed an ordinary Foundation Building Pill would only have a chance that didn''t even exceed ten percent. Thirty percent was already considered really high.


    After stashing away the Foundation Building Pill, Fang Chen turned and left the ce. As soon as he returned to his solitary courtyard, he saw Fang Wanli waiting for him.


    "I''ll escort you out of Grand Qian," Fang Wanli said with a solemn expression.


    Fang Chen was slightly surprised. "Why?"


    Li Cang and Chang Fen froze.


    Jiang Tianai became even more nervous than both of them. If Fang Chen left, what would happen to her?


    "Your identity as the descendant of Uncle Tingyuan has spread throughout the Imperial Capital. Nowadays, many families are gossiping about the events of four hundred years ago, which should have been forgotten by now. They have be rumors that are spreading on the streets. The situation is not quite right," Fang Wanli exined.


    Fang Chen understood. "So that''s the reason."


    Naturally, the instigators were none other than Fang Mosheng and Fang Lingxing. However, Fang Chen hadn''t expected Fang Wanli''s reaction to be of this magnitude. He actually wanted him to send him away from Grand Qian directly.


    Fang Chen shook his head lightly. "Even if this matter has spread, I still have unfinished business with Jue Wudi. How can I leave Grand Qian?"


    "I can dy the duel for you; that''s not a problem. What I''m worried about is that there might still be enemies and spies looking for Uncle Tingyuan in Grand Qian. If they learn about this matter, they might want to eradicate his rootspletely," Fang Wanli said. With a soft raise of his hand, he immediately trapped Fang Chen with his aura, seemingly intending to forcibly take him away.


    Fang Chen frowned. <i>Oh no...</i>


    He couldn''t just kill Fang Wanli, could he? If he were forcibly taken away, his entire n would fall apart. Not only was Dongfang Haojie in great danger, but even Fairy Yu and the others would also be at risk.


    Suddenly, a voice rang out. "Fang Wanli, who gave you permission to take Fang Chen away?"


    Fang Chen breathed a sigh of relief upon hearing this.


    Fang Tingjian had arrived.


    Fang Wanli was slightly startled, his expression somewhat unpleasant. "Uncle, Fang Chen is in great danger..."


    "Fortune and misfortune are unpredictable, but he doesn''t want to leave. Why do you need to do this?" Fang Tingjian shook his head lightly, then continued, "Both of you, follow me to the pce. The three Nascent Soul Realm experts from the Azure Cloud Empire have arrived. The royal family is hosting a banquet today to wee them. Also, bring along the younger talents, like Fang Lingxing, Fang Shang, Fang Jue, and Fang Xiu. Perhaps a senior will notice them and they''ll obtain some opportunities."


    Fang Wanli was helpless, looking somewhat disheartened.


    Three Nascent Soul Realm experts had already arrived, and the royal family was hosting a banquet?


    Fang Chen was slightly surprised. So the Spirit Blood Sect was nning to poison Dongfang Haojie during this event. In that case, even if Grand Qian jumped into the Yellow River, it would not be able to wash itself clean.


    Fang Chen sighed in relief. "Fortunately, Dongfang Haojie''s bloodline is special, rendering the poison useless. Once the Spirit Blood Sect realizes this, they will likely look for another opportunity."


    With this, he would have more time.


    He had originally thought that the Spirit Blood Sect intended to make their move at the start of the trade conference. Now he realized that he had been negligent and jumped to conclusions too soon.


    "It''s not toote. If the Spirit Blood Sect finds out that the poison can''t kill Dongfang Haojie, they will have no choice but to resort to a direct attack."


    "This way, they will reveal their ws. Those in the Golden Core Realm are not afraid to take action. If we can force Kunlong Battle General to personally intervene..." Fang Chen pondered. For them, this was a good thing. They were not afraid of the opponent taking action; they were afraid of the opponent constantly hiding in the dark.


    Before long, Fang Chen''s group gathered together and followed the two ancestors towards the direction of the pce. Fang Kun, Fang Mosheng, Fang Ao, and others at the Foundation Building Realm also came along.


    Fang Jue seemed a bit excited and whispered to Fang Chen and Fang Xiu, "We can witness the Nascent Soul Realm masters with our own eyes today. This opportunity is rare. Why aren''t you excited at all?"


    Fang Chen smiled without saying a word.


    Fang Xiu whispered back, "There''s no need to be too excited. Will the Nascent Soul Realm masters even notice us? They will only converse with the ancestors. We''re just there to add to the numbers."


    Upon hearing this, Fang Jue''s excitement diminished slightly.


    At the pce gate, they encountered many Golden Core Realm cultivators, including Immortal Tianwu, Jiang Shun, and Nie Tianyuan. The Golden Core Realm cultivators from the five major ns of the inner city were also present. Everyone greeted each other warmly, and Jiang Shun even nodded with a smile toward Fang Tingjian.


    Suddenly, a hoarse voice rang out. "Have I arrived toote, everyone?"


    Everyone turned to see thete-stage Golden Core Realm cultivator from the Jue Family. Jue Fei''an followed behind him, with other Foundation Building Realm cultivators and Jue Wudi behind him.


    Jue Wudi''s gaze fell directly on Fang Chen, his eyes indifferent. He didn''t show any emotional fluctuations.


    "<i>Fang Chen, Jue Wudi has been staring at you. Be careful, he might try to trip you up today</i>," Fang Jue reminded through a transmission.


    Fang Chen nodded lightly.


    Soon after, the Golden Core Realm cultivators immediately engaged in enthusiastic conversation with thete-stage Golden Core Realm cultivator from the Jue Family. Then, the group walked into the pce gate one after another.


    Many cultivators were standing on the street, watching the scene with envy on their faces. They had heard that three Nascent Soul Realm masters of the Azure Cloud Empire had arrived and that the royal family was hosting a banquet.


    "Ah, anyone who can sit at this banquet is a top-notch figure."


    "If only we could attend as well."


    "It would be wonderful just to stand outside the hall and take a look."


    "I wonder what the Nascent Soul Realm masters look like."


    "They probably look just like us, with two legs and two hands."


    The cultivators whispered to each other.


    A woman who was dressed as a peasant who held a mother hen in her hands stood at the corner of the street as she withdrew her gaze and sighed. "The foundation of a fifth-tier empire is indeed remarkable. it''s rare to even see a Golden Core Realm cultivator in the me Empire."


    Zhang Xiaoke had just seen Fang Chen and felt delighted. When he heard her master say so, he nodded in agreement.


    Yan Ruyue looked at the woman with a strange expression and said, "Master, I think I just saw the head of the Qingzhou Sword Sect."


    "Could it be that you''re seeing things, Sister?" Zhang Xiaoke quickly said. "Why would hee all the way over here?"


    "Your eyes must be ying tricks on you." The woman chuckled. "Even if that person came to Grand Qian, I''m afraid they wouldn''t qualify to attend this banquet."


    Zhang Xiaoke''s face showed a hint of seriousness. "Master, if the lord really came to Grand Qian, he should be qualified to attend this banquet."


    Slightly taken aback, the woman smiled. "You''re right. Back in the Heavenly Southern Sect, that person revealed his extraordinary background. Perhaps he did qualify to attend this banquet."


    After a pause, she continued, "During this time, you two should broaden your horizons. Once you''ve bought the spirit beast eggs, both of you should enter seclusion when we return to the sect."


    Not far away, in a teahouse.


    Abbess Qing He looked a bit pale. She rubbed her forehead and turned to Li Daoye beside her. "Make sure you remember to follow the n!"


    "Of course!" Li Daoye nodded quickly, holding his brush and ink.


    In recent days, he had already recorded many people. These people came from various ces, and with the lingering souls around them, they could all potentially be Spirit Blood Sect cultivators.


    After Abbess Qing He finished speaking, she looked to Abbess Zhu Yue behind her and said, "Master, I just saw the lord. He''s attending the banquet too."


    Abbess Zhu Yue nodded lightly. "He is a member of the Fang Family and should be eligible to attend."


    Fang Qingyao''s expression wasplicated.


    She thought that stepping onto the path of immortality would bring her closer to the lord, but now... she felt that the distance between them was only growing farther and farther.

 Chapter 415: Supreme Expert Dragon Wood

    Chapter 415: Supreme Expert Dragon Wood


    The Grand Qian Imperial Pce stood majestic and imposing, painted golden, with red tiles at the top. It exuded a solemn and dignified atmosphere throughout.


    Following the crowd, Fang Chen arrived at a spacious hall with open sides. Seats were already arranged here, awaiting the guests'' arrival.


    Not only were there seats for the Golden Core Realm cultivators, but there were also special tables prepared for the Foundation Building Realm cultivators and even Qi Refining Realm cultivators brought by the Golden Core Realm cultivators.


    After seating himself, Fang Chen''s divine soul spread out, and what came into view were thousands of tables. Countless pce maids and eunuchs bustled around, while outside the hall, elite guards of Grand Qian patrolled back and forth.


    Fang Chen''s gaze swept around. "Tong Hu, Tong Bozhou, Fang Shang, Jue Wudi. They are all here today."


    Then he looked at Nie Tianyuan, and Dongfang Haojie before his eyes finallynded on the Golden Core Realm cultivators like Immortal Tianwu.


    Nearly a hundred Golden Core Realm cultivators had arrived, with the majoritying from the Azure Cloud, Grand Wei, Chaoxiang, and Tianji.


    These Golden Core Realm cultivators had different auras, but they were mostly stuck at the bottleneck of the early stage of the Golden Core Realm. They were on par with Fang Wanli, Jue Fei''an, and Princess Shenlong.Only a very few were in the mid-stage Golden Core Realm. As for thete-stage, they were even fewer and could be counted on one hand.


    Suddenly, Fang Chen''s gaze was drawn to a slender figure. "Is this... a grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm cultivator?"


    The Golden Core Realm cultivator seated beside that person had been conversing with him all along, his words carrying a hint of politeness, even ttery.


    "Master Chen, my talismans have run out recently. When would you have the time to help me refine some more?"


    "Master Chen, my grandson is very interested in the Dao of Talismans. Would you be willing to allow him to cultivate under your sect?"


    "Master Chen¡­."


    Fang Chen understood what was going on. "So, he''s the talisman master."


    His gaze shifted elsewhere, to an area where the descendants of the Grand Qian royal family were seated.


    Leading them was Princess Shenlong, apanied by Qian Feng and Qian Jiuye. However, Qian Feng was surrounded by many princes and princesses, while Qian Jiuye appeared somewhat lonely, with only a middle-aged man who looked to be in his forties by his side.


    From their asional conversations, it could be inferred that the middle-aged man was the crown prince.


    <em>The second prince, Qian Feng, is seeking the position of crown prince, that''s why he''s forming cliques. The current crown prince only has Qian Jiuye by his side. His situation doesn''t seem too favorable,</em> Fang Chen thought with a faint smile.


    Struggles such as these were fairlymon within royal families. Back then, Xia Yu was simr. He had feared that the third prince, Xia Ji, would seize the throne from him, so he plotted against Xia Ji.


    As Xia Ji''s best friend, Fang Chen naturally became Xia Yu''s target.


    A few breathster, Fang Chen turned his attention to the cultivators from Chaoxiang.


    Chaoxiang only sent one Golden Core Realm cultivator, a female cultivator. However, behind her sat someone Fang Chen had seen before.


    <em>Chaoxiang Pce? So she''s from the fifth-tier Chaoxiang Empire. Judging by her surname, she should be a member of the royal family. In that case, the powerful Wuchang Mountain is either a major sect within the Chaoxiang Empire or possibly from the Hidden Immortal Empire,</em> thought Fang Chen.


    That was why, despite her young age, Mi Sheng from Chaoxiang Pce possessed the ability to refine her own Destiny Weapon.


    "Master Chanyuan has arrived."


    Everyone suddenly looked toward the entrance of the hall.


    Master Chanyuan, apanied by Xia Ji and Wu Ruochou, approached slowly. Upon entering the hall, they bowed to the crowd and recited a Buddhist chant before silently taking their seats.


    Many Golden Core Realm cultivators hadplex expressions upon seeing Chanyuan.


    Many people had heard about Master Chanyuan, inside and outside Grand Qian. His name was well known in even fifth-tier empires such as Grand Wei, Chaoxiang, and Tianji¡ªthe man who had lived for four hundred years despite being only a mere Foundation Building Realm.


    They had traveled from afar to see that Buddhist scripture that had allowed him to live as long as he did, but ultimately when they peered at it, they found nothing. It could only be said that Chanyuan''s Buddhist cultivation far exceeded their imagination.


    Jue Wudi''s eyes had been focused on Fang Chen, but the moment Xia Ji stepped into the hall, Jue Wudi turned his attention to him.


    Sensing his gaze, Xia Ji directly rolled his eyes at Jue Wudi. If not for the special asion today, he would''ve probably given him the middle finger.


    Xia Ji lowered his voice and pointed toward Fang Chen''s direction. "Master, may I sit over there?"


    Master Chanyuan nodded softly and said, "Don''t cause trouble. Today''s asion is special with the presence of the Nascent Soul Realm experts."


    "Master, rest assured." Xia Ji nodded and moved his table over to sit beside Fang Chen, even pushing Fang Jue slightly aside.


    Fang Jue grew curious when he saw him."Fellow Cultivator Xia, your cultivation seems to have advanced rapidly?"


    With a slight frown, Fang Lingxing, who was sitting nearby, cast a cold nce at Xia Ji, though a hint of doubt shed in her eyes.


    Why had Xia Ji''s cultivation improved so much in such a short time?


    Xia Ji chuckled. "Perhaps it''s due to my daily contemtion of Buddhist teachings, which has led to me gaining some insights."


    Xia Ji began to chat with Fang Jue while Fang Chen remained silent.


    Fang Chen''s gaze swept across the crowd of Golden Core Realm cultivators. Through the list provided by Abbess Qing He in the past few days, he had already noticed seven or eight Golden Core Realm cultivators who could potentially be members of the Spirit Blood Sect.


    "Is he that one with his eyes closed? Fang Chen of the Fang Family?"


    "It should be him. I heard he''s blind, a crippled man."


    "Have you heard the rumors these days? It seems like he''s a descendant of Fang Tingyuan."


    "Fang Tingyuan... Wasn''t he the number one genius who overshadowed the talents of the Azure Cloud Empire hundreds of years ago? Even the geniuses from the Azure Cloud Empire and Youxian countries paled inparison to him."


    "Indeed. Born in a fifth-tier empire, yet forcibly taken in by a certain major sect of a first-tier empire. Such talent, who canpare to him?"


    "It''s just a pity, his background and heritage were insufficient. He offended someone in a first-tier empire, that''s why he was wasted overnight."


    Many young cultivators were secretlymunicating through voice transmission, their eyes frequently ncing at Fang Chen. They were not from Grand Qian, but they knew about the formidable figure from hundreds of years ago.


    "Thank you for waiting, everyone."


    Suddenly, an old man walked slowly forward, followed by a Foundation Building Realm cultivator.


    The old man was none other than Qian Wuji, the Ancestor of Grand Qian, who had appeared in the Jade River Pavilion before. He was at the peak of the Golden Core Realm. And the cultivator behind him, without surprise, was the emperor of the Grand Qian, ying a role simr to Fang Kun in the Fang Family.


    After exchanging greetings with the Golden Core Realm cultivators, they cautiously inquired, "Fellow Cultivator Qian, I wonder if the three seniors are in the pce right now?"


    "I have received messages from the three seniors. They are on their way. Considering the time, they should be arriving soon," Qian Wuji replied with a smile.


    As soon as he finished speaking, a rainbow light descended into the hall. When the light dissipated, a dignified-looking monk, dressed in a crimson-golden robe, appeared before everyone.


    The monk smiled slightly at everyone. "Namo Amitabha, I hope I am not toote."


    It was Supreme Expert Dragon Wood from the Chenxiang Temple!


    The crowd''s eyes lit up, and they all stood up to bow and pay their respects. Even Fang Tingjian and others did not hesitate to show their courtesy.


    In the Azure Cloud Empire, there were three major sects, and the Chenxiang Temple was one of them!

 Chapter 416: In a Bind

    Chapter 416: In a Bind


    "No need for formalities, everyone," said Supreme Expert Dragon Wood with a smile.


    Supreme Expert Dragon Wood and the Golden Core Realm cultivators exchanged greetings before taking their seats.


    His demeanor captivated the crowd. Despite being a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator, he exuded a sense of gentle tranquility, akin to the silent nourishment of spring rain.


    He was truly worthy of being a master of the Buddhist sect.


    Fang Chen''s divine soul lingered in mid-air, observing Supreme Expert Dragon Wood.


    <em>He arrived here in the form of a rainbow, so Abbess Qing He shouldn''t have been able to see him.</em>


    Supreme Expert Dragon Wood''s aura was indeed more profound than that of a Golden Core Realm cultivator. He seemed to exude immense pressure with each of his movements.


    With every movement, it felt like he carried immense pressure. Even with his amiable demeanor, the young cultivators present couldn''t help but feel their breath quicken.


    Before they could fully regain theirposure, they heard what seemed like a tiger''s roar echoing in their ears. In the blink of an eye, a white tiger appeared in the hall."Is this...?"


    "Immortal White Tiger of Jade Void Mountain?"


    Many Golden Core Realm cultivators wore expressions of solemnity, their eyes betraying a hint of fear and trepidation.


    Immortal White Tiger was the only Nascent Soul demonic cultivator in Azure Cloud Empire, known to rarely leave Jade Void Mountain for cultivation.


    Never had they imagined that among the Nascent Soul Realm cultivators present, there would be such a formidable figure.


    Years ago, Immortal White Tiger had flown into a rage over a certain matter, during which at least ten Golden Core Realm cultivators had lost their lives at his hands!


    The Golden Core Realm cultivators all bowed in unison. "We pay our respects to Immortal White Tiger."


    Immortal White Tiger couldn''t even be bothered to raise his eyes and look at them. He directed his gaze at Supreme Expert Dragon Wood instead.


    "Longshu, where''s Immortal Void Rush? Why isn''t she here yet?"


    The crowd''s expressions turned uneasy.


    This was the attitude expected from a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator when they dealt with Golden Core Realm cultivators. Nascent Soul Realm cultivators like Supreme Expert Dragon Wood who treated cultivators beneath them politely were notmon.


    Supreme Expert Dragon Wood smiled. "Immortal Void Rush is bringing two disciples with her this time around, so she might''ve been met with some dy."


    "Oh," uttered Immortal White Tiger, nodding lightly. His gaze swept across the Golden Core Realm cultivators present, his eyes faintly revealing a hint of ferocity.


    The Golden Core Realm cultivators who were scrutinized by him couldn''t help but break out in a cold sweat, feeling as if they had been doused with cold water as a chilling sensation crept into their hearts.


    Suddenly, Immortal White Tiger''s gaze fell on Fang Chen, and he said lightly, "Is this kid the descendant of Fang Tingyuan?"


    The crowd was slightly startled, and whether they knew Fang Chen or not, all eyes turned to him because of Immortal White Tiger''s words.


    Fang Wanli felt somewhat puzzled. Why did Immortal White Tiger suddenly mention this? Could it be that he was involved in the events of that year?


    Fang Mosheng was calm on the surface, but he was secretly rejoicing. It seemed that Immortal White Tiger recognized him in connection with the incident involving Fang Tingyuan. Otherwise, why would he mention it as soon as he arrived in Grand Qian?


    Fang Tingjian stood up, bowed, and then began to speak, his voice neither servile nor overbearing, "Immortal White Tiger, this child is indeed the descendant of my eldest brother."


    "I didn''t expect that a descendent of Fang Tingyuan would return to the capital." Immortal White Tiger sneered coldly. "I wonder if this child''s talent canpare to Fang Tingyuan''s?"


    Fang Tingjian nced at Fang Chen and said calmly, "He certainly cannotpare to my eldest brother. He is still young. He still has a long way to go. Thank you for your concern, Immortal White Tiger."


    Fang Chen''s consciousness quietly observed Immortal White Tiger, with a hint of contemtion in his eyes. <em>Immortal White Tiger is rted to the matter with Ancestor Tingyuan¡­.</em>


    Immortal Tianwu and the others were surprised.


    "So this kid is a descendant of Fang Tingyuan¡­."


    Jiang Shun''s face had originally worn a faint smile, but when he heard Immortal White Tiger''s words, his smile froze, and he slowly looked at Fang Chen with a hint of sternness shing in his eyes.


    Mi Sheng was stunned. "How could it be him..."


    A Golden Core Realm cultivator from Chaoxiang suddenly turned around and nced at Mi Shen. "Mi Sheng, what''s wrong? You seem to recognize this kid?".


    "<em>Aunt, he is the one who saved me back then</em>," Mi Sheng hurriedly transmitted her voice.


    The Golden Core Realm cultivator from Chaoxiang was slightly taken aback at first, then looked at Fang Chen thoughtfully.


    Dongfang Haojie looked uncertain as he nced at Nie Tianyuan. "A descendant of Fang Tingyuan? Uncle Nie, my father once said that if Fang Tingyuan had not encountered that crisis, he might have be the first Nascent Soul Realm cultivator in the history of Grand Qian."


    "I have heard of him." Nie Tianyuan nodded lightly. "Indeed, his talent was extraordinary and he was valued by a major sect in a first-tier empire."


    "Incredible. The aptitude of a descendant of such a genius can''t be low, right?" Dongfang Haojie muttered to himself as he looked at Fang Chen,


    "Young age?" Immortal White Tiger chuckled. "Wasn''t Fang Tingyuan very young too back then? He was only forty or fifty at the time, I believe. He stepped into the Golden Core Realm and suppressed all the geniuses of the Hidden Cloud Region. He was unparalleled for a while."


    "If it weren''t for that incident back then, I would be calling him a peer now. Hahaha." The strangeughter of Immortal White Tiger echoed in the hall, and everyone''s expressions were both strange andplicated.


    For Fang Tingyuan to be remembered by a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator for so many years indirectly confirmed how monstrous he had been.


    Who would''ve thought that a descendant of Fang Tingyuan would someday return?


    Immortal White Tiger lifted his w and beckoned to Fang Chen. "Come,e,e, young one, let me test your foundation. If your foundation is eptable, why note with me to cultivate under the Jade Void Mountain?"


    Cultivate under the Jade Void Mountain?


    How could the path of a demon cultivator be suitable for a human cultivator?


    Immortal White Tiger was obviously mocking Fang Chen.


    Almost everyone could now be sure that Fang Tingyuan had offended Immortal White Tiger in the past.


    Fang Tingjian smiled and said, "Elder, you must be joking. How could this junior be qualified to have you pay any attention to him?"


    Fang Wanli secretlyined in his heart. If only Fang Tingjian had listened to him, they wouldn''t have been met with this trouble!


    Fang Xiu and Fang Jue showed expressions of shock.


    But Fang Shang wore a smirk on his face.


    "Fang Chen is in trouble," Qian Feng said with a strange smile, transmitting to the princes and princesses beside him.


    Qian Jiuye frowned slightly, discreetly ncing at Immortal White Tiger. Why was a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator holding onto a grudge for so long? It seemed too petty.


    "<em>Perhaps you won''t need to take action. Fang Chen seems to be already overwhelmed</em>," Tong Baizhou transmitted to Jue Wudi.


    "<em>I still prefer to defeat him with my own hands</em>," Jue Wudi said expressionlessly.


    Tong Baizhou smiled faintly, a hint of disdain shing in his eyes.


    Someone else was already offering to get the job done for him, yet Jue Wudi was unwilling to ept the borrowed hand. What did that prove?


    Immortal White Tiger''s gaze turned cold as he looked at Fang Tingjian. "When did I tell you I was joking?"


    Sensing that the atmosphere had turned tense, another rainbow light descended into the hall. As the light dissipated, three figures came into view.


    One of them was dressed in purple, exuding a majestic aura, with a cold and elegant demeanor, and a faint gleam of coldness in their eyes.


    The other two were rtively young, a man and a woman, both at the early Foundation Building Realm.


    The man had handsome features with sword-like eyebrows and starry eyes.


    The woman had skin as fair as snow, possessing a stunning beauty that rivaled that of a fairy.


    The crowd''s spirits lifted.


    "Immortal Void Rush!"


    Dongfang Haojie''s eyes lit up. "Fairy Tianyin!"


    True Monarch Immortal Void Rush coldly stared at Immortal White Tiger. "Immortal White Tiger, you''re a Nascent Soul Realm demon cultivator, why bother troubling a junior?"


    "<em>So True Monarch Immortal Void Rush is a woman</em>," thought Fang Chen.


    If Dongfang Haojie wasn''t lying, then the person before him was a member of the Dragon Blood Family and a Nascent Soul expert from the Purple Pole Dao Academy in the Azure Cloud Empire!

 Chapter 417: Look, Im Fine Now

    Chapter 417: Look, I''m Fine Now


    "Immortal Void Rush, when have I ever troubled a junior? Don''t falsely use me," said the Immortal White Tiger in a muffled voice. "I just happened to take an interest in him because he is a descendant of Fang Tingyuan."


    Immortal Void Rush looked at Fang Chen. A hint of surprise shed in her cold gaze. "A descendant of Fang Tingyuan?"


    After scrutinizing Fang Chen for several moments, she turned to Fang Tingjian. "Tingjian, is this young man truly a descendant of Fang Tingyuan?"


    "Immortal Void Rush, Fang Chen is indeed a bloodline descendant of my elder brother," Fang Tingjian replied with a respectful salute. Then, he looked at Fang Chen. "Why don''t you pay your respects to Immortal Void Rush? Your ancestor once practiced under her for several years."


    The crowd was surprised. This was the first time they had heard of this. No wonder Immortal Void Rush intervened when the Immortal White Tiger troubled the members of the Fang Family.


    Jiang Shun''s expression became even uglier. Few knew that initially, this opportunity should''ve been his. However, Fang Tingyuan had taken it away from him. If it weren''t for that, he would have been the one practicing under Immortal Void Rush.


    Fang Chen''s divine soul returned to his body, and he saluted respectfully. "I, Fang Chen, greet Immortal Void Rush."


    Chaoxiang Pce''s Mi Sheng was immediately enlightened. "No wonder he''s so extraordinary; his background is not simple at all."


    However, this made sense. Why else would such a formidable figure rise from a backwater ce like that? It turned out that his origin was no less prestigious than hers.Immortal Void Rush nodded slightly but didn''t say much. After she took her seat, it was as if the incident just now had never happened. Immortal White Tiger also stopped bothering Fang Chen.


    The Ancestor of Grand Qian noticed the situation and took on the role of the host, announcing the start of the banquet. The hall then became lively, with Golden Core Realm cultivators toasting each other, some even daring to toast to Supreme Expert Dragon Wood and Immortal Void Rush.


    However, no one dared to toast to Immortal White Tiger. Fang Mosheng, apanied by Fang Lingxing, squeezed their way to Master Chen, attempting to get closer to him.


    Dongfang Haojie raised his cup and headed straight for Fairy Tianyin, only to be one-upped by Jue Wudi. When Dongfang Haojie saw Jue Wudi talking to Fairy Tianyin, his face turned sour. Equally displeased was Fang Lingxing, who had been keeping an eye on Jue Wudi.


    When Fairy Tianyin appeared, Fang Lingxing felt a sense of crisis rising within her. In terms of both appearance and cultivation, she fell shortpared to Fairy Tianyin.


    Fang Tingjian, apanied by Fang Jue, approached Immortal Void Rush and asked softly. "Immortal Void Rush, recently, I obtained an invitation from the Purple Pole Dao Academy for an apprenticeship. I n to let Fang Jue participate in the assessment of the institute. Would it be possible for you to take him with you on your way back?"


    Immortal Void Rush nced at Fang Jue and then nodded with a faint smile at Fang Tingjian. "I will take him with me on my way back, but whether he can be epted into the Purple Pole Dao Academy will depend on his own performance."


    Fang Tingjian saluted respectfully. "I understand."


    Fang Ao looked on from afar, feeling emotional. His eyes couldn''t help but fall on Fang Chen. "This kid is too quiet, and he has an ethereal aura around him even on such an asion. He''s truly a cultivation gem."


    At that moment, Fang Chen''s divine soul had already left his body, standing above the main hall and observing all the cultivators present. If the Spirit Blood Sect were to make a move, it would probably happen at that moment. He wanted to see if anyone would reveal their true intentions. Unfortunately, even Tong Hu stood far away, showing no intention of approaching Dongfang Haojie. As for the others, their expressions were normal, revealing no clues.


    "Something is not right."


    Fang Chen''s gaze shifted immediately toward Jue Wudi. He was the closest to Dongfang Haojie at the moment. But would the Spirit Blood Sect let a Foundation Building Realm cultivator be the one to take the lead in such an important matter?


    Dongfang Haojie raised his cup and butted into the conversation of Fairy Tianyin and Jue Wudi, unable to bear seeing them talk so much together. "Fairy Tianyin, do you remember me? I''m Dongfang Haojie from Grand Wei."


    "Dongfang Haojie?" Fairy Tianyin frowned slightly, then shook her head gently. "Have I ever met you before?"


    The handsome young man beside Fairy Tianyin smirked faintly, looking at Dongfang Haojie with a hint of sarcasm. "My junior sister is chatting with Senior Jue. Your interruption seems rather impolite."


    Jue Wudi smiled. "It doesn''t matter."


    Dongfang Haojie frowned. "I''m talking to Fairy Tianyin. What does it have to do with you?"


    The handsome young man was taken aback, seemingly surprised by Dongfang Haojie''s reaction. His gaze suddenly turned colder.


    Just then, Dongfang Haojie suddenly sprayed out a stream of blood, directly sshing onto Jue Wudi and Fairy Tianyin''s faces. The handsome young man reacted quickly, using his spiritual power to create a barrier to block the blood mist, preventing himself from being tainted with blood.


    Dongfang Haojie covered his stomach and took steps back. "Ouch, it hurts!"


    Jue Wudi and Fairy Tianyin stared at each other in astonishment.


    "What''s going on?!"


    Themotion quickly caught the attention of everyone present. When they saw what had happened, their faces turned pale.


    Fang Chen''s expression twisted slightly. "This guy is bluffing!"


    Dongfang Haojie had been clearly poisoned. But there were only two possibilities. Either Dongfang Haojie was bluffing, or the Spirit Blood Sect had brought in one of the world''s top poisons!


    "Young Master!" Nie Tianyuan eximed, quickly walking over to support Dongfang Haojie. Then, his expression changed abruptly, and he shouted angrily, "My young master has been poisoned! Who dares to poison my young master? If anything happens to him, there will be war between Grand Wei and Grand Qian!"


    Immortal Tianwu''s expression was extremely solemn. "How could this happen¡­?"


    He was a cultivator of Grand Wei too and had heard some rumors about the Dongfang Family. If the young master of the Dongfang Family were to die in Grand Qian, then... perhaps, as Nie Tianyuan said, there would be war between the two empires!


    "Was it you?!" Nie Tianyuan suddenly pointed at Jue Wudi. "You were closest to the young master just now. Did you poison him?! What are your intentions, Grand Qian!"


    Jue Wudi''s face turned pale, but he didn''t offer any exnations. He only turned to look toward his ancestor.


    Ate-stage Golden Core Realm cultivator from the Jue n''s expression darkened. "Friend Nie, do not falsely use our family."


    They couldn''t allow Jue Wudi to be used of such a thing.


    The expressions of the Golden Core Realm cultivators present became extremely serious.


    The cultivators from the Chaoxiang Pce had already stood up and walked over to Nie Tianyuan''s side, their expressions very grim. Just like the Grand Wei, the Chaoxiang Pce was also a part of the Hidden Immortal Realm, and naturally they would stand together at a time like this.


    "Everyone, please remain calm. Let me take a look at what poison he''s been afflicted with," said the Immortal Void Rush, a hint of imperceptible sarcasm shing in her eyes.


    Immortal White Tiger looked as if he was just watching a show.


    Supreme Expert Dragon Wood recited a Buddhist mantra, "Amitabha, let Immortal Void Rush take a look at this young friend; she has considerable knowledge of medicine."


    Princess Shenlong looked towards the Grand Qian Ancestor. "Uncle¡­."


    "Watch closely," said the Grand Qian Ancestor calmly.


    Dongfang Haojie, who was originally pale-faced and hunched over, suddenly straightened up, his expression bing somewhat ruddy. He smiled at Nie Tianyuan and said, "Uncle Nie, don''t be so nervous. The Dongfang Family''s constitution is special. How can I be so easily poisoned to death? Look, I''m fine now."


    A look of astonishment shed in Nie Tianyuan''s eyes. The Golden Core Realm cultivators present all looked at each other.

 Chapter 418: The Fight between the Sandpiper and the Clam

    Chapter 418: The Fight between the Sandpiper and the m


    Fang Chen sighed inwardly. "This guy..."


    He had figured it out. Dongfang Haojie was just messing around with Nie Tianyuan. However, he didn''t agree with Dongfang Haojie''s actions, as this might lead to suspicions from the Spirit Blood Sect. But fortunately, Dongfang Haojie hadn''t actually been poisoned, so things hadn''t yet reached a point of no return.


    "Are you really alright, Young Master?" Nie Tianyuan was a little dazed, but his face soon showed joy. "It''s good that you''re fine! If something happened to you in the Grand Qian, what will I say to the patriarch?"


    Jue Wudi furrowed his brows slightly. "Since you weren''t poisoned, why did you spray blood all over our faces just now?"


    There was a hint of anger on the face of the Fairy Tianyin.


    "Who said I wasn''t poisoned?" Dongfang Haojie sneered. "I was indeed poisoned just now. Someone in this hall wanted to kill me, but fortunately, with my extraordinary talent and bloodline, I didn''t sumb to the poison!"


    The crowd was surprised. He had really been poisoned?


    Was there really someone in Grand Qian trying to harm Dongfang Haojie? Or... was someone deliberately trying to frame the Grand Qian?


    Thinking of this, everyone''s gaze couldn''t help but shift to the various Golden Core Realm cultivators present. These Golden Core Realms were all from fifth-grade empires. If you talked about how good their rtionship was with the Grand Qian, it was a joke. Almost all the Golden Core Realms present were suspects."Three seniors, I''m afraid someone is trying to harm Grand Qian." Qi¨¢n W¨²j¨¬ bowed to the three Nascent Soul Realm seniors, his expression solemn. "I would like to ask the seniors to uphold justice."


    The gazes of the crowd were withdrawn from Dongfang Haojie and fell on the three Nascent Soul Realm seniors.


    Fang Chen had been observing the expressions of those Golden Core Realm experts all along. They mostly had the same reactions¡ªastonishment, confusion, and suspicion. This also included Tong Hu. It would be difficult to uncover who among them were affiliates of the Spirit Blood Sect merely by their reactions.


    "Uphold justice? How would we do that?" Immortal White Tigerzily remarked. "What evidence is there to prove that Grand Qian isn''t actually plotting against this junior?"


    Qian Wuji''s expression changed slightly, and he said in a low voice, "If the Young Master of the Dongfang Family dies in the Grand Qian, it''s of no benefit to us. When the sandpiper and the m fight, it''s the fisherman who benefits!"


    With a sharp look, he nced at the representatives from Chaoxiang, Tianji, and other Golden Core Realm cultivators from fifth-tier empires.


    Princess Shenlong was even more direct, saying coldly, "Whoever was responsible for this despicable act might as welle forward. Even if you don''t admit it, Grand Qian won''t let it go easily. We will definitely find out who you are."


    "Princess Shenlong, what does that look supposed to mean?" A Golden Core Realm showed displeasure. "We also want to know who did it. You have no evidence, so what are you suspecting us for?"


    "If you want to point fingers, you need to provide evidence."


    Several Golden Core Realm experts chimed in.


    Fang Wanli frowned. <em>This is really strange. Something doesn''t seem right today.</em>


    Fang Kun, Fang Mosheng, Fang Ao, and others exchanged nces, their expressions quite serious. They couldn''t help but think about what the consequences of Dongfang Haojie''s death in the Grand Qian would be.


    These consequences were chilling.


    If the Grand Qian went to war against Grand Wei, neither mortals nor cultivators would be safe from the chaos. By then, whether mortals or cultivators, casualties would be inevitable!


    Fang Ao''s expression was grim. "Who could be so malicious?"


    He didn''t believe that Qian Wuji and the others would do such a thing. Someone had to be trying to frame them and paint them as the culprits for their own benefit! someone


    Xia Ji appeared to be just watching the show, but in reality, his mind was already very heavy. He couldn''t help but nce at Fang Chen. When he saw that Fang Chen was still calm andposed, he couldn''t help but feel suspicious. Why was Fang Chen so calm when Dongfang Haojie had almost died just now?


    "<em>Fang Da, what are you nning to do? If this continues, Spirit Blood Sect cultivators will inevitably make another move, and Dongfang Haojie will have no way out,</em>" Xia Ji transmitted his thoughts.


    "<em>Everything''s fine for now. Dongfang Haojie isn''t that easy to kill. He has his own cards to y, and he''s also close to Immortal Void Rush,</em>" Fang Chen replied.


    Xia Ji was slightly taken aback. "He''s close to Immortal Void Rush?"


    Xia Ji felt relieved, however. With a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator looking out for him, Dongfang Haojie indeed wouldn''t be that easy to kill.


    Supreme Expert Dragon Wood spoke slowly. "You don''t have to argue, everyone. Until the truth is revealed, it''s pointless to quarrel."


    The arguing inside the hall quieted down immediately. The hall becamepletely silent.


    "Supreme Expert Dragon Wood is right. It''s futile to argue like this before the truth is revealed." Immortal Void Rush nodded gently. Then, she waved to Dongfang Haojie and said, "Come over here, let me take a look."


    Dongfang Haojie immediately ran to Immortal Void Rush. She lightly held his pulse, her face showing a pensive expression.


    Everyone watched this scene intently.


    After a while, Immortal Void Rush nodded slowly. "He did indeed get poisoned just now."


    The expressions of everyone became even more serious.


    "Let''s do this," Immortal Void Rush said lightly. "Until we know who did it, you should stay by my side, just in case."


    "Thank you, Immortal Void Rush!" Dongfang Haojie''s eyes immediately lit up, expressing his gratitude repeatedly. Then, he winked at Fairy Tianyin and looked smugly at Jue Wudi.


    Jue Wudi frowned slightly, while Fairy Tianyin hesitated to speak.


    "This is indeed a good solution. With Immortal Void Rush''s protection, he won''t be in danger."


    Various thoughts surged through the minds of the people present.


    At this moment, some were happy, while others were worried.


    "I think it''s better to end this banquet now." Immortal White Tiger smirked. "One can''t even enjoy the food and drinks now, so why stay here?"


    Immortal Void Rush and Supreme Expert Dragon Wood both agreed to disband the banquet. Qian Wuji and the others naturally had no objections.


    The banquet, which had been going well, ended abruptly like this, and the various Golden Core Realm cultivators gradually left the pce.


    <em>Worked out better than I expected. Immortal Void Rush is willing to keep Dongfang Haojie by her side. Now, if they want him dead, only that Kunlong War General personally making a move would make it possible,</em> Fang Chen thought as he walked with the crowd.


    Things were developing in a positive direction, but he had anotheryer of concern.


    If the Spirit Blood Sect felt that killing Dongfang Haojie was too difficult, would they change their ns and use other means to achieve their goals?


    A voice suddenly rang out. "Fang Chen."


    Many people subconsciously stopped to watch.


    Fang Chen turned to face Jue Wudi. "What''s the matter?"


    "The day after tomorrow, on the day the trade conference begins, I will have a duel with you in the hunting grounds. Don''t forget," said Jue Wudi as he smiled faintly. He then left with his ancestor in a chic manner.


    "He''s going to have a duel with Jue Wudi?" Mi Sheng was shocked. After all, Jue Wudi was at the Foundation Building Realm, while Fang Chen... was only at the Qi Refining Realm.


    Several senior brothers from Sui Nianhua''s group showed a hint of schadenfreude. "Junior Sister, it seems the rumors are true. Let''s see who wille out on top between Jue Wudi and Fang Chen."


    Sui Nianhua sneered. "He''s only at the Qi Refining Realm. If they really fight head-on, he can''t possibly be a match for Jue Wudi."


    The juniors brought by various Golden Core Realm cultivators were very excited.


    One was the contemporary genius of the Jue Family while the other was a descendant of the infamous Fang Family genius from four hundred years ago.


    The significance of the fight between these two was extraordinary.


    "<em>Fang Chen, are you confident in winning?</em>" Xia Ji transmitted his thoughts to confirm once again.


    Fang Chen nodded slightly. "Very confident."


    Xia Ji''s lips curled slightly upward. "That''s good. In two days, I want to see the face of this self-righteous guy when he ends up crying."

 Chapter 419: Unworthy of Living in This World

    <h4>Chapter 419: Unworthy of Living in This World</h4>


    "Master, Senior Sister, I''ll hang around with Fang Chen for a while. You two return to the Profound Void Temple without me. I''ll returnter."


    After bidding farewell to Master Chanyuan and Wu Ruochou, Xia Ji followed Fang Chen and the others to the Fang Family manor.


    On the way, Fang Lingxing asionally made sarcastic remarks toward Xia Ji, but Xia Ji countered each one. Fang Moseng was visibly very angry, but Fang Kun and the others remained indifferent.


    The elders only took it as children bickering. Not to mention that Xia Ji had Master Chanyuan and Fang Chen behind him, so they didn''t dawdle on what he did.


    Fang Lingxing snorted inwardly, then exchanged a few words with Fang Moseng before bidding farewell to the two ancestors. Leaving, she muttered, "After Elder Brother Jue defeats Fang Chen, let''s see how the two of you fare...."


    "Is that girl going to find Jue Wudi again?" Fang Wanli furrowed his brow. "I think you should advise her to avoid associating with the members of the Jue Family."


    Before Fang Moseng could speak, Fang Tingjian said indifferently, "The younger generation has their own thoughts. Why should we old folks meddle in their affairs?"


    Fang Wanli fell silent.


    "<i>Fang Chen, what are you thinking? If you have anything on your mind, just say it. We can analyze it together,</i>" Xia Ji transmitted via telepathy, unable to help himself when he noticed how quiet Fang Chen was along the way.


    "<i>Nothing much, just curious how Jue Wudi poisoned Dongfang Haojie</i>," Fang Chen replied.


    "<i>We have low cultivation levels. They must have countless ways to poison him without our notice. It''s not weird that you weren''t able to see it. Now that Dongfang Haojie is following a Nascent Soul Realm expert from the Purple Pole Dao Academy, he shouldn''t be in much danger,</i>" Xia Ji replied via telepathy.


    Fang Chen remained silent.


    Xia Ji was unaware that Fang Chen¡¯s divine soul was exceptional and that it wasn''t the same as ordinary people''s. Unless a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator had taken action, it was difficult to hide under Fang Chen''s eye.


    Furthermore, Fang Chen believed that even if those Nascent Soul Realm experts took action, he would definitely be able to detect some clues. They shouldn''t be able to erase every trace.


    "<i>Speaking of which, that fat guy is quite impressive, isn''t he? His constitution can resist all poisons? Even the Spirit Blood Sect couldn''t poison him to death. From his appearance earlier, I didn''t expect him to have such ability</i>," said Xia Ji.


    Fang Chen was slightly surprised and asked, "<i>Have you seen Dongfang Haojie before? Was it in the Immortal Origin District?</i>"


    "<i>I haven''t had time to go to the Immortal Origin District recently. I saw him at the Profound Void Temple. This morning, he and the Golden Core Realm expert beside him came to the Profound Void Temple to look at the scriptures,</i>" Xia Ji replied with a hint of sarcasm. "<i>Many Golden Core Realm experts havee to the Profound Void Temple during this period. They all want to extend their lives by studying those scriptures.</i>"


    "Observing scriptures, huh..." Fang Chen pondered.


    There was another possibility. Dongfang Haojie was poisoned beforehand, not during the banquet. The poison only took effect during the banquet. If that''s the case, it would be difficult to determine who poisoned him. Nie Tianyuan was highly suspected since he had been by Dongfang Haojie''s side the whole time.


    After they returned to the secluded courtyard, Xia Ji and Fang Chen entered a quiet room.


    "Fang Chen, what''s the next step? If the Spirit Blood Sect''s n has failed, they might have other schemes," Xia Ji said with a serious expression.


    "Unless something unexpected happens, the hidden Kunlong Battle General may take the opportunity to attack Dongfang Haojie," Fang Chen pondered.


    "Hidden Kunlong Battle General?" Xia Ji was slightly surprised, his expression odd. "Has he already arrived in Grand Qian?"


    "He may have been in Grand Qian all along," Fang Chen replied.


    Xia Ji pped his thigh, his face suddenly enlightened. "Why didn''t I think of that? He''s quite cunning. Topletely disrupt the Hidden Cloud Region, how could the Spirit Blood Sect''s Nascent Soul Realm experts not personally oversee it? It wouldn''t make sense for them toe after the fact."


    "You should stay here at the Fang manor these days instead of returning to the Profound Void Temple," said Fang Chen. He then joked, "Your senior sister can skip a few rounds of your homemade soups."


    "That''s true, but I still prefer the Profound Void Temple. The scenery is better there, and I have my senior sister to keep mepany." Xia Ji smiled, then lightly patted Fang Chen''s shoulder. "Because of my low cultivation level, I am of little help when ites to this matter. If... this turns out to be beyond us, let''s run away together. There won''t be a shortage of other chances to make a rise in the future."


    With those words, Xia Ji got up and left, not giving Fang Chen a chance to respond, as if he hade specifically to say that.


    "Fate can ovee the heavens," Fang Chen murmured, a glint shing in his grayish-white eyes.


    Indeed, his cultivation was far inferior to the Spirit Blood Sect''s Golden Core and Nascent Soul Realm experts. Their foundations were worlds apart. In front of the Spirit Blood Sect, he was nothing but a mere ant. But now, with the advantage of information and him lurking in the shadows, coupled with some good help, he might have a chance.


    Using his divine soul, Fang Chen arrived at a grand hall in the imperial pce. Dongfang Haojie was standing respectfully before Immortal Void Rush.


    ¡°Nie Tianyuan is not here, and the two disciples brought by Immortal Void Rush are also absent.¡±


    A majestic and vigorous spiritual power formed a barrier around them. This was Immortal Void Rush''s technique, and it made it difficult for even Nascent Soul Realm cultivators to sneak up on them.


    "Senior Void Rush, that''s the situation. The Spirit Blood Sect ns to use me as bait to turn the Hidden Cloud Region into their furnace for refining Blood Spirit Pills," Dongfang Haojie exined.


    He fell silent, waiting for Immortal Void Rush''s response.


    Immortal Void Rush remained silent for a few moments before speaking. "Do you know the identity of the cultivator who told you about this?"


    "No, I don''t. Is it possible that it was Immortal White Tiger or Supreme Expert Dragon Wood?" Dongfang Haojie frowned. "He knew that I am a member of the Dragon Blood Family and he knew of the Spirit Blood Sect''s plot. His strength is definitely above the Nascent Soul Realm."


    "Maybe he is, maybe he isn''t. But his actions don''t match either of their styles." Immortal Void Rush shook her head softly. "They wouldn''t easily antagonize the Spirit Blood Sect; they value their lives too much."


    Dongfang Haojie''s expression was odd. "Senior Void Rush, do you believe his words? From my perspective, this matter might also be a ploy by certain individuals to provoke a war between Grand Qian and Grand Wei for their own benefit."


    A faint cold sneer appeared at the corner of Immortal Void Rush''s mouth, and a glint of cold mockery shed in her eyes. "Do you really think that there''s no one in this world searching for traces of the Spirit Blood Sect? If not, why would they act so covertly? In first-tier empires, there are influential figures attempting topletely uproot the Spirit Blood Sect.


    "That''s why they don''t easily expose their whereabouts. These influential figures once said, ''Since the Spirit Blood Sect wants to hide in the shadows, then we shall learn from them and hide in the shadows too. Let''s see who shows their hand first,''" Immortal Void Rush exined.


    Fang Chen''s eyes shed with surprise. "This...."


    Dongfang Haojie looked incredulous. "Senior Void Rush, are you suggesting...?"


    "Since the day I ascended to Nascent Soul Realm, I''ve been doing one thing. I have been finding the remnants of the Spirit Blood Sect and sending them into the cycle of reincarnation," Immortal Void Rush''s gaze was indifferent. "These people don''t deserve to live in this world."


    Pausing for a moment, Immortal Void Rush looked at Dongfang Haojie. "We''ve long known that the Spirit Blood Sect has always nned to use the Hidden Cloud Region as a furnace to refine Blood Spirit Pills. There are many of our cultivators in the Imperial Capital too. You''ll stay by my side. If the Spirit Blood Sect turns desperate, they''ll reveal their hand. At that time, I will wipe out all their bases in the Hidden Cloud Region!"


    Dongfang Haojie was speechless.


    Fang Chen was stunned for a moment, then a slightly relieved smile appeared on his face. Turns out that there were influential figures working tobat the Spirit Blood Sect as well. He suddenly felt the heavy stone pressing on his chest loosen a bit.

 Chapter 420: Killing Spiritual Division

    <h4>Chapter 420: Killing Spiritual Division</h4>


    "This makes more sense. If there wasn''t anyone paying attention, the Blood Spirit Sect would have openly ughtered any form of life they liked to refine Blood Spirit Pills long ago. Why bother hiding behind the scenes?"


    Looking at Immortal Void Rush, Fang Chen felt a sense of camaraderie rising within him.


    From her words, it was evident that she hade to Grand Qian prepared and had secretly deployed personnel, waiting for the Blood Spirit Sect to reveal their hand.


    "The Blood Spirit Sect has its people, but there are people behind Immortal Void Rush too. Kunlong Battle General is at the Nascent Soul Realm, just like Immortal Void Rush. Their strengths are evenly matched."


    "Remember, you need to be prepared during this time. The Blood Spirit Sect may strike at any moment to kill you," Immortal Void Rush said again, looking at Dongfang Haojie.


    "Immortal Void Rush, I have a question. Since the Blood Spirit Sect''s poisoning attempt failed, wouldn''t it be obvious what their intentions were? Even if no one knew that they were the ones who did it, everyone would be able to piece together that it wasn''t Grand Qian who assassinated me, so the Blood Spirit Sect wouldn''t be able to achieve their intended goal. Would they still try to assassinate me?" Dongfang Haojie voiced his doubts.


    Immortal Void Rush sneered. "The Blood Spirit Sect is unpredictable in this regard. Do you really think that their men are only stationed in Grand Qian? The Azure Cloud Empire, Hidden Immortal Empire... All of them have cultivators of the Spirit Blood Sect. As long as there''s an excuse, no matter how flimsy, they''ll be used.¡±


    Dongfang Haojie sucked in a breath of cold air.


    That person had said the exact same thing as Immortal Void Rush!


    Immortal Void Rush sighed lightly. "If you see that cultivator who warned you before, tell him toe see me. We are in dire need of talents like him, especially in the current situation of Azure Cloud Empire, where manpower ispletely insufficient. Unfortunately, if Fang Tingyuan hadn''t been deceived back then, he should have been able to rece my position in the Azure Cloud Empire."


    Dongfang Haojie was slightly surprised. "Fang Tingyuan? The person from the Fang family?"


    Fang Chen froze.


    Immortal Void Rush nodded lightly. "Yes, Fang Tingyuan is one of us."


    "You... Wait, Immortal Void Rush, when you say ''us,'' do you mean...?" Dongfang Haojie cautiously asked.


    Fang Chen looked at Immortal Void Rush, simrly curious about the answer.


    "The Killing Spiritual Division," Immortal Void Rush said lightly. "Not many people know about the Killing Spiritual Division. It''s not a sect but more like a department of authority in the court. It was established by a powerful figure in the first-tier empire with the mission of eliminating all Spirit Blood Sect cultivators. The Killing Spiritual Division is where talents and experts from various sectse together. I am one of them, and so was Fang Tingyuan in the past. Now, you are also about to be one of us."


    Dongfang Haojie was dumbfounded. "Me?"


    "Why else do you think I''m telling you all this? You are the descendant of the Dragon Blood n. You have a unique bloodline. That''s an advantage. Otherwise, you wouldn''t be qualified to join the Killing Spiritual Division."


    "Now that you are involved with the Spirit Blood Sect, you don''t have much choice," Immortal Void Rush said lightly. "Once this matter is settled, I will admit you into the Killing Spiritual Division. In the future, you will be responsible for looking after matters in Grand Wei."


    Dongfang Haojie almost hesitated for a moment before nodding immediately. "I''m in, I''m in! As long as Senior Immortal Void Rush can protect the life of this junior, I''ll do anything. Also, that person mentioned that there''s a Nascent Soul Realm expert lurking in Grand Qian from the Blood Spirit Sect."


    "A Nascent Soul Realm expert?" Immortal Void Rush''s expression was slightly surprised, with a hint of seriousness in her eyes. "What is the identity of that person? You really don''t know who he is?"


    "I really don''t know him." Dongfang Haojie smiled bitterly. "If I did, would I have been robbed of ten drops of my blood by him?"


    "Could there be a friend from the Killing Spiritual Division here?" Immortal Void Rush pondered to herself, then waved her hand to signal Dongfang Haojie to leave.


    "The Killing Spiritual Division... talented experts from various sects..." Fang Chen pondered.


    It seemed that the power behind Immortal Void Rush was not weak, which was undoubtedly good news.


    However, If Fang Tingyuan was once a member of the Killing Spiritual Division, then four hundred years ago, when he was deceived, was it someone from Fang Tingyuan''s faction who acted, or was there infighting within the Killing Spiritual Division?


    Originally, based on his and Xia Ji''s inference, the person who acted was most likely a prominent figure from Fang Tingyuan''s faction. This led to no news from Fang Tingyuan''s faction after the incident, nor did they make any statements.


    But now, with the involvement of the Killing Spiritual Division, there''s another possibility. What if the faction behind Fang Tianyuan knew about the power of the Killing Spiritual Division, so they refrained from intervening in the matter?


    "Perhaps she might know something. That female demoness from before, it couldn''t be her, right?" Fang Chen looked at Master Immortal Void Rush with a pensive expression. If it were her, then Master Chanyuan would surely have some peculiar reaction upon seeing Master Immortal Void Rush.


    Should he personally meet with Master Immortal Void Rush?


    <i>Forget it, let''s see how things unfold.</i>


    Suppressing his thoughts, Fang Chen withdrew his consciousness and then swiftly employed the Shadow Buddha Technique to head toward the Imperial Pce. Walking within the shadows, he effortlessly entered the pce, faintly sensing the restrained yet formidable aura of the several Nascent Soul Realm experts.


    "Young Master, why don''t we return to Grand Wei first? We might fall victim to schemers again if we stay any longer," Nie Tianyuan whispered.


    Several Golden Core Realm cultivators from Grand Wei also joined in persuading Dongfang Haojie. Among them was Immortal Tianwu.


    "No, we''re not leaving. The trade conference hasn''t started yet, and I haven''t acquainted myself with Fairy Tianyin. Leaving now would be pointless, wouldn''t it? You don''t need to worry; it must be some petty individuals trying to sow discord between Grand Qian and Grand Wei, hence the poisoning. Now that I''m staying by Master Immortal Void Rush''s side, those petty individuals wouldn''t dare to act recklessly," Dongfang Haojie firmly refused.


    Nie Tianyuan wanted to persuade him further, but Dongfang Haojie said he was tired and dismissed them all.


    Dongfang Haojie then suddenly erected a spiritual barrier and whispered, "Hey, since you''re so concerned about the Spirit Blood Sect, you must know about me getting poisoned, right? You were one of the people present in the hall today, weren''t you?


    "If you''re here, thene out and talk to me. Master Immortal Void Rush wants to see you. Don''t worry, she has absolutely no connection with the Blood Spirit Sect. On the contrary, her background might surprise you!"


    Dongfang Haojie waited for a while, and when he saw that there wasn''t any response, he muttered, "It seems like you''re not here...."


    He was about to remove the spiritual barrier when he suddenly heard a whisper in his ear.


    "I won¡¯t meet Immortal Void Rush for now, but I want to tell you that Tong Hu and his son from the Jade River Pavilion are from the Spirit Blood Sect. Jue Wudi is also one of them. Fang Shang from the second branch of the Fang Family is too.


    "And the ancestor of the Southern Heavenly Sect from the me Empire alsoes from the Spirit Blood Sect. He''s currently in the Imperial Capital of Grand Qian. The Nascent Soul Realm expert lurking in Grand Qian is the Kunlun Battle General."

 Chapter 421: Innate Heart Pupil

    <h4>Chapter 421: Innate Heart Pupil</h4>


    Dongfang Haojie turned around sharply, but he didn''t see anything.


    A wry smile appeared on Dongfang Haojie''s face. "Brother, why do youe and go like a ghost? At leaste out and let me thank you in person."


    There was no sound around him.


    Dongfang Haojie waited for a moment, making sure the person had left, and then he looked strangely toward the next room. He and Immortal Void Rush were separated by only one wall, yet she hadn''t noticed anyone sneaking in.


    Dongfang Haojie felt overwhelmed. "What kind of supernatural power is this!"


    Fortunately, this person didn''t intend to harm him. If not, with such a supernatural ability, he would have been killed countless times. His father''s trump card would have had no chance to be used.


    Thinking of this, Dongfang Haojie went out again to find Immortal Void Rush and recounted what had just happened. After listening, Immortal Void Rush frowned slightly and murmured to herself. "He must have used a kind of concealment technique that even I couldn''t detect. This person is either at the Nascent Soul Realm or possesses a top-tier concealment technique."


    Dongfang Haojie gasped in surprise. "A top-tier concealment technique is that powerful?"


    "When I say top-tier concealment technique, I mean the kind of techniques that are mastered by the likes of current sect leaders," said Immortal Void Rush, ncing at him. "Those are stronger than you can imagine."


    After a pause, she continued, "Forget about what he told you about those people. I will send someone to secretly monitor them during this period. Don''t reveal your hand. I want to wait for the Spirit Blood Sect to make the first move."


    "I understand!" Dongfang Haojie nodded heavily, then asked, "Can I go talk to Fairy Tianyin?"


    "Tianyin has a proud temperament. If you want to talk to her, go ahead, but don''t me others if you end up disappointed," replied Immortal Void Rush before slowly closing her eyes.


    Back in his courtyard, Fang Chen once again projected his divine soul, but this time he didn''t head to the pce. Instead, he went to where Jue Wudi and the others were. However, after observing for a while, he didn''t see anyone monitoring them as mentioned by Immortal Void Rush.


    "Could it be that these trackers have a concealment technique like the Shadow Buddha, making it impossible for me to detect them?" Fang Chen pondered silently.


    Or perhaps Immortal Void Rush had been merelyforting Dongfang Haojie with the idea of sending someone to monitor them, but in reality, no one was dispatched to avoid revealing their hand?


    "Sister, who are you looking for?"


    "Young Lady, please don''t speak. Are you here to see Master Fang Chen? You don¡¯t seem like you¡¯ve been here before."


    With a thought, Fang Chen returned to his physical body and walked out of the quiet room.


    When he came outside, he saw Chang Fen looking alertly at a woman in in clothes as she shielded Jiang Tianai.


    Li Cang was standing on the side, looking somewhat puzzled.


    The woman in in clothes didn''t say anything. Her gaze lingered on Jiang Tianai for a moment before shifting to Fang Chen. "Are you the descendant of Fang Tianyuan?"


    Fang Chen nodded softly and sped his hands. "Yes, I am. May I know who you are?"


    "Descendant?" Chang Fen and Li Cang shed a hint of surprise in their eyes. Since Master Fang Chen addressed this person as a senior, it meant that her cultivation was at least in the Foundation Building Realm!


    The woman suddenly pointed at Jiang Tianai and changed the subject. "Is this little girl from the Jiang Family?"


    Fang Chen was surprised and asked, "Do you recognize her, senior?"


    The woman in in clothes gave him a strange feeling. She seemed like an ordinary woman, but no ordinary woman would hike her skirt up to her knees, revealing her wless white legs. Not to mention, she wasn''t even wearing any shoes.


    Her bare feet were touching the ground as if she were confident they wouldn''t be tainted with dust. Although such a thing could be bunched up to the spiritual energy cirction to remain clean, Fang Chen didn''t sense any spiritual energy from the woman. Yet, it was as if... the dust couldn''t even touch her.


    The woman in in clothes looked at Jiang Tianai and spoke calmly. "I thought the Jiang Family''s bloodline had long been severed. I didn''t expect to encounter a descendant with such a pure bloodline here. It''s just that your cultivation is a bit low. It seems that the curse of your Jiang family has notpletely dissipated. I ask you, are there still others in your family?"


    Jiang Tianai didn''t answer her. She looked at Fang Chen with a hint of pleading in her eyes.


    "Answer the senior''s question..." Fang Chen said calmly.


    Fang Jian and Fang Wanli hadn''t sensed the arrival of the woman in in clothes, indicating that her cultivation was higher than the Golden Core Realm.


    Jiang Tianai whispered, "I¡¯m the only one left in the bloodline. There is a loyal uncle who has been captured by the Jue Family...."


    "Jiang Zhong is the girl''s servant," Fang Chen added.


    The woman in in clothes nodded gently. "It''s only natural for the tiger to be bullied when it falls to the in. I know a senior who has a good rtionship with your family. If you''re willing, I can send a message to this senior to take you away."


    Jiang Tianai was slightly surprised and subconsciously said, "I want to stay with Young Master..."


    "Lass, if what this senior says is true, the senior might be able to rescue Jiang Zhong," Fang Chen mumbled.


    "Can you rescue Uncle Zhong?" Jiang Tianai''s face showed a hint of struggle, and then she whispered, "Sister, if I leave here, can Ie backter?"


    "Naturally, you can, but the journey is long, and without sufficient cultivation, it will be difficult for you to return to this ce," the woman in in clothes replied.


    Jiang Tianai nodded gently. "Please, sister, please send the message on my behalf."


    The woman in in clothes nodded back. "I''ve already sent the message. You''ll need to wait for some time."


    With that, she turned to Fang Chen, "Are you called Fang Chen?"


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "That¡¯s right, Senior."


    The woman in in clothes asked lightly, "What''s wrong with your eyes?"


    "I¡¯m blind."


    Fang Chen opened his eyes, revealing grayish-white irises.


    The woman in in clothes looked at Fang Chen''s eyes, shook her head softly, and then walked a few steps closer to take a better look.


    "No, you''re not blind."


    Chang Fen and Li Cang were puzzled.


    He isn''t blind?


    "Innate Heart Pupil." The woman in in clothes suddenly nodded. "I didn''te here in vain. For someone like you to exist among Fang Tianyuan''s descendants can be considered a stroke of luck."


    Fang Chen was surprised. "Innate Heart Pupil?"


    <i>I wasn''t born this way, </i>thought Fang Chen to himself.


    However, he didn''t say it. He wanted to see what she had to say.


    "Senior, what exactly does ''Heart Pupil'' mean?" Fang Chen asked.


    The woman in in clothes replied lightly, "The so-called Heart Pupil refers to your eyes being naturally washed by spiritual energy. Although you cannot see worldly objects, you are a good seed for practicing Eye Techniques."


    With that, the woman in in clothes took out a jade slip and handed it to Fang Chen, saying, "You are a cultivator, so you can see the contents of this jade slip. This contains a cultivation method for Eye Techniques. You can try practicing it. If you seed, it will greatly benefit you in the future."


    Chang Fen, Li Cang, and the others weren''t able to hear the conversation between Fang Chen and the woman at all. They were only able to see their two mouths move.


    Then, the woman handed Fang Chen a jade slip and turned to leave. She walked out of the courtyard, disappearing without a trace.


    Fang Chen scrunched up his brow as he touched the jade slip in his hand. "She just left like that?"


    <i>Eye Techniques? This should be a type of technique I haven''t heard about before. Did this woman, of unknown origin, give him a technique and then leave?</i>


    "She knew Fang Tianyuan.... Could she be the... the demoness from back then?"

 Chapter 422: Primordial Immortal Eye

    <h4>Chapter 422: Primordial Immortal Eye</h4>


    "You guys keep an eye on the entrance," Fang Chen instructed as he turned around and went back to his quiet room.


    Fang Chen rubbed the jade slip in his hand, contemting quietly.


    To read or not to read... that was the question.


    The woman''s origin was unknown, yet she came and directly handed him a technique....


    After a while, Fang Chen chuckled at his suspicion. "I''m overthinking it. If she wanted to harm me, why go through all this trouble?"


    With a thought and a surge, Fang Chen imbued the jade slip with spiritual power. In the next moment, a stream of information flowed out from the jade slip.


    [Primordial Immortal Eye]


    [The beginning and end of heaven and earth, endless cycles of reincarnation. Peering through the illusions of this world, observing the Three Pure Ones'' Great Dao across the universe, cleansing the soul....]


    It was a long article spanning thousands of words, mysterious and profound. Fang Chen should not have been able to understand it, but his soul began to stir, allowing him toprehend it. The spiritual power within his body also began to rush toward his eyes.


    If someone were to stand in front of Fang Chen and take a close look, they would see golden patterns appearing on his gray-white irises. These golden patterns were densely packed, like an ancient and mysterious script, or perhaps the intricate meridians within the human body.


    His eyes felt cool, and Fang Chen felt an unprecedentedfort. Gradually, he seemed to be able to see the shadows around him, something he hadn''t dared to imagine before.


    In the past, his so-called "sight" was merely perception. He was only able to do it because of his soul projecting outside his body. But now, he felt a familiar sensation he hadn''t experienced in six years; it seemed like he could see again!


    Fang Chen suddenly felt his eyes swell, and thefortable sensation disappeared quickly, reced by sharp pain.


    Blood oozed from his eyeballs, leaving a chilling sight. Fang Chen immediately stopped practicing and slowly closed his eyes. It took him a full hour to recover, and when he opened his eyes again, the blood was gone.


    "The Primordial Immortal Eye, I don''t know it''s true wonders yet, but it has allowed me to see again. However... practicing it seems quite difficult. I only practiced for a short while yet I am already feeling difort."


    He had a feeling that if he had continued practicing forcefully, his eyeballs would just burst on the spot. This was even though the woman in the in clothes had said he was a natural-born talent, a good seed for cultivating Eye Techniques. What if it were an ordinary cultivator practicing this?


    "I''m afraid not only would their eyeballs burst, but their heads might explode just from starting to practice," Fang Chen muttered to himself.


    With this in mind, Fang Chen decided to leave the quiet room and chat with Jiang Tianai. After all, someone woulde to take her away soon. He wasn''t afraid that the person the woman contacted had ill intentions; if they were like the Jue Family, they wouldn''t bother making their intentions known, they''d juste and take her away. Who in Grand Qian could resist them?


    Just as he was about to get up, Fang Chen suddenly stopped, his brow furrowing slightly as a look of astonishment crept into his eyes.


    "<i>Hmm?</i> Something''s not right...."


    In this short period, it seemed like his soul... had grown stronger!?


    This was the first time in six years that Fang Chen had experienced anything like this. Aside from that time when his soul experienced a boost after he had reached enlightenment by viewing the scriptures at the Profound Void Temple, his soul had remained stagnant for thest six years.


    "Eye Techniques... can affect soul cultivation?"


    Fang Chen felt some ripples in his heart. In the cultivation world, whether it was martial arts or techniques, there were strict hierarchical definitions. In a ce like Grand Qian, the techniques practiced by Golden Core Realm cultivators were already considered secrets, perhaps even disciples and close rtives wouldn''t necessarily be taught. Not to mention techniques beyond the Golden Core Realm. Techniques that could enhance the soul were at least methods used by Nascent Soul cultivators, right?


    "She sure is generous." Fang Chen sighed. He opened the door to his quiet room, and a cool breeze drifted in.


    The temperature felt off.


    "Li Cang, it''s already night?" Fang Chen asked.


    Not far away, Li Cang hurriedly bowed respectfully. "Young Master, indeed it is night."


    Fang Chen was surprised. "So soon?"


    In his memory, he had only practiced the Primordial Immortal Eye for a short while, but so much time had passed.


    <i>I must be careful when I practice this technique in the future. I reckon if one reaches a high enough level, they might practice for several years at once,</i> Fang Chen thought.


    Fang Chen smiled at Li Cang. "You don''t need to wait here. Go rest."


    He then turned around and went back to his room.


    Outside the city, in the Eighteen Districts, was the Profound Void Temple. Inside the temple hall, Master Chanyuan sat beneath the golden statue of Buddha, softly chanting Buddhist scriptures.


    Fang Chen arrived at the entrance of the temple hall and respectfully called out with folded hands. "Master Chanyuan."


    Master Chanyuan was a little surprised. He stopped chanting scriptures and stood up, joining his hands together, and uttered a Buddhist chant. "Amitabha, why did the benefactor visit the Profound Void Temple sote?"


    Fang Chen recounted the encounter with the woman in in clothes to Master Chanyuan.


    Master Chanyuan listened quietly, his expression nk. After a moment, he sighed deeply. "It''s her. I didn''t expect her to still be alive. I''m afraid she has long since ascended to the Nascent Soul Realm."


    "Master Chanyuan, what is the rtionship between her and Ancestor Tingyuan? Although you were young at the time of that incident, you also experienced it firsthand," Fang Chen inquired.


    "I don''t know." Master Chanyuan shook his head lightly. "It seems she was once close to him. Because of that incident, she caused a massacre in the Profound Void Temple. She seemed to havee specifically for you after hearing about you."


    Pausing for a moment, Master Chanyuan looked at Fang Chen. "Benefactor, do you know where she is now? I would like to see her."


    "She has left, and I''m not sure where she went. I can''t confirm if she is still in Grand Qian," Fang Chen replied, shaking his head slightly.


    "Did she say anything to you? Did she mention the Profound Void Temple?" Master Chanyuan asked hastily.


    A tinge of embarrassment crossed Fang Chen''s face. "At the time, I was shocked and forgot about it. I didn''t ask on your behalf."


    "Ah..." Master Chanyuan sighed softly. He returned to his cushion and resumed reciting the sutras. However, the sutras were no longer as serene as before, faintly tinged with emotional fluctuations.


    Seeing this, Fang Chen bowed again before turning and leaving.


    Time flew by, and two days had passed in the blink of an eye.


    The day of the trade conference rolled about and Grand Qian granted permission for both cultivators and ordinary people from the outer city to enter the inner city and participate in the trade conference at the hunting grounds!


    During this time, Fang Chen''s divine soul had left his body several times to check on Tong Hu, Jue Wudi, and others, but still had not found the surveint mentioned by Immortal Void Rush.


    Fang Chen, apanied by Jiang Tianai and others, headed towards the direction of the hunting grounds.


    Along the way, people were excited, and conversations revolved around the trade exchange fair.


    In these two days, there seemed to be no movement from the Spirit Blood Sect, and Tong Hu and the others showed no w, as if their previous ns had never existed. The more that was the case, the more serious Fang Chen felt.


    The Spirit Blood Sect gave him the feeling that they were holding back a massive scheme.


    "If they want to kill Dongfang Haojie, they will always have to face Immortal Void Rush. Perhaps because of this, they dare not act rashly." Suddenly, Fang Chen''s mind stirred, and he found himself holding the Starlight Transmission Talisman, which was emitting a faint warmth.


    "Lord, can you hear me?" The voice of Fairy Yu sounded in Fang Chen''s ears.

 Chapter 423: How Could They Be So Similar?

    <h4>Chapter 423: How Could They Be So Simr?</h4>


    "So that''s how it''s used."


    Fang Chen infused a bit of spiritual energy into the Starlight Transmission Talisman, then thought to himself, "<i>I hear you.</i>"


    "<i>My senior sister and I have already arrived at the hunting grounds. They say someone is going to challenge you today?</i>"


    "<i>Yes, it''s Jue Wudi from the Jue Family.</i>"


    "<i>Young Master, do you want me to have my senior sister intervene and break his legs first?</i>"


    "<i>No need, he''s not my match.</i>"


    "<i>I see, then there''s nothing to worry about. I''ll be waiting for you at the hunting grounds.</i>"


    "<i>Be sure to be careful today; the Spirit Blood Sect might strike.</i>"


    "<i>I understand, Young Master.</i>"


    Themunication between the two ended. Shortly after, Fang Chen arrived at the hunting grounds with Fang Ao and the others.


    The vast hunting grounds were divided into hundreds of areas where fifth-tier empire residents could buy items from fourth-tier empires.


    There were also more Qi Refining Realm and Foundation Building Realm cultivators from sixth-tier empires present.


    They dared not covet cultivation resources from fourth-tier empires and hoped to buy some good items from the fifth-tier empires present. For example, the Spiritual Measuring Bell, which was a consumable item that every sect must have.


    Among the hundreds of areas, one area was particrly lively, where three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators were currently stationed.


    There, most of the Golden Core Realm cultivators from the Azure Cloud Empire, such as Jiang Shun and others, had set up stalls and were selling some rare cultivation resources notmonly seen in fifth-tier empires. Fang Chen''s divine soul observed and saw Big Eyed Li, Li Daoye, and Master Mingjing among them.


    He also saw Lord Tiger and his distant nephew, Nong Guiquan. However, Lord Tiger didn''t seem to recognize Big-Eyed Li. Nong Guiquan didn''t seem to have any intention of meeting him too.


    Abbess Zhu Yue led Fang Qingyao and Abbess Qing He as they strolled about a certain region.


    Apanying Zhang Xiaoke and Yan Ruyue was a woman who was dressed like a peasant and holding a mother hen, apanied by Zhang Xiaoke and Yan Ruyue. The two were currently picking and choosing at a stall that sold spirit beast eggs.


    The patriarch of the Southern Heavenly Sect and Yu Yuefan were leisurely strolling around.


    Fang Chen''s eyes flickered. "They''re here too? They should have arrived in the past few days."


    He saw Daoist Ya, Immortal Fire Cloud, and the others.


    He also saw the former lord of the Qinghu Kingdom, whom he had met briefly in the past, as well as Tu Qingqiu and the princess of the Qinghu Kingdom.


    Fang Chen''s thoughts stirred slightly. "They know I''ve killed Foundation Building Realm cultivators. I wonder if this news has reached Jue Wudi''s ears."


    However, it didn''t matter. Whether Jue Wudi knew or not, his fate was already sealed.


    Fang Ao suddenly spoke up. "Fang Chen, the Jue Family is already acting up."


    Fang Chen withdrew his spiritual perception and heard moringing from a group of Jue Family members.


    "Fang Chen of the Fang Family, today is the day you duel with Jue Wudi!. Are you here? Don''t hide ande out!"


    At this moment, whether they knew Fang Chen or not, everyone''s gazes turned to the group of Jue Family cultivators.


    The peasant woman, who was bargaining with the stall owner, frowned slightly. "Fang Chen? That same name?"


    Yan Ruyue subconsciously said, "Is it really Fang Chen? Wasn''t I mistaken earlier?"


    She looked at Zhang Xiaoke. "Isn''t your lord in Grand Qian?"


    Zhang Xiaoke showed an innocent expression. "No, they''re calling for Fang Chen of the Fang Family. He¡¯s probably not rted to the lord...¡±


    He certainly couldn''t show that he already knew about this. Women''s hearts were like the depths of the sea, and his master was a woman, and his senior sister was also a woman. If he offended both of them at the same time, he wouldn''t have a decent end in the future.


    "Well, that''s true. The Fang Family is one of the three main pirs of Grand Qian, and it''s more than a hundred thousand miles away from Grand Xia." The peasant woman nodded with a smile. "Let''s not buy the spirit beast eggs for now. Let''s have a look. I heard that the one called Jue Widi is a natural talent, and at such a young age, he has already reached the Foundation Building Realm. You don''t usually get to see this level of genius in battle."


    With that said, she put down the spirit beast eggs in her hand and led the two toward the gathering crowd.


    At this moment, the higher-ranking Golden Core Realm cultivators were gathering near the three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators. This included the two Golden Core Realm cultivators from the Jue Family and the two from the Fang Family.


    When Immortal White Tiger heard this, he immediatelyughed. "What''s this? Is Jue Wudi going to spar with Fang Chen?"


    "The younger generation''s disputes are not something we should intervene in," said thete stage Golden Core Realm cultivator from the Jue Family with a smile as he sped his hands.


    "Let the three of us seniors enjoy the show," said Fang Tingjian with a faint smile.


    At this moment, the disciples of the Jue Family were still moring, while those of the Fang Family had already begun to respond. Before long, the two sides approached each other, separated by a hundred feet or so. Nearby, circles of cultivators surrounded them, but they also tacitly made way for a piece ofnd.


    Jue Wudi stood in the center of the crowd, looking calmly at Fang Chen.


    "Do you remember what you said that day?" Jue Wudi said lightly. His voice was calm, but under the surging spiritual energy, it spread throughout the entire hunting ground.


    Fang Chen smiled. "I remember it well."


    "That''s good." Jue Wudi nodded lightly, then turned to the Golden Core Realm cultivator from the Jue Family and bowed. "Please, Senior, set up a barrier to prevent any coteral damage that may disrupt the trade conference."


    "I''ll take care of it." Immortal White Tiger suddenlyughed loudly, waving his hand lightly. A golden light swept out from his sleeve and fell from the sky, forming a barrier around Fang Chen and Jue Wudi.


    Fang Tingjian and the Golden Core Realm cultivator from the Jue Family were slightly taken aback, their expressions somewhat strange.


    Immortal White Tiger chuckled strangely. "With my barrier in ce, you two won''t be able to break free even with your abilities. Have a good fight. After the winner is determined, I''ll let you out. If you can''t determine a winner, then don''t bothering out. <i>Haha!</i>"


    The crowd''s expressions froze slightly, realizing that this might''ve turned into a life-and-death battle! It might be that only one woulde out alive on this day!


    Their crowd''s eyes turned to Fang Chen, each carrying different emotions.


    In their eyes, Fang Chen was not a match for Jue Wudi, even if rumors suggested how mysterious his methods were. In the face of absolute strength, even the most mysterious methods were useless!


    Jue Wudi hade fully prepared, and the only way to defeat him was to face him head-on!


    Yu Yuefan stood in the crowd, his eyes scanning Fang Chen, but he couldn''t recognize him because Fang Chen had been wearing a silver mask at that time. "Ancestor, is it Brother Wudi? Who is he going to fight?"


    "A minor character." The patriarch of the Southern Heavenly Sect chuckled lightly, his gaze thoughtful as he looked toward the area where the three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators were.


    At the same time, the farmers and others who had managed to squeeze to the front were extremely surprised when they saw Fang Chen.


    The woman dressed as a peasant was extremely surprised. "It''s really him!"


    Yan Ruyue didn''t recognize Fang Chen because she had never seen his appearance before. However, she could sense that something was off from her master''s expression.


    Yan Ruyue''s face was wreathed in surprise. "Master, could it be...?"


    "Although he looks a bit younger than I remember him, I don''t think I''m mistaken," the peasant woman said. ncing at Zhang Xiaoke, she said, "Take another look, maybe it''s your lord."


    "Really?" Zhang Xiaoke looked puzzled. "Could they just look alike?"


    She frowned. "How could they be so simr?"


    On the other side, Immortal Fire Cloud and the former Sixth Princess of Grand Xia, though unable to squeeze to the very front, also saw Jue Wudi and Fang Chen.


    The sixth princess fell into contemtion. "How could it... be like this...?"


    Immortal Fire Cloud''s eyes were filled with astonishment.


    As it turns out, Young Master Fang actually had such an impressive background!

 Chapter 424: The Ancient Bronze Lamp. I Stand Unbeatable

    <h4>Chapter 424: The Ancient Bronze Lamp. I Stand Unbeatable</h4>


    The sixth princess looked at Immortal Fire Cloud, her eyes revealing a hint of longing, hoping that Immortal Fire Cloud would tell her she was mistaken. "Master, did you see that too?"


    "He seems much younger than before, but judging by his appearance, it should undoubtedly be the same person. They even have the same name and surname...."


    Immortal Fire Cloud looked at the Sixth Princess, her brows scrunched up. "What is the origin of this Divine General Fang from your Grand Xia? Why did he suddenly be a member of the Fang Family? What connection does your Grand Xia have with the Fang Family?"


    "It''s really him..."


    The sixth princess was instantly distracted, and she was left unable to answer Immortal Fire Cloud''s question. Not that she coulde up with an answer anyway.


    Yan Ruyue looked at Zhang Xiaoke, her expressionplex with a hint of realization. "Younger Junior Brother, that person is indeed your lord. It seems... the Fang Family is his background. No Yu Yuefan wasn''t a match for him in the Heavenly Southern Sect."


    The woman who was dressed as a peasant muttered to herself, "I should have realized much earlier that you ought to have such a background to be epted by a powerful figure like that...."


    If one didn''t have a bit of background, then it didn''t matter if they had exceptional talent. After all, being randomly noticed by the powerful figures held the same chances as finding a needle in a haystack.


    Suddenly, a realization hit Yan Ruyue, and she looked at Jue Wudi with pity in her eyes. "Since Yu Yuefan wasn''t his match, then this Jue Wudi is probably not his opponent either."


    She could almost imagine Jue Wudi''s shock as well as his defeated Dao heart after he was defeated.


    ¡°Mom, Aunt Qingqiu, I can''t forget this scent, it''s this guy who killed Uncle Tianfeng!¡± said the little princess of Qinghu Kingdom as she looked at Fang Chen in horror. Recalling something, she quickly tried to transmit her voice to Jue Wudi. However, to her dismay, she found that she couldn''t utter a word.


    Turning her head, she saw the Qinghu Empire Master looking at her expressionlessly.


    "<i>Don''t meddle in the affairs of the fifth-tier empire. Since you were so confident in Jue Wudi before, you should remain so today,</i>" the Qinghu Empire Master transmitted calmly.


    The little princess of Qinghu Kingdom was filled with worry. She had full confidence in Jue Wudi, but his opponent had once single-handedly killed the monstrous Heavenly Wind Demon King!


    The Heavenly Wind Demon King had been in the mid-stage of the Foundation Building Realm and had also been proficient in the Dao of Talismans, yet even he hadn''t been able to withstand a single sword from the other party. How could Jue Wudi stand a chance?


    At present, apart from those who were unaware of the truth having full confidence in Jue Wudi, those who knew Fang Chen or had some contact with him looked at Jue Wudi with pity.


    Everyone who knew his achievements thought that Fang Chen had already won this bet.


    Fang Lingxing finally waited for this day, her face filled with a happy smile. She scanned the surroundings and finally saw Xia Ji and Wu Ruochou mixed in the crowd.


    Fang Lingxing walked over, her eyes with a hint of condescension. "Xia Ji, you won''t have any backing in Grand Qian from this day on. Even Master Chanyuan won''t be able to protect you."


    "Fang Lingxing, who wins and who loses is not necessarily certain," Wu Ruochou said coldly, ncing at her. There was a hint of mockery that shed in Wu Ruochou''s eyes.


    "Senior Sister, don''t waste your breath on her. After this bet is over, let''s explore today''s trade conference properly." Xia Ji smiled. "I guess some people will have to hide in the corner and cry."


    Fang Lingxing''s eyes turned cold. "Who are you saying will cry?"


    When Fang Lingxing saw Xia Ji and Wu Ruochou roll their eyes at her together, she ignored them and turned away with a coldugh.


    However, she couldn''t help feeling a bit doubtful. Why were these two so confident and not worried about Fang Chen at all?


    Fang Lingxing snorted coldly in her heart. "Acting all mysterious!"


    In her view, these two were just putting on a strong front, not wanting to lose face in front of her.


    Jue Wudi turned around and bowed toward Immortal White Tiger. His words carried extreme self-confidence. "Thanks to Senior White Tiger for providing this barrier. I won''t keep Senior White Tiger waiting too long,"


    Comparing this to Fang Chen, who remained silent, everyone felt a clear distinction.


    "Don''t waste time talking. Hurry up and fight, don''t dy the trade conference," Immortal White Tigerzily said.


    Jue Wudi looked at Fang Chen, and a faint smile suddenly appeared on his lips. "Are you still nning to use illusion talismans against me today? Or are you nning to use your escape technique?"


    Escape technique?


    Dongfang Haojie originally didn''t care about this bet at all, as he was too absorbed in Fairy Tianyin''s eyes to notice. However, when he heard that, he looked toward the field.


    "What cultivation level does this Fang Family cultivator have?" He casually asked Nie Tianyuan beside him


    "He''s at the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm. There¡¯s a difference of one major realm between him and Jue Wudi.¡±


    <i>12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm? Then it shouldn''t be him,</i> Dongfang Haojie thought to himself, losing interest once again.


    He looked at Fairy Tianyin, who was beside him, and said with a yful smile, "Fairy Tianyin, would you like to apany me to visit Grand Wei after the trade conference ends? We have a lot of delicious food over there."


    Fairy Tianyin remained expressionless, not saying a word.


    Dongfang Haojie, undeterred, was about to continue speaking when he saw two familiar figures in the crowd. He subconsciously wanted to run over, but then remembered the matter with the Spirit Blood Sect and halted his steps, sighing helplessly.


    Fang Chen closed his eyes and said lightly, "What did your senior give you to deal with me?"


    "Hehe, it''s not really anything special, just something that renders your tricks useless." Jue Wudi chuckled, his palm slowly opening to reveal an ancient bronzemp.


    "Thirty-six Soul Imprints. A top-grade artifact among the mid-grade, yellow-rank treasures."


    "This is top-notch among even among treasures of the same level!"


    "Jue Wudi is at the Foundation Building Realm. He should just be barely able to activate the treasure. If it were a high-grade, yellow-rank treasure, he wouldn''t be able to activate it."


    "It seems that the Jue Family is very serious about this bet. I wonder what trump cards the Fang Family has given him..."


    People whispered among themselves.


    Many of the Fang Family members were curious as they discreetly looked toward the two elders.


    "<i>Uncle, what card did you give Fang Chen?</i>" Fang Wanli transmitted his voice.


    "<i>Nothing,</i>" Fang Tingjian replied after a brief silence.


    "..."


    Fang Wanli was momentarily left speechless, then he pounded his chest and stomped his foot. If he had known this earlier, he would have personally intervened. He thought Fang Tingjian would take care of it, but he didn''t expect that he''d do nothing....


    Fang Wanli suddenly looked at Fang Tingjian with a strange expression. "Uncle, you''re not nning to let Uncle Tingyuan¡¯s bloodline reach its end, are you?"


    "<i>That''s exactly it. If Fang Chen can''t even defeat Jue Wudi, he can stay in the Fang Family to cultivate for a long time without worrying about anyone causing him trouble again,</i>" Fang Tingjian transmitted.


    At first, Fang Wanli didn''t quite understand, but after thinking for a moment, he suddenly understood what Fang Tingjian meant, causing his expression to turnplicated.


    If Fang Chen''s talent was far inferior to Fang Tingyuan''s, those who once harmed Fang Tingyuan would naturally not bother with Fang Chen again. In other words, if Fang Chen were to lose today, it would be a good thing for him.


    Jue Wudi had already begun to activate the artifact in his hand, and in an instant, a green light spread around him.


    "Do you have any methods that can harm me right now?" Jue Wudi looked at Fang Chen, smiling lightly. "As of right now, I stand undefeated."


    "So it''s a defensive artifact!"


    The crowd was struck with realization.


    The next moment, they saw Fang Chen suddenly disappear from where he stood, only to reappear in front of the green light. They watched as he tore through the green light with his bare hands.


    A hint of doubt appeared on Fang Chen''s face. "Undefeated?"

 Chapter 425: Dragon Bone Celestial Wrath

    <h4>Chapter 425: Dragon Bone Celestial Wrath</h4>


    The moment the blue light was torn apart by Fang Chen, Jue Wudi spewed out a mouthful of blood mist, and the calmness in his eyes was reced by a hint of horror.


    Immortal Tianwu suddenly became extremely excited, and two strings of white vapor bellowed out from his nostrils. "This kid is a martial genius! His physical body has been honed to perfection!"


    Among the Jue Family cultivators, Jue Tiangang stared nkly at this scene. He was even more shocked than Jue Wudi.


    That ancient bronzemp was one of the top-tier treasures of the yellow rank in the Jue Family. He had desperately sought the ancient bronzemp for many years, but the patriarch had never bestowed it on him.


    The blue light emitted by this bronze ancientmp was a special spiritual power called the "Dragon Bone Celestial Wrath." It was rumored that after a true dragon died, its bones would release a kind of aura that made it difficulty for people to approach it.


    Themp core of this ancientmp was woven from the bones of a true dragon. Although it was only a rumor, Jue Tiangang had personally tested it, and even he could not break through its protection!


    Who would have thought that Fang Chen would tear it apart with his bare hands?


    "Is Young Master nning to directly confront the enemy using brute force?"


    Chang Fen and Li Cang exchanged nces, both feeling that this possibility was highly likely because, not long ago, Fang Chen had fought against Chang Fen. The two of them knew that Fang Chen had a strong background in martial arts.


    Jiang Tianai''s worried expression faded slightly, and her small fists clenched tightly as she silently cheered for Fang Chen. "It seems that the young master''s chances of winning are even better than we thought."


    Wu Ruochou was somewhat surprised, looking at Xia Ji. "Junior Brother, why isn''t Young Master Fang using his sword?"


    Xia Ji smiled and transmitted his voice, "<i>Senior Sister, he doesn''t even need to exert thirty percent of his strength to beat Jue Wudi, so why bother use a sword. Just watch closely; he has some technique that nobody here can predict. I don¡¯t know what he¡¯s going to do, and neither are those Nascent Soul Realm cultivators.</i>"


    He nced at the three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators, then looked at Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen was a good brother of his! If Fang Chen defeated Jue Wudi, it would be akin to him defeating Jue Wudi himself.


    Fang Lingxing was dumbfounded. "How is that possible! Brother Jue said that it would take even a Foundation Building Realm a while before they''re able to break through thismp...!"


    Fang Chen had already begun walking over to Jue Wudi.


    When Jue Wudi saw that, he roared and sent a sharp flying sword toward Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen casually grabbed the sword and crumpled it into a ball before tossing it aside. He then continued to walk toward Jue Wudi.


    Jue Wudi sprayed out a mouthful of blood mist, his eyes bloodshot as he shouted sternly, "Impossible! sh him!"


    Several golden-armored warriors appeared.


    Fang Chen raised his hand and threw several punches. The moment his fist met the golden-armored warriors, they shattered into golden elemental energy, dissolving into the void.


    When Grand Qian''s geniuses witnessed this scene, they were shocked speechless. Their faces even turned pale.


    Even someone as strong as Jue Wudi couldn¡¯t do a thing to Fang Chen!


    "This monster! Why is his physical body so terrifying! What kind of technique is he cultivating?" someone eximed.


    The person who eximed was none other than the second prince, Qian Feng. He and the princes and princesses beside him stared nkly at Fang Chen, as if their minds had crumpled.


    Beside Jiang Shun, Sui Nianhua''s expression went from shock to self-mockery. "Undefeatable....¡±


    There was a time when she thought she too was undefeatable facing Fang Chen. And what was the result of that? She still fell beneath his unimaginable physical prowess. On this day, she truly understood how terrifying Fang Chen''s physical body was.


    When facing someone in the Foundation Building Realm, he actually managed to forcefully tear through their defenses.


    Jiang Shun stared fixedly at Fang Chen, her eyes shing. "A descendant of Fang Tingyuan...."


    It wasn''t just the Qi Refining Realm cultivators who were shocked or the Foundation Building Realm cultivators who were horrified; even the Golden Core Realm cultivators present were drawn in by this battle.


    In their eyes, the petty squabbles among the younger generations were not worth bothering about. But now, Fang Chen''s abilities made them furrow their brows in seriousness.


    Immortal White Tiger looked toward Supreme Expert Dragon Wood. "How interesting, Supreme Expert Dragon Wood. This kid''s physical body is quite special, right? It¡¯s somewhat like the Unbreaking Saint Body of the Great Arhat in your Chenxiang Temple...."


    Supreme Expert Dragon Wood looked at Fang Chen and spoke softly. "Amitabha, it''s not the Unbreakable Saint Body of my temple, but this benefactor indeed has refined his physical body to an extremely pure state."


    The descendants of the Jue Family had all been struck speechless.


    Thete-stage Golden Core Realm expert of the Jue Family and Jue Feichen both appeared somewhat dazed at first, then their brows furrowed one after another, their eyes bing more serious.


    Jue Wudi suddenly roared, then revealed a maniacial smile. "This is impossible! Is this another Illusion Talisman? Yes! I must have fallen under an Illusion Talisman again!"


    He didn''t believe that any of the things happening in front of him was real. Now there was only one exnation. He was under the effect of an Illusion Talisman!


    The crowd turned perplexed too. Could it really be an Illusion Talisman? Were they seeing illusions?


    "Master, what is an Illusion Talisman?" asked the sixth princess reflexively.


    Immortal Fire Cloud''s expression turned serious. "It''s a type of talisman that can trap even Foundation Building Realm cultivators in illusions. It''s extremely terrifying and is a rare treasure."


    "No wonder! So you mean everything we''re seeing is fake?" the sixth princess quickly responded.


    "It''s indeed possible."


    As Immortal Fire Cloud spoke, everyone was attracted by banging sounds. They saw Fang Chen had already arrived in front of Jue Wudi,nding punch after punch on him. Jue Wudi was like a sandbag, being hit and thrown around, unable to stop rolling.


    In just a dozen punches, Jue Wudi''s tendons and bones were all shattered. He becamepletely unrecognizable.


    At that moment, many Grand Qian female cultivator''s eyes turned red-rimmed. Some even couldn''t help but cry out.


    The scene was just too tragic!


    Fang Lingxing clenched her fists, refusing to believe that everything before her was real. "It''s the Illusion Talisman, it must be the Illusion Talisman!"


    Among the crowd, Fang Shang and Tong Baizhou looked at each other and saw the horror in each other''s eyes.


    When the patriarch of the Southern Heavenly Sect saw his junior brother fall into such a state, he became very solemn.


    Next to him was Yu Yuefan, and his eyes disyed horror.


    Were all cultivators from the Grand Qian like this?!


    They were in the Qi Refining Realm, but they were beating up cultivators in the Foundation Building Realm! That Foundation Building Realm cultivator couldn''t fight back one bit!


    This actually reminded him of what he experienced not too long ago.


    Suddenly, thete-stage Golden Core Realm expert of the Jue Family suddenly bowed to Immortal White Tiger. "Immortal White Tiger, please remove the barrier. Jue Wudi concedes defeat."


    His voice echoed throughout the venue, shocking the onlookers who had initially believed they too were under the Illusion Talisman.


    "This isn''t an illusion?!"


    Jue Wudi suddenly roared, his eyes bloodshot as he looked at Jue Feichen. "Impossible, Patriarch, I''ve only fallen under the Illusion Talisman, I haven''t been defeated yet. With the Dragon Bone Celestial Wrath protecting me, he can''t even get close to me. This is all just an illusion!"


    "No, even you, Patriarch, are just an illusion right now! Fang Chen must be deliberately trying to confuse me, to make me lose my fighting spirit!"


    Everyone was stunned.


    Jue Wudi still believed to this moment that he was really under an illusion... he still believed that the Dragon Bone Celestial Wrath aura was protecting him....


    "Nonsense!" Jue Feichen suddenly shouted sternly. "You haven''t fallen under the Illusion Talisman. You¡¯re really defeated this time! Wake up!¡±


    <i>Bang!</i>


    Jue Wudi fell heavily to the ground, looking up at Jue Feichen. "It''s an illusion, you can''t deceive me!"


    Jue Feichen''s face turned green with anger.


    On this day, the Jue Family didn¡¯t just lose, they lost in a particrly embarrassing way....

 Chapter 426: Is There a Descendant of the Jiang Family Here?

    <h4>Chapter 426: Is There a Descendant of the Jiang Family Here?</h4>


    When Mirror of the Universe saw that Fang Chen was about to break the ancient bronzemp, it ryed its voice into Fang Chen''s ears. "<i>Brother, don''t break thatmp, keep it. There''s something good on it.</i>"


    Upon hearing this, Fang Chen''s hand paused mid-motion, and he changed direction, kicking Jue Wudi in the belly.


    Jue Wudi was hurtled into the air before crashing heavily into the golden barrier, after which he fell heavily to the ground.


    Fang Chen picked up the ancient bronzemp.


    "Fang Chen, Jue Wudi has already conceded. If you like this Dragon Bone Heavenly Lamp, I''ll give it to you. Don''t take further action against Jue Wudi!" Jue Feichen yelled.


    Fang Chen put away the ancient bronzemp and continued walking toward Jue Wudi.


    Fang Chen picked up Jue Wudi as if he was picking up trash. Grabbing him by the neck, he lifted him up into the air.


    Jue Feichen''s eyes shed with a hint of fierceness as he shouted, "What else do you want?!"


    Fang Chen smiled. "Bring Jiang Zhong here and I''ll spare your life."


    Jiang Zhong? Who''s that?!


    Jiang Tianai broke out in tears. <i>It turns out Young Master is nning to exchange Jue Wudi''s life for Uncle Zhong! </i>


    Jue Feichen spoke with a hint of anger. "Youngster, don''t go too far and meddle in my family''s affairs without permission. I won''t argue with you anymore out of respect for Fang Tingjian''s reputation. Are you still going to be so overbearing?"


    "Senior, as a Golden Core Realm cultivator, you have a long life ahead. There''s plenty of time for negotiations," said Fang Chen. "However, the younger generation is different. We are just Qi Refining Realm cultivators, and we have many enemies. We might drop dead one day without having the chance to speak about these matters."


    Fang Chen smiled. "Bring Jiang Zhong here, and I''ll return Jue Wudi to you. Although he''s a bit of a useless fool, he''s still considered a top-notch talent in your family. If you give up on him, it might take decades or even centuries before another Jue Wudi appears."


    The crowd''s expressions were strange. Although they didn''t know who Jiang Zhong was, when Fang Chen said Jue Wudi was a top-notch talent, it seemed to make sense but also carried an endless sense of mockery.


    "You!"


    Jue Feichen, who was in thete stage of the Golden Core Realm, couldn''t contain his anger. After a few moments of silence, he looked at Jue Fei''an, who naturally understood the meaning and turned to leave.


    Jue Wudi, held by the neck, barely opened his swollen eyes, a sneer on his face. "It''s all an illusion, isn''t it, Fang Chen? Is that all you''ve got? You still can''t break my Dragon Bone Heavenly Lamp, right?"


    A voice suddenly sounded in Jue Wudi''s ear.


    "<i>Third Junior Brother, this is not an illusion</i>," it said. "<i>You really lost. Don''t provoke this person; live on and deal with himter.</i>"


    Jue Wudi''s triumphant smile froze. "What?"


    He subconsciously looked at the Patriarch of the Southern Heavenly Sect.


    Gradually, his expression became extremely horrified.


    It wasn¡¯t an illusion! Even if the other party can use Illusion Talismans, there''s no way they would know about his second senior brother''s existence!


    This was not an illusion! Fang Chen had really torn apart the Dragon Bone Celestial Wrath aura! He really lost!


    "How can this be... how can this be...?" Jue Wudi murmured to himself in disbelief.


    How did he lose so miserably?! It was such an effortless defeat! He was in the Foundation Building Realm, while the other was just a Qi Refining Realm cultivator!


    As the crowd witnessed Jue Wudi''s expression shift, they vaguely understood that he had woken up to reality, realizing that none of this was an illusion.


    <i>Interesting,</i> Fang Chen thought to himself.


    He could sense Jue Wudi''s shifting emotions, indicating that someone hadmunicated with him through sound transmission. It was no surprise that this person came from the Spirit Blood Sect. It was most likely the patriarch of the Southern Heavenly Sect.


    "Fang Chen really won! He won so easily too!"


    "What path is he following? Why is his physical body so terrifying, to the point where he''s able to crush flying swords with his bare hands?"


    The expressions of the Fang Family disciples were a mix of astonishment, joy, confusion, perplexity, and suspicion. They had expected today''s battle to be extremely difficult for Fang Chen even if he had a chance of winning. But unexpectedly, after waiting for so long, the bet ended in the blink of an eye and the victor was determined.


    In the crowd, Fairy Yu''s eyes were filled with wondrous light. "The lord is so amazing...."


    The female sword cultivator beside her looked at Fang Chen thoughtfully and whispered, "Junior Sister, don''t you feel that this person is very familiar? Also, I sensed a hint of sword intent from him. It''s likely that he is a sword cultivator, and it¡¯s not one of a low rank."


    "Sister, is he also a sword cultivator like us? Is that why you think he¡¯s familiar?¡± Fairy Yu said calmly.


    She knew her senior sister was proud by nature. Although they had met Fang Chen before, it was highly probable that her senior sister hadn''t paid much attention to him and couldn''t remember his appearance at all.


    It was fortunate for all of them if that was the case.


    "That''s possible." The female sword cultivator frowned to herself. "A sword cultivator.... For us to encounter another sword cultivator here is too much of a coincidence. Could the Sword Embryo be on him?"


    Fairy Yu''s heart skipped a beat. She had a feeling that the female sword cultivator might be right. But he was her lord, and she couldn''t let him be in a dangerous situation!


    "<i>Sister, the world doesn¡¯t revolve around our Void Immortal Sword Sect; there are many experts who follow the path of sword cultivation even in first-tier empires, let alone second or third-tier empires,</i>" Fairy Yumunicated through sound transmission. "<i>As for the Sword Embryo, someone capable of stealing it wouldn''t be so weak! Moreover, he¡¯s just a Qi Refining Realm cultivator! If you focus too much on this, you might lose sight of the real clues.</i>"


    "<i>You''re right. Your mind is indeed sharper than mine in some aspects. I didn''t take you in for nothing,</i>" said the female sword cultivator, then continued, "I''ll go and talk to this sword cultivator to see if there are any clues on him after he''s done with this bet. Perhaps he''s the one who left behind this diversion."


    "I''ll do it. Senior Sister, you''re not ustomed to these things," Fairy Yu said.


    The female sword cultivator smiled and nodded.


    They didn''t wait long before Jue Feichen returned again. He was apanied by a middle-aged man draped in arge blue robe this time.


    The middle-aged man looked weary, his robe fluttering in the wind.


    "Uncle Zhong!" Jiang Tianai suddenly broke free from Chang Fen''s grasp and rushed toward Jiang Zhong.


    "Don''te over, Young Lady!" Jiang Zhong suddenly shouted in fear.


    Unfortunately, it was already toote. Taking advantage of the moment, Jue Feichen reached out and grabbed Jiang Tianai and brought her over to him using his spiritual energy.


    Jue Feichen bowed to the three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators. "Elders, these two are enemies of the Jue Family. This junior from the Fang Family insists on meddling in our internal affairs. Please, elders, uphold justice."


    Immortal White Tiger chuckled. "Since it''s your internal affair, handle it yourselves."


    Supreme Expert Dragon Wood and Immortal Void Rush remained silent.


    A hint of joy shed in Jue Feichen''s eyes as he looked at Fang Chen and sneered. "If you want to kill Jue Wudi, I''ll kill this girl and this old servant. Two lives for one, a fair trade!"


    Fang Chen furrowed his brows. He hadn''t expected Jue Feichen to resort to such extremes. Now that Jiang Tianai and Jiang Zhong were in his hands, he had lost his leverage.


    "<i>This is getting tricky. If I use Little Sword, trouble wille knocking from the Void Immortal Sword Sect, and the Spirit Blood Sect will also pay attention to me... but if I don''t use Little Sword, I won''t be able to instantly kill Jue Feichen....</i>"


    As Fang Chen was contemting what to do, a celestial melody filled the air, surprising everyone as they looked up. A celestial boat appeared from the void, with many women dressed in cool attire dancing gracefully.


    A majestic voice resounded in everyone''s ears, causing even the three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators to be distracted.


    "Is there anyone from the Jiang Family here?"

 Chapter 427: Slave Turning Against Their Masters? Just Kill Them All!

    Chapter 427: ve Turning Against Their Masters? Just Kill Them All!


    As the immortal boat approached, everyone finally realized how massive it was. It was so huge it covered half of the capital. The immortal maidens dancing on it were giants, each standing twenty or thirty feet tall.


    People''s eyes widened in horror. They all felt as if a huge boulder was pressing down on their hearts, making it hard to breathe in the face of such a spectacle.


    Upon hearing the divine voice, both thete-stage Golden Core Realm expert from the Jue Family and Jue Feichen showed sudden fear, trembling involuntarily with faces as pale as 7-day-old corpses.


    The divine voice continued to echo in everyone''s ears.


    "Is the descendant of the Jiang family here...?"


    The three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators were the first to react, bowing respectfully toward the immortal boat. "Junior pays respects to the seniors!"


    "Is this the friend of the Jiang Family that the woman in in clothes mentioned?" Fang Chen muttered to himself.


    Meanwhile, Fang Chen remained calm. He didn''t dare to let his divine soul wander, fearing that these powerful beings might detect his soul, simr to what the senior who had given him the Greenwood Token had been able to do. Not all of these strong individuals had the same temperament as Senior Yun He and that other elder. Among them might be formidable figures like the Supreme Immortal Pudu.


    A hint of surprise shed in the eyes of the female sword cultivator next to Fairy Yu. "Isn''t this the Immortal Giant Sect?! Why did a powerful figure from the Immortal Giant Secte here?"Fairy Yu hurriedly asked via voice transmission, "<em>Senior Sister, what is the Immortal Giant Sect?</em>"


    It was rare for her senior sister to show such astonishment. After all, only outsiders who knew they were disciples of the Void Immortal Sword Sect would see them disy such expressions.


    "It''s an ancient sect which has been in seclusion for many years. It''s unexpected to see them here today. Look at the cultivators from the Immortal Giant Sect. The more they cultivate, therger their stature bes, and therger their stature, the stronger their abilities! These maidservants are all twenty to thirty feet tall, like small mountains. Each of them is likely in the Middle Three Realms of cultivation¡­."


    Fairy Yu was slightly dazed. "Middle Three Realms¡­."


    The Qi Refinement, Foundation Building, Golden Core, and Nascent Soul stages were only the Early Four Realms. Reaching the Middle Three Realms meant bing top-tier experts in the world, something notmonly seen even in the Void Immortal Sword Sect. Yet these maidservants before them were likely at that level. How terrifying were the abilities of the owner of this immortal boat?


    The divine voice rang out again, heavy as a divine mountain pressing down on them.


    "I¡¯m going to ask one more time. Is the descendant of the Jiang Family here?"


    The three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators felt immense pressure, as if the divine voice were directly bearing down on them. Immortal White Tiger replied with difficulty, "Reporting to the seniors, it seems that there are no descendants of the Jiang Family here¡­."


    "Lass, your ancestors'' friend hase to take you. Quickly follow this senior and leave," Fang Chen yelled suddenly.


    Everyone was stunned, staring nkly at Jiang Tianai.


    The members of the Fang Family looked at each other in disbelief.


    "Could it be true? Does she have such a significant background?"


    Li Cang and Chang Fen were shocked. They had been looking after this girl for some time, but they had never imagined her background to be this terrifying!


    "Has the Jue Family gone mad? Would they dare to confront someone with such a background?"


    "I think the Jue Family is done for this time!"


    People whispered to each other, some subconsciously expressing their fear, while others intentionally or unintentionally pointed fingers at the Jue Family. They believed that the senior must be able to hear them.


    ¡°Hmm, indeed, she is a descendant of the Jiang family.¡±


    The voice of the immortal boat''s owner rang out again. Although the crowd couldn''t see this person, they could feel his gazending on Jiang Tianai.


    "This girl¡­."


    The three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators exchanged nces, all seeing the shock in each other''s eyes.


    Fang Wanli looked strange, ncing at Fang Chen, then at Jiang Tianai. He couldn''t help but transmit his voice to Fang Tianjian, "<em>Uncle...</em>"


    "Shut up."


    Fang Tianjian red at him, then remained silent, waiting quietly for the situation to unfold.


    The owner of the immortal boat spoke again. "Youngdy, I have an old rtionship with your ancestors. I once promised them to take care of the descendants of the Jiang Family. Come with me."


    Jiang Tianai''s expression changed slightly, and she suddenly rushed toward Fang Chen''s direction.


    Immortal White Tiger''s mind stirred, and he immediately withdrew his barrier.


    Jiang Tianai threw herself into Fang Chen''s arms. "Young Master, when I''ve achieved sess in my cultivation, I wille to visit you!"


    Fang Chen held Jue Wudi in one hand and gently patted her head with the other. A soft smile eventually appeared on his face. "Go ahead."


    Jiang Tianai turned around and left, leading Jiang Zhong toward the immortal boat.


    At that moment, where would Jue Feichen dare to stop her? He lowered his head and remained silent.


    A faint light rose from under Jiang Tianai and Jiang Zhong''s feet, carrying them toward the immortal boat.


    Jiang Zhong looked somewhat excited. "Senior, this old servant and the young Lady came to Grand Qian for the sake of joining the Jue Family, who once served as ves in my family. We never expected them to be treacherous and want to harm the Young Lady! Please, senior, uphold justice on our behalf!"


    ¡°What! The Jue Family were servants?¡±


    "No way¡­!"


    "This is highly possible! The backgrounds of these two are obviously extraordinary!"


    "Is the Jue Family repaying kindness with enmity?"


    Jiang Zhong''s voice caused amotion among the cultivators present.


    The descendants of the Jue Family looked bewildered as if they didn''t know what was happening.


    The expressions of the Jue Family''ste-stage Golden Core Realm cultivator and Jue Feichen turned extremely ugly, their eyes filled with fear.


    The owner of the immortal boat said indifferently, "A ve turning against their masters? We¡¯ll just kill them then."


    One of the graceful dancing maidens suddenly stopped and looked down at the two Golden Core Realm cultivators from the Jue Family, who immediatelly knelt down with a thud, shouting, "Senior, there''s a grand karmic debt on the Jiang family. Anyone who gets close to them is bound to be devoured by karma. We had no choice but to do so. Senior, you can¡¯t me us for this!"


    The voice of the immortal boat''s owner rang out again. "The karma of the Jiang Family has been worn down over these many years. Even if there''s a bit left, with my cultivation level, I can bear whatever consequences severing the thread brings."


    Thete-stage Golden Core Realm cultivator from the Jue Family suddenly looked dazed and lost.


    The Jiang family... was it no longer the same as before?


    A ray of light shed, and the head of thete-stage Golden Core Realm cultivator from the Jue Family fell to the ground with a thud.


    Without waiting for the others to react, another ray of light shed, and Jue Feichen''s head also fell to the ground.


    "Only these two knew the truth, the rest are innocent," said the owner of the immortal boat, addressing Jiang Zhong.


    Jiang Zhong looked at the lifeless bodies of the two, feeling a surge of bitterness in his heart. He turned and bowed respectfully in the direction where Fang Chen was, his voice hoarse, "Young Master Fang, till we meet again!"


    Fang Chen remained silent, just nodding lightly.


    In his perception, the two had already boarded the immortal boat, escorted by two giant-like maidens, and taken to its depths.


    The next moment, the immortal boat disappeared into the void, as if it had never been there, leaving only the two Golden Core Realm corpses on the ground to tell the others that a mighty being had been here moments ago.


    Several breaths passed without any sound at the scene, making it incredibly quiet.


    The Jue Family disciples looked bewildered with a hint of panic.


    Instinctively, the Jue Family Foundation Building Realm cultivators rushed to the two corpses. When they discovered that the vitality of the two had beenpletely drained, their expressions turned incredibly pale.


    With the Golden Core Realm cultivators of the Jue Family gone, the Jue Family... would fall from grace!

 Chapter 428: Just Do it

    Chapter 428: Just Do it


    "So, evente-stage Golden Core Realm cultivators are nothing more than ants in the eyes of true powerhouses, easily kible..."


    Many murmured to themselves.


    The scene before them was too shocking; they had never witnessed the fall of a Foundation Building Realm, let alone an Elder in the Golden Core realm.


    In their understanding, Golden Core Realm cultivators had long lifespans. Most of the time, when Golden Core Realm cultivators died, it was because their life essence had run out, not because they were killed.


    Who would have thought that one day they''d witness Golden Core Realm cultivators being ughtered so effortlessly.


    "No, this can''t be possible..." Jue Wudi muttered to himself. How could the two Golden Core Realm cultivators from the Jue Family die like this?


    Suddenly, Jue Wudi felt extremely lucky. "It''s... fortunate. As long as I''m here, the Jue Family won''t decline."


    His Master had an even grander background, possibly not weaker than the owner of the immortal boat just now, and his eldest senior brother was a powerhouse in the Nascent Soul Realm!


    Suddenly, a voice rang in Jue Wudi''s ears. "Your ancestors have departed, so you should better join them too, Jue Wudi of the Spirit Blood Sect." Jue Wudi abruptly turned his head around, staring at Fang Chen in shock and disbelief.


    How did Fang Chen know?!


    Before he could ask, or even transmit a message to Tong Baizhou and the others, the sword intent within Fang Chen surged.


    White light enveloped Jue Wudi''s body, followed by pirs of light breaking out from his body. His flesh became riddled with holes, and in just a moment, he disintegrated into dust, disappearing into the air.


    Everyone finally snapped out of their shock, their gazes falling on Fang Chen.


    "Jue... Jue Wudi is dead!?"


    They watched with their own eyes as Jue Wudi''s physical body turned into dust¡­ it felt surreal. This was the acknowledged top genius of the Grand Qian, Jue Wudi from the Jue Family, and he died just like that?


    The princess of the Qinghu Kingdom couldn''t hold back her tears, wanting to rush over but was restrained by the Qinghu Empire¡¯s Master, unable to move. "Brother Jue!"


    "Why did you have to kill him?" Fang Lingxing suddenly roared. She was about to charge toward Fang Chen but was firmly held back by Fang Mosheng.


    "Don''t act rashly. Jue Wudi is already dead. Don''t provoke Fang Chen anymore!" Fang Mosheng restrained Fang Lingxing with spiritual energy while casting a heavy gaze towards Fang Chen.


    In his heart, he feared the young girl. Now that she had an obvious background and was taken away by a powerful figure, Fang Chen''s rtionship with her also implicated him with that powerful figure. In this situation, they couldn''t afford to be enemies anymore!


    The young cultivators of the Grand Qian Imperial Capital were like statues, absent-minded as they stared nkly at Fang Chen. The unanimously acknowledged good elder brother, Jue Wudi, died in this person''s hands?


    Thinking about the Jue Family''s current situation, someone suddenly shouted, "Good riddance! The Jue Family is a bunch of evil servants who bullied their master! They deserve to die!"


    Simr voices followed suit, and Jue Tiangang and other Foundation Building Realm cultivators looked grim, their eyes asionally revealing a trace of fear. Without the Golden Core Realm ancestors and their reputation, the Jue Family members felt like rats crossing the street, sensing countless malicious gazes sizing them up.


    Perhaps soon, they would be swallowed up, harmed, and stripped of everything that belonged to the Jue Family by some of the Golden Core Realm cultivators in Grand Qian!


    "Elder Fang, we werepletely unaware of what our ancestors did. The senior also said that ignorance is not a crime!" Jue Tiangang gritted his teeth and bowed to Fang Tingjian.


    The other Foundation Building Realm cultivators hesitated for a moment before also bowing!


    They knew that bowing to the royal family was useless, and the three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators would also avoid getting involved because of the rtionship with the owner of the immortal ship. Now, the only ones who could save the Jue Family were the Fang Family, whom the Jue Family had considered rivals and thorns in their sides.


    They had heard from Jue Feichen, their ancestor, more than once that among the Golden Core Realm cultivators in Grand Qian who could still be considered gentlemen, there was probably only Fang Tingjian.


    "Indeed, ignorance is not a crime. Your two Golden Core cultivators have been executed, and the rest is none of your concern. You can continue as usual, but there are some things you can''t hold onto anymore. You can give them up, and no one will take your lives," Fang Tingjian said while scanning the other five major families'' Golden Core Realm cultivators in the inner city and some sect cultivators in the outer city.


    When these people met Fang Tingjian''s gaze, they either avoided him or nodded slightly, indicating that they understood Fang Tingjian''s meaning.


    Jue Tiangang and the others immediately breathed a sigh of relief. Although the Jue Family would suffer setbacks and might be a second-rate Family, at least their lives were spared.


    A member of the Jue Family suddenly spoke up. "Grand-uncle, but Fang Chen killed Jue Wudi¡­."


    <em>Bang!</em>


    Jue Tiangang pped him, shattering his cheekbone and causing him to slump to the floor as he continuously spit blood. There was horror written all over his face.


    Jue Tiangang''s face turned dark. "Even if Jue Wudi is dead, so what? Do you really think he''s as perfect as you all think? He''s hiding something sinister and today''s match is also because of him."


    The Jue Family disciples were shocked and dared not speak again.


    Then Jue Tiangang bowed to the seniors present, took the others, and left without the mood to participate in the trade conference any longer.


    Throughout, he didn''t even nce at Fang Chen''s direction, as if he really didn''t care about Jue Wudi''s death at all.


    "<em>Cough, cough.</em>"


    Immortal White Tiger cleared his throat twice and said in a rxed manner, "Alright, let''s begin the trade conference."


    His words marked the official end of this wager match.


    As everyone reflected on what had just happened and adjusted their moods, they began the trade fair.


    In the end, one''s own opportunities were still more important.


    Yu Yuefan saw Fang Chen walking towards the Fang family, and he looked nkly at the Southern Heavenly Sect Sect''s ancestor, seeing his own ancestor''s face be so unsightly for the first time.


    "Ancestor..."


    "Go buy your stuff."


    The Southern Heavenly Sect Sect''s ancestor suddenly regained hisposure, as if nothing had happened, and started strolling around the trade fair with Yu Yuefan.


    "Dad, Jue Wudi died like that."


    Tong Baizhou revealed a strange expression. "His senior brother¡­ Wouldn''t he me us for this?"


    "What''s so scary? The Kunlong Battle General isn''t to be trifled with, there is no problem."


    Tong Hu remained calm. "Don''t reveal any clues during this time; we need to adjust our mission."


    "Yes..."


    ***


    When Fang Lingxing saw Fang Chen chatting andughing with Fang Jue and the rest, she stared at him unblinkingly with hatred in her eyes, as if he had killed her parents. "Fang Chen, Big Brother Jue had already been defeated. Why did you still see the need to take his life?"


    Before Fang Chen could speak, Fang Yun smiled and said, "Fang Lingxing, it''s just the death of Jue Wudi. Why do you have to make such a fuss? It''s not like he was your Daopanion. Your fates weren''t even intertwined yet."


    Fang Jue frowned. "Fang Lingxing, since it was a wager match, there will naturally be casualties. Can''t you see that?"


    Fang Lingxing stared at Fang Chen, ignoring everyone else. She repeated. "Why? Why¡­ why?!


    Everyone''s faces showed a hint of helplessness.


    Fang Chen thought for a moment and shook his head lightly. "No reason. I want to do it, so I did."


    With that said, Fang Chen walked toward the liveliest area.


    There were cultivators from the Azure Cloud Empire selling items there. He intended to spend all fifty thousand low-grade spirit stones in his possession to prepare for any potential attacks from the Spirit Blood Sect that coulde at any moment.

 Chapter 429: Expenditure is Too High

    Chapter 429: Expenditure is Too High


    Fang Chen noticed a particr feature of the trade conference. Cultivators from fifth-tier empires were mostly searching in the fourth-tier empire area. Simrly, cultivators from sixth-tier empires were mainly searching in the fifth-tier empire area, and they rarely came to the fourth-tier empire''s region.


    After walking with Fang Jue and the others for a while, Fang Chen parted ways with them as they also had many things to purchase.


    "Little Zhou, you mentioned earlier that the Dragon Bone Heavenly Lantern is useful. Is themp core really made of dragon bone?" Fang Chen asked in his mind.


    "Absolutely true. Don''t underestimate thismp just because it''s only a mid-grade, yellow-rank treasure. If you change themp oil, it can unleash power that even Nascent Soul Realm cultivators would find difficult to approach," Little Mirror exined.


    Fang Chen''s expression shifted. "That powerful? Even Nascent Soul Realm cultivators can''t easily approach it?"


    This was a good item then!


    Even though the Little Sword had advanced to the third stage, it could only threaten Golden Core Realm cultivators. If they faced a mid-stage Golden Core Realm or ate-stage Golden Core Realm, or even a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator, things would be extremely challenging. Without using the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture, Fang Chen might not even withstand a single move.


    "Yes, even Nascent Soul Realm cultivator would find it hard to get close to you."


    "What kind ofmp oil should be used?""Dragon Blood. If you don''t have Dragon Blood, the essence blood of a descendant from a Dragon Blood Family can also have the same effect."


    Fang Chen sensed that Dongfang Haojie had gone to entangle himself with Fairy Yu and her senior sister.


    The essence blood on that fatty was indeed miraculous. It can promote Foundation Building Pills to the saint rank and allow mid-grade, yellow-rank treasures to unleash powerparable to high-grade, yellow-rank treasures. No wonder they had to conceal their identities. If certain cultivators, like those from the Spirit Blood Sect, were to find out, they would probably capture and confine them to extract their essence blood.


    Apart from the Dragon Bone Heavenly Lantern, he also had the high-grade, yellow-rank Binding Bell which had seventy-two Soul Imprints. Although it was iplete, if forced to use it, it can still unleash considerable power. The only question is whether it will be effective against Nascent Soul Realm cultivators.


    Fang Hao, who was apanied by a dozen disciples from the third branch, bravely asked. "Fang Chen, don''t you have anything you want to buy? I heard that those Golden Core Realm ancestors are all preparing to snatch a high-grade, yellow-rank treasure. Why don''t we go take a look together?"


    These disciples from the third branch all looked at Fang Chen with a hint of awe in their eyes.


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "Sure, let''s go take a look together."


    In the central area, hundreds of Golden Core Realm cultivators had already gathered, and what they were preparing to fight over were some cultivation resources brought by Immortal Void Rush, Immortal White Tiger, and Supreme Expert Dragon Wood.


    At the same time, Abbess Zhu Yue and the others had dispersed and gone to various stalls of the fifth-tier empire.


    Li Daoye and the others did the same.


    As soon as they arrived at the stalls, they directly inquired about high-grade, yellow-rank treasures.


    "I wonder why Young Master Fang wants to buy so many treasures. Could it be that he ns to use them for us?" Li Daoye wondered with a mix of suspicion and anticipation.


    ***


    A Golden Core Realm cultivator with a red glow on his face held up a flying sword and announced loudly to the surrounding cultivators, "Everyone, this Kun Fish Sword has eighty-three Soul Imprints, making it not just an ordinary item even among high-grade, yellow-rank treasures.


    "Although it has traces of previous use and the Soul Imprints on it are slightly damaged, the price is still affordable. The starting bid is seven thousand low-grade spirit stones."


    Beside him were two familiar figures, one was Wu Jiuquan, the steward of the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion, and the other was Manager Wu.


    Immortal Void Rush and the two other Nascent Soul Realm cultivators were sitting not far away, asionally chatting but not paying much attention to the auction. Clearly, what they brought was also being sold through the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion.


    In this area, the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion had the most stalls, and all kinds of cultivation resources were abundant.


    Fang Chen sighed inwardly. "Is there only one high-grade, yellow-rank treasure like this?"


    Fortunately, he had made preparations in advance and had given some spirit stones to Abbess Zhu Yue and the others to help purchase high-grade, yellow-rank treasures. Such high-tier treasures were rare, and the fact that one was being sold here was probably due to the reputation of the trade conference. Otherwise, such items would only be in the hands of Nascent Soul Realm cultivators and wouldn''t be avable outside.


    "Little Sword, crunch the numbers and tell me. How many yellow rank high-grade treasures do you need to advance to the fourth stage?" Fang Chen wondered.


    In just a short while, the bidding for the Kun Fish Sword had already reached eleven thousand.


    Fang Chen realized that what they might be buying wasn''t just a treasure; they were buying social connections. A high-grade, yellow-rank treasure with eighty-three Soul Imprints, even if brand new, wouldn''t likely fetch this price.


    Little Sword''s voice rang out. "Thirty? No, fifty!"


    Little Mirror intervened there. "Damn it, junior, you better be honest. With your current cultivation level, I think you only need around twenty or thirty high-grade, yellow-rank treasures to advance to the fourth stage.


    Little Sword''s voice carried a hint of annoyance as it said, "Mind your own business!"


    Fang Chen calcted silently. "Even if it''s only thirty, it would probably cost two to three hundred thousand low-tier spirit stones. Right now, the spirit stones I have are only enough for one-sixth of that."


    He suddenly realized that Little Sword''s expenditure was indeed too high. Luckily, apart from this aspect, he didn''t have any other expenses requiring spirit stones.


    "After advancing to the fourth stage, I estimate I''ll be able to pose a threat to Nascent Soul Realm cultivators. The investment isrge, but so is the return." Fang Chen looked up at the Kun Fish Sword and confidently dered. "Thirteen thousand."


    "Who?!"


    Fang Wanli was a bit annoyed, but when he saw it was Fang Chen, a strange expression crossed his face. He was the one who had made the previous bid.


    The Nascent Soul cultivators around also looked at Fang Chen with surprise.


    Could this kid have such a hefty fortune? Thirteen thousand low-grade spirit stones were not an amount an ordinary person could casually spend.


    "Young man, buying this high-grade, yellow-rank treasure is useless for you. With your cultivation level, you won''t be able to activate it. It''s better to save your spirit stones and buy Spirit Essence Pills," Fang Wanli advised. This amount of money could buy more than a hundred Spirit Essence Pills.


    "Ancestor, I want to buy it to leave it in my home and appreciate it. After all, it''s a treasure used by a Golden Core Realm expert. Perhaps I can gain some insights from it," Fang Chen exined with a smile.


    The expressions of the powerful Golden Core Realm cultivators were indeed strange; they didn''t really want to buy this treasure, but it was a matter of feasibility. The treasure came from the Azure Cloud Empire, and regardless of its number of Soul Imprints, it was certainly of inferior quality.


    Furthermore, since they hadn''t reached the Golden Core realm yet, they couldn''t fully unleash the power of such a treasure, and it might not be as effective as a high-grade, yellow-rank treasure with seventy-two Soul Imprints. They only made bids to prevent awkwardness at the trade conference and preserve the reputation of the Nascent Soul Expert who put it up for sale.


    Immortal White Tiger nced at Fang Chen and smirked. "How interesting, a mere Qi Refining Realm cultivator can actually afford a high-grade, yellow-rank treasure. The Fang family must be spoiling him too much, don''t you think?"


    Immortal Void Rush remarked lightly, "It might not be the Fang family giving him the spirit stones. I heard that this young man is an Immortal Origin Stone Master."


    "An Immortal Origin Stone Master?!" Immortal White Tiger was taken aback, a strange expression crossing his face. Alchemists, Artifact Refiners, Immortal Origin Stone Masters, and those of simr professions were all wealthy individuals among cultivators, nevercking in ordinary cultivation resources.

 Chapter 430: Meeting Gift

    Chapter 430: Meeting Gift


    "He... He cane up with a whole thirteen thousand low-grade spirit stones!?"


    The sixth princess stared nkly at the scene not far away. She vaguely remembered when she had just arrived in Grand Qian, she saw Immortal Fire Cloud take out hundreds of low-grade spirit stones and count them repeatedly, budgeting how she''d buy the spiritual materials she wanted this time.


    Immortal Fire Cloud had originally intended to go up to Fang Chen and greet him, but when she saw him with a group of Golden Core Realm cultivators, she decided to wait. She never expected to witness this scene.


    "Xia Ying, it seems like your rtionship with Fang Chen isn''t very good. When you two meetter, try not to offend him," Immortal Fire Cloud suddenly advised.


    "I understand, Master." the sixth princess replied with aplex expression, nodding lightly.


    Suddenly, a figure appeared from the side, speaking rapidly and excitedly as he pointed toward Fang Chen''s direction. "Immortal Fire Cloud? You''re also here! Let me ask you, that person, yes, that person, did you just see him? Is he an old acquaintance of ours?"


    Immortal Fire Cloud''s expression was filled with surprise. "Daoist Ya, you''re here too?"


    "With such a grand event happening, even if I had to crawl with a broken leg, I would stille over." Daoist Ya rolled his eyes. He suddenly looked nervous. "Did you all see that too? Am I mistaken?"


    "No, you''re not mistaken, it''s him," confirmed Immortal Fire Cloud.Daoist Ya immediately turned excited. "That''s incredible! I didn''t expect to know such a prominent figure. I must catch up with himter!"


    Immortal Fire Cloud nodded. "Let''s go togetherter."


    Having Daoist Yae along would make it less awkward and more natural.


    While the two were conversing, Fang Chen had already won the bid for the Kun Fish Sword, spending thirteen thousand spirit stones for it. There was no Golden Core Realm cultivator willing topete for it.


    ''<em>They''re probably about done</em>,'' Fang Chen thought to himself as he put away the Kun Fish Sword.


    A high-grade, yellow-rank treasure usually went for around two thousand to five thousand spirit stones depending on the number of Soul Imprints the treasure had. Fang Chen had left behind twenty thousand low-grade spirit stones and entrusted the remaining thirty thousand to Abbess Zhu Yue and others to assist him in purchasing.


    Without any surprises, they should havepleted their purchases by now. Today''s event was different from previous ones; all parties were well-prepared, with ample goods and a sufficient number of high-grade, yellow-rank spiritual treasures avable. Additionally, they were buying in a distributed manner, which wouldn''t attract too much attention.


    Just as Fang Chen was about to find Abbess Zhu Yue and the others, he saw Immortal Fire Cloud and her group approaching.


    Immortal Fire Cloud greeted with folded hands. "Lord Fang?"


    Fang Hao nced at the trio with a hint of doubt on his face. "Fang Chen, do you know these three?"


    "Yeah, I''ve met them before." Fang Chen nodded lightly. "I''ll catch up with them, you guys go ahead and look around."


    "Alright," Fang Hao responded.


    The sixth princess''s expression was filled withplexity. "The cultivation level of these Fang Family members is not low."


    Looking at it now, Fang Chen''s background seemed much higher than hers. It wasughable topare the Grand Xia Royal Family to the three pirs of Grand Qian.


    "It''s really Lord Fang, how coincidental. I''m Daoist Ya," Daoist Ya eximed joyfully.


    ¡°Since you''vee from afar, why don''t we go to the teahouse for a chat? After all, this trade conference willst for a full seven days, and today is just the first day. There''s no rush," Fang Chen suggested with a smile.


    Both Immortal Fire Cloud and Daoist Ya were pleasantly surprised by Fang Chen''s invitation to the teahouse.


    As they walked, the sixth princess remained silent despite Immortal Fire Cloud''s subtle hints several times. She kept her head down and didn''t talk.


    ***


    "Why aren''t you being reasonable? It''s obvious that our master was the first one who showed interest in that spirit beast egg. How could you intervene halfway?"


    "What reason? Doesn¡¯t the highest bidder get it? I value this spirit beast egg. It''s a third-grade, fire-type spirit beast, right? I''ll pay eight hundred low-grade spirit stones for it."


    "Xiaoke, don''t argue with her. Let her have this spirit beast egg,"


    "But, Master¡­."


    "Your master is right. Third-grade spirit beasts are not easy to raise. You two might not have the ability to nurture it to adulthood, so giving it to you would be a waste."


    "Oh, isn''t that Elder Su from the Beast Spirit Valley?" Daoist Ya eximed softly.


    Immortal Fire Cloud looked up and indeed saw the woman dressed as a peasant holding a mother hen, apanied by Zhang Xiaoke and Yan Ruyue.


    "Pancake Zhang."


    The sixth princess''s gaze fell on Zhang Xiaoke, her eyesplex. During the spirit measurement, Pancake Zhang was one of the few with exceptional talent.


    She still recalled another youngdy who came from a Hall of Compassion. She had been epted into the Southern Heavenly Sect. She didn¡¯t know if that person hade to Grand Qian.


    "Let''s go take a look." Fang Chen smiled and led the group toward that stall. Initially, it was crowded, but as soon as people recognized Fang Chen, they consciously made way for him.


    Daoist Ya couldn''t help but sigh inwardly at the treatment Fang Chen received in a ce like Grand Qian. It was something he couldn''t have imagined.


    The ones vying for the spirit beast egg against Elder Su were none other than Sui Nianhua and her senior brothers from the Southern Heavenly Sect. However, at this moment, her senior brothers stood silently with a hint of disdain on their faces.


    Sui Nianhua''s expression soured a bit when she saw Fang Chen. "Master Fang, are you nning to raise a spirit beast as well?"


    Her senior brothers, all at the Foundation Building stage, looked even more wary. After witnessing Fang Chen''s fight with Jue Wudi, they no longer dared to underestimate this Qi Refining Realm cultivator. Being able to break their junior sister''s illusions and easily suppress a Foundation Building Realm cultivator made everyone wary.


    "Lord Fang." The woman who was dressed as a peasant recognized Fang Chen and was surprised to see him apanied by Immortal Fire Cloud and Daoist Ya. Zhang Xiaoke chuckled and didn''t greet them.


    When Yan Ruyue saw hisck of reaction, she was certain that her junior brother had found Fang Chen long ago.


    Sui Nianhua furrowed her brows. "Do they know each other?"


    She nced at the spirit beast egg at the stall once again.


    <em>Could he be there to help those of the Spirit Beast Valley?</em>


    ¡°Young Lady Sui, you go ahead and buy your spirit beast egg. I''ll catch up with some acquaintances."


    Fang Chen smiled lightly and nodded toward the peasant woman. "Elder Su, has Xiaoke been diligent in his cultivation?"


    Elder Su nodded. "Xiaoke has indeed been diligent in his cultivation."


    "Elder Su, are you here to buy spirit beast eggs?" Daoist Ya interjected. "Oh, are they for your disciples? ording to your Spirit Beast Valley''s techniques, higher-grade spirit beast eggs are preferable,"


    Fang Chen turned to the stall owner. "Do you have any fourth-grade spirit beast eggs? Bring out two of them."


    The stall owner was slightly surprised and revealed a strange expression. "Fourth-grade? Those won''te for cheap."


    Elder Su seemed to have understood Fang Chen''s intentions as she quickly said, "Lord Fang, there''s no need for this¡­."


    "No worries. Consider it a gesture of goodwill for Xiaoke and hispanions." Fang Chen smiled and said to the stall owner, "If you have them, take them out. If not, we''ll look elsewhere."


    "We do, we do! I''ve been in this business for over a century. Of course I have fourth-grade spirit beast eggs. Just tell me how much you¡¯re willing to pay for them!"


    The stall owner didn''t want to miss out on this deal and immediately prepared to showcase some of his stashed treasures.


    Sui Nianhua looked puzzled. Buying fourth-grade spirit beast eggs as a gift? And giving two of them as a gesture of goodwill?


    She almost thought the person in front of her was not a Qi Refining Realm cultivator but a Golden Core Realm ancestor¡­.


    Was he really nning to buy them fourth-grade spirit beast eggs as a meeting gift?!

 Chapter 431: Stop Yapping And Hurry Up!

    Chapter 431: Stop Yapping And Hurry Up!


    The stall owner fumbled through his storage ring and pulled out two spirit beast eggs, one blue and one red. Their surfaces were covered with intricate patterns, and they seemed to be breathing, undting slightly.


    Grinning, the stall owner said, "Young Master Fang, both of these are fourth-grade spirit beast eggs, but I cannot determine the exact type of spirit beasts they are. If you are interested, they can be yours for 5,000 low-grade spirit stones."


    <em>5,000 low-grade spirit stones?</em>


    A look of bizarreplexity appeared in the eyes of Immortal Fire Cloud and the others. Such a sum was something they could only dream of having¡ªit was simply out of their reach.


    Sui Nianhua''s expression stiffened.


    She nced at the Spirit Beast Egg in her hand, which was priced at 800 low-grade spirit stones, snorted coldly, and handed the egg back to the stall owner before turning away. Her fellow senior brothers hurried after her, their faces showing their displeasure. A junior with lesser cultivation had a fortune that made them feel utterly inferior.


    Yet, they were also curious if Fang Chen could really afford it. As they turned their heads back, they saw Fang Chen settling the payment and purchasing the two Spirit Beast Eggs.


    "Are these really for us?" asked Zhang Xiaoke with a bewildered expression. Fang Chen had already given him quite a few low-grade spirit stones before, and he was handing over Spirit Beast Eggs now, which seemed excessively generous.


    He really wished Fang Chen spent these spirit stones on more crucial resources.Even though Yan Ruyue desired deeply to own a fourth-stage Spirit Beast Egg, she was too embarrassed to ept it and instinctively looked toward Elder Su.


    "Just take them, it''s nothing," said Fang Chen as he casually tossed the eggs to them before heading toward the direction of the tea house.


    Immortal Fire Cloud and the others hurriedly followed, with the sixth princess sneaking nces at Zhang Xiaoke and Yan Ruyue with envy.


    Yan Ruyue looked at the peasant woman. "Master¡­."


    The peasant woman nodded softly. "Keep it."


    She then led the two to catch up with Fang Chen''s group.


    Yan Ruyue was ecstatic as she yed lovingly with the spirit beast egg in her hands. She only stopped when Zhang Xiaoke reminded her to store it in her storage ring.


    At the tea house, the manager had specifically arranged arge private room for Fang Chen.


    It was only when Abbess Zhu Yue and her group arrived that Daoist Ya and Immortal Fire Cloud finally learned that they had arrived in Great Qian too.


    Soon, Li Daoye also arrived, and when he saw so many people in the tea room, he grew curious.


    Fang Chen said softly, "There''s one more personing, please wait a moment."


    Everyone looked at each other. One more person wasing? Who could it be? Perhaps it¡¯s another cultivator from the me Empire?


    Xia Ji entered the tea room, sweeping his gaze around. "Heh, what a lively gathering!"


    <em>Who is this?</em>


    Immortal Fire Cloud and the others did not recognize Xia Ji. However, when the sixth princess saw Xia Ji, her expression froze, and she eximed in disbelief, "Third Brother!?"


    Xia Ji frowned slightly. "Oh, you''re here too?"


    The sixth princess''s face turned awkward. In the past, she had been close with Xia Yu, and when they were younger, they often opposed Fang Chen together.


    Immortal Fire Cloud and the others realized. "So he''s also from Grand Xia."


    "Third Brother, this is my master. I came to Grand Qian with her to participate in the trade conference," the sixth princess whispered.


    Xia Ji greeted Immortal Fire Cloud with a fist salute. "My little sister can be quite temperamental. I hope she hasn''t troubled you."


    Immortal Fire Cloud replied politely, "Herprehension is quite good, and she has been diligent. It¡¯s no trouble at all."


    Given that the other party seemed to have a very good rtionship with Fang Chen and was also in Great Qian, she naturally did not dare to neglect him.


    "That''s good," said Xia Ji, nodding slightly. He then looked toward Fang Chen, signaling him.


    Fang Chen nodded. "No worries, just give them to me.


    Hearing that, everyone took out the high-grade, yellow-rank treasures they had bought and handed them to Fang Chen, who stored them in his storage ring one by one.


    He had given them thirty thousand low-grade spirit stones, and he was quite satisfied with the ten high-grade, yellow-rank treasures that they had bought with them.


    Meanwhile, Little Sword was drooling over these treasures and was urging Fang Chen to return to the Fang Family so that it could devour the treasures. The transactions were so swift that Immortal Fire Cloud and the others only caught a brief glimpse and couldn''t see clearly what the treasures were. However, the aura from the treasures shocked them deeply.


    <em>These were definitely not ordinary!</em>


    Considering the vast array of treasures, coupled with the spirit beast eggs Fang Chen had just purchased, it was hard for them to imagine just how immense Fang Chen''s wealth was.


    After chatting for half an hour, Fang Chen stood up to leave. He left Abbess Zhu Yue and others to catch up with Immortal Fire Cloud and her group.


    Not long after Fang Chen left, Xia Ji invited Immortal Fire Cloud and the sixth princess to visit Profound Void Temple.


    ***


    Li Cang and Chang Fen were still wandering around the trade conference.


    Now that Jiang Tianai had also left, the courtyard felt very quiet.


    Returning to his room, Fang Chen took the treasures and gave them to Little Sword to devour.


    His divine soul then exited his body and stood high above Grand Qian.


    His gaze swept over each of the Golden Core Realm cultivators, lingering particrly on Tong Hu and the others.


    Tong Hu didn''t show any unusual behaviors, as if Jue Wudi''s death had nothing to do with him.


    Tong Bozhou was energetically promoting the Jade River Pavilion, having clearly prepared arge batch of spiritual resources in advance, aiming to make a big profit at the trade conference. He looked like an ordinary merchant and there was nothing that pointed to him being a Spirit Blood Sect cultivator.


    The ancestor of the Heavenly Southern Sect was wandering around with Yu Yuefan, and there was no sign of anything unusual.


    In fact, ever since Jue Wudi''s death, Fang Chen had been most concerned about these two. The ancestor of Heavenly Southern Sect was Jue Wudi''s second senior brother, and Fang Chen wanted to see if he would send any messages after Jue Wudi''s death. Unfortunately, there was no reaction, and it was as if they had reallye just for the trade conference.


    Fang Chen''s gaze shifted to Immortal Void Rush, Immortal White Tragon, and Supreme Expert Dragon Wood.


    Immortal Void Rush was a cultivator from the ying Spiritual Division, whose target was also the Spirit Blood Sect. Yet, at this moment, she appeared extremely calm, only asionally ncing at Dongfang Haojie who was not far away.


    Immortal White Dragon was chatting with Supreme Expert Dragon Wood and had a look of boredom on his face. It seemed they hade to Great Qian just to keep up appearances and maintain some semnce of order.


    Laughter and lively chatter filled the air of the empire. If not for his knowledge of the Spirit Blood Sect''s presence, Fang Chen might have been infected by the festive atmosphere of the trade conference. However, he knew very well that beneath the surface, an undercurrent of malice was brewing, with some people harboring evil intentions, attempting to shake up the Hidden Cloud Region.


    After some time, Little Sword finished devouring the items and reintegrated into Fang Chen''s body. Fang Chen sensed that Little Sword had grown slightly stronger, even though it was still far from the fourth rank. However, it was clear that the tens of thousands of spirit stones had not been wasted.


    "Tonight, I''ll go and talk to Dongfang Haojie."


    ***


    Later that night.


    Dongfang Haojie dragged his tired body back to his room. He felt a sense of security knowing that Immortal Void Rush was in the room next door.


    A familiar voice sounded again out of nowhere. "Brother Dongfang, may I borrow some more essence blood? Consider it a favor."


    Dongfang Haojie paused slightly, a trace of annoyance appearing on his face. "You already took ten drops and you''re only saying you owe me a favor now?"


    "I tipped you off about the Spirit Blood Sect, and you gave me your blood essence. That squared us off. This time, I will owe you a favor. Stop yapping and hurry up."

 Chapter 432: The Complete Dragon Bone Heavenly Lantern

    Chapter 432: The Complete Dragon Bone Heavenly Lantern


    Upon returning from the pce, Fang Chen took out the Dragon Bone Heavenly Lantern. Following the method described by Mirror of the Universe, he used spiritual energy to extract themp oil that was originally inside and then reced it with Dongfang Haojie''s essence blood.


    "Is it done now?" Fang Chen asked.


    Mirror of the Universe chuckled. "Hmm, now this Dragon Bone Sky Lantern can be consideredplete. Don''t underestimate it just because it''s only a middle-grade, yellow-rank item. Once you ignite it with spiritual energy, it will be difficult for even Nascent Soul cultivators to get close before themp oil burns out."


    "How long can ten drops of blood essencest?" Fang Chen inquired further.


    "It depends on the strength of the opponent. If it''s a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator, it shouldn''t be a problem to hold them back for ten breaths. If it''s a Golden Core Realm cultivator, holding them back for a day and night wouldn''t be an issue," Mirror of the Universe exined.


    "If it can only withstand ten breaths against a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator..." Fang Chen pondered.


    It may seem short, but in reality, ten breaths would be around thirty seconds, half a minute. Holding back a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator for half a minute was already a terrifying feat; within that time, many changes could ur in the battle.


    The Dragon Bone Heavenly Lantern, the Binding Bell, and the Shadow Buddha Technique were all his current trump cards. Little Sword was his strongest hand. He would not use it unless absolutely necessary, and he had to save it for that female sword cultivator.


    "I''m armed to the teeth now, I just have to wait for the Spirit Blood Sect to make a move."In the following days, Fang Chen would visit the trade conference every day, asionally ying with some Immortal Origin. With some luck, he could make a decent profit.


    He used his remaining low-grade spirit stones and the ones he earned to buy all the Spirit Essence Pills. These pills were extremely beneficial for Qi Refining Realm cultivators, and even Foundation Building Realm cultivators could use them to improve their cultivation.


    The next few days passed peacefully without any incidents, and Tong Hu and others continued their activities as usual, without showing any signs of suspicion.


    Xia Ji handed over the Spirit Element Pills he had just bought to the sixth princess in front of a booth. "Keep these Spirit Essence Pills. Don''t think they''re too few."


    The sixth princess was stunned. There were ten Spirit Essence Pills. Those were equivalent to nine hundred low-grade spirit stones! She never expected that her third brother was doing so well in Great Qian.


    The sixth princess suddenly lowered her head while holding the bottle in her hand. "Brother, I''m sorry,"


    Xia Ji was slightly puzzled. "Sorry for what?"


    "For the past¡­."


    Xia Jiughed. "The past? We were all children back then, it''s normal to have disagreements. Do you still remember those things from the past? I only remember how naive we were back then. Thinking about it now, it''s quite funny actually."


    Fang Chen arrived with Fang Jue, Fang Xiu, Fang Yun, and the others.


    "Xia Ji, let''s go enjoy ourselves at the Jade River Pavilion."


    Xia Ji''s eyes lit up, and he said to the sixth princess, "Let''s go together. Brother Fang is now an Immortal Origin Master. You''ll see something extraordinary."


    The sixth princess was slightly surprised. "Immortal Origin Stone Master?"


    She had just recently learned about Immortal Origin Stones, so it was quite shocking to hear that Fang Chen was an Immortal Origin Stone Master.


    There was a designated area in the trade conference that exclusively sold Immortal Origin Stones. Other than Jade River Pavilion, there were also more than a dozen stalls of simr scale and all of them were from various fifth-tier empires.


    "Master Fang is here again."


    "Master Fang, why note to my ce today? Jade River Pavilion might not have anything good left."


    "Yeah,e and take a look at our ce."


    Many shopkeepers greeted Fang Chen warmly on the way, and many cultivators in the vicinity instinctively followed him, leaving behind whatever they were doing.


    These days, wherever Fang Chen went, business boomed. The news of Fang Chen being an Immortal Origin Stone Master had spread far and wide. Despite Great Qian having hundreds of Golden Core Realm cultivators and three Nascent Soul Realm powerhouses, there were no Immortal Origin Stone Masters. From this, one could see how rare an Immortal Origin Stone Master was.


    On the other hand, Dongfang Haojie, who was chatting happily with Fairy Tianyin, couldn''t help but sneer when he saw the bustling scene around the Immortal Origin District.


    "What Immortal Origin Stone Master? If I weren''t so deficient in blood right now, I would show you what a real Immortal Origin Stone Master is."


    Thinking of that, he suddenly remembered that there had been no movement from the Spirit Blood Sect for the past few days. He couldn''t help but look at Immortal Void Rush. Hemunicated via voice transmission, "<em>Senior, the Spirit Blood Sect has been quiet all this time, and the trade conference is about to end. Do you think they''ve given up?</em>"


    "<em>The Spirit Blood Sect won''t give up so easily. Their silence means they have been preparing,</em>" Immortal Void Rush replied via sound transmission. "<em>Just be patient and wait. Perhaps you are no longer their target.</em>"


    "That''s good to know." Dongfang Haojie sighed in relief. It seemed that the Spirit Blood Sect might have given up since they saw him stick close with Nascent Soul Realm experts constantly.


    Dongfang Haojie turned his head to continue pestering her. "Fairy Tianyin, I''m not just talking big. After this trade conference is over,e back to Great Wei with me. I''ll show you a treasure!"


    Fairy Tianyin''s expression showed a hint of impatience, but unfortunately, her senior brother had already left for the Immortal Origin Stone area to watch the excitement, and there was no one to stop this annoying fly from pestering her.


    Fairy Tianyin suddenly paused as she furrowed her brows. She looked at the sky and said, "Wait a minute, the sky seems to have been quite the same for a long time."


    Dongfang Haojie subconsciously looked up at the sky with her. "Fairy Tianyin, what do you mean by saying that the sky hasn''t changed for a long time?"


    Sunlight, white clouds, and a gentle breeze. Everything seemed normal. Nothing out of the ordinary.


    "The clouds haven''t moved for a long time!" Fairy Tianyin frowned and then turned to look at Immortal Void Rush. "Senior, something doesn''t seem right."


    Immortal Void Rush nced at her. "What''s wrong?"


    "The clouds in the sky haven''t moved for a long time," Fairy Tianyin said softly.


    Immortal White Tiger smiled. "What does it matter whether the clouds in the sky moved or not? Perhaps they are tired of moving. Besides, even if they moved a bit, you wouldn''t be able to tell, right?"


    Immortal Void Rush exined, "Immortal White Tiger, she has been practicing at the illusion yard for several years, so she is sensitive to changes in the surroundings."


    Immortal White Tiger was slightly surprised. "Hasn''t the master of the Illusionary Academy stopped taking disciples for two hundred years?"


    Supreme Expert Dragon Wood couldn''t help but look at Fairy Tianyin for a few moments. He seemed curious as to what talent she had to have for her to catch the eye of the King of Illusion and be taken as his disciple.


    Ordinary people might think that Immortal Void Rush was the one in charge of the Purple Pole Dao Academy, but in reality, the strongest in the Purple Pole Dao Academy was the King of Illusion!


    Even cultivators like them at the Nascent Soul Realm didn''t want to confront a figure like that. If they did, they didn''t believe they had much chance of winning.


    "Let me take a look," said Immortal Void Rush as she pointed a finger toward the sky.


    The power of metal condensed into a flying sword and shot towards the sky. However, in the next moment, the flying sword seemed to be swallowed by something, disappearing instantly.


    Immortal Void Rush couldn''t sense it anymore.


    "Someone has set up arge formation to trap us," said Immortal Void Rush as she turned to look at Immortal White Dragon and Supreme Expert Dragon Wood.


    As expected, the Spirit Blood Sect had made a move, and they had changed their target and no longer attempted to assassinate Dongfang Haojie.


    However... What they were about to do next was even more terrifying!

 Chapter 433: Using Hidden Cloud as Furnace

    Chapter 433: Using Hidden Cloud as Furnace


    The Immortal Origin Stone area was bustling with activity at this moment.


    ¡°Master Fang is truly impressive!¡±


    ¡°Another sess! Master Fang has been seeding a lot recently, and we have benefited a lot from following him!¡±


    Fang Chen had cut open another Immortal Origin Stone and exchanged the low-grade spirit stones he had just earned for Spirit Essence Pills. There were probably around a hundred Spirit Essence Pills in his storage ring by now.


    Fang Chen pondered for a moment. "I''ll give these pills to my father and younger sister after I return. With these pills, their cultivation will be able to advance rapidly."


    If he could resolve the matter with the Spirit Blood Sect this time, he would immediately set off to Grand Xia.


    He was starting to miss home a little.


    The sixth princess followed beside Xia Ji, silently watching Fang Chen with aplicated emotion in her eyes. "It''s only been a short time, but Fang Chen''s skills have reached a level that I can hardly imagine¡­."


    Fang Chen suddenly sent Xia Ji a voice transmission. "<em>Xia Ji, is Immortal Fire Cloud not nning to leave yet</em>?"A few days ago, he had indirectly advised Immortal Fire Cloud, Elder Su, and Daoist Ya not to stay if they had nothing important to do.


    Xia Ji replied via voice transmission, "<em>This girl''s master has been interested in the scriptures in the Buddhist Hall recently and seems to have no intention of leaving. If we don''t reveal the truth, she won''t leave. But we can''t be sure if she isn''t a Spirit Blood Sect cultivator herself.</em>"


    "<em>Let it be. Whether it''s good fortune or misfortune, it¡¯s inescapable. It all depends on their fortune.</em>"


    ¡°<em>By the way, should we really not inform my master about this? Although he is only at the Foundation Building Realm, he¡¯s in the grandpletion stage after all and is considered a half-step Golden Core Realm cultivator. If my master knows about this, perhaps he can be of great help at a critical moment.</em>¡±


    "<em>We don''t have to involve him for now. If the sky falls, there will be someone to hold it up. When the Spirit Blood Sect really makes a move, Grandmaster Chanyuan will be informed of this matter.</em>"


    Fang Chen subconsciously nced in the direction of Immortal Void Rush and suddenly sensed something amiss.


    <em>What''s going on?</em>


    Fang Chen''s divine soul immediately left his body and arrived near the three Golden Core Realm cultivators. The expressions of the three of them were somewhat solemn at the moment, even the carefree Immortal White Tiger was looking up at the sky profoundly. It seemed like there was something extraordinary in the sky.


    Fang Chen looked up, and his pupils suddenly contracted. His divine soul felt unstable, creating ripples.


    There were four cultivators dressed differently standing in the sky, each holding a blood-red stone tablet in their hands. Blood-colored energy continuously surged from these stone tablets, enveloping the Grand Qian Imperial City like a red mist.


    The range of this phenomenon even covered the outer city. If it weren''t for his divine soul, he wouldn''t have been able to see such a sight.


    Fang Chen''s expression turned serious. "Spirit Blood Sect cultivators?! Are they setting up a formation?!"


    In the next moment, Fang Chen''s divine soul pierced through the sky and directly arrived next to the four individuals.


    ¡°Isn''t thismotion a bit too big? I''m afraid it will attract the cultivators from the Killing Spiritual Division,¡± said one of them suddenly.


    Another person sneered. ¡°What''s the Killing Spiritual Division? By the time they arrive, the Hidden Cloud Region will have already been engulfed in mes of war, and our Blood Spirit Pills will have been formed long ago.¡±


    ¡°The Spirit Blood Sect has always operated in the shadows. Taking on the task of refining an entire fifth-tier empire capital city, including three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators... Isn''t it a bit reckless? If news of this spreads, all the other Spirit Blood Sect cultivators everywhere will likely suffer a blow.¡±


    ¡°There''s no choice. Our leader is only a step away from breaking through from the Nascent Soul Realm so the amount of Blood Spirit Pills he needs is enormous. It''s all because that Dongfang Haojie has a special constitution; not even Kunlong could poison him to death. This matter is also his responsibility. When our leader advances beyond Nascent Soul Realm, he''ll probably have to bear the consequences.¡±


    ¡°No matter, as long as our leader breaks out of Nascent Soul Realm, our branch will remain stable, and we''ll gain many benefits.¡±


    Fang Chen''s expression became grave. From the conversation of the four individuals, he learned that these four battle generals were subordinates of a grandpletion Nascent Soul Realm cultivator! And that cultivator was the one nning to ascend to the Enlightenment Realm using the Hidden Cloud Region!


    Fang Chen''s eyes shed with cold light. ¡°Is this to break through the bottleneck and ascend from the Nascent Soul Realm to the Enlightenment Realm? Is that why they''re treating the entire Hidden Region as an alchemy furnace?¡±


    These Spirit Blood Sect cultivators were truly ruthless. They utterly disregarded the lives of others. They were even more sinister than the demonic cultivators he had heard of.


    ¡°Can Kunlong handle three early-stage Nascent Soul Realm cultivators? Void Rush, White Tiger, and Dragon Wood are among the Azure Cloud Empire¡¯s top experts. They are not easy to deal with.¡±


    ¡°If Kunlong can''t suppress them, even if we blockade the entire Grand Qian Imperial City, we won''t be able to use this ce as a furnace.¡±


    ¡°Yes, this matter is extremely important. How confident is Kunlong? If we are able to refine Grand Qian, the entire Hidden Cloud Region will fall into chaos tomorrow. Conversely, if we fail, all our previous efforts will be in vain!¡±


    ¡°You can rest assured. Although Kunlong is in the early stage of the Nascent Soul Realm too, hisbat power is among the top in our ranks. Otherwise, why would our leader value him so much? He even said that in a few years, he will advance to the mid-stage Nascent Soul Realm, and in the future... he might even be our top leader!¡±


    Fang Chen''s eyebrows slightly furrowed. ¡°Kunlong Battle General?¡±


    In the next moment, his divine soul returned to his body. As he was making his way to Immortal Void Rush, he saw a ck mist enveloping the area, covering the tens of yards around Immortal Void Rush in an instant.


    ¡°You dare!¡±


    ¡°Damn it. How dare you sneak attack me!¡±


    ¡°Amitabha Buddha!¡±


    The voices of Immortal Void Rush, Immortal White Tiger, and Supreme Expert Dragon Wood consecutively sounded within the ck mist. The Golden Core Realm cultivators present were puzzled by what was happening and revealed expressions of shock.


    In the next second, countless screams echoed, followed by a flurry of skeletal remains flying out of the ck mist. These skeletons didn''t have even a sliver of flesh, as if they had been dead for many years. However, naturally, that wasn''t the case, as these were people who had been alive and well moments ago. They had unfortunately been enveloped inside the ck mist together.


    Dongfang Haojie pulled Fairy Tianyin out of the ck mist in a sorry state. He looked at the ground full of skeletal remains and felt lingering fear in his heart. He nced back at the ck mist. ¡°Damn, I almost died in there!¡±


    These people didn''t die from the ck mist but from the aftermath of the sh of the Nascent Soul Realm cultivators! The aftermath of Nascent Soul Realm cultivator¡¯s battles was terrifying. Just a touch can turn the whole body into minced meat!


    If it weren''t for the trump cards his father had given him, both Fairy Tianyin and he would have died in there!


    ¡°What happened?!¡± shouted a Golden Core Realm cultivator at Dongfang Haojie.


    ¡°Can''t you see? It¡¯s a sneak attack from a Nascent Soul Realm expert!¡± Dongfang Haojie retorted angrily. He didn''t dare to utter the three words "Spirit Blood Sect" because he wasn''t sure which of the Golden Core Realm cultivators around him were members of that sect. He just hoped that those Spirit Blood Sect dogs would remain mysterious and not make a move out in the open again!

 Chapter 434: Gone mad! Everyone’s gone mad!

    Chapter 434: Gone mad! Everyone¡¯s gone mad!


    Fang Chen immediately used his divine soul to search for traces of Abbess Zhu Yue and the others as he instructed Xia Ji to look for them.


    They didn''t know how many Spirit Blood Sect cultivators there were in Grand Qian, so their best bet to stay safe was for everyone to be bunched up together.


    Fortunately, Abbess Zhu Yue and the others were prepared, and they approached Fang Chen immediately upon seeing the ck mist appear.


    The sixth princess followed Xia Ji, her eyes filled with shock. "Third Brother, what''s going on? Someone dared to attack... a Nascent Soul Realm expert?"


    "Grand Qian is going to be in chaos, so be prepared," said Xia Ji, but he didn''t exin further. After seeing Abbess Zhuyue and the others, he led them towards Fang Chen.


    "Grand Qian is going to be in chaos?! What about Master...?"


    Xia Ji exined, "Your Master is safe in the Profound Void Temple. My master is not someone to be trifled with either."


    It was only when the sixth princess heard this that her expression eased a little and she finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    ***"Everyone, don''t panic!"


    The voice of Grand Qian¡¯s ancestor, Qian Wuji, spread throughout the entire capital. He stood together with Princess Shenlong, their gazes solemn as they looked at the ck mist.


    Fortunately, the range of the ck mist had not expanded. At this moment, the ck mist had be the battleground of the Nascent Soul Realm cultivators, and it won''t affect the outside world.


    Fang Wanli was dumbfounded. "Uncle, what''s going on? Could it be that Immortal Void Rush has made some enemies?"


    Fang Tingjian''s expression was serious. "Don''t ask, don''t speak. Just watch."


    At that moment, a Golden Core Realm cultivator suddenly screamed and his head fell to the ground, his body torn apart.


    ¡°He Dongzhe, what are you doing!?¡±


    "What am I doing? Naturally, I''m refining pills."


    He Dongze, a mid-stage Golden Core Realm cultivator from a certain tier-five empire, sneered and once again attacked the Golden Core Realm cultivators around him. As soon as he made a move, the Golden Core Realm cultivators in the early stage around him couldn''t stop him at all. In just a few breaths, another one died.


    He Dongze was like a race''s kickstarter. After he made a move, Golden Core Realm cultivators around him started making their move and attacking.


    Dozens of Golden Core Realm cultivators died in the blink of an eye.


    The scenes in front of them left the Qi Refining Realm and Foundation Building Realm cultivators present stunned, unable to snap out of it for a long time.


    It wasn''t until Master Chen was also attacked that they came back to their senses, fleeing in terror while shouting, "Gone mad! Everyone¡¯s gone mad!"


    Qian Wuji, Princess Shenlong, Fang Tingjian, Fang Wanli, and the others were also attacked by Golden Core Realm cultivators. Those cultivators who attacked were unfamiliar, but their cultivations were powerful. Among them were those in thete stage of the Golden Core Realm. There were even some like Qian Wuji who were in the grandpletion stage of the Golden Core Realm.


    "Uncle, what''s going on!?" Fang Wanli roared as he fought. He retreated while protecting the juniors of the family.


    "Fight and retreat while protecting the inner disciples. The situation is not in our favor!" said Fang Tingjian as his eyes swept across the hunting ground, his heart sinking slightly.


    The number of Golden Core Realm cultivators who attacked ounted for more than sixty percent of all the Golden Core Realm cultivators present. That didn''t even include the unfamiliar faces with terrifying cultivations who appeared suddenly! It was clear that someone intended to massacre everyone present today, and their goal was to exterminate Grand Qian!


    Some Golden Core Realm cultivators tried breaking through the chaos by escaping through spatial rifts, only to discover with horror that the area had been sealed off by a formation.


    A Golden Core Realm cultivator bitterly said, "Grand Qian has been sealed off by a formation! Someone wants to exterminate us all!"


    Fang Chen¡¯s divine soul stood in the void. Until that moment, he was still trying to remember every Spirit Blood Sect cultivator who had exposed their tracks till today.


    Jiang Shunzheng was fighting with someone, and his disciples like Sui Nianhua were also trying to help him. It was clear that he was not a Spirit Blood Sect cultivator.


    On the side of Great Wei, Immortal Tianwu was teaming up with Nie Tianyuan to fight a Golden Core Realm cultivator.


    "Nie Tianyuan hasn''t exposed his identity yet. Immortal Tianwu is in danger."


    The Golden Core Realm cultivators from Chao Xiang were already fighting each other, indicating that there were Spirit Blood Sect cultivators among them.


    On the side of Tianji...


    Those low-key Golden Core Realm cultivators were hunting down other Golden Core Realm cultivators frantically. All of them were Blood Spirit Sect cultivators without exception!


    Xia Ji''s voice rang out. "Great, everyone is almost gathered. Where should we go now?"


    Fang Chen¡¯s divine soul returned to his body. At that moment, Fang Jue and the others looked shocked and confused, but they looked at Fang Chen when they heard Xia Ji''s question.


    Fang Chen naturally became their leader in this situation.


    "This is a battlefield between Golden Core Realm and Nascent Soul Realm cultivators. No matter where we go, we need to escape from here first," said Fang Chen in a deep voice.


    He had set up the Green Sky Mountain Protection Grand Formation in his own courtyard. As for the formation he had set up in the hunting ground earlier, he had long since removed it as there were too many cultivators there, and it was a matter of time before it would be discovered.


    "What about my parents¡­?" said Fang Yun as she subconsciously searched for them in the chaotic crowd.


    "Don''t worry about them. Your father is at the Foundation Building Realm and will be able to bring your mother away safely. Right now, take care of yourself first. Fang Jue, take her and leave quickly," Fang Chenmanded.


    ¡°Yes!¡±


    The crowd hurriedly ran in the Fang Family''s direction. Fortunately, the Spirit Blood Sect cultivators who appeared were all Golden Core Realm cultivators and were also on the main battlefield, not far from the ck mist. Therefore, they encountered no obstacles on their way back.


    Along the way, Fang Chen noticed that Fairy Yu and the female sword cultivator were nearby, but he didn''t pay attention to them. Staying near that female sword cultivator was the safest option for Fairy Yu. Unless a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator made a move, who could harm a Golden Core Realm sword cultivator?


    Tong Baizhou looked thoughtfully at the departing figures of Fang Chen and the others with a thoughtful gaze. He turned to his father, Tong Hu, and smiled. "Dad, they''ve retreated. Shall we go over and find them?"


    Tong Hu nodded lightly and followed him. "Mm."


    "<em>Dad, we must get our hands on that Dragon Bone Heavenly Lantern. That¡¯s a precious treasure. As for Fang Chen, we should eliminate him to prevent future troubles. Plus, when the senior of Jue Wudies, we''ll have an exnation,</em>" Tong Baizhoumunicated through voice transmission as they walked.


    "<em>I don''t know why, but I always feel that something is off about Fang Chen. Do you think he might know about the Spirit Blood Sect?</em>" Tong Baizhou inquired as they moved.


    Tong Hu''s face carried a faint smile. "No matter what, today will be the day he dies."


    He nced back at the ck mist behind them with a hint of reverence. "The Kunlong Battle General has made a move, and the three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators have been restrained. They won''t be able to provide reinforcement for a short time." Pausing for a moment, he added, "And our people have all made their moves today. Soon, whether they are cultivators or mortals in the inner and outer cities, they will all be refined into Blood Spirit Pills."


    ¡°From here on, the Hidden Cloud Region won''t be peaceful anymore.¡±


    Tong Baizhou grinned strangely. ¡°Well, that''s great then. I''m tired of staying in Grand Qian. When the Hidden Cloud Region bes a furnace, you will also benefit a lot, right? My cultivation should also advance significantly.¡±


    Halfway through, they encountered the ancestor of the Heavenly Southern Sect and Yu Yuefan.


    ¡°Jue Wudi is my third junior brother,¡± the ancestor of the Heavenly Southern Sect said in just one sentence, confirming their identities.


    ¡°Are you nning to personally avenge him?¡± Tong Hu asked lightly, but his eyes carried a hint of vignce.


    Since the other person was Jue Wudi''s senior brother, naturally, he was also that person¡¯s junior brother, and that person... had a respectable status among all the battle generals. Even Kunlong Battle General would find it difficult topare.


    The Ancestor of the Heavenly Southern Sect nodded lightly. ¡°Yes, I will personally take his head and present it to my eldest senior brother.¡±


    Yu Yuefan looked utterly confused. From start to finish, he had no idea what was happening.

 Chapter 435: Your father is already dead

    <h4>Chapter 435: Your father is already dead</h4>


    Yu Yuefan followed the crowd, heading toward the Fang Family. Along the way, he became increasingly worried. He saw many Qi Refining Realm cultivators hastily passing through the area, but when they saw Tong Hu, they would nod and salute. Then, these Qi Refining Realm cultivators would attack nearby cultivators without mercy, aiming directly at their vitals!


    The chaos at the trade conference was spreading like ink on paper, infecting the entire capital.


    "Ancestor, what is going on?" asked Yu Yuefan, unable to help himself.


    ncing at him, the ancestor of the Heavenly Southern Sect lightly said, "Just follow along. You are a talented individual. Don''t disappoint me."


    Tong Baizhou smiled faintly. "It seems you don''t quite understand yet, Brother. But if you can follow this person, it means that in the future, we will also be considered colleagues."


    "After today, you will understand everything. You will be grateful for the opportunity you have been presented today."


    "Huh?"


    Yu Yuefan was confused, but he vaguely felt that their ancestor had joined some force. And this force was attacking Grand Qian, aiming to conquer the entire city!


    Yu Yuefan suddenly calmed down a bit, as if he had figured something out. "If that''s the case, it''s also an opportunity...."


    Soon, everyone arrived at the Fang Family''s gate. Due to the trade conference, most of the Fang Family''s cultivators had gone to the hunting grounds.


    "Dad, I''ll call Fang Chen out," Tong Baizhou said.


    Tong Hu nodded lightly.


    Tong Baizhou took a deep breath and then shouted loudly, "Young Master Fang, your family¡¯s ancestormands you to quickly go and help them. Today, we will have a tough battle in Grand Qian!"


    At the private manor.


    Daoist Ya looked panicked. "Lord Fang, what is going on?! What has happened here?"


    Daoist Ya was brought here by Fang Chen halfway through.


    "I''ve told you not to stay in Grand Qian, but you wouldn''t listen," said Fang Chen as he shook his head lightly.


    Fang Chen''s expression became serious as he looked toward the direction of the hunting grounds.


    The Kunlong Battle General has already made a move, and the Spirit Blood Sect¡¯s Golden Core Realm cultivators have also shown themselves one by one.


    "If their goal is the entire Grand Qian, there shouldn''t only be Golden Core Realm cultivators. I guess some of the Foundation Building and Qi Refining Realm cultivators who have arrived in this period are also from the Spirit Blood Sect. As for Immortal Void Rush... it seems like she¡¯s still short of manpower."


    Fang Chen noticed that when Immortal Void Rush was enveloped by the ck fog, some of the Golden Core Realm cultivators instantly became extremely vignt. As expected, they were her subordinates. However, it''s unclear if they were from the Killing Spiritual Division.


    Her manpower was simply insufficient, and she certainly didn''t expect the Spirit Blood Sect to be so ruthless this time. They want to refine the entire Grand Qian to cause chaos in the entire Hidden Cloud Region.


    Fang Yun suddenly realized a point and said, "Fang Chen, it seems like you know what''s going on?"


    Fang Chen''s previous statement seemed a bit off!


    The gazes of everyone fell on Fang Chen at the same time.


    Just then, Tong Baizhou''s voice rang out. "Young Master Fang, your family¡¯s ancestormands you to quickly go and help them. Today, we will have a tough battle in Grand Qian!¡±


    "It''s not good to stay here either. We must do what we can." Fang Chen sighed lightly and said to everyone, "If you want to know what''s going on,e with me to meet Tong Baizhou."


    Fang Jue and Fang Xiu were surprised. "Tong Baizhou? Is this rted to him?"


    "<i>Both of you have lower cultivations, so stick close to me</i>," Abbess Zhu Yue transmitted to her two disciples before following Fang Chen out.


    Many disciples in the Fang Family ran around like headless flies. But as soon as they saw Fang Chen, it was as if they had found a leader and they all followed behind him obediently.


    They were both flustered and terrified. As members of the Fang Family, they had never been met with such a situation before. It was one thing for Nascent Soul Realm cultivators to fight, but even the Golden Core Realm ancestors were killing each other as if they had gone mad!


    Before long, they arrived at the entrance of the Fang Family''s manor and happened to see Fang Mosheng leading Fang Lingxing, Fang Shang, and others in a conversation with Tong Hu, looking very anxious.


    Fang Lingxing still looked a bit confused,pletely unaware of what had happened. She even witnessed Master Chen besieged by numerous Golden Core Realm cultivators!


    <i>Were they insane?</i>


    Didn''t they know that Master Chen was a famous Talisman Master in the Hidden Cloud Region? Even though he was only at the grandpletion stage of the Golden Core Realm, his talisman skills surpassed many Nascent Soul Realm experts!


    "Don''t worry. Those three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators and the Golden Core cultivators should be able to handle this properly. It''s probably some small fries trying to disrupt this trade conference and snatch cultivation resources," said Tong Hu indifferently.


    Fang Mosheng pleaded anxiously. "However, both of our ancestors are currently besieged by others. Senior Tong, please lend a hand!"


    "Father, Fang Chen is here."


    Fang Mosheng was the first to speak up. "What are you doing here?! Go back and stay put! Look at how chaotic it is outside. It''s bad enough that you came out yourself, but now you want to bring all these Fang Family disciples out too?!"


    Fang Chen ignored him and turned to Tong Baizhou. "Did you just say that my ancestor asked me to go and help?"


    Tong Baizhou nodded with a smile. "Yes."


    Around them, some unfamiliar Qi Refining Realm and Foundation Building Realm cultivators had appeared.


    Fang Moshen was taken aback. "My ancestor asked him for help?"


    This waspletely absurd! How could a Qi Refining Realm cultivator contribute to a battle of that scale?


    Fang Chen asked softly, "I find it strange. Why did you specificallye to me? With Grand Qian in such chaos, instead of doing what you should be doing, youe here to find me?"


    "There''s nothing strange about it. I''m here to avenge my third junior brother," said the Heavenly Southern Sect ancestor lightly.


    "Avenge? What avenge?" Fang Mosheng looked at the Heavenly Southern Sect ancestor, a hint of anger in his eyes. "Senior Tong Hu, who is this person? Why have theye to my family seeking revenge?"


    Fang Mosheng was puzzled. <i>You''re here for revenge? Right now?</i>


    Fang Chen suddenly chuckled lightly. "You should have stayed at the Heavenly Southern Sect. I didn¡¯t expect that you woulde all the way here to seek death."


    The Heavenly Southern Sect¡¯s ancestor froze in ce, and he examined Fang Chen carefully as if he had sensed something.


    At that moment, a sh of sword light passed through his body.


    <i>Puchi.</i>


    Tong Hu''s body split in half and fell to the ground. His shattered Golden Core fell from his insides.


    Everyone looked at Fang Chen and the sword in his hand, their eyes bing dull.


    <i>What the hell!</i>


    <i>How... how did Fang Chen just kill a Golden Core Realm cultivator?! Did he kill him with just a single strike?</i>


    Tong Baizhou''s smile froze on his face.


    The Heavenly Southern Sect ancestor stood dumbfounded in ce.


    Fang Mosheng stared at Fang Chen in disbelief while Fang Lingxing subconsciously covered her mouth, her eyes filled with disbelief.


    Fang Shang gasped and almost turned around to run.


    Fang Jue and the others all felt they had all fallen into a dream.


    "Lord Fang... can already effortlessly kill a Golden Core Realm cultivator..." Abbess Zhu Yue murmured softly.


    Fang Qingyao and Abbess Qing He were also left stunned by what they saw. Even the sixth princess was full of disbelief, unable to speak a word.


    <i>What on earth is happening?!</i>


    "Tong Baizhou, your father is already dead. Why don''t you tell us your intentions?" Fang Chen said with a faint smile.

 Chapter 436: How do you know?

    <h4>Chapter 436: How do you know?</h4>


    When Fang Chen drew his sword, the female sword cultivator at the trade conference sensed it.


    Fairy Yu reflexively looked toward the Fang Family¡¯s manor too.


    "I sensed the sword''s aura, Junior Sister," said the female sword cultivator coldly.


    Fairy Yu''s gaze flickered as she spoke in a low voice. "Sister, let''s put aside the matter of the sword for now. These people are trying to kill all of us. Let''s deal with them first!"


    The female sword cultivator looked at the sky and realized that the ce was sealed by a formation. The group of cultivators who appeared out of nowhere seemed intent on massacring Grand Qian.


    Just moments ago, a Golden Core Realm cultivator attacked them, but the female sword cultivator swiftly cut him down. However, immediately after, two mid-stage Golden Core Realm cultivators joined forces to kill her. Although she could defeat them easily, she was afraid of exhausting her strength. If they managed to wear her out, there would be nothing but death left for her.


    "Senior sister, regardless of where these peoplee from, we must help Grand Qian. Helping them is also helping ourselves. If that existence wins against those three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators, both of us will die," Fairy Yu said urgently.


    "Indeed."


    The female sword cultivator''s pupils contracted. She was not afraid of the Golden Core Realm cultivators, but was afraid of that mysterious Nascent Soul Realm cultivator. The fact that he could effortlessly trap three Nascent Soul Realm experts in the ck mist, preventing them from intervening, indicated that she was no match for him.


    Even though her offensive strength was formidable, she was not invincible. With her early Golden Core Realm cultivation, she could at most contend with a grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm, and even then she would struggle.


    The female sword cultivator came to a decision as she immediately swung her sword to strike at a distant Golden Core Realm cultivator. "Let''s deal with the current situation first before looking for where the sword aura came from."


    "There''s a sword cultivator here! Everyone, join forces to kill her!" roared the injured Golden Core Realm cultivator immediately, showing no fear of a sword cultivator''s background.


    The moment she heard that roar, the female sword cultivator understood hat she had crossed paths with people who were crazy enough to throw their lives away to achieve their motives!


    ***


    Tong Baizhou was stunned. He looked at Tong Hu''s corpse and muttered, "My father is dead...."


    Fang Chen smiled. "Yes, your father is dead. What are your nexts?"


    Fang Mosheng looked up at Fang Chen in disbelief, his chest undting.


    <i>Was this kid capable of killing Golden Core Realm cultivators all along? Did he fake his battles against Jue Wudi?</i>


    Fang Mosheng subconsciously shielded Fang Lingxing in front of him because he knew that Fang Lingxing and Fang Chen were at odds. "Who is he exactly?! What cultivation level does he have?!"


    "Why... Did you kill my father?" Tong Baizhou looked at Fang Chen, his eyes reddening with tears rolling, but a forced smile appeared on his face, seemingly unwilling to back down.


    "Because you Spirit Blood Sect¡¯s scum... deserve to die," Fang Chen answered softly.


    Spirit Blood Sect?!


    Whether it was the Fang Family disciples or Daoist Ya¡¯s group, hearing these three words sent shivers down their spines. In an instant, they understood!


    The Golden Core Realm cultivators hadn¡¯t gone insane, they were from the Spirit Blood Sect!


    "Why do you know?! Why?" asked Tong Baizhou in despair. "Please don''t let me die clueless. Tell me, please!"


    "Yes, tell him!" Fang Shang anxiously urged.


    Tong Baizhou was doomed, but he wasn''t going to go down without trying! He was confident he hadn''t revealed anything suspicious. If he could understand how Fang Chen knew they were from the Spirit Blood Sect, it would be a great achievement for the sect!


    "I won''t tell you. You can go ask around in the afterlife," said Fang Chen, smiling.


    A golden de descended from the sky, mercilessly turning Tong Baizhou into minced meat.


    The sudden appearance of the golden armored warrior made everyone look at him with awe.


    "Run!"


    The ancestor of the Heavenly Southern Sect didn''t dare to stay any longer. The fact that Fang Chen knew that he was from the Heavenly Southern Sect was already a huge problem!


    Unfortunately, just as he turned around, another sh of sword light struck.


    The ancestor of the Heavenly Southern Sect slowly turned back to face Fang Chen with a heavy gaze. "Who are you exactly?"


    "Ancestor, your body...!" Yu Yuefan suddenly eximed in fear.


    Even though the ancestor had turned to look at Fang Chen, his lower half was facing the same direction he had been running off to! There was now an extra line that was drawn in blood around his waist!


    Fang Chen didn''t answer, and the golden armored warrior dispatched the ancestor with a few swift strikes.


    "Don''t kill me, I don''t know anything! I haven''t joined the Spirit Blood Sect!" Yu Yuefan begged for mercy, but the armored warrior''s de shed and killed him on the spot.


    He would have never imagined that his own ancestor would bring him all the way here just to meet his end.


    Fang Mosheng nced at the corpses on the ground and asked hurriedly, "F-Fang Chen, are they really from the Spirit Blood Sect? So everything that happened today is because the Spirit Blood Sect is targeting Grand Qian?!"


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "Yes, the Spirit Blood Sect ns to use Grand Qian as a catalyst, turning the Hidden Cloud Region into a pill furnace, with all living beings as spiritual materials to refine the Blood Spirit Pill."


    Fang Mosheng clenched his fists and shouted in anger, "Those lunatics!"


    Fang Shang finally couldn''t hold back and asked, "How do you know all this?!"


    Fang Chen smiled faintly at Fang Shang. "Why should I tell you? You¡¯re one of their underlings."


    Fang Jue and the others were stunned.


    "What?! He''s also from the Spirit Blood Sect?!"


    Fang Mosheng jerked his head toward Fang Shang, immediately pulling Fang Lingxing and keeping a distance away from him.


    Fang Shang forced a smile and said, "What are you saying? How could I be a cultivator from the Spirit Blood Sect? I''m Fang Shang, the second son of the Fang Family."


    Fang Chen smiled. "Jue Wudi is a cultivator from the Spirit Blood Sect, and so are you. I vaguely remember the words you exchanged with Tong Baizhou in the Jade River Pavilion. Are you going to help yourself, or should I send you on your way?"


    Fang Shang suddenly felt horrified. "H-How could y-you"


    <i>How does he know all this?! Could it be... he knew everything from the start, and I have just been making a fool out of myself?</i>


    <i>Pfft!</i>


    Before Fang Shang could figure it out, he suddenly felt a chill on his forehead, and a flying sword had pierced through his head. He saw a cold figure staring at him with icy eyes.


    Fang Shang chuckled bitterly. He uttered his final words. "You will alle down to apany me. The Hidden Cloud Region... is falling into chaos...."


    Fang Shang died, and his words before death were enough to prove that he was a member of the Spirit Blood Sect.


    Fang Jue and the others felt that everything was unbelievable. The rumored Spirit Blood was had been so close to them!


    "Why did he join that sect?" muttered a Fang Family disciple.


    Fang Chen coldly answered, "Because the Spirit Blood Sect is good at manipting people''s hearts. Even if one is cultivating immortality, if their mind is not firm, then it''s useless."


    With that, he looked at Xia Ji and the others. "The Spirit Blood Sect''s target this time is not just the three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators and the various Golden Core Realm cultivators. They want to turn all the living beings into pills. If you are willing, you can contribute no matter your cultivation level."


    The hearts of the crowd sank slightly, their faces showing an unparalleled seriousness.


    It seems that there will be a bloody battle today!

 Chapter 437: Falling into A Disadvantage

    Chapter 437: Falling into A Disadvantage


    "These scoundrels are all Spirit Blood Sect cultivators! Everyone, don''t hide or run anymore. If we don''t kill them, we''ll all be turned into pills!"


    "Kill them! Killing them is the only way to survive!"


    "Die, scum!"


    The Fang Family¡¯s disciples charged through the streets, and with their roars, the bewildered onlookers finally snapped out of their daze.


    Spirit Blood Sect?! The Spirit Blood Sect wants to turn them into pills?!


    The various cultivators who had originally nned to stay out of trouble and observe the situation showed expressions of shock and anger. They took out their treasures and rushed toward the nearest enemies.


    "Dad, you said you could see Fortune Qi. Take a look, where is it? Perhaps your old eyes are failing you?"Li Daoye teased as he fought alongside Big Eyed Li and Elder Mingjing.


    "Shut up! If I can''t get out of here today, you''ll die here too. Crush these scoundrels for me!" Big Eyed Li shouted angrily as he shed his sword at a Qi Refining Realm cultivator who was attempting to sneak attack him.


    "Damn it, my eyes really are failing me. Where is the great fortune here? Let''s go find big brother and fourth brother. It''s always safer around them!""I can''t avoid disaster after all. Facing off against the Spirit Blood Sect..." Elder Mingjing muttered to himself as he fought. Eventually, he clenched his, his eyes turning red. Not fighting meant that his fate was sealed, but fighting gave them a chance at survival!


    He refused to believe that the Spirit Blood Sect could keep Grand Qian trapped for long. There would surely be Nascent Soul Realm experts who would learn of this ande to intervene!


    By now, the hunting ground was already stained red with blood.


    Cultivators of various realms that ranged from Qi Refining Realms to Golden Core Realms continued to battle it out relentlessly. In the midst of fighting, some of the Golden Core Realm cultivators uncovered their identities as Spirit Blood Sect cultivators.


    Without surprise, they were the people nted by Immortal Void Rush. However, the situation tipped and became one-sided, making it difficult for everyone to distinguish friend from foe. There were people who even killed their ownpanions in the heat of battle.


    Immortal Tianwu suffered heavy injuries that way and took shelter behind Fang Tingjian and others to heal. Even so, Fang Tingjian and the others didn''tpletely leave their backs to him. While protecting him, they could only rely on him to use his skills to fend off the asional flying swords that came their way.


    That was one of the advantages of Spirit Blood Sect cultivators; they didn''t have to worry about attacks from their own allies, which left the other cultivators somewhat at a loss.


    As Golden Core Realm cultivators and Foundation Building Realm cultivators fell one after another, Fang Tingjian and the others were forced into a corner. Among the Golden Core Realm cultivators on their side who were still alive, there were barely over twenty left, while there were around fifty to sixty left on the Spirit Blood Sect''s side.


    In that onught, the Spirit Blood Sect hadpletely gained the upper hand with negligible casualties!


    "Everyone, if we continue like this, we''ll all be finished," said Grand Qian Empire¡¯s ancestor as he stared gravely at the Spirit Blood Sect¡¯s Golden Core Realm cultivators who were closing in step by step.


    "Daoist Qian, do you have a n? Doesn''t the Grand Qian¡¯s Imperial City have defensive formations? Why not activate them to resist the enemy?" asked a Golden Core Realm cultivator.


    Qian Wuji bitterly smiled and said, "I tried activating the defensive formation earlier but found that it had already malfunctioned. It seems that the formation''s core has been taken away."


    "Damn Spirit Blood Sect, they really have infiltrated every crack and crevice. This time, they are fully prepared to not only kill us but also those Nascent Soul Realm cultivators!"


    "Once that happens, the entire Grand Qian¡¯s Imperial City will be turned into a giant furnace, and we will be their fuel!"


    The crowd fell silent, their expressions revealing a hint of fear. Even Golden Core Realm cultivators were afraid of death! If they weren''t, why would they cultivate immortality?


    Princess Shenlong''s eyes shed with determination. "Uncle, let''s fight them to the death!"


    "Even though they have two grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm cultivators on their side, it won''t be easy for them to suppress us in a short amount of time."


    Wu Tianji sighed inwardly. "It''s our only choice now. I hope those three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators cane help soon. If they are defeated, today may very well be our end."


    Their words made the Foundation Building Realm cultivators behind them turn extremely pale. Fang Ao and his wife were also among them and were searching anxiously for Fang Yun. When they discovered that she wasn¡¯t nearby, they let out a sigh of relief inside.


    ***


    "Junior brother, are you alright?"


    Yan Ruyue crouched beside Zhang Xiaoke. When she that Zhang Xiaoke''s face was pale and that he was vomiting blood continuously, she instinctively looked toward the woman dressed as a peasant.


    Unfortunately, the woman dressed as a peasant woman was busy at the moment as she was locked inbat with the Foundation Building Realm cultivator who had just inflicted serious injuries on Zhang Xiaoke.


    "Sister, don''t worry... I-I won''t die. With the lord here, we''ll be fine soon," Zhang Xiaoke said as he forced a smile.


    "Given the situation... I''m afraid even your lord may not be able to turn the tide," said Yan Ruyue, her voice trembling slightly. She had never seen such a chaotic scene before.


    With Nascent Souls Realm cultivators trapped and Golden Core Realm cultivators under sudden attack, what was once an orderly imperial city had turned into a battleground. Spirit Blood Sect cultivators continuouslyunched surprise attacks, causing widespread ughter¡­.


    Just then, both of them heard a muffled groaning from the woman dressed as a peasant. She had taken a few steps back, retreating to their side. A new figure had appeared in front of her. That person was also at the Foundation Building Realm and had just joined forces with another cultivator to severely injure her.


    The woman dressed as a peasant stared fiercely at the two Foundation Building Realm cultivators. "We have no grudge or enmity, so why must you be so ruthless!"


    The two of them chuckled lightly as a hint of mockery appeared on their faces. "me yourselves foring here."


    As they were about to make their move, the seemingly quiet old mother hen in the woman dressed as a peasant woman''s hands suddenly let out a phoenix cry. A burst of golden light erupted from the old hen''s body, transforming into a giant Fire Phoenix several dozen feet long. It charged toward the two Foundation Building Realm cultivators.


    ¡°Peak second-rank Spirit Beast?¡±


    The two Foundation Building Realm cultivators were slightly taken aback, their expressions bing extremely serious.


    Peak second-rank spirit beasts corresponded to the grandpletion stage of the Foundation Building Realm. They didn''t expect the spirit beast in her hands to be of such high rank!


    The woman dressed as a peasant woman reminded, "Sect Leader, you should be more careful. Once we kill these two, we should retreat. We must not linger in battle!"


    Yan Ruyue and Zhang Xiaoke were dumbfounded.


    "Sect Leader?!"


    <em>Could it be true? Was this old mother hen the sect leader of the Spirit Beast Valley? </em>


    The aura emanating from the Fire Phoenix was terrifying, and the two Foundation Building Realm cultivators realized at once nce that they were no match for it, and intended to escape first before reconsidering their options.


    A sh of sword light struck the Fire Phoenix unexpectedly, and in an instant, the phoenix let out a mournful cry as its right wing was severed. It tumbled from the sky and transformed back into the appearance of an old hen, looking rather battered.


    The person who arrived was a Golden Core Realm cultivator. Seeing the situation, the two Spirit Blood Sect Foundation Building Realm cultivators grew excited.


    The Gold Core Realm cultivator spoke indifferently."The hunting ground is ready. You all, cooperate with us next and start the pill-refining process."


    He then shifted his gaze to the woman dressed as a peasant woman.


    The two Spirit Blood Sect Foundation Building Realm cultivators were ecstatic.


    "A Golden Core Realm cultivator from our sect is ready to act! Excellent! Today''s situation is set!"


    With the cooperation of a Golden Core Realm cultivator, they could easily refine the entire imperial city within a day!


    That thought had just emerged when suddenly another sh of sword light arrived. The Golden Core Realm cultivator didn''t even have time to turn around before he was split in half by the sword light.

 Chapter 438: No Chance of Winning

    Chapter 438: No Chance of Winning


    A hint of fatigue appeared on Fang Chen''s face. Earlier, in order to ensure that he couldpletely kill both Tong Hu and the ancestor of the Heavenly Southern Sect, he had used the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture twice. Adding this strike, he had used it a total of three times.


    Fortunately, now that he had immortal sword veins to act as his foundation, he no longer consumed his lifespan as easily as before. If he only used the first form, he didn''t have to worry about any problems.


    The two Foundation Building Realm cultivators were stunned as they did not expect their Golden Core Realm cultivator to be killed by someone with just one sword. When they finally regained their senses, they suddenly realized that the person had disappeared.


    <em>Puff, puff¡­.</em>


    Fang Chen emerged from the shadows, ending the lives of the two Foundation Building Realm cultivators with one strike each.


    The peasant woman looked shocked. "Lord Fang!?"


    Yan Ruyue and Zhang Xiaoke were dumbfounded.


    Only Zhang Xiaoke wore a smile that said: "This is how it should be."


    Yan Ruyue took in a sharp breath. Her eyes were full of doubt. "He just... killed a Golden Core Realm cultivator!?""Elder Su, the situation in the imperial city is very dangerous now. If you have any trump cards, use them now. Don''t wait until it''s toote."


    Fang Chen looked at the old hen, which had one of its wings broken, then turned and headed toward the hunting grounds. The Golden Core Realm cultivators over there couldn''t hold on any longer, and if the Golden Core Realm cultivators from the Spirit Blood Sect were allowed to intervene, no one would be able to stop theplete refining of the entire imperial city.


    The peasant immediately hugged the old hen into her arms and then led Yan Ruyue and Zhang Xiaoke to follow Fang Chen.


    "Master, he''s heading in that direction!" said Yan Ruyue, frightened.


    ¡°He must have his reasons. If we want to survive this, we can only follow him," whispered the peasant woman.


    Zhang Xiaoke nodded with a smile. "Yes, we will be safe if we follow him. "


    ***


    A flying sword suddenly shot out from the shadows, killing the Foundation Building Realm cultivator who was besieging Li Daoye and hispanions.


    Lida Yanjing was overjoyed. "Fourth Brother, you''re just in time!"


    Nong Guiquan emerged from the shadows, looking solemnly toward the direction of the hunting grounds.


    "It seems like Big Brother is over there."


    "Then we should head to the outer city!"


    Without hesitation, Big-Eyed Li pulled Li Daoye and Elder Mingjing to run in the opposite direction.


    Nong Guiquan was furious. "Second Brother, shouldn''t we go rescue Big Brother?"


    "Fourth Brother, you don''t know how the situation is over there! Even without using the Fortune Observation Technique, I can confirm that it''s a dead end. We won''t survive if we go!" Big-Eyed Li persuaded. "Come with me first. Big Brother has many tricks up his sleeve. Maybe he won''t die so easily. For the time being, we need to keep ourselves safe."


    "No, I want to stay and kill the Spirit Blood Sect cultivators. There are more cultivators on that side of the hunting grounds." Nong Guiquan shook his head. "If you want to leave, go ahead."


    "Fourth Brother, when did you be like this!? The Spirit Blood Sect isn''t easy to mess with. Why do you want to stay and kill them!?" eximed Big-Eyed Li.


    He, however, couldn''t help but see Nong Guiquan in a new light, and a hint of admiration appeared in his eyes.


    "Fourth Brother, you also care about the people of the world. I admire you a lot. I''ll definitely set up a shrine for you in the Eight Trigram Sect in the future!"


    Nong Guiquan nced at him and said lightly, "Someone told me that if I kill a Spirit Blood Sect¡¯s Qi Refining Realm cultivator, I''ll get two hundred low-grade spirit stones. If I kill a Spirit Blood Sect¡¯s Foundation Building Realm cultivator, I''ll get one thousand low-grade spirit stones. I have to earn this money!"


    With that, Nong Guiquan cut off the head of the Foundation Building Realm cultivator who had just died and threw it into his storage ring. Then he melted back into the shadows and disappeared.


    "A Qi Refining Realm for two hundred spirit stones? A Foundation Building Realm for one thousand spirit stones? I knew it, he wouldn¡¯t have done this otherwise!" Big-Eyed Li muttered. "This business... I want in on it too!"


    Suddenly, Elder Mingjing looked at Li Daoye and asked, "Young Sect Leader, what are you doing?"


    Invisible white energy circted around Li Daoye and flowed into his body through his seven orifices. After a while, Li Daoye opened his eyes, his hair turning a bit whiter.


    "Let''s go to the hunting grounds," Li Daoyi eximed with joy. "Our way out is over there. If we survive this, everyone will benefit!"


    Big-Eyed Li went mad. "Are you crazy!?"


    "Sect leader, the young sect master¡¯s Divination Technique seems to be more powerful than your Fortune Qi Technique. Perhaps, we should listen to him," Elder Mingjing suggested.


    Lida Yanjing clenched his teeth. "Fine, we''ll listen to him this time. If things go south, we''ll escape immediately. "


    ***


    Fang Chen arrived at the hunting grounds where the situation was extremely disadvantageous. It was clear that Fang Tingjian and his group were being suppressed and were finding it difficult to fight back.


    The number of Spirit Blood Sect''s Foundation Building Realm and Qi Refining Realm cultivators had been increasing. They had probably sent reinforcements after they failed to assassinate Dongfang Haojie a few days ago. They were presumably here to aid in the refining of the imperial city.


    Suddenly, Fang Wanli let out a roar. "Qian Wuji, you old turtle, are you also from Spirit Blood Sect!?"


    Fang Tingjian came down from the sky andnded near Fang Chen. He had an injury that pierced through him, exposing his internal organs, which were ruptured and bleeding.


    The person whounched the surprise attack was none other than Qian Wuji, who had previously teamed up with Fang Tingjian to deal with the Spirit Blood Sect''s Golden Core Realm cultivator.


    Immortal Tianwu and the others were stunned as they never expected Qian Wuji to betray them at this crucial moment.


    Jiang Shun''s face turned grim. "I shouldn''t havee here this time, damn it!"


    Under his protection, Sui Nianhua and the others were unharmed. Sui Nianhua''s illusion technique even proved useful at this moment.


    Princess Shenlong was shocked and furious as she stared at Qian Wuji with a mix of horror, confusion, and bewilderment. "Uncle!?"


    Qian Wuji looked down upon Princess Shenlong and the others. "Since you call me Uncle, I''ll ask you, do you want to join the Spirit Blood Sect?"


    At that moment, the Golden Core Realm cultivators from Spirit Blood Sect arrived by his side. Including him, the Spirit Blood Sect now had three cultivators in the grandpletion stage of the Golden Core Realm, seven to eight in thete stages, over ten in the mid stages, and dozens in the early stages. The Spirit Blood Sect''s strengthpletely overwhelmed everyone.


    "Uncle, the Great Qian is our homnd. How could you join the Spirit Blood Sect and ughter your own people!?" said Princess Shenlong hoarsely.


    Qian Wuji said indifferently, "During the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions, I couldn''t make it through, but I didn''t want to die. I wanted to advance to the Nascent Soul Realm. Joining the Spirit Blood Sect was the best choice for me. I will have the qualification to advance to the Nascent Soul Realm after today. By then, not to mention a mere Great Qian Empire, I can easily create ten Great Qian Empires again!"


    The princes and princesses present were all stunned. They never expected their ancestor to have such ns.


    "Ancestor, I''m willing to join Spirit Blood Sect!" Qian Feng suddenly shouted hoarsely. Due to his shout, the Spirit Blood Sect cultivators who were attacking him paused for a moment. Many princes and princesses followed suit, expressing their willingness to join the Spirit Blood Sect.


    However, Qian Wuji nced at him and said lightly, "What qualifications do you have?"


    Qian Feng, who thought he had caught a lifeline, almost fainted on the spot when he heard those words.


    Qian Wuji then nced at Qian Feng with disdain before looking at Princess Shenlong.


    "Only you have the chance to join. If you join the Spirit Bood Sect, I can plead for leniency for you with the higher-ups. As for the others, they will all be refined into pills. You guys stand no chance of winning."

 Chapter 439: The Might of the Lantern

    <h4>Chapter 439: The Might of the Lantern</h4>


    <i>Is there no chance of winning?</i>


    The words of Qian Wuji, along with his current betrayal, plunged all the cultivators present into silence. Considering the terrifying rumors about the Spirit Blood Sect, coupled with the current situation, everyone gradually started feeling afraid.


    The only Golden Core Realm cultivator on their side was Fang Tingjian, and he had also been heavily injured. Whereas the three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators were shrouded in the ck mist, their plight unknown.


    <i>How much longer can the Great Qian Empire hold on?</i>


    "Uncle, I won''t join the Spirit Blood Sect," Princess Shenlong said softly, her eyes turning red-rimmed. "I hope you consider this carefully. If you get entangled in today''s karma, your path to immortality may be difficult in the future."


    Qian Wuji sneered. "What does karma matter when our lives are at stake? Besides, the Spirit Blood Sect fears karma the least. If Heaven denies us, then we shall be Heaven itself. The Blood Spirit Pill can break through all bottlenecks! Too bad for you, you''ve missed yourst chance."


    In the next moment, he waved his sleeve and a shing green sword aura shot straight toward Fang Tingjian. Fang Wanli and the others wanted to rescue him, but there was still a considerable distance between them, and a group of Golden Core Realm cultivators was watching them closely. Anypse would lead to a certain death!


    Just as the sword was about to strike Fang Tingjian, a green light radiated from Fang Chen''s body.


    The flying sword encountered a green light and was instantly blocked, unable to advance even a single inch!


    Everyone was shocked.


    <i>Who was it!? They could actually block Qian Wuji''s flying sword!? That was a cultivator at the grandpletion stage of the Golden Core Realm!</i>


    As they looked over, they saw Fang Chen holding the Dragon Bone Heaven Lantern, slowly walking to Fang Tingjian''s side. That green light came from the ancient greenntern in his hand.


    The Mirror of the Universe had not bragged for nothing. The Dragon Bone Heaven Lantern was indeed extremely useful. To Fang Chen, it didn''t even consume that much spiritual energy, and activating the Dragon Bone Heaven Lantern posed no problem.


    The only loss was themp oil at its core!


    Fang Wanli was dumbfounded. "Is that Fang Chen!?"


    <i>Isn¡¯t that Jue Wudi¡¯sntern? How can it be this strong in Fang Chen''s hand?</i>


    Fang Tingjian turned his head to look at Fang Chen, his eyes showing a hint of sternness. "Why are you here? Quickly leave this ce and find a chance to live on!"


    Fang Chen smiled lightly. "Ancestor, today we are like grasshoppers on a rope. If you can''t survive, neither can we."


    Another grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm cultivator snorted unhappily. "Qian Wuji, did you go easy on him?"


    The Golden Core Realm cultivator lightly waved his sleeve, and the energy of the five elements surged wildly, transforming into various beasts and weapons that attacked the green light fiercely.


    Unfortunately, his methods couldn''t even put a dent on the green light.


    That grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm cultivator was slightly surprised, his eyes suddenly revealing a hint of greed. "What kind of treasure is that!? How can a mere Qi Refining Realm cultivator like him use it to resist our methods?"


    ¡°You can''t protect Fang Tingjian forever.¡± Qian Wuji looked deeply at Fang Chen. "Kill, kill all the Golden Core Realm cultivators here, the overall situation is set!"


    Fang Chen transmitted through voice transmission, "<i>Ancestor Wanli,e here with your people.</i>"


    Fang Wanli''s eyes lit up and immediately led Fang Ao and the others toward Fang Chen. Some Golden Core Realm cultivators tried to stop them, but Fang Wanli, taking the risk of being severely injured, resolutely maintained his speed and finally arrived safely by Fang Chen''s side.


    "That was close!" said Fang Wanli, letting out a sigh of relief. He took a few sips from his gourd and then sprayed the wine toward the Golden Core Realm cultivators outside. The wine turned into thousands of wine swords, shooting fiercely like lightning.


    Those Golden Core Realm cultivators were caught off guard, and they cut sorry figures. They counterattacked instinctively, but their methods were intercepted by the Dragon Bone Heaven Lantern.


    Fang Wanli suddenly looked in a certain direction. "Not good, Immortal Tianwu is in danger."


    Fang Chen''s thoughts shifted, and the green light of the Dragon Bone Heaven Lantern suddenly extended in all directions, enveloping countless Golden Core Realm cultivators, Foundation Building, and Qi Refining Realm cultivators in the hunting ground. That included Immortal Tianwu, who was almost killed by Nie Tianyuan.


    Fang Chen said softly, "Pleasee over here, everyone."


    Fang Chen couldn¡¯t maintain that state for too long. He clearly noticed that therger the area the Dragon Bone Heaven Lantern illuminated, the moremp oil it consumed. Fortunately, Dongfang Haojie was not dead and was now also within the protective range of the Dragon Bone Heaven Lantern.


    Qian Wuji and the others didn''t expect such a scene. In just a moment, the cultivators who were about to die in their hands were now protected by the Dragon Bone Heaven Lantern.


    In the end, Fang Chen controlled the range of the Dragon Bone Heaven Lantern to about ten meters in diameter. He made it so that it was just enough for thousands of people, it was just enough not to be too crowded. He wanted everyone to keep a safe distance from one another, after all, it was unknown if there were still any Spirit Blood Sect cultivators hidden amongst them. However, as long as he kept Qian Wuji and the others outside, it would be fine.


    Dongfang Haojie pulled Fairy Tianyin closer to Fang Chen''s side. "Please make way."


    When he approached Fang Chen, he immediately breathed a sigh of relief and said, "Thank you for helping us just now. Fairy Tianyin and I were almost in a dire situation."


    Fairy Tianyin didn''t say anything. Her mind was too upied to talk to Dongfang Haojie now. She was worried about Immortal Void Rush.


    "<i>No need to thank me. Thisntern oil won''tst long. I''ll have to rely on you next,</i>" Fang Chen conveyed through voice transmission.


    Dongfang Haojie looked at Fang Chen in astonishment. "What! It''s you!?"


    Dongfang Haojie wasn''t foolish enough to speak out in the open, and he transmitted his voice instead. "Is thisntern using my blood essence as oil?"


    "Yes, but it won''tst long. With this range, it''ll run out in another two or four hours."


    If he only used it to protect three to five people,sting a day and night would be no problem, but the consumption of the oilmp had intensified due to increasing the range.


    Dongfang Haohao''s lips turned pale. "Two or four hours? Damn it, you''ve already taken twenty drops of my blood essence. I can''t squeeze out much more."


    Fang Chen transmitted, "How much more can you squeeze out? Squeeze out as many as you can. Do you want to die here? Just hold on until those three Nascent Soul Realme and help us."


    Dongfang Haojie clenched his teeth. "At most, ten drops more. Anything beyond that and I''d start to lose lifespan!"


    <i>Ten drops? </i>


    Fang Chen sighed lightly to himself. That was better than nothing; at least they could hold on a little longer. Besides, the current situation might still be salvageable.


    Although Fang Tingjian was injured, the other Golden Core weren¡¯t in good shape either and were far from their prime condition. However, that female sword cultivator seemed unharmed. If they joined forces, they might be able to defeat a grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm.


    Currently, she and Fairy Yu were also within the protection range of the Dragon Bone Heaven Lantern, albeit standing a bit farther away. They were observing Fang Chen with doubtful eyes.


    "Fang Tingjian, how are your injuries? Your disciple''sntern probably won''t hold out for much longer. If you can''t make a move, we might as well just wait here for death," Jiang Shun asked with a grim expression.


    All eyes turned to Fang Tingjian, but before he could respond, Qian Wuji, who was outside the green light sneered. "His injuries won''t heal anytime soon. Instead of waiting for death, why don''t youe out and fight us? There might still be a chance to survive."

 Chapter 440: Help Me Block Them!

    <h4>Chapter 440: Help Me Block Them!</h4>


    Fang Chen said lightly, "Going out means death. It''s better to wait for the three Nascent Soul Realm experts to free up their hands. If you have spare time, focus on restoring your strength. There''s no need to listen to the nonsense of these Spirit Blood Sect scums."


    The cultivators who were initially affected by Qian Wuji''s words closed their eyes and began meditating to recover their strength.


    Jiang Shun''s expression turned gloomy. "This youngster has the potential to be a great general."


    Even though he was relying on a treasure, it was quite admirable to be able to save everyone in such a situation. Moreover, he showed no fear in both speech and demeanor and looked veryposed instead. Why was it that both Fang Tingyuan and his descendant possessed such talent?


    Qian Wuju''s expression didn''t change when he heard Fang Chen call him a scum. He simply said, "If the Kunlong Battle General took care of the three Nascent Soul Realm experts and finds that we haven''t yet refined Great Qian, I''m afraid he will be very displeased."


    "Attack, break thisntern, and kill these cultivators. No one within the Great Qian Empire will be able to stop our progress!"


    The next moment, Qian Wuji and the other two Golden Core Realm cultivators made their moves. They were not the only ones who attacked, as even those in the Foundation Building and Qi Refining Realm joined in to break the Dragon Bone Heavenly Lantern.


    Under such a fierce attack, even the powerful Dragon Bone Heavenly Lantern couldn''t help but start to fluctuate slightly, and its green light began to flicker.


    The consumption of thentern oil intensified once again!


    Fear appeared in the eyes of everyone inside. They weren''t sure how much longer the Dragon Bone Heavenly Lantern could hold out.


    Fang Chen spoke again. "Everyone, restore your strength as quickly as possible. Once they exhaust their energy, I will recall thentern, and you will be responsible for eliminating these Spirit Blood Sect scums."


    As soon as he finished speaking, the attacks from the Golden Core Realm cultivators outside slightly slowed down, indicating a visible decrease in their energy.


    "The lord probably can''t hold on much longer, or else he wouldn''t deliberately say such words to make those Spirit Blood Sect cultivators ease their attacks," Fairy Yu deduced.


    "<i>Dongfang Haojie, refine thisntern</i>," Fang Chen transmitted.


    Dongfang Haojie was slightly surprised. "Me?"


    "Yes," replied Fang Chen. "I can be one hundred percent sure that you are not a Spirit Blood Sect cultivator, so I trust you with thisntern."


    Dongfang Haojie asked, "But... if you give me thisntern... what are you going to do?"


    "Of course, I''m going to kill people. How long do you think we can hold on? The three Nascent Soul Realm experts are trapped by Kunlong Battle General, and that spells trouble. Qian Wuji and the others are eyeing us fiercely, but those are secondary issues. I can''t do anything about Kunlong Battle General trapping the Nascent Soul experts, which is the main issue, but I can do something about these secondary issues," replied Fang Chen.


    Suddenly, Dongfang Haojie remembered Fang Chen''s incredible evasive technique and his incredible knowledge of things rted to the Spirit Blood Sect. Even the warning about their plot against himself came from Fang Chen.


    With these thoughts in mind, Dongfang Haojie felt a glimmer of hope. "Honestly, are you a Nascent Soul Realm senior?"


    Fang Chen replied, "Me? I''m only at the twelfth stage of Qi Refining Realm. You have my word on this."


    Dongfang Haojie''s hope was shatteredpletely.


    <i>At the twelfth stage of Qi Refining Realm, what could Fang Chen do?</i>


    "Don''t just stand there, start refining the Dragon Bone Heavenly Lantern immediately. I''ll assist you."


    "Alright!"


    The onlookers then saw Dongfang Haojie walk up to Fang Chen and take away the Dragon Bone Heavenly Lantern from him, his spiritual energy surging.


    ¡°What is he trying to do!?¡± a Golden Core Realm cultivator shouted angrily. Just as he was about to intervene, Fang Chen spoke up. "The Dragon Bone Heavenly Lantern will achieve its maximum effect in his hands, don''t panic."


    Everyone looked at each other in confusion.


    With Fang Chen''s assistance, Dongfang Haojie refined the Dragon Bone Heavenly Lantern in no time.


    Qian Wuji and the others watched this scene with a hint of puzzlement.


    Why would they entrust this item to Dongfang Haojie, a yboy from the Dongfang Family?


    "<i>With your blood essence as thentern oil, the consumption of spiritual energy by the Dragon Bone Heavenly Lantern won''t be significant. If the oil runs out, remember to replenish it</i>," Fang Chen transmitted.


    "<i>Damn it, I''ll just gamble with my lifespan,</i>" Dongfang Haojie said as he held the Dragon Bone Heavenly Lantern with a fierce look in his eyes.


    Fang Chen''s divine soul left his body and stood in the void.


    Outside, the four Nascent Soul Realm Battle Generals still held the red stone stele, imprisoning the entire Great Qian Imperial Capital.


    In the ck mist, Immortal Void Rush, Immortal White Tiger, and Supreme Expert Dragon Wood sat on the ground. Immortal White Tiger and Supreme Expert Dragon Wood were sitting behind Immortal Void Rush, their hands ced on her back.


    A terrifying force was brewing between the two sides, sometimes pushing toward Immortal Void Rush, sometimes toward the figure in the ck robe.


    Fang Chen furrowed his brow. "Is this person the Kunlong Battle General?"


    It was clear that the four were in some kind of deadlock, and the Kunlong Battle General was indeed formidable enough to be able to hold his ground against the three of them alone.


    ¡°It seems like they''ve reached a kind of bnce, but the surrounding ck mist harbors danger. Even Golden Core Realm cultivators venturing in might have to pay the price,¡± remarked Fang Chen.


    "We can only wait for one of the three toe out victorious. But before that, I can do one thing."


    Returning to his body, Fang Chen called over the Fang Family disciples and then sat down, letting them surround him tightly to obscure outsiders'' vision.


    "What is this kid up to?" a Golden Core Realm cultivator frowned.


    "Don''t worry about it. He''s just a minor character. Let''s not waste time here. Some of us should go and cooperate with the Spirit Blood Sect cultivators to refine this ce," suggested someone.


    The three grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm cultivators from Qian Wuji''s group nodded lightly, and several early stage Nascent Soul Realm cultivators quickly left the hunting ground.


    Fang Wanli gnashed his teeth in frustration. "They''re going to kill people, but it''s a pity we can''t go out!"


    He didn''t notice the astonishment in the eyes of the Fang Family disciples surrounding Fang Chen, but they quickly regained theirposure.


    Li Daoye''s eyes lit up. "We''re almost at the hunting ground."


    He looked cautious as he scanned around with his peripheral vision, afraid of being ambushed.


    ***


    Suddenly, a figure broke through the air from the direction of the hunting ground. "Oh, you three aren''t hiding but came here instead. Are you looking to take advantage of the chaos?"


    Upon seeing Li Daoye and the others, the figure immediately stopped and looked at them with a smile. Before the three could react, the figure casually raised their sleeve, and a terrifying flying sword attacked them directly.


    Li Daoye was stunned. "This aura! It''s a Golden Core Realm!"


    Given their cultivation levels, they simply couldn''t withstand the attacks of a Golden Core Realm cultivator. Could he have failed in his calction?! Is there hope for them?


    "My son is in trouble!" Big Eyed Li shouted angrily. He grabbed Li Daoye and threw him behind, and at the same time, he grabbed Elder Mingjing to shield himself.


    "Mingjing, help me block this. After you die, I''ll build a memorial for you!"


    "Damn it!" Elder Mingjing cursed, unable to do anything but watch as the flying sword attacked him.


    However, the flying sword that was iing fiercely suddenly lost control and plunged into the ground between Elder Mingjing¡¯s legs. He felt a chill and immediately looked in the distance.


    He saw an extra figure behind the Golden Core Realm cultivator. That figure held a long sword that pierced through that cultivator''s head, right from his chin to the top of his head!


    Fang Chen collected the cultivator''s storage ring and took his high-grade, yellow-rank flying sword before looking at the three dumbfounded individuals.


    "The hunting ground is very dangerous, and lives can be lost at any moment. If you want to survive, it''s better to go to the outer city. The Spirit Blood Sect cultivators there generally have lower cultivation levels and are mostly in the Qi Refining Realm and Foundation Building Realm. Their Golden Core Realm experts are being kept busy within the inner capital and don''t have the time to spare. By the way, Nong Guiquan is also in the outer capital right now."

 Chapter 441: Urgent

    Chapter 441: Urgent


    Li Daoye was full of shock. "Lord Fang can actually kill a Golden Core Realm cultivator?"


    Li Da Yanjing and Elder Mingjing were familiar with Fang Chen and knew his background. Now, they could finally confirm Lord Tiger''s words. This young man had an extraordinary background and likely had a Nascent Soul Realm expert behind him!


    "Lord Fang, if you want us to go to the outer capital, we''ll go there!" Li Daoye didn''t hesitate and flew toward the direction of the outer capital.


    "Thank you for your help. Please take care of yourself too!" Big Eyed Li sped his fist and followed Elder Mingjing as they chased after Li Daoye.


    Soon, he caught up with Li Daoye and scolded him harshly, "Didn''t you say there was a chance of survival in the direction of the hunting ground?"


    "Yes, didn''t we meet Lord Fang?! If it weren''t for Lord Fang, you and I would have died at the hands of that cultivator. Elder Mingjing could only block one sword at most!" Li Daoye said casually.


    Big Eyed Li''s expression froze as he looked at Elder Mingjing, who was quietly looking at him. He felt embarrassed and hurriedly exined, "It was a critical moment just now, don''t mind me. I will only use you to block one sword at most, absolutely not a second one."


    Elder Mingjing said quietly, "Sect Leader, I can''t block a second strike for sure. In the future, if you need someone to block swords, find someone else. I think the young master has thick skin and strong bones...."


    ***Fang Chen walked in the shadows and reaped one life after the other like a death god. Wherever he went, cultivators would fall with a single strike as long as they were under the Golden Core Realm.


    During this time, he didn''t stash any of the treasures he found but directly gave them to Little Sword. Little Sword was not picky and epted treasures of all grades without discrimination.


    Coupled with the Shadow Buddha Technique, Fang Chen didn''t even use much spiritual energy when killing. Using this method, he had already cleared out five Golden Core Realm experts who had been moving and reaping lives in the inner capital.


    The Spirit Blood Sect only became aware of their situation when he encountered the sixth Golden Core Realm cultivator, as that cultivator''s spiritual barrierpletely surrounded his body without any blind spots. It was no longer possible to use the Shadow Buddha Technique to ambush them.


    "H-have mercy! Please spare us!"


    Hundreds of cultivators kneeled before a Golden Core Realm cultivator and begged desperately for mercy. Around them stood several Spirit Blood Sect cultivators from the Foundation Building Realm to the Qi Refining Realm who looked at them with expressions of mockery. These cultivators were from one of the five major families in the inner capital. Their Golden Core Realm ancestors were either trapped in the hunting grounds or had already perished.


    "It''s not that I won''t spare you, but... this is your fate," said the Spirit Blood Sect cultivator, sighing. "For the sake of achieving our grand mission, sacrifices must be made. If you can reincarnate, you will witness the peaceful and prosperous era prepared by our Blood Spirit Sect for you. At that time, your cultivation path will not be as difficult, and you will find that cultivation resources will be abundant."


    "You madman! Your sect is just a bunch of madmen! You''re willing to do anything for cultivation. You make yourself sound so noble, but in reality, you''re just using us to refine your Blood Spirit Pills!"


    Some cultivators who saw that the other party was unwilling to spare them despite their pleas, stood up and rebuked them angrily.


    The Golden Core Realm cultivator from the Spirit Blood Sect remained calm and exined, "Do you think the Blood Spirit Pills refined from you weaklings are enough? At best, you''re just a small part, we will still have to wait some time for the main dish."


    He then raised his hand lightly, and a terrifying wave of spiritual energy surged madly. He wanted to send these cultivators on their way in the simplest manner possible.


    Suddenly, a cold snort rang out. "You dare talk about keeping peace? You''re dreaming!"


    The Spirit Blood Sect¡¯s cultivator lips suddenly curled up. "You finally show yourself. Everyone, take him down. I want to see who has the ability to ambush us and kill under our noses."


    <em>Thud, thud, thud.</em>


    Three heads that were stained blood-red were thrown over and rolled to the feet of the Spirit Blood Sect Golden Core cultivator. The owners of these heads seemed to have seen something incredible before they died, as their faces were filled with astonishment and unwillingness.


    "How could this be...?"


    That cultivator from the Spirit Blood Sect''s eyes lost focus. These three were clearly hispanions and they had agreed to stage a y to lure out the attacker in secret. But how... did they die so quietly?


    The Spirit Blood Sect¡¯s Golden Core Realm cultivator looked up, and a figure appeared before him. When he saw the other party''s face clearly, his expression mirrored the same astonishment of the three that had died. "It''s you... how could it be you..."


    What followed was a sh of sword light that severed the cultivator''s head from his spine. His expression was full of astonishment and unwillingness as he died.


    The hundreds of cultivators who were kneeling were dumbfounded. Their faces turned stiff as they looked at Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen asked lightly, "What are you waiting for? Are you nning to keep the remaining Spirit Blood Sect cultivators alive for the New Year?"


    After hearing that, hundreds of cultivators rose up and started attacking the surrounding Spirit Blood Sect cultivators.


    "Phew¡­" Fang Chen let out a gentle sigh, his face showing undeniable fatigue. The Golden Core Realm cultivator from the Spirit Blood Sect had been prepared. He had needed to use the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture to kill those four in the Golden Core Realm. Every time he killed one or two people, his spiritual energy would be depleted, despite his immortal sword vein. Regardless, using the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture was a heavy burden for Fang Chen.


    Mirror of the Universe''s voice echoes in Fang Chen''s mind. "Brother, if you use this technique again, you''ll shorten your lifespan, and it might even affect your current foundation since you haven''t entered the Foundation Building Realm. Shouldn''t you take a break?"


    Fang Chen said lightly, "I''d like to take a break too, but... there''s no time to waste. If the threat isn''t eliminated, it¡¯s a death sentence for me too."


    He was a bit tired, but thankfully, he had acquired quite a few treasures along the way, and Little Sword seemed to have grown stronger again. Because of that, Fang Chen felt more rxed.


    Having searched the Golden Core Realm cultivator''s body for treasures, Fang Chen saw that the surrounding Spirit Blood Sect cultivators had been dealt with. The hundreds of cultivators all looked at him and hesitated to speak.


    "The Spirit Blood Sect wants to use the Hidden Cloud as a furnace and they won''t spare you to achieve their goal. Hiding here is futile, either go to the outer capital or stay inside. y every Spirit Blood Sect cultivator you encounter, and fight for a glimmer of hope," said Fang Chen before disappearing into the shadows.


    "That person just now... seemed like Fang Chen from the Fang Family!"


    "Did he say that the Spirit Blood Sect is nning to use the Hidden Cloud Region as a furnace?!"


    "Oh my god, those lunatics are truly insane!"


    "Everyone, if the Spirit Blood Sect indeed has this intention, this matter is not simple at all. If we don''t resist, we will truly have no way out!"


    "Let''s go! We¡¯re headed to the outer capital!"


    Hundreds of cultivators fled the scene and rushed toward the outer capital. Fang Chen sensed all of this from the shadows and nodded lightly. As long as cultivators spread the word and made others aware of Spirit Blood Sect''s intentions, they would rise up and resist. His task was to intercept and keep the Golden Core Realm cultivators busy, making it difficult for them to intervene on arge scale.


    Even if they realized his presence and his assassination of a Golden Core Realm cultivator, what could they do? His divine soul could see through all falsehood and traps, making it seem like the tricks of a child to him.

 Chapter 442: Black Mist Dispersed!

    <h4>Chapter 442: ck Mist Dispersed!</h4>


    Slowly, two hours passed, and thentern oil was about to run out.


    Dongfang Haojie felt immense heartache; this was his essence and blood after all.


    "No, I have to ask that person what methods he has to deal with the threat outside!"


    With that thought in mind, Dongfang Haojie scanned his surroundings and when he saw that the members of the Fang Family were still surrounding Fang Chen tightly, a hint of confusion rose in his heart.


    "Brother, can you ask your family member what he''s doing?" Dongfang Haojie held the Dragon Bones Heavenly Lantern and didn''t dare to move around randomly. He could only ask Fang Xiu who was nearby.


    Fang Xiu¡¯s expression turned strange as he shook his head lightly without answering.


    Unwilling to give up, Dongfang Haojie asked another member of the Fang Family, but he got the same response. Whenever someone tried to approach them to see Fang Chen, they would be stopped by Fang Wanli.


    "What exactly is Fang Chen doing!?"


    "He''s just ying tricks. At this point, what tricks can he have as a Qi Refining Realm disciple? Haven''t you seen that those Golden Core Realm ancestors are helpless and trapped here just like us?"


    Everyone whispered amongst themselves, but more were closing their eyes to rest; they knew that the Dragon Bones Heavenly Lantern wouldn''tst much longer and they would be in for a tough battle.


    "<i>Junior Sister, after the effect of thentern wears off, I will take action against those three grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm ancestors. With the cooperation of other Golden Core Realm cultivators, I can buy us some time. Try your best to escape to the outer capital. If you can hold on until the formation here breaks, report this matter to the sect. The Spirit Blood Sect will pay a heavy price for this incident,</i>" said the female sword cultivator with a dark tone as she transmitted her voice.


    ¡°Senior Sister, do you have any chance of winning against those three grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm cultivators?¡± Fairy Yu asked seriously.


    The female sword cultivator pondered and said, "Only a one percent chance."


    Fairy Yu sighed inwardly. That''s almost no chance at all.


    She knew how sword cultivators were. If a sword cultivator thought there was only a one percent chance of winning, it meant there was no chance at all.


    "<i>Don''t worry, Senior Sister. Let''s wait a little longer. Maybe there will be a turning point,</i>" Fairy Yu advised through voice transmission.


    She believed that Fang Chen had already taken action and was working hard on this matter. The Dragon Bones Heavenly Lantern was proof of that. Without thentern, she couldn''t imagine what the situation in Grand Qian would be like now.


    At the same time, Qian Wuji and the other two''s expressions changed as they saw a Golden Core Realm cultivator hastily returning from outside.


    "We''re being assassinated!" shouted the early-stage Golden Core Realm cultivator as he escaped.


    Qian Wuji''s expression turned grim. "What about the others?"


    "They''re all dead! The person who attacked us is at least in the grandpletion stage of the Golden Core Realm. We''re not his match!"


    The early stage Golden Core Realm cultivator looked relieved. Fortunately, he reacted quickly when he sensed that something was afoot, so he rushed back immediately. Otherwise, he would have died.


    He couldn''t see the appearance of the person who attacked them clearly, but he knew that the person¡¯s sword technique was terrifying.


    He used a single sword to kill one of hispanions!


    All of them are dead!?


    Qian Wuji and the others were stunned. Were there still survivors outside?


    But within Grand Qian, there were only three people who were at the grandpletion stage in the Golden Core Realm. Fang Tingjian had already been heavily injured, and the Jue Family¡¯ste stage Golden Core Realm cultivator had already died.


    "Hahaha! Did you hear that? Over a dozen Golden Core Realm cultivators died! Our odds of winning just increased!" Under the cyan light, a Golden Core Realm cultivator pointed at Qian Wuji and others,ughing hysterically.


    <i>Who else could it be?</i>


    Fang Wanli, Princess Shenlong, and the others exchanged looks, their faces suddenly showing smiles as they joined in the mockery. The heavy atmosphere was abruptly lifted.


    That was what they wanted to see. If they were convinced of their inevitable defeat, how could they continue the battle? However... everyone was still curious, who could be outside hunting down Spirit Blood Sect''s Golden Core Realm cultivators?


    Suddenly, the group of Fang Family¡¯s disciples surrounding Fang Chen looked at the empty space in front of them, their expressions bing quite strange.


    <i>It couldn''t be Fang Chen, right? It shouldn''t be....</i>


    No matter how strong and mysterious Fang Chen''s abilities were, it was impossible for him to hunt down Golden Core Realm cultivators.


    The female sword cultivator''s expression changed. "Our opportunity is here."


    With more than ten Golden Core Realm cultivators killed on the other side,bined with those who died in the previous alteration, the Spirit Blood Sect''s numbers had dwindled significantly. There were only a little over ten early stage Golden Core Realm cultivators, six mid stage Golden Core Realm, four in thete stage Golden Core Realm, and three in the grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm outside.


    Even though their force was still quite formidable, as long as Fang Tingjian could recover and lead them, the remaining Golden Core Realm cultivators on their side could hold them off.


    "There are still fourte stage Golden Core Realm cultivators and three grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm cultivators. I can instantly kill those at thete stage if I am presented a suitable chance, as for thetter..."


    The female sword cultivator''s face was full of uncertainty.


    If the odds of winning were zero previously, she now felt that there was truly a chance of winning. After all, they still had an unidentified expert who could hunt down early stage Golden Core Realm cultivators.


    One of the Golden Core Realm cultivators in the grandpletion stage frowned. "Shouldn''t we send someone out to take a look?"


    Qian Wuji and another person remained silent.


    <i>Send someone out?</i>


    Their opponent''s strength was unknown. Who knew what methods he had at his disposal? If things went south, it would greatly affect the current situation.


    Qian Wuji said coldly, "No need, let''s control this ce. It doesn''t matter even if the Kunlong Battle General scolds us."


    Another grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm cultivator nodded in agreement. "Yes, after Kunlong Battle General deals with those three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators, we will still have a winning situation!"


    After a briefmunication, they fell silent and stared at Fang Wanli and the others with eyes as cold as venomous snakes.


    Seeing that Qian Wuji and the others didn''t send anyone out of the hunting ground, Fang Wanli and the others breathed a sigh of relief.


    Regardless, the situation should be good now. With that mysterious expert around, the Blood Spirit Sect''s Qi Refining and Foundation Building cultivators were like cannon fodder.


    Another two hours passed in what felt like an eternity for everyone.


    The fluctuation of the Dragon Bones Heavenly Lantern became irregr. Qian Wuji noticed this and smiled. "Yourntern is almost out of oil, right?"


    Fang Wanli and the others became nervous. Even though Fang Tingjian''s terrifying wounds had healed over these hours of rest, hisplexion was still pale, indicating that he hadn''t fully recovered yet.


    Now, theirbat strength was only a fraction of what it was at its peak.


    "Who told you it''s almost out?" said Dongfang Haojie as he red at Qian Wuji. He spat out ten drops of essence blood in front of everyone and dropped them into the Dragon Bones Heavenly Lantern.


    The green light stabilized once again.


    When everyone saw that, they were surprised. They quickly undetsood why Fang Chen had entrusted thentern to Dongfang Haojie.


    Qian Wuji and the others frowned slightly. "What kind of constitution does Dongfang Haojie have? His blood actually has such miraculous effects? No wonder Kunlong Battle General couldn''t poison him."


    When Dongfang Haojie saw Fairy Tianyin looking at him in surprise, he said with a pale and weak smile, "Fairy Tianyin, I will protect you. I won''t let you be met with trouble."


    As soon as he finished speaking, a loud roar echoed, and then the ck mistpletely dispersed....

 Chapter 443: What Is He Trying to Do?

    <h4>Chapter 443: What Is He Trying to Do?</h4>


    Outside the capital, the Spirit Blood Sect cultivators had been stopped, and the situation was reversed. From hunters, they had turned into prey.


    The situation inside the capital was roughly the same. At this point, about three-fourths of the external threats had been dealt with, and the remaining ones were at the hunting ground.


    Nong Guiquan walked out of the shadows and approached Fang Chen. "Lord Fang, I''ve killed quite a few people this time. Do you have enough spirit stones prepared?"


    He was covered in wounds. Both his hands were stained in both his and his enemies'' blood, so he had a fierce appearance to him right now.


    Fang Chen smiled. "Let me see."


    Nong Guiquan handed Fang Chen a storage ring filled with heads. There were at least a hundred of them.


    Fang Chen nodded lightly and handed Nong Guiquan a few storage rings. "The owners of these rings are Golden Core Realm cultivators from the Spirit Blood Sect. The items inside should be enough to settle the bill. If they''re not enough, we''ll settle the rest after this matter is concluded. If you end up in the underworld and we can''t settle it, I''ll find a way to. That''s my rule."


    Nong Guiquan nodded and took the rings, then turned and left. After he left, Fang Chen blended back into the shadows and returned to the hunting ground. Just then, a loud bang seemed to explode in his ears.


    The ck mist dispersed!


    Everyone''s gaze turned toward the source of the sound. They saw Immortal Void Rush, Immortal White Tiger, and Supreme Expert Dragon Wood all covered in a fierce fire, their expressions pale.


    A trace of blood mist continuously drifted out from within them and was absorbed by the mes. As the mes absorbed the blood mist, they became uncontroble, growing hotter and hotter.


    "What is this...?" someone muttered to themselves."Are the three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators getting refined alive?"


    Immediately, the gaze of the crowd fell on Kunlong Battle General. He was d in a ck robe, wearing a mask that made his features indiscernible.


    "All of you, set up the Divine Blood Spirit Refining Formation and assist me in refining these three individuals," said an indifferent voice.


    The expressions of Qian Wuji and others changed. In the next moment, the other two grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm, along with their remaining Golden Core Realm disciples, all rushed behind him and sat down one after another.


    Before long, a surge of spiritual energy erupted from them, interweaving with each other and finally turning into a zing sea of fire, engulfing everything around and shrouding the three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators within! As they joined in, the expressions of the three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators became increasingly full of pain.


    "When these three getpletely refined, your time to die will also arrive," Qian Wuji said coldly as he nced at Fang Tingjian and the others.


    The reason he didn''t set up the formation was obvious; it was to prevent Fang Tingjian and his group from interfering.


    "Now is the time!" The female sword cultivator suddenly made a move.


    A terrifying sword intent surged like a mighty wave, transforming into a ray of sword light aimed directly at Qian Wuji!


    Qian Wuji sneered. He had long noticed her existence and had been on guard against her.


    "Even if you are a sword cultivator, you are only at the early-stage Golden Core Realm. Don¡¯t think that your sword inheritance is truly invincible!" Qian Wuji sneered as vast spiritual energy surged around him, and a crimson g appeared in front of him. A streak of red light surged out, intertwining with the sword light.


    The female sword cultivator''s expression changed as she issued a cold shout. "Everyone, attack together!"


    With her reminder, Fang Wanli and the others quickly reacted and used their techniques.


    Qian Wujipletely ignored this group of people and disyed his Five Element Controlling Technique to conjure fire dragons that blocked Fang Wanli and others'' attacks easily.


    At the early or even the mid-stage Golden Core Realm, their attacks indeed had little effect on him. At most, they could only help the female sword cultivator consume some of Qian Wuji''s spiritual energy. Other than that, they were of no use.


    "<i>You can seize using the Dragon Bone Heavenly Lantern temporarily,</i>" Fang Chen''s voice appeared in Dongfang Haojie¡¯s ear.


    Dongfang Haojie was slightly startled and quickly stopped the transfer of spiritual energy. The green light around them immediately flowed back into the Dragon Bone Sky Lantern like water.


    The crowd was startled at first, then quickly realized that they were temporarily safe.


    Except for Qian Wuji, the other Gold Core Realm cultivators had gone to help the Spirit Blood Sect''s Nascent Soul Realm refine Immortal Void Rush and the others. As for Qian Wuji, he was now besieged by the female sword cultivator and the other Golden Core Realm cultivators, unable to spare a hand to deal with them.


    Some people''s eyes flickered, and they turned to escape from the hunting ground, while others stayed behind. They knew that if these Golden Core Realm cultivators didn''t die today and that Nascent Soul Realm cultivator from the Spirit Blood Sect wasn''t dealt with, no one would survive.


    "<i>My lord, has the situation outside been stabilized?</i>" Fairy Yu''s voice sounded in Fang Chen''s ear.


    "<i>More or less, only some remnants are fleeing,</i>" Fang Chen replied with a slight nod.


    Fairy Yu let out a deep sigh of relief. ¡°That¡¯s good....¡±


    However, the crisis before them was far from resolved. Qian Wuji, relying on the crimson blood g, could effortlessly deal with her senior sister and other Gold Core Realm cultivators like Fang Wanli. If even Qian Wuji couldn''t handle it, how could they resolve the crisis involving the three Nascent Soul realm cultivators?


    Fang Chen observed with his divine soul as he watched the battle unfold before him. ¡°This g is a peak-grade, yellow-rank treasure. Qian Wuji can use it to fight across realms, but it should also be depleting his lifespan."


    Simr to how ordinary cultivators would deplete their own lifespan by using treasures beyond their cultivation realms, Qian Wuji''s recklessness was evident and he was likely to rely on Blood Spirit Pills.


    With this thought in mind, Fang Chen didn''t intervene in the battle but instead walked towards the group of Golden Core Realm cultivators. Qian Wuji seemed to notice this and attempted to drag the battle in Fang Chen''s direction, but he was intercepted by the female sword cultivator.


    The female cultivator''s mind was full of doubt. <i>What is he trying to do? With his cultivation, he can''t even harm those Golden Core Realm cultivators.</i>


    Someone was quicker than Fang Chen, and that was Fang Tingjian. Instead of attacking Qian Wuji, he manipted his flying sword to strike at the group of Golden Core Realm cultivators. At the same time, the eyes beneath the mask of the Kunlong Battle General nced slowly at Fang Tingjian with an indifferent gaze as if he were an ant.


    A trace of aura surged from him, enveloping the nearby Spirit Blood Sect''s Golden Core Realm cultivators. As Fang Tingjian''s flying sword approached, it encountered endless resistance, and he was unable to advance even a tiny bit in midair!


    ¡°Haha! You can''t stop the footsteps of our Spirit Blood Sect!¡±


    Qian Wuji burst intoughter and focused on dealing with the female sword cultivator and the others.


    ¡°How can this be....¡±


    The crowd was somewhat dazed as a hint of despair appeared in their eyes. Even ate stage Golden Core Realm cultivator like Fang Tingjian couldn''t do anything!


    Fang Tingjian''s face was pale, as if this sword had depleted all his strength. His body swayed as if he was about to fall, but a hand steadied him.


    Fang Chen said softly, ¡°Ancestor Tingjian, take a rest. Let me try,¡±


    ¡°You?¡± Fang Tingjian was slightly surprised, but he nodded lightly. ¡°Go ahead.¡±


    ¡°What is Fang Chen trying to do!?¡±


    "Even Golden Core Realm cultivators can''t shake this formation at all, not to mention a Qi Refining Realm cultivator like him...."


    The crowd''s expressions were strange as they silently watched Fang Chen approach the group of Golden Core Realm cultivators.


    At the same time, many cultivators poured into the hunting ground. It was Abbess Zhu Yue and her group, Fang Jue and his group, Li Daoye and his group, and Xia Ji.


    Sui Nianhua¡¯s eyes revealed a hint of confusion. ¡°What is this person trying to do?¡±


    Fairy Tianyin looked at Dongfang Haojie. "Do you know him? What is he trying to do?"


    ¡°How would I know.... But... he should have some tricks up his sleeve...¡± Dongfang Haojie muttered.

 Chapter 444: I Still Have One Sword

    <h4>Chapter 444: I Still Have One Sword</h4>


    As Fang Chen advanced, the group of Golden Core Realm cultivators showed no reaction and focused fully on assisting the Kulong Battle General in refining the three Nascent Soul Realm. In their eyes, if Fang Tingjian, who was in thete stage of the Golden Core Realm couldn¡¯t harm them, and with the female sword cultivator being held back by Qian Wuji, what could a mere Qi Refining Realm cultivator do to them?


    Fang Chen suddenly stopped. "Little Sword, are you ready?"


    "Little Chen, make your move!" Little Sword''s voice rang out eagerly.


    In the next moment, a sh of sword light radiated from Fang Chen''s hand, surging with profound sword intent, and attacked the nearest Golden Core Realm cultivator.


    "What a profound sword intent!"


    "Isn''t Fang Chen''s strongest technique the Five Element Controlling Technique?"


    "No way! Does this mean that he has never revealed his true cards even while fighting against Jue Wudi!"


    "This sword intent is on par with that female sword cultivator from earlier!"


    "Sword cultivator! Fang Chen is a sword cultivator!"


    Countless high-level cultivators eximed in shock. The members of the Fang Family and the imperial family looked at each other in disbelief.


    In the crowd, Fang Mosheng and Fang Lingxing were hiding in the back. When they saw the power of his sword, this pair of father and daughter exchanged looks of shock.


    "He''s actually a sword cultivator..." Sui Nianhua muttered to herself, and several senior brothers beside her were also astonished.


    Yan Ruyue was dumbfounded as she looked at the peasant woman. "Master, is Lord Fang really a sword cultivator?"


    "Why should you be surprised? Is it strange for him to be a sword cultivator?" Zhang Xiaoke said with a smile.


    "Third Brother... Fang Chen, he..."


    The sixth princess looked shocked and nced at Xia Ji subconsciously.


    Xia Ji''s face revealed a faint smile. "What''s surprising? Is it that strange that he''s a sword cultivator? There''s no need to be surprised. In my eyes, anything cane out of him."


    "Third Brother, why do you have so much confidence in Fang Chen? It was like this when we were young, and it''s the same now...?"


    The sixth princess finally voiced the long-standing confusion in her heart. She couldn''t understand why Xia Ji had such a good rtionship with Fang Chen and trusted him so much. In their youth, Fang Chen showed contempt for the royal family, often picking on royal family members. Xia Yu suffered the most from this, which was one of the reasons why she couldn''t tolerate Fang Chen.


    Xia Ji said softly with a light smile, "If you had more interactions with Fang Chen when you were young, you would know that he is knowledgeable and understands many principles. The truths he speaks of would also make you unable to resist being convinced."


    Princess Liuxi was about to speak when she was suddenly drawn by bursts of exmations.


    "It''s him! He was the one who killed the Golden Core Realm cultivators from the Spirit Blood Sect and saved us!"


    "So it''s Fang Chen! He can kill Golden Core Realm cultivators!"


    Many cultivators grew excited as gratitude filled their eyes.


    "What!? The death of the Golden Core Realm cultivators was Fang Chen''s doing!?"


    "How is that possible... he has been with us all this time...?"


    "Everyone, it''s indeed Fang Chen''s doing. From the beginning, Fang Chen has not been with us. Have you forgotten how he suddenly appeared just now?" A member of the Fang Family spoke loudly.


    The group of Fang Family¡¯s disciples finally understood what Fang Chen had been up to when he had disappeared earlier. He had been assassinating the Spirit Blood Sect¡¯s Golden Core Realm cultivators, and stabilizing the internal and external situation of the capital to dy the destruction of Great Qian.


    Any one of these actions alone would be enough to shock people. These are things that many Golden Core Realm cultivators present couldn''t aplish as they were all trapped here and unable to move at all!


    The sixth princess was shocked and speechless. "Fang Chen can actually kill Golden Core cultivators...."


    Daoist Ya was both shocked and excited. "I never thought... that I would have connections with such a figure!"


    "He was the one who killed the Golden Core Realm cultivators of the Blood Spirit Sect?! Doesn''t that mean that when he faced me back then... he could have easily in me with a single sword strike?" Sui Nianhua muttered to herself.


    The expressions of the surrounding senior brothers turned strange. They hadn''t expected that Fang Chen had shown them mercy back then. They had thought that Fang Chen had relied on his strong physique to win that battle.


    "He said he wanted to resolve external threats, and he really did so...." Dongfang Haojie stared at Fang Chen, his arm trembling lightly. Fairy Tianyin looked a bit nervous and instinctively grabbed Dongfang Haojie''s arm. "Who exactly is he?"


    "I¡¯m also in the dark," Dongfang Haojie said with a bitter smile.


    At the same time, the Golden Core Realm cultivators who were facing off against Qian Wuji also sensed that sword intent.


    Fang Wanli nced at Fang Chen in amazement, a hint of shock shing in his eyes. "This kid is following the path of sword cultivation!? Isn''t that even more amazing than the previous ancestor, Tingyuan!?"


    Immortal Tianwu was enlightened. "No wonder his physical body is so strong. Sword cultivators possess a sword body."


    "The Sword Embryo!" The female sword cultivator looked toward Fang Chen and wanted to rush over instinctively, but Qian Wuji stopped her.


    Damn it.


    The Sword Embryo was indeed in Great Qian and was in the hands of that boy right in front of her! Unfortunately, with Qian Wuji blocking her, she can''t be distracted!


    The first move of the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture


    When that sword fell on the Golden Core Realm cultivator, it was simrly dissipated by the force surrounding the Kun Long Battle General. It posed no threat at all. Seeing that, everyone''s heightened spirits immediately plummeted again.


    Fairy Yu¡¯s eyes dimmed slightly. "Is it not enough... is the Lord unable to reverse this situation as well?"


    "Fang Chen, although you are a sword cultivator, your current cultivation level is too low. I fear you won''t be able to hurt them." Fang Tingjian sighed lightly, then he looked at the boundless sky, "Perhaps if I self-destruct my Golden Core, I can st open a path for you."


    ¡°Ancestor, there''s no need. I still have one sword strike left,¡± Fang Chen said softly, shaking his head before closing his eyes. In his mind, he began to visualize the second move of the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture


    The anxious voice of Mirror of the Universe sounded. "Brother, you need to think this over carefully. With your current strength, even if you have immortal sword veins... it won''t be able to sustain you after you use that sword. The consumption is too great! It will deplete your lifespan!"


    Little Sword snapped back. "Shut up! If Fang Chen doesn''t cut a path out today, both of us will bepletely refined!"


    "I won''t be refined. At most, I''ll change masters..." Mirror of the Universe muttered to himself. Then, his voice became resolute as if he was gritting his teeth. "Little Brother, go ahead! The lifespan consumed can bepensated for!"


    Fang Chen no longer heard Mirror of the Universe''s voice in his ear, and suddenly, everything around him became silent. Not even the slightest sound could enter his ears.


    In this environment, Fang Chen''s mind became clearer than everl, and his thoughts seemed to move several times faster. Unconsciously, his eyes began to show some golden patterns, resembling the meridians within his body.


    Fang Chen hadn''t nned to activate the Primordial Immortal Eyes, but as he prepared to unleash the second sword of the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture, the Priomordial Immortal Eyes activated on their own. At that moment, he felt like he could gain mastery of whichever technique he used.


    <i>So this is another effect of the Primordial Immortal Eyes....</i>


    Fang Chen sighed inwardly and then swung his sword toward the Golden Core Realm cultivator. The Golden Core Realm cultivator opened his eyes suddenly and looked at Fang Chen with a sneer.


    That sword seemed unremarkable and was even less imposing than before.


    However, a line of blood appeared on that Golden Core Realm cultivator''s forehead and extended down to his lower body. Then, with the line of blood as the center, both sides of flesh and blood began to disappear rapidly. In just an instant, the Golden Core Realm cultivator disappeared without a trace....

 Chapter 445: Cutting Through The Cycles of Life

    Chapter 445: Cutting Through The Cycles of Life


    As Fang Chen unleashed his sword, he suddenly felt a hollow emptiness. His temples were turning gray, and what used to be the face of an eighteen or neen-year-old was now showing fine wrinkles, revealing a touch of aging.


    Fang Tingjian looked at where the vanished Golden Core Realm cultivator had been and then at Fang Chen. Gradually, a hint of astonishment welled up in his eyes.


    That strike... was quite strange! Even though its momentum was not as great as the previous one, it actually broke through the methods of a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator like the Kunlong Battle General and killed the Golden Core Realm cultivator he was protecting.


    The people initially didn''t hold much hope for Fang Chen, but when they saw this sword y a Golden Core Realm cultivator, they fell into silence. Their rising and falling chests revealed their inner excitement.


    The female sword cultivator''s eyes showed disbelief. "How is this possible..."


    Even she wasn''t confident she could injure a Golden Core Realm cultivator that was under the protection of a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator, yet Fang Chen was able to do so!


    "Is this because of that sword embryo!?" That thought surfaced but was immediately suppressed by the female sword cultivator. It shouldn¡¯t just be because of the sword embryo. No matter how strong it was, without skills, it couldn''t unleash such attack power!


    "This person... should not have been allowed to live!" Qian Wuji was furious, and his methods became even more violent. The female sword cultivator and others noticed Qian Wuji''s urgency. They realized that he was trying to finish them off quickly so he could deal with Fang Chen.


    "Qian Wuji is getting anxious. Everyone, put in more effort! Thatdy sword cultivator, put in more effort too. Don''t let him escape!" Fang Wanli shouted sternly.All the Golden Core Realm cultivators dared not divert their attention to Fang Chen and focused on dealing with Qian Wuji. Currently, Fang Chen was their only hope, and they couldn''t afford to let the situation copse; they had to maintain stability!


    "This..."


    The three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators suddenly opened their eyes, their gazes falling on Fang Chen in unison. Even the eyes beneath Kunlong Battle General''s mask were no longer indifferent; there was a hint of fluctuation as he looked at Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen raised the sword in his hand and shed toward the second Golden Core Realm cultivator. Even though that Golden Core Realm cultivator had already sensed that something was amiss and was afraid, he was more inclined to believe in Kunlong Battle General''s abilities.


    <em>Puchi!</em>


    The Golden Core Realm cultivator perished and the mes shrouding the three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators dimmed slightly!


    Fang Chen''s temples were nowpletely gray. He now looked like someone nearing his thirties.


    "That¡¯s bad! He''s consuming his lifespan!"


    "Those two sword strikes can kill Golden Core Realm cultivators, but they also cause immense damage to himself!"


    Dongfang Haojie and others reacted, their eyes filled with surprise. Lifespan was the foundation for cultivators; if their lifespan waspromised, it would affect many aspects of their cultivation. Without enough lifespan, how could one advance to the next realm? That was the most crucial point!


    Ordinary cultivators wouldn''t choose to do this easily. Burning lifespan was akin to cutting off their path to immortality!


    Fairy Yu, Zhang Xiaoke, Xia Ji, and the others all showed a hint of worry in their eyes. But they knew that Fang Chen could not stop now.


    He swung his third sword, iming the life of yet another Golden Core Realm cultivator.


    Qian Wuji instantly felt a chill down his spine. Three Golden Core Realm cultivators under Kunlong Battle General¡¯s protection had been killed in session! The sword in Fang Chen''s hand was probably capable of killing even grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm cultivators!


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t he team up with these people to kill me first?¡± A question arose in his mind. Qian Wuji had never thought about it. In Fang Chen''s eyes, he was a formidable opponent to be feared, but the female sword cultivator was also someone Fang Chen feared. To avoid affecting today''s situation, a duel between them was what Fang Chen preferred the most.


    With both sides in a deadlock, no one could influence his next actions. After the third sword, Fang Chen''s appearance became that of a man in his forties. Although he looked older, there was a unique middle-aged charm about him.


    The fourth strike.


    Fang Chen entered his fifties, understanding the cycle of life.


    The fifth eventually fell.


    Fang Chen entered his sixties, reaching old age.


    The sixth strike also came next.


    Fang Chen reached his seventies.


    With his seventh strike¡­


    Fang Chen reached his eighties.


    Eventually, the eighth and ninth strikes fell.


    The tenth move marked his nies, an age that many mortals struggled to reach.


    Fang Chen''s hair had turnedpletely white, and his posture had be slightly bent. From the age of maturity to his current appearance, he only took the time to unleash ten strikes.


    People seemed to witness a surreal scene, as they witnessed a young man entering adulthood, understanding the cycle of life, reaching old age, and eventually facing the end of his life.


    It was like a Heavenly Dao of the journey of life from beginning to end.


    "This can¡¯t go on!" Tears streamed down Fairy Yu¡¯s face as she watched Fang Chen transform into his current state. She suddenly rushed forward and shouted at Fang Chen, ¡°My lord, don¡¯t draw your sword anymore! Don¡¯t!"


    <em>My lord?</em>


    Several scenes shed in the female sword cultivator''s mind, and she finally recognized Fang Chen.


    The female sword cultivator murmured to herself, "So it''s him..."


    Xia Ji spoke in a low voice, "Fang Chen, do you remember what I told you previously?"


    "My lord, I still have a long life ahead, use mine!"


    Zhang Xiaoke wanted to rush to Fang Chen''s side, but he was firmly held back by the peasant woman.


    Elder Su said softly with aplex expression, "You can''t intervene in this kind of battle... and he also can''t use your lifespan..."


    Dongfang Haojie asked hesitantly, "Brother... My blood essence still has some use, do you want to use it? I''ll share some with you!"


    Fairy Tianyin looked at him, suddenly feeling that the chubby man in front of her was quite different from what she remembered.


    Fang Chen slowly turned around and looked at Fairy Yu, Xia Ji, Zhang Xiaoke, as well as the familiar faces of Fang Jue, Fang Xiu, Fang Ao, Jing Jing, and the rest.


    He smiled, nodded slightly at everyone, and then turned around, carrying his sword toward the next Golden Core Realm cultivator.


    Fang Tingjian suddenly spoke up. "Is it worth it?"


    Fang Chen said with an aged voice thatcked the vitality it once had, carrying a heavy sense of death instead. ¡°For matters like this, there is nothing to weigh. Not to mention my friends and kindred spirits, even if it was only for themon people, it is worth it."


    The voice of Kunlong Battle General rang out. ¡°If you continue depleting your lifespan, you won¡¯t be able to be immortal in this life. ¡±


    As Fang Chen looked at him and swung his sword to strike the next Golden Core Realm cultivator, a faint smile appeared on his wrinkled face. ¡°If there''s no mortal, there''s no immortal. If I can¡¯t even be human, what kind of crap immortal would I be?¡±


    <em>sh.</em>


    Another golden core cultivator fell.


    After that strike, the white hair on Fang Chen''s head began to fall off, and the hair on his head became sparser. He no longer had the heroic and handsome appearance of his youth and instead lookedpletely like an old man with one foot in the grave.


    The three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators were moved at that moment.


    Immortal Void Rush stared at Fang Chen and suddenly said, ¡°He¡¯s not cutting down Golden Core Realm cultivator, he¡¯s cutting through the cycles of life.¡±


    ¡°Cutting through the cycles of life?¡± Immortal White Tiger and Supreme Expert Dragon Wood nced at each other before looking at Fang Chen. Their eyes were filled withplex emotions.


    ¡°He¡¯s not cutting down Golden Cores... but the cycles of life?¡±


    Immortal Void Rush''s words deeply moved countless people, plunging them into deep contemtion. From youth to old age, isn''t this the cycle of life?


    Fairy Yu clenched her fists tightly. ¡°The lord is cutting his own cycle of life¡­.¡±


    Not far away, Abbess Qing He looked at her master, ¡°Master, are we really powerless?¡±


    Abbess Zhu Yue nodded softly, her gaze shifting to Fang Qingyao. ¡°Yes, we are.¡±


    Even though she kept her silence, her eyes never left Fang Chen. Tears started streaming down her face unknowingly.

 Chapter 446: I Hate Them. Born As Ants!

    Chapter 446: I Hate Them. Born As Ants!


    Big Eyed Li muttered to himself as he stood amongst the crowd, "Can we really survive the cmity today?"


    Tiger Lord and Nong Gui appeared beside him at some point, and more and more cultivators rushed to the hunting grounds. Among them were those from the Jue Family who were at the Foundation Building Realm and Qi Refining Realm. They thought that this time, the Jue Family was going to be destroyed in this cmity, but they never expected to see a glimmer of hope on an enemy.


    "Son, use your Divination of the Stars to calcte the oue of today!" Big Eyed Li looked at Li Daoye.


    Li Daoye had already closed his eyes and white qi started surrounding him. However, hisplexion became increasingly grim. He opened his eyes, his expressionplex. "Dad, I can''t calcte it unless I deplete all my lifespan."


    "If you can''t calcte it, then so be it. Today, life or death depends on how many cycles of life that person can still cut through." Big Eyed Li sighed softly.


    Jue Tiangang muttered to himself with aplicated expression, "I thought there was only a slight difference between Jue Wudi and him, but now it seems that Jue Wudi''s talent can''t even bepared to him."


    "Tiangang, could Jue Wudi really be a Spirit Blood Sect cultivator?" A Foundation Building Realm cultivator furrowed his brow.


    "Who knows? Spirit Blood Sect¡¯s cultivators are everywhere, and now someone says he is, so he probably is."


    Jue Tiangang said indifferently, "If we survive today, denying this fact would only harm us and bring no benefits."The crowd fell into silence and all eyes turned to Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen approached yet another Golden Core Realm cultivator.


    That Golden Core Realm cultivator looked on in horror as hisrades fell one by one at the hands of Fang Chen. When he realized that he was Fang Chen''s target, despite being in the middle stage of the Golden Core Realm, he was filled with fear!


    The middle stage Golden Core Realm cultivator gritted his teeth and let out a roar, "I''ll fight with you until the end!"


    He immediately rose from his seat, broke free from the Divine Blood Spirit Refining Formation, and attacked Fang Chen aggressively.


    Another sword strike came forth. In the blink of an eye, the middle stage Golden Core Realm waspletely annihted.


    Wrinkles started appearing on Fang Chen¡¯s body. Witnessing this scene, everyone understood that if Fang Chen continued to wield his sword like that, he would end up killing himself!


    "This child..." Fang Ao and his wife clenched their hands tightly together with Fang Yun and Fang Jue standing beside them.


    At that moment, Li Cang and Chang Fen were also with them. The gazes of everyone were filled with a tinge of heartache.


    Fang Yun suddenly spoke up, "Dad... Will Brother Fang Chen die if he keeps this up?"


    Fang Ao nced at her and nodded gently, "No one can lose so much of their lifespan, especially not so many times."


    Fang Yun looked at Fang Chen in a daze. For some reason, her heart suddenly ached.


    "Younger brother, don''t wield your sword anymore. We can hold on for a while longer, but they can''t dy any further," the voice of Immortal Void Rush suddenly rang out.


    Fang Chen''s steps paused slightly as he looked toward Immortal Void Rush.


    "Even though that Nascent Soul Realm cultivator from the Spirit Blood Sect has trapped this area with a formation, I am prepared for this. If my message cannot be conveyed within a certain time frame, more Nascent Soul Realm cultivators wille rushing over."


    Immortal Void Rush looked towards Kunlong Battle General and said, "What awaits them at that time will be total annihtion."


    Everyone''s spirits lifted. "So Senior Void Rush has preparations!"


    Fairy Yu hurriedly shouted, "Lord, did you hear that? Stop using your sword! If you die here, you know I will definitely go find you in the underworld river!"


    Fang Chen coughed lightly a few times and then smiled at Fairy Yu. "Whether there is an underworld in this world or not is still uncertain. If I die here today, your task will be to eliminate every Spirit Blood Sect cultivator in the world."


    Although his voice was not loud, everyone heard it, and a hint of resentment appeared in their eyes. That was hatred towards the Spirit Blood Sect.


    Kunlong Battle General, who had been emotionally detached all along, noticed that and his eyes became colder.


    Why did the Spirit Blood Sect always act cautiously in the past and not dare to engage directly with cultivators? It was because they feared this exact scenario!


    When things didn''t involve them directly, the Spirit Blood Sect existed only in legends. Even if cultivators discovered their traces, they would pretend not to notice and avoid getting involved. But once they got involved and those cultivators didn''t die, they would turn their swords toward the Spirit Blood Sect, obstructing their path.


    Fairy Yu forced a smile. "I will do it, but can you please not die?"


    Dongfang Haojie looked at Fairy Yu, then gazed deeply at Fang Chen. "So, their previous interactions with me were to ensure my safety. All of this is the result of his efforts."


    Suddenly, the pain he had felt when gave away his blood essence didn''t seem like much anymore.


    Xia Ji said, "Fang Da, listen to me, Immortal Void Rush told you not to wield your sword, listen to him!"


    "Amitabha¡­" a Buddhist chant suddenly sounded, and Xia Ji turned around in surprise to see Master Chanyuan and Immortal Fire Cloud walking step by step, with Wu Ruochou following behind.


    Xia Ji said, "Master, Senior Sister, I''m d you''re okay."


    The sixth princess hurriedly ran to Immortal Fire Cloud¡¯s side. "Master!"


    Master Chanyuan looked at Fang Chen and said softly, "Benefactor, although you haveprehended that Buddhist scripture, you still can¡¯t use it so wantonly."


    Fang Chen asked softly, "Why did someone tell me that they haven''t seen you outside the capital? The Buddha is supposed to save those suffering. As the abbot of Profound Void Temple, shouldn''t you intervene to save those in distress?"


    Xia Ji noticed that Fang Chen''s words were rife with hidden meaning, and he turned to him reflexively. "Fang Da?"


    Master Chanyuan sighed softly. "The Buddhist Path is indeed supposed to save those in distress, but when we are in distress, who wille to save us?"


    "I see. So, you joined the Spirit Blood Sect, became the Kunlong Battle General, and stationed yourself in Grand Qian, all for the Blood Spirit Pill and also to avenge the ughter of Profound Void Temple," Fang Chen continued. "You hate the Fang Family for ughtering the Profound Void Temple, you hate the Jue Family for standing aside, but... what do you hate Grand Qian for?"


    Master Chanyuan smiled with folded hands. "I hate them for their ignorance. I hate them for living their lives blindly. I hate them for being born as ants!"


    Fang Wanli, Princess Shenlong, and others were shocked.


    <em>How could it be¡­ Master Chanyuan is the Kunlong Battle General? Then who is the person currently refining the three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators?</em>


    Xia Ji''s face turned extremely ugly. "Master?!"


    Wu Ruochou was alsopletely stunned.


    Immortal Fire Cloud didn''t know what to make of this. <em>What''s going on?</em>


    Master Chanyuan looked at Xia Ji and smiled. "Xia Ji, you are too kind-hearted. Why did you not take any action even though you knew that Fang Lingxing had sent someone to kill your Senior Brother Liu? Now that I think about it, if I were to ask you to practice with me in the Spirit Blood Sect, I''m afraid you wouldn''t agree, right?"


    Fang Lingxing''s expression shifted erratically, and many people looked at her strangely.


    "Master, since you know how Senior Brother Liu died, why..." Xia Ji cut himself short. He had realized something, causing him to let out augh. "Senior Brother Liu didn''t die, did he?"


    Wu Ruochou gritted her teeth. "Master, Junior Brother, what''s going on?! What happened to Senior Brother Liu?!"


    Just then, Kunlong Battle General took off his silver mask and looked at Xia Ji.


    "Junior Brother."


    Xia Ji stepped back several steps. "Senior Brother Liu... you..."


    Lord Tiger looked horrified. He clearly... saw Senior Brother Liu''s head with his own eyes.


    <em>What¡¯s happening now? </em>


    "Xia Ji, there is actually no Master Chanyuan, and there is no Senior Brother Liu." Fang Chen sighed softly. "They have been the same person all along."


    He had seen this kind of clone technique from Supreme Immortal Pudu before.


    His eyes with golden lines could clearly see that there was an... imperceptible thread on Master Chanyuan and Senior Brother Liu.

 Chapter 447: You think youre the only one who can sacrifice their lifespan?

    <h4>Chapter 447: You think you''re the only one who can sacrifice their lifespan?</h4>


    They were the same person right from the start?!


    The crowd looked shocked.


    <i>Was there really such a clone technique that could be so real? Is this all an illusion, or is it real? </i>


    The expression of Immortal Void Rush shifted as if she realized something, and she said in a low voice, "Little Brother, kill this clone!"


    As soon as her words fell, the figure of Master Chanyuan dispersed like a dreamy bubble, dissolving into the air. The crowd could vaguely see him turning into an aura, merging into the body of Kunlong Battle General. The appearance of Kunlong Battle General began to change until he finally became exactly like Master Chanyuan.


    Xia Ji retreated a few steps, unable to believe his eyes.


    <i>There was never a Senior Brother Liu? The Senior Liu who waited for me five years, the Senior Liu who acted cold but was secretly warm-hearted.... wasn''t real? It was all fake? All just the clone of Master Chanyuan?</i>


    "Why is it like this...?" Wu Ruochou slowly walked to Xia Ji''s side and held onto his arm tightly. "Junior Brother, I don''t understand..."


    "Senior sister, pull yourself together. No matter what the truth is, the only thing we need to do now is to survive and foil the Spirit Blood Sect''s ns of refining the Hidden Cloud Region."


    Xia Ji looked conflicted, but his expression soon turned resolute. No one knew whether Master Chanyuan was a clone or the original. They only knew that after the two had merged, the aura of Kunlong Battle General soared significantly. Even though he wasn¡¯t at the middle stage of the Nascent Soul Realm, the zing spiritual mes around him became even hotter.


    The faces of the three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators immediately showed a touch of pain, and blood mist continued to emanate from their bodies as they were being refined by the spiritual mes!


    Kunlong Battle General looked at Fang Chen with a faint smile. "Benefactor Fang, how many more sword strikes can you unleash? You never had any chance of stopping everything from happening."


    He then looked indifferently at the three Nascent Soul cultivators as the spiritual mes around him suddenly surged.


    The voice of the female sword cultivator suddenly sounded. "Fang Chen, help me kill Qian Wuji, and I''ll join forces with you!"


    Qian Wuji was suddenly like an old cat whose fur stood on end. He instinctively bent, trying to use the treasure in his hand to repel everyone and escape from this ce temporarily.


    However, everything was already toote. The sword light approached from afar, and Qian Wuji only had time to scream in agony before being engulfed by the sword light.


    Fang Chen''s face became even older, and the others could even smell a peculiar smell faintly. This smell was something they could smell on elderly people who were about to die at home.


    It was the smell of death.


    "Ancestor... the... the Ancestor is dead..." Qian Feng and the other princes and princesses stared dumbly at the scene, while the Emperor of Great Qian remained silent, not expressing any opinion.


    Qian Jiuye and the crown prince stood together withplex expressions. With Qian Wuji dead, Princess Shenlong and the others immediately joined in.


    "Ancestor, you are wrong." Princess Shenlong looked at the empty space, her eyes slightly red.


    "Damn it, this old guy is finally dead." Fang Wanli cursed as he took out medicine and ate it. When teaming up with that female sword cultivator, he had been severely injured several times by Qian Wuji.


    It could be seen that Qian Wuji¡¯s strength was not weak even among the middle stage Golden Core Realm cultivators.


    ¡°Too bad about that treasure, it was actually destroyed by a single sword strike. It was a yellow rank peak grade treasure...¡± Fang Wanli muttered to himself, then looked towards Fang Chen. Seeing his elderly appearance, he found it unable to speak any further.


    "Senior Sister, don''t hurt the lord." Fairy Yu transformed into a stream of light andnded between the female sword cultivator and Fang Chen.


    The female sword cultivator''s expression wasplex as she said lightly, "Today is a special situation, I won''t trouble him for now, especially since..."


    She nced at Fang Chen and left a sentence unsaid in her heart.


    What trouble could a dying person have?


    After the person died, the sword embryo would naturally be retrieved, and everything would be settled.


    "Youngdy, what are your ns?" Fang Chen smiled.


    The female sword cultivator snorted coldly. "You think you''re the only one who can sacrifice their lifespan?"


    She walked toward the remaining Golden Core Realm cultivators, sword in hand.


    The crowd was slightly surprised. Could it be...


    Before they could think further, the female sword cultivator shed with her sword, but this strike waspletely different from Fang Chen''s previous strikes.


    The sword light was as bright as a gxy, and the surrounding spiritual energy surged madly, continuously converging into the sword''s momentum. Eventually, it turned into a terrifying sword intent that fell on a Golden Core Realm cultivator.


    Puchi!


    That unfortunate Golden Core Realm cultivator met his end then and there.


    However, the female sword cultivator''s appearance visibly aged at a speed almost visible to the naked eye. What was once a youthful appearance in her twenties had now aged to forty.


    "Her speed of aging is much faster than Fang Chen''s, and she''s a Golden Core Realm cultivator..."


    The crowd couldn''t help but gasp. With another sword cultivator forparison, they could understand just how terrifying Fang Chen''s previous strikes were.


    Kunlong Battle General asked, ¡°Void Immortal Sword. Are you a disciple of the Void Immortal Sword Sect?¡±


    <i>Void Immortal Sword Sect?!</i>


    Most people looked puzzled, but certain Golden Core and Nascent Soul Realm cultivators present seemed to recall something, their expressions turning extremely horrified.


    The Void Immortal Sword Sect! That was a sect within a first-tier empire. The Void Immortal Sword Sect once had its disciples insulted and their swords stolen. In response, a hundred thousand sword immortals descended upon them, uprooting an immortal cultivation n that had thrived for countless millennia since ancient times!


    Was that the same Void Immortal Sword Sect he was referring to?


    The female sword cultivator sneered. "Just figured that out?"


    She walked toward a Golden Core Realm cultivator. Coincidentally, it was Nie Tianyuan.


    He looked at Kunlong Battle General in terror.


    Dongfang Haojie gloated, "Nie Tianyuan, it''s finally your turn to die, you damn thing."


    "Youngdy, I can let you go today. You don''t have to get involved in this matter. How about it?" Kunlong Battle General said calmly.


    The female sword cultivator nced at him. "Your Spirit Blood Sect has already angered me. Let me go? Do you really think I''ll believe you?"


    With that, she swung her sword towards Nie Tianyuan, who could only scream in agony before meeting his end.


    Without another word, she moved on to the next Golden Core Realm cultivator. In a short time, all the remaining Golden Core Realm cultivators were killed by her.


    The female sword cultivator''s appearance became increasingly elderly and wasparable to Fang Chen.


    "Senior Sister!" Fairy Yu was heartbroken.


    The female sword cultivator said, ¡°Don''t worry. I''m in the Golden Core Realm and my lifespan is longer than your lord. I won¡¯t die for now."


    Now that only Kunlong Battle General remained, excitement appeared on everyone''s faces, as if there was hope in this situation.


    "Why has the surrounding spiritual mes intensified?!" someone suddenly eximed.


    Only then did everyone realize that the spiritual mes enveloping the three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators were more intense than before.


    "This is bad. After he merged with his main body, his strength increased significantly! Even without those Golden Core Realm cultivators helping, he can still refine the three Nascent Soul Realm seniors!"


    "We have to kill him, or at least disrupt his ns so he can''t refine the three seniors. That''s the only way we''ll survive!"


    Suddenly, Fang Wanli took a deep drink of wine and sprayed it toward the Kunlong Battle General, his wine turning into countless thousands of swords!


    Unfortunately, before his wine swords could approach the Kunlong Battle General, it was dissolved by the surrounding spiritual mes. Kunlong Battle General looked at everyone indifferently as a hint of mockery appeared in his eyes.

 Chapter 448 Bury Me at Three World Mountain

    <h4>Chapter 448 Bury Me at Three World Mountain</h4>


    "Senior Sister... Lord...."


    Fairy Yu suddenly felt intense hatred. Why was her cultivation so low that she couldn''t be of any help in this battle?


    Even though her senior sister reassured her, and it might be true that her senior sister wouldn¡¯t die temporarily, the loss of her lifespan would be hard to make up for. Without that lifespan, how could she advance to the next realm?


    The female sword cultivator looked at Fang Chen. "Next, you and I will join forces. Let''s see if we can harm him."


    Fang Chen spoke softly. "I''ll handle it. If I die, remember to take this sword and Fairy Yu back to the Void Immortal Sword Sect. If possible, let her use this sword; it will be more obedient that way."


    "Little Chen, I don''t want to go back to that Void Immortal Sword Sect. I want to be with you!" Little Sword murmured.


    "Be good. After I die, she can find you a better master,"forted Fang Chen.


    The female sword cultivator sneered. "You? It''s not that I''m underestimating you, but you¡¯re just in the Qi Refining Realm. Even though I don''t know what method you used to elevate yourbat power to this level, with just you alone, you will absolutely not be able to harm Nascent Soul Realm experts."


    Fang Chen smiled lightly. "Young Lady, I¡¯m not doubting your abilities, but based on your recent attacks, it''s even more impossible for you to harm them. What you can do now is to preserve your strength. Otherwise, do you think Fairy Yu can return to the Void Immortal Sword Sect with just her strength?"


    The female sword cultivator subconsciously wanted to retort, but when she saw the resolute determination in Fang Chen''s eyes, she swallowed the words she wanted to say.


    The female sword cultivator coldly snorted and chose to remain silent. <i>I want to see what tricks you have.</i>


    Fang Chen turned to look at Kunlong Battle General, his mind already silently visualizing the Third Sword of the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture.


    It was a pity that he wasn¡¯t in the Golden Core Realm; otherwise, his second sword would be enough to injure Nascent Soul Realm experts. Perhaps only the third sword has some chance now. But once he swung his sword, there would be no turning back.


    Was it worth it? Of course, it was. Without unleashing that sword, the Hidden Cloud Region would be destined to be a pill furnace, and Grand Xia would also be a Blood Spirit Pill!


    Kunlong Battle General suddenly opened his eyes, looking at Fang Chen seriously. "Benefactor Fang, can you really hurt me?"


    Fang Chen sighed lightly. "If I don''t try, how will I know? If that demoness had killed you back then, we wouldn''t be in this mess today."


    Kunlong Battle General chuckled lightly. "Benefactor Fang, if there was no Chanyuan in the world, there would be no Chan Jin or Chan Hui? The Spirit Blood Sect has so many cultivators, even I don¡¯t know them all. Benefactor Fang... will you be able to kill them all?"


    Fang Chen smiled. "And how can you be sure that there won''t be another me in the world?"


    Kunlong Battle General was slightly taken aback, then fell into silence. "Be honest with me, did you seek the other shore at the beginning and see the sea of suffering?"


    "Others think that the reason for your lifespan was because youprehended the essence of Buddhism," said Fang Chen, "but in reality, it was because you are in the Nascent Soul Realm. That was the real reason you were able to live for so long, right?


    "Since you have embarked on the path of evil, how could you possiblyprehend that sutra?"


    "Wrong," uttered Kunlong Battle General. "I have sought the other shore and seen the sea of suffering, that''s why I¡¯m doing what I¡¯m doing today. In that sea of suffering, countless heads of monks from the Profound Void Temple were drifting. They have no resting ce, so I must find them one. Otherwise, it''s too pitiful."


    Fang Chen smiled, raising Little Sword. "Do you really know what pitiful means?"


    He had already prepared his third sword.


    "Benefactor Fang, you can''t hurt me." Kunlong Battle General sighed lightly. "As long as I want, there''s no one I can''t hurt, especially not you."


    Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture, the third strike!


    Boom!


    The twelve immortal sword veins emitted a booming sound, and tides of spiritual energy continuously surged out!


    At that moment, it was like an avnche in the Tian Shan Mountains.


    Cracks faintly appeared on the immortal sword veins.


    "The spiritual energy is not enough!" Fang Chen''s eyes narrowed. He directly took out the Vajra Bodhi and consumed it. Then he took out the saint-grade Foundation Building Pill and swallowed it.


    <i>Still not enough?!</i>


    Fang Chen took out the Spirit Essence Pill he had prepared and swallowed them one by one. The different pills and spiritual materials instantly dissolved in his body. Even if there were no problems usually, consuming pills like this would lead to major consequences. Not to mention that Fang Chen was now performing the third sword of the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture!


    Fang Chen''s aura grew extremely chaotic, as the surrounding spiritual energy became half frenzied and half dead silent. The faces of the onlookers were filled with horror.


    ¡°Is that the Vajra Bodhi?! There are countless scales on it, and it seems to be breathing. It really is the Vajra Bodhi!¡±


    ¡°And that pill, it seems like a Foundation Building Pill, but also not quite....¡±


    ¡°If he consumed it like that, even if he doesn''t unleash his sword, I''m afraid...¡±


    Fang Tingjian and the other Golden Core Realm cultivators looked grave. Meanwhile, different expressions appeared on the faces of the three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators.


    ¡°Kill!¡±


    Fang Chen disregarded everything and directly shed with his sword.


    This sh, with a weaker and seemingly in momentum than before, effortlessly cut through the surrounding spiritual mes andnded on Kunlong Battle General¡¯s body.


    Pfft!


    A blood mark appeared on Kunlong Battle General¡¯s chest. He lowered his head to nce at it, then looked back at Fang Chen. The next moment, the surrounding spiritual mes instantly dissipated.


    ¡°Suppress!!!¡± Immortal Void Rush roared angrily, and a huge imprint that was capable of overturning the Heavens descended toward Kunlong Battle General.


    ¡°Kill!!!¡±


    Immortal White Tiger¡¯s killing intent surged as he spat out a golden bead that came crashing down at Kunlong Battle General.


    ¡°Amitabha.¡± The hands of the Supreme Expert Dragon Wood were like illusions, and in the next moment, these illusions materialized into a Thousand Hands Buddha, reaching out to Kunlong Battle General!


    At the same time, there were loud noisesing from the sky. Everyone understood that the Nascent Soul Realm cultivators had rushed over, and were engaging in a battle with the Spirit Blood Sect¡¯s Nascent Soul Realm cultivator.


    Fairy Yu and the others didn''t pay attention to the battle and instead rushed to Fang Chen''s side. Of them, Fairy Yu was the first to move, but when she was ten steps away from him, she saw that Fang Chen''s flesh had begun to wither and decay, leaving only a thinyer of skin wrapped around the bones.


    The female sword cultivator had aplex expression. ¡°Junior sister, he''s dead.


    She couldn''t understand how that sword could wound a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator. How could a mere Qi Refining Realm cultivator unleash such a sword?


    ¡°The lord won''t die!¡±


    Fairy Yu shook her head in denial and rushed to Fang Chen''s side. When she saw his withered face, she burst into tears.


    Zhang Xiaoke rushed over together with Xia Ji. The cultivators rted to Fang Chen all gathered around him. His current appearance was far from that of a living person, instead, he looked more like a corpse amidst a pile of bodies.


    ¡°Huh? Where''s his sword?¡± The female sword cultivator wanted to retrieve the sword, but she found that the sword was nowhere to be seen.


    The sixth princess''s mind was tumbling. ¡°Is Fang Chen really... gone?¡±


    Fang Jue suddenly looked towards Fang Wanli and Fang Tingjian, his face full of hope. ¡°Ancestor, there must be a way, right? Can''t those three Nascent Soul Realm seniors save Fang Chen?¡±


    Fang Tingjian carefully examined Fang Chen''s body and then shook his head. ¡°Nascent Soul Realm cultivators are not true immortals. How could they possibly have a resurrection technique?¡±


    Someone suddenly spoke up. ¡°There seems to be something written in front of him.¡±


    Everyone then noticed the small line of text written in front of Fang Chen.


    "Bury me at Three World Mountain."


    "Three World Mountain? Where is that?"


    Everyone looked puzzled, even Immortal Fire Cloud and the others had no idea where Three World Mountain was.


    Fairy Yu crouched down and picked up Fang Chen gently. "Junior Sister, I want to take him home."


    "I''ll apany you." The female sword cultivator nodded. She still needed to find that sword embryo, and it seemed like it was with Fang Chen. But she didn''t want to say it directly, as she was afraid that Fairy Yu would copse.


    ***


    Inside Fang Chen''s body, two voices were busymunicating, but no one else could hear them.


    "Old man, is what you said earlier true? Can Little Chen reallye back to life?"


    "Definitely, there is merit in the world, but merit is invisible and intangible. What he has done this time is equivalent to saving countless lives in the Hidden Cloud Region. It is a great merit!"


    "If what you''re saying is true, I won''t call you an old thing anymore!"


    "Just wait for a while, trust me."

 Chapter 449: Wandering Ghost?

    Chapter 449: Wandering Ghost?


    Everyone carried back Fang Chen''s corpse, and Dongfang Haojie immediately raised the Dragon Bone Heavenly Lantern and shouted to everyone, "The battle between those in the Nascent Soul Realm is intense, be careful of the aftermath! Retreat!"


    Everyone turned a little anxious. They quickly evacuated outside the hunting ground in groups. During that period, countless gazes fell on Fang Chen''s body. Some of them looked dim while others showed gloating.


    At the same time, the sword wound on the chest of Kunlong Battle General continued to overflow with blood, and he was unable to stop it at all. Although his methods were strong, he was being suppressed and attacked by the three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators while injured.


    Suddenly, a roar came from the sky. "Kunlong Battle General, the mission has failed, we will retreat first!"


    Everyone saw the clouds in the sky slowly drift and several figures appeared high above, looking down at Kunlong Battle General.


    "Amitabha."


    Kunlong Battle General chanted a Buddhist mantra and turned into a golden light, flying toward the horizon.


    Seeing that Immortal White Tiger was about to pursue him, Immortal Void Rush reminded him, "Don''t pursue a desperate enemy."


    Immortal White Tiger stopped in his tracks and red hatefully in the direction Kunlong Battle General had left."Indeed, we shouldn''t pursue him." Supreme Expert Dragon Wood nodded gently. "If his aplices are lurking nearby, chasing after him would be akin to walking into their trap. Anyway, the cmity in the Hidden Cloud Region has been resolved. Fang Tingyuan''s descendant is quite formidable. Those few sword strikes made even my heart leap in fear."


    Immortal White Tiger frowned, then turned into a stream of light and flew toward Fang Chen.


    Immortal Void Rush and Supreme Expert Dragon Wood flew to those figures in the air.


    Immortal Void Rush frowned slightly. "Why are you sote?"


    "We were dyed by the other side. It''s not just Kunlong who was cooking a scheme, but the Spirit Blood Sect¡¯s Yulong was also nning something on the other side. Fortunately, we managed to stop them."


    "If they had seeded in their ns, the Hidden Cloud Region would have truly fallen into cmity."


    "We still need to clean up over there. We''ll leave this to the two of you. Be cautious of Immortal White Tiger; we''re still not sure if he has any connection with the Spirit Blood Sect."


    With that, several Nascent Soul Realm cultivators left. Fang Chen saw that and felt astonished. Those cultivators should be from the Killing Spiritual Division. He knew that Immortal Void Rush was also from that division, but he did not expect the Supreme Expert Dragon Wood to also be a member of that division.


    "We were careless this time. We really didn''t expect Kunlong Battle General to be so strong. In the end, his lifespan had been exhausted by a junior. Only then did we have a glimmer of hope," murmured Immortal Void Rush softly.


    "Amitabha." Supreme Expert Dragon Wood chanted a Buddhist mantra and said softly, "Fang Chen sacrificed himself to save countless creatures in the Hidden Cloud Domain. We should remember this kindness."


    "If Fang Tingyuan knew that his descendant was like this, he would feel relieved."


    Immortal Void Rush sighed softly. "If he didn''t die, with his talent and character, he would have killed countless Spirit Blood Sect cultivators to stabilize the Azure Cloud Empire."


    "Destiny and fate," said Supreme Expert Dragon Wood. "This matter has yet to be set in stone. I wonder if those monks from Profound Void Temple were Spirit Blood Sect cultivators."


    ¡°Kunlong Battle General is Chanyuan, and he was the only novice monk from Profound Void Temple who survived back then.¡± Immortal Void Rush sneered. "Today, we can be certain that there were hidden motives when Profound Void Temple acted. Perhaps some of the people who Fang Tingyuan offended in the Central Continent came from the Spirit Blood Sect."


    "Immortal Void Rush, without solid evidence, our spections are just empty talk. Let''s go clean up the aftermath," said Supreme Expert Dragon Wood softly.


    The two flew toward the direction of the inner capital, with Fang Chen following behind. Ever since he had executed thatst strike, he noticed that his divine soul had left his body and couldn''t return inside. His physical body hadpletely lost its vitality and was unable to contain his soul. It was as if he had turned into a wandering soul.


    Fang Chen''s expression shifted as a thought struck him. "Oh right, Abbess Qing He can see wandering souls. I wonder if she can see me in this state?"


    He found where Abbess Qing He was and moved to stand in front of her.


    Abbess Qing He followed Fairy Yu and others closely, her gaze constantly fixed on Fang Chen''s corpse. Her eyes were red-rimmed from crying.


    Standing in front of her, Fang Chen said, "Can you see me?"


    Abbess Qing He showed no response. She only looked at his corpse asionally as she softlyforted Fang Qingyao.


    Fang Chen furrowed his brows, lost in thought. "You can''t see me? Then I can''t be considered a wandering soul. Just¡­ if my body rots, where can my soul go? Will I just drift in the world like this?"


    At that moment, Immortal White Tigernded in front of everyone out of the blue, causing them to stop instinctively.


    ¡°Let me take a look at him,¡± said Immortal White Tiger as he intended to observe Fang Chen.


    However, the female sword cultivator stepped forward and said in a hoarse and stern voice, "Back off."


    Immortal White Tiger was slightly taken aback. He looked at the female sword cultivator with a hint of embarrassment. She belonged to the Void Immortal Sword Sect, and he didn''t dare to offend her.


    Immortal White Tiger exined, "Young Lady, I just want to see if there''s any way to revive him."


    Fang Tingjian and the others, who were initially wary, were surprised at Immortal White Tiger''s intervention. They knew that Immortal White Tiger seemed to have an issue with Fang Chen. They didn''t expect him to want to revive Fang Chen.


    <em>Was he telling the truth or not?</em>


    Fairy Yu quickly looked to Immortal White Tiger for confirmation. "Senior, do you really have the ability to revive the lord?"


    "Youngdy, I''m not sure, but I saw him consume a Vajra Bodhi earlier. You should all know that this is a rare spiritual herb of the Profound Rank, right?"


    Immortal White Tiger treated Fairy Yu with great respect because she was also a disciple of the Void Immortal Sword Sect.


    ¡°As everyone knows, once a spirit herb reaches the Profound Rank, it bespletely different from a herb of the Yellow Rank. Simply put, this is something that cultivators at the Middle Three Realms would use. Even for us, it''s rare toe across a low-grade, yellow-rank spiritual herb," Immortal White Tiger exined.


    "Moreover, this item is extremely beneficial for demon cultivators because it can enhance their vitality. Why do demon cultivators have longer lifespans than human cultivators? It''s because their blood qi is much richer, and their foundation is iparable to human cultivators.


    "If he consumed the Vajra Bodhi, there may still be a trace of its medicinal properties remaining in his body. As a demon, I know how to activate these medicinal properties. Let me try to stimte these properties. Perhaps it might bring him back to life."


    Fairy Yu turned to look at the female sword cultivator.


    The female sword cultivator furrowed her brows and pondered for a moment before nodding gently. "What he said makes some sense."


    Immortal Void Rush and Supreme Expert Dragon Wood descended from above andnded in front of Immortal White Tiger.


    Immortal Void Rushed asked calmly, "Immortal White Tiger, you don''t have any other motives, do you?"


    Immortal White Tiger turned furious. "Are you insinuating something? Although I have a bad temper, I know where to draw the line. Today, we were able to survive because of him! If my ancestors offended him in the past, that''s their business. Now, I owe him a favor, and that''s my responsibility!

 Chapter 450: Golden Core Carrying the Coffin, Nascent Soul Opening the Way!

    Chapter 450: Golden Core Carrying the Coffin, Nascent Soul Opening the Way!


    <em>His words are quite reasonable¡­?</em>


    Everyone¡¯s expression turned strange.


    Fang Chen looked up and down at Immortal White Tiger, trying to confirm whether he was actually trying to help or if he was just harboring any ulterior motives toward Little Sword.


    He knew that this whole incident had brought Little Sword¡¯s existence to light, something ordinary cultivators might not notice but would definitely be discovered by the Nascent Soul Realm cultivator.


    Thinking about that, Fang Chen looked at his own corpse. He saw that Little Sword and the Mirror of the Universe were both within his body.


    Fang Chen sighed lightly. Little Sword did not listen to him in the end.


    After obtaining everyone''s permission, Immortal White Tiger arrived beside Fang Chen¡¯s corpse. His palm-like ws lightly touched Fang Chen''s body. A faint white light slowly lit up, and the onlookers saw a red mist circting within Fang Chen''s body!


    Immortal White Tiger revealed slight joy. "Everyone, there are still remnants of the Vajra Bodhi''s medicinal properties."


    Then, he guided the red mist to circte around, as if he was using a special technique.After about a quarter of an hour, the red mist became increasingly faint until it finally dissipated, but Fang Chen''s body remained like a dry corpse, showing no signs of recovery.


    "It''s not working, he''s truly dead..." Immortal White Tiger furrowed his brow slightly, then nced at everyone. "Who among you is closest to him? I owe him a favor, so I''ll repay it to you instead."


    Suddenly, a voice spoke up out of nowhere. ¡°Senior, I think that you should wait to repay this favor to Lord Fang. I feel like he won''t die.¡±


    All eyes turned to the source of the voice to find a young man dressed as a Daoist.


    <em>Li Daoye? </em>


    The expressions of Abbess Zhu Yue and the others changed slightly.


    "Heh heh, he won¡¯t die?"


    Immortal White Tiger chuckled lightly. He shook his head and turned to leave.


    The crowd thought that Li Daoye was speaking nonsense; Fang Chen lookedpletely dead. If even a Nascent Soul Realm couldn''t revive him, how could hee back to life?


    In a private courtyard of the Fang Family.


    Fang Chen was lying on a bed, with Fairy Yu by his side, unwilling to leave.


    Xia Ji and the others were gathered around Li Daoye in the courtyard.


    "Are you Li Daoye? I heard from Fang Da that you''re good at divination. Tell us, what did you mean just now? Is he still alive? Is this corpse fake? Did he use some kind of escape technique? Hm, knowing him, that''s possible."


    Xia Ji fired off questions rapidly, leaving Li Daoye speechless several times.


    Fang Chen, who was observing by the side, chuckled helplessly. Xia Ji was too confident in him. Using an escape technique in front of a Nascent Soul Realm expert?


    He wished.


    Wu Ruochou suddenly spoke up. "Junior Brother, give him a chance to speak."


    Xia Ji closed his mouth.


    Li Daoye rolled his eyes before speaking seriously, "I''ve made some calctions. Although not very clear, I felt a sudden enlightenment. My feeling tells me that Lord Fang isn''tpletely dead and can still survive!"


    ¡°Feel?!¡±


    Fang Qingyao and Abbess Qing He exchanged a nce, feeling that Li Daoyi was too unreliable. He was relying on a mere hunch at a time like this?


    Li Daoye tried to exin, but the crowd didn''t listen. ¡°It''s not just a feeling. You should know that I now possess the inheritance of the Yi Sect and have the Divination of the Stars to support me¡­.¡±


    Xia Ji said solemnly, ¡°Regardless, we will send Fang Da back to Three World Mountain. That is his wish. Since he can''t walk, can''t speak, and can''t open his eyes, I''ll be his eyes and his legs.¡±


    Wu Ruochou asked softly, ¡°Junior Brother, is Three World Mountain far?¡±


    ¡°Senior Sister, wait for me in Grand Qian. I don¡¯t want too many people to go there. If Fang Da is going to rest there in the future, I hope he can be peaceful, lest some enemiese looking for trouble,¡± Xia Ji said softly.


    The Hidden Cloud Region was vast, besides those who came from Grand Xia, who else would know where Three World Mountain was? Even if it''s a ce with the same name, there are probably quite a few.


    At that moment, Li Cang walked over slowly, bowed to the crowd, and announced, ¡°E-Everyone, someone wants toe and mourn for the Young Master.¡­¡±


    Xia Ji instantly exploded when he heard that. He stood up, and cursed, ¡°Mourn?! Is he dead?! Did he personally tell you he''s dead?! Ask them to fuck off!¡±


    Li Cang turned around and responded, ¡°Yes, I''ll make them leave immediately.¡±


    Outside the private courtyard, there were many cultivators from various factions, some of whom were saved by Fang Chen personally, while others he indirectly saved.


    Everyone wanted toe to pay their respects and express gratitude to Fang Chen. Fang Ao and his wife stood at the front gate of the private courtyard and tried to maintain order. Some other Foundation Building Realm cultivators from the Fang Family also came, as they were afraid that there would be remnants of Spirit Blood Sect amongst those people. If Fang Chen''s body were to be desecrated, it would hurt countless Grand Qian cultivators'' hearts.


    "Young Master Xia Ji said that he¡¯s not dead yet, so there''s no need for anyone to be worried. Please go back," Li Cang announced loudly as he arrived at the entrance of the courtyard.


    With that, he turned around and closed the gate with a bang.


    The crowd looked at each other in confusion. Fang Ao and his wife sighed softly and then looked at the crowd. "Please go back."


    The crowd sighed softly and started leaving one by one.


    "Open the gate, let me see Brother Fang Chen. I am Dongfang Haojie, and this person beside me is Fairy Tianyin from the Purple Pole Dao Academy," Dongfang Haojie said as he emerged from the crowd and knocked on the door.


    The gate opened again, and Li Cang whispered softly, "Pleasee in."


    Dongfang Haojie and Fairy Tianyin quickly entered the private courtyard, but they could only stand at a distance and take a nce at Fang Chen because Fairy Yu didn''t allow them toe closer. Also, with the presence of that female sword cultivator, Dongfang Haojie didn''t dare to act recklessly.


    Dongfang Haojie took out the Dragon Bones Heavenly Lantern and looked at the crowd. "Sigh... Everyone, thisntern belongs to Brother Fang Chen. I have filled it but who should I hand it over to?"


    Xia Ji suggested, "Give it to Fairy Yu. She has had a good rtionship with Fang Da ever since they were young."


    Fang Qingyao''s eyes dimmed slightly. It turned out that Fairy Yu, who was famous in Grand Xia, was childhood friends with Fang Chen.


    "Just give it to me, and I''ll pass it on to my junior sister," the female sword cultivator said as she walked out and took the Dragon Bones Heavenly Lantern.


    ¡°Then I''ll take my leave. If you evere to Great Wei in the future, be sure to look for me. You are friends of Brother Fang Chen, which means you are also friends of mine!¡± Dongfang Haojie proimed before leaving with Fairy Tianyin.


    Li Daoye suddenly looked towards a corner in the shadows. "Fourth Uncle... why are you hiding there?"


    The crowd was slightly surprised, and in the next moment, they saw a figure walking out from the shadows.


    Just as the female sword cultivator was about to make a move, Nong Guiquan stepped forward and bowed to her. "Please don''t misunderstand. I am with Young Master Fang."


    Xia Ji had some suspicions as he scrutinized Nong Guiquan, but as Li Daoye had identified him as his fourth uncle, no one doubted him any longer.


    Nong Guiquan tossed a storage ring and immediately disappeared back into the shadows. However, before he left, he said, "These were all Spirit Blood Sect cultivators that Young Master Fang wanted me to kill. Their heads are all inside. If... he really isn''t dead, remember to have him settle the ounts for me in the future. What he gave me in advance¡­ wasn''t quite enough."


    The crowd took the storage ring and nced inside, startled by the gruesome sight of over a hundred bloody heads.


    ¡°Indeed, Fang Da is impressive to have found such skilled individuals...¡± Xia Ji murmured softly.


    The next day, under the supervision of the three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators, the aftermath in the Imperial Capital was mostly cleaned up. Although there were casualties everywhere, when carefully counted, not many people had died. At the very least, the Spirit Blood Sect suffered heavier losses, as a number of their Foundation Building Realm cultivators were in.


    Almost everyone knew that it was two sword cultivators who had turned the tide and given them a chance at survival.


    Suddenly, the people on the street stopped in their tracks and looked in front of them. They saw Fang Tingjian and Fang Wanli carrying a jade coffin, slowly heading towards the city gates with numerous members of the Fang Family following behind.


    In the next moment, three figures descended from the sky. The pupils of the crowd contracted sharply. It was the three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators!


    Golden Core carrying the coffin, Nascent Soul opening the way!


    Nascent Soul cultivators performing the ritual to assist the soul''s transition to the afterlife!


    The people immediately realized that inside the jade coffin was the sword cultivator from the Fang Family who had sacrificed himself!


    Only he was worthy of such treatment!

 Chapter 451: Can the Dead Come Back to Life?

    <h4>Chapter 451: Can the Dead Come Back to Life?</h4>


    Fang Chen stood in mid-air as he silently observed the scene below. "It''s quite a strange feeling to be alive and witness my own funeral."


    His bodyy horizontally in a jade coffin that was made out of a specially crafted material that preserved his body from decay. That was something sponsored by the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion. Many people came today, including Golden Core Realm cultivators and Foundation Building Realm cultivators. Even though the procession had left the inner capital, there were still numerous people gathered outside the capital. Everyone remained silent, with no one daring to make noise at this moment.


    Fang Chen paid attention to their expressions. Be it mortal or cultivator, about eighty to ny percent of them showed gratitude. However, there were some cultivators who subtly took joy in his death, which was understandable as they were descendants of the five major families. There were even some whose eyes showed resentment as they looked at him. There were about five individuals who looked at him that way. Their cultivations weren''t that high, merely at the Qi Refinement Realm. Without surprise, they were remnants of the Spirit Blood Sect.


    Fang Chen retracted his gaze from them. "Too bad they can''t hear what I''m saying, but... just five Qi Refining Realm cultivators won''t be able to cause trouble in the Imperial Capital of Great Qian anytime soon."


    The procession had now reached the city gate of the outer capital. The three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators stopped and watched as Fairy Yu and the others received the jade coffin from the Fang Family members.


    Fang Tingjian looked toward Fairy Yu and the rest of them. ¡°Everyone, do you really not want me to escort you? He''s a Fang Family member. The family''s blood runs through him.¡±


    Fairy Yu''s face was cold. "Don''t bother. If the lord hadn''te to Great Qian to acknowledge his ancestry, he wouldn''t have ended up like this."


    She then turned to look at the jade coffin containing Fang Chen. She wanted to touch his face, but the coffin was in the way.


    "Let''s go, let''s go," whispered Xia Ji, then nodded lightly to Wu Ruochou in the crowd. "Senior sister, wait for me here. I''lle back to find you after I send Fang Da off."


    Wu Ruochou''s eyes were somewhat distracted. "Junior brother, there¡¯s only the two of us left. You must remember toe back."


    Xia Ji nodded. "Definitely."


    "I''ll also apany the lord," suddenly came Fang Qingyao''s voice as she walked over and looked at Fairy Yu.


    "You?" Fairy Yu was indifferent, but she observed Fang Qingyao for a moment before nodding slightly. "Regardless, you have walked this path, and the lord has also put in some effort for you. It''s reasonable for you to apany him."


    The sixth princess said hesitantly, "Third Brother..."


    Xia Ji said with a smile, "Sixth Sister, follow Immortal Firecloud diligently. Don''t ck off in your cultivation."


    The sixth princess nodded slightly after a moment of silence.


    Fang Qingyao bowed to Abbess Zhu Yue. "Master, after I apany the lord this time, I''ll start my training."


    Abbess Zhu Yue didn''t say much and simply nodded. "Mm."


    "You can¡¯t leave me out." Zhang Xiaoke walked towards everyone with a smile. He looked at the peasant woman and Yan Ruyue. "Master, Senior Sister, after I send off the lord, I''ll also go for training and won''t be returning with you."


    Yan Ruyue became somewhat anxious, but the peasant nodded gently. "You can handle things as you wish, just remember that if you encounter any difficulties, you cane to me at any time."


    Zhang Xiaoke bowed respectfully. "Thank you for amodating me during this time, I won''t forget this."


    Li Daoye suddenly spoke up. "Um... can I also apany Fang Da?"


    Big-eyed Li instinctively moved to stop him upon hearing that.


    Both Fairy Yu and Xia Ji refused at the same time. "You can''t."


    Li Daoye felt wronged. "Why not!"


    The four of them lifted the jade coffin and set off.


    Xia Ji didn''t stop the female sword cultivator from following them due to her rtionship with Fairy Yu. After all, the female sword cultivator had also sacrificed her youth; otherwise, Fang Chen would not have had the chance to execute his final strike.


    Fang Chen stood in ce, watching his own body leave, a touch ofment in his eyes.


    "Immortal Void Rush, although we disrupted the Spirit Blood Sect''s ns this time, if they persist, we won''t be able to defend against them," said Immortal White Tiger.


    Immortal Void Rush and Supreme Expert Dragon Wood nced at each other.


    "I have transmitted everything that happened here through transmission talisman," Immortal Void Rush said softly. "Soon, all the empires in the Hidden Cloud Region will know what happened in Great Qian. With this as a warning, there shouldn''t be any more chaos in the Hidden Cloud Region."


    "Knowing the Spirit Blood Sect, they will change their target. They won''t waste time in the Hidden Cloud Region any longer," Supreme Expert Dragon Wood said, sping his hands together.


    Immortal White Tiger was somewhat shocked. "Does this mean that the Spirit Blood Sect won''t be causing trouble in the Hidden Cloud Region anymore?"


    Immortal Void Rush nodded lightly. "Some minor disturbances are inevitable, but using the Hidden Cloud Region as a base is no longer possible."


    Upon hearing that, Fang Tingjian, Fang Wanli, Princess Shenlong, Immortal Tianwu, Jiang Shun, and other Golden Core Realm cultivators breathed a sigh of relief.


    Fang Chen''s eyes brightened. "So the Spiritual Killing Division still has such a purpose."


    It was evident that there were Killing Spiritual Division cultivators in various ces. They were colleagues of Immortal Void Rush, and with them responsible for spreading the word, the Spirit Blood Sect''s conspiracy would soon be exposed to the public!


    After pondering for a moment, Fang Chen bowed to Immortal Void Rush and the others before turning to catch up with the others leaving with the jade coffin.


    "My soul has not been extinguished, and if my body doesn''t decay, there''s still a chance for me to revive. If that doesn''t work, I''ll follow the example of Supreme Immortal Pudu and find a suitable body to possess. But living people won''t do; I''ll need someone who died recently. I''ll see If I can take over a body like that" Fang Chen contemted quietly while sitting on the jade coffin.


    The Kunlong Dragon Battle General had seen him in his infancy and knew about the existence of Grand Xia. Besides Xia Xuanji, he was probably the one in the Spirit Blood Sect who understood Fang Chen''s secrets the most.


    "Their ns this time around were disrupted, so they might take it out on Grand Xia. If I manage toe back to life, I might have a way to deal with it. If not...."


    Fang Chen looked toward Xia Ji. With his brain, he should be able to figure it out.


    Suddenly, Xia Ji looked towards the female sword cultivator. "The Kunlong Battle General has been to Grand Xia and knows that Fang Chen is from there. He might seek revenge for this. Could you help out and ask a few senior sword cultivators to assist?"


    Fairy Yu¡¯s expression brightened and looked at the female sword cultivator immediately. "Senior sister, my roots are in Grand Xia!"


    "Since you are a disciple of the Void Immortal Sword Sect, then Grand Xia is the ancestral home of the Void Immortal Sword Sect. How can we, as sword cultivators, allow our ancestral home to be insulted?" The female sword cultivator coldly snorted. "You don''t have to remind me. I have alreadymunicated within the sect. Senior sword cultivators wille to join us. At that time..."


    She nced at Fang Chen''s coffin, then at Fairy Yu. "We need to talk about that sword embryo. If you know anything, speak up. The elders won''t make things difficult for you."


    Fairy Yu replied softly, "I don''t know much about his situation. But if you can bring him back, I believe he will tell us the truth."


    The female sword cultivator sighed inwardly, not saying more. She knew Fairy Yu was pinning her hopes on the senior of the sword sect. But... can the dead reallye back to life?

 Chapter 452: An Unremarkable Incense Path Cultivator

    <h4>Chapter 452: An Unremarkable Incense Path Cultivator</h4>


    In the blink of an eye, half a month went by.


    On the boundless sea, arge ship sailed through wind and waves. Aside from the ship crew and the shipmaster, it only carried a few passengers as they had paid a hefty sum to book the entire ship.


    "We''ll be arriving at Three World Mountain soon," said Xia Ji as he stood on the deck and gazed into the distance quietly. In his mind, memories of a battle from six years ago resurfaced. That battle had been incredibly brutal, the most tragic he had ever witnessed in his life. Countless soldiers of Grand Xia fell on Three World Mountain, including many peers of his and Fang Chen. They had been friends and brothers with whom they had shared wine.


    "If it weren''t for the Spirit Blood Sect''s interference in that battle, would Fang Da have suffered such a devastating loss? At that time, he was no different from me, just an ordinary mortal."


    Xia Ji turned slowly, looking towards the nearby jade coffin. Fairy Yu, Zhang Xiaoke, and Fang Qingyao stood vigil by the coffin, never leaving Fang Chen''s side.


    It was as if by watching it, Fang Chen would miraculouslye back to life.


    "Li Daoye said Fang Da won''t die. His words shouldn''t be baseless. Also, during this time, strange things have happened to me and Fairy Yu..." Xia Ji thought to himself.


    During this period, his cultivation had unexpectedly advanced, reaching the 11th stage of the Qi Refining Realm. Every breath he took seemed to draw in countless spiritual energy. Before long, he would be able to advance to the twelfth stage of the Qi Refining Realm.


    The changes weren''t limited to Xia Ji alone; they were also evident in Fairy Yu, the female sword cultivator, Fang Qingyao, and Zhang Xiaoke. However, the changes in Fang Qingyao and Zhang Xiaoke were not significant, and they had only advanced by a small realm. On the other hand, the female sword cultivator was different. Her appearance, originally aged, had reverted to the look of a woman in her forties in just half a month. As for Fairy Yu, her cultivation had surged to the peak of the 12th stage of Qi Refining Realm!


    After those changes urred, Fang Qingyao once said it was because of their good deeds, that the Heavens had rewarded them with merits. If the Hidden Cloud Region had been turned into a furnace by the Spirit Blood Sect, countless lives would have perished. Everyone present had yed some role in that event to some extent, thus gaining varying degrees of merits.


    One crucial point was that none of them intentionally did anything for the sake of merits. That was the key to obtaining merits, something many cultivators understood but found challenging to do.


    Xia Ji frowned slightly, looking at Fang Chen in the jade coffin who showed no signs of change. "Fang Da yed a crucial role in this matter and one might even say it was decisive..."


    "But why didn''t he receive merits from Heaven? Is it because Heaven has already deemed him dead?"


    Just then, a sh of sword light streaked across the sky andnded on the ship''s deck, transforming into an old man in white robes. The ship''s owner and crew were shocked and came out to see what happened.


    "Elder Huang!"


    The female sword cultivator''s eyes lit up, immediately going forward to greet him with a sped fist. Seeing that, the ship''s owner and crew silently retreated. Since that elder was acquainted with their passengers, they naturally didn''t interfere.


    The old man in white robes frowned slightly. "You''ve depleted quite a bit of your lifespan."


    The female sword cultivator smiled bitterly. "Indeed, I''ve depleted quite a bit, but thankfully, the Heavens have granted me some merits, whichpensated much for it."


    Xia Ji''s eyes showed a hint of seriousness. "Could this be a Nascent Soul Realm sword cultivator?"


    Standing beside him, Fang Chen couldn''t help but feel a sense of admiration. The aura emanating from this old man in white robes was far superior to even Kunlong Battle General. He was likely in the mid-stage of Nascent Soul Realm. A cultivator like that surely had unimaginably strong capabilities.


    "You inadvertently prevented the Spirit Blood Sect from using the Hidden Cloud Region as a cauldron and gained quite a bit of merits. However, these merits clearly didn''t fullypensate for all your losses," said the old man in white robes.


    The female sword cultivator nced at the jade coffin and spoke softly. "This person yed a crucial role in stopping the Spirit Blood Sect."


    The old man in white robes looked towards the jade coffin and said calmly, "Is our stolen sword embryo in his hand? Has he already nurtured it into a destiny flying sword?"


    At that moment, Fairy Yu walked over slowly. She was reluctant to leave the jade coffin, but she was also afraid that the old man in white robes would be angry because of the sword embryo.


    "Elder Huang, there might be some misunderstandings in this matter. Based on what I know about this person, he doesn''t have the ability to steal the sword embryo from our Void Immortal Sword Sect," whispered the female sword cultivator.


    The old man in white robes chuckled lightly. "The one who stole the sword embryo is an insignificant Daoist cultivator who walks the path of incense and calls himself Supreme Immortal Pudu. We are currently pursuing him."


    Upon hearing that, Fang Chen almost burst outughing.


    <i>Supreme Immortal Pudu has been identified? Then he doesn''t need to bear the me of stealing the sword embryo.</i>


    The female sword cultivator was slightly surprised. "Elder Huang, are you suggesting that... he knows Supreme Immortal Pudu?"


    "The lord doesn¡¯t know him!" Fairy Yu immediately said, bowing respectfully to the old man in white robes. "Please enlighten us, Elder Huang."


    The old man in white robes said lightly, "Of course, he doesn''t know Supreme Immortal Pudu. After stealing the sword embryo, that person hid it in a ce so remote we never noticed it. To be able to stumble upon the sword embryo and nurture it into a flying sword should be considered fate."


    Fairy Yu breathed a sigh of relief.


    She knew that although these sword cultivators could be a bit hot-headed, they were always fair in their judgments. Once they understood the cause and effect, they wouldn''t vent their anger on unrted individuals.


    "Beforeing to see you, I went to the Great Qian Imperial Capital. The situation is consistent with what you''re saying," the old man in white robes said, looking at the jade coffin. "This person, with his Qi Refining Realm cultivation, can injure a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator with a single sword strike, disregarding life and death, cutting off the past and present, and ending up with such a fate. You can say he''s foolish, but at least he has the air of a sword cultivator."


    Pausing for a moment, he continued, "Since he obtained the sword embryo from our Void Immortal Sword Sect and cultivated the inheritance within the Sword Embryo to be a sword cultivator, then he can be considered a disciple of our Void Immortal Sword Sect."


    The female sword cultivator was suddenly stunned. "Inheritance within the sword embryo!?"


    The old man in white robes smiled. "Some sword embryos have remarkable origins and carry the inheritance of sword cultivation within them. Since this individual nurtured a flying sword from the sword embryo, naturally, he also obtained the inheritance within."


    The female sword cultivator suddenly realized that all of Fang Chen''s previous sword techniques stemmed from that sword embryo!


    Fang Chen was slightly surprised. "This senior knows that Little Sword carries an inheritance?"


    He was puzzled as to why the old man would call him a disciple of the Void Immortal Sword Sect when he was already dead. What was the reason for the Void Immortal Sword Sect to do this?


    The old man in white robes suddenly asked, "Oh right, what''s his name? After I return, I''ll help him register."


    "His name is Fang Chen! Fang as in the square shape, and Chen as in dust," Fairy Yu hastily replied.


    "Fang Chen? Alright." The old man in white robes nodded lightly. "Next, follow me back to the Void Immortal Sword Sect. His remains will also be buried within the sect."


    Everyone was taken aback.


    The female sword cultivator smiled bitterly and said, "Elder Huang, he left a dying wish to be buried elsewhere...."

 Chapter 453: They Are All Waiting for You, Lord

    <h4>Chapter 453: They Are All Waiting for You, Lord</h4>


    The old man in white robes furrowed his brow slightly and indifferently said, "This won''t do, he must be buried in the Void Immortal Sword Sect."


    A hint of confusion appeared in the eyes of Xia Ji and the others.


    Why?


    Fang Chen was confused too. <i>What do they want with my corpse?</i>


    The old man exined, "The sword embryo he obtained is very special. Since he was the one who nurtured the flying sword, it will not change owners easily even after his death. Not even our sect leader can refine it. Now that he''s dead, burying him in the Void Immortal Sword Sect can allow our disciples to pay respects from time to time, this may lead the flying sword to recognize and acknowledge a new master."


    Fang Chen''s expression turned odd. "Let the disciples of the Void Immortal Sword Sect pay respects to me?"


    "No wonder that flying sword disappeared...."


    The female sword cultivator suddenly realized as her expression turnedplex. She had never heard of these things before, showing that the sword cultivators also had many customs and traditions.


    "Little Chen absolutely won''t die. That guy''s scheme is going to fail. He even wants me to acknowledge another person as my master? Delusional! I will only acknowledge Little Chen!"


    "Yes, he¡¯s delusional! Haha!"


    Inside the jade coffin, Little Sword and Mirror of the Universemunicated quietly.


    Xia Ji had a strange look as he thought, <i>So, that''s what this is all about....</i>


    The female sword cultivator looked at Fairy Yu. "Junior Sister, why not bury Fang Chen at our Extreme Sword Peak? You can visit him regrly."


    Fairy Yu shook her head resolutely. "No, we will bury him where he wants. Elder Huang, he won¡¯t be joining you."


    "What are you doing?" Elder Huang furrowed his brow slightly, seemingly about to scold her. However, he recalled something and swallowed the words down his throat. He fell silent for a few moments, then sighed and said, "Is there no room for negotiation?"


    Fairy Yu shook her head. "No."


    "In that case, if he''s to be recorded, you must tell me where he will be buried so that our disciples can visit and pay respects to him," Elder Huang sighed softly.


    Fairy Yu looked hesitant. "This...."


    Xia Ji suddenly spoke up. "Fairy Yu, this might not be a bad thing for Fang Da and for Grand Xia."


    Fairy Yu could only nod in agreement after hearing that. She asked, "Elder Huang, is there really no way to revive the lord? Our cultivations have increased considerably after what happened, and it wasrgely due to him. Shouldn¡¯t he have more merit?"


    Elder Huang gazed at the jade coffin and Fang Chen, who was a bag of skin and bones inside, for a moment before shaking his head gently, "To gain merits, one must be alive. Even if your soul remains intact after death, you cannot receive the merits bestowed by Heaven. Ghostly beings can only acquire Yin merits."


    Fang Chen pondered. "ording to what he''s saying, I should be able to gain merits. I am not a ghost right now; my divine soul is still intact..."


    The words of Elder Huang revealed a crucial piece of information that was extremely useful to Fang Chen. It was no wonder he suddenly saw a bunch of white qi descend from the sky and into his corpse a few days ago. However, no matter how much he checked, he couldn¡¯t find anything, as if everything that happened was just an illusion. Thinking back, that white qi should have been his merit. Whether these merits would help him revive from death was still unknown.


    Fairy Yu frowned. ¡°The lord won''t die so easily.¡±


    The white-robed elder chuckled lightly. ¡°He has exhausted his lifespan, if he still doesn''t die, he will be a First Rate Sect Leader in the future. But how high is this possibility? I believe you know in your heart.¡±


    Seeing Fairy Yu¡¯s expression bing uglier by the moment, the female sword cultivator quickly changed the subject. ¡°Elder Huang, how do you view the matter with the Spirit Blood Sect?¡±


    The white-robed elder smiled lightly. ¡°Me? What view can I have? Our peak master already knows about this matter, and a few days ago, he took two to three hundred people to find the Spirit Blood Sect. It¡¯s estimated that the Spirit Blood Sect will need to lose a dozen or so middle-three realm experts to settle this matter. If it weren''t for you guys, I would have gone with them too. I''ve been itching for a good fight for a long time, and was just worried that there wouldn''t be anyone for me to spar with.¡±


    Pausing for a moment, a cold light shed in his eyes, ¡°The Spirit Blood Sect''s actions have broken their own rules. Not only will our Void Immortal Sword Sect take action, but other sects won''t be idle either. I estimate that for a long time, they won''t dare to stir up trouble again. As for your fear of that Nascent Soul Realm cultivatoring back for revenge, you don''t need to worry too much, I''ll leave behind ten of my sword intents. If hees, just stay put. But I can say with certainty that he won''te. Right now, he''s probably being scolded by the upper echelons of the Spirit Blood Sect.¡±


    ¡°So domineering!¡±


    Fang Chen and Xia Ji eximed simultaneously.


    Thinking about how Spirit Blood Sect would lose more than ten middle three realm cultivators, both of them felt pleased.


    The middle three realms. That was the Enlightenment Realm! The Nascent Soul Realm was merely in the lower four realms!


    Fang Chen breathed a sigh of relief. "Grand Xia should be safe with these seniors leaving behind their sword intents."


    His current situation was quite unique as he was unsure when his physical body could revive, but at least those ten sword intents could protect Great Xia from harm when he couldn''t act.


    Three World Mountain.


    That ce was called Three World Mountain by Grand Xia, Qingsong, and other empires because there were three mountain ranges spanning thousands of miles, resembling three natural boundary lines, forming a triangr-shaped primitive forest.


    In a certain area of Three World Mountain, the soil was deep in color, somewhat brown and a little red. Looking down from above, it appeared as if a piece of robe had been stained with mottled bloodstains.


    Xia Ji stood in a crimson area and said softly, "Let''s bury him here, shall we? Fang Da once fought fiercely here for over a month."


    Zhang Xiaoke touched the soil on the ground and muttered to herself, "I was responsible for rying messages at that time and came here a few times too. Luckily, I didn''t stay behind with them."


    Fairy Yu gazed silently at the jade coffin.


    This was Fang Qingyao''s first timeing to Three World Mountain, and when she saw the scene here, she finally understood how intense the battles back then were.


    The female sword cultivator spoke softly, "Junior Sister, let''sy him to rest here first. With this jade coffin, his physical body won''t rot anyway."


    Fairy Yu nodded gently and then bent down to start digging. Seeing that, the female sword cultivator was about to use her sword, but Xia Ji and others also rolled up their sleeves to dig.


    "Senior sister, you don''t have to use your sword. Many of our brothers and sisters are buried here. Although they are dead, their souls may still be around. Using a sword might disturb them," Fairy Yu said without looking back.


    The female sword cultivator dispelled her thoughts. Aplex expression rose on her face as she grew curious about the rtionships and experiences of those people.


    While digging the grave, they uncovered several skeletons. They carefully arranged them and buried them along with the jade coffin, as if the skeletons were still guarding Fang Chen even after their death.


    After burying Fang Chen and when they were filling up the grave, everyone suddenly felt a violent gloomy wind sweeping through the mountain forest. The trees in the forest bent down under the strong wind, like tens of thousands of soldiers saluting.


    The elder in a white robe had a strange expression. "The Yin Qi is so heavy here. I''m afraid the soldiers who died here haven''t gone through reincarnation...."


    Xia Ji and the others who saw that sceneughed happily.


    Fairy Yu wiped her eyes and whispered softly, ¡°My Lord, they¡¯re all waiting for you.."


    Fang Chen stood at his grave, not sure if it was an illusion, but he seemed to see tens of thousands of figures appearing in the forest, bowing and saluting to him in a military gesture.


    A joyful smile appeared on his face, and he bowed back in return.

 Chapter 454: Its Time To Gather

    <h4>Chapter 454: It''s Time To Gather</h4>


    The white-robed old man took Xia Ji and the others with him when he left. Before leaving, he left three sword intents at Fang Chen''s grave. In his words, even if a cultivator in the middle three realms came here and saw the three sword intents, they would obediently leave without acting out of line.


    Fairy Yu did not leave with them but chose to stay behind alone. She built a wooden house near Fang Chen''s grave.


    Fairy Yu looked at the tombstone with a sly smile, then sat in front of it. "Lord, I couldn''t apany you often before, but starting from today, I''ll appear in front of you every day. Don''t think of me as a burden."


    She started sharing her experiences with the female sword cultivator after they went to the Virtual Immortal Sword Sect.


    Fang Chen sat quietly beside her, listening asionally and saying a few words. Unfortunately, Fairy Yu couldn''t hear him. After a few hours, she finally grew tired of talking and went back to her house to meditate and cultivate.


    Fang Chen''s gaze shifted toward the direction of Grand Xia. He didn''t go back with Xia Ji and the others because he knew that Xia Ji would be able to handle any problems with the white-robed elder and the female sword cultivator.


    Half a year passed by quickly, and Xia Ji and the female sword cultivator returned, looking weary.


    The female sword cultivator went to find Fairy Yu, while Xia Ji came to the grave and whispered softly, "In this half year, I rooted out some remnants of the Spirit Blood Sect. Now, Grand Xia, Qingsong, Longdu, and other countries havepletely returned to normal, and there shouldn''t be any problems in the short term. Senior Huang has also left seven sword intents in Grand Xia, which will be enough to protect it for a hundred years. After a hundred years, I should have enough strength to do something for Grand Xia."


    He paused for a moment and continued, "By the way, the emperor that you have chosen is not bad. Although he''s a bit young, with fifth uncle, Jiang Shangshu, and others looking after him, he''ll be a wise ruler."


    "I also visited your home. The old master is in good health and has advanced in cultivation. Your parents are traveling around, so I missed seeing them. As for your Second Uncle, he''s always in a wheelchair, but I clearly saw that his legs are fine. Oh, and his martial cultivation has reached the Heaven Profound Stage. As for Fang Zhixue, that girl has be the top expert of Grand Xia now, challenging others everywhere. Honestly, her fighting with cultivation methods against them is somewhat unsightly; you should talk to her about it when youe back to life."


    "Then there are your three demon disciples. I gave them some spirit stones, and they seemed quite loyal. With them guarding the Fang Manor, it''s an additional security measure."


    "Also, I went to that bun shop. The owner passed awayst year, and his son took over. The buns are still good, and they taste exactly the same as how we remember them from our childhood. When youe back to life, you should try them."


    Xia Ji rambled on for a while, and after some time, he suddenly fell silent for a few moments, then sighed and said, "I don''t dare to tell them your current situation. They all think you''re cultivating somewhere outside. I really don''t dare. Don''t me me."


    Fang Chen sighed softly. "Why would I me you...."


    The old master and the others didn''t know his current situation, which was a good thing. At least Grand Xia won''t experience any chaos because of him. Anyway, he was confident that he would eventuallye back to life. Instead of letting them worry for no reason, it''s better to keep it a secret for now.


    Just then, the female sword cultivator and Fairy Yu walked over together. From Fairy Yu¡¯s eyes, it was apparent that she had cried.


    "Lord, I can''t stay with you any longer. Senior sister said I''ve been stuck on the twelfth stage of Qi Refining Realm for quite some time, and it''s time for me to return and enter the Foundation Building Realm. I''lle back after sessfully establishing my foundation," choked Fairy Yu tearfully.


    "Junior Sister, when that timees, I''ll apany you here," the female sword cultivator said softly.


    Then, she nced at Xia Ji and said, "When you have time, you cane to Void Immortal Sword Sect to find us. Remember my name, I''m Jing Yuehan from the Extreme Sword Peak of Void Immortal Sword Sect."


    With that, the female sword cultivator and Fairy Yu left.


    Xia Ji watched them fly away, then took out wine and snacks, sitting at Fang Chen''s grave with him, drinking all night.


    The next day, Xia Ji slowly left with a slight hangover.


    Fang Chen waved at his leaving back and smiled. "Let''s meet again when the timees,"


    After Xia Ji had gone far, Fang Chen turned to look at the jade coffin, his gaze prating through the soil.


    In the jade coffin, there were some changes in his corpse. Under the waxen-yellow skin, there was a faint hint of blood color. This was a good sign, indicating that his physical body was recovering. Given enough time, his body should be able to recover, and he''de back to life.


    In the blink of an eye, another six months passed. Fang Chen calcted the time and realized he had been away from Grand Xia for nearly two years.


    During this time, asional travelers passed by and stayed in the wooden house. They would also light incense in front of his grave, treating him as the owner of the wooden house.


    "Is this the ce?"


    Suddenly, a figure appeared from afar, gradually approaching the grave. When the figure was about to reach the grave, it suddenly sped up like lightning and arrived at the grave.


    "No, it can''t be!"


    Fang Zhixue looked at the words on the tombstone, her eyes bing extremely red.


    "How did youe here, little sister?"


    Fang Chen furrowed his brows. Xia Ji clearly said he hadn''t told them about his situation, so how did she find this ce?


    Fang Chen sighed lightly. "Um... maybe it was mentioned by Xiaoke or Qingyao?"


    "My brother wouldn''t die so easily! I don''t believe it!" Fang Zhixue said while reaching out to dig the soil, but she immediately stopped. She remained silent for a while, then chuckled lightly. "They must be lying to me, I don''t believe it!"


    With that, Fang Zhixue turned and left.


    Fang Chen smiled. "She''s at the fourth stage of Qi Refining Realm now. It looks like her cultivation hasn''t fallen behind."


    He believed that Fang Zhixue would soon adjust her mindset. That girl had never needed others to worry about her from childhood to adulthood.


    Fang Chen nced at the jade coffin. Inside the coffin, his bones had changed slightly. The healthy redness under the skin was quite obvious, and even the body had be somewhat plumper than before, indicating his flesh and blood were replenishing.


    "As long as there''s enough time," murmured Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen smiled faintly and turned back to the wooden house.


    Time flew by, and another year passed in the blink of an eye, weing winter once again.


    A massive tiger stepped on the thick snow and slowly approached the grave. It knelt down and kowtowed nine times before running into the mountain forest to settle down, asionallying back to the grave to wander around a few times.


    Fang Chen shook his head lightly. "Mountain Tiger Lord came too...."


    Several monthster, Xu Ge, Tie Ma, Huang Sihai, Zhao Yan, and ten or so other figures arrived at the grave.


    "We''vee to see you, lord," Xu Ge said as he arranged the wine.


    Fang Chen stood aside, watching these Grand Xia Hidden Guards, feeling somewhat relieved.


    Zhao Yan hadn''t started practicing the Purple Qi Technique yet, but his martial cultivation had firmly reached the Emperor Stage, the fourth stage of Heaven Profound Stage, Emperor Qi!


    He could also sense that Xu Ge and Huang Sihai had spiritual energy in their bodies. They had reached the second stage of the Qi Refining Realm.


    Tie Ma seemed tock the innate talent for cultivation, but his martial cultivation was slowly increasing. He was now at the third realm of the Earth Profound Stage, Returning Essence Qi. The others were doing well too. Some had reached the first level of Qi Refining Realm, while others had strong martial arts cultivation. They had truly grown up. At night, they drank around Fang Chen''s grave. Whenever someone took a drink, they poured one for Fang Chen too.


    "With the way you''re drinking, can I keep up? I''m not immune to getting drunk," Fang Chen muttered quietly.


    Suddenly, Huang Sihai started crying loudly, and his crying even attracted Mountain Tiger Lord. However, it recognized Huang Sihai and just watched quietly from a distance.


    The next day, everyone packed up and left. Fang Chen nced at his own physical body again.


    <i>Hmm, not bad. It''s recovering slowly but surely.</i>

 Chapter 455: Foundation Building!

    <h4>Chapter 455: Foundation Building!</h4>


    Years passed, and in the blink of an eye, twelve years had passed since Fang Chen''s burial.


    During that period, the old master came once and stood in front of the grave for a full day before leaving without saying a word.


    Victorious Buddha and Profound Green took turns guarding the grave, recing Tiger Mountain Lord.


    For ordinary people, twelve years was a significant portion of their lives, perhaps even a fifth or a sixth of it. But for cultivators, twelve years wasn¡¯t a long period.


    Fairy Yu had not visited him since she had left. It was unknown whether she sessfully entered the Foundation Building Realm.


    Fang Chen stood in front of his grave, silently gazing at the jade coffin. His physical body hadpletely recovered. It was now filled with blood and flesh, and his appearance had reverted to his youthful state. He appeared to be eighteen or neen now.


    Fang Chen''s eyes were filled with pensiveness. "My physical body haspletely recovered.... Why... can''t I return to my body?"


    There had to be some problem somewhere, but now he had no physical form and only a soul. In this state, he couldn¡¯t investigate.


    <i>Wait a minute!</i>


    Fang Chen''s eyes suddenly lit up. He saw the surrounding power of the five elements converging toward this ce


    In the sky, a huge vortex of spiritual energy appeared, gathering all the spiritual energy within the vicinity of hundreds of miles. The next moment, spiritual energy descended like a giant dragon from the sky, entering the grave and pouring into Fang Chen''s body.


    Fang Chen smiled. "So that''s how it is!"


    Not only did his physical body fully recover, but it was also breaking through to the Foundation Building Realm! Once he did, he would immediately be able to return to his body and regain control!


    A tiger roar resounded, and Tiger Mountain Lord rushed out from within the forest and stared at the scene ying out in astonishment. It couldn''t see the spiritual energy, but it could feel the majestic spiritual energy pouring into the tomb!


    The first day quickly passed.


    The infusion of spiritual energy continued without any sign of weakening. Tiger Mountain Lord began to patrol around and drove away all outsiders passing by and prevented them from approaching the grave.


    Time passed.


    In the blink of an eye, seventy-seven days had passed, and thest strand of spiritual energy flew into his body. It was only then the vortex of spiritual energy in the sky quietly dissipated.


    Fang Chen''s divine soul moved as it disappeared from his original spot. Inside the jade coffin, Fang Chen slowly opened his eyes.


    "Little Chen, you''re awake!" Little Sword''s voice sounded with excitement. "You finally woke up, I thought that old thing was lying to me!"


    Mirror of the Universe sneered coldly with arrogance. "Junior, even if I were lying to you, I wouldn''t lie to myself, right? I was very certain that he would wake up. If he couldn''t wake up, wouldn''t I also be buried here for good?"


    Mirror of the Universe chuckled. "Brother, you slept for too long. My spiritual energy has almost beenpletely exhausted. When will you find some spirit stones for me to consume?"


    "There¡¯s no rush, you''ve waited for twelve years, a little while longer won¡¯t hurt," Fang Chen said with a relieved smile.


    He quietly sensed the situation inside his body. The twelve immortal sword veins had disappeared, reced by a massive sword mountain ten timesrger than any of the veins! The sword mountain surged with spiritual energy continuously, nourishing and tempering Fang Chen''s physical body and enhancing his Sword Body.


    In terms of physical strength, his Sword Body has improved significantly. It was now far stronger than before. When it came to his spiritual energy reserves, it was now a hundred times what it used to be! Exactly one hundred times! When he was at the 12th stage of the Qi Refining Realm, his spiritual energy was alreadyparable to an ordinary early Foundation Building Realm cultivator.


    Now that it had increased by a hundredfold, he might very well have exceeded what a grandpletion stage Foundation Building Realm cultivator had. The advantage of a solid foundation was fully manifested, and as his cultivation grew stronger in the future, this advantage is likely to be even more obvious!


    Most importantly, Fang Chen sensed that his lifespan had been replenished. During thest twelve years, the power of merit not only revived him but also replenished his depleted lifespan.


    Now, if he were to unleash the third sword of the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture, it would inflict the Kunlun Battle General with more than a simple injury.


    "Why is there a demon cultivator here?"


    "It''s just at the eighth stage of Qi Refining Realm. Don''t kill it, I want to capture it and refine it into a demon corpse."


    Fang Chen''s divine soul left his body, and he saw a few figures not far away. Tiger Mountain Lord had already been injured by one of them and was panting heavily. These individuals emitted a strong corpse aura. Their leader had reached the grandpletion stage of the Foundation Building Realm.


    "Ancestor, over the years, we have searched all Three World Mountains with the same name and surname, but we haven''t found that person''s remains. This should be thest ce."


    "If we don''t find it here, keep searching. That person was a sword cultivator. If the body of a sword cultivator is refined into a zombie, its strength would be earth-shattering. Not only could it be easily promoted to an Iron Armored corpse, but it also had the potential to be a Golden Armored corpse!"


    The grandpletion stage Foundation Building Realm cultivator smiled slightly. "By then, my Blood Corpse Sect will be able to step out of the Qinghu Empire and no longer stay in these boonies! This is our opportunity, everyone, so don''t think it tiresome."


    Tiger Mountain Lord finally understood; these were a group of evil cultivators specializing in refining zombies!


    They actually wanted to use his master''s remains to refine a corpse? Damn it!


    Tiger Mountain Lord roared. It was about to pounce on the nearest Foundation Building Realm cultivator, but it was struck away by a backhand palm from the opponent.


    The Foundation Building Realm cultivator looked disdainfully at the Tiger Mountain Lord and then shifted his gaze to a lone grave not far away.


    "Huh, there''s a solitary grave here!"


    He shed to the grave and, upon seeing the inscription on the tombstone, burst into madughter. "Hahaha, ancestor, we''ve found it, Fang Chen is buried here!!"


    The grandpletion stage Foundation Building Realm cultivator immediately brought several other Foundation Building Realm cultivators to the grave, silently staring at the tombstone.


    "We''ve really found it." The lips of the Foundation Building Realm cultivator curled slightly, lightly smoothing his temples with both hands. He softly said, "Dig it out."


    "Yes!"


    Several Foundation Establishment cultivators immediately began to dig the grave.


    Soon, the soil waspletely dug away, revealing a jade coffin in front of everyone.


    "It''s a jade coffin! Our disciple saw Fang Chen''s body lying in the jade coffin that day in Great Qian. We''ve found the right ce!" one Foundation Building Realm cultivator eximed excitedly.


    "Please, Ancestor,e and open the coffin! In recent years, Fang Chen''s reputation has soared in the Hidden Cloud Region, almost bing a legend. Only the ancestor is worthy of personally uncovering such an existence"


    Several Foundation Building Realm cultivators respectfully bowed and expressed their excitement.


    The grandpletion stage Foundation Building Realm cultivator smiledcently and stepped toward the jade coffin.


    Tiger Mountain Lord roared weakly from a distance, its eyes filled with anger.


    <i>Crack.</i>


    The jade coffin opened easily, and everyone saw Fang Chen lying spiritedly in the coffin, his appearance vivid and rosy, unlike a dead person.


    "Hmm!?" Everyone was slightly startled.


    The next moment, Fang Chen opened his eyes and looked at the grandpletion stage Foundation Building Realm cultivator with a smile, "You''re the ancestor of the Blood Corpse Sect?"


    <i>Hiss.</i>


    Startled by this unexpected turn of events, these people, who were used to ying with zombies all day, took sharp breaths as goosebumps pimpled their skin.


    The ancestor of the Blood Corpse Sect reacted swiftly, and corpse qi gathered around him as he immediately summoned his Copper Armored corpse that he had refined for many years.


    Then, a sh of sword light passed by, and the Copper Armored corpse was obliterated to shreds along with the head of the ancestor!

 Chapter 456: Return Home with the Grand Xia Soldiers!

    <h4>Chapter 456: Return Home with the Grand Xia Soldiers!</h4>


    Kneeling before the grave were four Foundation Building Realm cultivators. Their foreheads were pressed against the soil, hands ced on their sides, and upon closer inspection, one could see them trembling slightly.


    Fang Chen stood before them, quietly gazing at the Copper-Armored corpse that he had dismembered. That corpse wasparable to a grandpletion stage Foundation Building Realm cultivator and should have been the Blood Corpse Sect ancestor''s strongest trump card.


    Fang Chen asked suddenly, "Does the Blood Corpse Sect have any connection with the Spirit Blood Sect?"


    The four Foundation Building Realm cultivators were terrified, their courage shattered, and they quickly exined, "Senior, we have absolutely no connection with the Spirit Blood Sect!"


    Fang Chen smiled. "Then why did youe to seek my corpse to turn me into a zombie?"


    "Senior, this was all the ancestor''s idea. He said that the bones of a sword cultivator are rarely seen in a hundred years and If we could obtain your skeleton and refine it into a zombie, it''s highly likely it would be an Iron-Armored corpse, with a chance to advance to a Golden-Armored corpse in the future," one of the Foundation Building Realm cultivators exined boldly.


    Fang Chen nodded softly. Mirror of the Universe had mentioned before that an Iron-Armored corpse was equivalent to a Golden Core Realm cultivator and a Golden-Armored corpse wasparable to a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator.


    The four Blood Corpse Sect Foundation Building Realm cultivators were at their wits'' end, their hearts filled with nothing but fear. Who could have thought that Fang Chen, who was believed to have died twelve years ago, would still be alive?


    Leaving aside the reputation he had gained in the Hidden Cloud Region over the years and his countless battles against Golden Core Realm and even Nascent Soul Realm cultivators, just his identity as a member of the Fang Family was not something the Blood Corpse Sect could provoke.


    Fang Chen looked toward Tiger Mountain Lord and smiled. "Tiger Mountain Lord, has everything been welltely?"


    Tiger Mountain Lord¡¯s eyes were filled with excitement, and he nodded and nodded as he let out several roars.


    Fang Chen breathed a sigh of relief. "That''s good."


    He then looked at the four Blood Corpse Sect Foundation Building Realm cultivators and said, "I''ll give you a chance to live. Do you want it?"


    "Yes, yes, yes!"


    The four of them nodded vigorously.


    "I have six hundred thousand subordinates who died in Three World Mountain. I''ve always wanted to send them home for a proper burial, but I couldn''t find a suitable way to do it," Fang Chen smiled. "Since your sect specializes in researching corpses, do you have a way to help me with this little favor? If you can, you''ll live."


    <i>Six hundred thousand!? </i>


    The faces of the four cultivators were astounded, and three of them quickly turned hopeless, thinking they couldn''t escape their fate. Only one old Foundation Building Realm cultivator seemed to have an idea, and Fang Chen had met him before, his surname seemed to be Zhou. The Blood Spirit Sect had once used him to search for Fang Chen using blood corpses in Qinghu


    "Senior, our sect has a technique which can temporarily manipte bone remains...." The old cultivator named Zhou''s voice trembled. "Perhaps we can help you."


    "Elder Zhou, are you talking about the Bone Control Technique!?"


    The other three cultivators came to a realization when they heard Elder Zhou''s words. Their faces were initially filled with surprise, but it quickly turned into hesitation.


    Fang Chen looked at Elder Zhou. "Please exin in detail."


    "It''s like this... if I were to use the Bone Control Technique, I could barely control a thousand skeletons. The four of usbined could just control four thousand...." Elder Zhou exined awkwardly.


    Fang Chen shook his head lightly. "Four thousand is too few."


    One of them hurriedly added, "We also have disciples. If we gather all the Blood Corpse Sect disciples, we can control up to a hundred thousand at once!"


    Fang Chen smiled. "A hundred thousand? That''s still too few. How about this, you can expend some of your lifespans to strengthen this technique a bit more. With some effort, sending all six hundred thousand back won''t be difficult, right?"


    <i>Expend some lifespan!?</i>


    The four cultivators felt like they were facing a great cmity, but they had no choice. They dared not refuse Fang Chen; otherwise, death would be their only option.


    The four of them immediately began to burn Transmission Talismans, notifying the disciples of the Blood Corpse Sect to rush over. In just half a month, several hundred Blood Corpse Sect disciples stood disheartened behind the four elders.


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "Let''s begin."


    Receiving themand, the four Foundation Building Realm cultivators led the hundreds of Blood Corpse Sect disciples to perform the Bone Control Technique. Vast spiritual energy scattered around, and skeletal remains emerged from the earth and stood unsteadily.


    Some of these skeletons were still wearing armor, and some of them had their waists separated from their legs, but those skeletons quickly managed to find their respective missing parts and reattached them back. Tiger Mountain Lord stood beside Fang Chen, staring in astonishment at this sight. Within a short time, tens of thousands of skeletons stood in this ce.


    Fang Chen''s gray-white pupils faintly revealed golden patterns.


    The Primordial Immortal Eyes!


    Looking at hisrades-in-arms who had fought alongside him on the battlefield reduced to such a fate, Fang Chen sighed lightly.


    Elder Zhou''s face was red, his spiritual energy rapidly depleting, and it was clear it was straining for him. "Senior, is it about time?"


    Fang Chen encouraged, ¡°Now we have four hundred thousand, there¡¯s another two hundred thousand. Let''s push harder.¡±


    The four Foundation Building Realm cultivators sighed inwardly, then shouted sternly, "All disciples, push harder!"


    The hundreds of cultivators erupted with potential, burning their lifespan. Finally, the remaining two hundred thousand skeletons emerged from the earth.


    Fang Chen nodded lightly, retrieved his tombstone together with the three sword intents left by the old man in white clothes, and then proimed loudly, "Soldiers of Grand Xia, follow me home!"


    Whether it was an illusion or not, Fang Chen faintly heard their voices enter his ear.


    "Yes!"


    The massive army of white bones, manipted by hundreds of Blood Corpse Sect cultivators, marched toward the direction of Grand Xia. Along the way, some travelers caught sight of this scene and almost died from fright, quickly turning around to flee without any thoughts of lingering.


    As days passed by, a city belonging to Grand Xia finally appeared before Fang Chen''s eyes. The guards at the city gate suddenly felt something was amiss and looked into the distance, only to see numerous white figures heading their way.


    An older guard subconsciously looked at the younger ones.


    ¡°These are... skeletons!? What''s going on, am I hallucinating in broad daylight?¡±


    "Uncle... we, we see it too. What should we do!?"


    "What else can we do!? Quickly inform the officials!"


    Smoke signals rose from the city walls, drums sounded, and countless soldiers rushed toward the scene, including the Valiant Saber Guards.


    A middle-aged official slowly ascended the city tower, apanied by a group of subordinates. They looked solemn and puzzled at the same time.


    A subordinate felt a chill as he nced into the distance, instinctively looking toward Lord Lin. ¡°Lord Lin, are we seeing things? Why are there so many skeletonsing towards us!? This is broad daylight!¡±


    Lord Lin exuded the aura of the Earth Profound Stage. He furrowed his brow and gazed into the distance, suddenly taken aback. ¡°No, besides the skeletons, there are also hundreds of living people. They might be cultivators!¡±


    ¡°What should we do now, Lord?¡±


    ¡°The gates are closed, and I''ve already sent out the message. For now? Let''s wait and see what happens. Remember, there''s no reason for us to flee without a fight. If they want to attack the city, we will defend it to the end,¡± said Lord Lin with a cold smile.


    The group took in a deep breath as they felt like they might not survive the day.


    Soon, the skeletons reached the city gates. Just as Lord Lin was about to speak, a fierce guard next to him suddenly eximed, ¡°Look, the military uniforms on those skeletons! They belong to the Grand Xia Army!!!¡±

 Chapter 457: Welcoming the Lord! Welcoming the Grand Xia Army!

    Chapter 457: Weing the Lord! Weing the Grand Xia Army!


    ¡°What!? The Grand Xia Army!?¡±


    Lord Lin was surprised. After a careful inspection, his face suddenly turned red and he started panting heavily like a bull. ¡°It really is the Grand Xia Army! It''s the Grand Xia Army!¡±


    ¡°Grand Xia soldiers, follow me home!¡± a voice rang out, and in the next moment, Fang Chen transformed into a sword and soared into the air. He looked at the officials on the city tower and smiled. ¡°Open the city gates. I''m sending myrades home.¡±


    ¡°It''s Divine General Fang!!!¡±


    The officials'' faces flushed with excitement, and they immediately knelt down as they bowed continuously to Fang Chen.


    Lord Lin shouted down, ¡°Open the city gates. Divine General Fang is sending the Grand Xia soldiers home. Don''t stop them!!¡±


    ¡°Grand Xia soldiers!¡±


    The defending soldiers finally snapped out of their daze and hurriedly opened the city gates. Suppressing their fear, they carefully observed the skeletons and finally recognized them.


    ¡°They are Grand Xia soldiers! I recognize their uniforms!!¡±¡°These... could they be the Grand Xia soldiers who died at Three World Mountain!?¡±


    ¡°It must be them! Divine General Fang has returned, and he''s sending them home!¡±


    In an instant, the entire city buzzed with excitement as countless people rushed out of their homes. The soldiers and guards in the city took on the responsibility of maintaining order, not allowing the civilians to block the path.


    The six hundred thousand soldiers passed through the streets in an orderly manner, drawing astonished, fearful, confused, and excited looks from the watching crowd.


    Suddenly, an elderly woman on the street became extremely excited as she cried and rushed to the street in a struggle.


    "It''s my son! My son has returned! Son, I''m your mother!"


    "Stop!" Fang Chen¡¯s voice rang out.


    The Blood Corpse Sect cultivators quickly controlled the bones of the soldiers from Grand Xia, stopping them in their tracks.


    Fang Chen swiftly appeared in front of the elderly woman.


    The Valiant Saber Guards knelt and paid their respects. "We pay our respects to Divine General Fang!"


    They were visibly moved, never expecting to be in such close proximity to the legendary Divine General Fang.


    "Auntie, which one is your son?" Fang Chen asked gently.


    "It''s him, it''s definitely him. I wouldn''t be mistaken. Look at the bell hanging on his waist, I made it for him before he went to war. I thought that if he died on the battlefield and returned, I would hear the bell and know he was back."


    The elderly woman pointed to one of the skeletons; it had a bell tied with a thick rope around its waist, treasuring it, in fear of it being lost.


    Fang Chen nodded gently. "Auntie, you can take him home now."


    The elderly woman and her family quickly stepped forward and carefully took away the skeleton. At the same time, many other people around also recognized their loved ones.


    After several hours, the army of white bones left the city and headed toward the capital.


    Several thousand soldiers from Grand Xia had already been imed by their families.


    Fang Chen''s n was simple - those recognized by their families would return home, while the rest would be ced in the Eternal Cemetery. The people of Grand Xia would thene to im them. For those whose identities couldn''t be confirmed, they would reside in the Eternal Cemetery.


    Lord Lin and his subordinates watched the skeleton army leaving from afar with excited expressions.


    Lord Lin ordered suddenly, "Quick, send messages everywhere, let them be prepared, and don''t obstruct their path!"


    Several officials immediately rushed off to prepare to send the messages.


    "Six hundred thousand, a whole six hundred thousand... these are all our good sons of Grand Xia, and now they''ve finally returned home," Lord Lin muttered to himself, tears streaming down his face uncontrobly.


    "Lord Lin, not only have the sons of Grand Xia returned this time, but Divine General Fang has alsoe back. The current General Fang should be considered a legendary figure, right?" a cautious subordinate asked.


    Lord Lin wiped his eyes and smiled. "Of course. Didn''t you see those hundreds of living people? They must also be cultivators, but the way they look at General Fang is full of reverence."


    "That''s great..." the subordinate muttered to himself.


    In the capital of Grand Xia, in the Taihe Hall, Xia Yuanduan sat on the dragon throne. Over the past decade, he had grown into an adult. Standing below were some familiar faces - Jiang Yushu, the fifth king, Ye Dongming, the Minister of War, Tao Mingsheng, the Minister of Rites, and Huang Sihai.


    Huang Sihai was now themander of the Valiant Saber guards, second only to Xia Yuanduan in power within Grand Xia. However, everyone knew that although Xia Yuanduan was the emperor, the one who truly influenced the fate of Grand Xia was none other than Divine General Fang.


    After reading the memorials, Xia Yuanduan''s face rxed into a smile as he addressed the officials below, ¡°Not bad, not bad. Nowadays, both the northern and southern regions are prosperous, and the people are all well-fed. Every year, the tributes from empires like Qingsong and Longdu are more or less the same.¡±


    "Throughout history, an emperor as rxed as I am should be as rare as scorpions pooping, right?" he joked.


    "Your Majesty, this is a good thing," Minister Ye hurriedly responded.


    "Yes, it is indeed a good thing," Huang Sihai echoed with a deep smile.


    Xia Yuanduan nodded with a smile and then looked at Huang Sihai, his eyes revealing a hint of anticipation. "Pacifier Huang, when will Divine General Fang return? I miss him."


    Huang Sihai remainedposed and replied softly, "The lord has embarked on the path of cultivating immortality now, perhaps he''s busy with various matters. Once he resolves everything, he will naturallye back."


    Jiang Yushu and the others exchanged nces, their eyes showing a hint of concern. It had been over a decade, and Divine General Fang had not returned. Moreover, they asionally heard some unfavorable rumors.


    Just then, a Valiant Saber Guard rushed in, his expression filled with excitement. "Your Majesty, esteemed officials, our Grand Xia army has returned! Divine General Fang is personally bringing them back!"


    The court officials were taken aback, and they grew confused.


    Huang Sihai was shocked, and he sternly shouted at the guard, "Calm down and speak clearly! Exin the situation."


    "Yes, yes, don''t get too excited. Exin the situation clearly first," Xia Yuanduan urged.


    "Your Majesty, Pacifier Huang, it''s like this. We received news that someone is leading tens of thousands of skeletons toward the capital. These skeletons are the Grand Xia army that had died in Three World Mountain. The one escorting them here is precisely Divine General Fang!"


    Huang Sihai stepped up to the Valiant Saber Guard, his eyes as deep as the sea. "Has someone seen it with their own eyes? It''s really the lord!?"


    The guard nodded repeatedly. "It''s absolutely true!"


    "Hahaha!"


    Huang Sihai burst into uncontrobleughter, inadvertently causing his aura to leak a little, making many martial generals in the hall feel uneasy.


    <em>Terrifying!</em>


    They deeply understood that Huang Sihai had stepped into the path of immortality, and his methods were unfathomable!


    "Spread the order: all Valiant Saber Guard, wherever they may be, muste back immediately to wee the lord and the Grand Xia Army!" Huang Sihaimanded, then looked at Emperor Xia Yuan. "Your Majesty, let''s go wee the lord."


    "Let''s go, let''s go!" Emperor Xia Yuan immediately stood up, ran to Huang Sihai, and urged him, "Hurry, let''s depart!"

 Chapter 458: Don’t Be In A Hurry to Leave

    Chapter 458: Don¡¯t Be In A Hurry to Leave


    Fang Chen stood in the void, looking down at the Grand Xia Army soldiers below, murmuring softly to himself, "Don''t worry about it too much. Two hundred thousand of them have already returned home. For those who can''t return, they will enjoy incense for eternity in the Eternal Cemetery."


    He had underestimated the bond between blood rtives. Along the way, countless people recognized their kin in many ways and brought them back home.


    The Foundation Building Realm cultivator surnamed Zhou gathered his courage and looked at Fang Chen. "Senior, how much farther do we have to go?"


    He already looked much older than he used to be, all due to the consumption of his lifespan during this period. Fortunately, now that the number of skeletons they controlled dropped by two hundred thousand, the burden on the hundreds of Blood Corpse Sect cultivators lessened, and they could breathe a sigh of relief.


    "Not far," Fang Chen replied lightly.


    The Foundation Building Realm cultivator surnamed Zhou smiled bitterly in his heart. His grandson, Zhou Huayu, secretly observed Fang Chen in the air, suddenly recalling the scene of meeting Fang Chen for the first time in Frost Water Empire. He never expected that the small sword cultivator back then would be a legend in the entire Hidden Cloud Region.


    With a Qi Refining Realm cultivation base, he killed Golden Core Realm experts, injured Nascent Soul Realm cultivators, and single-handedly thwarted the Spirit Blood Sect''s conspiracy. Over the past decade, Zhou Huayu had heard of that event countless times, hearing about that legendary figure.


    He never expected that this legendary figure would still be alive, and he even saw him with his own two eyes.


    "Ancestor is really unlucky. If he knew that Fang Chen was still alive, he wouldn''t dare to search for his remains everywhere, even if he had a hundred times more courage... The unluckiest part is... he was actually found by the ancestor." Zhou Huaye looked at his grandfather, relieved that his lost lifespan wasn''t too excessive. It shouldn''t cause any major problems. "Fortunately, Grandpa is fine..." As they were about to approach the next city, a group of people suddenly rushed out from the city gates. Leading them was a figure as strong and imposing as a liger¡ªit was Huang Sihai, with Xia Yuan right beside him. Apart from them, there were also people like Xu Ge, Tie Ma, Zhao Yan, and other elite guards of Grand Xia.


    Seeing the familiar figures, Fang Chen''s face lit up with a happy smile. "This... this sight..."


    Xia Yuan looked at the sea of skeletons of soldiers and a sudden fear surged in his heart. He had only heard about the battle at Three World Mountain, but now, when he saw the skeletons, he truly understood the brutality of that battle! These dried bones were once vibrant soldiers of Grand Xia!


    "Lord!!!"


    Huang Sihai saw Fang Chen in the air and leaped directly from his horse, sliding on his knees for over ten yards, dragging two deep tracks behind him.


    "Prince!" Xu Ge, Tiema, Zhao Yan, and others also half-knelt in salute. Their eyes were moist, filled with excitement and emotion.


    Seeing Huang Sihai''s gesture, Xia Yuan immediately tried to imitate him by leaping from his horse. However, a force gently supported him.


    Fang Chen''s voice echoed. "Xia Yuan, now that you''re the Emperor, is it appropriate to kneel before me, a person with no official position?"


    At this moment, the hot tears in everyone''s eyes couldn''t be held back anymore and began to fall in streams.


    The lord''s voice! So many years had passed, but the lord was still the same; his voice hadn''t changed, and his appearance hadn''t changed! He was still the same!


    "It really is Divine General Fang...."


    Standing in the back were people like Jiang Yushu. Their gaze shifted from the sea of white skeleton remains to Fang Chen, their faces showing a relieved smile. The rumors were false and Fang Chen was alive. As long as he was alive, Grand Xia would not see war again and could continue to grow steadily!


    Unable to kneel down, Xia Yuan looked at Fang Chen excitedly. "Divine General Fang, I missed you!"


    Fang Chen gentlynded on the ground, looking at Xia Yuan, then at Huang Sihai and the others, before smiling and nodding. "Good, good. I missed you all too. Get up, don''t block the way for our Grand Xia soldiers returning home."


    "Yes!"


    Huang Sihai and the others stood up excitedly, surrounding Fang Chen and speaking one after another.


    Xia Yuan wanted to interject, "Wait, let me speak first..."


    However, these guys didn''t give him face at all andpletely ignored his attempt to speak.


    "Don''t say so much. Didn''t you all say enough of these things back then when we were together? You haven''t had enough, but I''ve heard enough. Also, next time we drink, let''s be fair. That night, you all drank sixty jin, and I drank three hundred jin alone. Do you take me for a wine barrel?" said Fang Chen,ughing.


    Huang Sihai and the others were stunned, looking at Fang Chen in disbelief.


    ¡°Lord... You were there that night too!? You saw it all?¡±


    Fang Chen nodded with a smile. ¡°Hmm, I was there the whole time. You guys were too preupied. If it weren¡¯t for you alling to talk with me from time to time over these years, I¡¯d have been quite bored.¡±


    ¡°I always said he wouldn¡¯t perish so easily. May you live a long and prosperous life!!¡± eximed Xu Ge excitedly.


    Emperor Xia Yuan''s face was covered in surprise. He didn''t understand anything. ¡°What are you all talking about? Why can¡¯t I understand?¡±


    These guys were hiding something from him! It seemed like they had always been in contact with Divine General Fang, but he hadn¡¯t been!?


    Fang Chen looked at figures like Jiang Yushu from a distance, exchanged a bow with them, and then said, ¡°Gentlemen, it¡¯s crucial to send the soldiers back home first. Anything else, we can discuss in detail once we reach the capital.¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes!¡±


    As the procession continued, it grewrger. Initially, it was just Fang Chen, but now it included the Emperor of Grand Xia and officials from all ranks.


    The journey was smooth, and countless soldiers of Grand Xia were received back by their families.


    By the time they reached the gates of the Eternal Cemetry, the initial six hundred thousand soldiers had dwindled to about eighty or ny thousand. Among them, about forty to fifty percent would be imed back, while the rest either had no identifying features or had no family to return to.


    For these soldiers, the Eternal Cemetry would be their home. That event caused a sensation in Grand Xia. When had the people of Grand Xia ever witnessed such a shocking and surreal scene? Especially since what they saw were the Grand Xia soldiers who had died at Three World Mountain marching on their own!


    Watching the the tens of thousands of soldiers enter the Eternal Cemetry, Fang Chen felt relieved. He turned to Huang Sihai andmanded, "Old Huang, instruct the Valiant Saber Guards to cooperate with the families of ourrades to im them. Also, find those brothers who were alive initially and inquire more details to facilitate the ims."


    "My lord, please rest assured. For the next period of time, I, Ol'' Huang, will not take care of anything else; I will focus solely on this matter!" Huang Sihai patted his chest and said, "If possible, I will make sure every brother-in-arms returns home!"


    "Divine General Fang, I will also personally oversee this matter," Xia Yuan hurriedly added.


    Fang Chen nodded with a smile. At that moment, the Foundation Building Realm cultivation surnamed Zhou, asked cautiously, "Senior, we have taken care of everything. Can we leave now?"


    "Don''t be in a hurry to leave, stay and have a few drinks with me," Fang Chen suggested with a smile. "Your sect''s techniques are quite unique. I''d like for us to have a discussion."


    <em>Discussion?!</em>


    The disciples of the Blood Corpse Sect paled. It was clear that he wanted their techniques, not just some discussion¡­.

 Chapter 459: Dominate both the Dark and Righteous Side

    <h4>Chapter 459: Dominate both the Dark and Righteous Side</h4>


    In Grand Xia, at the Fang Manor in the capital.


    Even though a decade had passed and many members of the Fang Family had moved to the southern region, the Fang Manor remained impably organized and spotless. After seeing off Jiang Yushu and the others, Fang Chen chatted with Zhao Yan and the rest for a while.


    Over these years, they would asionally visit Three World Mountain and speak to Fang Chen about their affairs, so he was already well-informed.


    As they talked, the Foundation Building Realm cultivator surnamed Zhou and the others stood on the side and waited. Hundreds of Blood Corpse Sect disciples stood in the courtyard. They had all aged somewhat since they came to help Fang Chen, their lifespans having taken a hit.


    "Each of you from the Blood Corpse Sect, leave behind a copy of your sect''s techniques," Fang Chen suddenly said, smiling at several Foundation Building Realm cultivators from the Blood Corpse Sect.


    "As expected...."


    They were prepared for it and didn''t show much reluctance, each handing over their techniques. The Blood Corpse Sect excelled in refining corpses. Their technique was called the Blood Corpse Technique. As for their cultivation techniques, they were rtively ordinary, not particrly profound.


    Besides the Blood Corpse Techinque and Bone Control Technique, the techniques mastered by Blood Corpse Sect practitioners were mostlymon and widely known¡ªsuch as elemental maniption techniques, which most sects already knew.


    After personally reviewing the techniques and consulting with Mirror of the Universe for any discrepancies, Fang Chen nodded in approval and allowed them to leave.


    Not daring to linger any longer, the disciples of the Blood Corpse Sect quickly departed from Grand Xia.


    "Zhao Yan, your martial arts cultivation has now reached its peak. Have you begun practicing the Purple Qi Manual?" asked Fang Chen as he looked at Zhao Yan.


    Zhao Yan answered, "I want to try and see if I can break through to a higher stage and carve out an unprecedented path in martial arts cultivation."


    Fang Chen mused, "An unprecedented path in martial arts cultivation? This path may not necessarily be untrodden. Perhaps someone has seeded in doing that, but his aplishments remain hidden. It''s worth giving it a shot. However, remember that cultivating immortality requires a sufficient lifespan. If this path doesn''t work out, don''t waste too much time."


    Zhao Yan nodded lightly. "I understand."


    "Lord, are you going to stay here now that you''ve returned?" Xu Ge asked cautiously.


    Fang Chen smiled. "Of course not. You guys are in Grand Xia, and that''s enough."


    "Grand Xia has Old Huang, Zhao Yan, and the rest. It''s enough. Lord, take me with you. It would be good to have someone to apany you on the way," Xu Ge said.


    Fang Chen chuckled. "I won''t be gone forever, and besides, your cultivation is still too low. You need to cultivate diligently. Taking you with me at this cultivation level would mean me taking care of you."


    Xu Ge sighed softly.


    "If you''re ever bored and your cultivation is sufficient, you can visit the me Empire." Fang Chen stood up and patted Xu Ge''s shoulder. He then looked at everyone and said, "I''ll go back to the Southern Region. Make sure to handle the matter I entrusted you with."


    "Yes!"


    Everyone nodded in unison.


    The next moment, they saw Fang Chen transform into a sword and fly away.


    "Lord is truly like an immortal now," Xu Ge muttered to himself.


    Fang Chen did not immediately return to the Southern Region. He stopped midway to buy a steamed bun instead. As expected, it was as Xia Ji had said; although the shop had switched owners, the taste of the steamed bun was still the same.


    Tiger Mountain Lord looked at the steamed bun in Fang Chen''s hand with envy.


    Seeing that, Fang Chen couldn''t help but smile. "I forgot to buy you some steamed buns. You can have some when we return to the Southern Region."


    Tiger Mountain Lord showed a sheepish smile.


    Seeing its expression, Fang Chen was reminded of Immortal White Tiger.


    Fang Chen''s eyes flickered. "Victorious Buddha, Tiger Mountain Lord, and Profound Green are all demon cultivators, but I¡¯m not proficient in the cultivation methods of demon cultivation. If they stay in Grand Xia for too long, their future may be limited."


    Immortal White Tiger owed him a favor. Perhaps he could use this favor to persuade him to ept Victorious Buddha and the others with him, which would pave a good future for them.


    In the Southern Region, in the Fang Family Mansion, Fang Cangyou sat in a wheelchair with more than a dozen talented young men standing behind him. They were all war orphans adopted by the Fang Family.


    Fang Cangyou suddenly asked, "Is there still no news of Zhixue?"


    One of the young men behind him whispered, "Second Master, we searched all over Grand Xia but still can¡¯t find her."


    Fang Cangyou felt annoyed. "Could she have left Grand Xia?"


    After a pause, he continued, "In recent years, major sects in Grand Xia have obtained the martial arts inheritance from the Frost Water Empire and have been developing well. Have you noticed anything unusual while keeping an eye on them?"


    "There''s nothing unusual. They are all obedient. Moreover, there have been fewer fights in the martial world recently."


    Fang Cangyou said, "Once any grudges arise, as long as our people intervene, they will resolve the enmity. Is there any change in the military situation between the Southern and Northern Regions? Find an opportunity to tell those generals that although Grand Xia won''t engage in wars in the next few years, they should not ck off in training their soldiers."


    "Understood," the young talents responded in unison.


    Over the past decade, although the Fang Family did not interfere in worldly affairs, in reality, be it the martial world or the court, the Fang Family''s influence could be felt. One important reason for that was the numerous martial geniuses the Fang Family nurtured.


    In the past, reaching Qi Core at twenty was considered a top-tier talent. But now, there were countless geniuses in the Fang Family, with some even reaching the Earth Profound Stage.


    Anyone with well-informed sources knew that the Second Master of the Fang Family, who sat in a wheelchair, was not to be trifled with. Nowadays, even a casual remark from him could have a significant impact on both the dark and righteous sides of Grand Xia.


    Just then, a sh of sword light descended from the sky. The dozen or so young talents immediately surrounded Fang Cangyou, looking at the sword light warily.


    The sword light dispersed, revealing Fang Chen and Tiger Mountain Lord.


    When everyone saw them, they were left stunned.


    "It''s the lord..."


    These young talents couldn''t believe it. After over a decade of absence, the lord was standing before them today. He even looked younger than before!


    Fang Cangyou''s eyes brightened. "Y-You finally decided toe back!"


    He wheeled himself toward Fang Chen. He first checked Fang Chen for any injuries, and upon finding him in perfect condition, he nodded in satisfaction.


    Fang Chen''s smile was somewhat ambiguous. "Uncle, I heard you all talking just now. You''ve been quite busy these years, haven''t you?"


    "When you''re not around, I naturally have to handle a few matters. Some people like to act like wolves in sheep''s clothing; just because they receive favors doesn''t mean they''ll be truly grateful." Fang Cangyou chuckled. "To prevent certain individuals from causing trouble, some of my methods were necessary. Now, the results are quite apparent. With our asional deterrence, Grand Xia''s current situation is truly stable and worry-free."


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. He asked, "Uncle, what about my parents and my little sister? It seems like there¡¯s only you in the family now."

 Chapter 460: Drama King

    <h4>Chapter 460: Drama King</h4>


    "Big brother and sister-inw went somewhere to have fun. I recall Xia Ji came back for a visit over a decade ago, but he didn''t get to see your parents. Now theye back every two or three years, maybe even three or four, living like a pair of carefree immortals."


    Fang Cangyou sighed. "As for the old master, he said a few years ago he wanted to wander through thend and hasn''te back since. But don''t worry, the old master is extremely capable and won''t be in any danger."


    "What about my little sister?"


    Fang Cangyou grumbled, "That girl said she wanted to go out and gain experience a few years back, but she disappeared without a trace. We sent people to search for her everywhere. We can be certain that she isn''t within the borders of Grand Xia. You, your parents, and the old master are all gone. Now this girl ran off too, leaving me, a crippled old man, to guard everything all by myself. What a mess!"


    Fang Chen said in amusement, "Uncle, since your legs are fine, get up and move around. Don''t just sit in this wheelchair all day."


    It''s not a secret anymore that Fang Cangyou''s legs were perfectly fine; it''s just that outsiders didn¡¯t know. However, who within the Fang Family didn¡¯t know about it?


    "Sitting in this chair isfortable, why should I bother getting up?" Fang Cangyou rolled his eyes and then turned to the young talents beside him. "Quickly train new talents. Send some to Qingsong, Longdu, and other empires as well. Our focus shouldn''t be limited to Grand Xia alone."


    The others nodded quickly.


    ¡°Oh right. Uncle, you''re not exactly young anymore; have you thought about settling down and starting a family?" Fang Chen suddenly asked.


    Doing the math, he left Grand Xia at twenty-three and he was about thirty-six. Fang Cangyou was over fifty already.


    "Settle down? I''m just a cripple in a wheelchair, who''d want me?" remarked Fang Cangyou self-deprecatingly.


    Feeling a bit helpless, Fang Chen turned around with Tiger Mountain Lord and left, letting this drama king immerse himself in his act.


    The disciples of the Fang Manor were familiar with Tiger Mountain Lord. However, when they saw Fang Chen by his side, they were all taken aback by surprise.


    Someone mustered the courage to approach and bowed. "You''ve returned, my lord?"


    "Yes, you''re Huan Hu, right? You used to look like a radish, but now you''ve grown stout and strong, not bad," replied Fang Chen.


    He nodded with a smile, then continued walking toward the back mountain with Tiger Mountain Lord.


    Everyone gathered around, filled with surprise and disbelief.


    "Huan Hu, is it really the lord?"


    Huan Hu nodded confidently. "Yes, it''s definitely him. I never thought that the lord would look even younger than before after all these years. No wonder they say the lord is an immortal."


    They all grew ecstatic. Over the years, there had been rumors circting that the lord had met his end roaming outside. Although these rumors were baseless, they still caused some concern among the Fang Family''s disciples. Now that they had seen Fang Chen alive and well, they concluded that these rumors were just nonsense.


    "Oh, right..."


    As they neared the back mountain, Fang Chen suddenly took out a Starlight Transmission Talisman, and spiritual power slowly surged within it.


    "Little Yu, can you hear me?"


    Fang Chen waited for a response for a while, but it never came, so he stashed the Starlight Transmission Talisman away and continued walking toward the back mountain. Perhaps Fairy Yu was in a critical moment of advancing into the Foundation Building Realm and couldn''t respond.


    Before long, Fang Chen and Tiger Mountain Lord arrived at the back mountain. Sensing the presence of Tiger Mountain Lord, Victorious Buddha and Profound Green hurried over.


    "Tiger Mountain Lord, why did youe back before the appointed time?" Victorious Buddha questioned as soon as he saw Tiger Mountain Lord. However, his eyes quickly caught Fang Chen, and he grew shocked. Unable to believe his eyes, he eximed, "Master!?"


    Tiger Mountain Lord couldn''t talk, but among demon cultivators, there were means ofmunication. After holding it in for so long, he immediatelymunicated with the two demons, "Master is alive again! Master''s methods are terrifying! You didn''t see it but he can easily y a Foundation Building Realm cultivator! Hehehe..."


    Profound Green hissed, "It seems like what that Daoist had said is true. Master can indeede back to life!"


    "Victorious Buddha, who came to the Fang Family while I was away?" Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    Victorious Buddha immediately bowed respectfully and recounted the guests who had visited the Fang Family over the years. Fang Qingyao hade, as well as Li Daoye.


    "How did you know about my whereabouts?" Fang Chen inquired.


    "That Daoistdy told us, but she only told us, the youngdy and the old master. The others, including the master and second master, were unaware," Victorious Buddha replied softly, referring to Fang Qingyao as thedy Daoist.


    "Also, Daoye was very certain that you wouldn''t die, so he asked us to take turns guarding you," Victorious Buddha added.


    <i>Looks like Li Daoye¡¯s cultivation has improved, and his Divination of the Stars Technique has be even more formidable, </i>Fang Chen thought to himself.


    After a moment of contemtion, he spoke again. "Pack up ande with me on a long journey."


    The three demons were delighted, but Victorious Buddha suddenly said, "Master, if we leave on a long journey, there won''t be anyone here to watch over them."


    "You cane backter. Besides, my second uncle is here. Although he hasn''t be a cultivator, his martial path is well-established. Ordinary cultivators wouldn''t be his match," Fang Chen said with a faint smile. He could see that Fang Cangyou''s martial cultivation was extremely high and was not inferior to Zhao Yan. He was also a Martial Emperor expert.


    That might be due to the batch of spiritual medicines and herbs he left behind, which had greatly enhanced Fang Cangyou''s martial cultivation all these years. While the three demons were cultivators, their progress over the years had been slow. Victorious Buddha was currently at the seventh stage of Qi Refining Realm, while Tiger Mountain Lord and Profound Green were at the sixth stage.


    In a real fight, even if the three demons joined forces, they wouldn''t be a match for Fang Cangyou. Additionally, there were quite a few cultivators in the Fang Family now. Fang Chen could sense the presence of at least ten cultivators since he returned. These were war orphans adopted by the Fang Family, who had passed the Spiritual Measuring Bell test and were qualified to cultivate with the Purple Qi Technique.


    With more than a decade of umtion, Grand Xia wasn''t the same as it used to be, it was iparable. The Fang Family was no longer what it used to be either, especially with Fang Chen''s recent breakthrough to the Foundation Building Realm.


    Grand Xia could now be barely considered a sixth-tier empire and was considered quite strong within the Hidden Cloud Region. After staying in the Southern Region for half a month, during which he asionally chatted with Fang Cangyou, Fang Chen spent the rest of his time guiding the disciples of the Fang Manor in their cultivation.


    As a Foundation Building Realm cultivator, he could easily provide guidance on the problems and bottlenecks Qi Refining Realm cultivators encountered with just a few words. Many disciples of the Fang Manor benefited from his guidance and managed to advance to a higher stage.


    One day, as Fang Chen and Fang Cangyou were admiring the sunset in the garden, he suddenly announced, "Second Uncle, I''m going to leave,"


    Fang Cangyou furrowed his brow. "Don''t you want to wait for your parents toe back and see you?"


    "I have a few things I need to address otherwise I won''t rest at ease. Even if it''s for the stability of Grand Xia in the future, I have to go on this journey," Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    Fang Cangyou said, "That''s fine, but you have toe back often. It''s said that the lifespan of Immortal Masters is very long. We won¡¯t be able to wait for you too long."


    Fang Chen nodded with a smile. "Next time I return, I''ll bring some spiritual elixirs and pills to increase longevity."

 Chapter 461: Return to Grand Qian, Things Have Changed

    <h4>Chapter 461: Return to Grand Qian, Things Have Changed</h4>


    Fang Chen, along with the three demons, took a trip back to the capital. Huang Sihai and the others had indeed handled the affairs of the Eternal Cemetery very well. In just half a month, tens of thousands of deceased soldiers had been imed.


    Upon learning that Fang Chen was leaving on another journey and taking the three demons with him, Xu Ge and Huang Sihai grew envious.


    After Fang Chen and the others left, Zhao Yan quietly bid farewell to Huang Sihai and the others, deciding to stay in the Southern Region.


    Fang Chen''s destination was Grand Qian once again. He wanted to see if Xia Ji was still there. He also nned to pass through Grand Qian to reach Jade Void Mountain in the Azure Cloud Empire, bringing the three demons to see Immortal White Tiger.


    A monthter, one man and three demons arrived at Grand Qian.


    Looking at the bustling imperial capital, the three demons were secretly awestruck. Their journey had already broadened their horizons, and they had even learned that a country dominated by demon cultivators existed when they passed through Qinghu Country. Nevertheless, it still paled inparison to the imperial capital of Grand Qian.


    Victorious Buddha, Tiger Mountain Lord, and Profound Green attracted a bit of attention because of their appearance. Fortunately, there were quite a few demon cultivators in Grand Qian, so people only gave them a casual nce and then minded their own business. Staring at cultivators could be interpreted as a hostile act, which could spell trouble when they had no clue what other cultivators were capable of. That''s why many cultivators were careful not to stare at others.


    Profound Void Mountain was the same as Fang Chen remembered it, unchanged. Fang Chen led the three demons to the front of Profound Void Temple, only to find a group of monks gathered there.


    Noticing the three demons, one of the monks fixed his gaze on Fang Chen. He sped his hands and asked, "Are you here to offer incense?"


    "Where are the people who used to live here?" Fang Chen questioned.


    He couldn''t sense the presence of Xia Ji and Wu Ruochou, a fact he had already known when he was still at the foot of the mountain.


    The dpidated Profound Void Temple had clearly been refurbished. It appeared to be upied by a group of Buddhist cultivators whose cultivation levels were quite high, with several of them at the Foundation Building Realm.


    "Profound Void Temple was deserted after what happened ten years ago. We are from Chenxiang Temple in the Azure Cloud Empire," a monk said softly.


    Fang Chen appeared surprised. "The Chenxiang Temple where Supreme Expert Dragon Wood resides?"


    The monk looked at Fang Chen with some interest. "You know Supreme Expert Dragon Wood?"


    Fang Chen smiled, bade farewell to the monk, and descended the mountain with the three demons.


    The Killing Spiritual Division had be more attentive to Grand Qian after what happened previously, so it was likely that they had sent these cultivators to watch over this area. This exined why these monks dared to stay here, despite the formidable methods of the former Demoness.


    After descending the mountain, Fang Chen led the three demons towards the inner city. Since he couldn''t meet Xia Ji, meeting Fang Tingjian and Fang Wanli would be a good alternative.


    At that moment, near the city gate, a middle-aged man was speaking eloquently, like a storyteller, "With one sword stroke per person, the sword cultivator from the Fang Family sliced through the Golden Core Realm cultivators of the Spirit Blood Sect as if he was cutting vegetables!


    "Even the Nascent Soul Realm cultivator couldn''t withstand his sword! If it weren''t for his bold actions, how could there be any peace in Grand Qian today?


    "I''m not exaggerating; I have some connections with that hero, so every word I say holds truth, it doesn''t have a shred of falsehood."


    A crowd of cultivators stood around, listening intently to the middle-aged man.


    One of the listeners couldn''t help himself and asked, "What is your rtionship with that person?"


    The middle-aged man sneered. "My rtionship with that person? When he first arrived in Grand Qian, I knew him then!"


    He then patted his legs and said, "He broke my legs back in the day!"


    Fang Chen stood at a distance, watching. He took a closer look at the middle-aged man and was slightly taken aback.


    <i>Lin Yu? How did he age so much in just twelve years?</i>


    Fang Chen nced at Lin Yu again and realized he had no spiritual energy, and his immortal veins were severed, indicating that his cultivation had been crippled.


    "Is what you''re saying true, he really broke your legs? Did you fight alongside him?" someone eximed in disbelief.


    Lin Yu''s face showed a proud expression, "Wrong, we didn''t fight alongside each other. I offended him because of that bastard Jue Wudi, so he broke my legs."


    Everyone''s expressions turned peculiar. How could he sound proud while saying such things?


    Before anyone could respond, Lin Yu continued, "Let me tell you about Jue Wudi. This person appeared righteous but deceived many people in the capital. Later, it was revealed that he was also a Spirit Blood Sect cultivator! He was a scoundrel whomitted all sorts of vile deeds in secret! Truly a shameless person!"


    Lin Yu''s eyes shed with a hint of hatred. "Later, the Jue Family got their retribution. They used to be one of the three main pirs of Grand Qian, but they have since been reduced to barely surviving in the districts. Hahaha, it¡¯s the cycle of heaven¡¯sw; retribution is inevitable!"


    Lin Yu''s eyes swept through the crowd. "If any of you want to know the details of those old grudges, why not buy me a drink? Then I can tell you all about it in detail."


    "Bah!"


    Many of the cultivators sneered and turned away, clearly dismissing Lin Yu as a fraud.


    Victorious Buddha, Tiger Mountain Lord, and Profound Green were stunned by what they heard. Could there really be someone who could cut down Golden Core Realm cultivators like slicing vegetables? That was incredibly impressive!


    At that moment, someone snorted coldly. "Lin Yu, are you ndering my family, again?"


    A young man led a group over, jostling through the crowd of cultivators to clear a space. The young man, who was at the forefront of the group, grabbed Lin Yu by the cor, his gaze icy.


    "Speak, are you tired of living?" said the young man.


    Lin Yu remained unflustered. He sneered, "So what if I am? Is the Jue Family going to kill me to shut me up?"


    "Your family ruined my family, and you even destroyed my cultivation. What, afraid to finish the job and send me to the underworld to meet my brainless father?" Lin Yu¡¯s voice grew more resentful. "If it hadn''t been for Jue Wudi urging him to trouble Fang Chen, would he have gone missing? If my family had a Foundation Building Realm cultivator to rely on, would we have fallen to this state? The Jue Family truly deserves death!"


    The surrounding Qi Refinement cultivators were shocked. "The storyteller''s father was a Foundation Building Realm cultivator!?"


    A Foundation Building Realm cultivator was not a weakling. In the imperial capital, a Foundation Building Realm cultivator''s descendants held a certain degree of status. What could have happened for the descendant of such a powerful cultivator to end up like this, relying on storytelling just to get a drink?


    Victorious Buddha, Tiger Mountain Lord, and Profound Green were surprised. "Fang Chen? That''s the same name as our master!"


    "You damned piece of shit!" the young man yelled.


    His eyes shed with murderous intent, but he stopped himself from killing Lin Yu. Instead, he viciously pped Lin Yu a dozen times, causing blood to seep from Lin Yu''s seven orifices.


    The young man nced around and said calmly, "He''s spewing nonsense. Don''t believe a word of it."


    He was about to leave when he noticed Tiger Mountain Lord nearby, and his eyes lit up.


    "Whose spirit beast is this? Is it for sale?"


    <i>Spirit beast? Me?</i> Tiger Mountain Lord thought.


    He realized the young man was talking about him. Enraged, he almost pounced over to bite the young man.

 Chapter 462: If He Tells You to Kneel, You Better Not Stay Standing

    <h4>Chapter 462: If He Tells You to Kneel, You Better Not Stay Standing</h4>


    "He''s not a spirit beast; he''s my disciple," Fang Chen said with a faint smile.


    Everyone''s eyes turned to Fang Chen.


    The young man frowned. "You took a demon cultivator as your disciple?"


    Tiger Mountain Lord growled in anger.


    The young man sneered coldly. "This is Grand Qian, not Qinghu. Demon cultivators don''t have that much clout here. Do you dare to threaten me?"


    After a pause, the young man looked at Profound Green and Victorious Buddha, then fixed his gaze on Fang Chen. "Tiger-type demon cultivators are rare. I like using them as mounts. Name your price. As long as it''s under two hundred low-grade spirit stones, I''ll take it."


    The crowd was shocked. <i>Two hundred low-grade spirit stones?</i>


    That was equivalent to an amazing low-grade, yellow-rank spiritual treasure, and even those didn''t usually cost that much.


    "Victorious Buddha, p him," Fang Chen said with a calm smile.


    "Yes, Master," Victorious Buddha responded, speaking in humannguage.


    In a sh, he appeared before the young man and pped him a dozen times. The young man tried to move but found himself immobilized by an invisible force.


    There were members of the Jue Family standing nearby, and they were furious. Some had already gone to call for help.


    "How dare you! You dare hit a member of the Jue Family!"


    "Let him go! His father is Jue Tiangang, the current head of our n!"


    The nearby cultivators were slightly taken aback, not expecting this seemingly inconspicuous young man to be the son of Jue Tiangang.


    "Jue Tiangang? He''s a true powerhouse!"


    Jue Tiangang was quite renowned among Foundation Building Realm cultivators, particrly for his exceptionally strong physical body. He was a rare cultivator who practiced physical arts.


    After the Jue Family''s decline, the major ns of Grand Qian had seized many of the Jue Family''s resources, but the remaining resources were all under Jue Tiangang''s control. Although what was left was limited, it was still a considerable sum. Over the past decade, Jue Tiangang''s cultivation had actually advanced by a minor stage. He was at the mid-stage of the Foundation Building Realm.


    Lin Yu stood up from the ground, pointing at the young man and taunting him relentlessly. "Hahaha, I didn''t expect karma toe so quickly. Kid, did you ever think you''d end up like me?"


    Then Lin Yu cupped his hands towards Fang Chen. "Thank you for standing up for me."


    When Lin Yu''s eyes fell on Fang Chen, he froze in bewilderment, and he rubbed his eyes reflexively. He took a closer look at Fang Chen and was stunned once more. Lin Yu epeated this process several times. His mouth stayed opened in disbelief as he stared at Fang Chen.


    <i>How can it be him!? Didn''t he die? I saw him die with my own eyes!</i>


    <i>Is it just someone who looks the same? It must be. Such coincidences are normal, but why are his eyes closed too?</i>


    Lin Yu was in turmoil.


    At the same time, a towering mountain-like figure approached from a distance. Even from afar, he stood out. It was Jue Tiangang. He was stout and looked more like a demon cultivator than Tiger Mountain Lord and the others. Walking on the street, ordinary cultivators only reached his waist or navel, making him resemble a small giant!


    Jue Tiangang disyed his domineering presence as soon as he arrived, his bell-like eyes scanning the crowd. "Who dares to unjustly beat a member of my family?"


    The surrounding cultivators dared not meet his gaze, instinctively lowering their eyes or looking away.


    The force that was binding the young man suddenly disappeared, and he hurried to Jue Tiangang''s side.


    Pointing at Fang Chen, the young man said, "Father, it was him! He ordered someone to hit me!"


    "You..." Jue Tiangang uttered as he looked at Fang Chen.


    However, right when he was about to say something, his walnut-sized pupils suddenly dted!


    "Your child needs some proper discipline," Fang Chen said with a faint smile.


    Jue Tiangang was astounded. "How could it be him.... This doesn''t make any sense...."


    Suddenly, he delivered a p to the young man''s face, knocking him to the ground.


    The young man held his cheek, stunned. "Father?!"


    The surrounding cultivators were shocked by this scene, not understanding what was happening.


    Only Lin Yu suddenly burst into wildughter. <i>That''s right! I didn''t make a mistake! It''s him! Even Jue Tiangang recognized him!</i>


    "Hahaha!"


    Jue Tiangang grabbed the young man, pping him repeatedly. "I''ve warned you before. When you''re out, be humble, and don''t stir up trouble. Why don''t you listen?"


    The young man''s face was already swollen, and now, with Jue Tiangang''s fan-sized hands swinging at him, it quickly swelled up like a pig''s head.


    Victorious Buddha and the other two demons initially expected some trouble and were ready to act, but they were surprised by what they saw.


    "Let''s go," Fang Chen said, continuing to walk toward the inner city.


    The three demons hurried after him.


    After they had walked far away, Jue Tiangang finally stopped hitting the young man, staring intently at Fang Chen''s departing figure with suspicion, confusion, and a trace of fear in his eyes.


    The young man was aggrieved, and heined, "Father, why did you hit me like that?"


    Jue Tiangang shifted his gaze back to the young man, his voice grave. "If I hadn''t hit you like that just now, I might have had to carry your corpse back and hold a funeral for you!"


    Everyone present gasped in shock.


    Regardless of whether they were members of the Jue family or unrted passersby cultivators, Jue Tiangang''s words led them to specte . <i>Could it be that Fang Chen has an immense background? Otherwise, Jue Tiangang wouldn''t be so wary of him!</i>


    The Jue Family had once been one of the three main pirs, and even after their decline, they still held significant influence in the imperial capital. At the very least, the sects and cultivator families of the outer city wouldn''t dare to provoke the Jue Family easily. After all, a dying camel was still bigger than a horse!


    The young man wasn''t foolish, and he quickly asked, "Dad, who is that man?"


    "I''m not sure..." Jue Tiangang muttered.


    <i>Not sure?</i> thought tthe young man, stunned.


    His father had beaten him publicly despite being unsure...? Didn''t his father care about his face at all?


    "Regardless, the next time you see that person, stay as far away from him as possible," Jue Tiangang instructed with a grim expression. "If he tells you to kneel, don''t stand. If I''m not mistaken, we can''t afford to provoke him, not even at the height of the Jue Family''s power."


    Everyone gasped again in shock.


    <i>Even if the Jue Family were still at their peak, they wouldn''t dare not provoke him?!</i>


    The minds of those in the crowd minds wandered, suspecting that Fang Chen might be a Golden Core Realm cultivator.


    However, at their peak, the Jue Family had ate-stage Golden Core Realm cultivator at their helm. Could that mysterious person be at the grandpletion stage?


    Entering the inner city was as difficult as before, but when Fang Chen dered himself a descendant of the Fang Family, he got in easily.


    Nevertheless, amotion broke out behind him.


    Someone was calling out to Fang Chen. "Fang Chen, Fang Chen!"


    It was Lin Yu. He was stopped by several soldiers.


    "Fang Chen?" the soldiers muttered, looking contemtive as they felt that this name was very familiar.


    "What do you want from me?" Fang Chen asked indifferently.


    Speaking from behind the guards blocking him, Lin Yu quickly said, "I want to know about my father''s whereabouts."


    "Jue Wudi once ordered him to kill Xia Ji, and I killed your father along with some elders from your family," Fang Chen said indifferently. "You can seek revenge if you get the chance."


    After that, Fang Chen ignored Lin Yu and walked away with the three demons.


    Lin Yu was stunned. <i>They''re dead?!</i>


    Then his face scrunched up in agony. "I should have realized it. If my father were still alive, he wouldn''t have not returned home for so many years... Damn Jue Wudi, damn Jue Wudi!"


    One of the soldiers finally snapped back to reality and seized Lin Yu by the cor. "Jue Wudi? Fang Chen? Did you say that man was named Fang Chen?"

 Chapter 463: Uncle, My Name is Also Fang Chen

    <h4>Chapter 463: Uncle, My Name is Also Fang Chen</h4>


    Lin Yu managed a bitter smile and said, "Yes, that''s Fang Chen. He''s the one who previously slew numerous Golden Core cultivators from the Spirit Blood Sect, and even wounded their Nascent Soul Realm expert!"


    The soldiers around him were beyond shocked, and some had already started sending reports with their Transmission Talismans.


    The three demons hadn''t gone far when they overheard Lin Yu''s words, revealing shocked expressions.


    As it turned out, the storyteller had been actually talking about their master all along! It wasn''t a case of two people with the same name; it was the same person!


    The three demons finally understood what kind of battle had taken ce over a decade ago.


    No wonder their master had spent nearly a dozen years recovering while buried underground.


    In front of the Fang Manor, numerous members of the Fang Family wereing and going, eyeing the three demons with curiosity and scrutiny.


    Fang Chen, apanied by the three demons, was about to enter the Fang residence when several of the Fang Family''s members hurriedly stepped forward to block them.


    "This is the Fang residence. Are you here for someone?"


    "Is Elder Fang Ao around?" asked Fang Chen with a light smile.


    "You''re looking for Elder Fang Ao? Did you notify us in advance? We haven¡¯t received notice of any guests arriving today," said a member, his face suspicious.


    However, that member suddenly couldn''t help but feel that this person was quite familiar, as if he had seen him somewhere before. Yet, he was certain that he didn''t know any cultivator who was apanied by three demon cultivators.


    Suddenly, the voice of a woman sounded, cold. "Do you have business with my father?"


    The woman who spoke was leading a small child as she walked over.


    The Fang Family members around quickly bowed with sped hands. "Sister Fang Yun."


    Within the Fang family, the third branch held significant sway. Although the head of the family was still Fang Kun from the eldest branch, when it came to influence, the first, second, and fourth branchesbined weren''t a match to the third branch After all, it was the third branch that once produced a sword cultivator who saved the entire Hidden Cloud Region.


    The descendants of the Fang Family owed their lives to him and rightfully bowed in gratitude to him for his deeds.


    Fang Chen was surprised. "Fang Yun, you''re married? Is this your child?"


    He hadn''t expected that Fang Yun would have a child after ten years.


    "You are...?"


    Fang Yun paused momentarily, instinctively sizing up Fang Chen. As she looked, her eyes gradually filled with astonishment, disbelief, and shock.


    Fang Chen smiled and said, "It''s only a little over a decade, there is no reason for you not to recognize me, right?"


    Coupled with his appearance, when Fang Yun heard that familiar voice, she grew excited, and she eximed in disbelief, "Brother Fang Chen?! Is it really you? You''re actually alive!?"


    "Fang Chen!? He is Fang Chen!?"


    The members of the Fang Family around were stunned. Even the cultivators passing by stopped in their tracks to look over, their eyes filled with disbelief.


    Fang Chen!?


    They weren''t hearing things, were they? The Fang Chen from over a decade ago who shone brightly in the capital like a star?


    But how could he still be alive?! Back then, he had gone out with a bang, exhausting his lifespanpletely!


    Fang Chen nodded with a smile. "Yes, I didn¡¯t die."


    Upon receiving confirmation, Fang Yun, overwhelmed with emotion, quickly led her child to Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen smiled. "So you are a mother now."


    The child looked to be about three or four years old, gazing at Fang Chen with curious eyes. The child shifted his eyes to Fang Yun curiously and asked, "Mom, why does this uncle have the same name as me?"


    Fang Yun was momentarily stunned, her face flushed with embarrassment. She looked at Fang Chen, unsure how to respond.


    "Oh? You''re also called Fang Chen?"


    Fang Chen squatted down and slowly opened his eyes. Golden patterns spread across his eyes, and the surroundings turned into a series of virtual images imprinted in his vision. The images included the child before him.


    Although these virtual images were made up of lines, they were enough for Fang Chen to make out his real appearance.


    The child nodded obediently. "Yes, Uncle. My name is also Fang Chen. We have the same name and surname, how coincidental."


    Fang Yun smiled somewhat apologetically. "Fang Chen, after you left... to remember you... we gave him the same name as you. If you mind... I can change it.¡±


    "No need, this name is quite good.¡± Fang Chen chuckled lightly, then looked at Fang Yun. "Are his grandparents here? I passed by here today to take a look."


    Fang Yun was surprised. "You¡¯re passing by? Do you not n to stay?"


    Fang Chen smiled. "I''m going to Azure Cloud Empire for a trip and to handle some matters. I won''t stay here long, maybe just a few days."


    After a pause, he asked, "Are Fang Jue and Fang Xiu here as well?"


    Fang Yun thought for a moment and said, "Let''s talk on the way."


    She led Fang Chen to the residence of her parents, discussing many changes in the Fang family over the years on the way.


    The biggest change was that the Fang family had be the only pir of the Grand Qian Dynasty, as Fang Tingjian had advanced to the peak of the Golden Core Realm.


    The Jue family had declined, and the Grand Qian imperial family was somewhat faltering due to the actions of Qian Wuji.


    After what happened ten years ago, Immortal Void Rush took Fang Jue to the Purple Pole Dao Academy, and he passed the assessment, bing a disciple there. He woulde back once every two or three years.


    Fang Lingxing became a disciple under Master Chen and also went to the Azure Cloud Empire.


    Fang Xiu sessfully advanced to the Foundation Building Realm. The old masters intended for him to seed as the next family head, so he was currently learning from Fang Kun.


    "What about my good friend?" Fang Chen asked casually.


    "You mean Xia Ji? After he sent you away, he returned to the Grand Qian a few yearster. Upon his return, he left with Wu Ruochou and hasn''t been seen since."


    Fang Yun looked somewhat strange. "We encountered Xia Ji once at that time, and he seemed to have reached the Foundation Building Realm."


    Xia Ji had only been in the Grand Qian for a few years before and after. Fang Chen that when he first arrived, Xia Ji''s cultivation was still weak. In just a few years, he advanced to Foundation Building Realm, which proved Xia Ji''s talent and aptitude were top-notch.


    Fang Chen nodded with a smile. "Foundation Building Realm, that''s good news."


    Just like Fang Chen, Xia Ji had some secrets, and they both had enough tact not to delve into each other''s pasts. Not to mention that Xia Ji had also gained some benefits due to his merits from that incident, so it wasn''t surprising that he could advance to Foundation Building Realm within a short period.


    "Xia Ji has already reached the Foundation Building Realm... but we still have no news of Fairy Yu. Could something have happened after I went into the coffin?"


    Fang Chen''s thoughts stirred slightly.


    Making up his mind about this matter, he decided that after he settled in the Central Continent, he would take the opportunity to check the situation at the Void Immortal Sword Sect.


    As they continued on their way, the cultivators from the Fang family who received the news hurried over.


    "Fang Chen?"


    Fang Ao and his wife arrived in a sh. Upon seeing Fang Chen, they both showed expressions of astonishment.


    Fang Chen greeted them with a sped fist and a smile. "Elder Fang Ao, it''s been a long time. Are you both doing well?"


    A smile gradually appeared on Fang Ao''s face as he nodded repeatedly. "Good, good, good!"


    It wasn''t clear whether he was saying his health was good or that Fang Chen being alive was good news.


    "Fang Chen is really alive."


    "That''s great! He was able to easily defeat Golden Core cultivators back then and even injure Nascent Soul Realm cultivators. His strength now is probably even more unfathomable!"


    "Did he consume some sort of godly medicine? Back then, he seemed to have exhausted his lifespan, but now he looks like a young man again!"


    Many disciples of the Fang family whispered to each other. They had all personally experienced what happened that day and had seen Fang Chen go from a young man to a middle-aged man in the span of a few seconds.


    But now, Fang Chen looked like he was eighteen or neen, in the prime of his life!

 Chapter 464: The Ancestors Have Kept it for You

    <h4>Chapter 464: The Ancestors Have Kept it for You</h4>


    Chapter 464: The Ancestors Have Kept it for You


    More and more disciples from the Fang family rushed over, including many from the older generation who had reached the Foundation Building Realm. For example, the group led by Fang Mosheng. When they saw Fang Chen, their eyes widened with amazement and shock.


    "What''s with all the ruckus?!" An impatient voice rang out as Fang Wanli floated over holding a gourd of wine, ring at everyone and scolding, "Why are youzing around not doing your work and gathering here at the ancestors'' cultivation site?"


    "Ancestor, Fang Chen has returned," someone cautiously spoke up.


    Fang Wanli rebuked angrily, "Fang Chen?! That kid gave up his life a long time ago and his body ran cold by the time we got to him. Are you trying to deceive me?"


    The crowd fell silent and the scene became somewhat quiet.


    Feeling that something was afoot, Fang Wanli''s gaze swept around until it finallynded on Fang Chen.


    Fang Wanli''s eyes widened with disbelief, and he eximed, "Kid, did you reallye back from the dead? They say a person can return to life within seven days, why did it take you more than ten years?"


    "Ancestor, Fang Chen is still alive. Look, there''s a shadow on the ground," Fang Yun whispered.


    "Impossible, I personally checked back then. The vitality in his body waspletely depleted and his lifespan was exhausted. How could he still be alive?" Fang Wanli shook his head repeatedly. "Those ten strikes... each one of them consumed his lifespan. If it were me, I would''ve died long ago, let alone him!"


    Fang Wanli then looked at Fang Chen and said, "Kid, how have you been down there? If you haven''t been doing well, don''t worry. Because of you, our Fang Family has gained many benefits over these past ten years. The ancestors have been keeping it for you. We''ll burn it all down for you to spend one day."


    "Ancestor, are you drunk?" Fang Chen said helplessly.


    The crowd only then noticed that Fang Wanli''s face was flushed red, obviously intoxicated, making him look a bit disoriented, with his mind not very clear.


    "Wanli, how many times have I told you? Since you may follow the Dao of Alcohol, I won''t stop you, but remember not to let it lead you astray," said Fang Tingjian as he walked over slowly, first scolding Fang Wanli and then nodding toward Fang Chen. "Follow me."


    "Wait here," instructed Fang Chen to the three demons before following Fang Tingjian.


    Fang Wanli was stunned for a moment, then suddenly looked at everyone to ask, "Is the kid really alive?"


    Everyone silently nodded.


    "Shit! Drinking too much is really a problem!" Fang Wanli cursed under his breath and hurriedly followed the other two.


    After the three left, everyone''s gaze fell on the three demons.


    Facing so many Qi Refining Realm and Foundation Building Realm cultivators, Profound Green was a little ufortable and turned away unnaturally.


    "What''s the rtionship between the three of you and Brother Fang Chen?" Fang Yun asked curiously.


    Victorious Buddha bowed respectfully to Fang Yun. "We are Master''s disciples."


    Fang Ao was surprised. "You are Brother Fang Chen''s disciples?"


    He nced at his wife.


    Sure enough, extraordinary people had unique ways of epting disciples. All three of them were demon cultivators....


    "The three of you, Brother Fang Chen has something to discuss with the ancestor. We might as well wait in the reception hall," Fang Ao suggested with a smile.


    Victorious Buddha thought for a moment and nodded softly. "Thank you."


    "No need to be polite, we are all on the same side."


    Fang Ao smiled and then turned to Fang Kun in the crowd, "Ancestor, don''t we have some spiritual fruits for demon cultivators in our treasury? Let''s bring them out to entertain these three."


    Fang Kun nodded silently.


    ***


    "This storage ring contains fifty thousand low-grade spirit stones." Fang Tingjian took out a storage ring and handed it to Fang Chen. "Back then, you killed many Golden Core cultivators and saved many people. Some of these spirit stonese from the benefits that Fang''s family has reaped over the years because of you. Some are gifts from others who wanted to express their gratitude. Since you weren''t around before, both Wanli and I kept them for you. If you couldn''t make it, they would have been passed on to someone close to you in the future."


    "Fifty thousand low-grade spirit stones?"


    Fang Chen''s eyes lit up, and he directly epted them. He was currently in need of spirit stones as he had spent everything he had.


    Seeing the spirit stones, Little Sword and Mirror of the Universe became excited, especially the former, which hadn''t devoured any treasures in many years and was hungry for them.


    "Kid, can you tell us how you came back to life? We personally examined your corpse and clearly confirmed you were beyond saving," Fang Wanli asked with curiosity.


    Fang Tingjian nced at him and said lightly, "As cultivators, haven''t we seen some miracles? Instead of worrying about this, it''s better to think about how to break through your current bottleneck."


    Fang Wanli looked embarrassed. He had been stuck at the early stage of the Golden Core Realm for many years. He wasn¡¯t showing any signs of breaking through either. His desire to do so seemed to have long faded, reced by a desire to drink more while he still had life left.


    "Originally, I left you more than just fifty thousand low-grade spirit stones. But for Fang Wanli''s sake, I''ve decided to use some of it to trade for medium-grade spirit stones to help him break through the bottleneck." Fang Tingjian looked at Fang Chen and whispered, "Consider it he owes you. In the future, if you need anything, ask him to pay you back."


    Fang Wanli smiled awkwardly.


    ¡°Ancestor, there''s no need to fuss over a few spirit stones.¡± Fang Chen smiled and shook his head. "Having these fifty thousand low-grade spirit stones is already a pleasant surprise for me; there''s no need for anything else."


    After a pause, Fang Chen''s smile gradually faded, and his expression became more solemn. "Ancestor, in these past dozen years, has there been any movement from the Spirit Blood Sect?"


    Fang Tingjian gently shook his head. "They dare not cause any disturbance in the Hidden Cloud Region. After that day, Immortal Void Rush spread the news far and wide. Now, if anyone wants to start a war, whether they are Spirit Blood Sect cultivators or not, they will all be dealt with ordingly. After a few incidents like that, no one dares to have such thoughts lightly, and Spirit Blood Sect cultivators dare not show their faces again."


    He sneered coldly. "I reckon they never expected that this incident would lead to such serious consequences. I estimate that for the next few hundred years, there won''t be major disturbances in the Hidden Cloud Region. As for minor skirmishes, they are not worth paying attention to."


    Fang Chen nodded thoughtfully. It seemed that the Blood Spirit Sect had indeed suffered a major setback. At least the Hidden Cloud Region had learned its lesson and wouldn''t be easily disturbed by them anymore.


    "By the way, Immortal Void Rush speaks highly of you. The Fang family''s development in recent years also has a lot to do with her care," Fang Tingjian said with a faint smile. "When you have time, you can go see her. And check on Fang Jue, I heard he has sessfully formed his Golden Core."


    "I want to go to the Jade Void Mountain first," Fang Chen said.


    "Jade Void Mountain? Why go there? That big tiger''s temperament is not good," Fang Wanlimented subconsciously.


    Fang Tingjian frowned slightly. "You should show respect to a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator."


    Fang Wanli nodded repeatedly. "Yes yes, it''s Immortal White Tiger, not a big tiger."


    Fang Chen smiled. "I have three disciples who are demon cultivators, and I can''t teach them much. So, I want them to be disciples of Immortal White Tiger. After all, he owes me a favor, and favors must be repaid."

 Chapter 465: Map

    <h4>Chapter 465: Map</h4>


    Fang Tingjian nodded lightly. ¡°If it''s demon cultivators, going to the Jade Void Mountain is quite suitable."


    "Patriarch, has Kunlong Battle General appeared since then?" Fang Chen asked.


    Fang Tingjian shook his head. "As long as Nascent Soul Realm cultivators don''t want others to notice their presence, no one can sense them."


    Fang Chen nodded. "That''s true."


    After exchanging pleasantries, someone came to report that Princess Shenlong had arrived outside.


    "By the way, in recent years, a few sword cultivators from the Void Immortal Sword Sect havee to the Grand Qian, and Princess Shenlong was scolded quite harshly. If it weren''t for our testimony, that sword cultivator might''ve killed her because of Qian Wuji," Fang Wanli said softly. "She''s here to see you. She probably hopes that you''ll say a few good words for her at the Void Immortal Sword Sect."


    Fang Chen was slightly surprised. "Speak up for her? What has the Void Immortal Sword Sect done to the Qian Family?"


    "The Qian Family had several earth veins chopped into two by sword cultivators from the Void Immortal Sword Sect. Since then, those earth veins have been abandoned. The Qian Family doesn''t dare to reim them, and other families also don''t dare to touch them casually," Fang Tingjian said lightly. "If possible, you can say a few words to help her out andpletely resolve the misunderstanding."


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "The Void Immortal Sword Sect is in a first-tier empire. Let''s talk about thister."


    In the reception hall, all the unrted people were driven out, leaving only Fang Chen, his demon disciples, Fang Tingjian, Fang Wanli, Princess Shenlong, Fang Ao, and other cultivators in the Foundation Building Realm.


    Princess Shenlong stared at Fang Chen for a while, her expression bing more and more incredulous. Earlier, she had received the reports from below, and when she came to know of the contents of these reports, she became quite flustered and scolded her people, saying that they had mixed up someone else with him.


    However, she couldn''t believe her eyes when she really saw that it was Fang Chen.


    <i>His background and origins are too mysterious.</i>


    She bowed to Fang Chen with sped hands, showing respect. "Fellow cultivator Fang, please ept my respects."


    Fang Chen returned the gesture and went straight to the point. "Is there something you wish to discuss with me, Princess?"


    Princess Shenlong looked slightly embarrassed as she exined why she was there.


    It was indeed as Fang Wanli had spected, it was about the earth veins.


    Fang Chen was puzzled. "Since that person from the Void Immortal Sword Sect has already left after venting his anger, why didn''t you send someone to reim the earth veins?"


    "It''s not that simple..." Princess Shenlong shook her head with a bitter smile. "Without someone standing up for me, I dare not easily reim the veins. You know how sword cultivators are; they¡ª"


    Princess Shenlong cut herself short and immediately exined herself to Fang Chen, "Friend Fang, I''m not talking about you. Your temperament is different from theirs..."


    Fang Chen sighed inwardly, realizing he had underestimated the weight of the Void Immortal Sect in the eyes of ordinary cultivators. No wonder the Kunlong Battle General didn''t remain indifferent when he learned that Jing Yuehan was a sword cultivator from the Void Immortal Sword Sect.


    It was likely that even if those Golden Core Realm experts died under Fang Chen and Jing Yuehan¡¯s swords the other day, the Void Immortal Sword Sect would still retaliate against their factions. With such temperament and methods, it was no wonder ordinary cultivators feared sword cultivators so much.


    "Alright, I''ll leave a letter with you. If you encounter sword cultivators from the Void Immortal Sword Sect in the future, you can hand it to them," Fang Chen pondered aloud.


    Princess Shenlong was delighted and quickly stood up to bow to Fang Chen.


    When the three demons saw that even Golden Core Realm cultivators were polite to their master, they all felt very emotional. They recalled when they first met Fang Chen. He wasn¡¯t that strong back then.


    Soon, Princess Shenlong received the letter and felt relieved. She then took out a storage ring and handed it to Fang Chen. "Fellow cultivator Fang, there are ten thousand low-grade spirit stones in here. Please don''t think it''s too little. These years have been tough for the Qian Family..."


    Fang Chen smiled and nodded as he epted the storage ring. "I won''t be polite then."


    After exchanging a few more pleasantries, Princess Shenlong took her leave, seemingly nning to reim those veins as soon as possible.


    ***


    Lord Tiger sat in his rocking chair, basking in the sun. He held a pastry in one hand and a teapot in the other, asionally taking a bite of the pastry and taking a sip of tea, looking very rxed.


    "This past decade has been pretty peaceful, which is good in some ways. But my business has been quite sluggish,"


    His distant rtive and servant stood nearby, keeping his head down and not saying a word.


    "Lord Tiger, are you well?" A voice suddenly sounded.


    Lord Tiger jumped, and the pastry in his hand fell to the ground, and the teapot took a dive and shattered. He reflexively looked toward the shadow in the corner.


    A figure slowly emerged from the shadows, smiling as he looked at him.


    Lord Tiger was stunned, and even his servant turned pale with fright.


    <i>How could it be him!?</i>


    Lord Tiger soon recovered from his shock. He said with pleasant surprise, "Master Fang, you''re actually not dead?"


    Fang Chen took a seat opposite Lord Tiger and nodded lightly. "I was quite lucky and didn''t die."


    He then said, "Let me ask you something."


    "Of course, please go ahead!" Lord Tiger hurriedly replied.


    Fang Chen smiled. "When Xia Ji left, did he say goodbye to you?"


    Lord Tiger suddenly remembered something and looked at Fang Chen with a strange expression. "When Xia Ji left, he dide to me. He said that if you evere looking for him, I should tell you that he and his senior sister went to the first-tier Central Continent Empire. At that time, I thought he was joking with me, especially since Honored Fang...¡± Lord Tiger trailed off, realizing what he had almost said, his face turning embarrassed. Back then, he had thought Xia Ji was joking, but it turned out to be true.


    Fang Chen furrowed his brow, and he mumbled, "The first-tier Central Continent Empire?"


    Why would Xia Ji take Wu Ruochou and go to the Central Continent Empire? It was extremely far from here. If he didn''t know the correct route, it could take him decades before he reached there.


    "If Honored Fang wants to find Xia Ji, you can set off at any time. Judging by the time, he probably just arrived in the Central Continent Empire not long ago," Lord Tiger said.


    Fang Chen nced at him. "How do you know? Does Xia Ji know the route to the Central Continent Empire?"


    Lord Tiger chuckled, as if he had earned a lot. "He does. He even sold me the route for five thousand low-grade spirit stones. Those were the savings I umted over the years, but thanks to him, I''ve made a profit in recent years."


    But then, his smile froze because he seemed to understand why Xia Ji had sold him the route to the Central Continent Empire...


    "Give me a copy of the route, and name your price," Fang Chen said with a half-smile.


    ¡°Honored Fang, it was you who saved this old man''s wretched life. There''s no need to stand on ceremony. The route is in this jade slip. Please ept it!" Lord Tiger said solemnly, handing over a jade slip to Fang Chen respectfully.


    However, Lord Tiger inwardly grumbled, "That rascal Xia Ji yed me like a fiddle. Next time, I hope I never see him again!"


    Fang Chen epted the jade slip, and with a surge of spiritual energy, a map appeared in his mind. The map showed a route straight to the Central Continent Empire. Xia Ji having the route to the Central Continent Empire indirectly confirmed that he indeed had his own opportunities.


    <i>Well, that''s good. We can catch up when I reach the Central Continent Empire,</i> Fang Chen thought with a smile in his eyes.

 Chapter 466: Fishing

    <h4>Chapter 466: Fishing</h4>


    Several dayster, Fang Chen set off with the three demons, and hundreds of disciples from the Fang Family apanied them for hundreds of miles, creating an impressive spectacle. When people inquired, they learned that Fang Chen, the once-dead sword cultivator, had returned to life, shaking the entire Great Qian region.


    Jue Shi and Jue Tiangang''s expressions were grim as they looked at the kneeling youth.


    The youth''s face was tear-streaked. "Father, I didn''t know his background was so significant. He turned out to be the sword cultivator who came back from the dead...."


    Jue Tiangang spoke calmly. "The first time Fang Chen came to Great Qian, Lin Yu offended him, andter the Lin family fell apart, with Lin Yu bing a waste. Now, the second time he came to Great Qian, you''ve offended him. Do you want the Jue Family to end up like the Lin family? Do you want to beg for alcohol on the streets in the future?"


    Many elders and disciples of the Jue n surrounded them, their expressions a mix of anger andplexity as they looked at the youth.


    "Father, I really didn''t know. If I had known, even if you gave me ten times more courage, I wouldn''t have dared..." The youth begged for mercy. "Please, Father, give me another chance...."


    "Now that the news of that day has spread outside, it seems that various families are getting restless," Jue Tiangang said calmly. "I have to make our stance clear to the Fang Family to ensure the stability of the Jue n. From today onwards, you will be in closed-door cultivation for a hundred years and not step outside the Jue n''s boundaries. I will send the word out. If anyone sees you outside, they can exchange your head for a thousand low-grade spirit stones."


    The youth despaired. "Father!"


    He had to enter closed-door cultivation for a hundred years? Cultivation was extremely boring. Not being able to step out for a hundred years was worse than death!


    ***


    Several dayster, Fang Chen suddenly saw a monk standing in the void ahead, as if waiting for someone.


    Fang Chen smiled lightly. "Master Chanyuan, it''s been a long time."


    Master Chanyuan sped his hands together in a Buddhist salute. "Amitabha, benefactor, you don¡¯t seem surprised to see this poor monk?"


    "What''s there to be surprised about? I''ve caused quite a stir in the Great Qian Imperial Capital, I assume that you must have received the news long ago?" Fang Chen smiled. "I thought I was just fishing for a few small fish, and didn''t expect to hook a big fish like you."


    The three demon disciples were startled. "Chanyuan? The Spirit Blood Sect''s Kunlong Battle General? A Nascent Soul Realm powerhouse?"


    Having stayed in the Fang Family manor for a few days, they had already heard about the events of the past years and knew how terrifying this Nascent Soul expert was. Almost single-handedly, he nearly refined three experts at the same level!


    Looking at Fang Chen, their eyes were filled with a bitter smile. How did their master manage to hook this big fish....


    Master Chanyuan fell silent for a moment and then softly asked, "Are you doing this on purpose?"


    "Master Chanyuan has been staying in the Hidden Cloud Region these years? I heard that there''s not muchmotion happening there anymore," Fang Chen responded with a question.


    "Just for some time." Master Chanyuan shook his head lightly, then continued, "Why isn''t benefactor worried at all? You don''t have a Nascent Soul Realm expert protecting you this time. This poor monk only needs to wave his finger, and benefactor won''t survive."


    "If that''s the case, why haven¡¯t you made a move yet? Surely you still harbor resentment from that incident in the past, right? After all, if it weren''t for me dying the time, perhaps your n would have seeded, and the Spirit Blood Sect wouldn''t have suffered such heavy losses." Fang Chen smiled. "Now that there is indeed no Nascent Soul Realm expert present, and there are no ambushes around, Master shouldn''t be so cautious, just make your move directly."


    Master Chanyuan fell silent for a moment and then spoke softly, "Benefactor, have you ever thought about joining the Spirit Blood Sect? The Spirit Blood Sect is in need of talents like you. With your talent, you can ascend to the Golden Core Realm in just a few years. There is also hope for Nascent Soul cultivation in the future."


    Fang Chen''s face showed a hint of faint sarcasm. "I''m not ustomed to being a rat. You''re asking the wrong person."


    Master Chanyuan furrowed his brows. "Why does benefactor look down on the Spirit Blood Sect so much? All we do is provide a chance for the cultivators of the world to be immortals. What does the life of ordinary people count as? We won''t let ordinary peoplepletely perish, we just seek a bnce."


    "That sounds nice, but isn''t it just for your own selfish interests?" Fang Chen said lightly, "Whether the cultivators in this world can be immortals or not depends on themselves, it has nothing to do with the Spirit Blood Sect. You are just finding excuses to deceive others and yourselves. Kunlong Battle General, don''t forget, before stepping into the path of immortality, you were just an ordinary person."


    At this point, Fang Chen''s face showed a faint smile. "You are simply ming the toilet for not producing shit. Cowards will find excuses for their failures, but strong individuals will only continue to grow stronger and never me their failures on others."


    ¡°Amitabha, it seems that the benefactor''s ideology is ipatible with the Spirit Blood Sect,¡± Master Chanyuan sighed softly. ¡°No matter how much I persuade you, I cannot make you see the right path.¡±


    Fang Chen chuckled. "Right, are you still not going to make a move? If you don''t, then I''ll leave, I have many things to attend to."


    Master Chanyuan deeply gazed at Fang Chen, then stepped on a lotus flower and disappeared into the sky in an instant.


    When Victorious Buddhaa saw Master Chanyuan leave, he sighed in relief and quickly asked, "Master, was that person just now the Spirit Blood Sect''s Kunlong Battle General?"


    Tiger Mountain Lord and Profound Green also stared at Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "Yes, it was him."


    "Fortunately, he didn''t dare to make a move..." Victorious Buddhaa muttered to himself.


    Fang Chen smiled lightly. "He didn''t dare? You spoke too soon."


    At the next moment, a lotus flower the size of a mountain descended from the sky, and the figure of the Kunlong Battle General flickered within it.


    The terrifying aura instantly rendered the demons powerless to fight. They couldn''t even circte their spiritual energy.


    All Fang Chen did was take out a tombstone. Immediately after, an extremely pure sword intent shot out from the tombstone, instantly shattering the lotus flower and piercing through the heart of the Kunlong Battle General.


    The world seemed to fall silent, bing incredibly quiet.


    The Kunlong Battle General fell from the sky, a look of confusion on his face. Just as he was about tond, his figure suddenly stopped in mid-air. He clutched his chest with one hand, staring at Fang Chen.


    "What kind of sword intent is this?"


    Kunlong Battle General''s voice was extremely hoarse.


    ¡°Still not dead?¡± Fang Chen sighed inwardly. It was a pity; he couldn''t actively unleash that sword intent, so he had to wait for the opponent to strike first. Judging from the situation, the Kunlong Battle General was seriously injured and unlikely to make another move.


    "Do you want to find out? Feel free to make a move," Fang Chen said with a faint smile.


    The Kunlong Battle General remained silent, just coldly staring at Fang Chen for a while before suddenly chuckling lightly. "There''s no need for me to make a move. You killed Jue Wudi back then. Do you know who his senior brother is? Do you know who his master is? I heard that Jue Wudi''s second senior brother also died at your hands that day. It won''t be long before we meet again."


    With that, the Kunlong Battle General turned and left.


    Fang Chen waited for a dozen breaths, then turned to his demons with a smile. "He''s really gone this time. Did you learn any lessons today?"


    The three demons were slightly puzzled. "What lessons?"


    "Don''t go fishing without certainty. It can be quite troublesome if identally fish out a shark," Fang Chen said, then continued leading them toward the Azure Cloud Empire.


    The Kunlong Battle General probably wouldn''t recover from his injuries in a short time.

 Chapter 467 Qinghua Gate

    <h4>Chapter 467 Qinghua Gate</h4>


    In a peaceful little mountain vige, a bustling crowd had gathered.


    Every household had brought their children who were under ten years old to the vige''s field at the entrance. They all wore excited smiles as they looked at the white-haired vige elder at the front.


    "Everyone," the vige elder cleared his throat, "today is a great day for the Qinghua Gate to ept disciples. A few days ago, I received a message saying that an immortal master from Qinghua Gate would be visiting today. You must take care of your little ones and not let them rush toward the immortal master."


    One of the people in the crowd chuckled. "Vige elder, don''t worry. These little ones are very well-behaved. They wouldn¡¯t dare to rush towards the immortal master?"


    The vige elder nodded with a smile, his eyes showing a hint of anticipation. "The Niuxin Vige has been around for over a hundred years, and no one has ever joined the Qinghua Gate. You must work hard this time. The neighboring Niufei Vige had someone chosen by an immortal master thirty years ago, and they''ve been living a happy life for decades."


    The faces of the people around turned envious at the mention of the Niufei Vige.


    At that moment, a middle-aged man whose eyes were filled with anger swung his shoe sole crazily at a boy of around six and shouted, "You little brat, why are you here today to join in the fun? Hurry back to wash the cowshed!"


    The boy was slender, and his skin was tanned. He kept evading the shoe swung his way, but he didn''t leave, unwilling to do so. His eyes were filled with a hint of determination. He knew that his chance hade. He had to see the immortal master, and he couldn''t afford to miss his arrival.


    The crowd appeared to take joy in the boy''s misfortune, and the children chimed in, sneering, "Little Cow Dung, You''re stinky all over. No dad, no mom. Nobody cares for you."


    "Be a beggar, be a beggar! Even dogs would avoid you!"


    The teasing from the kids made the adults burst outughing.


    Just then, several figures suddenly appeared in the sky andnded in front of everyone.


    "Demons?!"


    Everyone was terrified, and they all froze in fear as they stared nkly at the figures before them.


    A green snake, a tiger, and a monkey, all of whom were muchrger than ordinary beasts!


    Fortunately, the vige elder wasn''t clueless about the world, and he saw that the young man in their midst seemed like an immortal, so he quickly bowed and greeted him. "This old man here greets you, Immortal!"


    "An immortal?!"


    Everyone was stunned. Since when did the Qinghua Gate''s immortals have three demons apanying them?


    At that moment, a figure rushed to stand before Fang Chen. He fell to his knees and began to kowtow. He kept hitting his forehead against the hard bluestone ground of the sun-drying field till it became stained with blood.


    The slender figure belonged to none other than Little Cow Dung, who had just been beaten by the middle-aged man and mocked by his peers.


    Fang Chen gently raised his hand, lifting the child with a gentle surge of spiritual energy, preventing him from continuing to kowtow.


    Puzzled, Fang Chen turned to the vige elder and asked, "Old man, what''s going on?"


    The vige elder was embarrassed, unsure of how to answer. In the end, he could only shout at the middle-aged man, "Why haven''t you brought this kid back yet?!"


    "Yes, yes," replied the middle-aged man.


    He stepped forward to take the child away, but he found himself blocked by an invisible force, as if there was an invisible wall in front of him.


    The middle-aged man was shocked. Was that the power of an immortal master?


    "Elder, may I ask what you are doing here?" Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    The vige elder quickly replied, "A master from the Qinghua Gate will being to recruit disciples from the vige today. We are waiting here for him."


    "Qinghua Gate?"


    "Yes, every ten years, a master from Qinghua Gatees to the Niuxin Vige to recruit disciples, and masters from other ces also visit."


    Fang Chen was slightly surprised. It seemed that the rtionship between the immortal sects and ordinary people in the Azure Cloud Empire was closer than those in the fifth or sixth-tier empires. The fact that there was a set schedule for people to descend the mountain to recruit disciples indicated that these sects had abundant resources.


    The vige elder asked cautiously, "Are you the master from Qinghua Gate?"


    "Me? No." Fang Chen shook his head with a smile. "Elder, this is Yun Cang''s territory, right?"


    The vige elder looked a bit confused. "Yun Cang?"


    "He''s not from the Qinghua Gate?"


    The people in the crowd were surprised. Could it be that there were other ces with immortal masters other than Qinghua Gate?


    The slender child was bewildered, and he stood in ce, rooted.


    Just then, several cranes hovered in the sky and slowlynded in front of everyone. As soon as theynded, the crane in the lead directed a hostile gaze toward Tiger Mountain Lord and the other demons.


    There was a middle-aged man with a dark face seated on the back of the crane. Behind him, several other cranes carried young men and women who appeared to be in their twenties or thirties.


    The vige elder and the others quickly knelt down and paid their respects.


    "We pay our respects to the immortal masters!"


    There were a number of children who didn''t know what was happening and didn''t follow the others'' lead to kowtow in respect. Their parents quickly pressed them to the ground so they could pay their respects too.


    The middle-aged man with a dark face nodded slightly, his gaze indifferent yet carrying a hint of arrogance. He looked at Fang Chen and said calmly, "Fellow Cultivator, may I know which sect you belong to and if you are aware that this is the territory of Qinghua Gate?"


    "I am just passing through and asking for directions," Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    <i>Asking for directions?</i>


    The middle-aged man''s expression eased up a little. He nced at Tiger Mountain Lord and the other demons and realized that they were only at the Qi Refining Realm, so he didn''t pay much attention to them. He turned to Fang Chen and asked, "Where are youing from, and where are you headed? The vigers here know little and have never ventured beyond fifty miles. Asking them for directions would be useless."


    "May I ask, is this Yun Cang''s territory?" Fang Chen inquired.


    "Yes, this is Yun Cang''s territory. So, Fellow Cultivator, you are not from Yun Cang?" The middle-aged man''s eyes flickered slightly. "May I ask where you are heading and what brings you to Yun Cang?"


    "I n to visit Jade Void Mountain," Fang Chen said with a smile.


    Jade Void Mountain!


    The middle-aged man was shocked, and his arrogance faded, reced by surprise and doubt. "Are you a disciple of Jade Void Mountain?"


    Purple Pole Dao Academy, Jade Void Mountain, and Chenxiang Temple. These were the top three sects in the Azure Cloud Empire. If ced against these three major sects, the Qinghua Gate would be like a grain of rice facing the brilliance of the full moon.


    "I have only had a chance encounter with Master White Tiger. I am going there to pay him a visit," said Fang Chen.


    "Oh, my, how should I address you? I am Liu Buyun, a steward of Qinghua Gate," Liu Buyun said, stepping forward with a warm smile. It was a stark contrast to his earlier cold and arrogant demeanor.


    "I am Fang Wanli, a wandering cultivator. Greetings, Fellow Cultivator Liu," Fang Chen replied politely.


    Liu Buyun and Fang Chen exchanged pleasantries warmly until a disciple reminded Liu Buyun that their time was limited, which made Liu Buyun recall his main purpose ining here.


    "Fellow Cultivator Fang, please wait for a moment. After today''s affairs are settled, may I invite you to visit Qinghua Gate as my guest?" Liu Buyun asked.


    Seeing that Liu Buyun was at the Foundation Building Realm and had personallye out to recruit disciples, Fang Chen realized that Qinghua Gate''s background was not weak. They should be aware of the location of the nearby Heavenly Treasure Pavilion and the precise direction to Jade Void Mountain, so spending one or two hours on the way should not be a problem.


    Thinking about it, Fang Chen smiled and nodded. "Then I will trouble Fellow Cultivator Liu."


    Upon seeing this, Liu Buyun immediately took out a Spiritual Measuring Bell and said to the old vige chief and the others, "You know the rules. Step up for the assessment. Niuxin Vige is ourst stop today. I hope you can produce one or two good seedlings this time."

 Chapter 468: Unexpected Encounter

    <h4>Chapter 468: Unexpected Encounter</h4>


    Fang Chen had witnessed a spirit measurement once before, and Liu Buyun''s Spiritual Measurement Bell was simr to the one he had seen before. Only, their quality was different. This Spiritual Measuring Bell was of higher quality.


    Slowly, hundreds of children from Niuxin Vige took the test.


    In the end, most of them couldn''t even make the bell chime three times. The one with the most talent had made the bell chime four times.


    Back at the assessment that had been held in the Grand Xia Empire, a four-chime talent was only enough to follow a wandering cultivator. A talent such as this was considered only passable.


    Liu Buyun was very disappointed. Shaking his head, he turned Fang Chen and said, "Fellow Cultivator Fang, let''s return to Qinghua Gate."


    The old vige chief as well as the many parents looked disappointed, and the hundreds of children were all confused.


    Curious, Fang Chen pointed to the thin child and asked, "Didn¡¯t that child produce four chimes? A talent like that isn''t enough to make it into the Qinghua Gate?"


    The child''s gaze was determined as he stared at Liu Buyun.


    "Four chimes? The prerequisite to enter the Qinghua Gate is to produce six chimes. Those with four-chimes talent can at most reach the seventh or eighth level of Qi Refining Realm, and they would require a lot of cultivation resources to do so." Liu Buyun softly shook his head. "The Qinghua Gate doesn''t ept such disciples."


    Although the Qinghua Gate had abundant resources, they pursued to nurture the strongest experts.


    This made Fang Chen gain some understanding of the situation in the cultivation world of the Azure Cloud Empire.


    If this child had been at the me Empire, there was a high chance he could''ve embarked on the path to immortality. Being born in a cultivation powerhouse like the Azure Cloud Empire might not necessarily be a blessing.


    Fang Chen suddenly smiled. "If you don''t want to ept him, Friend Liu, then I will take this child with me."


    The thin child was stunned. He stared at Fang Chen in disbelief as tears streamed down his cheek uncontrobly.


    "Little Cow Dung is actually so lucky?"


    The vigers of Niuxin Vige were dumbfounded, and the middle-aged man who had just used his shoe sole to beat Little Cow Dung was frozen in ce.


    Seeing this, the old vige chief hurriedly said, "Little Cow Dung, kneel down and kowtow!"


    Little Cow Dung knelt down and kowtowed repeatedly, hitting his head against the ground.


    <i>Bang, bang, bang!</i>


    No spiritual power stopped him this time.


    The three demons didn''t find it strange at all. Even small demons like them had been taken in as disciples, let alone the young man who seemed to have a lot of talent.


    Unable to help himself, Liu Buyunmented, "Fellow Cultivator Fang, with a talent like his, it would only be a waste of spiritual materials."


    Fang Chen didn''tment on that, and instead said, "Speaking of spiritual materials, Friend Liu, do you know where the nearest Heavenly Treasure Pavilion is? I n to visit Immortal White Tiger, and it wouldn''t be good to go empty-handed."


    Liu Buyun''s eyes lit up. "What a coincidence. I was just about to go to the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion after I was done here. If you want to go there, Fellow Cultivator Fang, why don''t we go together?"


    Fang Chen nodded with a smile. "That would be great."


    "Little Cow Dung, remember to behave well in the future when you''re with the immortal master. If you have time, remember toe back and visit the vige," the old vige chief kept reminding Little Cow Dung as they were about to leave.


    Little Cow Dung nodded repeatedly to show his understanding.


    Even the middle-aged man who beat him with his shoe sole went back to get some dry rations and a jar of pickles to give him. "Take these for the journey. You will be an immortal master in the future, so don''t hold grudges against me."


    As he spoke, the middle-aged man''s expression wasplicated.


    ¡°Fifth Uncle, I don''t resent you. If it weren''t for your help when I was stranded in the vige, I would have starved to death long ago,¡± Little Cow Dung said softly.


    The middle-aged man nodded gently, no longer speaking.


    Seeing this, Fang Chen lightly waved his sleeve, and a misty cloud lifted everyone into the air.


    On the way to Qinghua Gate, Liu Buyun intentionally or unintentionally wanted to probe into the nature of the rtionship between Fang Chen and Immortal White Tiger.


    "Fellow Cultivator Fang, although the Jade Void Mountain is highly renowned, only a select few human cultivators in the Azure Cloud Empire can visit the mountain. Aren''t you afraid that you''ll end up devoured by the demon cultivators from the Jade Void Mountain?" Liu Buyun asked tentatively.


    "Immortal White Tiger and I have a deep connection. It''s unlikely that the demon cultivators under him would dare to devour me," Fang Chen said lightly.


    Liu Buyun immediately confirmed that Fang Chen indeed was acquaintanced with Immortal White Tiger. No ordinary cultivator would dare to make up a rtionship with a Nascent Soul powerhouse. After all, if word went out about it, death would be the only oue.


    The Qinghua Gate was only five hundred miles away from Niuxin Vige, so they quickly arrived at the gate of Qinghua Gate.


    Fang Chen''s divine soul soared into the sky.


    All it took was a single nce for Fang Chen to learn that Qinghua Gate had an early stage Golden Core Realm cultivator presiding over it. There were also about a dozen auras belonging to Foundation Building Realm cultivators and several hundred Qi Refining cultivators. This level of strength was simr to the Sea Dragon Sect.


    Liu Buyun first went to hand in his mission then led Fang Chen and the others to the front of a cave dwelling.


    "Come out and meet Senior Brother Fang," Liu Buyun shouted loudly.


    Several young people who were practicing in the cave-dwelling came out one after another.


    ¡°Greetings, Senior Brother Fang,¡± the young people said collectively.


    There were five people, both male and female. It seemed they were Liu Buyun''s direct disciples.


    One of the young men was particrly interesting; he stood there dumbfounded upon seeing Fang Chen, unable to say a word.


    Ye Qinghe was astounded. "Senior Brother Fang?"


    He never expected to meet Fang Chen at Qinghua Gate. The appearance was unmistakable. He was definitely Fang Chen, even though he looked a few years younger than before. Even if Fang Chen turned into ashes, Ye Qinghe would still recognize him.


    "These five are all my disciples. All of them have six-chime talents and above. They may have the opportunity to inherit my mantle in the future," Liu Buyun said with a hint of pride.


    Upon hearing this, Little Cow Dung became somewhat restrained, and he peered up at Fang Chen cautiously, like a stray dog who had just been taken in, afraid that the new owner might get displeased and abandon it.


    ¡°Friend Liu, looks like there¡¯s someone I know among your disciples....¡± Fang Chen sighed slightly and looked at Ye Qinghe. ¡°What are you doing here? I remember you were taken in by a wandering cultivator as a disciple, weren¡¯t you?¡±


    What was even more strange was what Liu Buyun had just said; Qinghe didn''t have a six-chimes talent.


    Liu Buyun and his disciples were a bit surprised to hear that Ye Qinghe knew Fang Chen.


    "Senior... Senior Brother Fang, my former master was killed by a powerful enemy. I ended up in this ce and met my current master, who took me in," Ye Qinghe said, somewhat unustomed to calling Fang Chen his Senior Brother.


    But he deeply understood the hierarchy within the cultivation world, which was stricter than the small circles they had back in the capital of Grand Xia.


    "Fellow Cultivator Fang, you actually know Qinghe? This is truly a coincidence, it seems we have some destiny!" Liu Buyun eximed in surprise. "Is he a junior in your family or...?"


    "Master... Senior Brother Fang and I should be considered peers. We are almost the same age..." Ye Qinghe said softly.


    Everyone was shocked to hear this. They are almost the same age? But Ye Qinghe is only at the fourthyer of the Qi Refining Realm....


    <i>What was this person''s cultivation realm?</i>


    It was only now that Liu Buyun realized that he had overlooked an important point since the start. Because he couldn''t discern Fang Chen''s cultivation level, he subconsciously assumed that Fang Chen was the same as him, a Foundation Building Realm expert.


    "Fellow Cultivator Fang, you...?"


    "I just recently broke through to Foundation Building Realm. Please forgive myck of manners," Fang Chen said with a smile.


    Ye Qinghe took in a sharp breath. <i>Fang Chen had just reached the Foundation Building Realm?!</i>


    Liu Buyun used Ye Qinghe''s age as a reference and immediately became more courteous.


    A cultivator that had reached Foundation Building Realm at such a young age, and who also had ties with Immortal White Tiger, was worth befriending!


    After exchanging a few pleasantries, Fang Chen cut to the chase and inquired about the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion.


    The Heavenly Treasure Pavilion originated from the Azure Cloud Empire. Their headquarters were located here, so buying a few top-grade, yellow-rank treasures here shouldn''t be an issue.

 Chapter 469 Dont Forget Everything in the Mortal Realm

    <h4>Chapter 469 Don''t Forget Everything in the Mortal Realm </h4>


    ording to Liu Buyun, there was a Heavenly Treasure Pavilion within the territory of the Qinghua Gate. However, the highest-grade treasures they sold were only in the upper yellow-rank


    Upon learning that Fang Chen wanted to purchase high-grade, yellow-rank treasures, Liu Buyun couldn''t help but take a sharp breath. In the end, he pointed out a ce.


    They would have to head over to the territory of the Nine Sword Sect!


    The Nine Sword Sect was a major sect with a Nascent Soul Realm expert overseeing it, so the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion in that area sold high-grade, yellow-rank treasures, although they were notmonly seen. Whether one could purchase them depended entirely on luck.


    Everyone sat on Liu Buyun''s flying ship and headed toward the territory of the Nine Sword Sect.


    Liu Buyun asionally nced at Fang Chen from the corner of his eye, unable to understand how a cultivator who had just reached the Foundation Building Realm stage could afford high-grade, yellow-rank treasures.


    Also... from what he was hearing, Fang Chen wanted to use such a treasure as a gift!


    Ye Qinghe saw Fang Chen standing on the deck and quietly walked up to him. He asked in a low voice, "Fang... Senior Brother Fang, how far is it from here to Grand Xia?"


    "Haven''t you asked the Qinghua Gate about that?" Fang Chen replied with a faint smile.


    Ye Qinghe''s expression wasplex. "The cultivation world is too chaotic. Sometimes, a careless word can provoke enemies. If they find out where Ie from, it may cause trouble for Grand Xia, so I never asked."


    Fang Chen nodded. "Since you understand this, it means that you haven''t lived in vain for these past dozen years."


    Ye Qinghe couldn''t help but feel old at thatment.


    He looked at Fang Chen, who looked somewhat simr to how Ye Qinghe remembered him, and then looked at himself. He sighed inwardly.


    He never expected that after more than a decade of wandering, he would meet an old acquaintance. Even though they had their differences and hadn''t been on good terms back then, Ye Qinghe still felt genuine joy when he met Fang Chen again.


    "Grand Xia is extremely far from here. With your strength, it''s unlikely that you can return alone. How about this, focus on cultivating well at the Qinghua Gate for now. If you can''t reach the Foundation Building Realm within the next twenty or thirty years, you can go to the Purple Pole Dao Academy and find a cultivator named Fang Jue. Tell him about our rtionship, and he will help you return to the Grand Qian Empire. Once you''re there, it will be much simpler for you to return to Grand Xia," Fang Chen said softly.


    Ye Qinghe was shocked. Purple Pole Dao Academy!


    Fang Chen actually knew disciples from the Purple Pole Dao Academy!


    Noticing the differences in their situations, Ye Qinghe couldn''t help but let out a sigh. They were supposedly peers, yet Fang Chen seemed to be thriving in the cultivation world.


    "By the way, I just returned to Grand Xia recently, and your father is in good health. Waiting for you for another few decades shouldn''t be a problem. When you return, it''s best to bring some longevity elixirs. Even if you be an immortal, don''t forget everything in the mortal realm," Fang Chen said lightly.


    "Don''t forget everything in the mortal realm..." Ye Qinghe muttered to himself.


    He suddenly realized that his memories of Grand Xia were bing somewhat blurry, and his longing to return wasn''t as strong as before. Wasn''t this a sign of forgetting everything from his mortal life?


    With these thoughts, Ye Qinghe broke out in a cold sweat and thanked Fang Chen sincerely, "Thank you for the reminder. I won''t forget."


    Fang Chen smiled and nodded, saying no more.


    Several dayster, the group arrived at the territory of the Nine Sword Sect.


    Liu Buyun put away the flying boat, and together with the others, they soared through the clouds and mist, arriving shortly at a bustling mountain city.


    It was called a mountain city because it was built along a continuous mountain range. Looking into the distance, one could vaguely see nine peaks standing like immortal swords in the depths of the mountains.


    "Fellow Cultivator Fang, we have arrived at the territory of the Nine Sword Sect," Liu Buyun said with a smile. This time, he intended to purchase some Spirit Essence Pills and exchange some treasures for his disciples.


    Fang Chen nodded lightly and headed straight to where the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion was located with Liu Buyun and the others.


    The Heavenly Treasure Pavilion servant wasn''t surprised when he saw the Tiger Mountain Lord and the other demons following Fang Chen. He stepped forward and greeted everyone with a professional smile, "Wee, esteemed guests. Pleasee inside."


    "I intend to purchase some Spirit Essence Pills and some low-grade, yellow-rank treasures. As for this gentleman...."


    Liu Buyun hadn''t finished speaking when a chubby man approached, followed by a group of young men and women.


    The chubby man saw Liu Buyun and seemed surprised. He immediately said, "Liu Buyun, what brings you to this ce?"


    Liu Buyun was slightly surprised to meet this person and inwardly cursed at how bad his luck was to actually meet his old rascal here.


    "If it isn''t Brother Zhang...."


    "Liu Buyun, instead of going to the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion in the Qinghua Gate''s territory, you came to our Nine Sword Sect''s Heavenly Treasure Pavilion. Are you nning to buy some good stuff? I remember you used to be as poor as a pauper. Have you recentlye into some money?¡± The chubby man chuckled.


    As soon as he spoke, the disciples behind himughed.


    Liu Buyun''s face instantly turned ugly.


    The disciples under him also red angrily at the chubby man. If the master was insulted, it was as though they were insulted too.


    Liu Buyun took a deep breath and smiled apologetically at Fang Chen. "I''ve embarrassed myself in front of, Fellow Cultivator Fang. Just let them know about whatever you need to buy. My disciples and I will wait for you outside."


    He understood that staying here would mean enduring continuous humiliation from this chubby man, and it was better to avoid it altogether. He couldn''t afford to provoke someone from the Nine Sword Sect who had reached the Foundation Building Realm.


    "There¡¯s no need to worry. Wait with me until I''m done with the transaction." Fang Chen shook his head lightly and then turned to the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion servant. "Get me twenty Spirit Essence Pills, and five low-grade, yellow-rank treasures, they kind with 12 Soul Imprints."


    The servant was slightly surprised but quickly reacted and turned to do as told.


    Liu Buyun was puzzled. "Fellow Cultivator Fang, what are you doing?"


    Fang Chen chuckled. "I''m buying a gift for these disciples of yours. At least they should call me their Martial Uncle now, shouldn¡¯t they?"


    Liu Buyun and his disciples were shocked. Not to mention the price of the five treasures, even twenty Spirit Essence Pills amounted to a considerable sum.


    The chubby man furrowed his brows slightly and looked Fang Chen up and down. He forced a smile and said, "Young Master¡ª"


    "Get lost," Fang Chen interrupted. "I don''t have time to chat with you."


    The chubby man was astounded, and his expression shifted erratically. In the end, he showed a dark smile and muttered, "Interesting...."


    Without saying anything else, he turned and left with his disciples.


    Liu Buyun''s expression changed several times. In the end, he could only manage a bitter smile. "Fellow Cultivator Fang, you didn''t have to do this. Zhang Shuzhou is a steward of the Nine Sword Sect, and he is very petty. I once saw him bully a female cultivator. I merely spoke a word of justice, and he held a grudge against me for decades...."


    As he spoke, Liu Buyun nced at where Zhang Shuzhou was. Sure enough, Zhang Shuzhou was secretly observing the two with his small, sinister eyes.


    ¡°No worries, don¡¯t take it to heart,¡± said Fang Chen with a faint smile.


    Watching this unfold, Ye Qinghe was excited. This scene reminded him of various incidents from when they were all young in the capital of Grand Xia, involving Fang Chen. Back then, he couldn¡¯t stand it, but today he felt... quite pleased!


    Ye Qinghe sighed inwardly. ¡°In the past, in Grand Xia''s capital, and now in the cultivation world.... Fang Chen has truly never changed."


    The servant from the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion quickly brought the items. Twenty Spirit Essence Pills were worth one thousand six hundred low-grade spirit stones, each pill priced at eighty spirit stones. It was much cheaperpared to the prices in Grand Qian. The five treasures totaled less than a thousand low-grade spirit stones.


    Everyone watched as Fang Chen settled the bill and then handed them the spirit pills and the treasures. They hesitated to ept, instinctively looking toward Liu Buyun.

 Chapter 470: Murder

    <h4>Chapter 470: Murder</h4>


    Liu Buyun nodded with a smile. "Take it. Since it''s a gift from Senior Brother Fang, don''t be polite. Just remember Senior Brother Fang''s kindness in the future."


    The five of them quickly epted the spirit pills and treasures, bowing to Fang Chen. "Thank you, Senior Brother Fang."


    Zhang Shuzhou was standing not too far away. When he saw this scene, he couldn''t help but furrow his brow slightly. Fang Chen had just bought treasures worth two thousand spirit stones just to gift them to other people. He hadn''t seen such generosity before.


    "When did Liu Buyun make friends with such a person? Damn it," Zhang Shuzhou muttered to himself, ring at the two. Before long, he left with his people.


    "Ye Qinghe is an old friend of mine. Since you epted him as a disciple, there should be a thread of fate between us. Cultivation is all about fate, isn''t it? As for these measly low-grade spirit stones, you don''t need to worry too much about them, Senior Brother Liu," Fang Chen said with a light smile.


    Upon hearing that, Liu Buyun couldn''t help but marvel inwardly, ''<i>Measly low-grade spirit stones? The way wealthy people spoke is so in and straightforward....</i>''


    While everyone found this incredible, they all understood why Fang Chen made this gesture. They were probably all benefiting from Ye Qinghe''s fortune.


    Ye Qinghe''s expression wasplex. "Fang Chen is paving the way for me...."


    He never expected that Fang Chen would actively help him one day. Because of what Fang Chen did, he believed that when he returned to the sect this time, his master and senior brothers and sisters would look at him with higher regard.


    Ye Qinghe had been a cultivator for over a decade now, and he understood that even a tidbit of recognition could bring about endless benefits.


    Finally, the servant from the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion asked courteously, "Young Master, would you like anything else?"


    ¡°Get ten Spirit Essence Pills for each of these three disciples of mine as well,¡± Fang Chen said with a faint smile.


    "Alright"


    Little Cow Dung subconsciously lowered his head in disappointment.


    This didn''t escape Fang Chen''s eyes, and he gently patted his head as he chuckled. "You haven''t entered the immortal path yet, so spirit pills are useless to you."


    Little Cow Dung was pleasantly surprised. He had thought that this was a sign that the legendary immortal master would discard him, but it turned out not to be the case. Everything the immortal master did was with purpose.


    Suddenly, Liu Buyun''s eyes lit up. He called another servant and told him that he wanted to buy a low-grade, yellow-rank treasure.


    With a nod, the servant left. Shortlyter, he returned with treasure. It only had eight Soul Imprints. However, nheless, it was a rare defensive treasure. It was almost as valuable as a treasure that had twelve Soul Imprints.


    Liu Buyun handed the treasure to Little Cow Dung and said with a smile, "Kid, you''re lucky that Senior Brother Fang epted you as his disciple. What that person said a while ago was correct; I''m as poor as a pauper, but I''ll gift you this treasure."


    Little Cow Dung dared not ept it until Fang Chen nodded in agreement. With trembling hands, he epted the treasure from Liu Buyun''s hand.


    It was a jade pendant that could be kept close to one at all times.


    Shortly after, the other servant returned with thirty more Spirit Essence Pills. After settling the bill, Fang Chen finally got to the point, "Do you have any high-grade, yellow-rank treasures?"


    The servant was taken aback, and disbelief crossed his eyes. Could this be a powerful Nascent Soul Realm cultivator?


    "They''re gifts," Fang Chen said with a light smile, as if sensing the servant''s thoughts.


    "Sir, I can''t make a decision when ites to a substantial purchase like this. Please wait for a moment," said the servant, his tone bing even more respectful than before.


    The servant left, and before long, a middle-aged man hurried over and bowed to Fang Chen with folded hands. "I am the branch manager. It''s not appropriate to speak here. Would you pleasee inside?"


    Seeing this, Liu Buyun directly said to Fang Chen, "Fellow Cultivator Fang, I''ll take my disciples around. You can go ahead and do your business."


    Due to their giant physiques, Victorious Buddha and the rest also followed Liu Buyun.


    Fang Chen, along with Little Cow Dung, followed the manager to the branch''s VIP room. After taking a seat, an elegant female cultivator brought fruits and snacks.


    Little Cow Dung had never experienced such treatment before, so he was very on edge.


    "How should I address you?" asked Fang Chen with a faint smile.


    "My family name is Wei," responded Manager Wei. He then cut to the chase. "I heard from my subordinates that you want to buy high-grade, yellow-rank treasures, Fellow Cultivator Fang. Is that true?"


    "That is indeed true." Fang Chen nodded with a smile. "I heard that the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion in this region has such treasures up for sale, so I came to take a look. Do you have them?"


    "We do, but they won''te for cheap," Manager Wei smiled wryly, "So...."


    "You don''t need to worry about spirit stones, Manager Wei," Fang Chen said lightly. "Let''s not waste time. Please speak frankly about the quality and price of the treasures."


    "The quality.... You should know that whenever the Azure Cloud Empire produces any slightly better high-grade, yellow-rank treasures, they''re immediately snatched by Nascent Soul Realm cultivators, Fellow Cultivator Fang. That''s why they''re rare in the market. Even if there are any treasures of that grade, they''d usually be damaged."


    Manager Wei tactfully introduced the yellow rank high-grade treasures avable at his ce.


    In the end, there were only two treasures, both with seventy-three Soul Imprints. They were entry-level high-grade, yellow-rank treasures. They were also second-hand, and the Soul Imprints were slightly damaged. The price was not cheap either; one of them cost eight thousand low-grade spirit stones.


    Fang Chen didn''t haggle much and eventually paid fifteen thousand low-grade spirit stones for these two treasures.


    The famished Little Sword was excited to see treasures he could devour after such a long time.


    Mirror of the Universe''s voice echoed, "Oh, Little Brother, don''t forget about me."


    Fang Chen chuckled inwardly. "Don''t worry, today everyone gets to feast."


    After that, Manager Wei personally sent off Fang Chen and Little Cow Dung as they left the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion.


    As Fang Chen left the establishment, he picked up Liu Buyun''s voice ringing. It was filled with anger. "Do you of the Nine Sword Sect have any sense of justice? I am Liu Buyun, a steward of the Qinghua Gate, and these are all my disciples. How could we be involved in theft here!?"


    Fang Chen frowned slightly. He spread his spiritual sense out and immediately saw that Liu Buyun and the others had been surrounded.


    Zhang Shuzhou stood among the crowd. He was looking at the scene with schadenfreude.


    A cultivator with a strong aura spoke coldly to Liu Buyun. "This vendor uses you of stealing a treasure in front of his stall. Whether it''s true or not, we''ll go back to the Nine Sword Sect and find out. As a steward of the Qinghua Gate, you should know the rules of the Nine Sword Sect. We won''t tolerate disrespect."


    The cultivator had a profound aura. He was clearly at the mid stage of the Foundation Building Realm.


    Liu Buyun''s hair was slightly disheveled, indicating that he had been in a fight. He was obviously not a match for the cultivator.


    "Exactly! I saw you steal my treasure with my own eyes, and these three demons aren¡¯t exactly innocent either!" the stall owner grumbled, using Fang Chen¡¯s disciples as well.


    Tiger Mountain Lord roared in anger, and Profound Green was almost half-dead with rage. However, luckily, Victorious Buddha kept hisposure and stopped them. He bowed to the Foundation Building Realm cultivator from the Nine Sword Sect and said, "Senior, can we wait for our master to arrive before settling this matter?"


    The Foundation Building Realm cultivator from the Nine Sword Sect snorted coldly. "Your master? No matter who your master is, as long as you have dirty hands, no one can save you."


    Just as he was about to order his men to take them away, a sword light descended, and in an instant, the stall owner who used everyone was separated into pieces, blood sttering three feet away.


    Everyone was stunned, looking around in disbelief. How could someone dare tomit murder in the Nine Sword Sect''s territory!?


    As the crowd was shocked and confused, Fang Chen walked over with Little Cow Dung, holding a seemingly ordinary sword in his hand.


    The Foundation Building Realm cultivator from the Nine Sword Sect looked at Fang Chen with an angry re. "Were you the one who dared to kill in front of me?"


    Victorious Buddha and the other two demons hurried to Fang Chen''s side. "Master!"


    The Foundation Building Realm cultivator from the Nine Sword Sect was furious. "So, you''re their master. Fine, today you''re going to the Nine Sword Sect with me as well!"


    Liu Buyun stared nkly at the corpse. His eyes drifted to Fang Chen as a strange smile crept on his face. You couldn''t tell whether he was crying or smiling. His face was really unnatural at this moment.


    <i>Who the hell is that guy...? He''s got a screw loose for sure!</i>

 Chapter 471 The Void Immortal Sword Sects Fang Chen

    <h4>Chapter 471 The Void Immortal Sword Sect''s Fang Chen</h4>


    Zhang Shuzhou was first stunned, then couldn''t help butugh wildly in his heart. "Hahaha!"


    No matter what background this kid had, he killed someone in the Nine Sword Sect¡¯s territory! He was finished!


    Even Liu Buyun was going to pay the price. Perhaps, they won''t even be able to leave the Nine Sword Sect''s territory!


    Liu Buyun hurriedly stepped forward to the Nine Sword Sect''s Foundation Building Realm expert, ignoring the fact that his hair was already a mess, trying to exin the situation. "Misunderstanding! This is really a misunderstanding."


    "Fellow Cultivator Liu, this is not a misunderstanding. Someone framed you and me, causing trouble for us. Their intentions are despicable," Fang Chen said lightly, then pointed at Zhang Shuzhou and muttered, "Anyst words?"


    Liu Buyun waspletely stunned, his lips quivering, unable to muster a word.


    Ye Qinghe took a deep breath. They were in the territory of the Nine Sword Sect, which had a Nascent Soul Realm expert at their helm. He didn¡¯t know how Fang Chen could still act so domineering!


    Zhang Shuzhou was taken aback. "Me?"


    A momentter, Zhang Shuzhou smirked, swaggering over to the Nine Sword Sect''s Foundation Building Realm expert.


    "Steward Xu, look at how arrogant this madman is. Liu Buyun was the one who brought him here. I think we¡¯ll have to settle ounts with the Qinghua Gate afterward. We should handle this matter properly to avoid it spreading, lest others say that our Nine Sword Sect has lost all prestige.¡±


    The Foundation Building Realm expert of the Nine Sword Sect was Steward Xu. He was stunned for a moment, then frowned slightly. He knew Zhang Shuzhou''s temperament and vaguely felt that something was amiss.


    However, someone has already died here, a life has been taken. ording to the rules, they had to handle the situation as it was their duty.


    Steward Xu looked at Fang Chen, frowned, and said, "Leaving aside whether the usations made by the stall owner earlier were false, did you really kill someone in public? Come with me to the Nine Sword Sect and exin what happened."


    Liu Buyun clenched his teeth and immediately came forward to use Zhang Shuzhou. "Fellow cultivator, this whole thing was orchestrated by Zhang Shuzhou. He''s a Foundation Building Realm cultivator of the Nine Sword Sect. You don''t n on hiding his atrocities, do you?"


    "Liu Buyun, speak with evidence. What do you mean by orchestrating? As a Foundation Building Realm cultivator and a steward of the Nine Sword Sect, would I bother with such nonsense? Do you all believe him or not?" Zhang Shuzhou sneered, then said lightly, "I''ve already informed the Golden Core Realm elder of the sect.¡±


    The expressions of everyone changed slightly.


    A shadow broke through the air and appeared above them in an instant. It was an elderly man dressed in ck robes, with an indifferent gaze overlooking the crowd.


    Zhang Shuzhou immediately sped his fists in salute. "Elder Zhang, it¡¯s him! He killed someone in our territory without caring about the repercussions!


    Steward Xu and the surrounding Nine Sword Sect cultivators also saluted, addressing him as Elder Zhang.


    The elderly man in ck robes turned his gaze slowly toward Fang Chen, coldly looked him over, and said indifferently, "Take him and those rted to him away."


    Fang Chen smiled. "I don''t have time to entertain these childish tricks of yours. If you don''t handle this matter yourself, I will take action on your behalf."


    Liu Buyun''s gaze stiffened, and his disciples looked at each other.


    Ye Qinghe couldn''t help but transmit his voice. "<i>Fang Chen, that''s a Golden Core elder...."</i>


    Little Cow Dung didn¡¯t know much about the cultivation world, but he felt that his Master was quite domineering.


    As for Victorious Buddha and the others, they remained remarkablyposed. After all, they witnessed what happened to the mighty Kunlong Battle General not too long ago.


    Zhang Shuzhou''s brow furrowed slightly, his eyes showing a hint of doubt. How could this person dare speak in such a manner before a Golden Core Realm cultivator? Was he really that confident in himself?


    "Please show some respect when you speak," said Stweard Xu with a frown.


    The ck-robed elder chuckled with anger. "Childish tricks? Today, let me show you what real strength is!¡±


    As he spoke, a surge of majestic spiritual energy vortexed out from within him. Immediately after, a streak of sword light shed by. The right arm of the ck-robed elder was instantly separated from his body. Another streak of sword light passed, and his left arm followed suit, both arms falling to the ground with a thud. Blood gushed out continuously.


    Everyone was dumbfounded. Some rubbed their eyes unconsciously, confirming that they weren''t seeing things. They looked at Fang Chen in horror. He had severed the arms of a Golden Core Realm cultivator with just two strikes! What kind of technique was that?


    Zhang Shuzhou''s eyes flickered as he subconsciously retreated into the crowd. "This is bad..."


    Liu Buyun stared nkly at Fang Chen. "Fellow Cultivator Fang... didn''t you say you were just at the Foundation Building Realm?"


    "Foundation Building my ass! He¡¯s clearly at the Golden Core Realm!¡±


    "This guy doesn''t even know the cultivation level of someone he''s traveling with?"


    Those standing around secretly cursed in their hearts.


    The ck-robed elder was both astonished and angry, but he didn''t continue. Instead, he quickly took out a Transmission Talisman and incinerated it. Afterward, he seemed to sigh in relief as he began to calm down. He then turned his attention back to Fang Chen.


    "Your methods are indeed extraordinary, no wonder you have the capital to be arrogant, but this is still the territory of the Nine Sword Sect," he said calmly.


    As he spoke, more than ten terrifying and majestic auras surged from the Nine Sword Sect, apanied by a deeply hidden aura. The expressions of the crowd changed rapidly. Those more than ten terrifying auras were clearly Golden Core Realm cultivators, and thest one, most likely, was the Nine Sword Sect''s Grand Elder!


    He was the only Nascent Soul Realm expert in the region!


    Some widened their eyes, trying hard to see the situation over there, but they could only see a dozen figures soaring through the air.


    An ancient voice rang in everyone¡¯s ears, "Who dares to cause trouble in my Nine Sword Sect''s territory?"


    The ck-robed elder who lost both his arms looked at Fang Chen and said with a faint smile, "This is our Nine Sword Sect''s Grand Elder."


    A Nascent Soul cultivator had indeed appeared!


    The expressions of the people in the crowd turned incredulous, and their gazes toward Fang Chen carried a hint of pity.


    "I am Fang Chen from the Void Immortal Sword Sect," Fang Chen said calmly.


    The approaching dozen or so figures all stopped at once, including the person in the lead, who was an old man with white hair and beard. His expression flickered slightly, and he turned to leave without any more words. The other Golden Core Realm experts didn¡¯t say anything either as they followed the old man.


    The world seemed to fall into a dead silence.


    Everyone saw how those experts rushed over aggressively only to turn to leave without another word. Even the Grand Elder was no exception.


    "How could this happen..." Zhang Shuzhou muttered to himself.


    It took Zhang Shuzho a while before he snapped back to reality, his eyes filled with fear. It seemed like he had kicked the ho''s nest today.


    Fang Chen looked at the ck-robed elder. "Your Grand Elder seems to have left?"


    The ck-robed elder''s expression turned horrified, unable to say anything as he stared at Fang Chen.


    What did he just hear? The Void Immortal Sword Sect?


    "The Nine Sword Sect''s reputation seems to have been a little tarnished. Let me clean it up for you. No need to thank me," Fang Chen said as the ck-robed elder remained silent. He raised his hand and shed toward Zhang Shuzhou in the crowd.


    "Grandpa, save me!" Zhang Shuzhou screamed in terror.

 Chapter 472: Void Jade Mountain

    <h4>Chapter 472: Void Jade Mountain</h4>


    Upon hearing Zhang Shuzhou''s scream, everyone realized that the fat man was the grandson of the ck-robed elder. No wonder he was always so arrogant, he had a Golden Core Realm expert for a grandfather.


    <i>Thud!</i>


    Zhang Shuzhou''s scream abruptly ceased, the light in his eyes gradually fading. A bloody line appeared on his forehead, extending downwards.


    In an instant, his corpulent body split into two, spilling his filthy innards all over the ground.


    The surrounding cultivators quickly stepped back, their expressionsplex as they looked at the chaotic scene.


    "Let''s go," Fang Chen called out, and with that, led the group away, breaking through the air.


    From beginning to end, the ck-robed elder did not dare to interfere.


    "Fang Chen of the Void Immortal Sword Sect...."


    "What kind of sect is the Void Immortal Sword Sect? It sounds familiar, and so does this Fang Chen. Where have I heard of him before?"


    "You feel that way too? I was just wondering why that name sounded so familiar."


    "Everyone, do you remember what happened in the Grand Qian Imperial Capital over a decade ago?"


    "That incident... are you referring to the one where a sword cultivator killed countless people and thwarted the Spirit Blood Sect''s n?"


    "Yes, that sword cultivator was named Fang Chen. Have you all forgotten?"


    "<i>Hiss...</i>"


    Everyone suddenly remembered and collectively gasped in shock, their expressions turning uncertain.


    ording to the rumors, that sword cultivator once even wounded a Nascent Soul Realm expert with a single strike!


    Steward Xu was shocked, and a hint of regret shed in his eyes. Fortunately, he hadn''t acted rashly earlier; otherwise, the one lying dead on the ground might have been him.


    Steward Xu looked towards the ck-robed elder. "Elder Zhang, about this matter...."


    The ck-robed elder was silent for a few moments before he said calmly, "You handle this matter, but make sure to retrieve my arms."


    With that, he transformed into a ray of light and flew back to the sect.


    Back in the Nine Sword Sect.


    An elderly man with white hair paced back and forth anxiously. Over a dozen Golden Core Realm cultivators exchanged worried looks. One of them, summoning his courage, tried to console the old man, "Grand Elder, there shouldn''t be too much of a problem, right? We didn''t actually offend that sword cultivator from the Void Immortal Sword Sect. They wouldn''te looking for trouble with us...."


    "You know nothing!" The white-haired elder stopped in his tracks and angrily rebuked, "The sword cultivators of the Void Immortal Sword Sect are all madmen! You are just Golden Core Realm cultivators and you¡¯re as weak as an ant! I am different! If they doe looking for trouble, I''ll be the first to suffer!¡±


    The Golden Core Realm cultivators fell silent, a sense of relief quietly rising within them. Fortunately, their cultivation was too low to attract the enemy''s attention.


    At that moment, one of the Golden Core Realm cultivators looked toward the horizon and eximed, "Old Zhang is back."


    The ck-robed eldernded in front of the group. The white-haired elder, upon seeing him, immediately pped him, sending him rolling several dozen feet away.


    The ck-robed elder didn''t dare to utter a sound. He got up and ran back to the white-haired elder, keeping his head lowered. The surrounding Golden Core Realm cultivators were stunned and frightened; they could tell that their Grand Elder was truly furious.


    "How many people died? Where are they now? Speak!" the white-haired elder roared.


    The ck-robed elder replied softly, "A wandering cultivator and Zhang Shuzhou died. The others have left."


    "Only two deaths? Zhang Shuzhou is your grandson, right? For him to have provoked such a powerful existence, even if he hadn''t killed him, I would''ve personally dealt with him myself." The white-haired elder snorted coldly, a trace of frustration on his face. "It''s fortunate that they didn''t pursue the matter relentlessly. This time, it was a close call. From now on, you all better keep your eyes wide open. If you dare to offend such people again, just slit your own throats in apology!"


    With that, the white-haired elder turned and left, muttering to himself.


    The present Golden Core Realm cultivators sighed lightly, some casting a sympathetic nce at the ck-robed elder before turning and leaving without a word.


    ***


    "Fellow Cultivator Liu, let''s part ways here. Until we meet again."


    Fang Chen cupped his hands towards Liu Buyun, then led his disciples toward Jade Void Mountain.


    Liu Buyun stared nkly at Fang Chen and his group as they departed. After they disappeared from view, he suddenly asked, "Did he just say his name was Fang Chen a while ago? So Fang Wanli was just an alias...."


    "Master, Uncle Fang did indeed refer to himself as Fang Chen. By the way, Master, what kind of sect is the Void Immortal Sword Sect?" a curious disciple asked.


    "It is a sect of sword cultivators located in the distant first-tier Central Continent Empire. Even if I knew the exact route, it is difficult for even someone like me to reach that ce," Liu Buyun murmured.


    Suddenly, Liu Buyun''s expression changed into one of astonishment. "I remember now! I finally recall where I heard the name Fang Chen!"


    "Master... isn''t the sword cultivator who cut down countless foes in the Grand Qian Imperial Capital over a decade ago also named Fang Chen?" another disciple eximed in shock. "Could it be...could it be him?"


    The expressions of the others brightened, their faces shifting from shock to excitement. The idea that such a legendary figure was their martial uncle was almost too incredible to believe!


    They vividly remembered those years when cultivators across the Azure Cloud Empire were talking about this sword cultivator. The rumors said that despite his cultivation level being only at the Qi Refining Realm, he wielded an immortal sword and slew over ten Golden Core Realm cultivators, even injuring a Nascent Soul Realm expert. Together with three Nascent Soul stage cultivators, he forced the Spirit Blood Sect''s mighty figures into a hasty retreat, thereby thwarting the Spirit Blood Sect''s ns and preventing The Hidden Cloud Region from descending into chaos.


    "It really is him.... To think I once thought it was just a coincidence..." Ye Qinghe muttered to himself.


    Suddenly, Ye Qinghe felt the atmosphere around him shift. He looked up to see his master and senior brothers and sisters all staring at him.


    "Junior brother, with such a background, why did you stay silent all this time? If you had spoken up earlier, who in the Qinghua Gate would have dared to provoke our lineage?"


    "Exactly! You kept us in the dark, but this time, it was thanks to you that Uncle Fang gave us such a warm greeting."


    "Qinghe, I always knew you were destined for great things. It seems I was right. Even on the path of cultivation, one must never cken their efforts to maintain such divine connections," Liu Buyun said.


    Liu Biyun sighed with emotion, gently patting Ye Qinghe''s head. "From now on, you''re my closed-door disciple."


    Ye Qinghe never expected that one day he would benefit from Fang Chen''s influence. He felt an infinite sense of emotion welling up inside him.


    "I wonder how Tao Yu is doing now. I bet he''s not as fortunate as me," Ye Qinghe suddenly thought of Tao Yu, feeling secretly pleased with himself.


    ***


    "Master, there''s a strange-shaped mountain ahead, resembling a turtle''s back," Victorious Buddha reported to Fang Chen while gazing into the distance.


    Fang Chen gestured for everyone to stop and then used his spiritual sense to take a look. Indeed, there was a massive mountain range that stretched for an unknown distance, resembling the back of a turtle. The different branches of the mountain range looked like the patterns on a turtle''s shell.


    In the center of this turtle shell, there was a tall mountain shrouded in clouds and mist.


    At the same time, a clear sound rang out, and a giant bird with wings spanning about ten yards came flying through the air, speaking in a human voice, "This is the territory of Jade Void Mountain. Are you passing through oring to pay your respects?"

 Chapter 473: I’m Shameless?

    <h4>Chapter 473: I¡¯m Shameless?</h4>


    Victorious Buddha and the demons sensed a strong pressure emanating from this giant bird, a natural disparity in strength among demonic cultivators.


    The bird''s feathers were a deep blue, shimmering with a metallic sheen akin to bronze. Particrly striking were its ws, as thick and powerful as dragon ws, likely capable of easily shattering ordinary spiritual barriers.


    "Is the Immortal White Tiger here? Tell him that Fang Chen from Grand Qian wishes to meet him," Fang Chen said with a faint smile.


    "You want to meet our ancestor?" The giant bird was slightly surprised. It then showed uncertainty. "Wait here, I''ll go inform him."


    With a light p of its wings, the bird shot toward Jade Void Mountain like lightning. Its flight speed surpassed that of ordinary cultivators using Rainbow Transformation, Cloud Riding, or Sword Flying techniques by a significant margin. However, it was still slower than the Sword Transformation technique used by cultivators of the same level. So far, Fang Chen hadn''t encountered any method that surpassed the speed of Sword Transformation.


    In about ten breaths of time, the giant bird returned. Its attitude had be much more respectful this time. "Pleasee onto my back. Jade Void Mountain is protected, and unregistered demon cultivators and human cultivators cannot easily go inside."


    Fang Chen didn''t hesitate and climbed onto the bird''s back. Victorious Buddha and the others also showed courtesy by bowing. This gesture improved the bird''s perception of them to some extent.


    On the way, Fang Chen chatted with the giant bird and learned that it belonged to the Qing Ghost Eagle lineage. In its early years, it joined Jade Void Mountain and became a guardian disciple of the mountain.


    Jade Void Mountain had a unique ssification system for demonic cultivators. Creatures like the giant bird, belonging to the avian demon lineage, had the opportunity to be guardian disciples. Their treatment was better than that of inner and outer disciples but not as prestigious as the core disciples of Jade Void Mountain. To be a core disciple, one needed an exceptional bloodline foundation. To obtain the position of a core disciple, hard work wasn''t the only factor.


    Fang Chen nced at the trio, silently pondering to himself. "Even the worst among them could be an outer disciple, right? Whatever it is, it''s still better than staying in Grand Xia,"


    After a few moments, the giant bird brought them to the top of Jade Void Mountain, where several figures were already waiting. These individuals didn''t conceal their demon cultivator aura. They were all demons who had taken human forms; however, they still retained some features from their original forms. Their leader had reached the peak of the Golden Core Realm, exuding a powerful aura surpassing that of Qian Wuji from back then.


    He appeared as a refined middle-aged schr but had deep red antlers on his head.


    "Master, the guests have arrived," the giant bird respectfully announced.


    The middle-aged schr smiled faintly and bowed to Fang Chen with sped hands. "I am Lu Changqing, the Master of the Jade Void Sect. Greetings, Daoist Fang."


    The other Golden Core Realm demon cultivators also bowed with sped hands, curiosity flickering in their eyes.


    Once, Daoist Fang was a figure they asionally discussed, never imagining that someone they believed to be long gone would appear before them alive today. It left them feeling quite intrigued.


    "Greetings, fellow cultivators," Fang Chen returned the courtesy and then asked, "Fellow Cultivator Lu, may I know if Immortal White Tiger is avable?"


    Lu Changqing smiled. "Well, Master recently entered seclusion, so it may be a while before he emerges. However, he instructed that if Daoist Fang ever visits, regardless of the request, we will do our best to amodate your request."


    <i>How can Immortal White Tiger, who once said I was dead, issue such instructions to you? </i>


    Fang Chen''s expression shifted, and his spiritual sense instantly caught a suspicious figure in the distance.


    Realizing what was happening, he didn''t expose the person and returned to his body, smiling at Lu Changqing. "In that case, I won''t be shy. These three are disciples I epted earlier. However, being a human cultivator, my understanding of demon cultivation is limited. Their future with me may be bleak. Would your sect be willing to ept them for cultivation here?" Fang Chen asked.


    The Victorious Buddha trio hesitated to speak, but since that was Fang Chen''s arrangement, they remained silent.


    "Is that all?" Lu Changqing was momentarily surprised, then quickly understood and smiled. "Such a trivial matter is nothing to fuss about. These three will be inner disciples of our Jade Void Sect from now on."


    The other Golden Core demon cultivators also smiled kindly.


    The fact that he, as a human cultivator, not only epted three demon cultivators but also willingly took them on a long journey, showed that he harbored no prejudice against demon cultivators and even disyed a friendly attitude toward them.


    ¡°Listen carefully, the three of you. In the future, while at Jade Void Sect, if you encounter anything you don''t understand, seek guidance from Fellow Cultivator Lu. Practice diligently, and remember not to cause unnecessary trouble,¡± Fang Chen addressed the three demons.


    The three immediately bowed. ¡°We will follow your orders,¡±


    ¡°Everyone, I have other matters to attend to, so I won''t linger here. Please take care of them in my absence. If I have time, I will visit Immortal White Tiger again,¡± Fang Chen respectfully bid farewell to Lu Changqing and others before leaving on his sword. He disappeared into the sky in an instant.


    ¡°Is that the Sword Transformation technique of sword cultivators? It''s truly fast...¡± Lu Changqing couldn''t help but marvel at the sight.


    He then turned to Victorious Buddha and the other two and smiled. ¡°From now on, we are fellow disciples. In the Jade Void Sect, there''s no need to be too formal. We demon cultivators don''t pay much attention to hierarchy. If other demon cultivators provoke you and you can''t handle it,e to me.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, seniors,¡± the three quickly expressed their gratitude.


    Lu Changqing arranged for a Golden Core demon cultivator to guide them for registration, while he respectfully went to find Immortal White Tiger, who was at another location in Jade Void Mountain. ¡°Master, everything has been arranged properly. He didn''t ask for anything too difficult.¡±


    ¡°I never expected that he woulde find me just for his disciples? And he even epts demon cultivators as disciples? Quite interesting...¡± Immortal White Tiger muttered to himself.


    Lu Changqing looked puzzled for a moment. He hesitated momentarily and then asked, "Master, why didn''t you meet him? He''s a sword cultivator, and his skills back then were so amazing. It wouldn''t be an embarrassment for you to meet him...."


    "What''s the point of meeting him? What would I say after meeting him? That I owe him a favor? Am I a shameless fool?" Immortal White Tiger muttered. "Take good care of his disciples; teach them the best demon cultivation techniques we have. Every year, bring them to see me, and I''ll personally instruct them for a day."


    Lu Changqing sighed inwardly. "Not even we have received such treatment before...."


    He, however, understood that this was Immortal White Tiger''s way of repaying a favor. If it weren''t for that sword cultivator who eliminated the troubles in the past, even with the help of the Nascent Soul Realm expertster, the three of them would have beenpletely assimted by the Kunlong War General. By that time, the Purple Pole Dao Academy, the Chenxiang Temple, and Jade Void Mountain would have suffered heavy losses. If it were to get entangled in chaos again, there might even be a risk of extermination for the sects.


    So, while this favor seemed small, it was actually very difficult to repay fully.


    After hearing Immortal White Tiger''s arrangements for Victorious Buddha, Profound Green, and Tiger Mountain Lord, Fang Chen nodded lightly and withdrew his divine soul.

 Chapter 474: Three-Year Agreement

    <h4>Chapter 474: Three-Year Agreement</h4>


    Fang Chen stood in the void, quietly gazing at the imperial capital of the Azure Cloud Empire in front of him. "Grand Qian''s capital really is iparable to the imperial capital of the Azure Cloud Empire. I reckon this formation can suppress even Nascent Soul Realm cultivators."


    After activating the Primordial Immortal Eye, he could clearly see terrifying lines of qi intertwining and shrouding the entire imperial capital.


    It was a formation, and it was more powerful than any formation he knew of. There was a prominent immortal mountain in the imperial capital, which was the home of the Purple Pole Dao Academy. Fang Chen also wanted to visit Immortal Void Rush to learn more about the Killing Spiritual Division while on the way. The Killing Spiritual Division shared the same goal as him, which was to eradicate the Blood Spirit Sect, making them allies.


    Fang Chen looked at Little Cow Dung and smiled. "Little Cow Dung, how''s your recentprehension of the Purple Qi Manual? Have you grasped its essence?"


    Little Cow Dung''s tanned face blushed slightly as he confessed, "Master, I... still don''t quite understand...."


    "That''s normal. Cultivation isn''t just about rote learning. Not to mention that your four-chimes talent isn''t considered anything superior here. But still, in the more remote areas, it''s still considered eptable." Fang Chen chuckled. "Those cultivators can also also make something of themselves. As for your future achievements, they wille naturally. But I haven''t asked you yet, what is your goal in cultivation?"


    Little Cow Dung''s eyes revealed a hint of confusion. "Goal.... does finding my mother count...?"


    Fang Chen was slightly taken aback. "Didn''t they say your parents are both deceased?"


    Little Cow Dung quickly shook his head. "My mother isn''t dead. It''s just that when we were fleeing the disaster, someone killed my father. In order to save my life, my mother took my sister and left with that person. If I be a cultivator, I should be able to find my mother."


    "Where was your mother taken?" Fang Chen asked.


    Little Cow Dung shook his head lightly. "I don''t remember...."


    Fang Chen sighed inwardly. How vast was the Azure Cloud Empire? Finding a person in such a ce was akin to searching for a needle in a haystack.


    "Practice well, and you will find your mother in the future," Fang Chen said with a smile as he patted Little Cow Dung''s head, and then led him into the imperial capital of the Azure Cloud Empire.


    Little Cow Dung was still a child at heart. Despite experiencing many things and being very mature for his age, he couldn''t help but immerse himself subconsciously in the various things he saw in the imperial capital.


    "Quick, go take a look! Fang Jue from the Purple Pole Dao Academy is going to have a duel with the Chief Disciple of the Yellow Gate of the Profound Yellow Pce!"


    "Huh? Who is Fang Jue? Why is he going to duel with the Chief Disciple of the Yellow Gate of the Profound Yellow Pce? Although the Profound Yellow Pce is not as good as the Purple Pole Dao Academy, the strength of the Chief Disciple... can''t bepared to ordinary disciples of the Purple Pole Dao Academy, right?"


    "You haven''t heard of Fang Jue? You must remember the Fang Family from Grand Qian, right?"


    "Oh! Isn''t that the family behind Fang Chen, who fought like a battle god and helped three Nascent Soul Realm experts, saving the Hidden Cloud Region?"


    "Yes, Fang Juees from the same ce!"


    "Then we must watch this. Fang Jue is probably not simple!"


    Hearing the gossip around, Fang Chen muttered, "Fang Jue is dueling with someone? With his temperament... Unless provoked, he wouldn''t openly challenge someone to a duel, right?"


    A faint smile appeared on Fang Chen''s face as he led Little Cow Dung towards the bustling crowd.


    There was a naturalke located in the most bustling area of the capital city. Around theke, various cultivators have gathered, and there are also many ordinary people taking advantage of the situation to sell fruits and make a living.


    In the sky above theke, two figures stood. One of them was the long-unseen Fang Jue. He looked more maturepared to his days in Grand Qian, and his cultivation had be much stronger since reaching the Foundation Building Realm. It was evident his foundation was solid.


    Facing Fang Jue was a young man in white clothes. He had a cold, stern expression on his face. His aura was no weaker than Fang Jue''s.


    "The three-year agreement.... I thought you wouldn''te today," the young man in white said indifferently, seemingly unconcerned about the onlookers around them.


    Fang Jue spoke in a deep voice. "If I agreed to this battle, naturally there is no reason not toe. Are we fighting to the death or is it a spar to test our skills?"


    "To live or die in this battle, it all depends on fate," the young man in white replied with a faint smile.


    The crowd was shocked. It was obvious that this was not an ordinary fight; it was a fight to the death! Perhaps one of them would fall today!


    "Brother, are cultivators allowed to fight openly in the capital city?" Fang Chen asked a young man casually.


    The young man nced at Fang Chen and noticed that he was apanied by a child without a cultivation foundation. The young man was reluctant to speak with Fang Chen, but he still politely replied, "They agreed to this battle three years ago, and the Purple Pole Daoist Academy, Profound Yellow Pce, and the Azure Cloud Empire Royal Family all approved it. So this fight won''t vite the rules."


    ¡°So... These two have some deep-seated grievances, enough to fight to the death here?¡± asked Fang Chen again.


    ¡°You''re not from the capital, are you? Three years ago, the Chief Disciple of the Yellow Gate of the Profound Yellow Pce, Mu Zhaohe, mentioned Fang Chen, the sword cultivator of Grand Qian''s Fang Family, in private conversations. His words seemed somewhat inappropriate.


    "Coincidentally, someone informed Fang Jue about it, and Fang Jue came to question him about it. However, Mu Zhaohe made a move and injured Fang Jue. At that time, Fang Jue was not yet at the Foundation Building Realm, so that''s when their enmity began,¡± the person replied impatiently.


    Fang Chen was slightly surprised, and he scrunched up his brows at the revtion that Fang Jue and Mu Zhaohe''s conflict stemmed from him.


    Just then, a familiar voice rang out, ¡°Fang Jue, let me take care of this guy. He hasn''t even experienced that incident, so what qualifications does he have to criticize Brother Fang Chen?!¡±


    Fang Chen''s gaze shifted to the source of the voice and saw Dongfang Haojie, the fat guy, standing in the crowd waving his plump palms. Next to him stood Fairy Tianyin, her gaze toward Mu Zhaohe also filled with coldness.


    Mu Zhaohe nced at Dongfang Haojie, a faint hint of disdain in his eyes. He smirked. ¡°Although I haven''t experienced that incident, I refuse to believe that the situation the Hidden Cloud Region faced would be resolved by a Qi Refining Realm cultivator. If it weren''t for the three Nascent Soul seniors present, I''m afraid we wouldn''t have been able to stay here. Heh, why are you always mentioning a mere ant like him? Have you ever considered why Hidden Cloud Domain is still peaceful to this very day?¡±


    ¡°What the Chief Disciple of the Yellow Gate says makes sense.¡±


    ¡°Maybe that incident was exaggerated. I mean, how could a Qi Refining Realm disciple injure a Nascent Soul Realm expert?¡±


    The crowd murmured among themselves.


    Fang Jue''s eyes shed with anger at Mu Zhaohe''s mocking remarks. He spoke in a deep voice. "Fang Chen sacrificed his life for us, and you think you can just gloss over it with a few words? You are even more despicable than the Spirit Blood Sect cultivators!"


    "Heh, do you hate me? Then make your move, don''t waste my time with your useless words. I''m curious to see what a mere early-stage Foundation Building Realm cultivator can do to defeat me, a mid-stage Foundation Building Realm expert," Mu Zhaohe said with a provocative smile.

 Chapter 475: Admitting Defeat

    <h4>Chapter 475: Admitting Defeat</h4>


    The battle between Fang Jue and Mu Zhaohe began without warning. Fang Jue utilized water element maniption to directly summon several water dragons hundreds of feet long from theke, biting toward Mu Zhaohe. However, Mu Zhaohe simply chuckled lightly and conjured a lotus flower of mes under his feet, instantly turning the water dragons into steam.


    In an instant, thick steam filled the surroundings, creating an otherworldly scene that made it hard to see the twobatants clearly. At the same time, their flying swords converged in mid-air, engaging in a fierce battle as they both tried to find a breakthrough using various elemental maniption techniques.


    Fang Chen activated the Primordial Immortal Eye and quietly observed the confrontation. Mu Zhaohe, being in the mid-stage of the Foundation Building Realm, possessed much stronger spiritual energy than Fang Jue. His responses seemed effortless and gracefulpared to Fang Jue, who, despite being in the Foundation Building Realm, clearlygged behind in cultivation. Just a dozen or so exchanges had already left him somewhat strained.


    Whether it was the maniption of elements or the control of flying swords, it required immense spiritual energy. Even if Mu Zhaohe maintained his current state, it would only take the time it took to drink a cup of tea to deplete Fang Jue''s spiritual energy. Moreover, Mu Zhaohe had no intention of doing so.


    "The heavens and earth are vast. Profound Yellow is everywhere!" Mu Zhaohe lightly shouted, and the surrounding power of metal crazily condensed, transforming into a giant bell and cauldron, smashing down from above.


    Fang Jue attempted to block using elemental forces, but he couldn''t stop this attack at all, causing his external spiritual energy barrier to shatter.


    <i>Boom!</i>


    Everyone heard a loud bang, and Fang Jue was sent tumbling through the air.


    The flying sword, unmanned and uncontrolled, also fell into theke. With this, the victor of the battle had been decided.


    "The Heaven and Earth Profound Yellow Bell is a specialized technique of the Profound Yellow Pce, capable of both offense and defense. The power of metal condensed by this technique far surpasses ordinary elemental maniption!"


    "It seems Fang Jue has lost. It''s true that the ordinary disciples of the Purple Pole Dao Academy can''tpare to the Chief Disciple of the Yellow Gate. I''ve heard that the Chief Disciple of the Profound Gate is even stronger, but he has been in seclusion for the past few years and hasn''t appeared."


    Whispers and murmurs echoed through the air.


    This was the first time Little Cow Dung had seen such an exciting battle among cultivators, and he waspletely amazed. Previously, in the Nine Sword Sect''s territory, Fang Chen''s methods were too mysterious for him toprehend. Now, witnessing the hundred-foot water dragons and the giant Heaven and Earth Profound Yellow Bell, it felt like a whole new world was opening up to this child who had never been exposed to such things.


    "Master, did that immortal lose?" Little Cow Dung asked quietly.


    Fang Chen smiled lightly. "Not yet."


    <i>He hasn''t lost yet?</i>


    Little Cow Dung nodded, believing in his master''s words.


    However, some people nearbyughed, especially the young man who had just answered Fang Chen''s questions. He turned to look at Fang Chen and said, "With such injuries, you still say he hasn''t lost?"


    Fang Chen smiled without replying. Through the Primordial Immortal Eye, he could see that although Fang Jue was injured, there was a special energy circting within him. This power was very simr to what was once seen in Sui Nianhua''s body, and recalling that the Illusionary Pce Master of the Purple Pole Dao Academy was extremely skilled in illusion techniques, it wouldn''t be surprising if Fang Jue also practiced this art.


    This kind of technique was simr to alchemy, artifact refining, and even sword cultivation methods. They all belong to rtively rare techniques. There were no rted inheritances in ordinary sects.


    "Fang Jue, is this all the ability you have? With this level of cultivation, why should you stand up for your family''s Fang Chen?" Mu Zhaohe said with a smirk. "That''s right, you owe him a favor. I heard from Young Lady Sui that you were able to join the Purple Pole Dao Academy because he gave you a token."


    "Sui Nianhua?" Fang Chen pondered. That woman should now also be under the tutge of the Illusory Pce Master at the Purple Pole Dao Academy. Jiang Shun mentioned this point in the past at the Fang n.


    "Unfortunately, you are too ipetent. Since today''s match is said to be decided by fate, I''ll send you on your way."


    After Mu Zhaohe finished speaking, he controlled his flying sword and shed into the void. After the sh, a self-satisfied smile appeared on his face.


    However, in reality, there was still a distance of dozens of feet between Fang Jue and him. The crowd was stunned.


    Mu Zhaoheughed at the air. "Don''t look at me with such unwilling eyes. You were the one who proposed the three-year agreement. You''re the one who did this."


    The expressions of the crowd became increasingly strange, and someone whispered, "Could it be an illusion technique?"


    Dongfang Haojie suppressed a smile, while Tianyin Fairy also showed a faint smile, silently watching Mu Zhaohe''s solo performance.


    Mu Zhaohe looked at everyone and smiled lightly. "Everyone, today''s match ends here. Let''s leave."


    Dongfang Haojie sighed softly and pointed out, "Take a look behind you."


    <i>Huh? </i>


    Mu Zhaohe furrowed his brow slightly. Just as he turned around, he saw Fang Jue holding a sword to his throat.


    Mu Zhaohe was beyond shocked. "Impossible!"


    He had clearly beheaded his opponent. How could he still be alive?


    <i>Wait a minute! Is this an illusion technique?</i>


    At this realization, Mu Zhaohe''s face turned extremely ugly, as if he had eaten dog shit. He had been yed with by the opponent''s illusion technique in front of so many people, and now the opponent was even close to him!


    Mu Zhaohe nced at the flying sword near his neck. With just a slight movement from the opponent, his head would fall to the ground!


    Mu Zhaohe''s expression became extremely grim. "Damn it!"


    Fang Jue looked at Mu Zhaohe indifferently. "Do you surrender?"


    Mu Zhaohe''s expression changed several times. After a dozen breaths, he said coldly, "Fine, I surrender."


    Fang Jue smiled. "Back then, Fang Chen used this trick to effortlessly defeat the mid-stage Foundation Building Realm cultivator. I just learned a little from him. If you can''t even handle this little trick of mine, what qualifications do you have to gossip behind people''s backs?"


    He put away his flying sword and disappeared into the void toward Dongfang Haojie''s direction.


    Just then, everyone''s pupils slightly constricted.


    Dongfang Haojie cursed loudly, "Be careful, this bastard is attacking you. He''s shameless!"


    <i>Pfft!</i>


    A flying sword pierced through Fang Jue''s heart.


    Mu Zhaohe, still not satisfied, crazily used his flying sword to cut Fang Jue''s corpse into pieces. At this moment, he looked mad, his eyes covered in ayer of blood mist, clearly consumed by rage.


    "What are you randomly shing in the air for?" Fang Jue''s cold voice rang out again.


    Mu Zhaohe suddenly froze, his eyes regaining sanity. He suddenly realized that he was still in the same spot, with Fang Jue''s sword still at his neck.


    Strange gazes filled with pity and mockery fell upon Mu Zhaohe. Hisplexion turned incredibly pale.


    "I''ll ask you again, do you surrender?" Fang Jue said indifferently.


    "He surrenders," said a new voice.


    Before Mu Zhaohe could speak, a young man dressed in ck robes arrived through space.


    His ck hair flowed like a waterfall, like satin, cascading over his shoulders.


    His handsome appearance was unlike that of an ordinary person. There was a hint of divine light in his eyes when they opened and closed, but what caught the most attention was his pupils, which were a strange deep blue.


    The crowd''s eyes slightly widened in shock. "Could this be... the Chief Disciple of the Profound Gate of the Profound Yellow Pce?"


    Fang Chen''s gaze flickered. "These pupils.... He must have cultivated a simr eye technique to the Primordial Immortal Eye. Does he also have an Innate Heart Pupil?"

 Chapter 476: Stop Yelling, I’m Here

    <h4>Chapter 476: Stop Yelling, I¡¯m Here</h4>


    The handsome cultivator who had just appeared had deep blue eyes, giving off a strange feeling.


    Fang Chen noticed that although the opponent''s cultivation level was in thete-stage Foundation Building Realm, his spiritual energy was extremely majestic, far stronger than others at the same level.


    When Mu Zhaohe saw the neer, his expression turned even uglier, and he lowered his head. "Brother Yun...."


    "Stop embarrassing yourself," said the handsome man, snorting. "The Profound Yellow Pce cannotpare to the Purple Pole Dao Academy in terms of heritage. Since you didn''t exert your full strength right from the start, you ended up losing. This is only natural."


    "Brother Yun, I was careless. If I had used my full strength right from the get-go, I might not have fallen for his illusion technique," Mu Zhaohe said quietly.


    Yun Tiancheng ignored Mu Zhaohe and looked at Fang Jue. "Are you a disciple of the Illusion Pce?"


    "Are you Yun Tiancheng, the Chief Disciple of the Profound Gate?" Fang Jue countered without answering directly.


    Yun Tiancheng nodded lightly. "Mu Zhaohe lost to you because of his inferior skills. Can you show me some of the high-level techniques of the Purple Pole Dao Academy? I''ve heard that your illusion techniques surpass those of the Hidden Cloud Region. I''ve been in seclusion for these years and haven''t ventured into the world. Today, I''d like to take this opportunity to learn from you."


    Fang Jue shook his head lightly. "Your cultivation level is far higher than mine."


    He wasn''t stupid.


    "Rest assured, I will suppress my cultivation level by about ny percent. Treat me as if I were in the early-stage Foundation Building Realm," Yun Tiancheng said with a faint smile, and his aura began to decrease rapidly, soon bing simr to Fang Jue''s.


    The crowd''s expressions were odd. Dongfang Haojie and Fairy Tianyin exchanged a nce. If Yun Tiancheng was suppressing his cultivation by ny percent, then his current cultivation should be even lower than Mu Zhaohe''s, so why was he so confident? Was it just because he was the Chief Disciple of the Profound Gate?


    "By the way, if you defeat me, I will instruct the disciples of the Profound Yellow Pce not to speak lightly of the Fang Family in the future," said Yun Tiancheng.


    Fang Jue had been somewhat hesitant to ept to challenge, but when he heard that, he immediately nodded in agreement.


    Yun Tiancheng nced at Mu Zhaohe. "You stand aside."


    "Yes..." responded Mu Zhaohe.


    He lowered his head and flew to the side.


    At the same time, the spiritual energy within Fang Jue surged again, trying to drag Yun Tiancheng into the illusion.


    The eerie blue eyes of Yun Tiancheng seemed to sh a faint cold light, isting the power of illusion outside his body.


    Fang Jue was shocked. "How is this possible...!"


    The next moment, a giant golden armored figure suddenly stood up from theke, and its huge palm grabbed Fang Jue.


    This golden armored figure was at least a hundred feet tall, and the water in theke only reached its knees.


    After being grabbed by it, Fang Jue found that no matter how he activated his spiritual energy, he couldn''t escape from it.


    Fang Jue couldn''t believe what had happened. "I... lost?"


    "<i>Hiss...</i>"


    The spectators all took a cold breath. A hundred-foot water dragon and a hundred-foot golden armored giant werepletely different levels of existence!


    That is the power of metal, the strongest offensive force among the five elements, and also the most difficult to control. Those who can condense a hundred-foot golden armored giant were all Golden Core Realm cultivators, but Yun Tiancheng was easily controlling such majestic power!


    Dongfang Haojue was stunned too. "This guy didn''t go back on his word, right?"


    Fairy Tianyin''s expression became solemn and she muttered, "His aura is indeed only at the level of an ordinary early-stage Foundation Building cultivator. He hasn''t used any additional spiritual energy."


    Dongfang Haojie was somewhat incredulous. "Is he actually just a monster?! He can actually mobilize such majestic power of metal at the early-stage of Foundation Building Realm?!"


    Watching this unfold, Fang Chen figured out why Yun Tiancheng could control the metal element so well; it was rted to the eye techniques he possessed.


    <i>In this world, eye techniques may be even rarer than the inheritance of sword cultivation. There must be other fortuitous encounters out there, </i>thought Fang Chen.


    It was simr to his encounter with that mysterious fairy. If she hadn''t given him the method to cultivate the Primordial Immortal Eye, he would have never known that such miraculous techniques existed in the world.


    At this moment, Mirror of the Universe spoke. "Brother, this person''s eye technique has quite a background, it''s called the Radiant Divine Eyes. When this eye is opened, controlling the power of the five elements is as easy as breathing. In ancient times, there was a prominent cultivation n that had this technique passed down the generations. Every generation of cultivators who practiced this technique became top experts in the world."


    Hearing that, Little Sword said, "Little Chen, seize it."


    "No need for that. His Primordial Immortal Eye inheritance is not inferior to the Radiant Divine Eyes. Thetter is for offensive purposes, but it consumes soul power when used. The former, however, is an excellent method for nurturing soul power," Mirror of the Universe remarked.


    Fang Chen silently nodded in agreement. He had noticed too that when he cultivated the Primordial Immortal Eye, his soul slowly became stronger.


    "Looks like you''ve lost, Fellow Cultivator Fang, " said Yun Tiancheng as he looked at Fang Jue, a faint smile ying on his lips. "From now on, it has nothing to do with you what the disciples of Profound Yellow Pce say, understood?"


    Fang Jue''s expression turned sour, but he didn''t respond to Yun Tiancheng.


    Seeing this, Yun Tiancheng''s thoughts flickered, and the giant golden figure slowly clenched its fist.


    The onlookers seemed to hear the sound of bones cracking.


    Upon seeing this, Dongfang Haojie immediately cursed, "Fang Jue has already defeated Mu Zhaohe. Are you nning to y tricks on us? If Fang Chen were here, he would have cut down this old schemer with one sword!"


    Yun Tiancheng frowned slightly and looked calmly at Dongfang Haojie. "Do you know the consequences of having a loose tongue?"


    Mu Zhaohe, who was initially gloating, sneered, "If Fang Chen were here, Senior Yun would teach him a lesson. It''s a pity he''s dead. You all keep saying his sword can y Golden Core Realm experts, but I believe Senior Yun can crush him with just one finger."


    With that, Mu Zhaohe looked at the crowd and chuckled, "You keep mentioning Fang Chen, one after another. Do you darepare him with Senior Yun, I wonder if any of you have seen it with your own eyes?"


    "Heh, all of you are just following hearsay.¡±


    Suddenly, everyone understood why Mu Zhaohe shed with Fang Jue.


    Indeed, some cultivators unconsciouslypared the talents of the Azure Cloud Empire with Fang Chen. Without exception, those geniuses were immediately put down. In addition, they had heard that Fang Chen was a descendant of Fang Tingyuan. Hundreds of years ago, Fang Tingyuan''s presence in the Azure Cloud Empire also caused many geniuses to bow their heads. Those geniuses who were still alive today were almost all in the Nascent Soul Realm.


    "I remember now! Fang Tingyuan once yed a Mu Family genius who was from the Profound Yellow Pce!"


    "I thought it was just a rumor, but now it seems... it''s probably true. They have a longstanding feud...."


    The crowd''s expressions became increasingly strange.


    Mu Zhaohe chuckled coldly and then looked around mockingly. "Is Fang Chen here? Is he around? Where''s Fang Chen?"


    Dongfang Haojie and others'' faces turned extremely unpleasant.


    Fang Jue''s eyes widened as he stared at Mu Zhaohe. If he had known, he wouldn''t have been so merciful just now!


    "It seems..." Mu Zhaohe chuckled lightly, " that Fang Chen is truly dead; otherwise, he would have appeared today to prove all the rumors you''ve spread over the years."


    With that, he continued calling for Fang Chen.


    "Stop yelling, I''m here."

 Chapter 477: Are You Done Touching Me?

    <h4>Chapter 477: Are You Done Touching Me?</h4>


    Mu Zhaohe''s voice abruptly stopped, a hint of anger shing in his eyes. Who dared to tease him at this moment? The previously noisy environment quieted down as everyone looked around, trying to find the person who spoke just now.


    Dongfang Haojie subconsciously looked towards Fairy Tianyin. "This voice... something''s not right...."


    She, too, seemed startled. That voice sounded very familiar. But how could that be the case? The person to whom that voice belonged wasn''t around anymore; he was dead beyond a shadow of doubt.


    The young man closest to Fang Chen eximed in shock, cursing and stepping back. "Brother, stop messing around at a time like this! What if you drag us down with you?!"


    In an instant, the area around Fang Chen was cleared out, creating an empty space where he was the only person standing and making him stand out.


    Mu Zhaohe''s gaze locked onto Fang Chen, his voice turning cold. "You responded when I called out?"


    Fang Chen smiled. "You called my name; I answered. What''s wrong with that?"


    Mu Zhaohe''s eyes shed with coldness. "I called for Fang Chen, from Grand Qian. What''s your business with him?"


    The next second, everyone heard a cry of shock as Dongfang Haojie rushed over to Fang Chen at incredible speed. He looked at Fang Chen as if he was seeing a ghost and he stared at him from top to bottom.


    Dongfang Haojie''s eyes were filled with shock, subconsciously reaching out to touch Fang Chen, feeling him all over. "Fang Chen, you really didn''t die!? Are you a ghost now...?"


    Fairy Tianyin also approached, staring at Fang Chen intently while trying hard to think of the possibilities.


    <i>It really seems to be him, and he looks exactly the same as before! How is that possible?! </i>


    A trace of horror appeared in Fairy Tianyin''s eyes.


    Fang Chen had clearly passed away, so why was he standing infront of them alive and well?


    Fang Jue, who was on the verge of passing out due to the pain from his shattered bones, struggled to open his eyes and looked toward Fang Chen.


    It was like a bucket of cold water had been poured over his head, instantly making him more alert!


    Seeing Dongfang Haojie''s hand about to reach down again, Fang Chen furrowed his brows slightly. "Have you touched enough?"


    Dongfang Haojie withdrew his hand with an embarrassed smile. "Ah... It really seems like he''s still alive...."


    Don''t be fooled by Dongfang Haojie yful demeanor. He was just as shocked as Fairy Tianyin.


    When the crowd saw the expressions of Dongfang Haojie and Fairy Tianyin, they became perplexed. "Could he really be Fang Chen?"


    They knew that these two had been in Grand Qian before and had firsthand experience of those events.


    "If he''s really Fang Chen... then these two from the Profound Yellow Pce are in trouble..." someone muttered to themselves.


    ording to rumors, Fang Chen could easily y Golden Core Realm experts. No matter how strong Yun Tiancheng was, he couldn''t possibly be more powerful than a Golden Core Realm cultivator, right?


    Moreover, rumors said that Fang Chen even struck a critical blow, injuring amander-level expert from the Spirit Blood Sect.


    That was someone in the Nascent Soul Realm!


    A strike capable of injuring someone at the Nascent Soul Realm! How terrifying was that?!


    Mu Zhaohe''s brows furrowed slightly. "Are you trying to deceive us? Bringing in a fraudster just to deceive me and Senior Brother Yun?"


    Yun Tiancheng appeared to be thoughtful as he looked at Fang Chen, showing no change in expression.


    Fang Chen handed Little Cow Dung to Dongfang Haojie, then looked at Yun Tiancheng and said, "Fang Jue is no match for you. You can seize your hand now."


    Yun Tiancheng chuckled lightly. He nced at Fang Jue and said casually, "He hasn''t answered my question yet."


    "<i>Hehehehe. Hahahahaha!</i>"


    Fang Jue first let out a lightugh, then burst into madughter, echoing around due to the surge of spiritual energy.


    Everyone was stunned. He could stillugh so heartily while his life and death was in someone else''s hands?


    "What are youughing at?" Yun Tiancheng asked calmly.


    Fang Jue''sughing gradually died down, and he looked at Yun Tiancheng with a smile. "I''mughing at you. You¡¯re staring death right in the face and you don¡¯t even know it."


    "Senior Brother Yun, kill him. Since these people want to deceive us, let''s y along with them!" said Mu Zhaohe, furious.


    He then rushed toward Fang Chen, with spiritual energy surging around him. He used one technique after the other; Fire Ball, Ice Arrow, flying sword. He hurled everything he knew at Fang Chen like a madman gone berserk.


    When the crowd saw Mu Zhaohe go mad, they were surprised.


    Illusionary techniques?!


    This scene was identical to what happened with Fang Jue just a while ago!


    The crowd thought back to what Fang Jue had said earlier about him learning these illusion techniques from Fang Chen, and they couldn''t help but suddenly believe that this person was really Fang Chen! The sword cultivator who was rumored to have been dead!


    Everyone''s expressions became solemn the next moment. After all, Fang Chen was a sword cultivator! Just that identity alone made him extraordinary within the Azure Cloud Empire!


    Fang Chen slowly walked behind Mu Zhaohe, lightly pressing the sword against his neck as he looked at Yun Tiancheng. "If you kill Fang Jue, I will kill him."


    Yun Tiancheng furrowed his brows slightly, gazing at Fang Chen for a few moments before suddenly pulling back. The golden-armored giant disappeared, and Fang Jue instantly broke free from his confinement. Fairy Tianyin reacted promptly and appeared in the air, catching Fang Jue as he fell.


    "If I''m not mistaken, you just used the Illusion Spirit Talisman, right?" Yun Tiancheng said calmly. "I have released Fang Jue. You can also put away your sword now."


    Fang Chen smiled, sheathing his small sword and dispelling the aftereffects of the Illusion Spirit Talisman. Mu Zhaohe''s eyes were somewhat zed. He nced around at the strange gazes from the surroundings, suddenlying back to his senses, and his face turned pale.


    <i>Another illusion!</i>


    <i>He fell for another illusion!</i>


    "Damn it!"


    Mu Zhaohe scanned around, trying to find Fang Chen, unaware that Fang Chen was standing right behind him.


    Yun Tiancheng''s eyes shed with a hint of coldness. "Junior Brother Mu, don''t embarrass the position of the Chief Disciple of the Yellow Gate. Step aside."


    "Senior Brother, I..." replied Mu Zhaohe, as he turned his back to respond. However, before he could see his senior brother, he caught sigh of Fang Chen, who was behind him, and was startled, his face instantly turning extremely pale.


    He finally realized that when he fell for the illusion, Fang Chen could''ve taken his life at any time....


    After Mu Zhaohe left, Yun Tiancheng looked at Fang Chen calmly. "Are you really the Fang Chen, the famous sword cultivator from the Grand Qian?"


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "Seems like it."


    Fang Chen''s confirmation immediately caused a stir, and the nearby crowd of cultivators were shocked.


    That sword cultivator hade back to life? Or perhaps he never died in the first ce? Could it have all been rumors?


    Yun Tiancheng suddenlyughed, his voice echoing across the entireke, "It appears that everything indeed was just a hoax. Junior Brother Mu''s words were not wrong. Everyone was just spreading rumors about. If everything were true, you would have been dead long ago and wouldn''t be standing here."


    Mu Zhaohe immediately chimed in. "Everyone, did you see that? This is the Fang Chen they speak of, who supposedly sacrificed himself. Look at him now, does he look like someone who died?"


    The onlookers expressions turned odd, already starting to believe a little.


    "Indeed, most rumors are not true. How can a Qi Refining Realm cultivator be strong enough to injure an expert in the Nascent Soul Realm? It''s simply absurd..."


    Simr words kept echoing through the air.


    Yun Tiancheng, witnessing this, smiled faintly. "However, I am still fortunate to be able to meet the legendary Grand Qian sword cultivator. Perhaps we can have a friendly exchange, a little spar between us."


    As he spoke, his deep blue eyes shimmered with a strange light. With his Radiant Divine Eyes, he had no fear of sword cultivators. His inheritance was even rarer and more precious than the sword cultivator lineage!

 Chapter 478: Talk Shit Get Hit

    <h4>Chapter 478: Talk Shit Get Hit</h4>


    Dongfang Haojie''s expression was strange as he looked at Fairy Tianyin. ¡°Is this guy... challenging Brother Fang Chen to a duel?¡±


    "<i>Should we inform Fang Chen? It would be best if he could go easy on him. That senior from Profound Yellow Pce has quite a temper...</i>" Fairy Tianyin conveyed through sound transmission.


    "<i>Go easy on him? Forget it. They weren''t nning on going easy on Fang Jue either just now. Look at Fang Jue,</i>" Dongfang Haojie replied through sound transmission.


    Fairy Tianyin was about to scold him but then her gaze fell on Fang Jue. She saw his weak appearance, but she also saw that he had a silly smile as he looked at Fang Chen, and her heart softened slightly.


    "Junior Brother Fang, your injury...."


    "It''s nothing, just some flesh wounds. Did you all see? It''s really Fang Chen, right? I''m not dreaming, haha... Ah...."


    Fang Jue winced as the movement caused his injuries to re.


    "What''s the matter? Afraid to fight now? If you really are Fang Chen and can y Nascent Soul Realm cultivators with your sword, you shouldn''t be afraid of my senior brother," Mu Zhaowen sneered.


    Fang Chen ignored Mu Zhaowen and smiled at Yun Tiancheng. "Is this a fight to the death?"


    This conversation was simr to the one between Fang Jue and Mu Zhaowen a while ago.


    "Life or death depends on¡ª"


    Yun Tiancheng instinctively spoke but then suddenly thought of something, a faint smile appearing on his face. "We have no grievances between us, so why fight to the death? Let''s just exchange some pointers."


    Although the rumors were likely false, the possibility that his opponent was a sword cultivator was still there. Killing a sword cultivator would require paying too high a price.


    "Alright, let''s exchange some pointers then," said Fang Chen with a nod.


    They exchanged a nce, and in the next moment, both of them moved at the same time. Yun Tiancheng employed his old tricks, summoning a towering golden-armored giant behind Fang Chen and aiming a palm strike at him.


    Fang Chen casually swung his sword, reducing the giant to ashes. His figure then vanished abruptly and reappeared in front of Yun Tiancheng. With a light flick of his wrist, Fang Chen''s sword smacked Yun Tiancheng''s mouth, leaving him dizzy and disoriented. When Yun Tiancheng came back to his senses, he opened his mouth, spitting out some shattered teeth.


    The onlookers were stunned. Some rubbed their eyes in disbelief, wondering if they were under an illusion. How could Yun Tiancheng be beaten to such a state in the blink of an eye?


    Yun Tiancheng''s eyes shed with horror. "You...."


    Suddenly, Fang Chen disappeared again. By the time Yun Tiancheng reacted, he felt intense pain in his mouth once more. He realized that Fang Chen had appeared beside him and struck his mouth with his sword again.


    Mu Zhaohuo was dumbfounded, finding it hard to believe what he was witnessing. Was this still the Chief Disciple of the Profound Gate of the Profound Yellow Pce, Yun Tiancheng?


    Afternding that hit, Fang Chen created distance and bowed with sped hands, smiling.


    "Thanks for going easy on me."


    "He''s still so elusive," muttered Dongfang Haojie in amazement. Back then, even a Nascent Soul Realm expert like Immortal Void Rush couldn''t perceive Fang Chen''s movements. With such skills, defeating anyone would be effortless.


    After a brief dizziness, Yun Tiancheng came back to his senses, looking to be in a sorry state.


    Yun Tiancheng''s handsome face was ruined due to swelling around his mouth, which destroyed his attractiveness. He even looked somewhatical right now.


    Yun Tiancheng slowly covered his mouth, and a powerful surge of spiritual energy enveloped him, forming a thick spiritual barrier. "Going easy on you?"


    Before Fang Chen could speak, a raging tide of spiritual energy had already surged around him. "We aren''t done yet! Isn''t it too early for you to say that?"


    <i>Boom! Boom! Boom! </i>


    In theke, four towering golden-armored giants gradually stood up, each with a height of hundreds of feet, all formed from the power of the metal element.


    Seeing that, the onlookers couldn''t help but inhale sharply. Is this the true strength of Yun Tiancheng, the Chief Disciple of the Profound Gate?


    Even a Golden Core Realm expert would find it difficult to control such majestic power of the metal element.


    With eerie eyes fixed on Fang Chen, Yun Tiancheng said, "I''ll show you my true abilities. Are you ready?"


    "Fang Chen might be in trouble. Yun Tiancheng was caught off guard earlier because he didn''t use a spiritual barrier to protect himself. Now that he''s reacted and not taking things lightly, how can Fang Chen approach him with this spiritual barrier in ce?"


    "Right, especially with these four golden-armored warriors assisting, Fang Chen can only defend himself."


    Hushed conversations circted among the crowd.


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "You want to continue? Sure."


    Fang Chen swung his sword lightly, easily slicing through the four golden-armored giants like cutting tofu. He then shattered Yun Tiancheng''s spiritual barrier.


    <i>Bang! </i>


    The sword struck Yun Tiancheng''s mouth again, causing his figure to arc in mid-air and plummet straight into theke.


    He plunged into the waters, giving rise to a ssh. Afterward, some water bubbles emerged on theke''s surface, which soon returned to its original calm state.


    All the whispering disappeared at that moment.


    Fang Chen looked toward Mu Zhaohe and smiled. "The spar between me and your senior brother is over. It''s your turn now."


    Mu Zhaohe''s neck and cheeks turned red. "Me!? When did I agree to spar with you?!"


    "Why would I need your agreement?" replied Fang Chen, chuckling lightly and vanishing from his spot.


    <i>Boom! Boom! Boom! </i>


    The sword struck Mu Zhaohe''s mouth three times, shattering his teeth and leaving him dizzy and disoriented, just like Yun Tiancheng, and he plunged into theke.


    The Chief Disciples of the Profound Gate and Yellow Gate had been both defeated.


    The crowd dared not make a sound, watching Fang Chen and the others gracefully depart.


    Regardless of whether the rumors were true or not, they now knew the formidable strength of that Grand Qian sword cultivator. Fang Chen toyed with the two Chief Disciples like they were children. That alone was enough to rank him among the top geniuses in the Azure Cloud Empire!


    Someone looked towards theke. "Will those two... be okay?"


    In the next moment, Mu Zhaohe flew out of theke carrying Yun Tiancheng, both in a sorry state. They quickly left the area.


    At this moment, the appearances of the two were very simr, with a swollen mouth. They actually looked like ducks.


    "Why did that sword cultivator only hit their mouths?" someone suddenly asked.


    A few momentster, someone replied softly, "Perhaps he is telling them... that they will draw trouble to themselves if they talk too much nonsense?"


    The crowd nodded thoughtfully, finding this exnation most reasonable.


    Excitedly, they left the ce as they chatted, guessing that today''s events would soon spread throughout the Imperial Capital of the Azure Cloud Empire.


    Within the crowd were many cultivators from the Profound Yellow Pce. After witnessing today''s events, each of them had expressions as if they had lost their parents.


    The two Chief Disciples of the Profound Yellow Pce... had been defeated by the same person. If the news spread throughout the Azure Cloud Empire, it would be a devastating blow to the reputation of the Profound Yellow Pce!


    On the way to the Purple Pole Dao Academy, Dongfang Haojie was extremely curious about how Fang Chen managed toe back to life and he kept on asking.


    Fang Chen was annoyed and attributed everything to his merits.


    "Merits... no wonder my cultivation has advanced so quickly in recent years. It seems that I have also unknowingly gained some merits," Dongfang Haojie muttered to himself.


    Fairy Tianyin pondered silently.


    <i>The power of merits... this invisible and intangible force, is it really so miraculous that it can even bring people back to life?</i>

 Chapter 479: A Member of the Killing Spiritual Division

    <h4>Chapter 479: A Member of the Killing Spiritual Division</h4>


    As they approached the Purple Pole Dao Academy, Dongfang Haojie suddenly remembered Little Cow Dung''s existence, and he asked with raised brows, "Brother Fang Chen, who is this little kid? Is he your son"


    Fairy Tianyin was also curious.


    Fang Jue carefully examined Little Cow Dung''s appearance but couldn''t see any resemnce to Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen smiled. "He''s a disciple I''ve taken in."


    The three were taken aback and Dongfang Haojie sighed. "His talent must be excellent to be valued by you."


    "He has a four-chimes talent," Fang Chen replied.


    "I knew it...? Huh?


    Dongfang Haojie was slightly stunned, looking at Little Cow Dung with disbelief.


    Did I hear that correctly? A four-chimes talent?


    Fang Jue also found this odd. A talent like that was considered below average even in the Grand Qian Empire. Even in the Fang Family, the prerequisite to qualify to practice the family''s unique heritage was to have at least a five-chime talent. Anyone below five chimes would only have a basic Qi Refining method and would have to rely on themselves.


    Even in ces like the Purple Pole Dao Academy, where no one had a talent rating below seven chimes, Fang Jue barely managed to get in because he reached the minimum requirements!


    Little Cow Dung''s eyes revealed a hint of inferiority, subconsciously holding Fang Chen''s hand tightly.


    Sensing this, Fang Chen smiled faintly. "What''s with these expressions? Who said that those with talent below four chimes can''t cultivate immortality? Cultivation depends on opportunities. Little Cow Dung¡¯s meeting with me is his opportunity."


    With that, Fang Chen looked at Little Cow Dung. "Work hard in the future, strive for the opportunity to establish your foundation. Even if you can''t establish one, it''s okay. Qi Refining Realm cultivators can still aplish a lot."


    Dongfang Haojie''s expression turned strange. "Brother Fang Chen, is your expectation for disciples just... for them to reach the Foundation Building Realm?"


    Fang Chen smiled lightly. "No one ever said that one must reach the level of a sect leader to cultivate, right? As long as one doesn''t forget their original goal, it''s enough. Little Cow Dungi''s goal is to find his mother, so having cultivation at the Qi Refining Realm is sufficient."


    The three suddenly felt that Fang Chen''s words were unexpectedly broad-minded, breaking their previous understanding of cultivation.


    "Not forgetting one''s goal in cultivation..." Fairy Tianyin murmured softly, with a thoughtful look in her eyes.


    Just then, an old woman suddenly appeared in front of everyone.


    Dongfang Haojie and the others quickly bowed. "We pay respects to Elder Yan."


    "<i>Fang Chen, this is Elder Yan of our Purple Pole Dao Academy. She''s also a direct disciple of Immortal Void Rush,</i>" Dongfang Haojie transmitted.


    Elder Yan looked to be in her seventies or eighties. She looked at Fang Chen for a moment and suddenly smiled. "Your demeanor is indeed very simr to that of Fang Tingyuan."


    Fang Chen smiled and asked. "You know my ancestor, senior?"


    "I''ve met him a few times. It''s a pity he passed away young; otherwise, he would have been a mighty Nascent Soul Realm by now." Elder Yan smiled. "The master instructed me to bring you over. Follow me."


    Fang Chen nodded lightly, handed Little Cow Dung to the care of the three, and then followed Elder Yan to the front of Immortal Void Rush''s cave dwelling, deep in the Purple Pole Dao Academy.


    Elder Yan showed a respectful expression, bowing and saluting toward the cave dwelling. "Master, they have arrived."


    As the door of the cave-dwelling slowly opened, Immortal Void Rush''s voice drifted out, "Let hime in alone."


    Elder Yan made a gesture of invitation, and after seeing Fang Chen enter and the doors close, she turned and left.


    The cave dwelling of Immortal Void Rush was much simpler than Fang Chen had imagined, with no fancy decorations but ample spiritual energy, indicating the presence of a spirit-gathering formation.


    As he walked inside, Fang Chen soon arrived at a medicinal field and happened to see Immortal Void Rush watering the spiritual herbs with a pot of water.


    Fang Chen didn''t disturb her and waited quietly until she was done.


    After a while, Immortal Void Rush put down the water pot and turned to look at Fang Chen, a faint smile appearing on her face.


    "Fellow Cultivator Fang, it''s quite surprising that you''re still alive," Immortal Void Rush said.


    "I''m also quite surprised," Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    "Your fortune is indeed much deeper than that of your ancestor''s." Immortal Void Rush sighed lightly. She then asked casually, "You must''vee to the Purple Pole Dao Academy for a reason. You aren''t just here to catch up with Fang Jue and the others, right?"


    Fang Chen got straight to the point. "I want to know about the Killing Spiritual Division."


    "The Killing Spiritual Division...." Immortal Void Rush gazed at Fang Chen for a moment and nodded gently. "Follow me."


    She led Fang Chen to the guest hall and personally brewed a pot of spiritual tea, then slowly began speaking, "Over a decade ago in the Grand Qian Empire, you were the one who alerted Dongfang Haojie to the Spirit Blood Sect''s plot. I''m curious, how did youe by this information?"


    "I beg your pardon, but I cannot speak about these matters," Fang Chen replied gently, shaking his head.


    "Are you worried that I might be a Spirit Blood Sect cultivator?" Immortal Void Rush asked with a half-smile.


    Fang Chen smiled back but remained silent.


    After a few moments of silence, Immortal Void Rush nodded gently. "Alright, I won''t ask about that. Do you want to join the Killing Spiritual Division?"


    "If possible." Fang Chen nodded. "My goal aligns with the Killing Spiritual Division, but with my strength alone, I can''t kill many Spirit Blood Sect scoundrels. If there are like-minded individuals working together, I believe we can achieve some results."


    "To join the Killing Spiritual Division, there are usually some assessments involved, such as strength assessment and a thorough investigation of background details. I don''t know much about you, but considering you are a descendant of Fang Tianyuan and have achieved something in the Grand Qian Empire, you are fully qualified to join the Killing Spiritual Division. Over these years, many senior members of the Killing Spiritual Division have praised you. In the future, you may have the opportunity to meet these seniors."


    Immortal Void Rush chuckled lightly and casually tossed a ck ring to Fang Chen.


    "Once you refine this ring with your blood essence, it will signify your membership in the Killing Spiritual Division. The Killing Spiritual Division doesn''t differentiate in status; it''s all about cooperation. There are no superior or subordinate distinctions. Just as I cannot easilymand you, this ring not only symbolizes your identity but also serves as amunication token, allowing you to connect with Killing Spiritual Division members within thousands of miles.


    ¡°If they need help, they will send messages to nearby Killing Spiritual Division cultivators, and whether to help or not is up to individual judgment. Because no one can guarantee whether the person calling you is a member of the Killing Spiritual Division or a Spirit Blood Sect cultivator."


    "Within the Killing Spiritual Division, there is no distinction of status?" Fang Chen frowned slightly. "Without such distinctions, how can this massive force truly operate? When facing the Spirit Blood Sect, it''s inevitable to suffer losses."


    Having spent many years in the military, he understood the importance of clear orders. He didn''t expect the structure of the Killing Spiritual Division to be somewhat scattered.


    "It doese with some disadvantages, but it also prevents many troubles. Over time, you will understand the reasons behind it. By the way, besides me, it''s best not to let others know that you are a member of the Killing Spiritual Division. Even if you help, you should maintain a disguise." Immortal Void Rush lightly smiled. "Except for a few who know you well, others won''t be able to distinguish between friend or foe. This is for your safety."


    Fang Chen nodded thoughtfully, fidgeting with the ck ring in his hand. He condensed a drop of blood and used his spiritual energy to refine it on the spot. When the refinement wasplete, the ck ring slowly disappeared from his finger, as if melding into his flesh.


    <i>A new member has joined....</i>


    <i>How would you like to be addressed?</i>


    <i>I have recentlye across a clue that may be rted to a Spirit Blood Sect general. Is anyone willing to investigate with me</i>

 Chapter 480: I Am Named the Eternity Heavenly Sage

    <h4>Chapter 480: I Am Named the Eternity Heavenly Sage</h4>


    Immortal Void Rush smiled lightly. "You''ve seen it too... Look at the person calling for help investigating a Spirit Blood Sect¡¯s general. For now, stay out of it. You can choose a title now; in the future, your title in the Killing Spiritual Division will be your name."


    After thinking for a moment, a name crossed Fang Chen''s mind.


    <i>Everyone, I am named the Eternity Heavenly Sage</i>


    Immortal Void Rush couldn¡¯t help but fall silent for a moment.


    She stared at Fang Chen, feeling speechless. "Isn''t this title a bit too grand? The words Eternity and Heavenly Sage are not to be mentioned casually...."


    "Exactly. No one would think that the Eternity Heavenly Sage would be a mere Foundation Building Realm cultivator." Fang Chen smiled. "This will help me hide my identity, ensure my safety, and also intimidate Spirit Blood Sect cultivators. If there are Spirit Blood Sect spies in the Killing Spiritual Division, hearing this title will make them think twice about plotting against me."


    Immortal Void Rush quietly contemted over his words.


    <i>Eternity Heavenly Sage, what cultivation level do you have? Are you in the middle three realms?</i>


    Someone sent a message, while others remained silent, clearly observing the situation.


    <i>The Eternity Heavenly Sage is a senior. Everyone should show enough respect towards him. I, Ling Xiao, can vouch for that.</i>


    <i>A senior indeed? It seems our Killing Spiritual Division has grown stronger again.</i>


    <i>Congrattions.</i>


    Fang Chen looked at Immortal Void Rush with a strange expression. "Senior Void Rush, is your title Ling Xiao?"


    Immortal Void Rush nodded gently, a smile ying on her lips. "With my endorsement, they should have no doubt about your identity."


    <i>Eternity Heavenly Sage, do you want to investigate the clue about the Spirit Blood Sect¡¯s general together with me? He may be lurking in the Hidden Immortal Empire. If we can find out his true identity, we can directly eliminate many Spirit Blood Sect cultivators.</i>


    <i>I''m going to the Central Continent, I don''t have time for now.</i>


    <i>Ah, what a pity...</i>


    Fang Chen looked at Immortal Void Rush with a puzzled expression. "Senior Void Rush, although it is convenient to have a title, won''t Spirit Blood Sect cultivators lurking in the Killing Spiritual Division take advantage of it and impersonate members?"


    "If anyone dares to use someone else''s title, their true nature will be revealed." Immortal Void Rush''s lips curled up slightly. "In the past, there were Spirit Blood Sect cultivators who wanted to use this to harm the Killing Spiritual Division, but they forgot where our rings came from."


    "The rings we use are all personally crafted by the Killing Spiritual Division founder. Now that you''ve chosen a title, the founder already knows. If he finds out that you''re using someone else''s title for malicious purposes, it''s like admitting to the founder that you''re a Spirit Blood Sect cultivator."


    Her eyes twinkled with amusement. "At that time, no matter where you are, the founder can easily find you, take your ring, and your life."


    Fang Chen was slightly stunned, feeling as if there were invisible eyes staring at him, unsure if it was just his imagination.


    Seemingly guessing what Fang Chen was thinking, Immortal Void Rush smiled lightly. "The founder isn''t so bored as to constantly watch over us. You don''t need to worry about your secrets being leaked."


    Fang Chen suddenly became curious. "Senior Void Rush, I wonder what''s the founder''s title?"


    ¡°The founder doesn''t have a title, or rather... no one knows which title belongs to the founder.¡±


    Immortal Void Rush lightly shook her head. ¡°Just remember, the only goal of the Killing Spiritual Division is to deal with the Spirit Blood Sect. We onlye together because of the Spirit Blood Sect. In ordinary days, you are you, and I am I. There won''t be much interaction.¡±


    Fang Chen nodded slightly, having a preliminary concept of the Killing Spiritual Division''s structure. The Killing Spiritual Division is not like a sect or a family; members would not have much contact with each other privately unless the target was the Spirit Blood Sect.


    ¡°However... there is one thing simr to sects, and that is, those who achieve merit will be rewarded.¡± Immortal Void Rush chuckled lightly. ¡°The founder is already aware of your existence, so your reward should be arriving soon.¡±


    Fang Chen was slightly surprised. ¡°Arriving soon?¡±


    At that moment, there was a knock on the door. Immortal Void Rush smiled and led Fang Chen outside the cave. They saw an eagle holding a flying sword, waiting silently. When it saw Fang Chen, it dropped the flying sword and disappeared into the sky with a turn.


    Immortal Void Rush picked up the flying sword, showing a hint of admiration on her face. ¡°This is a high-grade, yellow-rank flying sword with one hundred and eight Soul Imprints. One more soul imprint and it would be a low-grade, profound rank flying sword.¡±


    She handed it to Fang Chen. ¡°This is the reward from the founder.¡±


    Fang Chen took the flying sword, his gaze somewhat serious. From the moment he refined the ring till now, only the time it took to drink a cup of tea passed. The reward arrived too quickly.


    No wonder Immortal Void Rush said that if someone impersonated a title, they would have their life taken by the founder in an instant. This was indeed true.


    Fang Chen sighed inwardly. ¡°Experts at their level truly have extraordinary means.¡±


    ¡°Little Chen, this flying sword is equivalent to four ordinary high-grade, yellow-rank treasures,¡± said Little Sword with a hint of excitement.


    ¡°<i>Hmm, I''ll give it to youter,</i>¡± thought Fang Chen.


    ¡°You''re going to the Central Continent next? That ce is not as simple as it seems. When you get there, it''s better not to get involved in ordinary tasks, just focus on cultivation. If I may give you advice, I hope you can stay in the Hidden Cloud Region for cultivation. The Central Continent is not suitable for cultivators in the lower four realms,¡± Immortal Void Rush advised.


    Fang Chen smiled. ¡°There are reasons I must go,¡±


    Since advancing to the Foundation Building Realm, his cultivation progress had stagnated, and even his spiritual energy had stopped increasing. This was mainly because the Three Thousand Dao Foundation Scriptures were cultivation techniques for the Qi Refining Realm. Only by joining the Three Thousand Dao Sect could he obtain cultivation techniques suited for those in the Foundation Building Realm.


    The only thing that had improved recently would be his Sword Body. Little Sword had been devouring some treasures, subtly enhancing it.


    Having experienced the incident over a decade ago, Fang Chen already understood that if he wanted to fully unleash the supreme power of the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture, his own cultivation level needed to keep up. He couldn''t risk depleting his lifespan every time.


    He had only been able to survive this time because of the merits he had umted. If it worked out this time, would it work out the next?


    ¡°In a first-tier empire, your identity as a sword cultivator... may not be as useful as you imagine, but... everyone has their own opportunities. I won''t say much more.¡± Immortal Void Rush smiled and turned back to her cave dwelling. Seeing the door slowly closing, Fang Chen knew that Immortal Void Rush was seeing him off. He bowed respectfully, then turned and left.


    Outside, Elder Yan seemed to have been waiting. Fang Chen''s mind stirred, and he asked, ¡°Elder Yan, did you see an eagle just now?¡±


    ¡°An eagle?¡± Elder Yan raised an eyebrow, then smiled faintly. ¡°This is the Purple Pole Dao Academy. Without our permission, no living creature can enter without being noticed.¡±


    <i>She couldn''t see it.... Even a Golden Core Realm cultivator couldn''t see it. The founder''s methods are indeed mysterious. I wonder if that eagle is a living creature or some kind of technique,</i> Fang Chen thought.


    Half an hourter, Elder Yan led Fang Chen to a bamboo building where Dongfang Haojie and the others had been waiting for a long time.


    ¡°Fellow Cultivator Fang, the Patriarch has instructed that you are wee to stay here for as long as you like,¡± Elder Yan said with a light smile before leaving.


    Seeing this, Dongfang Haojie hurriedly approached Fang Chen and asked, ¡°Brother Fang Chen, what did Elder Void Rush say to you?¡±


    His expression hinted at something, though subtly.

 Chapter 481: Sneaky Sneaky

    <h4>Chapter 481: Sneaky Sneaky</h4>


    <i>I know you''re a member of the Killing Spiritual Division, but you don''t know that I am too, </i>Dongfang Haojie thought to himself


    Fang Chen looked at Dongfang Haojie with a slight smile and casually replied, "Elder Void Rush just asked about my recent situation, nothing more."


    Dongfang Haojie frowned slightly, wanting to hint a bit more, but Fang Chen expressed that he was feeling tired and wanted to rest.


    "Fang Chen, I live over by the Illusion Pce. If you n to leave, remember to let me know," Fang Jue said softly.


    Fang Chen nodded. "I will. You focus on cultivating. If someone spreads rumors in the future, just ignore them. Don''t bother arguing."


    Fang Jue blushed a little. He knew that if Fang Chen hadn''t been there this time, he might have ended up dead. Since the grievances between the two sides were known everywhere, the Purple Pole Dao Academy couldn''t say much.


    After Dongfang Haojie and the others left, Fang Chen saw Little Cow Dung diligently studying the Purple Qi Manual. He then went to a quiet room to take out the flying sword he just received for Little Sword to devour. He also threw all the scattered low-grade spirit stones for Mirror of the Universe to eat, leaving only a neat forty thousand.


    Feeling satisfied, Mirror of the Universe politely thanked him, "Thank you, brother."


    "If I want to know where the Kunlong Battle General is currently recuperating, how many low-grade spirit stones do I need to spend?" Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    Mirror of the Universe was slightly surprised. "Brother, do you really want to know? Just thirty thousand low-grade spirit stones are enough for me to calcte his whereabouts!"


    "Little Chen, the old thing is trying to swindle you. I think at most twenty thousand should be enough!" Little Sword said while devouring the flying sword.


    ¡°Stop talking nonsense, I need at least twenty-five thousand!¡± the Mirror of the Universe retorted angrily. "Youngster, you mind your own business, I''ll earn what I deserve. We have nothing to do with each other!"


    "Twenty thousand low-grade spirit stones, deal?" Fang Chen offered.


    Mirror of the Universe immediately changed its tone, saying decisively, "Deal!"


    It seemed that twenty low-grade spirit stones would still bring it a decent profit. Its initial offer of thirty thousand was out to deceive him.


    Fang Chen re-evaluated Mirror of the Universe in his mind. He decided to let Little Sword help with bargaining in the future.


    Fang Chen took out twenty thousand low-grade spirit stones and poured them all into Mirror of the Universe.


    Mirror of the Universe devoured all twenty thousand low-grade spirit stones in a short moment.


    No matter where you were, twenty thousand low-grade spirit stones were a considerable sum. They were even enough to buy two high-grade, yellow-rank treasures! No one would have expected Fang Chen to bring out such arge amount of spirit stones just to find someone''s whereabouts.


    "Brother, turn to page thirty-seven," Mirror of the Universe said contentedly.


    Fang Chen flipped to page thirty-seven and activated the Primordial Immortal Eye. The contents of the page were presented before his eyes in line form. He saw a young man in seclusion, recovering from injuries. His appearance waspletely different from Master Chanyuan''s, indicating that he was disguised.


    Soon, a line of text appeared on the page.


    <i>Hidden Cloud Region, the capital of the fifth-tier Spirit Tortoise Empire, House No. 8, Lianli Lane.</i>


    Mirror of the Universe was very urate. It even pinpointed his address.


    Fang Chen immediatelymunicated through his ring. <i>This is Eternity Heavenly Sage. Kunlong Battle General is heavily injured and is recovering at House No. 8, Lianli Lane, in the capital of the Five-Ranked Spirit Tortoise Empire. </i>


    <i>Is this true!? Kunlong Battle General is in the Spirit Tortoise Empire?</i>


    <i>Why is he heavily injured?</i>


    <i>Forget about that, let''s all go and see together. If we really encounter Kunlong Battle General, we''ll just kill him.</i>


    A faint smile appeared in Fang Chen''s eyes.


    This way, he wouldn''t need to take action personally, and Kunlong Battle General would have trouble on his hands. If these Killing Spiritual Division cultivators werepetent enough, they might just capture Kunlong Battle General.


    "Little Zhou, how much low-grade spirit stones would it cost me to find an ordinary person?" Fang Chen asked again.


    <i>Another deal?</i>


    Mirror of the Universe''s eyes lit up. "Brother, tell me the name and date of birth, and I''ll calcte the price."


    Fang Chen gave the name and date of birth of Fang Cangyue to Mirror of the Universe.


    A few momentster, the Mirror of the Universe looked surprised, caught off guard. "Brother, without several hundred thousand low-grade spirit stones, I''m afraid I can''t locate this person. The karmic ties involved are quite significant, and there might be a middle three realm cultivator around her."


    "Middle three realm!?" Fang Chen''s brow furrowed slightly. After a moment of contemtion, he asked again, "Check the whereabouts of Xia Xuanji."


    Fang Chen also provided Xia Xuanji''s date of birth to the Mirror of the Universe. Although he didn''t know if it was true or false, he believed the Mirror of the Universe could discern it.


    "Brother, this will also cost several hundred thousand low-grade spirit stones," Mirror of the Universe replied.


    Fang Chen''s eyes showed a hint of seriousness. "So Xia Xuanji didn''t die after all."


    He was reminded of the methods used by Supreme Immortal Pudu and Kunlong Battle General, both of whom could create a clone for their own use.


    "Could Xia Xuanji also be a clone of a powerful member of the Spirit Blood Sect? Has the real Xia Xuanji been reced long ago?"


    Various spections flooded Fang Chen''s mind. He decided that if he had the chance in the future, he would definitely get to the bottom of this.


    Little Sword quicklypletely assimted the high-grade, yellow-rank flying sword. When it merged with Fang Chen, he received feedback from the Sword Body. This flying sword had indeed greatly enhanced Little Sword, and his Sword Body also became slightly stronger. Although his cultivation level couldn''t temporarily improve, it was fortunate that the Sword Body could continuously grow stronger.


    "Little Chen, I have a premonition that there will be a new inheritance unsealed after advancing to the fourth rank," Little Sword said.


    Fang Chen''s eyes lit up. <i>A new inheritance?</i>


    The Eight Destes Supreme Sword Scripture was already very powerful, so the inheritance that would be unsealed after reaching the fourth rank would certainly not be weak.


    "Little Sword, tell me how many more high-grade, yellow-rank treasures you need to advance to the fourth-rank Sword Body."


    "Well... If they''re all of the same quality as the ones just now, then maybe five pieces should be enough..."


    Fang Chen chuckled. "It''s not easy to find yellow rank high-grade treasures of that quality."


    He had purchased several high-grade, yellow-rank treasures, but they mostly had eighty Soul Imprints. High-grade, yellow-rank treasures with one hundred and eight Soul Imprints were probably difficult to find on the market, and it would be challenging to buy them with spirit stones. At least in fourth-tier empires, he wouldn''t be lucky enough to encounter such good treasures.


    ¡°If they are of inferior quality... I should need twenty or so...¡± Little Sword estimated.


    "Twenty-something pieces of high-grade, yellow-rank treasures... I wonder if it will be enough to advance the Sword Body to the fourth rank before going to the Central Continent," Fang Chen mused.


    With a thought, his divine soul left his body and instantly arrived above the Profound Yellow Pce. There were seven or eight auras of Golden Core Realm cultivators inside, and one aura was far stronger than the Golden Core Realm but weaker than Immortal Void Rush.


    At this moment, seven or eight Gold Core cultivators were gathered together, along with several hundred Profound Yellow Pce cultivators. Their gazes were all focused on Yun Tiancheng and Mu Zhaohe, both of whom had different expressions but equally grim faces.


    "You two are the Chief Disciples of the Yellow and Profound Gates, the most outstanding geniuses of the Profound Yellow Pce''s younger generation"


    The Golden Core Realm cultivator at the center spoke slowly, his voice tinged with anger. "But what have you done today? Where have you ced the face of the Profound Yellow Pce?"


    "Master..." Yun Tiancheng''s voice was hoarse, "It was because I was careless and underestimated the enemy."


    The head of Profound Yellow Pce snorted coldly. "Yun Tiancheng, with your exceptional talent, your affinity with the Five Elements'' power is simr to ours, even with your cultivation at thete Foundation Building Realm. Once you advance to the Gold Core Realm, your future will be limitless. However, instead of focusing on your cultivation, you got into a dispute. Do you realize your mistake?"


    Seeing this scene, Fang Chen concluded that those Golden Core Realm cultivators were unaware that Yun Tiancheng''s mastery of the Five Elements'' power came not from his innate talent but from the Radiant Divine Eyes.

 Chapter 482 Disappeared Without a Trace

    <h4>Chapter 482 Disappeared Without a Trace</h4>


    Yun Tiancheng fell silent for a few breaths, then slowly said, "I realize my mistake. However, members of the Fang Family have killed several of the Profound Yellow Pce''s geniuses in the past, creating deep-seated enmity. Junior Brother Mu had an ancestor who died at the hands of a Fang Family cultivator. Therefore, choosing to deal with Fang Jue is understandable. I just wanted to help Junior Brother Mu vent his anger and stand up for justice on behalf of our Profound Yellow Pce."


    "Senior Brother, I think we should let it go. Their actions have reasons behind them. I still vividly remember how Fang Tengyuan treated the Profound Yellow Pce in the past. If it were me, I might not be able to resist taking action too. It''s just that we are elders, and it''s not appropriate for us to attack juniors," advised a Golden Core Realm cultivator in a soft voice.


    The other Golden Core Realm cultivators nced at each other and also spoke up to absolve the two of me.


    Theplexion of the Profound Yellow Pce''s patriarch eased slightly, and he said lightly, "The fact that you remember grudges from hundreds of years ago shows that you indeed hold the Profound Yellow Pce in your hearts."


    Mu Zhaohe breathed a sigh of relief inwardly; it seemed he wouldn''t be punished.


    After a pause, the leader continued, "What have you learned about Fang Chen from your encounter with him? Is his strength really as rumored?"


    The expressions of everyone turned serious.


    Yun Tiancheng nodded slowly, a trace of fear showing in his eyes. "His sword intent is terrifying. My spiritual barrier couldn''t stop it. Besides, he seems to have a special technique. I couldn''t even tell when he got close to me."


    "The sword cultivation lineage focuses on offense. With such formidable offensive powerbined with a special technique, ordinary cultivators would find it difficult to defend against."


    The Profound Yellow Pce''s Patriarch nodded softly. "However... you don''t need to worry too much. A sword cultivator''s weakness is that they''re short-lived. After a few hundred years, those who are still alive will be among you."


    The expressions of the crowd turned strange, but they could onlypare lifespan with sword cultivators.


    "The two of you should focus on your cultivation and avoid going out for a while. Don''t give Fang Chen any excuse toe and kill you," the Profound Yellow Pce''s Patriarch instructed.


    He then turned around and left.


    The other Golden Core Realm cultivators also left one after another,forting the two as they departed.


    After everyone had left, the two returned to Yun Tiancheng''s cave dwelling in silence. Yun Tiancheng activated a formation, and a barrier of spiritual energy instantly enveloped the entire cave, making it imprable.


    "You guessed right, Senior Brother Yuntian. Fang Chen will indeed show up in the Azure Cloud Empire," Mu Zhaohe said, his earlier frivolous expression disappearing, reced by a hint of mockery. "He couldn''t resist showing himself, revealing his location to us. The Azure Dragon Battle General will easily capture him now."


    Yun Tiancheng frowned slightly. "It was also Kunlong Battle General who conveyed this information to us. Otherwise, I would have thought he was dead for sure."


    Fang Chen stood nearby, quietly listening to their conversation.


    Azure Dragon Battle General. That was probably another prominent figure from the Spirit Blood Sect. Fang Chen had never heard of him before, and he didn''t know his strength. He wondered if the sword intent left behind by Senior Huang from the Void Immortal Sword Sect would be enough to deal with him.


    Mu Zhaohe suddenly showed a hint of admiration. "Senior Brother Yuntian, why do you think Kunlong Battle General knows that Fang Chen might still be alive? If not for him telling me to mess with Fang Jue, it wouldn¡¯t be easy to draw Fang Chen out without suspicion."


    ¡°He might have guessed,¡± Yun Tiancheng said lightly. "But this time, the price we paid was not small. Losing to Fang Chen in front of countless cultivators, I''m afraid many people will gossip behind our backs."


    "It doesn''t matter. What use is facepared to Blood Spirit Pills? Fang Chen''s bounty is worth a hundred Blood Spirit Pills. Even if we split it, you''ll have a chance to break through to the Golden Core Realm, and I can try to reach the grandpletion stage of the Foundation Building Realm," Mu Zhaohe said, a slight smirk ying on his lips.


    Losing a few teeth and a bit of face didn''t bother him much. What he cared about was tangible benefits!


    "The Spirit Blood Sect is hunting me down? I am worth a hundred Blood Spirit Pills?"


    Fang Chen was somewhat surprised. The Spirit Blood Sect was really going all out, offering a bounty for a dead person.


    A Blood Spirit Pill required the blood essence of a hundred thousand mortals, so a hundred pills would be a staggering ten million mortal blood essences! Countless mortals had likely been refined into Blood Spirit Pills over the years.


    "Now that he''s in the open and we''re in the shadows, we just need to wait for Azure Dragon Battle General to make a move. By then, Fang Chen will truly be dead," Mu Zhaohe said, somewhat gleeful.


    "Kunlong Battle General mentioned that he carries some kind of sword intent, perhaps from the Void Immortal Sword Sect. Even if Azure Dragon Battle General is going to act, he needs to be prepared to avoid being injured." Yun Tiancheng shook his head lightly. "You go back to cultivate first. I need to focus on my cultivation. If I can reach the grandpletion stage of the Foundation Building Realm before getting those Blood Spirit Pills, I can directly strive for the Golden Core Realm then."


    Mu Zhaohe smiled faintly. ¡°Congrattions to Senior Brother in advance."


    After that, Mu Zhaohe turned and left the cave-dwelling.


    After Mu Zhaohe left, Yun Tiancheng slowly took out a jade slip and held it in his hand, rubbing it gently. "Is the strength of sword cultivators truly unstoppable? Even with my Radiant Divine Eyes, am I still no match for them... No, it must be because I''ve been cking in my cultivation of the Radiant Divine Eyes, not reaching its full potential yet. This eye technique is unparalleled in the world. As long as I cultivate diligently, I will surely make something of myself in the future!"


    With that thought, Yun Tiancheng sat down in ce, pressing the jade slip against his forehead and starting to cultivate the Radiant Divine Eyes.


    Fang Chen returned his soul to his body. Then, he immediately used the Shadow Buddha Technique. In an extremely short time, he traversed through more than half of the Azure Cloud Empire''s capital and arrived outside Yun Tiancheng''s cave dwelling.


    The residence was protected by formations. Intruding would trigger an rm, giving Yun Tiancheng the chance to react. However, such formations were child''s y in Fang Chen''s eyes. He easily found loopholes in the formation, opened one gate after another, and silently approached Yun Tiancheng.


    Yun Tiancheng''s eyes were closed tightly, and Fang Chen could faintly see a strange blue light seeping through his eyelids.


    Seeing that he was so focused, Fang Chen didn''t disturb him and directly knocked Yun Tiancheng unconscious, picking up the jade slip and leaving.


    After an unknown period, Yun Tiancheng slowly regained consciousness.


    "Why does my head ache so much after this session of cultivation?"


    He subconsciously touched the back of his head, feeling sticky. Upon closer inspection, his hand was covered in blood!


    He suddenly remembered that he had been practicing the Radiant Divine Eyes technique when, for some reason, he was interrupted, seemingly falling into aa!


    Yun Tiancheng immediately checked the formation in his cave and found it operating normally without any abnormalities.


    "Did I experience cultivation deviation? No, this is clearly an external injury.... Wait, my jade slip!"


    Anxiousness spread across Yun Tiancheng''s face as he searched everywhere for the jade slip, only to realize it had vanished!


    His face turned pale.


    The cultivation of the Radiant Divine Eyes wasplex, and with his current strength, he could only see a part of the contents in the jade slip. Now that the jade slip was missing, how could he continue cultivating the rest of the Radiant Divine Eyes?

 Chapter 483: Unable to Touch

    <h4>Chapter 483: Unable to Touch</h4>


    In a quiet room inside Purple Pole Dao Academy.


    Fang Chen held the jade slip in his hand as spiritual energy surged, continuously pouring information into his mind.


    The cultivation method for the Radiant Divine Eyes was somewhat simplerpared to the Primordial Immortal Eye. After practicing for a while, he could faintly see a trace of strange blue light in his eyes.


    Gradually, Fang Chen felt the surrounding spiritual energy be extremely friendly, and he felt that it would be very simple to manipte it.


    "The Primordial Immortal Eye enhances the power of the soul, while the Radiant Divine Eyes enhances affinity with the Five Elements. Although the effects are different, both are exceptional techniques."


    Suddenly, the voice of Little Cow Dung came from outside. "Master, someone is here to visit."


    Fang Chen walked out of the room and saw Immortal Void Rush standing not too far away.


    Fang Chen sped his fist and respectfully called out, "Senior Void Rush."


    Little Cow Dung was taken aback. His master had called the visitor "senior," so her status had to be prestigious. Therefore, Little Cow Dung hurriedly copied Fang Chen.


    Senior Void Rush nodded lightly. "Let''s talk outside."


    "Yes."


    Leading Fang Chen away from the room, Immortal Void Rush casually asked, "Is it true about the whereabouts of the Kunlong Battle General?"


    Fang Chen nodded with a smile. "Absolutely true."


    A hint of curiosity shed in Senior Void Rush''s eyes. The esteemed Kunlong Battle General, a Nascent Soul powerhouse, had unexpectedly suffered losses at the hands of a junior, twice at that. She was very curious as to how Fang Chen came to know about the whereabouts of Kunlong Battle General.


    Immortal Void Rush knew that Fang Chen wouldn''t let it out even if she asked, so she didn''t bother to do that. She thought for a moment and nodded lightly. "If we can capture Kunlong Battle General, you''ll once again have a great achievement."


    "Senior Void Rush, have you heard of the Azure Dragon Battle General?" Fang Chen asked.


    Senior Void Rush frowned slightly, her face showing an unprecedented seriousness as she stared at Fang Chen. "The Azure Dragon Battle General? Where did you hear that name?"


    Instead of answering, Fang Chen asked back, "Is the Azure Dragon Battle General very powerful? How does hepare to the Kunlong Battle General?"


    "Kunlong''s methods are not simple, but no matter how extraordinary, he is only in the early-stage Nascent Soul Realm, with cultivation simr to ours. He can be considered formidable among his peers," Immortal Void Rush said, raising a spiritual energy barrier. "However, Azure Dragon Battle General is different. He is one of the Four Saint Battle Generals of the Spirit Blood Sect, and he''s at thete stage Nascent Soul Realm. Thest time he appeared, an untold amount of casualties arose in the Mountain and Sea Region due to him. Several Nascent Soul Realm cultivators even died."


    Perhaps realizing that Fang Chen didn''t know much about the Mountain and Sea Region, she borated, "The Mountain and Sea Region is more than ten timesrger than the Hidden Cloud Region. Not only are therete-stage Nascent Soul Realm cultivators there, but there are alsote-stage Nascent Soul Realm cultivators who are at the cusp of breaking through to the middle three realms."


    Fang Chen was shocked. The strength of the Azure Dragon Battle General was so formidable! He was actually at thete-stage Nascent Soul Realm!


    Fang Chen''s thoughts stirred. <i>If that''s the case, the sword intent Senior Huang left may not necessarily be able to harm the Azure Dragon Battle General.</i>


    The Spirit Blood Sect already knew that he had a sword intent on him that could harm Nascent Soul Ream cultivators. If the Azure Dragon Battle General came looking for him, he would naturally be prepared for this.


    A fully preparedte-stage Nascent Soul Realm cultivator....


    If Fang Chen was at the early-stage Nascent Soul Realm at the very least, he would''ve been confident in his ability to go up against an opponent of that caliber, but with his current cultivation realm, he couldn''t even scratch his opponent.


    "The identities of the Four Saint Battle Generals of the Spirit Blood Sect are very mysterious, and they rarely take action. However, whenever there is a tragic event with heavy casualties, their shadows can almost always be found. Their strength allows them to easily dominate many fourth-tier empires. They''re second only to the Spirit Monarch-level experts of the Spirit Blood Sect," Senior Void Rush said with a grave expression.


    She looked at Fang Chen and continued, "If you have any clues about the Four Saint Battle Generals, remember not to investigate alone. It will only bring you disaster."


    "I understand." Fang Chen nodded lightly, then nced in the direction of the bamboo building. "Senior Void Rush, may this disciple of mine stay at the Purple Pole Dao Academy to cultivate?"


    Senior Void Rush pondered for a moment before nodding slowly. "Since you''ve asked, he can stay."


    Fang Chen bowed respectfully. "Thank you."


    Three days passed in the blink of an eye. During these three days, Fang Chen''s divine soul was almost always outside.


    Through various means of investigation, starting from Yun Tiancheng and Mu Zhaohe as the sources, he found more than a dozen Spirit Blood Sect cultivators. Unfortunately, they were all small fries. Given more time, he might have been able to trace them back to bigger fish. However, time was running out.


    He needed to leave before the Azure Dragon Battle General arrived in the Azure Cloud Empire. This was not only for his own safety but also for the safety of Immortal Void Rush and the others.


    ***


    Immortal Void Rush looked at the list in her hand, her brows scrunched up. "How reliable is this list?"


    <i>Fang Chen had clearly been in the Purple Pole Dao Academy all this time and hadn''t even stepped out. How the hell did he obtain this list? </i>


    The list even included the two chief disciples of the Profound Yellow Pce, which made her suspect whether Fang Chen had inscribed their names because of his personal grudges against them.


    "Elder, you can secretly keep an eye on them. Besides, the Azure Dragon Battle General mighte to the Azure Cloud Empire. I hope you will be prepared, Senior Void Rush," Fang Chen said.


    "Azure Dragon Battle General ising to the Azure Cloud Empire? Did you ask me about him a few days ago because of this?" Senior Void Rush''s expression froze slightly. Then, a hint of confusion appeared in her eyes. "There shouldn''t be anything in the Hidden Cloud Region that would catch the Azure Dragon Battle General''s eyes. While the Kunlong Battle General''s n had failed, it doesn''t warrant the personal intervention of the Azure Dragon Battle General. If he arrives any time soon, he''ll be taking a significant risk. After all, how could they be so sure that the Killing Spiritual Division hasn''t arranged for ate-stage Nascent Soul Realm cultivator to secretly oversee the region?"


    Fang Chen smiled helplessly. "I heard he''sing to kill me."


    Senior Void Rush looked puzzled. "Kill... you?"


    Fang Chen also felt that the Four Saint Battle Generals didn''t need to personallye to kill him, but... what if the other party was the senior brother of Jue Wudi and the patriarch of the Heavenly Southern Sect? In that case, everything would make sense. Kunlong Battle General had directly mentioned that Jue Wudi''s senior brother wouldn''t let him off. To top it all off, the moment he arrived at the Azure Cloud Empire, Mu Zhaohe and Yun Tiancheng deliberately lured him out. This exined a lot of things.


    "Senior Void Rush, I''ll take my leave. If anyonees asking about me, please tell them the truth," said Fang Chen, sping his fist in salute.


    With that, Fang Chen left.


    As he was about to leave, he went to see Fang Jue and Dongfang Haojie, giving Fang Jue some low-grade spirit stones, part of which was for helping to take care of Little Cow Dung. When Little Cow Dung started his cultivation, he would naturally need to use the spirit stones.


    During that period, the imperial capital of the Azure Cloud Empire was bustling with activity. Whenever cultivators conversed, they would mention the resurrected Grand Qian sword cultivator, Fang Chen, who defeated the two Chief Disciples of the Profound Yellow Pce. This news had already spread throughout the imperial capital, and even cultivators from other regions had heard of it. Some even went to the Purple Pole Dao Academy to visit Fang Chen but were informed that he had already left.


    "He''s gone... looks like we''re a step toote," a young man dressed like a scion of a prestigious family sat in a lively teahouse, listening to the animated descriptions of Yun Tiancheng''s battle with Fang Chen that day.


    Opposite the young man in white sat a young girl. She spoke softly, "There''s news from the Purple Pole Dao Academy that Fang Chen left seven days ago. If we knew which direction he headed, we might''ve been able to catch up with him. Unfortunately, no one saw him leave that day, and our people couldn''t determine where he went."


    "Inform them to keep an eye on every single road out there. My two junior brothers must not die in vain," the young man in white said with a faint smile.


    The girl nodded gently and lit a Transmission Talisman, letting it slowly burn.

 Chapter 484: Twilight Eye

    <h4>Chapter 484: Twilight Eye</h4>


    In the vast sea, a towering ship, hundreds of feet high, plowed through the waves at incredible speed, sailing across the endless ocean.


    The ship had around a hundred floors, each floor dotted with numerous quiet rooms. These rooms were equipped with small gathering spirit formations, providing cultivators a ce for secluded cultivation.


    The quiet rooms were divided into three levels. Heaven, Earth, and Human. The Heaven-level rooms gathered extremely dense spiritual energy, but their prices were sky-high.


    This ship belonged to a major sect and was crossing the Mountain and Sea Region. The journey was estimated to take at least five years.


    Fortunately, Fang Chen''s cultivation of the Primordial Evil Eye and the Radiant Divine Eyes didn''t require spiritual energy. The cultivation of his eye techniques mainly depended on his innate talent andprehension. The density of spiritual energy had no direct corrtion with the speed of his cultivation.


    So, he chose a Human-level room, where he only needed to spend one low-grade spirit stone per day.


    Considering the cost of the ship and various misceneous expenses, this journey only required him to pay three thousand low-grade spirit stones.


    Fang Chen found it quite cost-effective. Although three thousand low-grade spirit stones could buy a yellow rank high-grade treasure, it also saved him several years of time. During these five years, he wouldn''t have to travel on his own, allowing him to focus on cultivation. For cultivators, saved time equated to an extended lifespan.


    The ship''s destination was the third-tier empire, Taichu. There, they would find a teleportation array that would take them to the next destination.


    That was the route Xia Ji took.


    If they weren''t met with any unexpected events, Fang Chen would find himself at the legendary first-tier Central Continent Empire a little over ten yearster.


    The identity of the sect that owned the ship promised its passengers a smooth sailing journey without many obstacles.


    No matter which region of the sea they passed through, no reckless troublemakers were daring enough to obstruct their way.


    It had been over three months since they set off.


    In just three short months, Fang Chen''s Radiant Divine Eyes had made significant progress. The Radiant Divine Eyes was divided into four realms. Now, he had firmly entered the first realm, the same realm as where Yun Tiancheng reached.


    In this realm, his control over the Five Elements'' power had increased by more than a hundredfold. If Yun Tiancheng could easily condense four hundred-foot-tall golden-armored warriors, Fang Chen could easily condense six without much trouble given his foundation.


    Once Fang Chen''s cultivation reached thete-stage Foundation Building Realm, simr to Yun Tiancheng, he might easily condense more than ten golden-armored warriors.


    Even Golden Core Realm cultivators would be crushed facing such absolute strength.


    Fang Chen frowned. "Little Mirror, why is the cultivation method for the Radiant Divine Eyes so strange? Do I still need spirit materials for the second realm cultivation? What is Twilight Eye?"


    "Brother, that will cost you one thousand low-grade spirit stones," Little Zhou replied.


    Fang Chen began to haggle with Little Mirror until he reduced the price to five hundred low-grade spirit stones. After giving Little Zhou five hundred low-grade spirit stones, it revealed detailed information about Twilight Eye.


    "In ancient times, there was a demonic n named "Twilight," where sunlight wouldpletely disappear, turning into eternal night. Countless creatures couldn''t survive without sunlight, and eventually, Twilight was ughtered by various cultivators. The more they killed, the fewer the Twilight n became until they werepletely extinct, and no cultivator has discovered their traces since then."


    "An ancient demonic n? Where should I go to find the Twilight Eye?"


    Fang Chen looked puzzled and asked, "When Twilight was besieged by various cultivators, why didn''t the demonic n''s patriarch intervene?"


    "The demonic n led the charge against Twilight. Losing sunlight would cause a disruption in the spiritual bnce of heaven and earth. It would not only harm mortals but also cultivators. To prevent a major conflict between the demonic n and human cultivators, a demonic n patriarch proposed the extinction of Twilight to eliminate future troubles," Little Zhou exined.


    Fang Chen pondered for a moment. "Are there any surviving members of the Twilight n now? Or is there a way to obtain the Twilight Eye?"


    "That... would likely require millions of low-grade spirit stones to find out," Little Zhou said awkwardly.


    Mirror of the Universe knew that Fang Chen couldn''te up with such a sum of spirit stones in a short time. However, that was the rule; as a spirit artifact, it couldn''t circumvent it.


    Fang Chen sighed softly. "What a pity. It seems that the first realm of the Radiant Divine Eyes is the limit. It''s almost impossible to advance to the second realm in this era,"


    Fortunately, the Radiant Divine Eyes had already demonstrated its effectiveness. Even though it was only the first realm, it greatly boosted Fang Chen''s strength. He no longer needed to rely on Little Sword for everything, including the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture.


    The Radiant Divine Eyes did not only help with manipting the five elements; any technique that required the power of the five elements would be greatly enhanced in Fang Chen''s hands from now on.


    <i>The Radiant Divine Eyes is divided into realms and functions more like pure technique. On the other hand, the Primordial Evil Eye has no realm divisions and mainly enhances the soul, functioning more like a cultivation method,</i> Fang Chen thought to himself.


    Apart from enhancing the soul, the Primordial Evil Eye had some less noticeable benefits.


    For example, when casting techniques, just opening the Primordial Evil Eye made the process extremely smooth. Also, after opening the Primordial Evil Eye, he didn''t need to project his divine soul out of his body to see many things that ordinary cultivators can''t see, such as ws in formations or the flow of spiritual energy between heaven and earth.


    Those things manifested as lines that are vividly disyed before Feng Chen''s eyes. Although these effects may not seem as directly effective as the Radiant Divine Eyes, the Radiant Divine Eyes couldn¡¯t bepared to the Primordial Evil Eye.


    Feng Chen was curious. "I wonder who that female cultivator really is to be able to casually impart me with a technique like that. Could she really be someone rted to Ancestor Fang Tingyuan?"


    Suddenly, the Mirror of the Universe reminded him, "Little brother, you''re running low on low-grade spirit stones. Shouldn''t you think of ways to earn some?"


    Even Little Sword chimed in, "Little Chen, the old thing is right this time,"


    Feng Chen nced at his storage ring. Originally, he had twenty thousand low-grade spirit stones, but he gave some to Fang Jue and also paid for the ship. Now, he had around thirteen thousand left. Indeed, he wasn¡¯t left with much.


    Judging by Little Sword''s appetite, he would need at least another two to three hundred thousand low-grade spirit stones to appease its hunger. Not to mention Mirror of the Universe; if he had enough spirit stones, it would be akin to a bug-level existence. It was extremely useful for both finding people and objects. Feng Chen faintly believed that it truly came from the Immortal Realm and was an immortal artifact.


    "There aren''t many ways to make money these days.... I can only make talismans if I wish to earn spirit stones."


    The True Fire Talisman, Illusion Spirit Talisman, and Binding Talisman... Even though they were only mid-grade, yellow-rank talismans and couldn¡¯t be priced too high, he could get a good enough price if he made a bunch of them.


    Each one could fetch two or three hundred low-grade spirit stones, and they would only cost a tenth of that to make. The only problem was that he would need to use quite a bit of time to make them.


    During the next few months, Fang Chen closed himself off and used whatever materials he had left to craft talismans. However, he didn''t make Illusionary Spirit Talismans or Binding Talismans. He made True Fire Talismans instead.


    True Fire Talismans required the use of fire elemental energy, so Fang Chen doubled his crating speed with the support of the Radiant Divine Eye.


    "A True Fire Talisman is priced at two hundred low-grade spirit stones each. I have over a hundred and sixty of them here. Selling them all can bring in around thirty thousand spirit stones. Fang Chen calcted his earnings, feeling very satisfied.


    He got up and left the room, preparing to go to the trading area on the ship to sell True Fire Talismans.

 Chapter 485: Thief

    <h4>Chapter 485: Thief</h4>


    The ship was bustling as not every cultivator spent their days in their chambers practicing. After all, the chambers required daily payment. Not to mention that the cultivators who had reached a bottleneck in their cultivation tended to wander around the ship during the day and sit on the deck at night rather than spend their time holed up in a chamber, wasting spirit stones.


    The ship was like a small city, equipped with various facilities. It even included dedicated sparring grounds.


    Fang Chen wore a silver mask as he walked toward the shop selling spiritual materials. Other cultivators on the way didn''t pay much attention to him. Cultivators wore all sorts of attires, and Fang Chen''s was already considered quite low-key.


    The trading area resembled a bustling street, with many cultivators setting up stalls to sell their goods.


    Fang Chen scanned the area and chose a shop named "Dragon Soaring Pavilion." This shop had quite a few customersing and going, and he felt that they might be able to buy his True Fire Talismans.


    Suddenly, a dark, swaying figure appeared in front of Fang Chen. The cultivator to whom the figure belonged seemed to be unsteady, and he was stumbling toward Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen easily sidestepped the man, causing him to fall t on the floor, cutting a sorry figure.


    Fang Chen paid no mind and continued toward the shop. However, the cultivator angrily muttered, "Blind fool."


    Fang Chen paused for a moment, then turned around. "Are you talking to me?"


    The cultivator red at Fang Chen. "Yeah, what''s it to you?"


    "Did I offend you in any way?" Fang Chen replied calmly.


    ¡°Brother, pleasee inside.¡±


    Suddenly, a young man stepped out from Dragon Soaring Pavilion with a smile, greeting Fang Chen. Then, he turned to the cultivator and said lightly, "I''ve told you many times, don''t stir up trouble here in the Dragon Soaring Pavilion. Can''t you remember? Do you want me to remind you again who¡¯s my backer?"


    The cultivator immediately changed his demeanor, smiling awkwardly as he bowed and turned to leave. "It turns out to be Manager Che. I apologize for any misunderstanding with this gentleman just now. It''s nothing serious. I''ll take my leave first."


    However, the next moment, his expression turned incredibly sinister.


    Fang Chen looked at the young man. "Manager Che?"


    "I''m Che Yuxuan from Dragon Soaring Pavilion, serving as a humble manager here. If you want to do some business, my dear guest, pleasee inside," Che Yuxuan said with a smile.


    "Manager Che, who was that earlier? What is he trying to do?" Fang Chen asked casually as he followed Che Yuxuan into Dragon Soaring Pavilion.


    "You don''t need to worry too much, sir. That person just wanted to gain some benefits from you. However... it''s also better if you don''t get into a dispute with him. He''s not alone," Che Yuxuan replied. "We have all sorts of people here, but as long as you know how to be tolerant, there won''t be much trouble."


    Fang Chen was a little surprised, lifting his eyebrows. So that cultivator might have been a pickpocket? ording to Che Yuxuan, he had people with him.


    "Does the ship owner not intervene?" Fang Chen smiled. "It wouldn''t be good if someone caused trouble for them after all, considering we''re all guests on this ship."


    Chu Yuxuan smiled faintly. "Exactly, they are also guests on the ship, so why would the ship owner intervene?"


    He seemed unwilling to dwell on the topic further and quickly changed the subject, asking Fang Chen what he wanted to buy.


    "Do you want to buy some medicine or spiritual materials?" Che Yuxuan asked.


    "Do you have materials for making talismans?" Fang Chen asked casually.


    "Talismans?" Che Yuxuan''s eyes lit up slightly, and his tone improved, "Are you a talisman maker?"


    "I wouldn''t say I''m proficient in this field. I know a thing or two at best," Fang Chen replied casually.


    "You are modest. Those who have time to delve into this field are all remarkable individuals," Che Yuxuan ttered without making it too obvious.


    He then led Fang Chen to the second floor of the Dragon Soaring Pavilion and instructed his subordinates to bring the talisman materials to the room for Fang Chen to choose.


    "All the talisman materials we have are right here. We rarely run into Talisman Masters. We may not encounter one in a decade or two, so we don''t keep too many materials on hand. I wonder if these materials meet your standards?" Che Yuxuan asked with a smile.


    In front of Fang Chen were several types of yellow talisman paper, talisman brushes, and cinnabar, ranging from low to mid-grade materials in the yellow rank.


    Fang Chen chose about three hundred sheets of yellow rank mid-grade talisman paper, six talisman brushes, and three bottles of cinnabar. All the talisman materials were consumables, including the talisman brushes.


    Seeing Fang Chen sweep away all the mid-grade, yellow-rank materials, Che Yuxuan couldn''t help but show a hint of surprise in his eyes.


    He became more certain that Fang Chen was just being modest earlier. If he didn''t have a high level of confidence in his ability to inscribe talismans, why would he buy such arge batch of materials?


    Chu Yuxuan smiled faintly. "Sir, these materials will set you back five thousand two hundred low-grade spirit stones. I can take the liberty to waive the two hundred and odd stones to make it an even number, how about that?"


    "Five thousand two hundred?" Fang Chen was slightly taken aback, and his brows furrowed imperceptibly. "That''s a bit too expensive."


    Che Yuxuan didn''t mind and chuckled. "We''re at sea, so prices naturally go up. If we were onnd, these materials would only sell for three thousand."


    Fang Chen looked puzzled. "So, does that mean the prices of talismans will also rise?"


    "Naturally. We still have several years before reaching our destination. Although we will make several stops along the way, time is tight. If someone wants to replenish their inventory but doesn''t have time to purchase them, any spiritual materials along the way will see a price increase," Che Yuxuan exined. He then asked with anticipation, "Do you have talismans for sale?"


    Fang Chen took out a True Fire Talisman and handed it to Che Yuxuan. "Manager Che, take a look at this True Fire Talisman. How much would you buy it for?"


    Che Yuxuan''s face showed a touch of seriousness as he took the talisman and examined it carefully. "Is this a mid-grade, yellow-rank True Fire Talisman?"


    "The spiritual power is thick and rich, and the strokes are vigorous and powerful. The quality of this True Fire Talisman is not low," Che Yuxuan remarked, growing more astonished as he inspected it further. He had never seen a True Fire Talisman of such high quality before. No matter how he looked at it, it seemed perfectly crafted, as if the maker was extremely proficient in this craft.


    The better the quality, the stronger the power it could unleash.


    "Manager Che, could you give an estimate?" Fang Chen asked with a faint smile.


    "If this were onnd, a True Fire Talisman of this caliber would fetch at least two hundred and eighty low-grade spirit stones, and that''s just our purchasing price. Given that we''re at sea now, the price could inte by about thirty percent," Che Yuxuan considered before saying, "The Dragon Soaring Pavillion can take this True Fire Talisman for three hundred and forty low-grade spirit stones."


    Fang Chen chuckled. "That''s a bit low."


    Che Yuxuan smiled slightly. "We need to leave some profit margin. We are businessmen after all."


    "Let''s make it an even number, three hundred and fifty. I''ll sell all the True Fire Talismans I have on me to your Dragon Soaring Pavilion," Fang Chen proposed.


    Che Yuxuan pondered for a moment, then nodded softly. "Alright, I''ll take a small loss to nurture the rapport between us. I¡¯ll make it a nice even number. How many True Fire Talismans do you have?"


    "Not many, just over a hundred and sixty," Fang Chen replied.


    Che Yuxuan nodded, but then his body suddenly stiffened, and he looked at Fang Chen in astonishment. "How many?!"

 Chapter 486: A Fine of Five Thousand. Young Master, Please Accept Them

    <h4>Chapter 486: A Fine of Five Thousand. Young Master, Please ept Them</h4>


    "Over a hundred and sixty..." Fang Chen repeated. "Will there be any trouble?"


    Che Yuxuan quickly waved his hand, his expression still rife with surprise. "Trouble? No, there won''t be any trouble at all. I''m just a bit shocked that you have over a hundred and sixty True Fire Talismans...."


    In his heart, he wondered, how many years did it take to umte those talismans?


    Ten years?


    Twenty years?


    In his view, crafting talismans was already a very difficult task, requiring a high control of spiritual energy. Add to that the need for an inheritance of talisman techniques and the time needed for research and practice, and naturally, there were few who could achieve sess in this field.


    "Please wait here, young master. This deal is quite big, so I need to go and get the owner to handle it," Che Yuxuan exined before getting up and leaving.


    Fang Chen didn''t have to wait long. In about fifteen minutes, Che Yuxuan returned, following an elderly man into the room.


    The old man greeted Fang Chen with sped hands and a smile. "Customer, I heard there are True Fire Talismans for sale?"


    Fang Chen smiled and nodded.


    The rest of the transaction was straightforward. It was a simple trade anyway. After deducting the five thousand low-grade spirit stones for the talisman materials, there were still over fifty thousand low-grade spirit stones left. The total amount of spirit stones Fang Chen had increased from thirteen thousand to sixty-three thousand, which was quite a substantial amount.


    Che Yuxuan was in a good mood. He''d naturally earn himself a bit ofmission on this deal too. He escorted Fang Chen all the way to the door, and by now, the two had already be like brothers.


    "Brother, if there''s another opportunity like this in the future, remember toe find me," Che Yuxuan warmly said.


    ¡°Alright, alright,¡± said Fang Chen, nodding with a smile as he turned to leave.


    On his way back to his chamber, Fang Chen noticed that the same cultivator from before had been following him discreetly. He didn''t pay it much heed. However, not long after, several figures dashed toward him from the crowd, closing in on him.


    These individuals clearly had their roles assigned, blocking off his pathpletely. Fang Chen had nowhere to hide.


    Not far away, in a teahouse, several cultivators were sitting. One of them nced through the window at Fang Chen and said with a faint smile, "Are you sure this person only stays in a Human-level room?"


    "Boss, our people saw himing out of the Human-level room. He''s been in seclusion there for several months. Staying in such a chamber definitely means he doesn''t have an impressive background," one person said in a low voice.


    "That''s good to hear."


    The group fell silent, observing Fang Chen with ambiguous smiles.


    Seeing several figures closing in on him, Fang Chen let out a soft sigh. He grabbed the nearest person and delivered a p to his face.


    There was an audible sound of bones cracking when Fang Chen''s palmnded on his face. Half of the man''s face copsed, and blood flowed from his seven orifices, leaving him with half a breath.


    The other figures seemed surprised that Fang Chen chose to initiate the fight. They stood there in shock, but theirck of movement didn''t mean Fang Chen wouldn''t deal with them.


    Feeling like they had taken him for a pushover, Fang Chen wanted to see what kind of backing those pickpockets had.


    He grabbed another person and repeated the action, knocking him to the floor with a p. The remaining ones tried to escape, but they were no match for Fang Chen''s speed, and he knocked them down one by one.


    The injuries of the several individuals were almost identical, with half of their cheeks broken and blood flowing from their seven orifices. As soon as this happened, the surrounding cultivators immediately showed expressions of shock, stepping back and looking at Fang Chen with surprise.


    There was a rule on the ship that private fights were not allowed. If one really wanted to fight, they had to go to the designated fighting arena. Viting this rule meant a fine! If one couldn''t pay the fine, they would be thrown off the ship.


    "Is this guy crazy? Why did he suddenly attack someone?"


    "Shh, keep your voice down. Don''t offend anyone for no reason. The ones he hit are not easy to deal with."


    "Hmm? What''s going on?"


    Whispers and murmurs arose around, with some people recognizing the identity of the knocked-down cultivator as special. Some couldn''t help but feel a sense of schadenfreude, as many cultivators on the ship had been cheated by this group of people before. They had refrained from causing trouble because they feared the background of this group, but now seeing them face a tough situation brought some satisfaction to the onlookers.


    In the teahouse, the several cultivators looked at each other. The leader was shocked at what was happening. Shortlyter, he spoke coldly. "Didn''t they say he isn¡¯t anyone important? How dare he act like this?"


    His subordinates smiled bitterly. "Boss, we don''t know either...."


    The leader fell silent for a moment, then said calmly, "No matter, the young master has already bribed quite a few people. Since this cultivator dared to act like this, let''s see if he can afford the fine."


    As he finished speaking, a group of cultivators made their way through the crowd and approached Fang Chen.


    The cultivator in the lead was a middle-aged man dressed in a profound ck robe. He had a goatee.


    He nced at the injured cultivators on the ground, then frowned at Fang Chen. "Young master, did you do this to them?"


    Fang Chen nodded. He had seen those guys once when he boarded the ship; they were the enforcers of the ship''s order and underlings of the ship owner.


    "You should know that private fights are not allowed here," the middle-aged man said coldly.


    "Yes, there''s a fine for private fights," Fang Chen nodded. "Three hundred for injuring someone, one thousand for causing death."


    The middle-aged man''s face darkened. "Even so, you did it still?"


    Fang Chen smiled and suddenly crushed the skull of the cultivator in front of him. He then kicked and crushed the heads of the others.


    Among the crowd, the cultivator who had the initial conflict with Fang Chen turned pale, his body dripping with cold sweat. Fortunately, he hadn''t made a move earlier! Otherwise, he might have been one of those who were killed!


    Fang Chen counted, "One, two, three, four, five.... Five people, five thousand. Here, take it."


    He then handed over five thousand low-grade spirit stones to the middle-aged man, then turned and left.


    The crowd was stunned, and they stared at Fang Chen in disbelief.


    <i>Who the hell is this guy?!</i>


    Even though he knew he would be fined, he still had the guts to kill five cultivators right before the eyes of the ship''s enforcers. That wasn¡¯t all! He even paid a fine of five thousand low-grade spirit stones like it was nothing!


    <i>He... He would be able to buy a high-grade, yellow-rank treasure with so many spirit stones! Even a Golden Core Realm cultivator wouldn''t dare to waste spirit stones like this, right!? </i>


    The crowd looked at Fang Chen''s departing figure, their eyes filled with curiosity and fear.


    As Fang Chen disappeared from view, the middle-aged man finally reacted, staring nkly at the pile of spirit stones in front of him with a strange expression. Then, he nced toward the tea house and instructed his subordinates, "Clean up the bodies."


    With that, he turned and left with the spirit stones, not bothering to confront Fang Chen.


    Inside the tea house, the leader of those criminals turned extremely grim. His fists were clenched tightly, and even the knuckles were turning white.


    "He has a lot of guts, daring to kill our men!"


    "We must deal with him! He can casually fork out five thousand pieces of low-grade spirit stones! He must have even more!"


    "But... we seem unable to gauge his cultivation level...."


    "Just a hidden treasure to conceal his aura. He''s living in a Human-level room. How high can his cultivation level be? Is he at the peak of the Foundation Building Realm? It doesn¡¯t matter though. With the young master, what is there to fear?!"


    Everyone was discussing in whispers.


    Their leader coldly interrupted, "Shut up!"


    Everyone immediately zipped it.


    Through the window, the leading cultivator stared at Fang Chen''s departing figure with a gloomy expression. After a moment, he spoke faintly, "I will personally report this matter to the young master. During this period, keep a close eye on him. Don''t ck off!"

 Chapter 487: Kunlong Battle General’s Physical Body is Gone?

    <h4>Chapter 487: Kunlong Battle General¡¯s Physical Body is Gone?</h4>


    Upon returning to his chamber, Fang Chen noticed several cultivators following him. Even when he went inside and shut the door, those cultivators stayed nearby, keeping an eye on him.


    As expected, these cultivators were associated with the group of people he had dealt with earlier, all belonging to a gang of pickpockets. Che Yuxuan had dodged this topic when he spoke with him, indicating there was likely some connection between these cultivators and the ship''s owner.


    "It''s still more than four years until we reach Taichu. Being watched by thieves all day isn''t ideal," Fang Chen muttered to himself as his divine soul phased through various chambers.


    All the rooms below the sixtieth level were considered Human-level rooms, while those from the sixty-first to the nieth belonged to the Earth level. The top ten levels were Heaven-level rooms, with around twenty rooms in total.


    After scanning through the Human-level and Earth-level areas in an instant, Fang Chen''s divine soul finally arrived at the Heaven-level area. In a certain chamber, he finally spotted his target.


    The Heaven-level room was filled with dense spiritual energy, ten times more than the Human-level rooms. Sitting calmly in the room was a young man with a faint expression.


    The young man''s aura clearly indicated he was at the early stage of the Golden Core Realm. On either side of him sat two female cultivators who seemed eager to throw themselves on him.


    Kneeling in front of the young man was a Foundation Building Realm cultivator. The cultivator''s head was lowered fearfully.


    The young man suddenly spoke. "Old Wang, how many years have you been following me?"


    The Foundation Building Realm cultivator trembled slightly, hastily replying, "Young Master, it has been thirty-eight years."


    "It¡¯s been so long..." The young man sighed with some emotion. "You''ve been following me for thirty-eight years, and yet you haven''t still understand this lord''s temperament?"


    Fear crept into the Foundation Building Realm cultivator''s eyes, cold sweat breaking out as he didn''t know how to respond.


    "You said someone killed my men. If you return without bringing this person''s head to me, how can I trust you with leading the team in the future?" The young man sighed lightly. "Many people look down on our profession, but in reality, this lord was able to advance to the Golden Core Realm by tirelessly seeking cultivation resources over the years.


    "It''s through this continuous effort that I could condense my Golden Core. This process wasn¡¯t always smooth sailing; there are troublesome issues to deal with. How should we solve them? I have my experience. I¡¯ll kill and keep killing until they tremble in fear."


    Pausing for a moment, he continued, "In doing so, they will understand not to provoke us, and they''lle to know what consequences they''ll face if they do. Only then can our livelihood be stable and resilient, standing firm against the winds. Can''t you grasp this reasoning?"


    The Foundation Building Realm cultivator hurriedly responded. "Young Master, I understand now. I will definitely bring this person''s head and show the others what fate awaits those who oppose us, reiming our lost dignity!"


    The young man chuckled softly. "You''re notpletely useless after all. I heard this person paid a fine of five thousand low-grade spirit stones without batting an eyelid? It seems his quite wealthy."


    "The ship will dock to resupply in a month. Find a way to get him to the shore and deal with him there," the young man instructed.


    The Foundation Building Realm cultivator asked cautiously, "Master, what if he doesn''te ashore and continues hiding in the cabin?"


    The young man frowned slightly. "Then just break into the cabin and kill him. Do I need to teach you that?"


    "But what about the owner..." the Foundation Building Realm cultivator hesitated.


    "They''ll turn a blind eye as long as you keep it clean and don''t make a scene." The young man chuckled lightly. "As long as everyone doesn''t make a fuss, they won¡¯t care too much."


    "I understand," replied the Foundation Building Realm cultivator, eyes flickering.


    He then bowed respectfully before leaving the cabin.


    Frowning, Fang Chen muttered to himself, "Break into the cabin and kill me? It seems the Golden Core Realm cultivator has deep ties. If the ship''s owner can tolerate stuff like that, it indicates a profound web of interests between the two parties."


    Just as the cultivator left, the cabin door was suddenly pushed open again, and a carefree young man walked in, smiling at the young man. "Chen Sheng, it''s time for this month''s tribute, isn''t it?"


    The young man''s face lit up with a warm smile. "Fellow Cultivator Zhou, the spirit stones are ready."


    With a wave of his sleeve, a thousand low-grade spirit stones appeared in front of him.


    Greed flickered in Zhou''s eyes as he quickly stored the spirit stones in his storage ring.


    "By the way, I heard you messed with someone troublesome. It''s best to handle this cleanly, or it will be hard for me to exin to my uncle," the youth who came said casually before leaving.


    After he left, Chen Sheng''s smile disappeared, reced by a grim expression.


    "Master, this Qi Refining Realm cultivator is so arrogant, daring to address you directly by name," a female cultivator said, looking somewhat annoyed.


    Chen Sheng replied calmly, "It''s because he has a powerful uncle. If we want to continue our livelihood here, we have to maintain good rtions through him."


    Pausing for a moment, he continued, "Have you searched everywhere for the person we were instructed to find? Is he not on this ship?"


    The other female cultivator quickly replied, "Master, we''ve searched everywhere for several months, but we still haven''t seen that person. However, many cultivators are using disguises, making it difficult to find them based on appearance alone. How about you personally intervene and have them remove their disguises?"


    Chen Sheng sneered. "Do you even know who this person is? He kills Golden Core Realm cultivators like chickens. Why would I seek death by intervening personally? You just need to investigate discreetly. If you can''t find him, that''s even better. I just want to peacefully earn myself a bit of spirit stones here. I don''t want to get myself entangled in any trouble."


    The female cultivator''s expression turned serious, and she quickly lowered her head. "I understand."


    "They''re looking for someone?" Fang Chen pondered.


    It seemed that the Golden Core Realm cultivator had someone behind him. With that in mind, Fang Chen followed the cultivator named Zhou to another Heaven-level room.


    Zhou respectfully handed over a thousand low-grade spirit stones to the middle-aged man in a blue robe. "Uncle, this is Chen Sheng''s tribute for this month."


    The middle-aged man in the blue robe nced lightly and stored the spirit stones in his storage ring, leaving fifty low-grade spirit stones for the youngster. "I heard that Chen Sheng had five subordinates killed today?" the middle-aged man in the blue robe asked casually.


    Cultivator Zhou, with a gleeful expression, replied, "Yes, the killer resides in a Human-level room. Didn''t expect him to be so wealthy, even paying a fine of five thousand spirit stones."


    "Next time you see Chen Sheng, remember to tell him not to make too much noise. Otherwise, I won''t be able to exin to the boss. If it damages the boss'' reputation, the losses would be too much for him to bear," the middle-aged man in the blue robe added.


    Cultivator Zhou quickly nodded, then asked in confusion, "Uncle, actually, we can handle this business ourselves. Why do we need to involve others?"


    "Chen Sheng''s background is a bitplicated. Since the boss is turning a blind eye, let''s not think too much about it. Just collect the tribute every month," the middle-aged man in the blue robe said, waving his hand to dismiss Zhou.


    "One thousand low-grade spirit stones per month, that''s at least three thousand six hundred spirit stones a year. Truly the best way to earn without investment," Fang Chen sighed with some emotion.


    At the same time, he kept in mind what the middle-aged man in the blue robe had said about Chen Sheng''splicated background.


    After a while, Fang Chen withdrew his spiritual sense.


    However, his attention was caught by a conversation among the Killing Spiritual Division members.


    <i>Good news! Heard that the Kunlong Battle General was beaten to pieces by several experts from our Killing Spiritual Division, only his Nascent Soul managed to escape!</i>


    <i>I heard about it too. Those fellow cultivators of ours must be feeling proud.</i>


    <i>It''s a pity, if only we could have captured the Nascent Soul as well, letting it escape gives it a chance at survival.</i>


    <i>Kunlong Battle General''s physical body waspletely destroyed?</i>


    A faint smile appeared in Fang Chen''s eyes. After several months, that was the best news he had heard.

 Chapter 488 The Shattered Dragon Bone Heavenly Lantern

    <h4>Chapter 488 The Shattered Dragon Bone Heavenly Lantern</h4>


    The Kunlong Battle General informed the Azure Dragon Battle General of his whereabouts, attempting to use a borrowed hand to kill him. Meanwhile, Fang Chen also informed the Killing Spiritual Division about the Kunlong Battle General''s whereabouts. Both were trying to use the hands of other people to do dirty work for them, but the result was that Fang Chen remained unharmed on the ship while the Kunlong Battle General''s physical body was destroyed.


    Although he didn''t die, for a Nascent Soul Realm expert to lose their physical body would definitely be quite painful. He probably wouldn''t cause trouble for a long time.


    "It wasn''t a waste to spend those twenty thousand low-grade spirit stones," Fang Chen muttered to himself, then took out the materials for making True Fire Talismans.


    In the blink of an eye, a month passed. Fang Chen hadn''t taken a single step outside his chamber. The people keeping tabs on him hadn''t left at all as well, and had been watching him outside for an entire month.


    Today, the massive ship was approaching a bustling port with nearly a thousand vessels of all sizes. Many cultivators stood on the deck, their eyes filled with excitement. They had been on the ship for a whole year and could finally dock for resupply. This opportunity was not something ordinary people would miss.


    The voice of Mirror of the Universe suddenly sounded. "Brother, don''t you n to disembark and take a look?"


    Fang Chen''s eyes flickered. "What''s special about this port?"


    The Mirror of the Universe wouldn''t call him to disembark for no reason.


    "In fact, there''s nothing special about this port. It''s mainly because there''s only this one port in the nearby region. Cultivators from all over will stay here, and they might have some good things in their hands. Aren''t you nning to purchase treasures for that brat? Maybe you''ll find a few here," Mirror of the Universe said.


    ¡°Little Chen, what he said makes sense,¡± Little Sword chimed in for once.


    Fang Chen smiled. "I don''t need you guys to tell me. I am nning to disembark."


    Although the Dragon Soaring Pavilion sold treasures, they didn''t have high-grade, yellow-rank treasures. Now that he had more than fifty thousand low-grade spirit stones, the best choice would be to utilize them to increase the power of his Sword Body. Not to mention that those pickpockets were waiting for him to disembark, and Fang Chen didn''t want to disappoint them.


    Outside, the cultivators who had been keeping Fang Chen under surveince finally saw hime out of the room. They quickly became excited. One of them immediately activated a Transmission Talisman, while the others followed Fang Chen closely. Seeing that Fang Chen intended to disembark, their excitement grew.


    Before long, Old Wang, who had been monitoring Fang Chen, arrived with his men. Upon learning that Fang Chen was disembarking, he immediately led his people to follow the crowd off the ship. After a while, Chen Sheng also disembarked with two female cultivators.


    "My storage ring?! Damn thieves, how dare they steal from your grandpa!? Get out here!"


    Just as Fang Chen had disembarked for a while, he heard a roar not far away. A burly man was scanning angrily, his face turning red with anger.


    This was a Foundation Building Realm cultivator, and even someone of his level had their storage ring stolen, indicating how chaotic things were overseas. Simr incidents urred every now and then, with some cultivators seemingly experienced enough to have prepared and hidden their valuable items.


    Fang Chen strolled around the port for the duration of a pot of tea, encountering four waves of small thieves, some in the Qi Refining Realm and some in Foundation Building Realm. However, they were not associated with Chen Sheng but belonged to another group.


    ¡°They''re acting so recklessly because in a foreign territory, nobody knows anyone''s background...¡± Fang Chen pondered.


    "Everyone,e take a look! We have many valuable treasures here. If you find something useful, you can take it away for a small price," someone was calling out at a stall.


    "The treasures you have are all damaged beyond recognition. Look at this brokenntern, half of it is missing, and even the wick is gone. How dare you ask for five hundred low-grade spirit stones? No matter how thick your face is you can''t be this shameless! And this flying sword, it''s almost just a hilt. Can you even tell if it''s a dagger or a sword? And you have the nerve to ask for three hundred low-grade spirit stones for it?!"


    "Friend, you''re not right in saying that. This Dragon Bone Heavenly Lantern is a high-grade, yellow-rank treasure, with extremely mystical effects. The way to craft it has long been lost. If it weren''t damaged, why would I sell it for only five hundred low-grade spirit stones? Even selling it for three thousand would be normal!"


    Dragon Bone Heavenly Lantern? Fang Chen''s divine soul instantly left his body and arrived at the stall. He saw a broken bronze ancientntern casually ced among a pile of damaged treasures. The bronzentern seemed to have gone through a fierce battle, with half of it shattered and even the wick missing.


    At just one nce, Fang Chen was certain that this Dragon Bone Heavenly Lantern was the one he had obtained from Jue Wudi in the past. After Fang Chen''s physical body died, the Dragon Bone Heavenly Lantern ended up in the hands of Fairy Yu, but now....


    Why was it here?


    Fang Chen''s divine soul returned to his body, and he slowly approached the stall, his expression more grim than ever.


    "I''ll take this Dragon Bone Heavenly Lantern," he said, his face showing unprecedented displeasure.


    The broken Dragon Bone Heavenly Lantern suggested that Fairy Yu may have encountered some danger. No wonder she hasn''t returned for years, not even responding to the Starlight Transmission.


    The stall owner chuckled. "Your insight is remarkable, my friend. The price for this Dragon Bone Heavenly Lantern is five hundred low-grade spirit stones."


    Taking out five hundred low-grade spirit stones, Fang Chen handed them to the owner and casually picked up the Dragon Bone Heavenly Lantern. Rubbing it softly, he asked, "Where does this iteme from, and why is it in such a damaged state?"


    The stall owner smiled and replied, "I don''t know, these are just items I''ve collected along the way. However, this Dragon Bone Heavenly Lantern likelyes from the legendary Central Continent Empire."


    "You''re bluffing. How could a treasure from the Central Continent Empire end up in your hands?" someone interjected.


    The stall owner''s expression turned serious as he nced at the person. "I apologize, but the seller who gave me this item is indeed from the Central Continent Empire."


    "You know sellers from the Central Continent Empire?"


    The skeptical person''s eyes showed a hint of fear, chuckling awkwardly before falling silent.


    "My friend, I''m very interested in thisntern. Could you tell me where I can find the seller? I''d like to ask him about the origin of thisntern," Fang Chen inquired.


    The stall owner shook his head and sighed. "It''s just a chance encounter, I don''t know where he went."


    With that said, the stall owner started introducing the damaged treasures in front of him.


    Fang Chen stood quietly, his thoughts drifting. He didn''t even notice that Old Wang and the others had subtly surrounded him. He took out a Starlight Transmission Symbol and sent a few messages to Fairy Yu, but they were met with silence, like drops in the ocean.


    "Something''s wrong," Fang Chen muttered to himself. If the Dragon Bone Heavenly Lantern ended up in such a broken state in Fairy Yu''s hands, one could imagine the danger she had faced.


    Old Wang walked up to Fang Chen and chuckled softly. "My friend,e with us. Our young master wants to meet you, and he''s in a good mood today. Perhaps if you perform well, you might be able to stay alive."


    Fang Chen nodded. "Alright, I''m not in a good mood today anyway. Lead the way."


    Old Wang was taken aback for a moment. He expected Fang Chen to be angry or at least inquire about the situation, but why was he so calm, as if he already knew? However, Old Wang didn''t dwell on it. He just smiled slyly and said, "Please follow me."

 Chapter 489: How About Taking Off the Mask

    <h4>Chapter 489: How About Taking Off the Mask </h4>


    Old Wang led Fang Chen to a quiet room in a teahouse, where several other cultivators stood beside Chen Sheng. In front of Chen Sheng, an elderly man, a young couple, and seven or eight teenagers were kneeling. The elderly man was a Foundation Building Realm cultivator, while the young couple were at the 11th stage of the Qi Refining Realm. Their cultivation was not low, but before Chen Sheng, they could only bend and kneel. Their eyes filled with fear and a hint of humiliation.


    Old Wang bowed respectfully. "Master, I have brought him over."


    Chen Sheng nced at Fang Chen and nodded lightly. "Stand aside for now. Wait until I have dealt with their matters before dealing with yours."


    Old Wang looked at Fang Chen with a smile that was not a smile. "Did you hear that? Stand aside for now."


    The cultivator whom Fang Chen had encountered in front of the Dragon Soaring Pavilion was present too, and he looked at Fang Chen with glee.


    Chen Sheng looked at the elderly man in front of him with a smile that wasn''t quite a smile. "Master Xu, as I''ve told you before, I have a few connections here in the sea. I know people from all over. If you go back on your word, I can always find you and your family. Look, was I wrong?"


    The elderly man was sweating profusely. Wiping the sweat off his forehead with his sleeve, he said, "Senior Chen, I don''t want to break my word, but three thousand low-grade spirit stones is too much. It''s difficult to gather such an amount in a short time...."


    "Difficult to gather?" Chen Sheng slowly sat up straight, looking down at the elderly man from a higher position. "I gave you almost half a year, didn''t I? And now you''re saying it''s difficult to gather them? If you had said so from the beginning, I wouldn''t have bothered with your Xu family''s affairs. You would have all already reincarnated by now, wouldn''t you?"


    The elderly man looked somewhat terrified.


    Suddenly, a young man unable to suppress his anger whispered, "It was clearly your guys who came to trouble us in the first ce!"


    "Adults are speaking; what right do you have to interrupt? Shut up," Chen Sheng said.


    Old Wang immediately stepped forward and grabbed the young man, delivering a dozen hard ps to his face, causing the young man to feel dizzy and see stars.


    When the elderly man and the young couple saw this scene, their eyes filled with anger, but they dared not move. The person in front of them was at the Golden Core Realm. If they made any move, they would all die here today!


    Chen Sheng didn''t stop Old Wang.


    Old Wang continued his relentless assault. Just as the young man was about to be beaten to death, Fang Chen stepped forward and grabbed Old Wang''s arm. "The child isn¡¯t at fault. There''s no need to be so harsh."


    Old Wang was angry at first, but then he was mostly shocked. Fang Chen''s strength was incredibly powerful. "You!?"


    Even when Old Wang activated his spiritual power, he couldn''t move a muscle. It was as if a huge mountain was pressing down on his arm!


    The elderly man and the others were somewhat surprised, looking at Fang Chen with a hint of gratitude subconsciously. However, they quickly grew worried. They understood Chen Sheng''s temper. If they defied him, they might face even more severe retaliation.


    Chen Sheng seemed to have caught a glimpse of something and looked at Fang Chen with a smile. "You do have a bit of skill. No wonder you act like you''re above everyone else, even daring to kill my men."


    The elderly man and the others gasped in shock. "What!?"


    Their eyes showed a sliver of pity as they looked toward Fang Chen. They looked at him as if he were a dying man. Since he had killed Chen Sheng''s men, he''d be fortunate to still have a corpse.


    "Old Wang, step aside. It seems this one is a bit impatient. Today, I will handle his matters first," Chen Sheng said calmly.


    Old Wang felt the strength holding his arm disappear, so he stepped aside with a grim expression.


    Chen Sheng pointed to the chair opposite him. "Come, have a seat."


    Once Fang Chen sat down, Chen Sheng asked curiously, "Why are you wearing a mask? Don¡¯t dare to show your face? You might as well take off the mask and speak."


    Fang Chen nodded lightly and took off the mask, revealing his gray-white pupils as he looked calmly at Chen Sheng.


    <i>Gray pupils....</i>


    Chen Sheng''s expression stiffened slightly.


    The two female cultivators beside him suddenly gasped, one of them subconsciously saying, "Isn¡¯t he..."


    "Shut up." Chen Sheng backhandedly pped the female cultivator''s forehead, causing her head to sink into her chest, and she staggered a few times before falling heavily to the ground.


    The other female cultivator looked terrified and dared not speak.


    Old Wang and the others were stunned. These two maids were Chen Sheng''s trusted aides. Why would he kill one of them just like that?


    A look of fear shed in their eyes, knowing that with such an unpredictable master, one wrong move could cost them their lives. The old man and the others were shocked; if the leader could be so cruel to his own, what would happen to them?


    "I apologize. I don''t like people interrupting me casually. They really invite embarrassment," Chen Sheng said with a faint smile as he looked at Fang Chen.


    Seeing that Fang Chen didn''t say anything and only stared at him quietly, Chen Sheng''s smile became strained. He tried to appear natural and said softly, "There seems to have been a misunderstanding between you and my subordinates. It''s not a big deal now. It was a bit presumptuous of me to have youe here today."


    He even stopped referring to himself in a high and mighty manner.


    Fang Chen remained calm and didn''t speak, but his calm gaze made Chen Sheng increasingly uneasy.


    Chen Sheng began using respectfulnguage and referred to himself as a subordinate. "Since the misunderstanding is cleared, I still need to handle their affairs. How about we part ways here?"


    Even the slowest person could vaguely sense that something was wrong.


    Old Wang was beyond shocked. Could the person before them have an impressive background if even their young master didn''t dare provoke him?


    Fang Chen still didn''t speak.


    Unconsciously, a thinyer of cold sweat appeared on Chen Sheng''s forehead.


    Just then, Fang Chen spoke up. "If you take out the Transmission Talisman, I will kill you."


    Chen Sheng''s arm instantly froze in ce.


    Old Wang and the others looked at each other, all seeing a hint of shock in each other¡¯s eyes.


    The old man nowpletely understood. This person was someone Chen Sheng couldn''t afford to provoke. No wonder everything about Chen Sheng seemed strange from the moment Fang Chen removed his mask.


    Chen Sheng forced a smile. ¡°Could you please rify what you mean? I''m having trouble understanding."


    Fang Chen could already ascertain that the person this guy was looking for was him. The person who was after him was none other than the Azure Dragon Battle General too. Even though Chen Sheng was not a Spirit Blood Sect cultivator, he had numerous ties with them.


    Fang Chen nced at the old man. "You can leave now."


    The old man looked puzzled. Surprisingly, he didn''t leave immediately, appearing very hesitant. Clearly, he feared that leaving would result in Chen Sheng seeking revengeter.


    Fang Chen looked at Chen Sheng. "Can they leave?"


    "Y-yes, they can." Chen Sheng nodded repeatedly, looking kindly at the old man and the others. "You may leave now."


    The old man''s expression was strange as he sped his fists and prepared to leave with his family. "Elder Chen, then I will take my leave first...."


    Fang Chen suddenly looked at the teenager who had just been pped several times. "Young man, please wait a moment."


    The young man''s expression was extremely respectful. "Elder, do you have any instructions for me?"


    "Would you like to return those ps you received just now?" Fang Chen asked.


    The young man was taken aback.


    The old man and the young couple exchanged a nce, their eyes showing a slight trace of hesitation.


    The young man nodded without hesitation. "Yes!"


    The old man sighed inwardly, realizing that his grandson was too impulsive.


    Fang Chen smiled and pointed at Chen Sheng. "Go ahead, p him."


    Chen Sheng was suddenly stunned. Old Wang and the others took a sharp breath.


    The young man also hesitated for a moment, then quickly walked up to Chen Sheng and pped him hard.


    <i>Smack!</i>


    Chen Sheng''s hairpin was knocked loose on the spot. He froze for a moment, unable to maintain the smile on his face, his expression darkening slightly. However, he didn''t resist at all.


    The young man became more excited, pping Chen Sheng repeatedly while cursing at him. Throughout it all, Chen Sheng remained silent.


    Witnessing this scene, everyone began to specte wildly about Fang Chen''s background, some even suspecting him of being a powerful Nascent Soul Realm expert. Otherwise, why would Chen Sheng endure the treatment silently?

 Chapter 490: Do you have any orders?

    <h4>Chapter 490: Do you have any orders?</h4>


    In the blink of an eye, the young man pped Chen Sheng hundreds of times, even draining some of his spiritual energy. After all, he was only a third stage Qi Refining Realm cultivator.


    However... Chen Sheng hadn''t dared to use his spiritual power to protect himself, so his cheeks were now swollen and red, and his eyes were bloodshot. He no longer appeared as the elegant and noble young master he once did.


    Old Wang and the others had lowered their heads, afraid to continue watching Chen Sheng. The Qi Refining Realm cultivator who had insulted Fang Chen and was now cowering in the corner of the tea room, his trembling hands revealing how terrified he was.


    The old man finally couldn''t help but ask Fang Chen cautiously, "Sen-Senior... shouldn''t that be enough?"


    Fang Chen smiled. "Don''t you want to have a go at him too?"


    The old man and the others fell into silence.


    After a few breaths, the young couple gritted their teeth and stepped forward, pulling the young man away before delivering ps to Chen Sheng''s face, one after another.


    Chen Sheng had thought enduring some humiliation would be enough to get through this, but now he realized that the Xu Family members were all eager to have a go at him!


    Chen Sheng finally spoke through clenched teeth. "Enough of this!"


    The young couple were stunned and subconsciously took two steps back.


    Fang Chen looked at Chen Sheng. "Is it really enough?"


    After a moment of silence, Chen Sheng shook his head slowly. "N-No... please, continue."


    The young couple breathed a sigh of relief and continued to deliver ps squarely to his face.


    Before long, half an hour had passed.


    The old man waved his sleeves angrily, delivering a fierce p across Chen Sheng''s face while cursing at him.


    "You old thing! You''re a mighty Golden Core Realm cultivator yet you''re stooping so low so as to do such lowly deeds! When has the Xu Family ever offended you? You''ve been pushing us around for over half a year, making us hide and flee like rats on the street!"


    <i>p!</i>


    "You''re just a dog''s fart! An old monster of several hundred years! Yet you act like a young man all day long, letting people call you ''Young Master.'' Are you even worthy of that?"


    <i>p!</i>


    "You old rabbit! Why aren''t you making a sound now? Didn''t expect that a Foundation Building Realm cultivator like me could p your face, did you?!"


    <i>p!</i>


    "If I don''t beat you to death today, I''m not your father!"


    He continued to curse with every p, almost one curse for every hit, spewing out all sorts of venomous words. The young couple and the group of young people were dumbfounded, never expecting their old ancestor to have such a sharp tongue. Almost every insult was different!


    The Foundation Building Realm wasn''t the same as the Qi Refining Realm. While it was true that a Golden Core Realm cultivator like Chen Sheng could withstand ps from Qi Refinement cultivators due to his body being tempered by constant spiritual energy nourishment, when faced up against a Foundation Building Realm cultivator, without properly defending himself, he''d be hard pressed to brush off the ps.


    Chen Sheng''s eyes were askew and his mouth was crooked from the beating, enduring the old man''s vicious curses. Several times, he almost lost control and wanted tosh out.


    <i>Endure! I must endure! As long as I survive today, all humiliations will be avenged! </i>Chen Sheng reassured himself inwardly.


    At the same time, he kept a close eye on Fang Chen, watching his expressions, afraid that his secret had been exposed. If that were the case, he would have no way out today.


    ¡°I¡¯m out of energy...¡± The old man suddenly muttered to himself. He waved his sleeves and bowed to Fang Chen with sped fists. "Many thanks, senior!"


    The young couple and the group of young boys and girls also bowed to Fang Chen and expressed their gratitude. "Many thanks, senior!"


    Chen Sheng felt a slight relief. "It''s finally over...."


    Fang Chen nodded to the old man. "You can leave now."


    The old man was tactful and didn''t say much, quickly leading his family away.


    "Sir, now that you have vented your anger, is this matter considered settled?" Chen Sheng cautiously asked.


    Fang Chen sighed softly. "I''m not in a good mood today."


    <i>It''s not my concern if you''re not in a good mood! </i>Chen Sheng cursed inwardly.


    However, he outwardly forced a smile and said, "How can I make you feel better? Ah, how could I be so befuddled!"


    He pped his own head, then took off a storage ring and ced it in front of Fang Chen slowly.


    Although he was smiling, Chen Sheng felt his heart bleeding.


    "Sir, this is all my belongings. Can this make you feel better? The spirit imprint has been erased, so you don''t need to worry about it," Chen Sheng said.


    Fang Chen took a nce at the storage ring. Inside were three high-grade, yellow-rank treasures with around seventy Soul Imprints. Chen Sheng was only in the early-stage Golden Core Realm, and ordinary experts at that level would only possess treasures with forty or so soul imprints. He could be considered quite wealthy.


    It seemed that Chen Sheng had gained quite a bit from running his side business on this boat for many years.


    In addition to these three treasures, there were piles and piles of low-grade spirit stones inside. They appeared to be in the neighborhood of around thirty thousand.


    "You think I''m a fool? Now I''m even more upset." Fang Chen shook his head lightly. "After extorting cultivators for so many years, you only have thirty thousand low-grade spirit stones?"


    "I have used most of the spirit stones in recent years to buy medicine, treasures, and other expenses. It has not been easy saving up thirty thousand," Chen Sheng hurriedly exined.


    <i>Thirty thousand low-grade spirit stones?!</i>


    Old Wang and the others couldn''t help but gasp at this revtion. They now realized how wealthy Chen Sheng was. For ordinary cultivators, that amount of spirit stones was beyond imagination!


    Seeing Fang Chen''s silence, Chen Sheng''s heart skipped a beat. He quickly looked at Old Wang and the others and said, "What are you still standing there for!?"


    Old Wang and the others were slightly stunned, then quickly took off their storage rings and put them in front of Fang Chen with apologetic smiles.


    "Are all your men here?" Fang Chen asked calmly without touching the storage rings.


    Chen Sheng felt relieved. As long as Fang Chen was willing to talk, he would be fine. When Fang Chen didn''t speak, he was really afraid that Fang Chen had already discovered his secret!


    "Please wait a moment, Sir. I''ll call them all over right away," Chen Sheng said as he prepared to take out the Transmission Talisman.


    "I said: if you take out your Transmission Talisman, I''ll send you on your way," Fang Chen said calmly.


    Chen Sheng froze.


    Fang Chen softly asked, "Among this group, are there any who, like you, are from the Spirit Blood Sect?¡±


    At these words, both Chen Sheng and the female cultivator beside him visibly stiffened, as if struck by lightning. Their bodies turned rigid!


    Old Wang and the others showed expressions of confusion, then horror, as they looked at Chen Sheng.


    Spirit Blood Sect cultivators?! Their young master was from the Spirit Blood Sect?!


    <i>How is that possible...? I thought this sect was just a legend and didn''t actually exist in the world! </i>thought Old Wang.


    Chen Sheng forced a smile. "You''re joking, how could I possibly be a Spirit Blood Sect cultivator...."


    However, on the inside, he was experiencing shockwaves of fear! He had been discovered! But what gave him away? He wasn''t wearing his affiliation on his face...!


    "Now, there is no need for you to deny it, right? The Spirit Blood Sect has been looking for me, haven''t they? Is it because of the Azure Dragon Battle General? Hmm, it should be him, after all, I killed his junior brothers," Fang Chen said with a faint smile.


    At this moment, his grayish-white pupils were covered in golden patterns, and his Primordial Immortal Eye had already opened, allowing him to observe a hint of unusual expression on Chen Sheng''s face.


    It was confirmed. The Azure Dragon Battle General was indeed the senior brother of the Invincible Duo. No wonder Jue Wudi was so arrogant initially; his senior brother was one of the Four Saint Battle Generals, and their master had to be in the Middle Three Realms!


    Immortal Void Rush had mentioned that cultivators of that level in the Spirit Blood Sect were known as Spirit Monarchs, and they were the true high-ranking members of the sect!


    The forced smile on Chen Sheng''s face faded, and he said coldly, "If I had known earlier, I wouldn''t have let those ants humiliate me just now."


    "You can retaliate, but you''ll soon lose your life. You should think carefully about why you''re still alive," Fang Chen said.


    Chen Sheng hesitated for a moment, his survival instinct rising again. He forced a smile and said, "What... what are your orders?"

 Chapter 491: Apologies, You Didnt Seize the Opportunity

    <h4>Chapter 491: Apologies, You Didn''t Seize the Opportunity</h4>


    Fang Chen said lightly, "Bring your friends over here."


    Chen Sheng was surprised. Was he asking him to betray the Spirit Blood Sect?


    Chen Sheng forced a smile. "Sir, sect members don''t have any means of contacting each other. Any tasks we have are ordered from above...."


    Fang Chen frowned. "This is your only chance to survive, so cherish it."


    "If I betray the Spirit Blood Sect... I won''t survive either way," Chen Sheng pondered aloud.


    "You have to seize opportunities for yourself. The cultivation world is vast. If you hide well, how can the Spirit Blood Sect find you?" Fang Chen said. "You have ten breaths to consider."


    Suddenly, the female cultivator beside Chen Sheng spoke up. "Young Master, you can''t fall for his trick! If you betray the sect, the Azure Dragon Battle General won''t spare you. No matter where you hide, you''ll be found and killed!"


    Chen Sheng nodded lightly "I know...."


    After he spoke, he punched the female cultivator right through her chest.


    The female cultivator''s face was full of shock, her eyes slowly dimming. "Young Master, you..."


    "To be honest," Chen Sheng withdrew his fist, wiping it lightly as he looked at Fang Chen, "I was coerced to join them. I¡¯m different from those Spirit Blood Sect cultivators. I don''t believe a word of their lofty ideals they talk about."


    Pausing for a moment, Chen Sheng looked at the two female cultivator corpses. "My superior arranged for these two women to be by my side. Despite their obedience on the surface, if anything happened, they would inform my superiors immediately."


    Old Wang and the others were too frightened to lift their heads, trembling with their heads bowed. Chen Sheng had already dealt with two trusted aides, and the others were afraid they might meet the same fate and be silenced.


    "Young Master, in fact, my superior took most of the low-grade spirit stones I earned over the years. As far as I know, he controls about six or seven Golden Core Realm cultivators," Chen Sheng said. "If I can lead my superior and those cultivators here, will that be enough to exchange for my life?"


    "How long will they take to arrive?" Fang Chen said lightly.


    Chen Sheng thought for a bit before replying, "At least a year or so."


    "A year or so?" Fang Chen frowned slightly. He didn''t have time to waste on this. After thinking for a moment, he said, "What are their names, where do they live and what is their cultivation level? Tell me everything."


    "If I do this, will you really let me go?" Chen Sheng asked.


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "There will be a chance for you to live. If you don''t try, how will you know?"


    15 minutester, Fang Chen learned seven pieces of intel from Chen Sheng and directly passed this intel to the Spiritual Killing Division and specifically mentioned that they should verify it themselves so that if there were a trap or two among them, they would be able to handle those situations.


    After doing all that, Fang Chen looked at Chen Sheng and said, "I''m sorry, you didn''t seize the opportunity."


    "You..."


    Chen Sheng was about to retaliate but was swiftly struck down by a sh of sword light, ending his life.


    After a dozen breaths, Fang Chen adjusted his clothes and left the tea room. After wandering for another hour, Fang Chen returned to the ship. Even though the port was bustling with all kinds of cultivators from various ces, there were peak-grade, yellow-rank treasures for sale today.


    About half a dayter, the ship prepared to set sail, and someone noticed that Chen Sheng hadn''t boarded yet and informed a cultivator named Zhou about the news.


    "Chen Sheng forgot the departure time? I have to personally make a move now!"


    The cultivator surnamed Zhou, apanied by a group of maintenance crew from the ship, arrived at the tea house and entered the room confidently.


    As soon as they opened the door, a strong smell of blood wafted out. When they saw the scene before them, they were all stunned. On the table were heads soaked in blood that were arranged like a pyramid, with Chen Sheng''s head at the top.


    That cultivator surnamed Zhou took a sharp breath and took a few steps back in shock before looking instinctively at the people around him. "Is that Chen Sheng!?"


    "I-It does seem to be him..."


    The group of cultivators looked shocked.


    <i>How did Chen Sheng get killed without being able to send out the slightest warning?!</i>


    Without saying another word, the cultivator surnamed Zhou took out a Transmission Talisman and lit it. After a dozen or so breaths, a middle-aged man in a green robe slowly walked into the tea room. When he saw Chen Sheng''s remains, his expressionless face betrayed a hint of emotion.


    The cultivator surnamed Zhou hurriedly asked, "Uncle, will Chen Sheng''s death affect us?"


    The middle-aged man in the green robe pondered for a moment and answered, "He was killed by his enemies. What does that have to do with us? Let''s not worry about this matter and leave."


    The group dared not say more and left with the middle-aged man in the green robe.


    After the ship left the port, the teahouse owner started to feel that something was off. He led some people to the front of the teahouse and respectfully said, "Senior Chen, it seems like your ship has already departed."


    There was no response from inside. After waiting for a while and not getting a reply, the teahouse owner mustered up the courage to push the door open. Inside, he saw dozens of lifeless eyes staring nkly at him and his scalp tinged and he took a deep breath.


    Chen Sheng was quite famous and anyone who knew his background wouldn''t dare offend him easily. Over time, he had gained a certain reputation. But now, that highly esteemed Golden Core Realm cultivator had died without a sound. If news of that got out, it would definitely cause a stir among the cultivators on this route.


    ***


    During the following period, Fang Chen lived a very quiet life. He didn''t leave his room for a year and a half. In that time, he depleted all his talisman spiritual materials, and he had amassed more than three hundred True Fire Talismans in his storage ring.


    He had gained a lot after killing Chen Sheng. Chen Sheng and his followers had around forty thousand low-grade spirit stones altogether. Adding on his original stash of fifty-eight thousand, it was nearly a hundred thousand.


    Once he sold the batch of True Fire Talisman, he would gain another hundred thousand low-grade spirit stones.


    He had already gathered the amount of spirit stones needed for Little Sword to advance to the fourth rank. Once he reached Taichu, he would be able to buy peak-grade, yellow-rank treasures at that third-tier empire for Little Sword to advance.


    Having a third-rank Sword Body allowed him to deal with Golden Core Realm cultivators easily with his Foundation Building Realm cultivation. If he advanced to the fourth rank of the Sword Body, there would be no need to flee when he encountered Nascent Soul Realm experts.


    During that time, Fang Chen would contact Fairy Yu every two or three days using Starlight Transmission Talisman, but he never received a reply. It was a sure fact that Fairy Yu had encountered trouble. Now, he could only wait until he reached the Central Continent and went to the Void Immortal Sword Sect to find out what happened.


    Fang Chen suddenly frowned. "What''s all the noise outside?"


    "It''s the New Year," Mirror of the Universe exined.


    <i>New Year? </i>


    Fang Chen was slightly surprised. <i>Another year had passed so quickly?</i>


    He realized that he had been in this world for thirty-eight years now.


    For the first twenty-three years, he served in the Grand Xia military, moving between empires like Qingsong and Longdu during the New Year. Even if he didn''t have family around, he had brothers andrades.


    In the next dozens of years, he spent twenty as a wandering soul, and two years on this ship.


    Fang Chen chuckled at himself. "I¡¯m approaching forty soon. In my previous life, with some effort, I might have had grandchildren by now."


    For a Foundation Building Realm cultivator, being in their thirties or forties was like being in the early twenties for mortals. Time hadn¡¯t left any trace on Fang Chen''s face.


    Opening his chamber''s door, he saw rednterns being hung everywhere on the ship as snowkes drifted down from the sky. Laughter and joy filled the air.


    Fang Chen stepped on the dense, pure white snow and headed toward the direction of the Dragon Soaring Pavilion.

 Chapter 492: New Year’s Greeting

    <h4>Chapter 492: New Year¡¯s Greeting</h4>


    ¡°Happy New Year, Elder Xu!¡±


    "Happy New Year, happy New Year! Are these your juniors? When you reach the Taichu Empire, let me host them at my manor!"


    "Of course, I hope Elder Xu will take care of us a lot in the future."


    The cultivators on the ship celebrated the New Year, and the smiles on their faces were sincere. Most of these cultivators had families and held various purposes as they headed to the Taichu Empire, harboring some expectations for the unknown journey ahead.


    "Grandpa... look quickly, it''s that gentleman!"


    Elder Xu was talking with someone when he heard that, and he was slightly surprised. He followed his grandson''s line of sight and looked over. With one nce, a sh of shock crossed his eyes.


    Elder Xu¡¯s son and daughter-inw were also secretly rmed. Since that day, they had quietly inquired about news regarding Chen Sheng. Although they didn''t know if Chen Sheng was alive or dead, they were sure that he hadn''t boarded the ship. None of his subordinates were on the ship either. It was clear something happened.


    For the Xu Family, that was undoubtedly a great thing, which was why they were so happy today. After all, the heavy shackles around their hands had been removed. And now, they had the chance to meet the senior who had removed those shackles for them.


    It was evident that this person had the same destination as them. After exchanging a few words with his old friends, Elder Xu hurriedly chased after Fang Chen.


    Elder Xu caught up quickly and respectfully called out. "Sir, Sir...!"


    Fang Chen stopped and gave a faint smile. ¡°It¡¯s you. Are you also going to the Taichu Empire?¡±


    "It¡¯s all thanks to you that we are able to return to the Taichu Empire," Elder Xu said quickly.


    It was only then that Fang Chen understood that this family had been forced to the brink by Chen Sheng, and they didn''t even dare to return to the Taichu Empire because Chen Sheng knew where they stayed. Before meeting Fang Chen, they had been stranded in that port for a long time. It was only after that incident that they dared to board the ship again.


    Fang Chen nodded softly. "Is there anything you need? I''m going to the Dragon Soaring Pavilion."


    Elder Xu quickly replied, "In that case, I won''t disturb you any longer."


    After Fang Chen took a few steps, Elder Xu mustered his courage and sped his fist. "Sir, if you have nothing else tonight, could you join us for a New Year''s Eve dinner?"


    Fang Chen was slightly surprised. "New Year''s Eve dinner?"


    "Yes." Elder Xu''s eyes were hopeful.


    Fang Chen smiled. "Let''s see."


    After that, he turned around and left.


    Elder Xu sighed inwardly. How could such an existence ept his invitation easily? But he also harbored a glimmer of hope. This person scared even Chen Sheng, so his methods must be extraordinary. If they could establish a rtionship with him, it would be a great opportunity for the Xu Family.


    Elder Xu''s son and daughter-inw walked over. "Dad, is that him?"


    Elder Xu nodded lightly. "It''s him."


    The young couple was pleasantly surprised. "Dad, this gentleman is our benefactor. We should repay him."


    "How do we repay him? After paying the fare for the ship ride, how much are we left with?" Elder Xu chuckled self-deprecatingly. "With the skills of this gentleman, he wouldn''t even spare a nce at our peanuts."


    At this point, he nced at his family''s younger generation and suddenly said, "Later, all of youe with me to the entrance of the Dragon Soaring Pavilion. It''s the New Year and we should all pay our respects to the gentleman."


    ***


    At the Dragon Soaring Pavilion, Che Yuxuan was visibly shocked when he saw Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen smiled. "Brother Che, why the surprise?"


    Che Yuxuan looked puzzled. "I heard that over a year ago, you killed several troublesome fellows. Didn''t they cause trouble for you?"


    Fang Chen chuckled. "No. I guess they didn''t dare to make a move on the ship. After all, they would have to pay a fine. I spent five thousand low-grade spirit stones to deal with five troublesome fellows."


    "You''re so generous, Brother Xia. If it were me, I''d rather jump into the sea than pay such a sum of spirit stones." Che Yuxuan admired. He then asked with anticipation, "Last time, the quality of the True Fire Talisman you sold me was excellent. They werepletely sold out six months ago. Do you have more to sell again?"


    Fang Chen nodded. "Three hundred True Fire Talismans. Can your ce handle it?"


    "Th-three hundred!" Che Yuxuan was shocked, and his scalp tingled. He quickly calcted the price in his mind and couldn''t help but gasp for air. This was a deal worth a hundred thousand low-grade spirit stones! The profits hidden within were even more astonishing. It might take the entire shipping route five years to earn four or five times this amount at the Dragon Soaring Pavilion.


    ¡°Brother Xia, you haven''t spent over a hundred years on talisman crafting, have you?" Che Yuxuan looked puzzled. "How many True Fire Talismans do you have left? Why not sell them all at once? It''s better than scaring me every time."


    Fang Chen chuckled. "I''ve put all my eggs in this basket with these three hundred talismans. It''s not like it took me over a hundred years. Maybe seven or eight decades."


    Che Yuxuan nodded after a quick calction. "Seven or eight decades? About three or four talismans a year... that''s about right."


    That made sense.


    Crafting a talisman wasn''t that simple; otherwise, everyone would be practicing talisman crafting instead of cultivating immortality.


    The Dragon Soaring Pavilion was still quite rich as therge deal was quicklypleted, and Fang Chen''s savings had risen to two hundred thousand low-grade spirit stones. Fang Chen now had enough funds for the advancement of Little Sword.


    Fang Chen asked casually, "Brother Che, your Dragon Soaring Pavilion seems to be doing quite well?"


    Che Yuxuan beamed; a few more deals like this, and he could be the shopkeeper.


    "The Dragon Soaring Pavilion''s business is naturallyrge. The big boss behind it hails from Taichu and is a true Middle Three Realms cultivator. Brother Xia, you''ve heard of the Middle Three Realms, right? Themon folk views us as immortals, but to us, Middle Three Realms cultivators are the immortals."


    Che Yuxuan sighed. ¡°It is rumored that cultivators in the Enlightenment Realm can use their divine soul to travel around the world. They have also mastered numerous immortal techniques which can be activated by their divine soul. It is hard to understand their might and methods."


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. That was indeed the case.


    The Primordial Immortal Eyes and the Radiant Divine Eyes could only be activated by the divine soul. When used by a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator, they could only unleash less than one percent of its true power.


    "Today is New Year''s. Counting the time, it will be about three years before I reach Taichu. Are you nning to settle down there this time?" Che Yuxuan was somewhat curious. "I live in Taichu. If you have free time in the future, we can get together."


    Fang Chen nodded with a smile. "Sure, sure."


    Che Yuxuan escorted Fang Chen all the way to the entrance of the Dragon Soaring Pavilion, exchanged a few more pleasantries, and then turned to leave.


    Upon seeing Fang Chen, Elder Xu hurriedly led the young couple and his grandchildren to bow to Fang Chen. "Young Master, we''vee to wish you a Happy New Year."


    "Why be so polite?" said Fang Chen.


    He smiled faintly and nced at the lively faces, casually taking out some spirit stones and giving each person a red packet with one hundred low-grade spirit stones.


    Everyone was stunned as they looked at Elder Xu in disbelief.


    "Just ept it. It¡¯s for good luck," Fang Chen said with a light smile.


    Elder Xu was surprised, but he quickly said to his grandchildren, "Thank the young master."


    The hands of the boys and girls trembled slightly as they epted the red packets. "Thank you, Young Master!"


    Each red packet contained a hundred low-grade spirit stones and that was incredibly generous. Back when the Xu Family was still prosperous, they had never received suchrge red envelopes for the New Year.


    Elder Xu once again thickened his skin and invited Fang Chen to join them for the New Year''s Eve dinner. Fang Chen thought for a moment and agreed, following them as they left.


    Not far away, Elder Zhou, apanied by a group of subordinates, watched Fang Chen thoughtfully.


    "This guy is so generous. What''s his background?"


    "Don''t you remember? He killed five people previously and paid a fine of five thousand..."


    "Oh, it''s him? I thought Chen Shen already killed him.... It seems like Chen Sheng didn''t get the chance to deal with him before he left..."


    Elder Zhou pondered for a moment and then smirked darkly. "This guy is so wealthy. What''s his cultivation level?"


    "He''s registered as an early-stage Foundation Building Realm."


    "His cultivation isn''t that high..." Elder Zhou squinted slightly. "Let''s find an opportunity to dig deeper into his background. With Chen Sheng gone, I''ll pick up his business for him."

 Chapter 493: New Years Eve Dinner

    Chapter 493: New Year''s Eve Dinner


    Tonight, the deck of the ship was bustling with activity, with hundreds of tables set up. Even the cultivators from the Heaven and Earth-level chambers made an appearance. The table prepared by Elder Xu''s family was on the outermost corner, and when they saw Fang Chen take his seat, Elder Xu''s heart finally settled.


    The deck was divided into several areas, clearly demarcated from each other. The people living in the Heaven-level chambers all seemed like formidable individuals, exuding a deep and profound aura like an abyss, with the lowest amongst them being in the Golden Core Realm.


    The people from the Earth-level chambers were slightly lower in cultivation, but many were at the peak of Foundation Building Realm, and there was nock of grandpletion stage Foundation Building Realm cultivators among them.


    It seemed like they were all looking for opportunities towork, intending to go to the tables of the Golden Core Realm cultivators to toast.


    The area where Fang Chen was located appeared quite ordinary. There were mostly Foundation Building Realm cultivators apanied by a group of Qi Refining Realm cultivators. There were many families with children present, and those who usually traveled alone were not seen today, all secluded in the cultivation chambers.


    Even the dishes on their tables were simplerpared to those at the tables of the Golden Core Realm cultivators, but they didn''t mind at all; instead, they were very happy.


    With each passing year, they were getting closer to the Taichu Empire.


    A few Foundation Building Realm cultivators from the adjacent table nced over and were surprised to see Fang Chen. "Elder Xu, is this person a rtive of yours? Why have I not seen him before?"


    Elder Xu was about to speak, but he saw Fang Chen shake his head lightly, so he could only force a smile and nod, intending to brush it off.Unexpectedly, the Foundation Building Realm cultivators felt it wasn''t lively enough and suggested merging the tables to celebrate the New Year together. With that, several tables were quicklybined, making the atmosphere much livelier.


    "Elder Xu, I heard something interesting. It seems that Senior Chen hasn''t boarded the ship again since he left. It seems that he and his subordinates have all disappeared,¡± a Foundation Building Realm cultivator said mysteriously. "This is a good thing for you all."


    A Foundation Building Realm cultivator nearby snorted disdainfully. "It''s good that he''s not boarding again. As a Golden Core Realm cultivator, why is he doing such lowly things in the first ce."


    "Daoist Nan Tian, be careful with your words. Don''t let others overhear you or you might wind up in trouble," another Foundation Building Realm cultivator warned in a hushed tone, causing the others present to look worried and advise him to be cautious.


    Nan Tian sneered. "So what if they overhear? Since that person is not on the ship, should I fear those underlings under him?"


    "Daoist Nan Tian, you are as hot-tempered as ever¡­."


    A Foundation Building Realm cultivator sighed, then casually changed the subject, unwilling to continue discussing this matter.


    They shared their experiences on the cultivation path, asionally discussing insights into cultivation, and raising their sses to each other from time to time. That was how cultivators celebrated the New Year. They were not much different from ordinary people, except ordinary people talked about family matters.


    Fang Chen listened with interest, and if someone toasted him, he would drink without hesitation.


    "Elder Xu, does this junior of yours have sword rted treasures on him?" a Foundation Building Realm cultivator asked curiously.


    Elder Xu cursed inwardly, wondering why that person was prying into their business. He smiled awkwardly, not knowing how to exin.


    Fang Chen smiled and replied, "Indeed, I have a sword rted treasure."


    "No wonder, I couldn''t figure out your cultivation level. You don''t seem too old, which stage of Qi Refining Realm are you at?" asked the Foundation Building Realm cultivator curiously.


    Elder Xu hurriedly spoke up as he was ready to change the subject. ¡°Everyone, I think¡­."


    But then Fang Chen replied to the cultivator, ¡°Early-stage Foundation Building Realm.¡±


    Early-stage Foundation Building Realm!?


    Elder Xu and the others were stunned, as were the other Foundation Building Realm cultivators and their juniors.


    <em>Young Master Fang must have a cultivation level beyond the Foundation Building Realm. It seems he wants to conceal his true cultivation realm,</em> Elder Xu and the others thought to themselves.


    ¡°He''s actually at the early-stage Foundation Building Realm....¡±


    ¡°And he looks so young... how could the Xu Family nurture such a talent?¡±


    Several other Foundation Building Realm cultivators exchanged nces, and one of them cautiously asked, ¡°Daoist, are you rted to Elder Xu?¡±


    Fang Chen replied with a smile. ¡°Oh, Elder Xu saw that I was alone, so he invited me to join them for this New Year''s Eve dinner.¡±


    Several Foundation Building Realm cultivators smiled awkwardly. ¡°You see, we misunderstood and thought you were Elder Xu''s junior, sorry for the confusion.¡±


    One of them stared at Fang Chen for a while, then suddenly asked, ¡°Daoist, do you have a Daopanion?¡±


    Fang Chen shook his head. ¡°No, I don''t.¡±


    The Foundation Building Realm cultivator''s eyes lit up, and he went on, ¡°In that case, how about my granddaughter? She has been cultivating for thirty-seven years and has reached the tenth stage of the Qi Refining Realm. She''s also quite talented,¡±


    The young female cultivator beside him looked shocked. Her face turning red, she sneaked nces at Fang Chen from the corner of her eye.


    Elder Xu''s grandchildren rolled their eyes.


    Fang Chen was also taken aback and smiled. ¡°I haven''t considered this matter yet.¡±


    The Foundation Building Realm cultivator wanted to say something more but was stopped by the young female cultivator''s coquettish scolding.


    ¡°Are you all happy today? The ship owner asked me to bring you some New Year''s gifts.¡±


    A group of people approached, led by a middle-aged man in a green robe, with Elder Zhou following behind him.


    Pot after pot of spirit-infused wine was ced on the tables.


    Upon seeing the middle-aged man in the green robe, Elder Xu and the others showed a slight trace of awe as they stood up and bowed with sped hands. Even the cultivators sitting nearby, including those from the Heaven-level room, stood up in respect.


    As the cultivator surnamed Zhou passed by Fang Chen, he deliberately nced at him, his gaze somewhat profound. Then he followed the middle-aged man in the green robe towards the group of Golden Core Realm cultivators and engaged in conversation and pleasantries.


    "Senior Chi is quite a formidable person. With him around, this shipping route has been peaceful for many years," remarked a Foundation Building Realm cultivator at Fang Chen''s table as he watched them walk away.


    Fang Chen nced at the middle-aged man in the green robe. No matter where you were, a cultivator at thete stage of Golden Core Realm was an expert. It was more than enough for him to oversee a journey across the sea.


    "It''s a pity that he doesn''t indulge in stirring up troubles with those dregs," muttered Nan Tian with a hint of drunkenness on his face, as he had been the most aggressive in drinking just now.


    The expressions of the people around them changed.


    It was one thing if Chen Sheng was not on the ship, but now that Senior Chi was currently on board, if he heard of that, what would be the consequences? At the very least, he would have been thrown off the ship.


    At that moment, a Foundation Building Realm cultivator suddenly turned around, his face turning pale.


    Suddenly, the cultivator surnamed Zhou was standing behind everyone without anyone noticing. He held a wine cup and looked at Nan Tian with a cold smile. Unaware, Nan Tian continued to curse under his breath, seemingly venting his frustration.


    Fang Chen had already figured out that Chen Shen had to have wronged this Foundation Building Realm cultivator in the past; otherwise, he wouldn''t hate Chen Sheng so much.


    That cultivator surnamed Zhou slowly said, "This passenger, if you have anyints about my uncle, why don''t you say it to his face?"


    Nan Tian was slightly stunned and looked at him with drunken eyes. When he saw who it was, the tipsiness was swept away.


    Nan Tian looked around at everyone. "What did I just say?"


    The crowd''s expressions turned strange.


    Seeing that, Elder Xu immediately put on a ttering smile, raised his cup, and said, "Daoist Zhou, please don''t mind. Daoist Nan Tian simply drank too much and spoke without thinking...."


    That cultivator looked at Elder Xu. "You want to exin it to him? Fine,e with me to see my uncle."


    The Xu Family members were suddenly shocked and a hint of fear appeared on their faces.


    Senior Chi was a Golden Core Realm cultivator, and he was much stronger than Chen Sheng!


    "What happened?" a faint voice sounded. The Golden Core Realm cultivators at that table all looked over at Elder Xu. The one who spoke was a middle-aged man in a green robe.


    Seeing that, Zhou immediately sped his hands and said, "Uncle, I heard them talking about you, saying you let some dregs run amok on the ship."


    With those words, the lively atmosphere on the deck suddenly turned cold.

 Chapter 494: Demoness Yu

    Chapter 494: Demoness Yu


    "These Foundation Building Realm cultivators are quite bold. They even dare to gossip about Senior Chi in private. Don''t they have any sense?"


    "Let''s see how they handle this. If they''re not careful today, they might get thrown off the ship."


    People whispered among themselves.


    Senior Chi was not an easy person to deal with, nor was he a benevolent one. His reputation hadrgely been earned through battles on this route.


    Elder Xu and the others turned pale, while fear appeared on Nan Tian''s face. He wanted to speak but stopped himself in the end.


    The middle-aged man in the green robe smiled and asked softly, "Oh? He said dregs run amok? I wonder what you mean by that?"


    Elder Xu and the others hurriedly exined that it was just a misunderstanding, but Nan Tian remained silent, refusing to speak.


    "A mere Foundation Building Realm cultivator dares to gossip about a Golden Core Realm cultivator?"


    One Golden Core Realm cultivator frowned and said, "Is it because we seldom act these days that you think we''re useless and can talk about us so casually?""Indeed, some younger cultivators nowadays look down on us. They show respect on the surface but secretly nder us," said another Golden Core Realm cultivator, sighing slightly. He raised his cup and downed his drink all at once.


    After a long silence, Nan Tian suddenly stood up. "One should bear the consequences of their actions. I said those words; it has nothing to do with them!"


    Nan Tian was quite stout, with broad shoulders. When he stood up, he was like a towering mountain.


    Elder Xu and the others were slightly startled, their eyes filled with concern. Only Elder Xu instinctively looked at Fang Chen, but seeing Fang Chen''sck of reaction, he could only smile bitterly.


    No one would invite trouble upon themselves without reason. It seems that this Nan Tian fellow is in for some suffering today.


    "Oh? You have some dissatisfaction with how I handle things?" The middle-aged man in the green robe smiled faintly and said, "Today happens to be a festival. Why don''t you speak up and let everyone hear it? I want to see where I might have fallen short and neglected you."


    "Please don''t say that, Senior Chi. If you can''t manage things well, who can?"


    "We''ve traveled this route more than once or twice. Whenever Senior Chi is in charge, no matter what dangers we encounter along the way, we alwayse out unscathed."


    "Yes, I remember twenty years ago when I traveled on this route. We identally encountered an evil cultivator and a ruthless killer. If it weren''t for Senior Chi driving him away, we wouldn''t have made it out alive."


    Many cultivators began to tter the middle-aged man in the green robe.


    Hearing that, Nan Tian''s face immediately showed a strong look of disdain. "You all are really good at ttering. Let me ask you, who among you hasn''t been wronged by Chen Sheng?"


    The crowd fell silent, their expressions turning awkward.


    "It seems quite a few people have been wronged by Chen Sheng. Let me ask everyone, we paid to board this ship, so why must we endure humiliation and exploitation from others?" Nan Tian sneered. "Isn''t it because someone higher up is turning a blind eye? Otherwise, with Chen Sheng''s cultivation, how could he have been a tyrant on this route for over a hundred years?"


    "Shut up! How dare you nder a Golden Core Realm cultivator with just your words. Are you calling cultivator Chen a tyrant?"


    The cultivator surnamed Zhou suddenly threw his wine cup at Nan Tian. Nan Tian did not dodge, and the cup hit him squarely on the head, with wine trickling down his hair. Despite being a Foundation Building Realm cultivator, he was humiliated by a mere Qi Refining cultivator, but no one found it unusual. This was because the Qi Refining cultivator had the backing of ate-stage Golden Core Realm expert.


    The middle-aged man in the green robe smiled faintly. "You say that cultivator Chen is a tyrant? This is the first time I''ve heard such a im. Too bad he''s not here; if he were, he would probablyugh out loud."


    The other Golden Core Realm cultivators at the tableughed along with him.


    After a few moments, the middle-aged man in the green robe said lightly, "What you said earlier is nonsense. Since tonight is a festival, I won''t hold it against you. Sit down and eat your meal."


    Seeing that, Elder Xu and the others quickly pulled Nan Tian back to his seat. Nan Tian was a bit stunned.


    <em>Was that it? He had been prepared to be thrown into the sea today.</em>


    Everyone began to praise Senior Chi for his magnanimity.


    "Consider yourself lucky that my uncle is broad-minded." Cultivator Zhou sneered. He then picked up a wine cup from the table, filled it for himself, and turned to Fang Chen, who had remained silent all this time. Smiling, he said, "Let me make a toast."


    Everyone was taken aback.


    <em>Why was this little tyrant toasting Fang Chen?</em>


    Nan Tian''s eyebrows furrowed slightly, and a trace of disdain appeared in his eyes as he looked at Fang Chen. So, they were birds of a feather.


    Fang Chen calmly picked up some food and said indifferently, "I don''t drink."


    The expression of that cultivator changed slightly, his gaze turning cold. "Will you not give me any face at all? Have you forgotten that you killed five of Golden Core Realm Chen''s subordinates? If it weren''t for us covering for you, he would have taken you in for questioning long ago."


    <em>He killed Chen Sheng''s subordinates?!</em>


    The crowd gasped. How could someone who had killed Chen Sheng''s men still be sitting here and eating the New Year''s Eve meal leisurely?


    Nan Tian realized he had misunderstood Fang Chen and his eyes softened considerably toward him.


    "I paid the fine, didn''t I?" Fang Chen smiled. "Since I paid the fine, it''s settled. There''s nothing to cover up."


    Cultivator Zhou remained silent for a few seconds, then suddenlyughed. "That''s fine... it''s actually an unwritten rule, a bribe taken by the lower ranks. My uncle knows nothing about it. ording to the rules, killing someone on the ship means being thrown overboard." With that, he sped his hands and addressed the Golden Core Realm expert in the distance. "Uncle, the one who killed the people on the ship has been found."


    Elder Xu and the others grew worried, and the warming atmosphere had turned tense again.


    The middle-aged man in the green robe looked over at Fang Chen, frowning. "You killed someone on the ship?"


    "Uncle, he¡¯s the one who killed Chen Sheng¡¯s men."


    <em>Chen Sheng?</em> The crowd was even more surprised as they looked toward Fang Chen. Some had recognized Fang Chen and recalled that incident from the past.


    Fang Chen remained silent, which seemed to indicate consent. The crowd turned to look at the middle-aged man in the green robe, wondering how he would handle the situation.


    At that moment, the pitch-ck night sky was suddenly pierced by a bright light, apanied by a thunderous roar and a stern shout, "Demoness Yu! You have nowhere left to run. Now that even the Void Immortal Sword Sect has rejected you, surrender and let us take you back for questioning!"


    The shout was like thunder, deafening to the ears. The people on the ship were slightly stunned, showing a hint of fear on their faces. It seemed they had encountered a vendetta. Such incidents weremon and not unusual. The bright light was clearly some sort of lightning technique!


    All the Golden Core Realm cultivators present, including the middle-aged man in the green robe, became extremely serious. Lightning-rted techniques were all extraordinary inheritances that were inessible to ordinary people.


    From the light, the crowd saw a woman being chased by several cultivators, all of whom exuded immense power, none weaker than Senior Chi.


    The crowd''s eyes showed a hint of curiosity. "All of them arete-stage Golden Core Realm cultivators! For such beings to join forces to hunt down that woman, who could she be?"


    At that moment, the woman seemed to have reached the end of her strength, her spiritual energy exhausted. Seeing the ship, she turned into a stream of light andnded on the deck, gasping for breath.


    Fang Chen slowly lifted his gaze, a smile appearing on his face.


    Fortunately, Fairy Yu was still alive.

 Chapter 495: Celestial Soldiers Under the Command of Heavenly King Zhen!

    <h4>Chapter 495: Celestial Soldiers Under the Command of Heavenly King Zhen!</h4>


    Fairy Yu looked vastly different from before. Despite her current disheveled state, she exuded a strikingly cold elegance mixed with a sliver of ferocity that flickered in her eyes. Her aura was extremely weak, and her spiritual energy seemed depleted, but it was clear that her cultivation had advanced beyond the Foundation Building Realm, as she had entered the Golden Core Realm!


    Fang Chen was quite surprised by that. It had only been a decade or so since theyst met. If Fairy Yu had reached early or mid stage of the Foundation Building Realm, it would have been normal, especially with the support of the Void Immortal Sword Sect. However, for her to have condensed a Golden Core in such a short time was astonishing. Moreover, Fang Chen gleaned a crucial piece of information from the Golden Core cultivators who were pursuing her.


    <i>The Void Immortal Sword Sect has rejected Fairy Yu? Why? What has happened in these past years?</i>


    Fairy Yu panted heavily as shended on the deck. Thete-stage Golden Core Realm cultivators who were chasing her did not take immediate action but instead looked warily at Senior Chi and the others.


    "Are you all in league with this demoness?" one of the Golden Core cultivators asked coldly.


    The Golden Core Realm cultivators on the ship were slightly taken aback and looked at each other in confusion as they did not recognize the female cultivator in front of them.


    The Golden Core cultivator in the green robe was the first to respond, cupping his fist and bowing. "I am Chi Youquan, the guardian of this merchant ship. The shipowner hails from the Yulin Sect of the Taichu Empire. We do not know this female cultivator. Please do not misunderstand."


    The expressions of thete-stage Golden Core Realm cultivators eased up a bit. One of them said ndly, "If that is the case, join us in capturing this demoness. You will be rewarded."


    Senior Chi''s eyes flickered, and he nced at the female cultivator. To be pursued relentlessly by severalte-stage Golden Core Realm cultivators and still not be defeated indicated that she had to possess formidable strength. Or she might have an astonishing background. Chi Youquan didn''t want to get himself mixed up in any of this. That was especially the case after he had heard the name "Void Immortal Sword Sect." If it was the sect he knew, this trouble was not something he could get involved with easily.


    Fairy Yu suddenlyughed softly. "Everyone, you''ve chased me all the way here, but now you hesitate to act?"


    Herughter was enchanting, and the fierceness in her eyes softened as she exuded an incredibly seductive aura. The cultivators on the deck were mesmerized, and a strange thought rose in their minds.


    "Such a woman exists in this world..."


    The Golden Core Realm cultivators on the deck exchanged nces; even they had almost been tempted.


    "Everyone, this matter is not for us to meddle in. Please resolve it among yourselves," Senior Chi said slowly, cupping his fist.


    "Do you know who she is? She is an expelled disciple of the Void Immortal Sword Sect, a sword cultivator who fell into the demonic dao, massacring cultivators in the Central Continent Empire. She has reaped countless lives," one of thete-stage Golden Core Realm cultivators said while looking down at the others. "We are celestial soldiers under themand of Heavenly King Zhen from the Central Continent Empire. We have orders to hunt her down. Helping us capture her would be a great merit. Now that she is exhausted and out of spiritual energy, it is the perfect time to act. Do not miss this opportunity."


    His words caused the cultivators present to be deeply moved.


    <i>Central Continent Empire''s Void Immortal Sword Sect?!</i>


    <i>The woman in front of them was actually a sword cultivator who had fallen to the dark side?!</i>


    <i>And that Heavenly King... what kind of background was this!? Even the esteemedte Golden Core Realm cultivator imed to be his celestial soldiers...! Nameless soldiers!</i>


    The background of that Heavenly King had to be extremely intimidating for a Golden Core Realm cultivator to refer to themselves in such a way when under him.


    Elder Xu and the others couldn''t help but smile bitterly. How could they get mixed into this trouble on New Year''s Eve? Both of these sides were entities they couldn''t afford to provoke. It didn''t matter which side they picked.


    When the immortals fought, it was themon folk that suffered.


    Judging by the current situation, they feared that even Senior Chi wouldn''t be able to handle it.


    Looking at Fairy Yu, Fang Chen muttered, "Fell to the dark side...."


    His divine soul left his body as he silently observed the Fairy Yu. Her demeanor and temperament were indeedpletely different from before. Her rapid advancement to the Golden Core Realm might have a great connection with why she had fallen to the dark side.


    <i>But why!? Why did the Void Immortal Sword Sect not care about this matter, leaving it to other forces in the Central Continent Empire to handle?</i>


    Senior Chi¡¯s eyes were slightly unfocused. "H-Heavenly King Zhen...."


    Ever since he was young, he had heard the elders in the sect mention that in the Central Continent Empire, those who could be crowned as kings were all cultivators of the Upper Three Realms.


    The difference between those cultivators and the cultivators of the Lower Four Realms was too vast, like the difference between clouds and mud. They could eliminate an entire region on their own easily.


    "You guys are quite clever. You¡¯re afraid of falling into my hands, so you n to use them to test me?"


    Fairy Yu smiled lightly. "I am indeed depleted of spiritual energy now, there''s no need for this trouble. Go ahead and make your move; perhaps you will capture me and take me back for a reward."


    Those who were previously tempted suddenly realized an important point.


    Oh right. Why weren¡¯t thosete Golden Core Realm cultivators taking action themselves, but urging them to do it instead? It''s clearly an attempt for them to test the female cultivator!


    Although she was a disciple of the Void Immortal Sword Sect who had fallen to the dark side, she was still a sword cultivator through and through! A sword cultivator who was also a Golden Core Realm cultivator! Who knew how powerful her sword was?!


    Thinking of that, Senior Chi and the others took a few steps back subconsciously.


    "You all are truly a bunch of useless people, not knowing how to cherish the opportunity to ascend to the heavens that lies before you."


    e Golden Core Realm cultivator couldn''t help but curse and look at his teammates. "If we join forces to attack her, even if she''s hiding some tricks, she won''t be able to wipe us outpletely! If we can capture this woman, there''s a chance for us to reach the Nascent Soul Realm. In fact, there¡¯s even hope to step into the Middle Three Realms!"


    Thinking of the generous rewards from Heavenly King Zhen, the eyes of those Golden Core Realm cultivators became heated. However, after a few breaths, they still showed no intention of taking action. Evidently, no one is willing to take this risk. If the opponent had been fleeing, it would have been fine, but the fact that she stopped indicated that she was preparing some kind of attack.


    Quite a few Golden Core Realm cultivators had died at her handstely, including some who were at the grandpletion stage of the Golden Core Realm.


    A mid-stage Golden Core Realm cultivator on the deck suddenly spoke up. "If we capture her... is there really a chance to ascend to the Nascent Soul Realm?"


    The other Golden Core cultivators looked at him with surprise.


    "Heavenly King Zhen is an Upper Three Realms cultivator. Even the dirt under his fingernail might beparable to a high-grade spirit stone to all of you. All of you must be aware of how important high-grade spirit stones are to break through bottlenecks."


    Ate Golden Core Realm cultivator chuckled lightly. "The opportunity is right here. Treasure it well."


    <i>High-grade spirit stones!?</i>


    The cultivators on the deck became restless. Even some Foundation Building Realm and Qi Refining cultivators started looking at Fairy Yu with a sliver of greed in their eyes. Some were lusting after her beauty, but most were lusting after the hidden treasures on her!


    Forget about high-grade spirit stones! For the cultivators on the ship, even mid-grade spirit stones were beyond their reach!


    A Golden Core Realm cultivator suddenly raised his sleeve. "Youngdy, please forgive us."


    A sharp flying sword flew out, aiming directly at Fairy Yu¡¯s back.


    Fairy Yu simply waved her sword lightly, and the opponent''s flying sword was instantly annihted by the sword light, along with the Golden Core Realm cultivator. Before he died, endless regret and self-me appeared on his face.


    Everyone watched as the spot where the Golden Core Realm cultivator had just stood turned into a small pile of ashes as they fell into silence.


    Fang Chen recognized that sword. "The Void Immortal Sword...."


    The female sword cultivator had used that technique before, and it had reduced her lifespan when she used it. In contrast, Fairy Yu''s lifespan didn''t seem to have been affected.

 Chapter 496: Desperate Situation

    <h4>Chapter 496: Desperate Situation</h4>


    When they saw Fairy Yu annihte a Golden Core Realm cultivator with a single sword strike, the fourte-stage Golden Core Realm cultivators who were standing in the void were not angry but rather pleased. They had guessed correctly; Fairy Yu had indeed been preparing a sword intent earlier to attack them, but fortunately, they had avoided it. Using that sword strike had to have greatly weakened her!


    "Don''t be afraid. She can''t unleash a second sword strike; otherwise, it will shorten her lifespan and she''ll die," ate Golden Core Realm cultivator said to Senior Chi and the others.


    "This demoness has plundered the lifespan of many cultivators in the Central Continent Empire, but along the way, she''s also quickly depleting those lifespans. You will soon achieve great merit," anotherte Golden Core Realm cultivator tempted them.


    Everyone was stunned. Even Senior Chi and the others hadn''t heard of someone plundering lifespan before. "Even lifespan can be plundered? Is this the legendary first-tier empire? Each cultivator is so terrifying?!"


    Whether you were a mortal or cultivator, lifespan was a gift from the Heavenly Dao. Cultivators contend with the Heavens for lifespan; they understood that much. However, plundering lifespan from cultivators... that was unheard of.


    That Golden Core Realm cultivator''s death had been a lesson for all of them, so despite how the Golden Core soldiers tried to tempt them, Senior Chi and the others remained unmoved.


    Opportunities were indeed important, but nothing outweighed their life.


    They had cultivated for hundreds of years before they were able to reach their cultivation of the Golden Core Realm. They finally achieved a certain status and respect in the cultivation world. They wouldn''t throw all this way by dying. It wasn''t worth it at all.


    Ate Golden Core Realm cultivator suddenly sneered. "A bunch of country bumpkins who overvalue their lives. They''re truly fools. If there were other Central Continent Empire cultivators here, they would definitely not miss this golden opportunity for a chance at this fate."


    Realizing that the soldier was trying to provoke them into acting, Senior Chi and the others exchanged nces. The soldiers'' actions strengthened their resolve.


    <i>They shouldn''t act hastily!</i>


    "It seems they are quite clever." Fairy Yu chuckled lightly and said to the fourte Golden Core cultivators in the sky, "If you want to capture me and im a reward, thene at me yourselves. Are youte afraid of a mere early Golden Core Realm cultivator like me?"


    When the four individuals saw that Senior Chi and the others had no intention of making a move, their expressions turned dark.


    Just as both sides were in a stalemate, a few figures flew in from afar.


    "The demoness is here!"


    Those figures were also Golden Core Realm cultivators, and they appeared surprised at the sight of Fairy Yu.


    These Golden Core Realm cultivators wore different attire from the Celestial Soldiers. They were clearly from a different group.


    The four looked toward the neers. "Are you from the Central Continent Empire?"


    Upon seeing the attire of the four, the neers were shocked, and one of them sped his fist. "Are you under Heavenly King Zhen''smand?"


    "Indeed."


    The four smirked slightly, realizing that these Golden Core cultivators were indeed from the Central Continent Empire; otherwise, they wouldn''t recognize their identities.


    "You arrived just in time. Let''s take down this woman together."


    The neers appeared troubled, and one of them pointed out, "But if we fight here, it might affect the cultivators on this ship."


    The four exchanged looks and sneered. "Capturing the demoness is the priority. As for them, it¡¯s up to fate."


    They were clearly not concerned with the lives of the ship''s passengers.


    The Golden Core Realm cultivators on the deck wouldn''t be too troubled. Although they might not find a ce tond in the vast sea, their cultivation was high enough to deal with various dangers.


    The Foundation Building Realm and Qi Refining Realm cultivators, on the other hand, turned pale.


    If something were to happen to this ship, they might die at sea. For cultivators, the boundless sea harbored many unprecedented dangers. Without a ce tond, most would likely perish in the sea!


    Senior Chi sped his fist and said with an unpleasant expression. "This matter has nothing to do with the Yulin Sect. Please don''t involve us in your fight."


    A Golden Core Realm cultivator under Heavenly King Zhen said with a sly smile, "If you can find a way to make her leave, then you won''t be affected."


    "This..."


    Everyone looked at each other. The scene of the female cultivator killing the Golden Core Realm cultivator with a sword strike was still vivid in their minds. What could they do to make her leave?


    "Senior, we don''t dare interfere in your grudges with them. Please spare us and don''t involve us," a brave cultivator spoke up.


    Many Foundation Building Realm and Qi Refining Realm cultivators followed suit, speaking sincerely but pleading for Fairy Yu to leave the ship.


    Fairy Yu revealed a mocking expression and ignored them.


    Suddenly, a Qi Refining Realm cultivator gathered his courage and spoke up. "Senior... could you please leave...?"


    He was standing next to a woman. She was holding a baby in swaddling clothes in her arms. Fairy Yu nced at them, then at the baby in the swaddle, unaware of what had happened to it. She suddenly sneered. "I just stopped to rest my feet. Now that my spiritual energy has recovered a little, I can easily kill a few Golden Core Realm cultivators for fun."


    The Golden Core cultivators in the sky tightened their expressions slightly upon hearing her words. Had she really regained some spiritual energy in such a short time?


    "<i>Hehe,</i> don''t pretend to be mysterious. Using the Void Immortal Sword consumes your lifespan. Otherwise, how could a mere early Golden Core like you hurt us?"


    Fairy Yuughed. "Thene and try."


    The Golden Core Realm cultivator fell silent immediately.


    Suddenly, a female cultivator among thete Golden Core Realm frowned and said, "You used to be an outstanding disciple of the Void Immortal Sword Sect. It''s said that the peak master of the Extreme Sword Peak used to hold you in high regard.


    "But now, you have disappointed them by falling into darkness. How do your former friends and family view you? It''s better toe with us to see Heavenly King Zhen and try to resolve the sins on you. Perhaps you can be spared. Surely you can¡¯t go against all the Golden Core Realm cultivators in the Central Continent?"


    Fairy Yu''s expression didn''t fluctuate one bit, but there was a hint of strangeness in her demeanor due to this statement.


    A fleeting look of destion shed in her eyes, and she smiled lightly, "Follow you and see that old scoundrel Heavenly King Zhen? He''s just as corrupt as the rest. Either you try to capture me now, or I''ll kill you. Those are the only two options, choose one."


    "Stubborn as ever. I suggest you stop trying to reason with her," one of the celestial soldiers said, "This witch has caused great havoc in the Central Continent, and she won''t repent. Let''s join forces to take her down. If we can''t capture her alive, we can still receive a reward for her death."


    The celestial soldiers hadpletely lost patience, mainly because they feared that the longer they waited, the harder it would be to deal with her as she regained her strength.


    The expressions of people like Senior Chi turned strange. If the eight Golden Core Realm cultivators in the sky joined forces, and they joined in the fray... perhaps they could easily take down the woman. In that case, they would also have some credit.


    "Have you made your decision? Will you join forces with us? We can share the credit," one of the celestial soldiers suddenly looked at Senior Chi and the others.


    They hesitated for a moment, exchanged nces, and made up their minds.


    "If you are willing, we can also contribute to the Central Continent," Senior Chi said with folded hands.


    The situation had reached a conclusion.


    The eyes of the cultivators on the ship looked at the Fairy Yu as if they were looking at a corpse.


    With a dozen or so Golden Core Realm cultivators joining forces, how could she possibly survive?


    It was clearly a desperate situation.

 Chapter 497: Don’t Disturb Me When I’m Speaking

    <h4>Chapter 497: Don¡¯t Disturb Me When I¡¯m Speaking </h4>


    When Fairy Yu saw that the Golden Core Realm cultivators were showing signs of joining forces, she chuckled. "I can''t unleash my full power here. Let''s take the fight to the sky."


    The cultivators on the ship breathed a sigh of relief. However, they couldn''t help but feel that something was amiss. These people were all targeting the demoness, but she still didn''t want them to be swept by the aftermath of the fight.


    "The matters above are tooplicated," Elder Xu said with aplex expression.


    As they were just Foundation Building Realm cultivators, they couldn''t participate in an event of this magnitude.


    "The demoness is cunning, beware of her tricks. Attack!"


    One of Heavenly King Zhen¡¯s celestial soldiers suddenly made a move, as spiritual energy surged and turned into a tide of arrows shooting swiftly toward Fairy Yu. These arrows not only enveloped her but also covered almost half of the ship''s cultivators. Some of it even seemed deliberately aimed at the elderly and weak.


    Fairy Yu frowned slightly. She sighed softly and used her remaining spiritual energy to create a barrier, protecting the entire ship.


    After withstanding the barrage of light arrows, the spiritual energy barrier copsed. At that moment, almost all the Golden Core Realm cultivators present could see that this female cultivator was on herst leg!


    The celestial soldiers sneered, and one of them said, "As expected... you havepletely depleted your spiritual energy. The damage from thatst sword must have been substantial."


    All the Golden Core Realm cultivators present realized that the opponent had used this method to probe the female cultivator''s true strength. This caused them to breathe a sigh of relief, as a Golden Core Realm sword cultivator whose spiritual energy waspletely depleted didn''t seem difficult to handle.


    "What tricks do you still have?" the Golden Core Realm cultivator taunted. "You might as well surrender and save us some trouble."


    Facing the aggressive attitude of the Golden Core Realm cultivator, Fairy Yu simply sneered contemptuously without responding. However, the cultivators on the ship exchanged looks as a surge of anger rose in their hearts.


    It was clear that this Golden Core Realm cultivator was using their lives as a shield for themselves! If it weren''t for the female cultivator¡¯s intervention, they would have suffered heavy casualties! However, since they were a Golden Core Realm cultivator, they dared not say anything and could only suppress their anger.


    The four celestial soldiers chuckled. "She''s out of tricks now. What are we waiting for?"


    The Golden Core Realm cultivators looked at each other and slowly approached Fairy Yu with vignce, ready to defend against any sudden attacks.


    However, this advancing situation suddenly came to a halt due to something unexpected. Everyone frowned as they saw a figure walk toward the demoness alone.


    The Golden Core Realm cultivators present sneered. "Is this junior trying tond thest blow to steal the credit?"


    No matter what, it would not be easy for a junior to kill a sword cultivator even if their spiritual energy was depleted.


    "Does he also want to meddle in this matter...?" Elder Xu''s eyes flickered slightly.


    Fairy Yu sensed someone approaching her and looked with a cold sneer. However, when she took a closer look at who it was, her expression stiffened. Her heart pounded uncontrobly, and her hands even trembled lightly. However, she quickly suppressed her excitement and regained herposure.


    She said indifferently, "Junior, you''re not even a Golden Core Realm cultivator, so don''t get involved in this matter. Leave now and I''ll spare your life."


    Fang Chen remained indifferent and continued walking toward her.


    Her voice became even more stern, "Don''te any closer to me!"


    Fang Chen had already reached her side by now.


    Everyone was stunned. Even the group of Golden Core Realm cultivators in the sky couldn''t understand why the female cultivator hadn''t done anything to the junior.


    Had she just been bluffing the whole time? Could it be that she really couldn''t even handle a junior?


    The Golden Core realm cultivators became extremely excited at that thought.


    Fang Chen smiled gently as he tidied up the messy hair on Fairy Yu''s shoulders. "Don''t you recognize me?"


    The spections in everyone''s minds came to a halt, and some of them looked at the scene with disbelief.


    <i>Do these two... know each other? </i>


    Among them, the group led by Senior Chi was the most shocked. The young man in front of them was clearly a passenger on their ship, and just before this incident urred, they were nning to investigate him for murder.


    The cultivator surnamed Zhou by Senior Chi¡¯s side couldn''t help but take a cold breath as he looked at Fang Chen and Fairy Yu with suspicion. <i>This guy... knows the abandoned disciple of the Void Immortal Sword Sect!? Is he rted to the Void Immortal Sword Sect? </i>


    The cultivator surnamed Zhou felt uneasy and couldn''t help but transmit his voice. "<i>Uncle...</i>"


    Senior Chi''s expression became solemn as he transmitted, "D<i>on''t worry, even if his background is extraordinary, now that he''s getting close to this witch, he''s already an enemy of Heavenly King Zhen of the Central Continent Empire, and those Golden Core Realm cultivators won''t let him off. It''s fortunate that we encountered this incident; otherwise, you and I would have had a difficult time.</i>"


    That cultivator surnamed Zhou breathed a sigh of relief. He finally understood why that cultivator had killed people aboard the ship so flippantly. That guy was very likely from the Central Continent Empire too!


    "E-Elder Xu... Who exactly is this person!?"


    The young Foundation Building Realm cultivator who had dinner with them earlier knew the abandoned Void Immortal Sword Sect disciple, and... their rtionship seemed a bitplicated.


    Several other Foundation Building Realm cultivators were all stunned as they looked at Elder Xu subconsciously.


    "<i>Gentlemen, this person¡¯s background is not simple, and his cultivation level is not as he imed,</i>" Elder Xu transmitted.


    He then fell silent, looking somewhat solemn.


    "He knows Demoness Yu?!"


    "What''s their rtionship?"


    The Golden Core Realm cultivators who cameter were somewhat uncertain. However, the four under Heavenly King Zhen''smand let out a coldugh. "Since he''s so close to the demoness, they must be birds of a feather. Capturing them together is only natural."


    Fairy Yu stared fixedly at Fang Chen, trying hard to keep her expression cold and serious. However, she couldn''t control the tears rolling down her eyes.


    "She''s actually crying?"


    Everyone couldn''t believe it. That terrifying sword cultivator who could easily y Golden Core Realm cultivators... was now actually crying because of a young man!


    Suddenly, Fairy Yu took a step back and locked her gaze on Fang Chen. "Junior, step back."


    "What''s the matter? Can''t we solve it together? Are you afraid of burdening me?" Fang Chen smiled. "There''s nothing in this world that can sever the connection between you and me. Being afraid of this and that isn''t your style."


    In the end, Fairy Yu couldn''t hold it in anymore, and shemented, "Lord... I''ve killed many people...."


    Just then, a sh of sword light suddenly attacked the two. A Golden Core Realm cultivator saw that Fairy Yu was distracted and wanted to take advantage of the situation.


    Fang Chen raised his hand with a sword and the Golden Core Realm cultivator who attempted the sneak attack was instantly obliterated under the sword light. He had been one of the celestial soldiers.


    Everyone gasped in unison, shocked. They couldn''t believe what they saw.


    <i>A sword cultivator! Another sword cultivator!</i>


    They finally understood why the two knew each other; they were both sword cultivators!


    "So, he¡¯s also a sword cultivator..." Elder Xu murmured to himself.


    Senior Chi and his nephew looked extremely solemn. If Fang Chen didn''t dieter, they might end up in trouble.


    Fang Chen looked at the Golden Core Realm cultivators in the sky and spoke softly. "I''m speaking, don''t interrupt. Understood?"


    After a few breaths, they nodded reluctantly.


    The methods of this sword cultivator before them... were obviously stronger than Demoness Yu. He was cutting down Golden Core Realm cultivators without hesitation....


    The situation seemed a bit unusual.

 Chapter 498: We live only once, striving for a clear conscience is all that matters

    <h4>Chapter 498: We live only once, striving for a clear conscience is all that matters</h4>


    Fang Chen smiled. He understood why Fairy Yu hesitated to acknowledge him. "So, it''s because you''ve killed many people... that''s why you''re afraid of seeing me."


    Fairy Yu shook her head as her tears fell like pearls. "Lord, I''m different from before... I don''t want you to see me like this."


    Fang Chen sighed lightly. "Silly girl, let me ask you: do you have a clear conscience?"


    <i>A clear conscience?</i>


    Various scenes shed through Fairy Yu''s mind, all the battles and killings she had experienced over the past decade. After a moment, she nodded slightly. "I have a clear conscience. I killed those people because they wanted to kill me."


    "So, have you ever really changed?" Fang Chen smiled. "Even if the sky falls, I can bear it for you. If I can''t, we''ll figure out another way. It¡¯s better than you pretending not to know me like now."


    "Lord, they all call me a witch, a demoness. Are you really not bothered? Haven''t I be the type of person you''ve hated all your life...."


    Fairy Yu stared at Fang Chen, who stepped forward and covered her mouth.


    "Just treat their nder like a fart. Even I have people who see me as a demon and want to kill my entire family." Fang Chen smiled faintly. "Caring too much about what others say makes life less enjoyable. We live only once, striving for a clear conscience is all that matters."


    Fairy Yu''s long-held grievances finally dissipated because of Fang Chen''s words.


    She finally smiled, and it was a smile that was vastly different from before, radiating boundless vitality to those around her. If her previous smile was like the cool moonlight, now it was as warm and intense as the sun. Unconsciously, everyone seemed immersed in that smile.


    "Sir, Demoness Yu is now an enemy of the Central Continent Empire. All Golden Core Realm cultivators are pursuing her. Regardless of any past rtionship you may have, you should avoid associating with her," a celestial soldier spoke, his gaze heavy on Fang Chen.


    The other two celestial soldiers cursed inwardly. They were truly unlucky to bump into an unidentified sword cultivator, and it was also one who could defeat ate stage Golden Core Realm cultivator.


    They were in a quagmire now.


    "Lord, what they say is correct. Currently, all the Golden Core in the Central Continent Empire are hunting me down, and I''ve heard that my bounty is quite high," Fairy Yu said as she held Fang Chen''s arm, her head gently resting on his shoulder, as if discussing something unrted to herself.


    "Just Golden Core Realm cultivators? Hasn''t a Nascent Soul Realm expert made a move?" Fang Chen asked casually.


    "The Void Immortal Sword Sect and Heavenly King Zhen had an agreement. Only cultivators of the same level can pursue me. Otherwise, ten thousand sword cultivators will descend upon his residence." Fairy Yu smiled. "Outsiders all say I''m a disciple abandoned by the Void Immortal Sword Sect, but I understand the ancestors. This is all they can do."


    Another celestial soldier suddenly became furious, holding a piece of bronze mirror as if aiming it at Fang Chen. "Wait, you''re also a disciple of the Void Immortal Sword Sect!?"


    "Your affiliation is with the Void Immortal Sword Sect! You clearly promised not to interfere in this matter. Why didn''t you keep your promise?"


    Fairy Yu was about to exin through voice transmission, but Fang Chen smiled first and said, "That was an elder who registered me in the Immortal Register after I died. Truth be told, I haven''t spent a single day in the Void Immortal Sword Sect, so I can''t be considered a disciple of the sect."


    Fairy Yu was somewhat shocked. "How did you know, lord?"


    Fang Chen said softly, "I didn''t actually die at that time, so I could see everything, but you couldn''t hear or see me."


    "I see..." Fairy Yu murmured to herself.


    "Should we kill them all?" Fang Chen asked with a light smile.


    "My spiritual energy is depleted. This time, I''ll have to rely on you to protect me," Fairy Yu said cunningly. She immediately sat down cross-legged on the floor to recover.


    The Golden Core Realm cultivators aboard were a bit frightened when they heard Fang Chen''s words, especially the several celestial soldiers under themand of the Heavenly King of Town.


    "We are celestial soldiers under Heavenly King Zhen. Now that you''ve killed one of us already, you have vited thews of the the Central Continent Empire. If you dare to kill again..."


    "What then? I''ll be any enemy of the Golden Core Realm cultivators of the Central Continent Empire? Let theme and try to find me," Fang Chen said lightly.


    He then drew a few swords in the air as if painting with ink, creating a bloody scene.


    The Golden Core Realm cultivators in the sky all turned into dismembered parts in an instant. A surge of spiritual energy pulled their storage rings into Fang Chen''s hands.


    Pin-drop silence.


    Senior Chi and the others gulped reflexively. They didn''t dare to take a single breath. The legs of several Golden Core Realm cultivators were trembling faintly.


    He killed a thete stage Golden Core Realm cultivators just like that...


    <i>Was the attacking power of sword cultivators really this terrifying?! </i>


    This is was the first time they have felt this way in many years. It felt as if life and death was only a thought from him.


    Fang Chen looked at Senior Chi and the others. "Are you going to choose to suicide, or...?"


    <i>Suicide?!</i>


    The Golden Core Realm cultivators were sweating profusely, and one of them stammered, "D-Daoist... we haven''t even made a move, we''re not even cultivators from the Central Continent Empire...."


    "You were just about to join hands with them on her, so you''re aplices now." Fang Chen smiled and then pointed at Senior Chi. "Just like him, even though he has never actively shown himself, he can''t erase the fact that he''s been colluding with Chen Sheng all these years."


    Senior Chi was shocked, and his face scrunched up with horror.


    <i>Chen Sheng?!</i>


    Many cultivators on the ship looked strange, and some couldn''t help but want to speak up.


    Nan Tian couldn''t help butugh wildly. "Senior Chi, do you still have anything to say now? This senior knows about your dealings with Chen Sheng, so you can''t deny it anymore, can you? As a Golden Core Realm cultivator who engaged in such lowly activities, you were bound to face retribution sooner orter."


    Although Nan Tian was scolding him, Senior Chi didn''t dare retort. His mind raced like lightning, trying to find a way out.


    The nearby cultivator named Zhou felt guilty and said, "Don''t falsely use my uncle. We have no rtion to Chen Sheng. If you have the ability, make him show up and ask him!"


    Fang Chen suddenlyughed. "Isn''t he dead?"


    The cultivator surnamed Zhou was slightly stunned at first. Soon, he took a sharp breath.


    <i>No wonder! I finally know who killed Chen Sheng!</i>


    "Sir, there is indeed some connection between me and Chen Sheng, but it''s not something I wanted. I''m willing to offer everything. Just spare my life," Senior Chi suddenly spoke, respectfully taking off his storage ring and raising it high in front of Fang Chen, bowing deeply.


    The other Golden Core Realm cultivators behind him followed suit quickly. Today, being able to keep their lives was worth any price!


    "If you''re dead, all of this belongs to me." Fang Chen shook his head lightly.


    "Go!" Suddenly, a Golden Core Realm cultivator erupted, turning into a stream of light as he tried to escape. The others followed suit.


    However, before they could escape a mile, they were all cut down by the sword light from behind.


    When the cultivator surnamed Zhou saw Senior Chi turning into fragments before his eyes. He didn''t know when, but his lower body was already wet, and a foul stench pervaded.


    Now, apart from those who hadn''t shown themselves and were hiding in secluded rooms, all the Golden Core Realm cultivators on the ship''s deck had beenpletely wiped out...

 Chapter 499: Gai Wu

    <h4>Chapter 499: Gai Wu</h4>


    "Brother Xia... is actually a sword cultivator who can freely y Golden Core Realm cultivators?!"


    The cultivator from Dragon Soaring Pavilion arrivedte. Then, when Che Yuxuan saw one Golden Core after another being harvested by sword light, his face filled with shock.


    The deck was very quiet. In just a dozen breaths, thirty or so Golden Core Realm cultivators had fallen.


    Fang Chen collected the storage rings left by those Golden Core Realm cultivators and directly threw the high-grade, yellow-rank treasures to Little Sword. Dozens of high-grade, yellow-rank treasures were equivalent to two or three top-grade, yellow-rank treasures.


    Little Sword happily devoured them, rapidly growing stronger with each treasure it devoured.


    Among them, the storage rings of the four celestial soldiers and Senior Chi contained a considerable amount of spirit stones, almost equaling the total of the rest of the Golden Core cultivatorsbined. Altogether, there were more than seventy thousand spirit stones, which was quite a substantial ie.


    Fairy Yu was still recovering and meditating.


    Fang Chen looked at everyone and said lightly, "Tonight is New Year''s Eve, everyone. Continue to eat and drink well. No need to mind the two of us."


    "Yes...."


    Everyone nodded subconsciously and returned to their seats, but the atmosphere couldn''t return to what it was before. They were all sitting straight and speaking in low voices, afraid of disturbing the two.


    Fang Chen sat next to Fairy Yu and took out Mirror of the Universe. "Little Mirror, what is the origin of Heavenly King Zhen?"


    "Do you want detailed information or just general information?" asked Mirror of the Universe.


    Fang Chen replied, ¡°Of course I need detailed information. How many low-grade spirit stones do you require?¡±


    Fairy Yu''s current situation was rted to Heavenly King Zhen. If that guy wanted to go after Fairy Yu, it was the same as going against Fang Chen. Fang Chen had learned from his military experience that knowing oneself and knowing the enemy was the key to victory.


    "For detailed information, ten thousand low-grade spirit stones are enough. For general information, only five hundred low-grade spirit stones are needed," Mirror of the Universe replied.


    Fang Chen''s eyes flickered. ¡°Why is there such a big difference?¡±


    "In the Central Continent, Heavenly King Zhen''s reputation is resounding. Even ordinary people know about it, so it''s naturally not worth much."


    Fang Chen nodded slightly, took out ten thousand low-grade spirit stones, and tossed them to Mirror of the Universe. That was equivalent to using a top-grade, yellow-rank treasure to exchange for detailed information about a big shot, which seemed worthwhile no matter how you looked at it.


    Water elemental energy permeated around Fang Chen, forming a mist that enveloped the two of them, making it impossible for onlookers to discern anything even if some cultivators were peeking sneakily.


    After Mirror of the Universe consumed the spirit stones, it immediately signaled Fang Chen to flip to page seventy-nine where rows of words began to appear.


    [Heavenly King Zhen. Secr Name: Honored Gai]


    [Ranked 67th on the Emperor''s Ranking, a cultivator in the Ascension Realm.]


    [The territory of Heavenly King Zhen¡¯s residence spans millions of miles, with endless experts. Heavenly King Zhen has two sons and one daughter. The eldest son, Gai Hong, is a cultivator in the middle three realms, specifically at the Fusion Realm, and is the emperor of the second-tier empire, Giant Antler!]


    [The second daughter, Gai Yunnuo, is a cultivator in the Soul Splitting Realm. She is the empress of the second-tier empire, Celestial Dome.]


    [The third son, Gai Wu, is a Golden Core Realm cultivator, and is the child most favored by the Heavenly King Zhen. Recently, his foundation has been crippled recently, and he has no hope of advancing further.]


    ¡°Brother, because only a few powerful cultivators are aware of this information, it''s considered detailed. There is even more detailed information, but it requires more low-grade spirit stones, which you probably can''t produce right now,¡± added Mirror of the Universe.


    ¡°Ranked 67th on the Emperor''s Ranking? In the Ascension Realm... doesn''t that qualify as a First Rate Sect Leader?¡± Fang Chen pondered.


    ¡°Certainly not a First Rate Sect Leader. Those who can be called First Rate Sect Leaders here are fellows who failed their ascension and became Loose Immortals. They can be considered half-immortals. Heavenly King Zhen is still far from that stage,¡± Mirror of the Universe said somewhat disdainfully.


    Fang Chen''s gaze gradually became serious. The gap between him and the Heavenly King Zhen was like that of an ant on the groundpared to the sun, moon, and stars in the sky. Fortunately, the Void Immortal Sword Sect had notpletely abandoned Fairy Yu. At least, they made the Heavenly King Zhen wary enough to only allow cultivators of the same level to hunt her down.


    ¡°Who was it that destroyed Gai Wu''s foundation?¡± Fang Chen asked casually as he looked at Fairy Yu.


    It was no surprise that Fairy Yu was being hunted down due to this matter, and the one who might have destroyed Gai Wu''s foundation could very well be her. That could exin why the Void Immortal Sword Sect would allow Fairy Yu to be hunted down like that with their temperaments as sword cultivators.


    ¡°Brother, you can ask her about these matterster. There''s no need to waste spirit stones,¡± the Mirror of the Universe advised.


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. ¡°How many low-grade spirit stones are needed for a detailed profile of Senior Yun He from the Three Thousand Dao Sect, and is it a considerable amount?¡±


    ¡°You will need mid-grade spirit stones to obtain a detailed profile of this person, and quite a number of them too,¡± Mirror of the Universe replied.


    Fang Chen smiled. ¡°Then there''s no need.¡±


    He already got the answer he wanted. Senior Yun He''s detailed information was more expensive than that of Heavenly King Zhen, even requiring mid-grade spirit stones. It indicated that his strength should be above that of Heavenly King Zhen.


    However, the way Mirror of the Universe priced the questions was somewhat unique. Some questions were mainly priced based on how many people knew about the matter, rather than the nature of the question itself. For example, Fang Chen''s question on the whereabouts of Xia Xuanji and Fang Cangyue required a sky-high price.


    Several days passed in the blink of an eye. Even though Senior Chi had died, the ship continued to operate as usual, heading toward the direction of Tai Chu. However, no one dared to tread lightly on the deck these days, fearing that they might disturb Fang Chen and Fairy Yu.


    Fairy Yu suddenly opened her eyes. When she saw Fang Chen beside her, a rxed smile found its way to her lips.


    She said, ¡°It has been a long time since I''ve had a rest like this."


    This was the first time she felt rxed in recent years, both mentally and physically. She felt extremely safe with Fang Chen by her side.


    ¡°Have you rested well? How did those Golden Core Realm cultivators manage to find your whereabouts?¡± Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    Fairy Yu gently leaned against Fang Chen''s chest, shaking her head slightly. ¡°I don''t know. Every few days, or sometimes even daily, they will find me. It''s quite annoying.¡±


    Fang Chen nned to ask Mirror of the Universeter to see what was going on and if there was a way to resolve it.


    ¡°How did the grudge between you and the Heavenly King Zhen start? Is it rted to his third son, Gai Wu?¡± Fang Chen asked.


    Fairy Yu was somewhat surprised. ¡°Lord, you also know that scoundrel?¡±


    Even in the Central Continent Empire, not many people knew about Gai Wu. That guy was not very old and was in his early thirties. If it wasn''t for Gai Wuing to the Void Immortal Sword Sect, she would have never known about such a person.


    Fang Chen softly nodded as he looked at Fairy Yu.


    After thinking for a moment, Fairy Yu began, ¡°Indeed, the incident did start because of Gai Wu. That year, I returned with my senior sister to enter seclusion and coincidentally encountered him, who was visiting the Void Immortal Sword Sect.


    "As he is the third son of the Heavenly King Zhen, he had many privileges. As long as he didn''t wander into the restricted areas, he could go anywhere he wants."


    A hint of disgust appeared in Fairy Yu''s eyes. "But he shouldn''t have. He shouldn''t have opened the door to my seclusion chamber at the moment of my breakthrough to the Foundation Building Realm!¡±


    Through her narration, Fang Chen came to understand the whole incident. Gai Wu had a reckless temperament, and being the third son of the Heavenly King Zhen, he had acted without restraint. Seeing Fairy Yu''s captivating appearance, he had disregarded the fact that she had been breaking through to the Foundation Building Realm and tried to make advances on her. That led to Fairy Yu''s spiritual energy reversing, causing her to go into a demonic state.


    Even then, he had shown no remorse!

 Chapter 500: Inverse Immortal Demonic Embryo

    Chapter 500: Inverse Immortal Demonic Embryo


    Fairy Yuughed gently. ¡°Lord, I really thought I was going to die and suffer from his humiliation. I was thinking how great it would be if you were by my side."


    Fang Chen looked down at her in a daze. Despite her smiling face and how she talked as if it was unrted to her, he could imagine how desperate she must have been at that moment.


    Fang Chen softly patted Fairy Yu''s shoulder. ¡°What happened then?¡±


    ¡°Perhaps it wasn''t my time to die yet. After my spiritual energy reversed and I went berserk, I suddenly found that my strength greatly increased. Even a Golden Core Realm cultivator like Gai Wu was no match for me,¡± Fairy Yu said as she touched her abdomen. ¡°A Golden Core formed here... but I don''t know if it is a Golden Core because it''s ck.¡±


    Fairy Yu continued casually, ¡°At that time, I didn''t think much about it. Since I had the ability to fight back, I naturally dismembered Gai Wu. I cut off his limbs, shattered his Golden Core, and even beheaded him. Unfortunately, the elders arrived in time to save him. After understanding what had happened, one of the elders examined the Golden Core in my body, and their expressions became very strange.¡±


    She paused for a moment.


    Then, Fairy Yu said, ¡°I went to see the Extreme Sword Peak Master and learned from her that my Golden Core is called the Inverse Immortal Demonic Embryo. Many years ago, a sword cultivator in the Void Immortal Sword Sect experienced a simr phenomenon and formed an Inverse Immortal Demonic Embryo, bing a great demon of the era, ughtering countless people.


    ¡°This is the reason why they now call me a demoness, saying that I will inevitably be a great demon and bring cmity to the world.¡±


    Fang Chen frowned slightly. ¡°Inverse Immortal Demonic Embryo?¡± Fairy Yu looked up at Fang Chen. ¡°Lord, are you also worried that I will also be a great demon?¡±


    Fang Chen softly shook his head. ¡°No, I am thinking about what it actually is.¡±


    He took out Mirror of the Universe and asked it, ¡°Little Mirror, what is the origin of the Inverse Immortal Demonic Embryo?¡±


    ¡°Brother, this might require high-grade spirit stones.... The Inverse Immortal Demonic Embryo is not something that should exist in the mortal realm¡­.¡±


    <em>High-grade spirit stones?!</em>


    Fang Chen was stunned. He never expected that the Golden Core within Fairy Yu would have such a terrifying origin, so much so that even the Mirror of the Universe would need high-grade spirit stones to provide an answer.


    Fang Chen said in a serious tone, ¡°I''ll owe you for now. I¡¯ll pay you back when I have them.¡±


    ¡°Brother, please don¡¯t make it difficult for me. I exist because of rules. If I break the rules, I will cease to exist...¡± replied Mirror of the Universe, sounding very troubled.


    Fang Chen went silent for a few moments before saying, ¡°Then can you at least tell me why those Golden Core Realm cultivators can find Fairy Yu?¡±


    ¡°Her aura has already been locked onto. With your current cultivation and methods, you cannot remove it for her. I fear that those in this world who have the ability to remove it will not take action. If nothing unexpected happens, her fate is to be hunted until she dies,¡± Mirror of the Universe replied.


    Fang Chen¡¯s expression turned grim. ¡°Is there really no way at all?¡±


    <em>How could there be such an absolute situation in this world!?</em>


    ¡°There are some temporary solutions. For example, consuming a saint-grade spiritual herb such as the Vast Origin Fruit which can sever all karma for a hundred years for the one who consumes it.


    ¡°Without karma, it will naturally be difficult to lock onto her aura using any means. However, this spiritual herb is rare and expensive.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s rare? That means it does exist. Where can I find it?¡± asked Fang Chen.


    Even if it only gave them ten years, he would strive for it.


    Mirror of the Universe hesitated then said, ¡°This information... will cost you twenty thousand low-grade spirit stones. Are you sure you want it? Even if you know where the Vast Origin Fruit is, you might not be able to afford it.¡±


    Now that Mirror of the Universe was with Fang Chen, it naturally didn¡¯t want him to be burdened with troubles. It only wanted to gather enough spiritual energy peacefully.


    Fang Chen took out twenty thousand low-grade spirit stones without hesitation and tossed them to the Mirror of the Universe.


    ¡°Lord, what are you doing?¡± Fairy Yu asked curiously.


    ¡°Buying information,¡± replied Fang Chen, smiling and waiting patiently.


    Mirror of the Universe quickly finished absorbing the spirit stones and provided an address.


    [Greenwood Sect, Central Continent Empire].


    <em>The Greenwood Sect?</em>


    Fang Chen was slightly taken aback and instinctively took out the Greenwood Token to examine it. He didn¡¯t expect that the Greenwood Sect would have the Vast Origin Fruit. Recalling what the elder had mentioned before, it seemed that this sect was indeed focused on spiritual herbs.


    ¡°Little Yu, do you know about the Greenwood Sect?¡± Fang Chen suddenly asked.


    ¡°The Greenwood Sect? I¡¯ve heard of it. The cultivators of this sect are quite knowledgeable about cultivating spiritual herbs and have some reputation in the Central Continent Empire.¡± Fairy Yu nodded lightly, her eyes filled with curiosity. ¡°Lord, why are you suddenly mentioning the Greenwood Sect?¡±


    ¡°The Greenwood Sect has a certain spiritual herb. If you consume it, you will no longer be found by those Golden Core Realm cultivators for the next hundred years.¡± Fang Chen smiled. ¡°We will set off for the Greenwood Sect right now.¡±


    Fairy Yu was silent for a moment and then shook her head gently. ¡°Your Highness, seeing you once more has already satisfied me. I cannot follow you to the Central Continent Empire.¡±


    ¡°Why? Are you afraid of implicating me? It¡¯s just Golden Core Realm cultivators. Do you think I can¡¯t handle them?¡± Fang Chen chuckled softly. ¡°I have a type of escape technique. If you practice it, you can easily escape even if you¡¯re facing Golden Core cultivators.¡±


    Fairy Yu was unaware of the power of the Shadow Buddha Technique. She was certain that if Fang Chen appeared with her in the Central Continent Empire, she wouldn¡¯t be the only person who would die.


    <em>I''m doomed anyway. How can I drag you down with me¡­.</em> Fairy Yu thought bitterly.


    She shook her head again. ¡°Lord, please listen to me this time. Do not travel with me. If it¡¯s just me, they will at most send Golden Core Realm cultivators to kill me. But this promise does not apply to you. You might encounter Nascent Soul Realm or even higher-level cultivators.¡±


    ¡°So what? We¡¯ll deal with them when we meet them,¡± Fang Chen replied calmly. ¡°This time, you will listen to me. After you take the Vast Origin Fruit, I will listen to you.¡±


    Fairy Yu fell silent, contemting his words.


    She knew Fang Chen¡¯s temperament well. Once he made up his mind, nothing could sway him.


    Just then, several streaks of light flew towards them.


    ¡°The demoness is here!¡± someone shouted excitedly.


    They were met with a terrifying sword light.


    The cultivators on the building boat exchanged nces, secretly shocked. Several more Golden Core Realm cultivators died. Those Golden Core cultivators had clearlye to hunt down Fairy Yu as well¡­.


    Fang Chen collected the storage rings the Golden Core Realm cultivators dropped and then took Fairy Yu away.


    He didn''t know how great a price the Vast Origin Fruit would cost. The more he prepared now, the greater the chance of obtaining it.


    ¡°They¡¯ve left!¡± someone eximed joyfully.


    The cultivators on the ship collectively sighed in relief, their faces showing rxed smiles. The longer those two stayed, the more they had to worry. In just a few days, a second wave of Golden Core Realm cultivators hade to hunt that female cultivator, indicating that she was in enormous trouble. If they continued to stay on the ship, they would eventually be caught in the crossfire.


    Elder Xu led the Xu Family and silently bowed in the direction Fang Chen had left.


    On the other side, Che Yuxuan¡¯s expression wasplicated. It seemed that his Brother Xia¡¯s background was far more terrifying than he had imagined. There might never be another opportunity to see him again.

 Chapter 501: Sustaining Fighting with Fighting

    <h4>Chapter 501: Sustaining Fighting with Fighting</h4>


    The sword transformation technique was much faster than traveling by boat, potentially reducing the remaining three-year journey by two-thirds. Ordinary cultivators avoided exhausting their spiritual energy over the sea, but that wasn¡¯t a major concern for Fang Chen.


    His spiritual energy was abundant, and it already neared the amount a grandpletion stage Foundation Building Realm cultivator had. Coupled with his overpowered recovery abilities, unless he was dragged into a prolonged battle, his spiritual energy was nearly inexhaustible.


    ¡°Lord, it¡¯s been three months... yet I still can¡¯t master the Shadow Buddha Technique,¡± Fairy Yu said with a troubled expression, feeling somewhat guilty.


    After witnessing the marvels of the Shadow Buddha Technique firsthand, she knew that if she could master it, she could alleviate much of the burden on Fang Chen amidst the relentless pursuit. Unfortunately, no matter how diligently she studied, she couldn¡¯t grasp it, as if some unseen condition was restricting her.


    ¡°If you can¡¯t master it, then so be it.¡± Fang Chen smiled. ¡°You are already powerful enough to y evente-stage Golden Core Realm cultivators with a single sword strike. Haven¡¯t you noticed how smooth our journey has been?¡±


    In three months, they encountered about twenty waves of Golden Core Realm pursuers, totaling over a hundred Golden Core Realm cultivators. At least eighty had fallen to Fairy Yu¡¯s sword.


    The peculiarity of the Inverse Immortal Demon Embryo was evident in that Fairy Yu would gain a portion of the lifespan of the people she killed. Fairy Yu would then use her technique at the cost of her lifespan, making each of her sword strikes immensely powerful. It wasparable to the second strike of the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture.


    This method of battle made things considerably easier for Fang Chen. He usually only needed to use the first sword strike to cover Fairy Yu. If they encountered a grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm cultivator, he would then resort to using the second strike. Unlike before, using the second strike now had an eptable level of consumption; only the third strike would deplete his lifespan.


    The Golden Core Realm cultivators they had defeated over this period brought Fang Chen numerous high-grade, yellow-rank treasures, with a few even carrying peak-grade, yellow-rank treasures.


    In just three short months, Little Sword''s aura had grown significantly stronger, and Fang Chen''s Sword Body had also be more robust. Thanks to these constant battles they had, Fang Chen believed that by the time they reached Taichu, Little Sword would reach the fourth rank.


    However, Fang Chen noticed a marked decrease in the frequency of their pursuers. Initially, they encountered a wave every four or five days. Now, it had been over half a month since thest wave of Golden Core Realm cultivators. This likely meant the word had spread that Fairy Yu was no longer alone, causing the Golden Core Realm cultivators to hesitate.


    However, that was fine too, as it provided them a bit of respite.


    As they traversed the sea, Fairy Yu suddenly pointed to the southeast. ¡°Lord, weren¡¯t you nning to acquire peak-grade, yellow-rank treasures? I remember there¡¯s a maritime empire ahead that is simr to Taichu, a third-tier empire, where you can buy peak-grade, yellow-rank treasures."


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. ¡°A third-tier empire?¡±


    This was indeed a good opportunity. He currently had 470,000 low-grade spirit stones in his storage ring, which was a substantial number. However, if not converted into treasures, they were of little use to Fang Chen. He didn¡¯t need spirit stones for cultivation or to restore spiritual energy; they were purely a form of currency for him.


    ¡°Let¡¯s head to the maritime empire then,¡± Fang Chen decided. ¡°We can stock up on what we need and prepare for any future encounters.¡±


    A few dayster, Fang Chen saw a stretch ofnd up ahead. However, it turned out to only be an ind. This ind, however, was expansive enough that the mortals living on it might never realize that their homnd was merely an ind.


    Upon reachingnd, the power of the Shadow Buddha Technique became evident. Fang Chen and Fairy Yu moved swiftly through the shadows, making rapid progress toward their destination¡ªthe capital of the ind called Guixu.


    ¡°Little Yu, have you ever considered that there might be more to what happened in the Void Immortal Sword Sect?¡± Fang Chen asked suddenly during their journey.


    Fairy Yu''s expression changed slightly, and she nodded softly. ¡°I have had my suspicions. It was strange that Gai Wu could easily enter my private chamber without anyone noticing. But I can¡¯t figure out who would want to harm me. The senior brothers and sisters of Extreme Peak, as well as my junior brothers and sisters, have always treated me well. Senior Sister Jing took special care of me, and there was no conflict between us.¡±


    ¡°What if it was the Spirit Blood Sect?¡± Fang Chen mused. ¡°You and Jing Yuehan appeared in the Grand Qian Empire, and then the Void Immortal Sword Sect killed numerous Spirit Blood Sect cultivators in the Middle Three Realms. The sect and the Spirit Blood Sect have a grudge against each other. The person who framed you might not have targeted you specifically but rather wanted to provoke a conflict between the Void Immortal Sword Sect and Heavenly King Zhen.¡±


    Fang Chen sighed lightly and continued, ¡°Have you considered what the oue would have been if it weren¡¯t for the Inverse Immortal Demonic Embryo?¡±


    Fairy Yu sank into contemtion, and she murmured softly, ¡°If it weren''t for the Inverse Immortal Demonic Embryo, I would have suffered humiliation and death. With the Void Immortal Sword Sect''s temperament... even if the opponent was the Heavenly King Zhen, the ancestors would have gone all out and spent years fighting him....¡±


    ¡°During this period, both sides would sustain significant losses,¡± Fang Chen added.


    Anger slowly rose in Fairy Yu¡¯s eyes. ¡°So... if the Spirit Blood Sect orchestrated this, they would have indirectly avenged themselves?¡±


    She realized that this incident had the hallmarks of the Spirit Blood Sect¡¯s tactics. The seemingly idental event could very well be the result of their maniption.


    However, how did they manage to even control the sword cultivators of the Void Immortal Sword Sect to betray their sect? The mere audacity of the Spirit Blood Sect¡¯s infiltrating a sword sect was infuriating.


    ¡°So, because of the Inverse Immortal Demonic Embryo, you survived, Gai Wu was saved, and the battle between the Void Immortal Sword Sect and Heavenly King Zhen¡¯s manor didn¡¯t escte,¡± Fang Chen mused. ¡°Did you know who was closest to Gai Wu when he came to your sect?¡±


    Fairy Yu smiled bitterly and said, ¡°Lord, I was in seclusion at that time and wasn¡¯t aware of the details. If I could contact Senior Sister Jing, she might know something."


    Fang Chen nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll find a way to get in touch with her.¡±


    Once they acquired the Vast Origin Fruit and ensured Fairy Yu''s safety, he intended to settle this score. People like Gai Wu shouldn''t be allowed to continue existing.


    A few dayster, Fang Chen and Fairy Yu arrived at the capital of Guixu. Before entering the city, Fang Chen used his divine soul to scan the area. He detected over a dozen Nascent Soul Realm cultivators. Moreover, there was also an aura that was extremely intimidating in particr, exerting unprecedented pressure on him.


    Without surprise, the owner of this aura should be an Enlightenment Realm cultivator. That was also the first time Fang Chen had been so close to a Middle Three Realms cultivator, so he couldn''t help but feel a bit serious.


    <i>Can the other party see his divine soul like Senior Yun He and that elder from the Greenwood Sect? </i>thought Fang Chen.


    Thinking of that, Fang Chen didn''t dare to be as reckless as before. He took a quick look and then retracted his divine soul, quietly entering the city with Fairy Yu.


    At the entrance of a bustling shop, Fang Chen looked up at the que with a faint smile on his face. "There is also a Dragon Soaring Pavilion here. It seems that Che Yuxuan wasn''t exaggerating."


    Looking away from the que, Fang Chen walked in.


    Since leaving the Hidden Cloud Region, he hadn''t seen any trace of the Heavenly Treasure Pavilion, indicating that their influence was limited to the Hidden Cloud Region

 Chapter 502: Today, Something Major Is Going to Happen!

    <h4>Chapter 502: Today, Something Major Is Going to Happen!</h4>


    The Dragon Soaring Pavilion was extremelyrge, and the cultivators flowing in and out were all of considerable cultivation levels.


    As soon as Fang Chen stepped in, he noticed many discreet eyes sizing up him and Fairy Yu. However, most of those nces were directed at Fairy Yu.


    Fang Chen smiled as he transmitted his voice, "<i>Little Yu, there might be some troubleter. Are you prepared?</i>"


    Smiling faintly, Fairy Yu nodded lightly.


    Fang Chen led her to wander around the first floor for a while. After that, they headed straight to the fourth floor. The items sold on the fourth floor were all peak-grade, yellow-rank spiritual materials, treasures, and spiritual herbs. There weren''t many customers on that floor, and those present were mostly in the Golden Core Realm.


    A servant quickly greeted them as soon as they arrived. "What can I help the two of you with?"


    Fang Chen asked, "We are looking for peak-grade, yellow-rank treasures. Do you have any here?"


    "Peak-grade, yellow-rank treasures?" repeated the servant.


    The servant was a little surprised, but not too much. He had seen his fair share of the world. His smile became warmer as he said, "Yes, we''ve recently acquired three such treasures. Would you like to take a look?"


    "What''s the price?" Fang Chen inquired as they walked toward the counter where the three treasures were disyed.


    They didn''t reach the counter before Fang Chen said, "No need to look, I''ll take all of them."


    He took out over 32,000 low-grade spirit stones and handed them to the servant, whose face quickly filled with astonishment.


    It took the servant a while before he recovered from the surprise. He quickly nodded and bowed before moving to fetch the three treasures for Fang Chen.


    Suddenly, a cold and harsh voice sounded behind Fang Chen and Fairy Yu. "A dead man wants to buy peak-grade, yellow-rank treasures? Are you using them for burial purposes?"


    The two turned to the source of the voice and saw a young man gazing at them with a hint of disdain and mockery in his eyes.


    At the same time, a group of Golden Core Realm cultivators walked out of the Dragon Soaring Pavilion and headed straight to the teahouse opposite, where they joined another group of Golden Core Realm cultivators. The group had varying cultivation levels, ranging from the early stage to the grandpletion stage, with roughly twenty people in total. Among them, two were at the grandpletion stage of the Golden Core Realm.


    "Brother Zhao has already gone upstairs to test those two. Let''s see what the identity of the man with the demoness is. If he really is from the Void Immortal Sword Sect as rumored, we might not want to act rashly," ate stage Golden Core Realm cultivator said respectfully to the two grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm cultivator.


    A grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm cultivator sneered and scanned the group. "<i>Heh</i>. So what if he''s from the Void Immortal Sword Sect? Have you forgotten that the sect has promised not to intervene in this matter? If they break their promise, they''ll face the consequences. Don''t forget, this time we are working for the Heavenly King Manor. There''s no need to fear the Void Immortal Sword Sect,"


    Everyone¡¯s eyes flickered, and they muttered silently in their hearts.


    Promises were one thing, but what if the crazy sword cultivators came back to settle the score after this matter was settled? They were not direct descendants of the Heavenly King Manor and were just here for the reward. When that time came, it was likely that Heavenly King Zhen would note to their aid and wouldn''t be their support.


    "Demoness Yu is known for her ruthlessness. Brother Zhao is indeed very brave to go up there alone for reconnaissance. I wonder if he''ll encounter any danger," a Golden Core Realm cultivator muttered to himself.


    ¡°This is the capital of Guixu, and they are inside the Dragon Soaring Pavilion. Who would dare to make a move? If they do, it''s even better. The Dragon Soaring Pavilion will definitely intervene, and we will have a better chance of capturing those two.¡±


    Another grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm cultivator smiled and said, "This matter has been widely known and not just fermenting in Zhongzhou. Many cultivators from second-grade and third-grade empires have also learned about it and want to take a piece of the pie."


    The man who just spoke looked very young and was dressed in a purple Daoist robe. As soon as he spoke, all the Golden Core Realm cultivators looked at him with a hint of wariness in their eyes.


    Another grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm cultivator smiled and said, "Daoist Bai, I heard that an elder in our sect recently broke through to the Enlightenment Realm and became a Middle Three Realms cultivator. Congrattions! It has been thousands of years since the Profound Seeking Sect had a Middle Three Realms cultivator, right? If you cooperate with us to capture Demoness Yu, Daoist Bao, and obtain the opportunity from Heavenly King Zhen¡¯s Manor, it would be a double celebration."


    Bai Xiujie smiled lightly. "It''s not exactly a double celebration. I''m just a grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm cultivator. I am not even in the Nascent Soul Realm. how can I bepared to my sect''s elder? However, the rumor is true, the Elder indeed recently broke through to the Enlightenment Realm, stepping into the Middle Three Realms."


    The other Golden Core Realm cultivators couldn''t help but sigh inwardly. The rise of the elder from Profound Seeking Gate was astonishing. He had been just an ordinary cultivator at the mid-stage Nascent Soul Realm just over four hundred years ago. Now, in just four hundred years, he broke through two small realms and one major realm, bing an Enlightenment Realm cultivator.


    "Why hasn''t Brother Zhaoe down yet? Shouldn''t he have finished his reconnaissance?" a Golden Core Realm cultivator suddenly asked.


    <i>Oh right.</i>


    The others fell into deep thought, their gazes fixed on the doors of the Dragon Soaring Pavilion. Just then, they saw Fang Chen and Fairy Yu walk out of the pavilion''s doors side by side. Then, they saw Fang Chen throw a round object to the ground.


    What was that again?


    The expressions of the people in the tea house slightly hardened, showing a mixture of shock and anger.


    That was clearly a bloody human head!


    Fang Chen stepped on the head and looked toward the group with a faint smile.


    "Did you deliberately send such a fool to test the two of us, knowing he woulde to his death?"


    "They''ve found us out...."


    The Golden Core Realm cultivators, realizing they had been discovered, didn''t bother hiding anymore and looked toward Bai Xiujie and the other two. As grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm cultivators, this operation revolved around them.


    Bai Xiujie''s eyes shed with cold light as he stood up and headed downstairs. "Let''s go meet them."


    The scene of a head being thrown and stepped on at the entrance of the Dragon Soaring Pavilion immediately drew the attention of passing cultivators.


    Inside the Dragon Soaring Pavilion, many guests were stunned and subconsciously asked those around them, "What''s going on? Did these two just kill someone at the Dragon Soaring Pavilion? Why isn''t anyone from the Dragon Soaring Pavilioning out?"


    "Hush, their identities are probably not simple," someone whispered in a low voice, reminding them.


    That person then noticed that the cultivators from the Dragon Soaring Pavilion were nearby but showed no intention of making a move, simply watching the scene at the entrance in silence.


    <i>They weren''t simple indeed!</i>


    Anyone with a bit of intelligence could tell that something was amiss!


    Before long, Bai Xiujie and his group walked out of the teahouse and stopped about five zhang away from Fang Chen and Fairy Yu.


    Suddenly, the grandpletion Golden Core Realm cultivator beside Bai Xiujie said, ¡°Why does the mighty Dragon Soaring Pavilion allow these two to kill without reason? Do you dare toe out and exin what is going on?¡±


    His voice boomed like thunder, clearly intending to involve the Dragon Soaring Pavilion in this matter.


    Before anyone could respond, a figure arrived swiftly, exuding an aura far surpassing that of a Golden Core Realm cultivator!


    Was that the Nascent Soul Realm cultivator from the Dragon Soaring Pavilion?


    Bai Xiujie and the others felt a slight relief at the arrival of the Nascent Soul Realm cultivator.


    However, to their surprise, the Nascent Soul Realm cultivator said in a cold tone, "We, the Dragon Soaring Pavilion, are just businessmen. We won''t meddle in the conflicts of the Central Continent Empire. If you want to fight or kill, feel free to do so, but don''t involve us. We can''t afford to offend either Heavenly King Zhen or the Void Immortal Sword Sect."


    Bai Xiujie and the others'' faces turned extremely grim.


    The nearby cultivators were astonished as they inhaled a cold breath collectively. "Heavenly King Zhen?! Void Immortal Sword Sect?!"


    Today, something serious is going to happen!

 Chapter 503: How Do We Even Continue?!

    <h4>Chapter 503: How Do We Even Continue?!</h4>


    Both Heavenly King Zhen Manor and the Void Immortal Sword Sect were highly renowned entities in the cultivation world. To ordinary cultivators, they were legends.


    Just a single sword cultivator was already terrifying, and it was rumored that the Void Immortal Sword Sect had a hundred thousand of them. If they were to mobilize them fully, half of the cultivation world would tremble.


    As for Heavenly King Zhen¡¯s Manor, not only did it wield immense power in the cultivation world, but it also boasted experts ranked in the Emperor Ranking who have transcended Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions. Those experts stood at the threshold of the Ascension Realm.


    Not to mention that there were countless empires serving under the Heavenly King Zhen''s Manor, ranging from second-tier to third-tier empires. There were too many to count.


    In terms of the number of formidable subordinates, the Heavenly King Zhen''s Manor likely surpassed the Void Immortal Sword Sect by far.


    No one truly knew how many forces were under the control of Heavenly King Zhen, as there were high-level experts supporting him covertly, making it difficult to gauge their true strength!


    "Could that woman be Demoness Yu? The one various Central Continent Empire''s Golden Core Realm cultivators had been relentlessly hunting in recent years?"


    "That''s her, no doubt about it. She hails from the Void Immortal Sword Sect and is their discarded disciple. No wonder even the Nascent Soul Realm cultivators of the Dragon Soaring Pavilion fear her a lot."


    "I heard that her feud with Heavenly King Zhen''s Manor is quite unique, which also led to an agreement between the Void Immortal Sword Sect and the Manor. Only cultivators of the same level are allowed to pursue the Demoness Yu. If this rule is broken, the Void Immortal Sword Sect will intervene."


    "The Void Immortal Sword Sect may have also promised not to meddle in this matter. But who is this person besides the Demoness Yu? If it''s a sword cultivator from the Void Immortal Sword Sect, then what''s the point of rules? The Heavenly King Zhen''s Manor will surely retaliate."


    Whispers filled the air, and Feng Chen furrowed his brows slightly.


    What should he do in this type of situation? Even such distant cultivators have heard of this matter. This illustrated the immense influence of the Heavenly King Zhen.


    After the cultivator from Dragon Soaring Pavilion expressed his stance, he stood silently in the void, his eyes sizing up Fang Chen and Fairy Yu. There was a sliver of curiosity in his eyes. Although these two were far below his level of cultivation, he knew in his heart that their backgrounds were unattainable to him. Even if the Pavilion Master were here, he wouldn''t dare to intervene in this matter.


    Perhaps drawn by the bloody aura, seven or eight Nascent Soul Realm cultivators arrived. However, like the one from the Dragon Soaring Pavilion, they showed no intention of interfering and were all scrutinizing Fang Chen and Fairy Yu.


    On the other hand, they paid no attention to Bai Xiujie and the others. It''s been over ten years since that incident urred, and anyone with a bit of background in the cultivation world would avoid getting swept into this mess.


    If anyone was stupid enough to take part, it was those reckless individuals and the direct descendants of Heavenly King Zhen''s Manor. They were the ones who would relentlessly pursue the opportunity to curry favor with the Heavenly King.


    Another Golden Core cultivator next to Bai Xiujie sneered again. "Even the Nascent Soul Realm cultivator from the prestigious Dragon Soaring Pavilion fears these two mere Golden Core cultivators? Even if the seniors are constrained by rules from taking action, they shouldn''t obstruct the opportunities of their subordinates."


    He seemed to have some background and was not afraid of the Nascent Soul Realm cultivator.


    The Nascent Soul Realm cultivator from the Dragon Soaring Pavilion narrowed his eyes and stared at the Golden Core Realm cultivator, his tone calm but filled with strong killing intent. "I''ve said it before and I''ll say it again. The Dragon Soaring Pavilion is only doing business, and we have nothing to do with the conflicts in the cultivation world.


    "Junior, if you insist on dragging the Dragon Soaring Pavilion into this, I will be the first to strike you down today. Do you think Heavenly King Zhen or the Void Immortal Sword Sect will stand up for you?"


    Bai Xiuji knew it was not wise to further provoke the local cultivators, so he immediately transmitted a message to the Golden Core Realm to advise him against it.


    "Tsk, tsk, tsk...." Fairy Yu suddenly chuckled. "You lot are eager for credit, yet you don''t dare to step forward and fight with your lives on the line. You spend your days trying to drag others down. With such little courage, why do you even bother appearing in front of me? I¡¯ve killed plenty of Golden Core Realm cultivators like you over these past ten years. It''s getting a bit boring."


    "Demoness, stop being arrogant!"


    "Demoness, today we will capture you alive!"


    "Evil can''t triumph over good. Today, we will eradicate you from the cultivation world!"


    The Golden Core Realm cultivators behind Bai Xiujie were furious, but they still showed no intention of making a move, seemingly waiting for Bai Xiujie and the other two to act first.


    As a third-tier empire, Guixu naturally had numerous experts in its capital city, including many outstanding talents. Now, many young talents from various factions rushed over and observed the scene before them.


    "These Golden Core Realm cultivators... seem quite fearful of these two."


    One youth looked extremely excited. "Of course, who wouldn''t be afraid? It''s confirmed that the Demoness Yu is an abandoned disciple of the Void Immortal Sword Sect, and she has killed many Golden Core Realm cultivators over the years. As for the other one, I don''t know his background, but I heard that they killed four celestial soldiers under the Heavenly King Zhen."


    The others were surprised when they heard that. Killing celestial soldiers under the Heavenly King Zhen''smand was a big deal. They instinctively moved away, creating distance.


    Suddenly Fang Chen spoke, butting into the argument between Fairy Yu and the Golden Core Realm cultivators. "Everyone, do you use your cultivation techniques to cultivate your mouths?¡±


    He smiled. "The matter that Little Yu and I came here to handle has beenpleted. Now we''re leaving. Feel free to do as you wish."


    With that, Fang Chen pulled Fairy Yu and walked toward the city gate, leaving the group of Golden Core Realm cultivators behind.


    Bai Xiujie and the others'' faces turned grim. It was clear that Fang Chen didn''t take them seriously. Now, with so many cultivators watching, not taking action would likely cause them to lose face in the Central Continent Empire.


    Perhaps there was an unspoken understanding, or maybe they had rehearsed this beforehand, but Bai Xiujie and the others almost simultaneously made their move. They unleashed their treasures and techniques, causing the surrounding spiritual energy to surge wildly.


    A Nascent Soul Realm cultivator immediately set up a formation to protect the nearby buildings. If they didn''t act, the aftermath of these attacks would destroy the area.


    "Lord, we''ll each take one," Fairy Yu said with a smile before turning around and shing with her sword.


    Fang Chen was much faster than her. His terrifying sword technique destroyed all kinds of methods employed by the Golden Core Realm cultivators. Whether it was treasures or techniques, they were as fragile as tofu before his sword.


    The Golden Core Realm cultivator beside Bai Xiujie suddenly trembled as if struck by lightning. A line of blood appeared on his forehead and quickly spread down to his lower body. The line of blood began to glow, gradually consuming his flesh. In just a few breaths, that Golden Core Realm cultivator waspletely annihted.


    Fairy Yu sighed softly. ¡°Lord, it seems like my sword strike wasn''t quite enough...."


    Not far away, Bai Xiujie was hacking out blood. Even though he had blocked Fairy Yu¡¯s sword strike, he had been left in bad shape, having suffered internal injuries.


    As Bai Xiujie watched Fang Chen kill another Golden Core Realm cultivator effortlessly, an ominous premonition rose in his heart.


    "The sword technique of the man next to Demoness Yu was even stronger than hers?!" he muttered in shock.


    The information they received waspletely different; it clearly stated that the demoness was the main force, and the man was just assisting!


    Bai Xiujie didn''t dare to make another move, and the other Golden Core cultivators became even more hesitant as they stood rooted to the ground. Two Golden Core Realm cultivators had just been instantly killed...!


    How could they continue the fight like this!?


    The onlookers had expected an exciting battle, but they were surprised when the Golden Core Realm cultivators'' attack fizzled out as soon as it started.


    "Come again." Fairy Yu chuckled lightly. "Since one sword strike didn''t finish you off, then let''s try another one."


    Fang Chen stopped Fairy Yu and walked toward Bai Xiujie. "Don''t waste your lifespan. Let me beat him until he¡¯s half dead, and then you can kill him."


    Struck with panic, Bai Xiujie suddenly turned toward the group of Nascent Soul realm cultivators. "Esteemed seniors, I am a disciple of the Profound Seeking Sect in the Central Continent Empire. I implore you to save my life. The Profound Seeking Sect will be extremely grateful to you!"

 Chapter 504: Time Flies

    <h4>Chapter 504: Time Flies</h4>


    <i>Profound Seeking Sect?</i>


    Fang Chen''s footsteps paused slightly, surprise rising in his heart.


    What a coincidence this was! Didn''t the Nascent Soul corpse he found before belong to an elder of the Profound Seeking Sect, Du Fei? Du Fei''sst words indicated that the Grand Elder of the Profound Seeking Sect was a cultivator from the Spirit Blood Sect. It was this discovery that led to Du Fei being relentlessly pursued.


    Thinking about how he was chased all the way from the Central Continent Empire to the Demon Cloud Empire, it was clear that the identity of that Grand Elder was incredibly important to the Spirit Blood Sect.


    "We''ve been very clear about our attitude. The grudges between you have nothing to do with me, and I won''t interfere," said a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator lightly.


    Another Nascent Soul Realm cultivator sneered. "What Profound Seeking Sect? Never heard of it. Haven''t your elders told you not to meddle in vendettas? Death is a trivial matter, but if it implicates the sect.... <i>Hehe...</i>"


    Bai Xiujie became increasingly panicked and hurriedly said, "Our sect''s Grand Elder has already ascended to the Enlightenment Realm and is a Middle Three Realms cultivator! Moreover, the Grand Elder¡¯s Daopanion is from the Immortal Giant Sect. If you haven''t heard of the Profound Seeking Sect, you should have heard of the Immortal Giant Sect!"


    As soon as that was said, the faces of the Nascent Soul Realm cultivators present turned grave.


    The Immortal Giant Sect.... Indeed, they had heard of it. It was also one of the top sects in the Central Continent Empire! In terms of strength, it was no weaker than the Void Immortal Sword Sect and Heavenly King Zhen¡¯s Manor!


    Fang Chen pondered, "The Immortal Giant Sect?"


    The fact that the cultivator who took Jiang Tianai away came from the Immortal Giant Sect, along with the expressions of the Nascent Soul Realm cultivators, indicated that the Immortal Giant Sect¡¯s status in the Central Continent Empire was not low.


    Since the Grand Elder of the Profound Seeking Sect was a cultivator from the Spirit Blood Sect and his Daopanion was from the Immortal Giant Sect, it was likely that the Spirit Blood Sect was nning to make a move against the Immortal Giant Sect.


    <i>These scoundrels are truly everywhere. I wonder what kind of figure the sect leader of the Spirit Blood Sect is. How is it possible for all the other sect leaders to have no inkling of who he is at all? </i>Fang Chenmented.


    "Sorry, we still cannot interfere."


    The Nascent Soul Realm cultivators expressed their stance again after a brief silence.


    Despair appeared in Bai Xiujie''s eyes as he turned to stare at Fang Chen. That sword strike just now had filled him with genuine fear; he couldn''t withstand it at all!


    "Young Master, I didn''t intend toe here today. I was misled by someone. If you are willing to spare my life, I promise not to appear in front of the two of you ever again!" Bai Xiujie pleaded softly.


    Fang Chen smiled and disappeared before reappearing beside Bai Xiujie. Without using any techniques, he relied purely on the power of his Sword Body to strike Bai Xiujie with his palm a few hundred times.


    Each palm struck at vital points like joints and the spine. In just a blink of an eye, Bai Xiujie became as limp as a boneless snake,pletely paralyzed. Fang Chen casually tossed him in front of Fairy Yu.


    "In your next life, don''t gamble with your life so recklessly," Fairy Yu advised softly before delivering the final strike to Bai Xiujie.


    At that moment, both the cultivators in the grandpletion stage of the Golden Core Realm were already dead. The remaining cultivators were from thete to early stages of the Golden Core Realm, and they knew that they were no match for Fang Chen and Fairy Yu. They stiffened from fear. Even their spiritual energy became stagnant.


    They followed Bai Xiujie''s example and tried to reveal their background in hopes that the surrounding Nascent Soul Realm cultivator could lend a hand. Unfortunately, even if those Nascent Soul Realm cultivators also wanted to reap Heavenly King Zhen''s rewards, they didn''t dare to do so. Under their indifferent gaze, each Golden Core Realm cultivator was brought to Fairy Yu and dealt with one by one.


    Fang Chen took their storage rings.


    With this battle done with, he had amassed tens of thousands of low-grade spirit stones. They were just enough to make up for the thirty-two thousand he had just spent.


    Reaching for Fairy Yu''s hand, Fang Chen began to walk toward the city gate as he said to her, "Let''s go."


    The surrounding Nascent Soul Realm cultivator simply stood there and watched them leave.


    The surrounding local Golden Core Realm cultivators were secretly amazed; those two had killed Golden Core Realm cultivators as easily as ughtering chickens. If it weren''t for the Nascent Soul Realming out to bnce the situation, any number of Golden Core Realm cultivatorsing over would be futile.


    Several dayster, a group of special guests arrived in Guixu. Their arrival even prompted the appearance of the reclusive ancestors of Guixu.


    In front of the Dragon Soaring Pavilion, the group of special guests looked coldly at the cleaned aftermath of the battle. The Nascent Soul Realm cultivators from the Dragon Soaring Pavilion and various other sects also came forward, their expressions filled with surprise and uncertainty.


    The leader of the special guests looked toward an old man with sparse hair and a small stature. "Ancestor of the Guixu Empire, why did you witness the ughter of innocent Golden Core cultivators by Fairy Yu without any retaliation?"


    This old man was the only Enlightenment Realm cultivator in Guixu, and it was because of his existence that Guixu, once a fourth-tier empire, managed to climb to the third-tier.


    Upon hearing the question, the old man didn''t show any anger. Instead, he patiently exined, "Celestial Soldiers, Guixu is but a small third-tier empire that has always upheld the philosophy of tranquility and neutrality. We rarely walk into a conflict. Besides, Heavenly King Zhen once said that participating in this matter is voluntary. The Golden Core Realm cultivators of Guixu do not wish to get involved, and we cannot force them to do so."


    The special guests were precisely the celestial soldiers under Heavenly King Zhen and each one of them exuded a powerful and majestic aura. All of them were grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm cultivators.


    Evidently, the Heavenly King Zhen¡¯s Manor adjusted the cultivation levels of the pursuit team once they had learned of the extra assistance Fairy Yu had gained.


    After hearing the perfunctory words of Guixu''s ancestor, the leader of the special guests remained silent and waited quietly. Before long, a few more celestial soldiers approached.


    "We''ve inquired. Demoness Yu is the same as before. Her sword technique can only injure grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm cultivators. Killing them with one strike is impossible."


    "However, it¡¯s different for that young man. His sword technique can easily kill grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm cultivators."


    The leader furrowed his brows slightly. That was bad news. It was now futile for ordinary grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm cultivators to try to kill this witch. They would have to bring out some Golden Core Realm geniuses who rarely faced defeat.


    "Let''s go," said the leader, snorting coldly.


    He led his people away from the area, showing no intention of chasing after Fang Chen and Fairy Yu.


    After they left, the ancestor of Guixu smiled self-deprecatingly. "When immortals fight, it is themon folk that suffer. In the world of today, it''s still wise to protect oneself."


    With that, he left with his hands behind his back.


    The surrounding Nascent Soul Realm cultivators looked at each other, feeling somewhat emotional. To hear the Middle Three Realms Guixu ancestor speak in such a manner was surprising. It demonstrated how terrifying the status of Heavenly King Zhen Manor and the Void Immortal Sword Sect was in the minds of cultivators.


    ***


    In the following months, everything seemed calm and peaceful. No Golden Core Realm cultivator came knocking on Fairy Yu and Fang Chen''s door. This allowed them to enjoy a period of tranquility. At this moment, they had already arrived in the Taichu Empire. The route given by Xia Ji was quite unique and was known to only a few.


    ***


    Time flew, and soon, five years passed.


    Amidst the vast expanse of the Hundred Thousand Mountains.


    "We''re almost there."


    Golden veins were faintly visible in Fang Chen''s eyes as he scanned the area.


    Suddenly, he spotted some unusual fluctuations a few miles away.


    "Let''s go."


    Fang Chen took Fairy Yu and went in that direction. Soon, they arrived at an ancient formation that was covered in weeds.


    "Huh, isn''t this a teleportation formation?"


    Fairy Yu was surprised and looked at Fang Chen. "Lord, how did you know there''s a teleportation formation here?"


    Fang Chen smiled. "Xia Ji gave me the route."


    Fairy Yu realized why Fang Chen had spent a full five years wandering around with her. It was all for this teleportation formation.


    Fang Chen observed the teleportation formation for a while, then turned to Fairy Yu. "Guard me."


    He hadn''t wasted the five years; he had already gathered the necessary spiritual materials to advance Little Sword.


    He was going to advance to the fourth rank Sword Body!

 Chapter 505 Mottled Bloodstains

    <h4>Chapter 505 Mottled Bloodstains</h4>


    "Hey, are you sure that the demoness and her ally are in these deste mountains? This ce is so barren I bet not even dogse here. Look at how thin the spiritual energy is. I would have never imagined that a third-tier empire would have a ce like this."


    A child who appeared to be eight or nine years old sat atop a green ox, standing in the sky above the vast mountains. Near the child were five or six young men and women. Some were observing their surroundings, while othersughed at the child.


    "The demoness has incurred the karma of Heavenly King Zhen¡¯s Manor. If the manor says they are here, they must be here. They wouldn''t be wrong."


    The child said impatiently, "But this ce is so frighteningly huge. How are we supposed to find them? It''s really... If you called us here to suppress the demoness, you should at least give us an urate location."


    A young man raised a bamboo tube, and bamboo sticks flew out, swirling around him and forming a trigram diagram. "Daoist Ning, please be patient. The demoness won''t be escaping any time soon. I just need three hours to calcte her exact location."


    "With Daoist Zhou''s Innate Eight Trigram Technique, we''re sure to seed today."


    The others broke intoughter.


    A young man who only had one eye open slowly spoke. "We need to be wary when we find those two, especially that sword cultivator by her side. He is the most dangerous of the pair. Since he can easily kill a grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm, he isn''t far from our level. He''s an Immortal Seedling as well."


    "Daoist Xu, an Immortal Seedling from the countryside still falls short whenpared to us. Originally, we refrained from acting due to our sect not wanting to make a move. If not for that, how could the demoness have a chance to escape from the Central Continent? No matter how strong her methods are, they are far inferior to a true Immortal Seedling.


    "As for the person by her side, the manor has verified that he is not a true Immortal Seedling of any sect or faction. This shows his humble origins. Even if he has the potential of a genius, he has never undergone the true test to be one like us. If ites to a fight, you only need to open your left eye, and he will perish."


    The speaker was a woman with a cold demeanor. She was dressed in a flowing purple skirt that fluttered in the wind, exuding an otherworldly aura, like a banished immortal.


    However, there was one distinguishing aspect of this woman, and that was her stature. She was muchrger than everyone else, standing at a height of about twenty feet! In front of her, the others looked like infants. Daoist Ning, who was only eight or nine years old, was even smaller than her palm.


    As time ticked, the child on the ox became more and more impatient, and he kept on urging them to get a move on.


    Finally, the young man calcting suddenly opened his eyes wide, and a sh of golden light seemed to pass through his gaze. The bamboo sticks around him all pointed in the same direction.


    "Move two thousand miles in that direction and you''ll find the demoness," the young man asserted confidently.


    "Are you sure?" The child on the ox was skeptical. "Don''t get the direction wrong and make us run for nothing. It was not easy for us to make a trip out...."


    "Daoist Ning, Daoist Zhou is a genius of the Innate Dao Sect. How can his Innate Eight Trigram Technique be wrong?" said the cold woman with a light smile.


    She took the lead, transforming into a rainbow and heading toward the direction the bamboo sticks had shown.


    ***


    Fairy Yu squatted before Fang Chen with her chin resting on her hands, curiously watching Little Sword eat its fill. She remarked, "Your sword is truly unique. It even devours peak-grade, yellow-rank treasures."


    Little Sword seemed a bit ufortable being stared at and instinctively twitched a few times. However, it continued to eat its meal without pause.


    As it devoured each treasure, its aura became increasingly dense and refined.


    On the ordinary-looking sword, a blood-colored mark slowly began to form. It looked like bloodstains from a past kill.


    "Lord, do you see this bloodstain? What''s its origin?" Fairy Yu asked in surprise.


    Fang Chen was just as puzzled. He inquired internally, "<i>Little Mirror, what''s the story behind the bloodstain on the sword?</i>"


    "<i>I''ve always said that this junior is quite special and is unlike an ordinary Sword Star Embryo. If I''m not mistaken, it came into existence a long time ago, but for some reason, it transformed back into a sword fetus. It¡¯s simr to what you cultivators call reincarnation,</i>" replied the Mirror of the Universe with a grave tone.


    "This patchy bloodstain is likely left behind from ying a formidable opponent, allowing the Sword Star Embryo to reincarnate once more. This indicates that this opponent may have been... a True Immortal."


    <i>A True Immortal? Stronger than a Sect Leader? A true immortal existing in the immortal realm? </i>Fang Chen thought.


    Fang Chen''s eyes revealed a sense of gravity as he suddenly recalled the scene he witnessed when nurturing Little Sword. A majestic figure, one person and one sword, raining blood upon countless heavenly gods.


    <i>Could it be that the sword in that person''s hand is Little Sword?</i>


    "If I want to know the exact information, how many spirit stones would it cost?" Fang Chen probed.


    "Brother, for now, you cannot afford it."


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "Alright, I understand."


    He felt that what he already knew was more than enough. No wonder there was an inheritance on Little Sword. It once had an owner. However, it remained unknown whether its owner had abandoned it or they had already fallen.


    So Little Sword reincarnated and became the sword''s embryo, falling into his hands.


    Suddenly, Fang Chen looked at Fairy Yui, "Little Yu, protect me."


    He closed his eyes, and at that moment, Little Sword merged into Fang Chen''s body. In an instant, a terrifying sword aura shed and disappeared around Fang Chen.


    Fairy Yu was secretly shocked. "The lord''s sword body is so powerful. It seems that even my senior sister can''tpare...."


    If it weren''t for that aura earlier, she wouldn''t have known that Fang Chen''s Sword Body had be so strong.


    "Senior sister is a Golden Core Realm cultivator, and also a genius of the Extreme Sword Peak. The origins of her flying sword are nothing to be scoffed at, but her Sword Body is far from the lord''s Sword Body''s match..." Fairy Yu murmured softly.


    She vaguely had a premonition that Fang Chen''s Sword Body was about to advance to the fourth rank.


    Although she had not spent much time in the Void Immortal Sword Sect, her time there had broadened her horizons, especially when it came to sword cultivation inheritances. Typically, the rank of the Sword Body corresponded to one''s cultivation level. It was rare to see discrepancies. At least in the Void Immortal Sword Sect, such exceptions rarely urred.


    There was an important reason behind this. If the rank of the Sword Body exceeded one''s cultivation level, it would be impossible to maintain the bnce between the two. At that point, a person... might be a sword, and a sword... might be a person!


    Very few people knew about this information. It wasn''t even well known amongst sword cultivators. She knew about it because the Void Immortal Sword Sect had once experienced such a case. That time, they lost a genius and nurtured a sword demon.


    Thinking about this, a sliver of worry appeared in her eyes. This sword embryo originated from the Void Immortal Sword Sect, with an impressive background. If one day... this sword reced Fang Chen, what would happen then?


    Struggle appeared in Fairy Yu''s eyes. "I''ve be like this... the lord absolutely cannot face any idents...."


    Suddenly, a child''s voice rang out. "Looks like the demoness is really here."


    Fairy Yu''s expression turned serious, and she slowly turned around.

 Chapter 506: Fighting Divine Whip

    <h4>Chapter 506: Fighting Divine Whip</h4>


    When Fairy Yu turned around and saw the cold female cultivator who towered over, disbelief shed in her eyes. "Senior Sister Zi? Are you also here to kill me?"


    This cold female cultivator was a close friend of Jing Yuehan. She even asionally visited the Void Immortal Sword Sect, and Jing Yuehan would also visit the Immortal Giant Sect to see her from time to time. Fairy Yu had met this woman more than once before. Back then, she had always treated Fairy Yu very well. It was unexpected to meet her here today.


    This was clearly not a coincidence; she hade prepared.


    The child riding the ox was somewhat surprised. "Daoist Zi, you actually know this demoness?"


    The others remained calm, but surprise still shed in their eyes.


    Zi Yun looked down at Fairy Yu and then smiled lightly, her next words for everyone to hear. "I used to have an amicable rtionship with her Senior Sister. She had not yet condensed her Inverse Immortal Demonic Embryo back then and was a promising disciple of the Extreme Sword Peak."


    After a pause, Zi Yun looked at Fairy Yu deeply. "The conditions offered by Heavenly King Zhen''s Manor are quite tempting. Since you still call me Senior Sister, why not stop resisting and let us capture you alive?"


    Fairy Yu''s voice turned cold, and her eyes were full of mockery. "Aren''t you afraid that Senior Sister Jing will find out about this?"


    Zi Yun smiled. "I heard that she has been imprisoned because of you. She probably won''t be seen for another hundred or so years. By then, she won''t even remember having a disciple like you who fell into demonic cultivation. We will remain good sisters."


    ¡°Demoness, is this person next to you the Immortal Seedling who killed a grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm cultivator with a single sword strike?¡± The child riding the ox turned his attention to Fang Chen, curious. "What is he doing? Is he cultivating? No, I don¡¯t feel any spiritual energy around him, but his qi and blood are churning fiercely."


    The one to answer was the young man who had his left eye closed. He replied coldly, "Perhaps he''s cultivating some kind of technique. Now that he¡¯s in a critical moment, it''s perfect for us. We can easily capture them without much effort."


    "Daoist Xu, we are Immortal Seedlings. You want us to catch someone in a moment of weakness?" The child riding the bull raised a brow. "We already brought so many people this time, which is humiliating enough. Now you want to attack him while he''s cultivating?"


    "Daoist Ning, on the path of cultivation, one should not hesitate to use any means necessary. You may be young and not understand this principle yet, but after experiencing a hundred years in the mortal world, perhaps you wille to understand this," said the young man with his left eye closed in a light tone.


    "<i>Help me dy them for a quarter of an hour</i>," Fang Chen''s voice sounded in Fairy Yu''s ear.


    Fairy Yu''s expression changed slightly. <i>A quarter of an hour?</i>


    She suddenly smiled. "Senior Sister Zi, with Immortal Seedlings like you taking action, we indeed have no chance of making it out today. Instead of dying left in the dark, why don''t you tell us who these people with you are? Are they all Immortal Seedlings like you?"


    "Haha! You guessed right!" The child riding the oxughed heartily. "Demoness, we are all Immortal Seedlings. Daoist Zi is an Immortal Seedling of the Immortal Giant Sect, Daoist Zhou is an Immortal Seedling of the Innate Dao Sect, and Daoist Xu is¡ª"


    The young man with his left eye closed gave the child riding the ox a cold nce. "Daoist Ning, why are you revealing our identities one by one? Are you afraid that the Void Immortal Sword Sect won''t know?"


    Just then, he suddenly made a move, and a sh of sword light shot out swiftly, aiming straight for the center of Fairy Yu''s eyebrows.


    Clearly, he didn''t intend to let them walk out of here alive.


    Fairy Yu''s face sank. Already prepared to fight, she burned her lifespan and shed out with a sword.


    Two terrifying sword lights collided in mid-air, sending shockwaves rippling in all directions.


    The young man with his left eye tightly closed remained unharmed, seemingly unaffected by Fairy Yu''s attack. His right eye shed with mockery. "You can injure an ordinary grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm cultivator, but... your cultivation is still too low. You are only in the early stage of the Golden Core Realm. If you want to harm me, you must be at the same stage as me."


    In the next moment, he suddenly waved his sleeve.


    <i>Boom!</i>


    A terrifying force fell directly on Fairy Yu. The spiritual energy barrier around her shattered instantly, and she was sent flying, crashing into dozens of heavenly ancient trees.


    Even a grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm cultivator would have to be cautious when facing Fairy Yu. However, in front of this young man, Fairy Yu appeared somewhat weak.


    Now that her sword had no effect on the young man, it seemed she had no way to deal with him at all.


    "It''s just for a quarter of an hour, surely I can dy them?" Fairy Yu coughed up blood as she stood up. She smirked and wiped the blood off her lips. "That one didn''t count. I wasn''t ready. Come again."


    The young man furrowed his brow slightly, indifferently waving his sleeve.


    This time, Fairy Yu was fully prepared, and she finally saw what that mysterious force was. It was a virtual shadow resembling a whip. Before that whip, her spiritual barrier seemed as weak as tofu.


    <i>Boom!</i>


    Once again, Fairy Yu was thrown back, lying on the ground as she panted heavily. She cut a sorry figure.


    "Just a moment, I can handle it." She wiped the blood from the corner of her mouth again and stood up with effort. "Is this all you''ve got?"


    "Demoness, this is Daoist Xu¡¯s sect''s Fighting Divine Whip. Daoist Xu hasn''t exerted his full strength yet. If he does, even an ordinary Nascent Soul Realm cultivator would have to retreat. You better not be stubborn and leave with us," said the child riding the ox.


    <i>Fighting Divine Whip?!</i>


    Fairy Yu was shocked, and her voice turned cold. "I''ve heard of this technique. Youe from the Great Expansion Dao Gate! Your sect has note out into the world for thousands of years, all because one of your ancestors unjustly harmed the disciples of our Void Immortal Sword Sect and used them to refine pills.


    "That time, our ancestor attacked your sect¡¯s ancestral grounds. Your sect wasn¡¯t destroyed only because several ancestors intervened to stop the battle. But ever since then, you promised not to interfere in the matters of the mortal world for ten thousand years. Are you breaking that promise now?"


    The youth with his left eye closed remained expressionless. He looked slowly at the ox-riding child. "Daoist Ning, are you doing this on purpose?"


    The cow-riding child looked at him innocently. "What''s wrong with that? You are indeed from the Great Expansion Dao Gate. I was just praising the formidable Fighting Divine Whip of your sect."


    The youth ignored him and turned to Fairy Yu. "That incident was long ago, and the truth of it is unknown. Our sect¡¯s decision not to interfere in worldly matters has nothing to do with the promise you mentioned."


    "Today, I''ve stepped out, indicating that the Great Expansion Dao Gate has opened its doors wide. If your Void Immortal Sword Sect wants to look for trouble, thene at me."


    "Daoist Xu, just take her down," urged the youth from the Innate Dao Gate. "There''s no need to waste so much time."


    The youth suddenly sneered, casting a nce at Fang Chen. "She''s stalling for time."


    "She''s waiting for this person to wake up. I''m curious about how he''ll turn the tide after he wakes up. Since she wants it this way, I''ll fulfill her wish and see how long she can hold on."


    With that, another strike of the Fighting Divine Whip came forth. Fairy Yu didn''t even have time to react before she felt sudden, intense pain. Taking the hit, she was sent flying hundreds of feet away. However, worried about Fang Chen, she didn¡¯t want to take the battle elsewhere. She endured the pain as she was hurled backward into the air.


    The whip hit her one time after the other, leaving her exposed skin injured heavily. In the end, she couldn''t even fly back and had to walk back step by step with a limp.


    With each step, bits of flesh and blood were left on the ground, leaving bloody footprints in the mud.


    Fairy Yuughed weakly. "Is this all the skill the Great Expansion Dao Gate has?"


    The young man''s face darkened.


    A nearly invisible whip suddenly pierced through Fairy Yu¡¯s chest, lifting her high into the air. Her eyes showed confusion as vitality drained from her body, her limbs losing strength and drooping.


    "Has a quarter of an hour passed?" She smiled faintly, trying hard to look toward Fang Chen. However, her vision had be blurry. "I... seem to be dying.... Fortunately... the lord will take care of my remains...."


    Watching the motionless Fairy Yu, the Giant Immortal Sect''s Zi Yun frowned slightly and said coldly, "You could have spared her and gotten a better reward."


    "It doesn''t matter, I''m not acting for the reward from the Heavenly King Zhen¡¯s Manor," replied the young man coldly, chuckling.


    He casually flung his hand, sending Fairy Yu flying through the air.


    Just as she was about to crash heavily near Fang Chen, a pair of strong hands caught her.

 Chapter 507: Since you are here, don’t think about leaving

    <h4>Chapter 507: Since you are here, don¡¯t think about leaving</h4>


    Fairy Yu was covered in injuries. There was not a single piece of flesh on her left unscathed. She was soaked in blood, and there was a terrifying piercing wound on her chest. Fang Chen could even see her internal organs pulsating within.


    If a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator had sustained the same degree of injury as her, they would''ve long died.


    Fang Chen looked down at her, one eye gray-white with golden veins, while the other emitting a faintly eerie blue light.


    Sensing something, Fairy Yu weakly opened her eyes, and Fang Chen''s blurry face came into her view.


    "My... lord?"


    "It''s me. Your injuries are severe, so rest well for now."


    Fortunately, Fairy Yu had consumed the lifespan of many cultivatorstely, and her Inverse Immortal Demonic Embryo possessed incredible recovery abilities, allowing her to cling to herst breath.


    Knowing that Fang Chen had awakened, Fairy Yu breathed a sigh of relief and closed her eyes before sinking into slumber.


    Just as Fang Chen was about to rise after gentlyying Fairy Yu down on the floor, the young man from the Great Expansion Dao Sect opened his mouth and spoke. "She used her life to buy you time. Do you think you can deal with us alone?


    Pausing for a moment, his tone becameced with mockery. "I''m curious to see why she was so confident you would be able to deal with us."


    Fang Chen slowly raised his head and looked toward the young man.


    It was also at this moment that everyone noticed the uniqueness of Fang Chen''s eyes. One of his eyes had golden veins running through it, while the other emitted a strange blue light.


    Zi Yun frowned slightly. "Eye arts?"


    The Innate Dao Sect disciple was surprised. "He has cultivated two kinds of eye techniques? Strange, eye technique inheritances are extremely rare even in the Central Continent. My sect only masters one of the three thousand eye techniques... Eight or nine out of ten eye techniques have long been lost for many years..."


    Even the child riding the ox was shocked. "Even I haven''t received the inheritance of eye techniques. How can a countryside Immortal Seedling have such a fortune?"


    The young man''s right eye showed cold mockery. "He might be from the countryside, but he may not necessarily be at the level of an Immortal Seedling. We will only know after a fight."


    He raised his hand and lightly waved, sending another Fighting Divine Whip toward Fang Chen.


    His target wasn''t just Fang Chen, he was also aiming for Fairy Yu as well.


    The invisible Fighting Divine Whip carried immense force. Just as it was about tond on Fang Chen, he raised his hand lightly. The whip struck Fang Chen''s forearm, but it seemed to have been hit with a huge bacsh. Like an egg hitting a wall, it shattered on impact.


    Fang Chen didn''t move a step from his ce, as if he was not even affected by the force of the whip.


    Everyone was shocked.


    The child riding the ox took a cold breath and looked at Fang Chen with disbelief and incredulity. Even they would find it challenging to deal with the Great Expansion Dao Sect''s Fighting Divine Whip, yet Fang Chen had dealt with it casually. He didn''t use spiritual energy at all and simply blocked it with his physical body.


    The young man was slightly startled as his face immediately darkened. He swung his sleeve again, sending another Fighting Divine Whip attacking. However, the result was the same as before. Fang Chen simply raised his hand lightly, and the Fighting Divine Whip shattered.


    The child riding the ox instinctively looked toward the cultivator from the Innate Dao Sect. "This guy is a body-refining cultivator?!"


    "No, a body-refining cultivator can''t have a physique this strong. Even if he is, it''s impossible to rely solely on the physical body to block the attacks of an Immortal Seedling." The cultivator from the Great Expansion Dao Sect said with a serious expression. "No wonder the demoness wanted to dy time. This person''s methods are quite strange. Everyone, be careful."


    As they spoke, Fang Chen blocked more than a dozen Fighting Divine Whip attacks from the young man one by one.


    Face turning extremely dark, the young man from the Great Expansion Dao Sect looked at the Innate Dao Sect disciple. "Why are you so cautious? I haven''t even exerted my full strength yet."


    With that, the cultivator from Great Expansion Dao Sect slowly opened his tightly closed left eye, revealing a dusk-like sunset inside. At that moment, the sunlight in the world seemed to disappear, and the sky became extremely dim.


    The spiritual energy around visibly depleted at a rapid rate. However, upon careful observation, one would notice that this spiritual energy wasn''t truly disappearing but flowing into the young man''s body.


    Normally, if there was a loss of spiritual energy in the world, it would replenish continuously. However, after he opened his left eye, there was no new spiritual energy emerging in the area. That would make it impossible for cultivators to ess the elemental energy of the world. Once the spiritual energy in their bodies was depleted, they would bepletely crippled.


    "The Immortal Twilight Eyes of the Great Expansion Dao Sect is indeed formidable. Now, Daoist Xu has established himself as invincible," Zi Yun said softly.


    The child riding the ox and others nodded subconsciously. They couldn''t help but admit that the characteristics of the Immortal Twilight Eyes were effective against all cultivators.


    When Mirror of the Universe saw this, it became excited. "Brother, his left eye is the Twilight Eye. Your second-stage Radiant Divine Eyes has found its match!"


    Fang Chen melded into the shadows and reappeared beside the young man. With a wave of his hand, he severed the young man''s head. Then, in front of everyone, he reached out and dug out his left eye.


    With the head severed, the headless body fell heavily to the ground.


    The dim sky around returned to normal, and the spiritual energy that had disappeared surged back. However, the young man did not immediately die. As a Golden Core Realm cultivator and an Immortal Seedling, his vitality was extremely tenacious.


    In the instant his head was cut off, his eyes became incredibly nk, watching Fang Chen reach out and dig out his left eye. It was only then that he vaguely realized that he had been beheaded by his opponent.


    He only managed a few words, his voice hoarse. "Spare... my life..."


    Zi Yun and the others seemed to be struck by lightning as they stared nkly at the scene before them. They couldn''t understand why the person who should have been in the lead was suddenly beheaded.


    The child riding the ox spoke instinctively. "Daoist Zi, didn''t you say that Daoist Xu stood invincible?"


    Zi Yun''s face was dark. She hadn''t expected that the Immortal Seedling of the Great Expansion Dao Sect would be instantly killed.


    Fang Chen''s gaze was indifferent. Lightly exerting force in his hand, he crushed the young man''s head. Not only that, a sword light swept toward the body, and in the blink of an eye, the young man''s body was divided into evenly distributed fragments.


    If they were weighed, there probably wouldn''t be much error.


    The child riding the ox looked terrified. "Are you... are you at the Nascent Soul Realm cultivator or the Golden Core Realm?"


    As an Immortal Seedling, he had never imagined that one day, they would be effortlessly ughtered like chickens.


    Fang Chen didn''t answer him.


    In the next moment, both Zi Yun and the cultivator from the Innate Dao Sect made a move. They each struck a sword to where Fairy Yuy and then turned to flee.


    Their judgment was very urate. If the opponent could easily kill the Immortal Candidate of the Great Expansion Dao Gate, he could kill them easily too. Even if they teamed up, it would be meaningless. None of them were willing to die at the cost of giving the others a chance at victory.


    The child on the ox was stunned. <i>These guys are actually abandoning me?</i>


    Fang Chen handled their attacks with just one sword strike and then made no further moves. However, the sky around them suddenly rumbled.


    In the next moment, a copper wall reinforced with tons of metal energy rose into existence out of nowhere, enveloping the area for miles around, like a metallic prison sealing off their escape routes. Seeing that, the two instinctively unleashed their most powerful attack methods, attempting to break through the metallic prison. However, their assaults only caused the wall to let out resounding booms but didn''t manage to break it.


    "Since you''re already here, don''t think about leaving."


    This was the first thing Fang Chen had said to them since opening his eyes.

 Chapter 508: Cultivation from Birth

    <h4>Chapter 508: Cultivation from Birth</h4>


    The child on the ox trembled all over,pletely frightened as sweat poured down his body. "It''s over, it''s over!"


    They were clearlymbs to the ughter! If he had known it would be like this, he wouldn''t havee out on this trip!


    "You have already killed an Immortal Seedling. Are you going to target us next? If so, in the future, you will find it difficult to move even an inch in the Central Continent," Zi Yun said calmly as she looked at Fang Chen.


    The one from the Innate Dao Sect hurriedly said, "I surrender! I only ask for you to spare my life!"


    The child on the ox raised his hands in surrender. "I also concede!"


    Even the green ox under hismand let out a low moo, as if conceding defeat as well.


    Fang Chen looked at Zi Yun. "Do you know Jing Yuehan?"


    "I do..." answered Zi Yun, mind racing.


    She was wondering why he was asking something like that.


    "In that case, you deserve to die even more."


    Zi Yun was startled, and before she could turn her head, she felt her body lighten.


    A feeling of unease gripped Zi Yun''s heart, feeling something amiss.


    Sure enough, she heard the loud crash of a heavy object falling to the ground. Without surprise, it was her body.


    Zi Yun¡¯s head stared at Fang Chen firmly. "The Immortal Giant Sect will... avenge me...."


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "I''ll be waiting."


    Fang Chen crushed her head before severing her body with a sh. After that, Fang Chen looked at the cultivator from the Innate Dao Sect.


    "Are Immortal Seedlings so weak? What''s the difference between you and ordinary Golden Core Realm cultivators?"


    The cultivator from Innate Doa Sect spoke awkwardly. "We... we need to at least be able to handle three grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm cultivators before we can be considered Immortal Seedlings..."


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "I see."


    The aura of this group of peak Golden Core Realm cultivators was extremely powerful, far surpassing all those he had encountered before. If it weren''t for his Sword Body reaching the fourth rank, he wouldn''t be able to purely rely on his physical body to block the Fighting Divine Whip. Perhaps not even the Second Sword of the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture could kill them instantly.


    The child on the ox suddenly spoke, tears streaming down his face uncontrobly. He was like a little kid scared. "Big brother, spare my life, I never intended to kill you guys from the start. My family strongly opposed meing out, I was just curious and wanted to see the world! I wanted to see how strong Immortal Seedlings really are! I''ve never fought anyone before!"


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "You can live."


    The child was stunned. He subconsciously wiped his nose as he stared at Fang Chen nkly. "I... I can live?


    The senior from the Innate Dao Sect was taken aback when he saw that, but he quickly began to cry and beg for mercy as well.


    <i>Swoosh!</i>


    A sword light swept over, severing his head from his spine. As his head rolled, a look of confusion appeared in his eyes.


    Why couldn''t he be spared when he begged for mercy?


    After dealing with those three, Fang Chen returned to check on Fairy Yu''s injuries. Her aura had begun to stabilize by now, and her flesh and blood were slowly recovering. Her vitality seemed to have strengthened a bitpared to before.


    <i>Not bad, her injuries are stabilizing. As long as she doesn''t get injured again, she''ll recover soon.</i>


    The child riding the oxnded not far away. He cautiously said, "This... Big Brother, the blood from my green ox is a holy medicine for healing wounds. Shall I give her a little to try?"


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "Give her some."


    The child immediately filled a big bowl with blood from the ox. Then, he hurriedly ran over to Fang Chen and handed it to him.


    ncing at it, Fang Chen used his spiritual energy to check if there was anything wrong with it. After confirming that it was poison-free, he fed it to Fairy Yu.


    In just a few breaths, Fairy Yu''s injuries visibly healed at a rapid pace. Even the most severe, chest-prating wound was rapidly recovering. After a few breaths, her eyelids suddenly twitched, and she slowly opened her eyes. When she saw Fang Chen, a smile appeared on her face.


    "Lord, are they all dead?"


    The child stiffened, feeling a bit lost standing aside.


    Fang Chen smiled lightly. "No, three are dead, one is still alive."


    Fairy Yu quickly reacted and looked up and saw the child showing her an embarrassed smile. "The little kid?"


    "You should recover first. When your condition improves a bit, I will activate the teleportation formation," Fang Chen said.


    "Okay.


    Fairy Yu nodded lightly and closed her eyes again. She started to circte her spiritual energy, using the medicinal power of the ox blood to elerate the recovery of her injuries.


    Fang Chen looked at the child. "What''s your name, and where are you from?"


    "Big Brother, I''m Ning Tieniu. My family belongs to a cultivation family and hasn''t joined any sects," Ning Tieniu hurriedly replied.


    "How old are you?"


    Ning Tieniu thought for a moment and replied, "Nine years old."


    Fang Chen smiled knowingly. "Nine years old? A nine-year-old at the grandpletion stage of the Golden Core Realm? Do you think I''m easily fooled?"


    Ning Tieniu''s face showed a hint of pride at Fang Chen''s response. "I am not lying to you, Big Brother. I''m indeed nine years old, and I have indeed reached the grandpletion stage of the Golden Core Realm. My father said I was born as a natural Immortal Seedling. I reached the peak of Qi Refining after one month of cultivation, built my foundation at three, and achieved Golden Core at seven."


    Fang Chen furrowed his brows slightly.


    <i>Such a genius exists?</i> <i>Reaching the peak of Qi Refining in one month and building the foundation at three years old? Even True Immortals can''t be this miraculous.</i>


    Fairy Yu suddenly opened her eyes. "Are you from the Ning Family of the Immortal Dynasty Holy Land?"


    Ning Tieniu nodded quickly. "Yes, yes, yes."


    Fairy Yu rolled her eyes. "Lord, you can''t judge the Ning Family of the Immortal Dynasty Holy Land withmon sense. Their bloodline is special and he has probably stayed in his mother''s womb for hundreds of years."


    Fang Chen turned his attention back to Ning Tieniu. "You stayed in your mother''s womb for hundreds of years?"


    Ning Tieniu replied awkwardly, "Five hundred years. My mother told me I was the one in this generation who least wanted to be born. The others stayed for only two or three hundred years...."


    Fang Chen understood. This exined why his cultivation progressed so rapidly. With such a special bloodline, he probably had been cultivating from the moment he was conceived.


    "What rewards did Heavenly King Zhen Manor offer Immortal Seedlings in order to make them take action?" asked Fang Chen.


    "The truth is... I didn''te for the rewards. I just wanted an excuse to sneak out and see the world. Only the experts from the Innate Dao Sect and the Immortal Giant Sect came for the rewards.


    "Regarding the person from the Great Expansion Dao Sect, I suspect he was here on ount of a personal vendetta, purely to kill this sister because their sect holds deep enmity with the Void Immortal Sword Sect."


    "My lord, the Great Expansion Dao Sect indeed has deep-seated grievances with the Void Immortal Sword Sect," Fairy Yu confirmed.


    "Big Brother, with you protecting this sister, I believe Heavenly King Zhen Manor can''t do anything to you two unless they involve a Nascent Soul Realm expert. But that would vite the agreement between the manor and the Void Immortal Sword Sect."


    Ning Tieniu''s face showed admiration. "My parents once said that even if I''m not invincible among Golden Core Realm Immortal Seedlings, I should at least rank in the top hundred in the Central Continent Empire. But seeing your abilities, I realize there are always greater talents out there. You can rank in the top ten easily!"


    "No need to butter me up. I said I won''t kill you, so I won''t," Fang Chen replied calmly.


    Ning Tieniu was embarrassed that he was so easily seen through.


    "You can leave now."


    "Really? Then I''ll take my leave. If you ever encounter trouble in the future, you cane to the Immortal Dynasty Holy Land and find the Ning Family. I, Ning Tieniu, owe you a huge favor!" Ning Tieniu said some customary words.


    He then quickly mounted his green ox and fled the scene, not wanting to stay a moment longer.

 Chapter 509: Ancient Immortal Road

    <h4>Chapter 509: Ancient Immortal Road</h4>


    Fairy Yu looked at the sorry figure Ning Tieniu cut as he left and softly said, "Lord, aren''t you afraid of letting the tiger return to the mountain? The Immortal Dynasty Holy Land''s Ning Family is not easy to deal with."


    "This child''s nature is not bad. I can see that." Fang Chen smiled. "Even if we let the tiger return to the mountain, if hees to trouble us again, it''ll only take a single sword strike for him to be dealt with. It''s not that big of a deal."


    Fairy Yu suddenly felt joyful. "Now that you can y even Immortal Seedlings, as long as Nascent Soul Realm cultivators don''t take action, no one will be your match, right?"


    Fang Chen shook his head lightly. "It''s hard to say. Cultivators have unpredictable means. If it¡¯s someone with more cunning techniques, I don¡¯t know how it¡¯ll turn out."


    He was able to easily kill Immortal Seedlings because of the Shadow Buddha Technique and his fourth-rank Sword Body.


    After Little Sword ascended to the fourth rank, its attacking power became even more terrifying. However, killing the three Immortal Seedlings had not been as simple as it seemed. All three of them had spiritual barriers protecting them, and they were far stronger than ordinary grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm cultivators.


    If Little Sword hadn''t ascended to the fourth rank, it would have been troublesome to deal with them.


    However... What Fairy Yu said was correct. This time, with Little Sword ascending to the fourth rank, it unlocked a new inheritance. This inheritance was not a technique or cultivation method but the patched bloodstain on the sword body.


    That was the blood of immortals. Even though these immortals have long since passed away, the bloodstains still contain mighty, terrifying power.


    As long as he paid a certain price, Fang Chen could temporarily use this power. If he used it, he might very well be able to kill Nascent Soul Realm cultivators with a single strike. However, the price to be paid was quite expensive.... Unless absolutely necessary, Fang Chen did not want to resort to this trump card at all.


    Fairy Yu smiled. "Lord, you may not know how much weight the two words ''Immortal Seedlings'' hold in the Central Continent Empire."


    Fang Chen''s eyes lit up. "Are there many Immortal Candidates in the Central Continent Empire?"


    "There are very few." Fairy Yu shook her head lightly. "You see, the Void Immortal Sword Sect is known to have a hundred thousand sword cultivators. However, in this generation, the sect does not even have one Immortal Seedling. Perhaps when Senior Sister Jing ascends to the grandpletion stage of Golden Core Realm, she can join the ranks of Immortal Seedlings through the Immortal Seedling assessment."


    "The Void Immortal Sword Sect doesn''t have any Immortal Seedlings?" Fang Chen was surprised. "What''s this assessment about?"


    Fairy Yu thought for a moment. Then, she began, "I''m not too sure about the specifics. Senior Sister mentioned it before. In a certain boundary of the Central Continent Empire, there seems to be an ancient Immortal Road. It is rumored that in ancient times, those who could traverse this Immortal Road could be epted to the Immortal Realm without ascension.


    "However, at some point, it seems that the gates to the Immortal Realm closed. Whether it''s ascension or passing through this Immortal Road, no one can enter the Immortal Realm. Since then, even those who sessfullyplete the ancient Immortal Road cannot reach the Immortal Realm. However, these people are from that point called Immortal Seedlings, and they are akin to treasures to the major sects."


    After a moment, Fairy Yu added, "Think about it, my lord. Even in the past, the Immortal Realm was willing to ept them prematurely, this goes to show how high their potential is."


    Fang Chen was somewhat surprised. <i>An Ancient Immortal Road?</i>


    He never imagined that there used to exist such a way for talents to ascend to the Immortal Ream early.


    Fang Chen inquired internally, "<i>Little Mirror, did the Ancient Immortal Road really used to do that</i>?"


    "<i>What she said is roughly correct. Talent in the Immortal Realm is also extremely scarce. Some Immortal Realm Sects use this method to ept talented individuals with the potential to be immortals early. They fear that these talents will die prematurely due to various reasons if they stay in the mortal realm, so it''s better to protect them in the Immortal Realm</i>," Mirror of the Universe replied.


    Fang Chen originally thought that "Immortal Seedling" was just a title the various major sects in the Central Continent Empire used. Now it seemed that the term "Immortal Seedling" did carry weight.


    If these were the ancient times, these three he had killed would have long ascended to the Immortal Realm by now....


    Seeing Fang Chen deep in thought, Fairy Yu blurted, "Lord, if you have the chance in the future, it''s best to walk on the Ancient Immortal Road."


    Fang Chen chuckled. "Why? Those empty titles are of no use to me."


    "Of course, you don¡¯t need those empty titles. You¡¯re naturally the most formidable," Fairy Yu yfully said, "But there are opportunities on the Ancient Immortal Road. Why let others have them when you can snatch them for yourself?"


    Fang Chen was surprised. "What opportunities?"


    ¡°I have heard there is good stuff left behind from the Immortal Realm. Zi Yun, who you had killed earlier, sessfully traversed the Ancient Immortal Road and ate a kind of spiritual fruit that could only be found in the Immortal Realm. Originally, she was only ten feet tall, but after she ate that fruit, she grew to twenty feet. Her strength and talent increased significantly too.¡±


    Fairy Yu chuckled and continued, "My senior sister was always very envious when she mentioned this. When she reaches the grandpletion stage of the Golden Core Realm, she will definitely also tread the Ancient Immortal Road."


    Fang Chen''s eyes lit up. "Is this road... not limited by cultivation level?"


    Fairy Yu exined, "It is limited. Only Golden Core Realm cultivators can enter. Those below and above the Golden Core Realm cannot enter. So, if one cannot be an Immortal Seedling while they are in the Golden Core Realm, they can never be one in their lifetime."


    Fang Chen nodded slightly. When he had the opportunity in the future, he would go take a look. But for now, the priority was to resolve Fairy Yu''s problems.


    Several dayster, Fairy Yu''s injuries werepletely healed.


    Fang Chen took out two thousand low-grade spirit stones and ced them around the teleportation formation. After cing them, he waited for a few breaths, and then the teleportation formation began to flicker faintly with white light. They stood in the center of the array, and before long, they were engulfed by a white light.


    When the two opened their eyes again, they heard the melodious sound of bells hit their ears. The bells rang continuously, without interruption. It was unclear where the sound wasing from.


    Fang Chen''s divine soul left his body to inspect the surroundings.


    The two were now in a deste wilderness. The teleportation formation here was also overgrown with weeds, indicating that it had been abandoned for a long time.


    Fairy Yu looked around curiously. "Lord, where is this?"


    The Central Continent Empire was vast. Even though she had been in the Void Immortal Sword Sect for many years, it''s actually rare to say which ces she had visited.


    ¡°I''m not sure either. Xia Ji''s route only goes up to here.¡± Fang Chen shook his head with a smile. ¡°Let''s go find someone to ask for directions and see which direction leads to the Greenwood Sect.¡±


    One monthter, the two finally saw a residence in the wilderness, bustling with activity at the entrance, as if hosting a banquet.


    Fairy Yu observed the residence closely. Shortlyter, she said with a hint of envy, ¡°Lord, looks like someone is getting married.¡±


    The residence was festooned withnterns and decorations, clearly indicating a joyous asion.


    Fang Chen said with a smile. ¡°That''s perfect. Let''s go over, give a gift, and ask for directions.¡±


    He led Fairy Yu to the front of the residence, where a middle-aged man was standing and holding a book and a pen.


    When the middle-aged man saw them, he was surprised a little. They were unfamiliar faces. ¡°Who are you two?¡±


    ¡°We are passing cultivators. We noticed that your residence seems to be having a celebration, so we brought a gift. We also wanted to take the chance to ask for directions."


    Fang Chen took out a hundred low-grade spirit stones and handed them over.


    <i>Passing cultivator?</i>


    ncing at the hundred low-grade spirit stones, the middle-aged man''s eyes shed with a sliver of disdain. Nevertheless, he took the spirit stones, put them away, and calmly said, "Where are you two heading? I know this area quite well and should be able to help you."


    Fang Chen asked, "Do you happen to know the direction of the Greenwood Sect?"


    The middle-aged man with struck with surprise. <i>The Greenwood Sect?!</i>


    Confused, he replied, "What sect is that? I''ve never heard of it."


    "<i>Lord, it seems we are quite a distance away from the Greenwood Sect</i>," Fairy Yu said through voice transmission.


    Fang Chen sighed inwardly, realizing that there had to be a considerable distance separating the two ces, so much so that the cultivator in front of him did not even recognize the name of the Greenwood Sect.


    Just then, a wedding procession came from the sky, and among the grand red carriages, there was an aura that felt oddly familiar to Fang Chen.

 Chapter 510: The Toll of the Funeral Bell

    <h4>Chapter 510: The Toll of the Funeral Bell</h4>


    Fairy Yu knew Fang Chen very well. She quickly caught that his gaze was off and said through voice transmission, "<i>Lord, what''s wrong</i>?"


    Fang Chen looked at Fairy Yu and smiled. "How about we stay here today and enjoy the wedding feast?"


    Fairy Yu was slightly surprised but nodded with a smile. "Sure."


    As long as she could be with Fang Chen, she was happy no matter what they did.


    "Both of you, today is the joyous day of our king''s wedding... If you don''t have an invitation, it''s probably best to leave," the middle-aged man said calmly.


    Fang Chen showed the middle-aged man a light smile. "Thedy your king is marrying is someone I know. Can''t we just stay for a meal?"


    The middle-aged man''s eyes flickered slightly, the disdain in his eyes fading a bit, though he still seemed skeptical. "You know thedy?"


    Fang Chen asked with a smile, "Is yourdy''s surname Tu?"


    The middle-aged man burst intoughter. "Hahaha, turns out you''re esteemed guests from thedy''s side. Pleasee in."


    His attitude improved immediately. He instructed a servant to escort the two into the residence.


    Fairy Yu looked somewhat skeptical. "Lord, do you really know the bride?"


    This was the Central Continent. She knew Fang Chen had never been here before. How could he know a woman from the Central Continent?


    Fang Chen nodded slightly and sent a voice transmission, "<i>She is the master of the Qinghu Empire. We had a brief encounter in the past, but I didn''t expect to meet her here. Since that middle-aged man doesn''t know where the Greenwood Sect is, we can ask the guests. Someone must know.</i>"


    "The Qinghu Empire?" muttered Fairy Yu.


    She nodded slightly. She had heard of that country as it was just next to the Grand Qian Empire.


    The servant led the two to the banquet hall of the mansion, where hundreds of tables were set up, bustling with people and filled with delicacies fromnd and sea. Everyone was dining and chatting joyously.


    A senior man in a crimson robe was moving around with a group of followers, holding a wine cup and mingling among the various cultivators. Blessings and congrattions poured out from the mouths of the cultivators, making the old man smile with delight. His was at the Golden Core Realm, and most of the guests were also at the Golden Core Realm or Foundation Building Realm, with some Qi Refining Realm cultivators being either servants of the residence or disciples brought by the guests.


    However, about ny percent of the cultivators present had a faint trace of demonic qi on them, including the old man in the crimson robe.


    "May I ask about your cultivation levels?" the servant respectfully inquired.


    "Golden Core Realm," replied Fairy Yu with a soft smile.


    "Golden Core Realm?" The servant nodded slightly and pointed to a ce, saying, "Your seats are over there. Please take your ces."


    Fang Chen and Fairy Yu went to a table where seven or eight people were seated. They were all also at the Golden Core Realm.


    When the people sitting saw two unfamiliar people walk up to their table, their eyes filled with surprise.


    After they sat down, Fairy Yu started serving food to Fang Chen, looking like a devoted wife.


    "You two are so affectionate, it''s truly enviable. May I know how to address you and which immortal mountain you cultivate at?" someone said from the side.


    It was a well-built middle-aged man with bright green eyes and silver-white hair on his cheeks and hands. He was seated next to Fang Chen and was clearly a demonic cultivator.


    He was smiling as he looked at the two, his eyes lingering a few moments on Fairy Yu.


    "I am Fang Cangyou, and this is my wife. We are wandering cultivators. Please forgive any inconvenience caused." Fang Chen smiled.


    "A married couple?" muttered Fairy Yu, her smile widening.


    She picked up a bright green fruit and fed it to Fang Chen. "Husband, this fruit is very sweet. Try it."


    Fang Chen chewed on it and nodded with a smile. "Indeed, it''s sweet. Dear, have some more."


    When they heard that Fang Chen and Fairy Yu were merely wandering cultivators, the people seated at the table lost interest in them and continued their earlier chatter.


    "Everyone, the funeral bell has been ringing for twenty-seven days straight. I¡¯m afraid everyone in the Central Continent Empire has heard it. This indicates that the Immortal Seedlings have met their demise. What could have happened for even Immortal Seedlings to perish?" said a female demonic cultivator, sighing.


    She continued, "Such existences are among the top in terms of strength and background. I wonder who dared to kill them. I''m sure the major sects will not sit idly by."


    "There must be a major event urring. Otherwise, how could they fall? In normal circumstances, who would dare harm them? This is an unforgivable grudge," another cultivator added.


    Fang Chen and Fairy Yu were struck with realization. "Funeral bell?"


    No wonder they heard a mournful bell the moment they arrived here. For them, it had been going on for more than twenty days. It turned out to be the funeral bell because Immortal Seedlings had fallen.


    <i>I''m a bit worried that this funeral bell itself is a highly-ranked treasure, possibly above the Heaven rank. Otherwise, how could its toll resonate throughout the entire Central Continent?</i>


    "Lord, they are talking about you. I didn''t expect that these sects would announce the death of the Immortal Seedlings to the world," whispered Fairy Yu.


    Fang Chen said with a hint of a smile on his face, "They just want to let everyone know that this grudge will be avenged. They are letting their attitude be known."


    Fairy Yu furrowed her brow slightly. "That''s troublesome..."


    "I have actually been able to be a cultivator because of a senior from the Central Continent Empire. Once your matter is resolved, I will join that senior''s sect. I believe this sect isn''t any weaker than those Immortal Seedlings'' sects. If they want to mess with me, it might not be so easy. You don''t need to worry," reassured Fang Chen.


    "Lord, which sect is it?" Fairy Yu was curious.


    Fang Chen chuckled and transmitted, "<i>Three Thousand Dao Sect. Have you ever heard of it?</i>"


    "<i>Three Thousand Dao Sect? I don''t think I''ve heard of it...</i>"


    Fairy Yu paused for a moment. Then, she said, "It''s probably just my limited knowledge. The Central Continent Empire is vast after all. It''s so vast that even cultivators in the Middle Three Realms may spend their entire lives without fully exploring it. It''s normal not to know a few top-tier sects."


    However, Fang Chen still found it rather strange. <i>If the Three Thousand Dao Sect is on the level of the Void Immortal Sword Sect, how could Fairy Yu not have heard of it?</i>


    "Could it be that the Three Thousand Dao Sect is a reclusive sect that rarely interacts with the outside world?" Fang Chen mused to himself.


    This exnation seemed quite usible. Thinking back to Senior Yun He''s carefree attitude as he traveled across the world, Fang Chen became curious about the Three Thousand Dao Sect and wondered what it would be like there.


    Soon, the topic of conversation shifted from the bell to the present time''s major sects. Therefore Fang Chen interjected, "Do any of you know about the Greenwood Sect?"


    "Greenwood Sect? Never heard of it," replied the others with the same puzzled expressions as the middle-aged man earlier. It seemed like they truly hadn''t heard of the Greenwood Sect.


    Fang Chen couldn''t help but smile bitterly. It appeared that the Greenwood Sect was not considered top-tier and was probably not even first-tier within the Central Continent Empire. However, there were many people here, so there might be someone who knew of its existence. He decided to ask again at the first opportunity.


    Meanwhile, the middle-aged man whispered a few words to the old man in the red robe and then nced at Fang Chen and Fairy Yu.


    The old man''s eyes lit up when he saw Fairy Yu.

 Chapter 511: Kick Them Out

    <h4>Chapter 511: Kick Them Out </h4>


    "Little Mirror, about the journey to Greenwood Sect and Three Thousand Dao Sect, give me an urate number, don''t beat around the bush."


    Upon arriving in the Central Continent Empire, Fang Chen and Fairy Yu flew for several days without encountering any cultivators. They had nned to spend some spirit stones to have Mirror of the Universe provide them with the route. However, the Mirror of the Universe hinted that Fang Chen couldn''t afford the spirit stones, and Fang Chen didn''t think much about it.


    Now that he saw that the cultivators here didn''t know about Greenwood Sect and Fairy Yu didn''t know about Three Thousand Dao Sect, Fang Chen suddenly felt a bit suspicious.


    "Brother, it''s not that I''m beating around the bush, it''s just that the amount is toorge. Even I can''t urately estimate it. I''m afraid that if I give you a number, I won''t be able to give you resultster, damaging my reputation."


    Mirror of the Universe earnestly said, "Why would I not want to earn spirit stones if I can? I just don¡¯t want to shake your trust in me."


    "Why is the amount sorge?" Fang Chen frowned. "It''s just a single route, right?"


    "To be honest, the greater the karmic entanglement, the more spirit stones are needed. Whether it''s the Three Thousand Dao Sect or the Greenwood Sect, they are both heavily involved in karma. Thetter is somewhat better because the karma is not rted to itself but to an immortal tree nted some time ago."


    "An immortal tree?"


    "Yes, ites from the Ancient Immortal Road. Because of the existence of this immortal tree, the Greenwood Sect is heavily involved in karma. Fortunately, this happened recently. Otherwise... I''m afraid you wouldn''t even be able to afford to learn about the Vast Origin Fruit in the Greenwood Sect."


    "It seems that the Greenwood Sect had a Golden Core discipleplete the Ancient Immortal Road recently and be an Immortal Seedling," Fang Chen pondered.


    At that moment, the cultivators seated at the table stood up one after another. They raised their cups, and one of them said, "Daoist Wu, congrattions! I heard that your newlywed wife is from the Qinghu Family? That''s an ancient royal family. You deserve a thumbs up for being able to be Dao Companions with them."


    The old man in the red robe smiled happily. "It''s just luck, just luck. Although it''s an ancient royal n, the Qinghu Family has declined for many years. Otherwise, I wouldn''t have been able to marry into it."


    As he smiled and drank with everyone, he secretly assessed Fairy Yu with a subtle lust in his eyes.


    The old man surnamed Wu turned his attention toward Fang Chen and Fairy Yu warmly. "Excuse me, I heard you two are familiar with my wife?"


    Fang Chen smiled and replied, "We have known your wife for many years."


    "That''s good, that''s good. I regret not inviting more of my wife''s family today. Since you two are acquainted with my wife, you are considered part of her family. Please enjoy the food and drinks. When the timees, I will invite her toe out and meet everyone. This way, you three can catch up," The old man surnamed Wu said, smile widening.


    After a pause, he looked at Fairy Yu and then at Fang Chen with curiosity in his eyes. "Are you two siblings?"


    The man next to Fang Chen couldn''t help butugh and say, "Daoist Wu, you misunderstood. These two are obviously a divine couple."


    The old man surnamed Wu squinted slightly. "Oh? You two are a couple."


    He nodded with a smile and raised his cup to walk toward another table.


    "<i>My lord, the way that old man looks at me feels strange. It seems like he''s not a decent person,</i>" Fairy Yu transmitted her thoughts to Fang Chen.


    ¡°<i>Maybe he recognized our identities</i>,¡± Fang Chen said with a faint smile.


    It didn''t matter what was on the old man''s mind. If he, the groom, wanted to cause trouble, Fang Chen wouldn''t mind gouging his eyes out and setting them to the side as he had his fill of drink. The way he looked at them was quite ufortable indeed.


    With that in mind, Fang Chen remembered that the Twilight Eye was still stored in his storage ring. With that item, he only needed a few more spiritual materials to attempt to advance to the second realm of the Radiant Divine Eye.


    The Radiant Divine Eye had already shown its might during his encounter with the Immortal Seedlings. The metal elemental energy he condensed was far stronger than the average metal elemental energy. It could withstand the full force of two Immortal Seedling bombarding it at the same time, one from the Giant Sect and the other from the Innate Dao Sect.


    This was a feat that even a high-grade, yellow-rank treasure might not be able to achieve. The power Fang Chen wielded manipting the five elements was stronger than the power a high-grade, yellow-rank treasure could unleash. It could even rival a peak-grade treasure.


    If he advanced to the second realm of the Radiant Divine Eye, his power would increase significantly.


    Suddenly, a thought struck Fang Chen. ¡°Oh right, the Killing Spiritual Division members might know where the Greenwood Sect is."


    Fang Chen took out a transmission talisman and held it in his palm.


    [Does anyone know the location of the Greenwood Sect?]


    Fang Chen waited for a while but received no response.


    In the end, he decided that it was either that there were no Killing Spiritual Division members within a thousand miles, or, as Immortal Void Rush had said, they didn''t bother to respond as they didn''t like to interact much with each other.


    Fang Chen was about to put away the transmission talisman when unexpectedly received a response.


    [The Greenwood Sect is in the Immortal Dynasty Holy Land. Are you nning on joining in on the fun? I advise you to let go of that thought. Everyone is eyeing the Immortal Tree the Greenwood Sect brought back. It''s not something ordinary people can touch.]


    <i>The Greenwood Sect is in the Immortal Dynasty Holy Land? Ning Tieniu''s hometown? </i>


    Fang Chen was surprised and decided to ask a few more questions.


    However, the person on the other end seemed aloof and did not respond to his messages anymore.


    Fang Chen sighed inwardly, feeling rather worried. "Little Mirror didn''t lie to me. The Greenwood Sect has been entangled in karmately. No wonder Litte Mirror can''t provide any information rted to the Greenwood Sect."


    It was such a coincidence that the Greenwood Sect had inadvertently caused some trouble now. This would affect their n of requesting a Vast Origin Fruit.


    Suddenly, the excited voice of the old man surnamed Wu snapped Fang Chen back from his thoughts.


    "Everyone!" the old man called out loudly.


    As he spoke, he led a woman who had a red cloth covering her head and was dressed in a red wedding gown to the center of the banquet hall. He loudlyughed. "I brought my wife to meet you all, so we can get familiar with each other. If you ever bump into my wife, please be kind to her."


    The crowdughed and responded.


    "Daoist Wu, you¡¯re being too courteous!"


    "Daoist Wu, please rest assured, we wouldn''t dare to offend her."


    The old man''s lips slightly curved upwards. He removed the red cloth covering his wife''s head, revealing an extremely beautiful face.


    Seeing her face, the old man felt intoxicated. It took him a few moments before he came back to his senses. Smiling, he invited, "Dear, let''s raise a toast to our guests."


    The Qinghu Ruler seemed somewhat numb, and there was a hint of reluctance in her eyes.


    Fang Chen''s face was covered in realization as he transmitted, "<i>Little Yu, I might have misunderstood. The Qinghu Empire''s ruler is probably being forced into this marriage.</i>"


    He had initially thought it was a marriage alliance. After all, the Qinghu Empire¡¯s ruler was only at the grandpletion stage of the Foundation Building Realm, while the old man was at the grandpletion stage of the Golden Core Realm. Marrying someone at the Golden Core Realm when one was at the Foundation Building Realm should logically be a happy asion.


    But that didn¡¯t seem to be the case from the Qinghu ruler¡¯s expression.


    "You promised me that if I married you, you would release my daughter and my sister," the Qinghu Empire ruler said slowly. "Where are they?"


    The old man surnamed Wu''s face sank. The atmosphere in the room suddenly quieted down. The guest''s expressions were both strange and understanding, as if they had seen this before.


    The old man surnamed Wu smiled superficially. "Dear, this is a joyous day. Let''s not bring up these unpleasant matters. Once you and I are in the bridal chamber, we will be a family. At that time, how could I harm my own rtives?"


    After saying that, he started going around the tables and giving toasts. Before long, he reached the table where Fang Chen was seated.


    The old man smiled ambiguously. "Dear, these two said they are familiar with you. Do you recognize them?"


    The Qinghu Empire ruler was slightly taken aback and looked at Fang Chen a few times. Gradually, a hint of surprise appeared in her eyes. She muttered reflexively, "You''re not dead..."


    However, she abruptly swallowed the words down her throat and frowned. "I don''t recognize them. Kick them out."

 Chapter 512: Stag Ginseng

    <h4>Chapter 512: Stag Ginseng</h4>


    The people seated with Fang Chen and Fairy Yu were surprised.


    <i>She doesn¡¯t know them?</i>


    They weren''t fools; the Qinghu Empire ruler¡¯s initial reaction clearly indicated that she recognized the two. Her sudden shift in attitude caused their minds to wander with spections.


    "Hmm?" The old man''s face darkened as he looked at Fang Chen. "You im to know my wife. It seems you''re lying to me. Since today is a happy asion, I won''t make things difficult for you. You can leave."


    "What''s the background of these two cultivators? How dare they impersonate her acquaintances?"


    "Are they trying to establish a rtionship with Senior Wu by doing this?"


    Many cultivators whispered to each other.


    Fang Chen nced at the Qinghu Empire ruler. Seeing how she didn''t even look at them, her eyes elsewhere, looking cold, Fang Chen smiled and pulled Fairy Yu away, preparing to leave.


    "Hold on." The old man raised his hand lightly. "You can leave, but this youngdy will stay and enjoy the feast."


    Fairy Yu frowned. "Since you want to send my husband away, why should I stay?"


    The old man smiled warmly. "Youngdy, I am a person who cherishes beauty and talent. Staying here has more prospects than following your husband. Do you want to consider it?"


    The surrounding Golden Core Realm cultivators chuckled at his words, some even chimed in, "Indeed, youngdy, seeing how beautiful you are, it''s better to stay with Daoist Wu. In this world, who doesn''t know that Daoist Wu cherishes beauty and talent the most?"


    ¡°Daoist Wu, why not make it a double celebration today and take this youngdy as well, adding to the joyous asion?" A Golden Core Realm demonic cultivator with sharp features joked as he sneered.


    This demonic cultivator''s voice was unpleasant and grating. He kept staring at Fairy Yu while making lustful gestures.


    The Qinghu Empire ruler''s expression changed slightly, her brows furrowing. She transmitted a message to Fang Chen, "<i>Quickly take her away from here. This demon cultivator isn''t easy to deal with, and his background is not simple.</i>"


    Fang Chen''s eyes narrowed slightly. "<i>What background does he have?</i>"


    The Qinghu Empire ruler''s expression was serious. "<i>He has a Nascent Soul Realm Demon King backing him.</i>"


    <i>A Nascent Soul Realm Demon King?</i>


    Fang Chen pondered. With his fourth-rank Sword Body and the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture, he might not be helpless facing an early-stage Nascent Soul Realm cultivator.


    Upon hearing the suggestions from the surrounding cultivators, the old man surnamed Wu was overjoyed andughed heartily. "I cannot disappoint everyone with such hospitality!"


    Then, he smiled warmly at Fairy Yu, his face filled with affection, "Youngdy, I don''t mind your past. Today, I can also ensure your former husband leaves safely, as long as you''re willing to be my partner."


    Fairy Yu chuckled angrily and pointed at the ruler of the Qinghu Empire. "What about your wife?"


    "I am a grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm cultivator; having multiple wives and concubines ismon," said Old Wu proudly.


    Fairy Yu looked at Fang Chen and transmitted her thoughts, "<i>Lord, shall we kill him?</i>"


    Fang Chen nodded.


    At that moment, a voice echoed from the guest room, ¡°The Rainbow King''s Crown Prince has arrived!¡±


    As the voice fell, a handsome young man slowly entered the banquet hall. His hair disyed seven different colors, making him look very splendid. The cultivators present were all surprised and quickly stood up to greet him.


    Old Wu''s face lit up with joy, and he walked toward the young man with a big smile. "Your Highness, I didn''t expect you to personally attend my wedding banquet. I am truly honored!"


    The handsome young man smiled and replied, "You are my father''s most trusted confidant. Your wedding is a joyous asion. How could I note? My father instructed me to bring a congrattory gift for you. Don''t be modest."


    With that, the handsome young man took out a jade box and opened it. Inside was a crimson gold ginseng, exuding rich spiritual energy. It was clearly not an ordinary item.


    A mischievous smile appeared on the handsome young man''s face. "This is a peak-grade, yellow-rank Stag Ginseng. Consuming this will enhance your virility, vitality, and robustness. In the future, you will be unbeatable in the bridal chambers."


    <i>Stag Ginseng?</i>


    Many cultivators gasped in admiration. That was a rare peak, yellow-rank spiritual medicine that was often priceless and hard toe by.


    Old Wu looked at the Stag Ginseng with joy and gratitude, his face wreathed in happiness. Finally, he said, "I never expected the Rainbow King to be so thoughtful. This Stag Ginseng is the best gift. I am truly grateful!"


    <i>The Stag Ginseng... It''s just what I need to advance to the second stage of the Radiant Divine Eyes, </i>Fang Chen thought.


    He smiled with satisfaction. Today''s trip was indeed worthwhile.


    With the Stag Ginseng and the Twilight Eye in hand, and a few more spiritual medicines, he could use them to unlock the second realm of the Radiant Divine Eyes.


    "Your Highness,e here, let me introduce you. This is my first wife, and this is the second wife I am preparing to marry. It''s embarrassing to say, but this Stag Ginseng arrived just in time."


    Old Wu warmly held the arm of the handsome young man and brought him to the presence of the Qinghu Empire ruler. Then, he introduced him to Fairy Yu. The handsome young man smiled ambiguously, his gaze lingering on the Qinghu ruler for quite some time before nodding slightly. Then, he looked at Fairy Yu. However strangely, his smile froze.


    Old Wu didn''t notice and continued to talk about how he coincidentally met Fairy Yu today and how he developed a bit of admiration for her, causing everyone tough out loud.


    Finally, Old Wu frowned and shouted at Fang Chen, "Why are you still here? Do you want to watch your ex-wife and me in the bridal chamber?"


    This remark triggeredughter from many Golden Core Realm demon cultivators and Foundation Building Realm demon cultivators, while only a few human cultivators forced a smile, their eyes showing a hint of pity. Clearly, they were agreeing insincerely, and many of them looked at Fang Chen with a tinge of sympathy.


    The two of them were unfortunate to end up in this realm and encounter this demon cultivator surnamed Wu, who had a terrifying obsession with women.


    The handsome young man''s smile had disappeared by now. His eyes shifted to Fang Chen, his face turning pale.


    "Old Wu, perhaps you should reconsider today''s wedding," said the handsome young man, hinting.


    Old Wu was taken aback and frowned. "Your Highness, is there something wrong?"


    "Just reconsider it. I have some matters to attend to today, so I''ll take my leave first," said the handsome young man lightly.


    He patted Old Wu''s shoulder and then turned to leave.


    Old Wu quickly grabbed the handsome young man''s arm, looking puzzled, "Your Highness, what''s the matter?"


    It was clear that the handsome young man came to congratte him but had a change of heart out of nowhere.


    Old Wu felt uneasy, wondering if he unintentionally offended the young man or if there was some meaning behind the scenes from the Rainbow King.


    Seeing that Old Wu had grabbed his arm, the handsome young man grew both shocked and furious. "Let go of me!"


    Old Wu waspletely stunned.


    The lively atmosphere in the banquet hall gradually quieted down.


    Fairy Yu looked at the handsome young man and smiled ambiguously. "Do you recognize us?"


    The handsome young man looked conflicted for a moment. Then, he calmed down and looked at Fairy Yu with confusion. "Youngdy, we''ve never met before. How could I recognize you?"


    "Your Highness, could it be that you''re interested in this youngdy too? If so, I''m willing to make a sacrifice and give her to you," offered Old Wu, his voice low.


    The handsome young man suddenly exploded in anger. "Shut up!"


    He pped Old Wu''s face hard. The force behind the p was substantial. It almost revealed Old Wu''s true form, showing a centipede head on his face briefly before returning to normal.

 Chapter 513: Why Not Just Kill Him

    <h4>Chapter 513: Why Not Just Kill Him</h4>


    Old Wu covered his cheek, looking nkly at the handsome youth. He looked utterly confused.


    As a grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm cultivator, although he was a trusted subordinate under the Rainbow King, he had enough autonomy. He upied a mountain peak with hundreds of lesser demons under hismand, who referred to him as the "Great King" every day.


    Even the Rainbow King wouldn''t easily p him like this; for a Golden Core Realm cultivator, it was aplete humiliation.


    The banquet hall fell into an incredibly heavy silence. Whether they were Golden Core or Foundation Building Realm cultivators, they could only watch silently, their thoughts fluctuating with spections arising.


    The handsome youth bowed respectfully to Fang Chen and Fairy Yu and began, "Two esteemed guests, I won''t pretend anymore. I have identified you both. Everything today was instigated by this centipede demon on its own and has nothing to do with me or my father.


    "If I had known that this centipede demon dared to be so audacious, I would have informed my father long ago and had him prepare a coffin for this centipede demon."


    The handsome youth''s manner and speech were extremely humble, far from the demeanor of the Rainbow King''s son.


    Everyone gasped in realization, understanding why the behavior of the Rainbow King''s son had be so strange.


    "What background do these two have that can scare the son of the Rainbow King like this?"


    "Old Wu is in trouble today..."


    People whispered to each other, and curiosity appeared in the eyes of many demon Golden Core Realm cultivators, with a hint of gloating hidden in their eyes.


    Old Wu looked somewhat bewildered. ¡°Young Highness... are they...?¡±


    The Qinghu Empire''s ruler was surprised, and she couldn''t help but shoot Fang Chen a few nces.


    "Now that you have recognized us, don''t you want to capture us for merit? The benefits Heavenly King Zhen is offering must be substantial," Fang Chen said with a faint smile.


    "You''re joking. How could we dare to get involved in such matters? Whether it''s regarding Heavenly King Zhen or you two, we only have endless reverence in our hearts," the handsome youth said sincerely.


    <i>Endless reverence!? Heavenly King Zhen¡¯s Manor?!</i>


    The crowd grew perplexed. The background of these two individuals might be even greater than they imagined.


    "Moreover..." the handsome youth sighed bitterly, "even Immortal Seedlings perished by your hands, and the funeral bells echoed throughout the heavens and earth for a full twenty-seven days. As long as your enemy is at the Nascent Soul Realm, no one could rival you in the word."


    The banquet hall echoed with gasps of shock. "Gasp...."


    The Golden Core Realm demon cultivator who sat with Fang Chen almost had his teeth knocked out from the shock.


    Old Wu''s face turned pale as if he had realized Fairy Yu''s origins. His arm trembled slightly, and he couldn''t even meet Fairy Yu and Fang Chen''s gaze.


    "Could this be the Demoness Yu from the Void Immortal Sword Sect?"


    "Old Wu is in deep trouble this time. If he survives today, I''ll change myst name to Wu."


    "They killed Immortal Seedlings. The Jade Demoness''s husband, in terms of strength and background, is not someone ordinary cultivators can provoke!"


    The toll of the funeral bells for a full twenty-seven days not only mourned the fall of Immortal Seedlings, but it also served as a battle cry from the sects behind those Immortal Seedlings.


    It was evident that this matter could not be easily resolved. These two individuals before them were the ones who caused the bell to toll for twenty-seven days straight. They had been able to kill Immortal Seedlings, people who had the qualifications to ascend to the Immortal Realm prematurely.


    Weren''t all the Golden Core Realm present like ants to them?


    Fairy Yu smiled and said to Fang Chen, "Dear, this person is quite interesting. Let''s just not kill him."


    Fang Chen nodded lightly.


    The handsome youth let out a sigh of relief.


    He saw Fang Chen take the jade box from Old Wu''s hand and look at it.


    Fang Chen asked him, "Apart from this Stag Ginseng, do you happen to have Swallow Ice Grass and Purple Whisker Flower?"


    The handsome youth was slightly surprised. He pondered for a moment and then quickly nodded. "Yes, I do have them."


    "You can have someone send them over. We''ll wait here," Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    "No problem, no problem."


    The handsome youth quickly took out a Transmission Talisman and instructed his subordinates to send the required spiritual materials to Fang Chen.


    After that, he smiled at Fang Chen and said, "Daoist, how should we deal with this Centipede Demon?"


    "Daoist, it''s a misunderstanding. This is all a misunderstanding! It was that guy who made me have evil thoughts. He is the real culprit!"


    Old Wu''s scalp was numb as he immediately began to exin, pointing at a Gold Core demon cultivator with a sharp-mouthed and monkey-cheeked appearance who was dumbfounded.


    "I''m not... I..." The Gold Core Realm demon cultivator also wanted to exin, but before he could finish speaking, he was obliterated by a sh of sword light.


    A living Golden Core Realm cultivator had been killed just like that. All that remained of him was a few ashes and a lone storage ring.


    Fairy Yu extended her hand and the storage ring fell into her palm. She immediately began to refine it.


    The guests were startled.


    They felt as if they had awakened from a dream. They tried to recall that sword strike they saw just now, but no matter how hard they tried, they couldn''t remember.


    However, they threw that to the back of their minds as they became horrified.


    They wouldn''t have been able to block that sword strike either!


    Some Golden Core Realm demon cultivators who were just speaking in a flowery manner were now drenched in cold sweat as they stood up straight in a serious manner, not daring to take a breath.


    Fang Chen looked at Qinghu¡¯s Lord and smiled lightly. "Qinghu'' Ruler, how did you fall into this person''s hands? Did he kidnap your daughter?"


    "My daughter and my younger sister are both in his hands." The Qinghu ruler nodded softly. She then looked at Old Wu and asked, "Where are they?"


    "They''re here, they''re here. I''ll have someone bring them over." Old Wu nodded quickly, wiping the sweat off of his forehead.


    He instructed the middle-aged man who had spoken earlier to fetch the two.


    After hearing the instructions, the man looked at Fang Chen in fear and quickly left.


    Before long, Tu Qingqiu and the young princess of the Qinghu Empire were brought over. The two hadn''t been injured, but theirplexions weren''t very good.


    The moment the young princess of the Qinghu Empire saw the Qinghu ruler, she rushed up to her excitedly. "Mother!"


    Tu Qingqiu didn''t understand what was happening. <i>Did sister really marry this Centipede Demon</i>?


    "Did he torture you?" the Qinghu ruler asked in a low voice.


    "He didn''t torture us. But he did say very unpleasant things" the young princess of the Qinghu Empire said as she hugged the Qinghu Ruler.


    The young princess turned to look at Old Wu with anger in her eyes.


    ¡°E-Everyone is unharmed. Can this misunderstanding be resolved?¡± asked Old Wu tentatively.


    At this moment, he didn''t care about anything else and quickly tried to please Fang Chen and Fairy Yu.


    "Resolved? Weren''t you trying to marry me?" Fairy Yu smiled lightly. "You wanted to snatch me away from my husband with that little ability of yours?"


    Old Wu could only smile awkwardly, not knowing how to respond.


    At that moment, Tu Qingqiu and the young princess of the Qinghu Empire also noticed Fang Chen''s presence and a hint of shock appeared on both their faces.


    "<i>Stay quiet</i>," the Qinghu Empire¡¯s Ruler warned through voice transmission.


    Both of them subconsciously nodded, not daring to say more.


    The handsome young man slowly spoke up, "What Old Wu did today is indeed not very proper. If your anger has not yet subsided, why not..."


    Old Wu looked at him expectantly, wanting to hear how he would help him out of this situation.


    "Why not just kill him?" the handsome young man said in a deep voice.


    Hearing that, Old Wu became furious. Turning into a phantom of light, he rushed out of the banquet hall and cursed loudly, "You little bastard, I''ve been a diligent servant to your father for a hundred or two hundred years, and you treat me like this?!"

 Chapter 514, Friend, What Kind of Creature Are You?

    <h4>Chapter 514, Friend, What Kind of Creature Are You?</h4>


    The handsome young man looked quickly toward Fang Chen. "Daoist, we mustn''t let him escape. That person is very vindictive. If we let him live, he might cause trouble for both of you in the future."


    Fang Chen nodded, raised his hand, and released another sword strike.


    The sword light was lightning fast. Compared to it, Old Wu''s speed was like that of a snail. He had just rushed out of the banquet hall when he was cut down.


    Fairy Yu moved to his corpse and retrieved his storage ring.


    After that, she looked at everyone present and asked casually, "Does anyone know which direction to take from here to reach the Immortal Dynasty Holy Land?"


    Everyone was puzzled hearing that. "Immortal Dynasty Holy Land?"


    Upon seeing that, Fairy Yu turned her attention to the extravagantly-dressed young man, who was apanied by the Nascent Soul Realm cultivator behind him. She expected him to know more than the people here.


    Fairy Yu said, "Do you not know either?"


    "Immortal Dynasty Holy Land..." the handsome young man murmured. After a thoughtful pause, he admitted, "I''ve never heard of it before...."


    The eyes of the Qinghu Empire''s ruler flickered slightly. "Immortal Dynasty Holy Land...."


    Looking at Fairy Yu, she said, "Head south and you''ll reach your destination. However, the distance to the Immortal Dynasty Hold Land is quite far. If you don''t know where the teleportation formation is, it may take you hundreds of years before you make it there."


    Fairy Yu smiled knowingly. "Oh? So, you know where the teleportation formation is?"


    The Qinghu Empire''s ruler nodded gently. "I was also on my way to the Immortal Dynasty Holy Land to visit the Greenwood Sect. I can lead the way for you two."


    Fang Chen and Fairy Yu exchanged a look, both surprised. "She''s going to the Greenwood Sect too?"


    "What are you going there for?" Fairy Yu asked curiously.


    "My n has an ancestor who is cultivating in secret at the Greenwood Sect."


    "What a coincidence." Fang Chen smiled. "But are you sure you want to travel with us, considering the troubles we face?"


    The Qinghu Empire''s ruler chuckled self-deprecatingly. "Following you two might give us a chance to meet our n''s ancestor. If we go on our own, we would have less than a ten percent chance of reaching the Greenwood Sect."


    Her group had only recently arrived in the Central Continent Empire and already wound up in trouble, nearly losing their lives. It was better for them to stay close to Fang Chen and have some protection.


    The handsome young man had mentioned he troubles that Fang Chen and Fairy Yu were facing, so the Qinghu Empire''s ruler roughly knew how bad the situation was. However, the handsome young man had also said that as long as Fang Chen and Fairy Yu didn''t encounter any Nascent Soul Realm cultivators, they were unrivaled in the world. That was enough!


    There were risks in everything, and the Qinghu Empire¡¯s ruler believed that staying by Fang Chen''s side would lower her risks.


    Fairy Yu looked at Fang Chen. "Lord, what do you think?"


    Fang Chen replied, "If she really knows the way, it would be convenient to have her lead us."


    Fairy Yu nodded lightly.


    ***


    Several hourster, a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator arrived swiftly. He hurriedly entered the hall and handed two jade boxes to the handsome young man respectfully.


    The handsome young man opened the two boxes and saw the Swallow Ice Grass and the Purple Whisker Flower inside. Finally, after checking that everything was good, he presented them to Fang Chen as if offering a treasure.


    "Please take a look. Are these the spiritual materials you requested?"


    Fang Chen nced at them but couldn''t recognize these items, so he asked Mirror of the Universe for confirmation. Fortunately, this minor question didn''t cost any spirit stones.


    After receiving confirmation, Fang Chen put away the jade boxes and sped his fist in thanks to the handsome young man. "Thank you very much."


    The handsome young man was pleasantly surprised and hurriedly returned the gesture.


    "It''s gettingte. Please enjoy your meal and drinks. We will take our leave," Fang Chen said with a faint smile, leading Fairy Yu and the others out of the ce.


    The handsome youth hurriedly showed them out personally.


    The other cultivators in the hall didn''t dare to sit around, so they quickly got up to follow Fang Chen, showing him the way too.


    It was only after Fang Chen and the otherspletely disappeared that everyone let out a sigh of relief. Then, they fell into a silence thatsted for a quarter of an hour.


    Old Wu was dead. A cultivator who had reached the grandpletion stage of the Golden Core Realm had died so tragically on his wedding day. His newlywed wife had even run away with someone else. Life couldn''t be more tragic than that.


    Everyone silently mourned Old Wu for a few moments. After that, they began to consider how to divide Old Wu''s territory.


    Suddenly, Fang Chen, who was supposed to have left, appeared again. "Oh, right."


    Everyone was surprised to see him again.


    The handsome young man broke out in goosebumps. He thought that Fang Chen had changed his mind.


    "Daoist, what kind of demon are you?" Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    "I''m a chicken!" the handsome young man hurriedly replied.


    "Oh, so you''re a chicken demon," responded Fang Chen, looking at the young man''s colorful hair.


    With that out of the way, Fang Chen turned into a sword again and departed for real this time.


    The handsome young man waspletely on edge. He was so frightened he couldn''t bring himself to let out a sigh of relief until Fang Chen disappearedpletely from view.


    Letting out a sigh, he murmured, "There are Immortal Seedlings who are arrogant and look down on everyone. They don''t even put Nascent Soul cultivators in their eyes and would dare even to insult them. On the other hand, there are Immortal Seedlings who are polite and courteous. You only need to offer them a few spiritual materials, and they''ll bow to you with respect. That''s the difference between people."


    Everyone around looked at him strangely. <i>When did he have such an experience or encounter with Immortal Seedlings?</i>


    "Let me warn you all," the handsome man continued, "I assume some of you know the true origins of those two people, but if you want to mess with them, think carefully about where you stand."


    "Regardless of whether it''s the Heavenly King Zhen''s Manor or the Void Immortal Sword Sect, ourbined strength wouldn''t even touch a hair of theirs!" The handsome young man suddenly swept a cold gaze over everyone. "Your best bet is to pretend you haven''t seen anything. Don''t meddle in these muddy waters lest you end up like that centipede demon who died on his wedding day!"


    "You speak the truth, lord!"


    The cultivators quickly bowed and paid their respects. Even if they had some ideas in mind, they were dispelled after hearing what the handsome man said.


    ***


    Fang Chen found a secluded ce and asked Fairy Yu and the others to stand watch while he prepared to refine spiritual herbs. The spiritual medicine needed for the advancement of the Radiant Divine Eyes to the second stage was quite special, but it could be made without extraordinary means. As long as there were enough spiritual materials and the correct form was used, even an ordinary person could refine it.


    After consuming the spirit medicine, a cultivator could unlock the second stage of the Radiant Divine Eyes.


    Fang Chen had already tested the power of the first stage, and now he was very curious about the power of the second stage.


    Standing not too far away, the Qinghue Empire''s young princess observed Fang Chen and asked, "Mother, what is he doing?"


    The Qinghu Empire''s ruler shook her head slightly. "He''s probably refining pills."


    "But doesn''t refining pills require fire?" the young princess muttered in puzzlement. "We saw him diepletely with our own eyes that day. But, not only has hee back to life, but he can now kill Golden Core cultivators even more effortlessly than before. What''s going on...?"


    "Don''t think about it too much. Just know that his background is extraordinary. He saved us this time, and we owe him a favor. You should dismiss any schemes you have in mind. I know you were quite fond of Jue Wudi, and since Jue Wudi died at his hands, you might harbor some resentment toward him."


    The princess quickly replied, "Mother, don''t talk nonsense. Jue Wudi was a member of the Spirit Blood Sect. I know that now, so I don''t resent Fang Chen at all. He deserved to die. We were living peacefully in the Qinghu Empire, but it was because of the Spirit Blood Sect that we were forced to leave."


    "It''s good that you know," the Qinghu Empire''s ruler replied and nodded lightly, not saying anything more.


    However, the princess still couldn''t help but cast curious nces toward Fang Chen. It wasn''t until Fairy Yu looked at her that she casually retracted her gaze.


    Two hourster, the medicine was ready.


    Fairy Yu curiously approached and looked at the gray-green liquid that was still bubbling.


    Seeing how awful it looked, she frowned. "Lord, are you really going to drink this? There are eyeballs inside...."

 Chapter 515: The Second Stage of Radiant Divine Eyes

    <h4>Chapter 515: The Second Stage of Radiant Divine Eyes</h4>


    The bowl of medicine did indeed look a bit nauseating, but it was the key to unlocking the second stage of the Radiant Divine Eyes.


    Fang Chen took a deep breath and drank it all in front of Fairy Yu. Fairy Yu couldn''t bring herself to watch and turned her head away.


    A few momentster, Fairy Yu carefully peered at Fang Chen.


    After downing the medicine, Fang Chen suddenly felt that his left eye had be unbearably itchy, and waves of difort surged through him. He really wanted to reach up and scratch the itch off.


    "You seem to be in a lot of difort," Fairy Yu said anxiously.


    Seeing what was happening, the Qinghu Empire''s ruler and the other two approached cautiously. When they got close, they saw that, although Fang Chen''s left eye was tightly closed, there was a faint, odd blue light emitting from within it.


    The Qinghu Empire''s ruler noticed something andmented in surprise, "He seems to be practicing some kind of eye technique. Maybe he''s using the medicine he drank just now to assist in his cultivation?"


    The Qinghu n also had a heritage of eye techniques, but their lineage''s inheritance had long been lost. ording to ancient records, if a cultivator could sessfully cultivate with an eye technique, it meant that they had boundless potential. They could even reach the Middle Three Realms.


    The Qinghu n''s lineage had declined because they had lost their n-exclusive eye techniques. Otherwise, the n wouldn''t have been reduced to such a state, with only a few members remaining. This was a testament to how highly regarded eye techniques were in the cultivation world.


    An hour quickly passed, and Fang Chen was drenched in sweat by now. During this hour, Fang Chen had envisioned himself digging his eye out countless times. The itch was intolerable. It wasn''t merely limited to his eye; it spread through his entire body. It was as if thousands of ants were crawling on his skin and gnawing their way through his eye and into his body.


    Seeing Fang Chen drenched in sweat and how pained he was, Fairy Yu could only continuously wipe his sweat off him with her sleeve.


    The Qinghu Empire¡¯s princess helped by fanning with her sleeve. She hoped that keeping Fang Chen cooler would alleviate his suffering a little.


    "Little Mirror, how long will I have to endure this?" asked Fang Chen through clenched teeth, his voice trembling.


    "Brother, hang in there. It isn''t simple to cultivate eye techniques. You are cultivating the Radiant Divine Eyes, so this point is especially evident. Not to mention that it requires external intervention. As long as you endure and persist through this, the Twilight Eye will bepletely under your control!"


    "How long will it take?"


    To Fang Chen, every moment was excruciatingly painful, and each minute felt like forever to him. He never felt such agony before even when he had experienced twelve years as a wandering lost soul.


    "If it were an ordinary cultivator, it might take several years or months, depending on their talent and the strength of their spiritual soul. However, your spiritual soul is exceptional, which can greatly shorten the integration time. It can bepleted within a few hours."


    <i>A few hours?!</i>


    Fang Chen didn''t know whether he should feel he was fortunate or not. At least, he could push through a few hours with enough determination. If it were several years, he doubted he could endure this trial.


    Finally, after a few hours of a horribly painful itch, Fang Chen felt a cool sensation arise in his left eye. This cool feeling quickly spread throughout his body, and the painful itching vanished instantly! At the same time, he suddenly felt the surrounding airflow bing very distinct, not just regr wind but the elemental forces of the world¡ªthe Five Elements!


    Fang Chen opened his eyes. They had a strange blue color as he saw the scene before him. The world had be colorful. It was filled with the elemental energy of the Five Elements. Fang Chen felt as though he could use these forces with just a thought.


    To validate that feeling, Fang Chen waved his hand lightly, and suddenly, tens of thousands of flying swords condensed in the sky. They shrouded the sky and blocked the sunlight. Only a few rays of light squeezed through the gaps between the swords.


    Even Fairy Yu was astonished when she saw that scene.


    The Qinghu Empire¡¯s young princess sucked in a breath of cold air. Each of these flying swords brought a chilling sense of threat, as if any one of them could effortlessly kill her. There was a countless number of these swords; this amount of swords could form a sword formation that could stretch out for miles!


    Fang Chen said, "My affinity with the elements has increased. I can now control the elemental forces more delicately and precisely. At the same time, the amount of elemental forces I can gather is hundreds of times stronger than before...."


    A faint smile appeared in Fang Chen''s eyes, and he gradually gained some enlightenment. Ordinary cultivators used to believe that the more elemental forces they could manipte, the stronger they were. And that wasn''t entirely wrong.


    However, the essence of controlling the elementsy in the details. The more details and nuances a cultivator controlled, the more varied the elemental forces became. The more variations they had, the more of an advantage they''d have over their enemies.


    For example, Fang Chen could now effortlessly split his thoughts into tens of thousands, forming a sword formation of the same number. This level of control would be challenging even for a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator. At that point, the seemingly simple Five Elements Technique could unleash terrifying power.


    This was a clear indication that immortal techniques indeed had different levels. If a cultivator''s strength was high enough, even simple immortal techniques could produce extraordinary effects.


    A few momentster, Fang Chen felt a drastic depletion of spiritual energy, and his thoughts scattered instantly. The vast sword array in the sky quietly disappeared, as if the scene had never existed.


    "If Ibine it with the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture and infuse it with sword intent within the sword formation..." Fang Chen pondered quietly.


    It seemed that he had obtained a new method to battle many enemies at once. Considering his current affinity and control over the Five Elements, the strength of the metal element energy in the sword array was in no way inferior to a top-grade, yellow-rank spiritual treasure that had seventy-two Soul Imprints. It even hinted at reaching the level of a peak-grade, yellow-rank peak treasure. In many future situations, he might not even need to use Little Sword.


    Suddenly, Fang Chen''s eyes lit up. "Huh, what are these spiritual energies...."


    He discovered that there seemed to be several types of energies that existed in the world besides the Five Elements. Fang Chen even found one of them to be familiar, bearing a resemnce to the Purple Lightning Talisman.


    Realizing what this was, Fang Chen was caught by surprise. "It''s the lightning element!"


    There were a few other types of energies besides the lightning element, but Fang Chen couldn''t put his finger on what their attributes were. However, they should be other types of rare spiritual energies that existed in the world.


    "I''ve heard that some techniques can manipte lightning element energy without the need for talismans. Now that I can see it, I wonder if I can control it..." mused Fang Chen.


    With this thought in mind, Fang Chen attempted to control the lightning element energy, but no matter how hard he tried, he could only stare at it nkly, unable to control it one bit.


    Clearly, hecked the required techniques to control it. It was like the gap between two great rivers. Without a bridge, the gap couldn''t be crossed. Fang Chen could easily control the Five Elements but couldn''t control any forces beyond them.


    Fairy Yu checked on him cautiously. "Are you feeling better now, my lord?"


    "Much better." Fang Chen nodded with a smile. "We''ve wasted some time. Let''s continue on our journey."


    Fairy Yu breathed a sigh of relief.


    On the other hand, the young princess''s eyes flickered with emotion. She couldn''t forget the scene she just witnessed.


    The young princess hadn''t expected Fang Chen to grow so much stronger. She recalled that time in the Great Qian Imperial Capital when he had shed through all obstacles back.


    "Back then, he could wound a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator, and now..." muttered the young princess.


    In the end, she didn''t dare to dwell on it any longer. However, she now looked at Fang Chen with a gaze filled with awe and curiosity.

 Chapter 516: Holding Back Big Moves?

    <h4>Chapter 516: Holding Back Big Moves?</h4>


    For the next six months, Fang Chen and his group didn''t encounter any attacks from Golden Core Realm cultivators. It seemed that after the fall of those three Immortal Seedlings, Heavenly King Zhen¡¯s Manor had given up on pursuing Fairy Yu. However, Fang Chen didn''t dare to let his guard down. How could such a force give up on revenge just because a few Immortal Seedlings had perished.


    Wouldn''t their reputation be tarnished if they let them be just like that?


    What this period of silence might suggest was that the enemy was preparing to make a big, decisive attack.


    Apart from that, he had to keep his eyes open against any retaliation from the Immortal Giant Sect, Innate Dao Sect, and Great Expansion Dao Gate. Each of these major sects had lost an Immortal Seedling, and their losses were much greater than Heavenly King Zhen Manor''s, considering that Gai Wu hadn''t been an Immortal Seedling.


    "Lord Fang, we''ll reach the teleportation formation in half a day. By using it, we can enter the territory of the Immortal Dynasty Holy Land," Qinghu''s ruler said as she surveyed the surroundings with a hint of joy on her face.


    As long as they passed through that teleportation formation, they would soon reach their destination.


    "I remember you said that a major sect controls this teleportation formation?" said Fang Chen.


    The Qinghu ruler nodded slightly.


    Fairy Yu hesitated. "Lord Fang, why don''t we take a different route?"


    Fang Chen smiled, "It''s alright, we might as well take a look. If there were any Nascent Soul Realm cultivators who dared to attack us, they would have done so long ago. Why wait until today?"


    "That''s true," muttered Fairy Yu, feeling puzzled.


    Half a dayter, they arrived at a massive city, simr in scale to the former Azure Cloud Empire. The only difference was the cultivators in this area.


    Qi Refining Realm cultivators were everywhere, and there were quite a few Foundation Building and Golden Core cultivators as well. asionally, one would even catch a glimpse of Nascent Soul Realm cultivators. Mortals still made up the majority of the poption. However, unlike other ces, the mortals here didn¡¯t find cultivators exactly mysterious.


    As soon as Fang Chen andpany entered the city, they felt many Golden Core Realm cultivators secretly sweep them with their eyes. The Qinghu Empire¡¯s ruler and the others were a bit nervous, but Fang Chen and Fairy Yu remained calm, not paying much attention to these prying eyes.


    Nearby, a Golden Core Realm cultivator with a sped fist respectfully reported to a young man in a purple robe, "Sir, that is indeed Fairy Yu and that sword cultivator of unknown origin. The Void Immortal Sword Sect has denied that this sword cultivator is their disciple."


    The purple-robed youth''s gaze shifted back and forth between Fang Chen and Fairy Yu. Furrowing his brow, he murmured to himself, "I can''t see through this person''s cultivation. He should be hiding an aura-concealing treasure."


    After pausing for a moment, he took out a bronze mirror and aimed it at Fang Chen. However, the mirror didn''t reveal anything.


    To the purple-robed youth, thisck of reaction indicated that Fang Chen was not registered with any major sect in the Central Continent Empire.


    There was another Golden Core Realm with them whose eyes were dark and sinister. He interjected, "Sir, this is a rare opportunity. Why don''t we try to keep them here?


    The purple-robed youth nced at him and said calmly, "I can''t make a move on them because of the restriction against Nascent Soul cultivators making a move. As for you, can you defeat Immortal Seedlings? They''ve already killed three Immortal Seedlings. Going up against them is inviting your own death."


    The Golden Core Realm cultivator felt a bit embarrassed. Although they were at the grandpletion stage of the Golden Core realm, they were well aware that they were far from being able to match Immortal Seedlings.


    The purple-robed youth smiled faintly and said, ¡°This matter is no longer just between our manor and the Void Immortal Sword Sect. The Immortal Giant Sect, Innate Dao Sect, and Great Expansion Dao Gate have all entered this quagmire.


    ¡°I received news a few days ago that the crown prince has returned from the Giant Antler Empire and is heading toward the Immortal Dynasty Holy Land. Second Miss has also left the Celestial Dome and is rushing there as well. They are also Immortal Seedlings. With these two intervening, everyone will have to give some face. By then, Immortal Seedlings from many sects will be gathered there. We just need them to fall into the trap.¡±


    The Golden Core Realm cultivators took sharp breaths. They were just the lowest-level celestial soldiers of the manor, so naturally, they didn''t have ess to such news. The thought of Gai Hong and Gai Yunuoing forward made their emotions surge, and they couldn''t wait to rush to the Immortal Dynasty Holy Land.


    "Are you sure they are heading to the Immortal Dynasty Holy Land? Are they going to seek help from the Ning Family? I heard only Ning Tieniu survived from the four Immortal Seedlings that had fought with them."


    "They are mostly likely headed to the Greenwood Sect for the Vast Origin Fruit." the purple-robed youth said with a slight smile. "As long as Demoness Yu consumes this fruit, she can hide from karma, and the manor would have a hard time finding her. It would be akin to searching for a needle in the ocean."


    The Golden Core Realm cultivators were enlightened. "I see, then we must not let them have their way."


    The purple-robed youth smiled faintly. "Not to mention whether they can reach the Greenwood Sect, even if they do, how precious is the Vast Origin Fruit? Even if the Greenwood Sect doesn''t care about offending the manor, they wouldn''t simply hand over the Vast Origin Fruit to an outsider."


    ¡°They won''t be achieving what they are setting on this trip for. If anything, a few more lonely tombstones would pop up in the Immortal Dynasty Holy Land."


    Fang Chen listened quietly in soul form.


    It seemed that the eldest son and second daughter of the Heavenly King Zhen were going to step forward for Gai Wu. The former was in the Fusion Realm, while thetter was in the Soul Splitting Realm. They were both in the Middle Three Realms.


    However, it didn''t matter how high their cultivations were; they couldn''t take action personally. The problemy in theirwork of rtionships. If these two were once Immortal Seedlings who sessfully treaded the Ancient Immortal Road, then they would undoubtedly have many matured Immortal Seedlings in their circle of friends.


    If these people intervened, with their prestige, it wouldn''t be difficult to call over a number of fresh Immortal Seedlings. If there were only seven or eight people, it wouldn''t be much of a problem for Fang Chen


    However, if there were dozens of them and they were armed with treasures and formations¡ªnot to mention that Heavenly King Zhen''s celestial soldiers would be lending them a hand as well¡ªthey would pose a threat that couldn''t be underestimated. Fortunately, he became aware of this beforehand and could prepare ordingly.


    At the same time, he confirmed the effect of the Vast Origin Fruit too. It would be immensely helpful to Fairy Yu, so that was good news.


    Before long, they arrived at the central area of the city, where a majestic teleportation formation caught their eyes. Around it were stationed a number of cultivators.


    It went without saying that an owned teleportation formation this substantial would have a fee tied to it.


    The Qinghu Ruler took the initiative to inquire and then returned to report, "Lord Fang, the fee is three hundred spirit stones per person. In addition, activating the teleportation formation requires five thousand spirit stones. If we split the cost, each person needs to contribute one thousand three hundred."


    "Do you have enough spirit stones?" Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    By now, Fang Chen¡¯s wealth had reached a staggering 530,000 spirit stones. All of which were from those Golden Core Realm cultivators, especially those three Immortal Seedlings.


    The Qinghu ruler nodded lightly. "I do."


    Although she was only at the grandpletion stage of Foundation Building Realm, she had once been the ruler of an empire, presiding over a vast territory. of the Qinghu Empire, controlling a vast territory. She had stashed quite a few low-grade spirit stones, so she could afford to pay the travel fee.


    Just as everyone was about to fish out their part of the fee, they saw a purple-robed youth leading a group of Golden Core Realm cultivators approaching slowly. One of the elders watching over the teleportation formation brightened up and hurried over from the other side, bowing to the purple-robed youth with a smile. "Lord Zhao, why do you have the leisure to personally lead a group for patrol today?"


    The purple-robed youth smiled faintly and pointed at Fang Chen and Fairy Yu. "Elder Gu, you wouldn''t fail to recognize these two, would you?"


    Curious, the elder turned to the two. After a moment, he smiled at the purple-robed youth and replied, "Of course I recognize them. However, the Point Star Gate has always maintained neutrality and avoids causing harm easily. If it''s business thates to our door, we have no reason to refuse."


    Obviously, the elder had long noticed the identities of Fang Chen and Fairy Yu. He only showed up when the purple-robed youth appeared, and now, his words carried a hint of warning, clearly warning the purple-robed youth.

 Chapter 517: Northern Dipper, Celestial Heaven

    <h4>Chapter 517: Northern Dipper, Celestial Heaven</h4>


    The purple-robed youth chuckled lightly, not taking Elder Gu''s hint seriously. He smiled. "I am at the Nascent Soul Realm and won''t make a move against them. My subordinates are also inferior in skill and have no intention of acting. Elder Gu, you needn''t worry. We won''t harm the business of your Point Star Gate."


    Elder Gu nodded slightly at his words, as long as the business of the Point Star Gate wasn''t disrupted, it was eptable.


    The purple-robed youth nced at Fairy Yu and then shifted his gaze to Fang Chen, smiling faintly. "Junior, where do you hail from?"


    The Qinghu Ruler and the others felt an extremely terrifying pressure emanating from the purple-robed youth, as if they were ants looking up at a towering mountain. This aura was clearly not at the Golden Core Realm; the person in front of them was very likely a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator!


    Fang Chen smiled faintly. "Are you from Heavenly King Zhen Manor?"


    The purple-robed youth nodded lightly.


    "In that case, we have nothing more to say,¡± said Fang Chen, paying the teleportation fee and leading everyone into the formation.


    The purple-robed youth was slightly taken aback, seemingly not expecting Fang Chen to be so calm in facing him. Was he confident that the youth wouldn''t make a move?


    The teleportation formation began to sh white light, and then the aura of Fang Chen and the others disappearedpletely.


    "Lord Zhao, in my opinion, it''s best not to get too deeply involved in this matter," Elder Gu said, his words rife with meaning. "Demoness Yu has condensed the Inverse Immortal Demonic Embryo and doesn¡¯t have many years left to live. Moreover, she doesn''t have the strength to kill Nascent Soul Realm cultivators. This meant that the person beside her must also have a significant background."


    ¡°Getting too deeply involved and umting too much karma may be harmful for your cultivation."


    "Elder Gu, we follow the Heavenly King Zhen Manor. We are not afraid of karmic entanglement. If possible, I wish to be as carefree as you and not bother with these trivial matters, Elder Gu. But unfortunately, in the world of cultivation, some things are hard to have a say in.¡±


    The purple-robed youth chuckled lightly before leading his group into the teleportation formation. After they were sent away by the teleportation formation, an old man slowly walked up to Elder Gu. "Brother Gu, thank you."


    "No need to be polite. Given our past friendship, this small favor is nothing. Besides, even if I didn''t intervene, Lord Zhao wouldn''t dare to make a move. But may I ask about the background of that young man? How is it possible for him to y Immortal Seedlings?"


    Elder Gu showed a curious expression.


    The old man smiled lightly, shook his head, and then walked into the teleportation formation.


    "Even the Madman Fang from back then has shown up. I''m afraid many people will have trouble sleeping peacefully," Elder Gu muttered softly.


    Then, he sighed lightly. "Ah, I¡¯m getting old. If only I were a few hundred years younger, I might join in on this excitement."


    With that, he turned and walked away, his figure somewhat lonely.


    ***


    Immortal Dynasty Holy Land didn''t refer to just any ce; it was because a true immortal had appeared here in the past. That true immortal had taught and guided disciples there for over a thousand years before ascending to the Immortal Realm. Countless cultivators had made breakthroughs under his guidance during those thousand years. Because of that, people inter generations called that ce the Immortal Dynasty Holy Land.


    In this region of the Immortal Dynasty Holy Land, there were numerous major cultivation sects and cultivation families. Among them, the Ning Family was the most famous, with a cultivator at the Tribtion Realm overseeing it.


    As for the sects, the Greenwood Sect was the most famous. Not only were there Tribtion Realm cultivators presiding over it, but they also cultivated various spirit trees and fruits, supplying many rare spirit herbs to the various sects of the Central Continent Empire.


    "Little Mirror, how many sects in the Central Continent have Ascension Realm cultivators presiding over it?


    Perhaps this information didn¡¯t have anything to do with karma and was not a secret, so Mirror of the Universe replied straightforwardly, "There are a total of twenty-two forces with Ascension Realm cultivators presiding in the Central Continent."


    <i>Twenty-two? </i>


    Fang Chen was slightly surprised. Supreme Immortal Pudu had mentioned that there were only a hundred Emperor''s Ranking experts, each of whom was at least at the Ascension Realm. The most elite among them were First Rate Sect Leaders and Loose Immortals.


    <i>How could there be only twenty-two forces with Ascension Realm cultivators in the Central Continent?</i>


    Fang Chen expressed his doubts.


    Mirror of the Universe was a little astonished. "Brother, don''t you know that besides the Central Continent, there are two other first-tier empires in this realm? Although the Central Continent has the longest history and had the most true immortals in ancient times, it¡¯s in steep decline nowadays and the number of experts is far fewer than that of the other two first-tier empires.


    ¡°Even the number of First Rate Sect Leaders on the emperor ranking is far fewer than the other two."


    It was also from then that Fang Chen learned about Northern Dipper and Celestial Heaven. These were two other first-rank empires, separated from the Central Continent by the Immortal Demonic Sea.


    Rankings such as the Heavenly Spiritual Herb Ranking, Emperor Ranking, and Spiritual Treasure Ranking were made up of people from the three first-tier empires. There were more than a hundred Ascension Realm cultivators, but only the strongest made it onto the rankings. There were many rtively unknown Ascension Realm cultivators not on the ranking.


    ¡°Lord Fang, the Immortal Dynasty Holy Land is ahead. Once we arrive there, it''s only a few days'' journey to the Greenwood Sect,¡± the Qinghu ruler said, pointing to the faintly visible mountains not far away.


    The mountains stretched endlessly, with countless buildings and caves in sight.


    "We¡¯re almost there?"


    Fairy Yu nced at the Qinghue ruler and nodded slightly. It seemed like the route they had taken was a shorter one, shortening the time a lot.


    Fairy Yu transmitted her voice, "<i>My lord, the Immortal Dynasty Holy Land is the official residence of the Central Continent, and it has always been presided over by cultivators in the Upper Three Realms.</i>


    ¡°<i>We don''t know the rtionship between them and Heavenly King Zhen Manor, but they should be on good terms. Official residences usually have formations prohibiting various escape methods, so the Shadow Buddha Technique may not work here.</i>"


    Fang Chen was slightly surprised. If he couldn''t use the Shadow Buddha techniques, he¡¯d find it challenging to do many things. This could prove to be troublesome. He had nned to use this technique to rush into the Greenwood Sect without hesitation.


    Fang Chen asked, "Qinghu Ruler, if we take a detour, how much longer will the journey be?"


    The Qinghu ruler was surprised. "A detour?"


    After pondering for a few moments, she tentatively replied, "It may add several years to the journey. I haven''t been to this ce myself, so I can''t be sure of the details."


    Fang Chen''s brows furrowed slightly. <i>Several years? That¡¯s too long.</i>


    "<i>Lord, how about we don''t go to the Greenwood Sect?</i>" Fairy Yu said through voice transmission.


    ¡°<i>No, without the Vast Origin Fruit, trouble will keeping to our door." Fang Chen''s gaze hardened as he looked toward the direction of the Immortal Dynasty Holy Land. "Let''s go. Even if someone is waiting for us, if they want to block our path, they''ll have to pay a price.</i>"


    Fairy Yu hesitated, wanting to persuade him against this. However, she ultimately didn''t voice her thoughts. She didn''t dare to say it, nor did she want to. As she said, once they entered the territory, whether it was cloud riding, rainbow transformation, sword control, or even sword transformation techniques, they all failed without exception.


    It seemed that, except for specific cultivators, everyone lost the ability to fly freely in this ce.


    Fang Chen attempted to use the Shadow Buddha techniques but found that an unknown force was interfering and obstructing him from blending into the shadows.


    He tried to use his divine soul to explore the peculiarities of the formations here and to observe Gai Hong and others'' arrangements. However, he discovered that even his divine soul couldn''t leave his body in this ce, something he had never encountered before.


    Suddenly, the Qinghu ruler¡¯s expression turned into one of shock. She pointed in a certain direction and said, "Fang Chen... look over there....¡±


    Fang Chen and Fairy Yu looked up and saw a giant bronze mirror hanging on a high wall, reflecting their current appearance. Nearby, many cultivators had already noticed them and started whispering to each other curiously.

 Chapter 518: Exposed by the Heaven Profound Mirror

    Chapter 518: Exposed by the Heaven Profound Mirror


    Fang Chen furrowed his brows slightly. "So this is Heavenly King Zhen Manor¡­."


    After all that effort, every move they made was being monitored constantly?


    Fairy Yu was grim. "Lord, this is the Heaven Profound Mirror that is simr to the Starlight Transmission Talisman. Many cultivators in the Central Continent Empire would buy one. Normally, one can browse through some news regarding the rankings and also some important information that sects would post asionally on it."


    She continued, "I don''t know how the Heavenly King Zhen Manor put us on there. No wonder I''ve been sought after no matter where I go these years. They are indeed wealthy."


    Fang Chen was surprised. "Wealthy?"


    Fairy Yu borated, "Simply using the Heaven Profound Mirror only requires low-grade spirit stones, but if you want to post messages on it, you need to consume medium-grade spirit stones. If you want the message to spread to a wider audience, you might need to use the legendary high-grade spirit stones.


    "Now that they have publicly disyed our whereabouts in the Heaven Profound Mirror, its means they are consuming medium-grade spirit stones almost every second."


    Fairy Yu looked angry. It wasn''t the exposure of their identities that bothered her, but the fact that they were constantly being watched without her knowledge. Even the scene of her sleeping might have been seen.


    "So you mean, they also saw the scene when I was practicing the Radiant Divine Eyes?""No, if they were monitoring us every moment, there wouldn''t be batches of Golden Core Realm cultivatorsing to us one after another."


    Fang Chen''s thoughts moved, then he said to Fairy Yu, "Step back a bit and try."


    Hearing that, Fairy Yu took two steps back.


    And indeed, the image in the bronze mirror changed as she moved.


    The image was from Fairy Yu''s point of view. However, it wasn''t entirely without blind spots. At least, it couldn¡¯t see the scene above Fairy Yu''s head. At most, the people watching might have seen him drink the spirit medicine, but they couldn''t have seen the sky full of sword formations. Even the scene of him ying the three Immortal Seedlings shouldn''t have been seen by them. They could at most guess what happened.


    "Mom, there are people in the mirror!" a child eximed in amazement, pointing at Fang Chen and the others.


    His mother, upon hearing this, quickly covered the child''s mouth. "I told you not to point fingers at people randomly!"


    ncing at Fang Chen and the others with fear in her eyes, she led the child to hide behind the crowd. Many nearby cultivators were observing the Heaven Profound Mirror and looking toward Fang Chen and the others. However, they were mostly focused on Fang Chen.


    Suddenly, a curious Golden Core Realm cultivator called out to Fang Chen. "Daoist, do you really believe the Spirit Blood Sect has framed Fairy Yu in order to provoke a conflict with the third young master of the Heavenly King Zhen Manor?"


    Fang Chen sighed inwardly. It seemed that the Heaven Profound Mirror had broadcasted some of his conversations with Fairy Yu. Speaking of which, this was a good thing. At least the Void Immortal Sword Sect and Heavenly King Zhen Manor would thoroughly investigate that matter.


    Fang Chen thought for a moment and replied casually, "Do I even need to say it? Apart from the Spirit Blood Sect Cultivators, who else would use such despicable means behind the scenes? However, they''ve picked the right person indeed. If it weren''t for Gai Wu being a despicable person, both the Void Immortal Sword Sect and the Heavenly King Zhen Manor wouldn''t have been manipted like puppets."


    The crowd gasped in shock, falling into silence. Even the cultivator who had just raised some questions felt embarrassed after Fang Chen said that. Fang Chen openly calling Gai Wu despicable had thoroughly offended Heavenly King Zhen Manor.


    In the distance, on an open-air pavilion, a group of young men and women stood quietly. Leading them were a young man and woman, their appearances somewhat simr, and their auras unfathomable.


    When they heard Fang Chen mention Gai Wu and describe him as despicable, the two of them exchanged a knowing smile on the pavilion.


    The young man chuckled softly and said, "It seems our third brother''s reputation has beenpletely tarnished."


    The young woman smiled. "It''s his own fault for being so ipetent, tarnishing the reputation of the manor along with him."


    "Since you two seem to dislike Gai Wu so much, why did you summon us here?" someone asked with a faint smile. "Instead of wasting time like this, why not focus on cultivation? These petty quarrels between the younger generation are quite boring."


    One them people in the group interjected, "That demoness from the Void Immortal Sword Sect is not worth mentioning. Even if we ignore her, she won''t live for long anyway; the Inverse Immortal Demonic Embryo will take her life first. However, the person beside her killed the Immortal Seedling of my Immortal Giant Sect. This debt will surely be settled."


    The speaker was like a small mountain and stood out within the group.


    He red at Fang Chen grimly, his eyes shing with killing intent. Then he turned to Gai Hong and said, "Daoist Gai, the agreement between the Void Immortal Sword Sect and Heavenly King Zhen Manor only applies to that demoness. Why hasn''t your manor sent a few Nascent Soul Realm cultivators to kill this person?"


    "How do you know... that we haven''t sent any Nascent Soul Realm cultivators?" Gai Hong suddenly countered, causing everyone to be slightly surprised.


    Gai Yunnuo chuckled lightly. "My third brother''s mother was very anxious to avenge him, so without permission, she sent three Soul Splitting Realm, nine Enlightenment Realm and twenty Nascent Soul Realm cultivators to kill him. Can you guess what happened?"


    "They didn''t all die, did they?"


    Since Fang Chen and the others were standing there unharmed, it seemed that the forces the mother had sent had already perished.


    "Yes, they all died." Gai Yunnuo smiled. "Because of this, that woman was also punished. After all, because of her selfish desires, she caused the deaths of many experts from the manor."


    The cultivator from the Immortal Giant Sect frowned slightly. "It seems this person also has powerful backers behind him. But... can your manor endure this?"


    "With my father''s temperament, naturally not," Gai Hong said lightly. "But the manor has received a message from a certaindy, suggesting that this battle should not involve Nascent Soul Realm cultivators. Besides, we have recently discovered some traces of the Spirit Blood Sect."


    ¡°My father doesn''t really care about it. After all, my third brother hasn''t really died. Speaking of losses, it''s actually the Void Immortal Sword Sect that suffered. However, we must still regain some face, so he asked me and Yunnuo toe back together. If they can leave the Immortal Dynasty Holy Land today, my manor won''t trouble them anymore, and this matter will be considered settled.¡±


    ¡°What if they can''t leave?¡±


    ¡°Naturally, they will die here.¡±


    Gai Hong wore an expression of indifference, as if Fang Chen¡¯s life or death didn''t matter to him. This was clearly a trivial matter to him.


    The representative from the Immortal Giant Sect snorted. "The Immortal Candidates of the Immortal Giant Sect cannot die in vain."


    After that, he scanned the area and frowned. "There''s no movement from the Innate Dao Sect and the Great Expansion Dao Gate? They''ve lost an Immortal Seedling each."


    Gai Hong chuckled lightly. "These Dao sects act behind the scenes. They must be scheming in secret. We don''t need to pay attention to them. Should we let them prepare and then take action?"


    The others nodded slightly and ignited their transmission tokens one after the other.


    At the same time, young men and women appeared in various locations of the Immortal Dynasty Holy Land were all heading toward the same direction.

 Chapter 519: Unprecedented Scene

    <h4>Chapter 519: Unprecedented Scene</h4>


    "Lord, something doesn''t seem right," remarked Fairy Yu, her eyes scanning the surroundings.


    She noticed that the cultivators in the vicinity were receding like a tide, as if they were making way.


    The people who had made way didn''t stray far. Some stood by the roadside, while others entered the tea houses and taverns that lined the street, leaning on the railings to observe.


    The purple-robed young man, who had been following the group, now appeared with his entourage in a grand thirty-three-story cloud pavilion adorned with exquisite carvings. Many Nascent Soul and Golden Core Realm cultivators greeted him with smiles as they chatted. From their conversation, it was clear that these people were all directly under themand of the Heavenly King Zhen.


    Zhao Kaihe, the young man in purple robes, smiled. He sped his fist and asked, "Where are the crown prince and the Second Miss?"


    A Nascent Soul Realm colleague pointed to a taller cloud pavilion nearby and chuckled. "They''re all over there, along with the previous generation of elite disciples from various sects. Elder Chen is close and is overseeing them. We don''t have the qualifications to approach, so we can only watch the spectacle from here."


    Zhao Kaihe was caught by surprise. "Elder Chen is also here?"


    Puzzled, he continued, "I heard that Elder Chen is about to undergo tribtion. Isn''t it risky to be outside at such a time? If he encounters tribtion here, the entire Immortal Dynasty Holy Land will be affected."


    "Don''t worry about that. He knows his situation better than any of us. It''s not yet time for his tribtion," replied a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator with a faint smile.


    Pausing for a moment, the Nascent Soul Realm cultivator continued mysteriously, "Zhao Kaihe, do you know how many factions are present today?"


    Zhao Kaihe''s eyes lit up. "How many?"


    The Nascent Soul Realm cultivator put up both of his hands. "This many."


    Zhao Kaihe was surprised to learn that over twenty sects or families were paying attention to this matter. Back when Heavenly King Zhen Manor issued a wanted notice for Demoness Yu, these factions showed little interest and didn''t intervene at all.


    "At that only includes the major sects and the families at the Immortal Manor level. There are many others whose numbers I''m not aware of," said the Nascent Soul Realm cultivator. "Anyway, today''s events are neither big nor small; they are among the top ten in the past century in the Central Continent Empire."


    Zhao Kaihe smiled slightly, looking pleased as he nced at Fang Chen''s group. "It''s quite lively indeed.


    With Tribtion Realm cultivators presiding, they could be considered as the protectors of the Immortal Manor. Above them were the Immortal Courts, whom Ascension Realm cultivators presided over. Ascension Realm cultivators were akin to Immortal Kings, and over the millennia, they had earned the title of Immortal King alongside Loose Immortals.


    Loose Immortals were known as First Rate Sect Leaders.


    Ascension Realm cultivators were known as Immortal Kings.


    Tribtion Realm experts were known as Profound Immortals.


    There were only about a hundred Profound Immortals in the Central Continent Empire, with half of them not having appeared in the world for thousands of years, their status unknown. Immortal Kings were even rarer.


    As for First Rate Sect Leaders, they could be counted on one hand.


    Countless eyes were quietly sizing up Fang Chen''s group. Some of these gazes belonged to the people from Immortal Courts, while others came from the Immortal Manors. Among them, two elders surpassed the rest in cultivation. They stood shoulder to shoulder on a high tform and were casually chatting.


    ¡°Daoist Chen, the oldest lord in your faction is on the verge of reaching the Dao Union Realm. If I remember correctly, he''s only around 106 years old, right? Hehe, to be able to reach the Dao Union Realm before 200, he might have a chance to inherit Heavenly King Zhen¡¯s inheritance in the future.¡±


    ¡°The lord has not passed the third cmity, so we can''t say he''s about to reach the Dao Union Realm. And after the Dao Union Realm, there are still nine tribtions. Each tribtion is like having one foot on the road to the Yellow Springs. It''s not easy to inherit the Heavenly King Zhen¡¯s inheritance.¡±


    ¡°That''s true... Oh, Daoist Chen, you should be preparing for your Tribtion soon, right? If you pass all nine tribtions, the Central Continent Empire will have another Profound Immortal. Let me congratte you in advance.¡±


    ¡°That''s a long long way off. Let''s put this matter to the side for now. By the way, do you know about this boy''s origins when he stayed at the Deste Academy?¡±


    ¡°Even though the Deste Academy knows many secrets, I have no idea about his origins either. The sword aura treasure on him is imprable even for you and me, so his background can''t be simple. I suspect he may be a new disciple of some Profound Immortal.¡±


    ¡°Profound Immortal....¡±


    The two elders fell silent, and at that moment, many figures had already appeared around Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen slowly said, ¡°Qinghu''s Ruler, please go on your own way from here.¡±


    ¡°Lord Fang, we''ll meet at the Greenwood Sect,¡± replied the Qinghu Empire''s ruler, nodding softly.


    She then left with Tu Qingqiu and the young princess.


    She understood that troubles had found their way to Fang Chen and hispanion. This was a conflict out of their league. They couldn''t be of any help.


    After a few moments, a figure approached from the street, stopping about a hundred feet away from Fang Chen and the others.


    That person was dressed in coarse clothes and wore sandals. Their hair was disheveled and cascaded over their shoulders.


    A few people in the vicinity recognized this person, and their faces quickly became filled with surprise.


    "That''s Meng Tianshu, an Immortal Seedling from the Seven Profounds Sect."


    The crowd''s expressions brightened.


    The Seven Profounds Sect was not famous in the Central Continent by any means. They weren''t even considered an Immortal Manor and only had one Dao Union Realm cultivator.


    However, five years ago, a dark horse emerged from the Seven Profounds Sect. A grandpletion stage Golden Core Realm cultivator who had swiftlypleted the Ancient Immortal Road, earning the title of Immortal Candidate.


    It was rumored that the Ancient Immortal Road had even rewarded him with an Immortal Technique!


    "Greetings, Fellow Cultivator. I am Meng Tianshu, from the Seven Profounds Sect," Meng Tianshu called out to Fang Chen respectfully.


    Fang Chen remainedposed. He replied calmly, "I am Xia Xuanji, a wandering cultivator. Pleased to meet you."


    Fairy Yu nced at Fang Chen with a strange expression.


    Another figure emerged from a nearby alley and addressed Fang Chen as well. "I am Yang Qing from the Nine Deer Valley. Pleased to meet you, Fellow Daoist."


    "I am Fang Ze from the Jade Toad Pce. Pleased to meet you, Daoist."


    "Ding Wan from the White Moon Ind. Pleased to meet you, Daoist"


    "Du Kong from the Prajna Sect. Pleased to meet you, Fellow Cultivator."


    "The Water Moon Sect''s...."


    One figure after another emerged, all of them at the grandpletion stage of the Golden Core Realm. Moreover, they were all newly-titled Immortal Seedlings.


    If ordinary Golden Candidates in the Central Continent Empire weremon, then these Immortal Seedlings, without exception, were all new stars in the cultivation world. Their names had been circting throughout the Central Continent Empire ever since they had be Immortal Seedlings. Their names had even resounded in second-tier empires.


    The cultivators of the Immortal Dynasty Holy Land were considered fortunate, as they suddenly witnessed dozens of Immortal Seedlings emerging. In normal times, they might never have had the chance to meet any of them in their entire lives!


    "One, two, three, four... thirty-three.... Regardless of what this battle''s oue would be, that person is bound to be famous. Thirty-three Immortal Candidates have all appeared at the same time. Has any Golden Core Realm cultivator ever enjoyed such a scene?" murmured Zhao Kaihe.


    His face portrayed how emotional he was. In fact, in his heart, he couldn''t help but feel a bit envious of Fang Chen.


    The surrounding Nascent Soul Realm cultivators were also deeply moved. Everyone had climbed up step by step from the Golden Core Realm, but even at their most glorious moments, they couldn''tpare to even one-thousandth of the glory that person was experiencing today.


    "What''s there to envy about him? Although we might not have been as strong as him when we were at the Golden Core Realm, we have reached the Nascent Soul Realm, bing experts. As for him... I''m afraid he will forever remain at the Golden Core Realm," a Nascent Soul Realm cultivatormented indifferently.


    The others nodded lightly. Even though innate talent and aptitude determined what a cultivator would aplish on their path of cultivation, what mattered in the end was who walked the furthest. This principle has remained unchanged since ancient times.

 Chapter 520: Daoist Xia, Are You Serious?

    <h4>Chapter 520: Daoist Xia, Are You Serious?</h4>


    Fairy Yu smiled at Fang Chen. "Lord, it''s quite lively around here. There are thirty-three Immortal Seedlings in total."


    Each of these Immortal Seedlings surpassed Jing Yuehan by far. Yet now, they are actually joining forces to deal with her and Fang Chen. This made her feel a bit emotional.


    <i>The lord has actually reached this sort of level in less than twenty years....</i>


    Fang Chen smiled. "Heavenly King Zhen''s Manor is quite impressive to be able to summon dozens of Immortal Seedlings so easily."


    "We aren''t only here because of Heavenly King Zhen''s Manor. We also want to see who can y Immortal Seedlings so easily for ourselves," said the Seven Profound Sect''s Meng Tianshu lightly. "I wish to spar with you. If you can deal with me, I''ll leave immediately and won''t block your way again."


    Another Immortal Seedling frowned, and he turned to look at Meng Tianshu with disgust. "Meng Tianshu, isn''t this inappropriate? We agreed to cooperate. What''s with your change of heart?"


    "I just want to exchange pointers with a strong opponent. My purpose ining here is different from yours. You cooperate to achieve your goals, and I''ll do my thing. We arepletely unrted," replied Meng Tianshu indifferently.


    The other Immortal Seedling sneered in a low voice. "There¡¯s nothing surprising about this. An Immortal Seedling from the Seven Profound Sect wouldn''t have much brains."


    Meng Tianshu didn''t mind being mocked. The Seven Profound Sect was indeed much weaker than most of these Immortal Seedlings'' sects. But what did it matter to him? In the end, one had to walk the path of immortality alone.


    The background of the sect was just an essory.


    Fang Chen smiled. "Are you really nning to fight me one-on-one?"


    "It''s not exactly a fight. I''ll just make one move," Meng Tianshu said lightly. "I know my limits. If this move can''t stop you, then I have no means to deal with you."


    The others looked slightly intrigued. As if they had figured something out, they turned to look at Meng Tianshu with doubt.


    Yun Tai quietly asked, "I heard that the Seven Profound Sect obtained a sword technique from the Ancient Immortal Road?"


    "Yes, I heard that a sword technique has emerged from the Ancient Immortal Road."


    Another nodded lightly. "We couldn''t confirm it before, but looks like the rumors are true."


    "Your Heavenly King Zhen Manor also sent someone to contact Meng Tianshu before, trying to recruit him. But this guy is quite proud and apparently rejected your manor''s goodwill." The speaker chuckled. "He might not realize that bing an Immortal Seedling is just the beginning. With the strength of the Seven Profound Sect, nurturing a true Immortal Seedling might be beyond their capabilities."


    Gai Hong said lightly, "The Immortal Seedlings of the Immortal Court are true Immortal Seedlings. At the very least, one must be from an Immortal Manor. Anything other than that, it could only be said that one is quite talented and has the potential to reach the Middle Three Realms."


    Everyone nodded and smiled, as this was a consensus and had many precedents. Many formidable Dao Union experts in the Central Continent Empire were once Immortal Seedlings, but the Dao Union Realm had been the end of their Immortal Path.


    ***


    "One move?" Fang Chen nodded with a smile. "Daoist, please make your move."


    Without any hesitation, Meng Tianshu clenched his hand into a fist, and a special force condensed instantly, transforming into a long de that shed directly toward Fang Chen.


    That de was in and unadorned, without any fancy spectacle. Yet, after he wielded it, a sense of rm echoed in the hearts of nearby Immortal Seedlings, and they broke out in goosebumps. This sh posed a great threat to them, perhaps even threatening their lives! Some Immortal Seedlings, who were initially taking it lightly, even showed serious faces.


    Even the Nascent Soul Realm cultivators nearby could feel a chilling and awe-inspiring aura emanating from that strike.


    "This de is extraordinary," murmured a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator.


    Zhao Kaihe''s expression wasplex; as a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator, he also sensed a hint of danger from that de.


    It was widely said that Immortal Seedlings could pose a threat to Nascent Soul Realm cultivators. Judging by the feeling Meng Tianshu''s de instilled in them, it was most likely true. Moreover, Meng Tianshu''s de was much more formidable than the methods of the average Immortal Seedling.


    Meanwhile, in various parts of the Central Continent Empire, many cultivators held the Heaven Profound Mirror in their hands. What was happening at the Dynasty Manor was being broadcasted on the Mirror. Even though they were thousands of miles apart, the people watching felt a chill race down their spine when Meng Tianshu''s strike emerged.


    "No wonder he¡¯s called an Immortal Seedlings. Even when he casually strikes out, you can still sense the deep threat within it," someone remarked excitedly. "I wonder how Xia Xuanji will counter him."


    Among the people watching were a man and a woman. They were not too far away, watching the scene through the Profound Heaven Mirror. After watching for a while, the woman suddenly looked at the man with a cold sneer and said, "Your Majesty, looks like you''re about to be famous."


    The man replied lightly, "Your nephew''s actions are quite unorthodox. I''ll send him to the underworld the next time I see him."


    The woman smiled slightly."Perhaps he''ll be the one to send you to the underworld, Your Majesty."


    ***


    "What powerful de intent..,. The de technique he has mastered may not be inferior to the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture."


    Fang Chen''s heart slightly tightened.


    It can now be confirmed that the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture originated from the Immortal Realm, from the former master of Little Sword.


    That was a legitimate immortal technique. And Meng Tianshu had also mastered an immortal technique!


    Facing this de momentum that seemed to cut through everything and shatter the void, Fang Chen''s thoughts merely flickered. A golden hand reached out from the void, stopping the de''s momentum.


    <i>Crack!</i>


    The de momentum shattered.


    Fang Chen smiled and nodded. "Thank you for going easy on me."


    The surroundings fell somewhat silent, and many of the young immortals looked on in astonishment.


    After Meng Tianshu released that de, his face turned a little pale. However, when he saw Fang Chen stop his de''s momentum easily using the Five Elements Controlling Technique, his face turned as pale as paper. In fact, brief confusion even appeared in his eyes.


    At that moment, everyone watching the fight on the Heaven Profound Mirror went silent. Some started even rubbing their eyes, thinking their eyes were ying tricks on them.


    After the shock subsided, Meng Tianshu slowly came to his senses. He looked at Fang Chen with anticipation and said, "Daoist, the technique you just used was the Five Elements Controlling Technique, wasn''t it?"


    Fang Chen lightly nodded. "That was indeed the Five Elements Controlling Technique."


    Hearing Fang Chen''s reply, thest shred of hope in Meng Tianshu''s heart shattered. Face turning rigid, he slowly turned to leave, his steps resembling those of a Walking Corpse.


    The people around could hear him murmuring, "My de technique was shattered by the Five Elements Controlling Technique. What''s the use of me practicing de techniques then? Why! Why!"


    Seeing how Meng Tianshu''s spirit had been broken, Fang Chen smiled and called out, "Daoist Meng, a single loss is enough to shatter your state of mind? Can''t youe at me another time to redeem yourself?"


    Meng Tianshu''s eyes regained rity. He paused slightly. Turning to look at Fang Chen and the surrounding young immortals, he said seriously, "Daoist Xia, are you serious? Are you sure you can leave here alive today?"


    Fang Chen replied with a smile, "I''ll live longer than you, I''ll tell you that much."


    "Hahahahaha!" Meng Tianshu suddenly burst into wildughter. He nodded at Fang Chen and said, "Until next time then."


    With that, Meng Tianshu walked away. In a few steps, he disappeared from everyone''s sight. The difference was that, this time, his steps had be much firmer.

 Chapter 521: Only at the Foundation Building Realm

    <h4>Chapter 521: Only at the Foundation Building Realm</h4>


    "What a pity."


    Many found Fang Chen pulling Meng Tianshu out of his shattered state of mind rather regretful.


    The two elders at the Dao Union Realm exchanged looks, each seeing a hint of surprise in the other''s eyes. "The Five Elements Control Technique.... This boy''s methods have a sense of Returning to the Origin, but this shouldn''t appear on someone at the Golden Core Realm."


    "Returning to the Origin" meant that one was reaching the pinnacle, stripping away the fanciness and returning to the original essence, restoring everything to its initial state!


    At that level, even a de of grass or a branch could be an immortal sword as long as one willed!


    However, how could a mere junior, who had yet to reach the pinnacle, achieve Returning to the Origin?


    "Fellow Cultivator Chen, can you discern his lineage?"


    "He only used the Five Elements Controlling Technique... how can I discern his lineage? Let''s watch a bit longer."


    The two elders'' gazes fell back on Fang Chen.


    At this moment, the group of young cultivators turned grim as they looked at Fang Chen.


    They had been previously skeptical about the three Immortal Seedlings dying by Fang Chen''s hand. However, Fang Chen had effortlessly neutralized Meng Tianshu''s de. Not only was this enough to prove that he had the potential to be an Immortal Seedling, but it even showed that his methods far exceeded theirs!


    Because each Immortal Seedling was inherently proud and arrogant, they had been unwilling to admit this. However, the factsid before them forced even the proudest to begin seriously reassessing Fang Chen.


    Zhao Kaihe''s eyes flickered. "Can I block that move if I used the Five Elements Controlling Technique too...?"


    After a thoughtful pause, he reached a conclusion. If he were to use the Five Elements Control Technique, he probably wouldn''t be able topletely block Meng Tianshu''s strike!


    Zhao Kaihe frowned. "Is he really at the Golden Core Realm?"


    Suddenly, a thought arose in his mind, and he immediately said loudly, "Everyone, this person has a treasure to conceal his aura. His cultivation level has never been confirmed to be at the Golden Core Realm. Perhaps he is a Nascent Soul or even an Enlightenment Realm cultivator!"


    Everyone was momentarily stunned, and they quickly realized that this was true. Having their eyes opened to this possibility, the Immortal Seedlings around instinctively took a few steps back.


    If their opponent was at the Nascent Soul Realm, or even at the Enlightenment Realm, what chance did they have?


    "Wasn''t there an agreement? If anyone above the Golden Core Realm intervenes, it would break the rules."


    One Immortal Seedling frowned and said, "If he really is upove the Golden Core Realm, we wouldn¡¯t need to do anything... The elders will take care of it."


    Murmurs arose, with many beginning to question Fang Chen''s cultivation level.


    On the cloud tform, the representative from the Immortal Giant Sect looked toward Gai Hong and asked, "Has your Heavenly King Zhen Manor confirmed this person''s cultivation level?"


    "It seems not..." Gai Hong replied thoughtfully.


    The representative from the Immortal Giant Sect immediately flew into a rage, leaping andnding with a loud crash in front of the Immortal Seedlings


    When everyone saw his frame, they knew he was from the Immortal Giant Sect.


    The Immortal Giant Sect''s representative pointed at Fang Chen''s nose, his eyes icy. "Are you not at the Golden Core Realm?"


    "When did I ever say I was at the Golden Core Realm?" Fang Chen replied with a faint smile.


    "If you''re not at the Golden Core Realm, how dare you intervene in this matter and kill an Immortal Seedling from the Immortal Giant Sect? Today, I will use you as a sacrifice to the Heavens!"


    Roaring the loudly, Immortal Giant Sect''s representative''s aura surged wildly. Just as he was about to make a move, a figure appeared in front of him, stopping his hand.


    The Immortal Giant Sect''s representative was shocked. "Senior Su?"


    The neer was Su Mo, a Dao Union Realm cultivator stationed at the Immortal Dynasty Manor.


    In this era, where cultivators at the Tribtion and Ascension Realms were scarce, Dao Union Realm cultivators were the strongest people that ordinary cultivators could encounter.


    Moreover, hailing from the Deste Academy, Su Mo''s background was extraordinary. Just his identity alone earned him a certain degree of respect from the heavenly talents born in the major celestial courts.


    "Don''t be hasty. If he is truly above the Golden Core Realm, it won''t be toote for you to act then," reminded Su Mo, chuckling.


    After that, he looked at Fang Chen and said, "Young friend, you said you''re not at the Golden Core Realm? Could you dispel your aura-concealing treasure and let us see your cultivation level? If you are above the Golden Core Realm, it would break the rules, and I''m afraid many cultivators in the Middle Three Realms will be ready to take your life."


    Everyone''s eyes fell on Fang Chen, waiting for him to dispel his aura-concealing treasure.


    Hearing that, Fang Chen was hit with a realization. <i>Even this senior can''t see through my cultivation level? It seems my soul power is stronger than I thought.</i>


    The next moment, he retracted his soul power, and his aura slowly began to seep out.


    Then, the smile on Su Mo''s face slowly turned rigid with astonishment.


    Simrly, the Immortal Seedlings were dumbfounded.


    The surrounding cultivators from various forces rubbed their eyes in disbelief.


    On the cloud tform, someone looked at Gai Hong with incredulity. "Did I sense that correctly?"


    "You should''ve sensed it correctly..." Gai Hong muttered. He looked at Gai Yunuo and asked, "Second Sister, did I sense that correctly?"


    Gai Yunuo frowned, her gaze fixed intently on Fang Chen. "It doesn''t make sense that he''s only at the Foundation Building Realm..."


    Zhao Kaihe was bbergasted. His thoughts began to race. <i>Early-stage Foundation Building Realm early stage?! How is it possible that he is only at the Foundation Building Realm?!</i>


    The aura Fang Chen was releasing was unmistakably that of an early-stage Foundation Building Realm cultivator.


    This revtion was even more shocking than the deaths of the three Immortal Seedlings!


    It was understandable for Immortal Seedlings to fight amongst themselves. While they were all Immortal Seedlings, there was still a hierarchy between them. Some people had barely met the standards of Immortal Seedlings, while others were exceptional even among Immortal Seedlings.


    But how could anyone be an Immortal Seedling with a cultivation at the Foundation Building Realm?!


    "Could he be the cherished disciple of some First Rate Sect Leader?" Someone stammered.


    "Hiss..."


    Whether they were in the Lower Four Realms, the Middle Three Realms, or even the Upper Three Realms, all the cultivators gasped when they heard this possibility.


    A First Rate Sect Leader!


    Even an existence like Heavenly King Zhen wouldn''t amount to much in front of a First Rate Sect Leader!


    In this era''s world, the Central Continent hadn''t been annexed by Northern Dipper and Celestial Heaven precisely because of those First Rate Sect Leaders supporting it.


    These were the strongest existences no matter which era they were ced in!


    The Immortal Giant Sect''s representative was slow to react. Seeing that Fang Chen was only at the early stage of the Foundation Building Realm, he gasped instinctively. "You''re only at the Foundation Building Realm?"


    Fang Chen smiled and nodded. "Yes, that¡¯s right. I am only at the Foundation Building Realm."


    <i>A mere Foundation Building Realm...</i>


    The expressions of the Immortal Seedlings varied. If he was merely a Foundation Building Realm disciple, then what were they? Mere Golden Core Realm cultivators? Mere Immortal Seedlings?


    They had assumed that he was simr to them, having reached the grandpletion stage of the Golden Core Realm! Even if they couldn''t defeat him, the gap between them shouldn''t be too vast.


    Who would have thought that he would be an early-stage Foundation Building Realm cultivator?!


    Someone like that had actually in three Immortal Seedlings and defeated the Seven Profound Sect''s Meng Tianshu.


    The strength he disyed was terrifying beyond their imagination. Why would a Foundation Building Realm cultivator have such abilities?


    If he were at the peak of the Golden Core Realm, wouldn''t even Nascent Soul Realm cultivators be like mere chickens and dogs before him?


    The Immortal Giant Sect''s representative finally reacted, his expression darkening. "How could you kill Immortal Seedlings if you''re merely at the Foundation Building Realm?"


    "Who said that a Foundation Building Realm cultivator can''t kill Immortal Seedlings?" Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    The Immortal Giant Sect''s representative was left speechless.


    Everyone had peculiar expressions. His words made sense, and the logic was sound, yet something felt off.


    Grappling with the incongruity, the crowd fell silent. Fang Chen, who could exhibit such overwhelming strength at the Foundation Building Realm, threw their understanding of cultivation and strength into disarray.


    The Immortal Seedlings, who had always prided themselves on their exceptional talents and achievements, now found themselves questioning the very foundations of their beliefs.

 Chapter 522: Perhaps You Should Turn Around and Look

    <h4>Chapter 522: Perhaps You Should Turn Around and Look</h4>


    "Your cultivation level.... Right, you haven¡¯t vited any rules. If you can leave the Immortal Dynasty Manor today, you''re wee to visit my mansion in the future," said Su Mo, smiling faintly at Fang Chen.


    After that, he turned and left. The Great Immortal Sect''s representative seized the opportunity to leave with him.


    However, after Fang Chen''s cultivation level was exposed, the atmosphere became stifled. The faces of the Immortal Seedlings were bing increasingly unpleasant by the second.


    Fang Chen grinned. "Everyone, don''t go easy on me just because I''m only at the Foundation Building Realm. Please, feel free to make your move so we can settle this quickly."


    "There¡¯s no point in fighting you; you''re just merely at the Foundation Establishment Realm!"


    Grumbling, one Immortal Seedling turned to leave. Following his lead, the others departed one by one until only a handful remained.


    They exchanged looks, nodded respectfully to Fang Chen, and then walked away.


    Fairy Yu looked puzzled. Was that really how it was going to end? She had expected a crushing battle and secretly anticipated watching these Immortal Seedlings cry for mercy under Fang Chen''s hand.


    Fairy Yu sighed softly to herself. "Sigh, they''re lucky."


    The surrounding cultivators also sighed simultaneously. They understood that these Immortal Seedlings were in a tight spot. If Fang Chen had been a Golden Core Immortal Seedling, losing would be eptable. Even dying wouldn''t be terrifying. At least they could leave behind a few lines of splendid epitaphs.


    However, Fang Chen was merely at the Foundation Establishment stage....


    If Fang Chen killed them, would their tombstones end up being etched with, "So-and-so, a genius Immortal Seedling, died at the hands of a Foundation Establishment cultivator"?


    Not only would they have shamed their sects, they might even be barred from their ancestral graves!


    In summary, they valued their reputation more than their lives. Even if they were to win, it wouldn''t earn them much glory.


    A group of Immortal Seedlings ganging up on someone at the Foundation Building Realm? This would likely cause the term "Immortal Seedling" to be a subject ofughter in the future!


    "My lords, we are not Immortal Seedlings and have no fear of losing face. Shall we go?"


    Zhao Kaihe and others behind him spoke up.


    They were the pce guards after all.


    Zhao Kaihe frowned slightly, looking toward Gai Hong and others on the tform. "The young lord hasn''t spoken yet, why are you in such a hurry?"


    "Big Brother, what do we do now?" Gai Yunnuo furrowed her brows. "We can''t force these Immortal Seedlings to take action. Since they''re unwilling to continue troubling him, do we have to send the pce guards to their deaths?"


    Frustrated, Gai Hong replied, "What else can we do? We aren''t in control of the situation anymore. Who knows if this kid has a First Rate Sect Leader backing him up?"


    Gai Yunnuo nodded. She didn''t want to risk offending a patriarch just for Gai Wu. If an existence like that willed it, they could easily cause the Heavenly King Zhen Manor to fall apart with just a thought.


    Suddenly, someone''s voice rang out, filled with sarcasm and mockery, "Who would have thought that the people praised as Immortal Seedlings would all turn into gutless cowards in the face of battle."


    The Immortal Seedlings who had been about to leave suddenly stopped in their tracks, turning to re angrily at the neer.


    It was a young Taoist priest. His handsome face was adorned with a purple-gold crown, exuding an aura of detachment. Following his appearance, hundreds of fully aplished Golden Core cultivators began to appear one after another, all dressed in simr robes.


    Someone recognized the origin of these Taoist cultivators, their expression turning somewhat peculiar. "It''s the Great Expansion Dao Gate!"


    As those Immortal Seedlings were about to hurl insults at the young man, they noticed who he was, and they quickly swallowed back whatever words they were about to spew. This person was an Immortal Seedling too, but he wasn''t from this generation. His seniority exceeded even that of Gai Hong and hispanions.


    "Xu Qingsong? It seems that the Great Expansion Dao Gate is keen on avenging their Immortal Seedling, or else Xu Qingsong wouldn''t have personally led the team," remarked Gai Hong, his expression turning grim.


    Xu Qingsong hadpleted the Ancient Immortal Road earlier than they did and had since been quietly cultivating within the Great Expansion Dao Gate. Due to the Great Expansion Dao Gate being secluded for many years due to conflicts with the Void Immortal Sword Sect, they hadn''t interacted with the world.


    However, recently, rumors circted among major immortal courts that despite being merely a sect at that level, the Great Expansion Dao Gate had a venerable ancestor who had broken through the Heavenly Tribtion and ascended to the stage of Ascension. Since then, the Great Expansion Dao Gate had shown signs of emerging from its seclusion.


    The appearance of Xu Qingsong confirmed these rumors.


    After mocking those Immortal Seedlings, Xu Qingsong''s gaze fell upon Fang Chen, a warm smile on his face. "Could it be that my unremarkable little brother met his end at your hands?"


    The crowd suddenly realized that the Immortal Seedling from the Great Expansion Dao Gate whom Fang Chen had killed was Xu Qingsong''s younger brother. Despite their age difference, both brothers had sessfully treaded the Ancient Immortal Road. This revtion left them silently in awe.


    Fang Chen nodded with a smile. "Your brothercked perseverance."


    Xu Qingsong chuckled, "Let''s not care about him then. By the way, where did his left eye end up?"


    "Your Excellency may not know, that eye is a treasure of our Great Expansion Dao Gate. My younger brother acted rashly and stole it. Although he has passed away, I must retrieve this item to exin to the elders of my sect."


    "An eye?"


    Hearing their conversation, the crowd was astonished.


    What kind of eye would be spoken of in such a manner? They understood these sects possessed profound heritage, containing many relics passed down from ancient times. Perhaps the eye mentioned by Xu Qingsong was indeed a precious artifact.


    "I ate that eye," replied Fang Chen calmly.


    Xu Qingsongughed heartily. "No matter, no matter. Since you''ve consumed it, its medicinal properties are now within you. As long as we capture you and refine you into medicine, you will do just as well."


    Xu Qingsong turned to the Golden Core cultivators with him and ordered, "Lay down the formation. Kill the woman, capture the man alive."


    With that, Xu Qingsong turned and headed toward the tform where Gai Hong and others were located. Over a hundred Golden Core cultivators of the Great Expansion Dao Gate quickly arranged themselves into a formation, with each cultivator at the center being at the grandpletion stage of the Golden Core Realm.


    "Young Master, there are a total of 108 Golden Core cultivators," said Fairy Yu, clearly concerned.


    If they had only been in the dozens, they would''ve been manageable. But there were a hundred of them. Even she wasn''t sure if Fang Chen could handle them.


    "Oh, by the way, let me remind you," Xu Qingsong suddenly turned his head and added, "This is the Great Expansion Dao Gate''s ''Sealing Immortal Formation.'' Long ago, our sect used it to seal and exterminate true immortals."


    As his words fell, the 108 Golden Core cultivators roared angrily, their auras interweaving.


    In the void, a faintly terrifying figure suddenly appeared.


    The aura of this figure even surpassed many Nascent Soul cultivators present! The crowd finally understood the immense power of the Sealing Immortal Formation as their faces turned serious.


    108 Golden Core cultivators, normally no match for Nascent Soul cultivators, had nowbined their spiritual powers to create a terrifying entityparable to a Nascent Soul. Even an average Nascent Soul Realm cultivator might not fare well against it!


    After dropping these words, Xu Qingsong shouted toward the figure on the tform, "Gai Hong, today I''ve helped you remove Demoness Yu. What does your Heavenly King Zhen Manor have to say?"


    Gai Hong hesitated for a moment.


    Just as he was about to speak, he froze as shock surfaced on his face.


    He witnessed a sword cut down the virtual figure formed from the Sealing Immortal Formation, followed by all 108 Golden Core cultivators simultaneously spitting out blood before being engulfed by a sword light.


    As this sword light traversed the void, everything in its wake turned into dust and ashes. Not only had the Sealing Immortal Formation been destroyed, but all 108 Golden Core cultivators of the Great Expansion Dao Gate were alsopletely wiped out.


    "Xu Qingsong, you might want to turn around and take a look," Gai Hong said with a strange expression.

 Chapter 523: Killing Chickens to Scare Monkeys

    <h4>Chapter 523: Killing Chickens to Scare Monkeys</h4>


    "Turn around and take a look?" muttered Xu Qingsong, furrowing his brows lightly.


    Cranking his head to take a look, the thin smile on his lips disappeared instantly, reced by an extremely unpleasant expression. Not only had the Sealing Immortal Formation been shattered, but the 108 Golden Core Realm cultivators had also vanished without a trace, leaving only a few ashes behind. Without a doubt, the 108 Golden Core Realm cultivators he brought had been in.


    The young cultivators from various sects were dumbfounded, staring nkly at the somewhat aloof figure. Was the man truly in the Foundation Building Realm?


    They were a good distance away, yet the power of those two swords caused chills to race down their spines.


    If they hadn''t retreated and chose to continue fighting, it was highly likely that they would have beenpletely annihted along with the other Golden Core Realm cultivators.


    Thinking of this, their horrified eyes turned slightly resentful as cold sweat soaked through their robes. Fortunately, they had retreated; if they had been obdurate, their fate wouldn''t have been much different from those Golden Core Realm cultivators.


    "What sword technique is this?! Which lineage of sword cultivation does he belong to?"


    The Nascent Soul Realm cultivators around Zhao Kaihe felt their hearts go cold. Their eyes were filled with shock and confusion.


    To some extent, they had witnessed the formidable power of sword cultivation for themselves. Otherwise, Heavenly King Zhen''s Manor wouldn''t have feared the Void Immortal Sword Sect to such an extent, fearing those hundred thousand sword cultivators.


    However, their understanding of sword cultivators was that they were invincible within the same realm. They agreed on that at least.


    However... This person was clearly only at the early-stage Foundation Establishment, yet he had crossed two major realms and broken the Sealing Immortal Formation!


    Moreover, he had even cut down 108 Golden Core Realm cultivators!


    The Heaven Profound Mirror had already transmitted this scene to the countless cultivators watching.


    In many sects and major cities, there were giant Heaven Profound Mirrors erected. Beneath these Mirrors were countless cultivators, standing and watching.


    At this moment, regardless of where those cultivators were in the Central Continent, they all fell silent the moment they witnessed Fang Chen''s two sword strikes.


    They couldn''t help but raise a question in their hearts. Can sword cultivation really be so powerful?


    ***


    Void Immortal Sword Sect.


    A group of sword cultivators looked at a Heaven Profound Mirror in silence. The aura of these sword cultivators was not weak; They were all in the Middle Three Realms, men and women, old and young. There were even several of them at the Dao Union Realm.


    Suddenly, an elder at the forefront, who was at the Dao Union Realm, spoke slowly. "If I''m not mistaken, his name is Fang Chen, right? He was registered with the Void Immortal Sword Sect a few years ago. Who was responsible for this?"


    "Xiao Huang?" answered an elderly woman tentatively.


    She was emitting an aura at the Middle Three Realms.


    "Fetch him."


    Before long, a white-robed old man arrived in a sh of sword light and quickly bowed respectfully to everyone present.


    "Xiao Huang, were you responsible for his registration back then?" the elderly woman asked.


    "Master, I was indeed the one who helped him with his registration. I thought he perished already. I never expected him toe back to life..." the white-robed old man hurriedly replied.


    The elder who spoke first frowned. "Then why isn''t he a disciple of the sect anymore?"


    The white-robed old man showed a bitter twist. He answered in a low voice, "Not too long ago, Heavenly King Zhen''s Manor sent people to inquire whether the Void Immortal Sword Sect was involved in this matter. I found it strange and investigated, only to find out that it was this person they were speaking about.


    ¡°To avoid breaking the agreement between our sect and Heavenly King Zhen''s Manor, I took it upon myself to expel him...."


    The Elder in the Dao Unity Realm said solemnly, "Send a few people to bring him back to the sect and reinstate his registration. A talented individual like this cannot be left to wander outside; he is a natural born sword cultivator."


    "But won''t this vite the agreement with Heavenly King Zhen''s Manor?"


    "The me for this lies with them, not us. Bring him back to me and don''t worry about the rest."


    "Yes...."


    ***


    At the Extreme Sword Peak of the Void Immortal Sword Sect, thousands of sword cultivators were standing in front of a gigantic Heaven Profound Mirror. Among these cultivators were people at the Golden Core Realm, Nascent Soul Realm, and many in the Middle Three Realms.


    "Could this guy be the "lord" Junior Sister Yu mentioned? How can his swordsmanship be so terrifying!? I don''t even have confidence in facing his sword head-on!" a Golden Core Realm cultivator at the grandpletion stage eximed in shock.


    Several Nascent Soul cultivators nced at him indifferently, and one of them said lightly, "That one sword is enough to cut down a peak Nascent Soul Early Stage. If you were to fight him, you''d likely be defeated in just one move."


    "It''s fortunate that Fang Chen is protecting Junior Sister Yu. It''s a pity that we can''t intervene; otherwise, how could we let them be so arrogant?"


    "You may not know this, but Fang Chen had been a disciple of our Void Immortal Sword Sect. It''s just that he was expelled not long ago. Speaking of which, he can be considered our junior brother."


    A cultivator emitting the aura of the Middle Three Realms slowly approached, his eyes filled with contemtion as he looked at the figure in the Heaven Profound Mirror.


    "There is such a thing, Senior Brother Qin? Howe we never knew about it?"


    The crowd was stunned, and they all looked toward Senior Brother Qin.


    Qin Huocheng shook his head lightly. "Because this matter hadn''t been publicized as it involves a sword embryo rted to our sect. The elders are afraid of the news leaking out."


    "Damn it! Our junior brother and junior sister were humiliated by the Heavenly King Zhen Manor like this, and we can''t do anything about it? What kind of situation is this! I''m going to find the elders and ask them to expel me, so it won''t be considered breaking the rules!"


    A Golden Core Realm sword cultivator suddenly cursed loudly before transforming into a sword and flying away.


    Moved, many Golden Core Realm sword cultivators nned to follow suit.


    Seeing this, Qin Huocheng waved his hand to stop them.


    ***


    ¡°<i>That reminded me of what happened at Grand Qian. I don''t want to witness you sweeping through the ages again</i>," Fairy Yu transmitted, hoping not to see Fang Chen take such drastic actions again.


    "<i>I''m fine.</i>" Fang Chen smiled reassuringly. "<i>From now on, no Golden Core Realm cultivator will dare to oppose us lest they wish to die.</i>"


    Indeed, the Sealing Immortal Formation had been formidable. The strength of that projection just now was likely at the peak of the early Nascent Soul stage. Even Nascent Souls like Immortal Void Rush, Supreme Expert Dragon Wood, or Immortal White Tiger wouldn''t stand a chance against it. Only Kunlong Battle General couldpare.


    That was why Fang Chen had used the third sword. As he had guessed, after his Sword Body advanced to the fourth rank, the power of Little Sword increased a lot. This sword not only directly extinguished that projection but also shattered the Sealing Immortal Formation.


    Immediately after, Fang Chen delivered another strike using the third sword of the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture to the Golden Core Realm cultivators in the formation. They couldn''t even react before they were engulfed in the sword light.


    That was exactly the effect Fang Chen wanted. He would either avoid fighting altogether or, if fighting was inevitable, scare the Golden Core Realm cultivators so much that they wouldn¡¯t dare fight.


    Silence pervaded the surroundings until Xu Qingsong spoke up. He took a deep breath and scanned everyone present. "Which senior vited the rules and intervened in this matter?"


    People were momentarily stunned before recalling that he had just turned away from Fang Chen didn''t see what had happened.

 Chapter 524: Immortals Blood

    <h4>Chapter 524: Immortal''s Blood</h4>


    Xu Qingsong''s inquiry received no response. Fang Chen didn''t even nce at him, instead taking Fairy Yu with him as they continued on their way. The surrounding Golden Core cultivators quickly stepped aside, fearing that they might identally block Fang Chen''s path and end up being struck down.


    Xu Qingsong turned livid. He watched as Fang Chen and Fairy Yu walked past him without a word. He once again questioned those around him, "Dare you admit it? Do you really think that cultivators from the Great Expansion Dao Gate can be casually killed at will!?"


    Still, there was no response from the crowd, their gazes growing increasingly strange.


    Seeing this, Xu Qingsong suddenly turned toward the direction of the cloud tform and eximed, "Gai Hong, someone has vited the agreement between the Heavenly King Zhen Manor and the Void Immortal Sword Sect. Are you going to do nothing?"


    Gai Hong sighed softly, looking at Xu Qingsong with a sliver of pity. "Friend Xu, no one has vited the agreement. From beginning to end, no one above the Golden Core Realm has intervened."


    The Great Expansion Dao Gate had secluded themselves for far too long. They had cut themselves off from the world and lost contact with their fellow cultivators. It seemed like their minds had dulled over the years.


    "Hahaha! Are you suggesting that they broke the Sealing Immortal Formation? Do you expect me to believe that a Golden Core and a Foundation Building Realm cultivator could break my sect''s Sealing Immortal Formation!? This formation once hunted down true immortals in ancient times!"


    Xu Qingsong pointed at Fang Chen and Fairy Yu''s backs,ughing angrily.


    "Xu Qingsong, enough already. There was no Great Expansion Dao Gate in ancient times! Besides, as for this Sealing Immortal Formation hunting true immortals, hah... Do you have a hundred and eight ascended cultivators to use the formation? Even if you managed to gather a hundred and eight of them, it would still be difficult, right? What''s the point of bringing this up? Who are you trying to scare?"


    Someone sneered coldly.


    Xu Qingsong was shocked. He then looked sharply at Fang Chen and Fairy Yu, a hint of fierceness shing in his eyes. "Since you were the ones who broke the rules first, don''t me me!"


    A terrifying aura surged from him, almost reaching the peak of the Fusion Realm in an instant.


    Someone in the crowd gasped in shock. "He''s at the peak of the Middle Three Realms!"


    Many had assumed that Xu Qingsong was at most at the Soul Splitting Realm. They hadn''t expected his cultivation to be simr to that of people like Gai Hong.


    In the Central Continent Empire, reaching the Fusion Realm was already more than enough to establish a sect. If an expert like that was outside the Central Continent Empire, they could easily establish an entire second-tier empire.


    Just like Gai Hong, the Emperor of Giant Antler, and Gai Yunnuo, the Empress of the Celestial Dome.


    Gai Yunnuo frowned slightly. "Xu Qingsong is nning on breaking the rules."


    "I see." Gai Hong sneered, his eyes fixed on Xu Qingsong. "He''s not really stupid. He''s just looking for an excuse. He was never he to avenge his young brother; he just wanted to reim the Great Expansion Dao Sect''s treasure."


    They were curious about what kind of treasure could make the Great Expansion Dao Sect risk offending the Void Immortal Sword Sect.


    A faint sneer appeared in Gai Hong''s eyes. "Unfortunately, he missed something important."


    At the same time, Fang Chen''s footsteps paused, and strange blue lights flickered in his eyes. Walls condensed of the metal element rose up one after another. These walls, towering hundreds of zhang high, formed a fortress, separating Fang Chen and Fairy Yu from their pursuers.


    Fang Chen took out the Greenwood Token and handed it to Fairy Yu. "Go to the Greenwood Sect. Even if the chance is slim, you must try. Stay alive."


    "I''m not leaving you." Fairy Yu held the Greenwood Token with a stubborn look in her eyes. She calmly said, "Lord, there''s something I haven''t told you. After I condensed the Inverse Immortal Demonic Embryo, my lifespan was reduced to only thirty years. If I don''t devour the lifespan of others, I won''t survive long.


    "This fate is forcing me toward the dark side. But I know if I really turn to the dark side, you won''t talk to me anymore, won''t take care of me, won''t protect me. So instead of living without purpose for thirty years, I''d rather apany you. We¡¯ll walk this journey together to the very end."


    Fang Chen was stunned. "Thirty years?"


    He had no idea about this. The Inverse Immortal Demonic Embryo was so sinister that condensing it would leave only thirty years of lifespan?


    It was clearly forcing the host toward darkness, killing cultivators everywhere to devour their lifespan.


    "Fortunately, many Golden Core cultivators havee to me over the years. Even if I stop killing now, I can still live for thirty more years." Fairy Yu smiled faintly. "Lord, run away. Your Sword Transformation Technique is incredibly fast. There''s still a glimmer of hope you can escape. Don''t worry about me. They won''t send Nascent Soul cultivators to deal with me."


    "Run? I didn''t run at the battle of Three World Mountain, nor did I run at the battle in Grand Qian." Fang Chen shook his head lightly. ¡°Do you know why?"


    Fairy Yu chuckled. "It definitely wasn''t because you were afraid it would ruin your reputation."


    Fang Chen''s eyes softened as he smiled faintly. It seemed that Fairy Yu truly understood him. If it weren''t for the concerns weighing on his mind, he would do whatever he pleased and go wherever he wanted. When faced with strong enemies, he would flee if he had the capability. What worth did his reputation have?


    However, things were different now. He had too many things weighing on his heart. He couldn''t seek to be detached from the world as ordinary cultivators did. He couldn''t sever all ties with the mortal world. Not to mention that he wasn''t even willing to do that. In his eyes, worldly matters were more interesting. They were more vibrant.


    "You still have thirty years ahead of you, and there may still be hope. If we can''t find another way to resolve the Inverse Immortal Demonic Embryo, I can take you to find Spirit Blood Sect cultivators and borrow their lifespan. So you must stay alive. Whatever happens next, you don''t need to worry. Just go to Greenwood Sect."


    Fang Chen smiled softly, taking off his storage ring and handing it to Fairy Yu.


    In the next moment, his gaze fell on Little Sword. The mottled bloodstains seemed toe alive, twisting continuously as they slowly flowed into Fang Chen''s body.


    Fairy Yu sensed something and immediately tried to grab Little Sword to stop it, but she felt an inexplicable force surging, sending her flying hundreds of feet away.


    "What rich metal element... This would even leave an ordinary Nascent Soul Realm cultivator stumped for a while," remarked someone in the crowd.


    They couldn''t help but marvel at how a Foundation Building Realm cultivator could employ such methods. It was truly unprecedented.


    Unfortunately, he wasn''t merely facing a Nascent Soul cultivator anymore, but a Fusion Realm expert. In the presence of such a formidable opponent, these walls of bronze and iron appeared exceedingly fragile.


    "Why hasn''t Xu Qingsong made a move yet?" the Immortal Giant Sect''s representative frowned suddenly. "Could he be all bark and no bite?"


    The people around nced at him. They knew he was hoping to use Xu Qingsong to settle scores for the deaths of Immortal Giant Sect''s junior. He was stirring up trouble when things could escte quickly, likely angering the Void Immortal Sword Sect.


    "He''s testing the waters," Ga Hong remarked calmly. "He fears there might be experts protecting this young man, so he''s gauging if anyone will step forward to hinder him."


    The Immortal Giant Sect member looked disappointed. "I know cultivators can be cunning, but even at a time like this, he still has the patience to probe?"


    If it were him, he might have already attacked.


    Xu Qingsong appeared to be circting spiritual power within his body, but he was actually observing his surroundings. Seeing no anomalies, he suddenly waved his sleeve. In an instant, a divine whip struck from the void, smashing Fang Chen''s condensed walls of bronze and iron into pieces.


    Behind the dust, a figure stood motionless.


    The Immortal Seedlings around exchanged looks, seemingly surprised. "Could he have been scared senseless?"


    If they were facing a Fusion Realm cultivator, they too would be too terrified to move.


    It wouldn''t be embarrassing at all, given the vast difference in cultivation levels between the two sides.

 Chapter 525: Are You Talking to Me?

    Chapter 525: Are You Talking to Me?


    Although Xu Qingsong looked at Fang Chen with indifference, his mind was vignt, waiting for any signs of movement around him.


    "Will youe back to the Great Expansion Dao Gate with me, or shall I take action myself?" said Xu Qingsong, his tone calm but filled with threat.


    Fang Chen remained silent, his head lowered. His long ck hair cascaded over his face, concealing much of his expression.


    "Fang Chen¡­¡± murmured Fairy Yu, tears welling up in her eyes and falling like pearls.


    Though she didn''t understand what had happened, she had a premonition that Fang Chen had employed a very strange technique. She could be sure that this technique would immensely affect Fang Chen. This could also be why he had told her to leave him and head to the Greenwood Sect no matter what happened.


    Meanwhile, from the distant Void Immortal Sword Sect, shouts rang out one after another.


    "Great Expansion Dao Gate, how dare they! They actually have the audacity to defy the rules we set with Heavenly King Zhen''s Manor!"


    "Damn it! You all can still tolerate even this? I can''t! If my sword doesn''t draw blood soon, I''ll go berserk! Just like Junior Sister Yu, I''ll develop the Inverse Immortal Demonic Embryo!"


    With a roar, someone turned into a streak of sword light and flew outwards. Following his lead, many sword cultivators transformed into swords, flying toward the location the Heaven Profound Mirror showed.Qin Hucheng didn''t try to stop them. He only looked at the others in the Middle Three Realms.


    "Things havee to this. We can''t let outsiders bully our own people."


    "Just waiting for your words."


    They sneered coldly and transformed into swords together with Qin Hucheng.


    At this moment, countless sword lights ascended into the sky from the Void Immortal Sword Sect.


    In the Sword Ancestor''s Hall, many high-level members of the Void Immortal Sword Sect convened.


    Frowning slightly, one person addressed the figure at the center. "Master, are we letting these brats do as they wish?"


    The figure at the center smiled and replied, "They have been holding back for quite some time. Now that someone has vited the rules, let them handle it."


    He then suggested, "Everyone, it''s been a long time since we visited the Great Expansion Dao Gate, hasn''t it? How about apanying me to pay them a visit? They''ve secluded themselves for so many years, and now they''ve stepped into the world without even informing us; it''s quite disrespectful."


    Excitement shed in the eyes of the crowd. "You approve of this, Patriarch?"


    The figure at the center nodded lightly.


    Suddenly, the Sword Ancestor''s Hall echoed with excited shouts and cries. Soon after, even more terrifying sword lights soared into the sky and disappeared into the horizon.


    Seeing this scene, Qin Hucheng and the others were quickly astonished.


    "Those auras just now...."


    "It seems like all thirty-six Peak Masters have mobilized. They''re heading toward... the Great Expansion Dao Gate!"


    "Yes, I sensed my master''s aura among them. Qin Hucheng, I think I saw your Peak Master just now."


    "Now that the elders are all heading to the Great Expansion Dao Gate, we have nothing to fear. Let''s go. Our destination is the Immortal Dynasty Manor!"


    Qin Hucheng''s lips curled slightly upwards.


    ***


    "Has he been scared silly?"


    Seeing Fang Chen remain silent, head lowered the entire time without responding to Xu Qingsong, a strange expression appeared on everyone''s faces.


    A Foundation Building Realm cultivator whispered, "I understand how he feels. If I were the one facing the Fusion Realm expert, I''d be happy just not to wet myself. That would already bring glory to my ancestors."


    "Is this person from the Great Expansion Dao Gate really fearless? He is at the Foundation Building Realm, yet he can easily kill Immortal Seedlings and can break an Immortal Formation operated by 108 Golden Core Realm experts. An existence like that must have a powerful backing behind him," someone muttered under their breath.


    However, a cultivator who had figured out the situation, much like Gai Hong, vaguely guessed the purpose of Xu Qingsong''s visit. The eye that Xu Qingsong wanted to reim had to be extremely important to the Great Expansion Dao Gate; otherwise, they wouldn''t openly tear up the agreement between the Void Immortal Sword Sect and Heavenly King Zhen''s Manor.


    "Do you think staying silent will do you any good?" Xu Qingsong said lightly.


    Suddenly, Fang Chen began to giggle weirdly, and a strange sound emanated from his throat as if he was choking on something. At the same time, Fang Chen started to tremble lightly, his hands and legs twisting to different degrees, as if performing a bizarre dance.


    Gai Hong and the others were taken aback. "There''s something wrong with his aura!"


    An eerie aura inexplicably emanated from Fang Chen, causing a chill to race down their spines. They had never encountered such an aura before and couldn''t describe it, but they felt that the person in front of them seemed different now.


    Xu Qingsong''s gaze flickered, and he said coldly, "ying tricks? Something like this might deceive weak cultivators, but it won''t work on me."


    As if he had hit the mark, the strange sound suddenly stopped, and Fang Chen''s limbs abruptly straightened. He stood upright, his head slightly raised despite hanging low before.


    His eyes were nowpletely ck without a hint of white.


    A faint smile hung on Fang Chen''s face as he tilted his head and looked at Xu Qingsong. "Are you talking to me?"


    Everyone''s skin began to pimple with goosebumps.


    Fang Chen''s smile seemed sinister no matter how they looked at it.


    "This isn''t the lord''s voice¡­." Fairy Yu bit her lip, staring fixedly at what was happening. "Could that sword have possessed the lord?"


    It seemed like her worst fears wereing true. However, the scene before her was different from what she had heard. Fang Chen''s voice had changed, his eyes had undergone some changes, but he hadn''t turned into a sword. The sword in his hand was still there.


    "This¡­." Xu Qingsong was struck with surprise, and his gaze soon turned grim. "My lord, are you a senior from the Incense Sect?"


    The crowd was startled.


    "Incense Sect!?"


    Now that Xu Qingsong mentioned it, this did resemble the descendence of an Incense Sect''s practitioner.


    Although the Incense Sect was considered insignificant in the Central Continent Empire, they knew that practitioners on this path possessed formidable techniques, and some had even ascended to the Ascension Realm.


    However as unconventional as the Incense Sect was, with their entricities and reliance on mundane incense for cultivation, they were generally looked down upon by mainstream sects. Yet, despite their disdain, many were wary of the methods Incense Sect practitioners employed.


    For instance, the technique disyed before them was known in the Incense Sect as "Divine Descent."


    It finally dawned on the people around that behind this Foundation Building cultivator was likely a prominent figure of the Incense Sect.


    This big shot was currently performing a Divine Descent, upying this person''s physical body, which is why there was that eerie and unsettling aura just now. Even the various techniques disyed earlier might not be his own, but rather the possession of another prominent figure from the Incense Sect who had already descended divinely. Now, it''s just a change of individuals.


    Realizing this, many Immortal Seedlings suddenly found theirplexion improving. They tried to look the best they could.


    "I knew it couldn''t be ordinary Foundation Building Realm techniques. It turns out to be an Incense Sect cultivator. The one who acted earlier must be another powerful figure from the Incense Sect."


    "This exnation makes more sense. He is also a sword cultivator. With another Incense Sect powerhouse secretly assisting through Divine Descent, effortlessly dealing with Nascent Soul and Golden Core cultivators is nothing difficult."


    When the whispers reached Xu Qingsong''s ears, he turned grim. He stared at Fang Chen and said, "The Incense Sect has no dealings or grievances with our Great Expansion Dao Gate before, no friction. Please return the treasure of our Great Expansion Dao Gate, and I will refrain from taking action.


    "Otherwise, even if you are strong, Divine Descent on a Foundation Building Realm cultivator can''t allow you to fully unleash your true strength, making it impossible for you to be my match."

 Chapter 526: Lighter Please

    Chapter 526: Lighter Please


    "Fang Chen" frowned and shouted coldly, ¡°Incense Sect? What nonsense are you babbling about?¡±


    He looked all around him in excitement and exulted, ¡°I¡¯m really alive again!¡±


    He looked down at the long sword in his hand and suddenlyughed gloatingly, ¡°Great, I wondered what was going on. It turns out you¡¯re already dead, and now your descendant recklessly dares to borrow power from my blood. Now his body belongs to me.¡±


    ¡°Belongs to you? Who do you think you are? So presumptuous.¡±


    Suddenly, "Fang Chen''s" voice changed again, bing very deep with a faint domineering tone, as if he were the ruler of the world.


    Yet again, "Fang Chen¡¯s" voice changed, surprisingly turning feminine. ¡°Dragon Emperor? So you also died at his hands? Then it seems we¡¯ll have to fight it out today. Rarely do we get a chance to be reincarnated in a body. We won¡¯t give up this opportunity.¡±


    ¡°Everyone, let¡¯s not rush into internal strife, let¡¯s first deal with the Dragon Emperor. This body will belong to all of us.¡±


    "Fang Chen''s" voice changed once more. ¡°Impudent! A bunch of ants dare to stop me from ruling the world? I will annihte all your nine ns!"


    It seemed as if countless people were inside Fang Chen, constantly vying over control of his body.Everyone watching this scene was dumbfounded. Is this really the Incense Sect!?


    Could it be that there¡¯s internal strife within the Incense Sect, with numerous leaders vying for control of this believer¡¯s body?


    Xu Qingsong¡¯s face showed a trace of dread, and his aura began to slowly calm down, seemingly not intending to make a move easily.


    "How could this happen..." muttered Fairy Yu, her heart shattering.


    She leaped to Fang Chen''s side and urgently yelled, ¡°My lord, wake up!¡±


    "Fang Chen" nced at Fairy Yu. "Lord?"


    He suddenly raised his hand and flung his sleeves, and a powerful force sent Fairy Yu flying through the air for hundreds of meters. Momentster, she fell heavily to the ground and was unable to get up for a long time.


    ¡°It¡¯s my fault that the lord is in this state¡­.¡± muttered Fairy Yu weakly.


    Watching as "Fang Chen" argued with himself, a bleak smile appeared on Fairy Yu''s face.


    ¡°If... If I had told the truth earlier, the lord wouldn¡¯t have risked his life to take me to the Greenwood Sect.¡±


    ¡°He wouldn¡¯t have encountered the cultivators from the Great Expansion Dao Gate and wouldn''t have used this trump card that even he couldn¡¯t control.¡±


    She felt deeply guilty. She wanted so desperately to spend thest few decades peacefully with Fang Chen that she hadn¡¯t dared to reveal the truth.


    A cultivator suddenly gasped in shock. ¡°Hiss¡­ I''ve received a message through the Heaven Profound Mirror saying that the Void Immortal Sword Sect has almost been fully deployed! Some of them are heading to the Great Expansion Dao Gate and others are rushing here to the Immortal Dynasty Manor!¡±


    Everyone hurriedly took out their Heaven Profound Mirror and indeed saw something simr. Some even captured images of the sword cultivators of the Void Immortal Sword Sect leaving their mountain.


    Those countless sword lights, even through the Heaven Profound Mirror, brought inexplicable pressure onto everyone.


    Su Mo put down his Heaven Profound Mirror, his brows slightly furrowed. ¡°This has escted.¡±


    This was the Immortal Dynasty Manor, his territory. Though he had not intervened in this matter, if the sword cultivators of the Void Immortal Sword Sect truly came here, the Immortal Dynasty Manor would inevitably be affected.


    Elder Chen had just put down his Heaven Profound Mirror when he picked up a Transmission Talisman. From it came a dignified voice, ¡°Has our pce broken any rules?¡±


    ¡°No, we have not,¡± Elder Chen hurriedly replied respectfully.


    Su Mo was slightly taken aback; this voice was clearly that of Heavenly King Zhen.


    ¡°Good,¡± said the person on the other end before disappearing.


    Elder Chen looked at Xu Qingsong with a strange expression. ¡°Daoist Su, it seems the Void Immortal Sword Sect and the Great Expansion Dao Sect are about to have another battle.¡±


    Almost simultaneously, cultivators from various Immortal Manors in the Immortal Dynasty Manor received messages from their elders. All inquiries were about whether they had broken any rules.


    Upon receiving negative answers, the elders fell silent.


    Xu Qingsong also picked up a Transmission Talisman.


    ¡°The Void Immortal Sword Sect is making a move. Finish this quickly," an old voice sounded.


    Xu Qingsong put away the talisman, nced at the Heaven Profound Mirror, and then looked at Fang Chen with a grim expression.


    ¡°Stop this nonsense,¡± Xu Qingsong shouted sharply, swinging his sleeve forcefully.


    A strike from the Divine Whip seemed toe from the void,shing toward Fang Chen.


    This time, the aura of the Divine Whip was several times stronger than before. Even a cultivator in the Dao Union Realm would have to take this attack seriously.


    Fang Chen, who had been arguing with himself, suddenly fell silent.


    ¡°It seems this boy is in some trouble. Let¡¯s unite against the external threat first, then we can argue among ourselvester, shall we?¡±


    This proposal seemed to gain everyone¡¯s agreement.


    Immediately, an aurapletely different from spiritual power swept out from Fang Chen''s body.


    At that moment, he seemed to be enveloped in a blinding white light. The Divine Whip disintegrated upon contact with the light, dissipating into nothingness.


    Xu Qingsong''s face showed a look of astonishment. Before he could react, Fang Chen appeared in front of him in an instant.


    ¡°Teleportation!?¡±


    ¡°Is the restriction of the Immortal Dynasty Manor ineffective against him?!¡±


    Everyone was slightly shocked.


    The restriction of the Immortal Dynasty Manor was personally set up by a cultivator in the Dao Union Realm. Only those whose strength surpassed the Dao Union Realm could ignore its existence!


    ¡°You¡­¡±


    ¡°Who the hell are you calling ''you''?!¡±


    Fang Chen pped Xu Qingsong across the face with a backhanded p.


    <em>Crack!</em>


    Everyone seemed to hear the sound of bones breaking, and Xu Qingsong spun through the air before crashing down.


    When hended, the crowd let out a gasp.


    Xu Qingsong''s once handsome face was now mostly caved in, with one eye popped out of its socket. Furthermore, hey on the ground, gasping for breath, with blood pouring from his seven orifices.


    His spiritual power was inplete disarray.


    It was clearly a sign of severe external and internal injuries. Unsurprisingly, he had lost his ability to fight.


    With just one p, he reduced a peak Fusion Realm cultivator to such a state?


    As everyone thought Fang Chen was about to finish Xu Qingsong off and eliminate any future threat, Fang Chen unexpectedly walked toward the nearest cultivator and pped him across the face as well.


    It was a Nascent Soul cultivator who was only here to watch themotion. However, before he could even react, he got pped to the ground.


    ¡°Hahaha, hahaha...¡±


    Fang Chenughed, his smile was sinister. One by one, he pped every nearby cultivator to the ground.


    Among them were Golden Core Realm cultivators, Nascent Soul Realm cultivators, and even some in the Middle Three Realms.


    ¡°He¡¯s gone mad!¡± screamed someone, feeling inexplicable terror. ¡°Run!¡±


    ¡°Run? Where the hell do you want to go?! Today I¡¯m going to have a good fight!¡±


    "Fang Chen" gave everyone a serious look and then lightly snapped his fingers. Suddenly, lightning and thunder filled the sky. Then, a cage of thunder descended from the sky, with a loud boom, enveloping the Immortal Dynasty Manor!


    Su Mo and Elder Chen saw this and realized that if they didn¡¯t intervene, the younger generation of the Immortal Dynasty Manor would be in grave danger.


    Elder Chen was the first to transform into a streak of light, appearing not far from Fang Chen. He sped his hands in respect and said, ¡°Which esteemed ancestor from the Incense Sect do I have the honor of addressing? I am from the Heavenly King Zhen Manor...¡±


    Before he could finish speaking, Elder Chen suddenly felt dizzy, a sharp pain erupt on his face, and he was sent flying.


    Fang Chen spat. ¡°I said I don''t know anything about the Incense Sect! Stop bringing up that crap in front of me!¡±


    Grinning wickedly, he walked toward Su Mo.


    The surroundings fell deathly silent. Gai Hong and the others gasped at the sight of Elder Chen''s state, their eyes filled with rare fear.


    <em>A Dao Union Realm cultivator was pped away just like that?!</em>


    Su Mo looked at Fang Chen in shock. ¡°I... I have no quarrel with you.¡±


    Then, he lost sight of Fang Chen and felt a sharp pain on his face, and he too was sent flying.


    ¡°It¡¯s over...¡±


    The surrounding cultivators wore expressions of terror.


    The two strongest cultivators had been beaten up without any hesitation and their fate would surely be the same!


    Gai Hong, seeing that Fang Chen had moved on to someone else and hadn''te their way, breathed a sigh of relief and quickly whispered to the people around him, ¡°Find a way to escape!¡±


    Then, he noticed something was off. He stiffened as he turned around to see Fang Chen staring at him with a wicked smile.


    ¡°What did you just say? Trying to escape?¡±


    ¡°I...¡± Gai Hong forced a weak smile. ¡°Please¡­ Please hit me lightly...¡±

 Chapter 527: Its Easy to Invite Gods, But Its Hard to Send Them Away

    <h4>Chapter 527: It''s Easy to Invite Gods, But It''s Hard to Send Them Away</h4>


    With a loud crash and the heavy thud of something hitting the ground, the eldest son of the Heavenly King Zhen Manor, the Giant Antler Empire''s emperor, and an Immortal Seedling at the peak of the Fusion Realm, Gai Hong, was mmed to the ground.


    Gai Hong''s face contorted as blood poured right out of his seven orifices. Fortunately, he had a more solid foundation than Xu Qingsong, so he fared a little better.


    Following him, numerous figures fell from the cloud tform, crashing near Gai Hong one after another.


    They were all prodigies from various Immortal Manors, including Gai Yunnuo.


    They endured the pain on their swollen faces, forcing their eyes open to see Fang Chen already leaving the cloud tform and heading toward other cultivators.


    With each step, he seemed to arrive instantly before another person. It didn''t matter what the cultivation of the person he appeared next to was; that white light enveloping him neutralized all their techniques.


    It was as if spiritual energy became as fragile as tofu before this misty white light.


    Fang Chen seemed to have transformed into an invincible war god. The long sword in his hand was merely for show; his bare hand became the primary weapon.


    Regardless of the level of the cultivator, one p was enough to take them down.


    In an instant, another hundred cultivators from different backgrounds suffered the same fate, their faces twisted like Gai Hong and the others.


    The Heaven Profound Mirror dutifully transmitted the scene everywhere, and for a moment, cultivators across various regions fell into silence.


    Su Mo touched his own face as he tried to calm himself down. He turned to look at the elder from Heavenly King Zhen''s Manor and asked, "Daoist Chen, what do you think?"


    The elder from Heavenly King Zhen''s manor didn''t respond immediately. He first nced at Gai Hong and the others. He noticed that, although they had been pped, they weren''t in any mortal danger, allowing him to let out a sigh of relief.


    He silently looked at the figure shrouded in white light and mumbled, ¡°He must be an Incense Sect cultivator using Divine Descent. I¡¯ve heard that some Incense Sect cultivators are not quite sane. Although they possess immense power, they might all be mad.¡±


    ¡°Is the Incense Sect¡¯s Divine Descent truly so miraculous? This boy¡¯s actual cultivation is only at the early Foundation Building Realm...¡± Su Mo murmured.


    ¡°The Divine Descents I know of are nowhere near this terrifying; elevating cultivation by one great realm would already be remarkable. But this boy¡¯s means far surpass ours."


    Old Chen¡¯s gaze was solemn: ¡°I suspect there¡¯s a First Rate Sect Leader behind him.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no doubt about it.¡± Su Mo suddenly took out amunication talisman. ncing at it, he showed a conflicted look. ¡°The Deste Academy has sent a message, advising us not to interfere in this matter and to avoid further conflict with this boy.¡±


    <i>The Deste Academy!</i>


    Old Chen¡¯s eyes slightly widened. The Deste Academy could, to some extent, represent the imperial family of the Central Continent Empire.


    The words of the Deste Academy essentially carried the authority of the imperial family.


    For the imperial family to take such a stance further confirmed his suspicions. There was definitely a First Rate Sect Leader taking part in the matter!


    ¡°It seems... someone from the Incense Sect has sessfully transitioned to a Loose Immortal. Who knows if this will be good or bad for Central Continent Empire.¡±


    Su Mo sighed softly. ¡°It¡¯s just a minor incident, yet it ended up involving a First Rate Sect Leader. You and I got pped for nothing.¡±


    Old Chen nodded silently.


    However, considering that the p might have been a ''gift'' from a Patriarch, they both felt a bit better about it.


    In a pavilion, Zhao Kaihe stood rigidly, surrounded by Nascent Soul peers who were already down on the ground. Even the Golden Core celestial soldiers were not spared, each having received a p.


    Zhao Kaihe forced a smile. ¡°I... I was just here drinking tea and enjoying the scenery. I have no quarrel with you...¡±


    Fang Chen pped Zhao Kaihe down before moving to another person.


    In a short period, hundreds of cultivators from various backgrounds had been pped to the ground.


    Fortunately, though painful, their lives were not in danger. They watched the ''busy'' figure with conflicted looks.


    ¡°Is he nning to... p every cultivator in Immortal Dynasty Manor today?¡± an Immortal Seedling muttered, holding his swollen cheek.


    Yang Qing from Nine Deer Valley, Fang Ze from Jade Toad Pce, Ding Wan from White Moon Ind, and dozens of other Immortal Candidates were either rubbing their cheeks or using spiritual energy to alleviate the pain.


    Yang Qing sighed. "I must be really unlucky to havee to the Immortal Dynasty Manor today. If Ie to such a spectacle again, I¡¯ll consider myself a dog.¡±


    ncing in the direction of Gai Hong and the others, Fang Ze mumbled to himself, ¡°Thankfully, he¡¯s treating everyone equally. It''s not just us losing face today, even the seniors....¡±


    The others exchanged looks, feeling a bit better.


    Indeed, Fang Chen was treating everyone equally. Not only were they beaten, but Gai Hong and the others weren¡¯t spared either.


    Even Su Mo, the Dao Union Realm elder of the Immortal Dynasty Manor, had been pped.


    Since even cultivators at the Middle to Upper Three Realms were being pped too, these Golden Core Realm Immortal Seedlings didn''t find it that humiliating to be pped too.


    Not to mention that, in a few years, the incident would be forgotten anyway.


    As time passed, quite a few cultivators became unwilling to be humiliated by Fang Chen and attempted to break through the lightning cage. However, they were electrocuted before even reaching the boundary a hundred feet away. They were charred ck as the smell of burning flesh filled the air.


    Finally, ¡®Fang Chen¡¯ appeared in front of a delicate figure, raising his hand to p her.


    ¡°Lord, you can hit me. I don¡¯t me you.¡± Fairy Yu looked directly at Fang Chen and muttered, ¡°You are under someone else¡¯s control now... None of this is your fault.¡±


    ¡°You talk as if you know me well!¡± responded Fang Chen, preparing to strike.


    However, suddenly Fang Chen''s hand stopped mid-air, unable to move.


    It seemed some invisible force was restraining him.


    ''Fang Chen¡¯ struggled visibly, his expression suddenly turning fierce and grim. He chuckled darkly, "It''s easy to invite gods but hard to send them away! You invited us, and now you think you can kick us away just because you feel like it? In your dreams!"


    Fairy Yu eximed in surprise, "My Lord, can you hear me speaking?"


    Fairy Yi noticed Fang Chen''s pupils fluctuating. They alternated between beingpletely ck and grey-white. Also, golden veins would appear from time to time. asionally, they shimmered with eerie blue light.


    A blotchy bloodstain faintly appeared on his wrist, as if trying to flow onto the hilt of Little Sword. However, it quickly returned to his body.


    A sinister smile crept onto ''Fang Chen''s¡¯ face as he raised his hand to deliver a p.


    Fairy Yu couldn''t hide her disappointment. She knew Fang Chen had just struggled to resist, but had failed to regain his senses. She didn''t dodge or evade, gazing gently at him as if unconcerned about what was about to happen.


    Just as the p was about tond on her face, a surge of energy swooped in, swiftly carrying Fairy Yu back a hundred feet.


    Fairy Yu looked stunned, finding herself seated at a street-side tea stall. Across from her sat an elderly man with white hair, calmly savoring his tea.


    Fang Chen appeared at the tea stall in the blink of an eye and stared the old man down ominously. "You old rascal!"


    Witnessing what had happened, everyone standing around was deeply shocked. Someone actually had the guts to provoke this madman even though he had pped even experts at the Dao Union Realm!


    Su Mo and Elder Chen exchanged looks. "Who is this?!"


    They couldn''t help but simultaneously feel a strange feeling stirring in their hearts as they felt they had seen the old man somewhere before. He felt strangely familiar.

 Chapter 528: Possessed?

    <h4>Chapter 528: Possessed?</h4>


    The old man didn''t even look at Fang Chen. He calmly said, "This is not your physical body. Would you all like to leave?"


    Fang Chen sneered coldly and raised his hand to p the old man. "Old fool! You¡¯re tired of living!"


    Surprisingly, the p didn''tnd on the old man''s face.


    The old man had disappeared.


    When he appeared again, he was standing quietly behind Fang Chen. The old man''s brows were slightly furrowed, seemingly pensive.


    "Trash," said Fang Chen, his voice different from before, bing deep and domineering.


    This insult was clearly not directed to the old man or anyone present.


    "You seem to be speaking some sense, would you like to leave?" The old man spoke calmly.


    Fang Chen turned around and looked at the old man. The wicked smile on his face had disappeared, reced by an imposing aura.


    Fang Chen''s lips curled upwards slightly. "I''ve just managed toe back to life, and you want me to die again just because you say so?"


    "You came back to life?" The old man shook his head softly "You can''t even be considered remnants of a soul. You¡¯re a kind of evil creature born with intelligence, thinking yourself to be some kind of deity. Those are merely foolish delusions of yours."


    The onlookers were shocked.


    <i>An evil creature?!</i>


    This white-bearded old man seemed to be aware of the fate of the person speaking.


    Su Mu and Elder Chen exchanged looks of astonishment. "Not Divine Descent, but possession?"


    They had encountered many evil beings before, but such a profoundly malevolent entity was unprecedented for them.


    "If indeed he''s been possessed, it can only mean that the source of this evil is extremely formidable, at least on the level of an Ancestor," whispered Elder Chen.


    "This fellow does seem familiar, but I can''t recall where I might have seen him. Among the Ascendants of this world, there doesn''t seem to be anyone like him," murmured Su Mo, shaking his head softly.


    Though uncertain of the old man''s origins, they spected silently as to why he remained untouched thus far. It surely indicated that he was at least an ascendant.


    Upon hearing himself referred to as an evil entity, something within Fang Chen seemed to boil over uncontrobly.


    A glimmer of darkness shed in Fang Chen''s eyes, as if echoing a dragon''s roar resonating through the heavens."You insignificant ants. All of you are seeking death!"


    A terrifying illusion of a real dragon surged out from within Fang Chen, exuding an aura that made all those present shiver from the depths of their souls.


    Seeing this, the old man sighed softly then fell silent for a moment. In the end, he only uttered a singlemand.


    "Stop!"


    As that word fell, the illusion of that colossal dragon vanished.


    In the next moment, the old man''s palm was already pressed against Fang Chen''s forehead. The white light emanating from Fang Chen seemed powerless against the old man. Strangely, from within the old man, a simr white light surged forth.


    A flicker of astonishment shed across Fang Chen''s eyes before he waspletely enveloped by the white light emanating from the old man.


    "He... he''s being suppressed!?"


    "Could this elder be an Ascendant after all...?"


    The onlookers were left stunned, exchanging hushed murmurs in disbelief.


    However, the white light enveloping the two figures made it difficult for the onlookers to make out anything.


    One hourter.


    The thunderous cage surrounding them began to steadily disintegrate, eliciting looks of relief and excitement among the onlookers. It was a clear sign that the madman had finally been subdued.


    "Let''s get out of here!"


    Someone immediately tried to flee the scene but was stopped by another.


    "Why leave now? We''re no longer in danger. We must see what bes of this. I refuse to leave without knowing the oue."


    "True, did we endure that p for nothing?"


    In the end, few practitioners left; most chose to stay and witness the oue.


    Fairy Yu looked somewhat nervous. She suspected the old man was suppressing something within her lord, but she didn''t know if it would affect him.


    As minutes turned into hours... three days passed. The white light not only showed no signs of weakening but intensified,pletely submerging the two figures beneath it. Their blurry outlines could no longer be seen.


    "Why haven''t our injuries healed after three days? Weren''t these just superficial wounds?" someone asked, touching their cheek with a puzzled expression.


    For three full days, despite their efforts to use spiritual energy to heal their cheeks, the injuries on their faces remained unchanged. What was there three days ago looked exactly the same after three days.


    While male practitioners could tolerate it to some extent, many female practitioners had also been pped... Gai Yunuo was one of them.


    Female cultivators naturally had extremely high demands for their appearance, how could they allow themselves to maintain an appearance like that?


    Gai Yunuo stared fixedly at the white light, her face grim.


    Sensing that Gai Yunuo was upset, Gai Hong tried to console and reassure her, "Junior sister, although this injury is peculiar, I believe even if it can''t recover in the short term, it won''t persist for too long. You don''t need to worry too much."


    "I must repay him for this p," Gai Yunuo said coldly, "Regardless of whether it was the intention of this young man or not, or whether he''s influenced by evil or a powerful benefactor, I will give it back to him."


    A bitter smile appeared on Gai Hong''s face. There were so many mysteries surrounding the man, coupled with the unidentified powerful figure who seemed like an Ascendant interfering in the matter. Everything indicated that the matter was extraordinary, and at least not something they could handle at their level.


    Continuing to be entangled in this would likely bring trouble upon themselves. However, Gai Hong refrained from advising any further at that moment; he understood Yunuo''s temperament. He would wait until her facial injuries healed before attempting to persuade her.


    Xu Qingsong stared intently at where Fang Chen was. "It''s been a full three days. Why won''t this wrap up already?"


    During these three days, the Great Expansion Dao Gate had repeatedly urged him to leave the Immortal Dynasty Manor as soon as possible. After all, the sword cultivators from the Void Immortal Sword Sect would arrive soon.


    However, he did not leave.


    He still wanted to see if he could seize an opportunity to reim the Twilight Eye. With him missing an eye, the importance of the Twilight Eye to him was beyond measure.


    The crowd had been anticipating a resolution for quite some time, feeling that it woulde sooner rather thanter. In the midst of their wait with theirplex emotions, day by day passed.


    Xu Qingsong had contemted leaving more than once, but he couldn''t bear to do so. He always felt that a result would emerge the next moment.


    Unbeknownst to them, half a month had gone by.


    And finally, on one fine day, the white light finally dissipated, revealing a figure lying on the ground, their life or death uncertain.


    "My lord!"


    Fairy Yu hurried forward and embraced the figure.


    The person lying on the ground was indeed Fang Chen.


    As for the old man, he had long disappeared without a trace.


    Su Mo and the others sighed with emotion. The old man coulde and go without a trace, beyond even their detection as Dao Union Realm cultivators. Only an Ascendant could achieve such a feat. "As expected of an Ascendant."


    "Has this guy recovered?"


    "Will he stand up and p us again?"


    The people around looked at Fang Chen with a hint of fear in their eyes, not daring to approach and investigate.


    Xu Qingsong''s face lit up with joy. "Fortune favors me!"


    He was certain that Fang Chen was now powerless to retaliate and unlikely to employ the same mysterious methods as before. This was his golden opportunity!


    At that moment, countless sword lights tore through the sky, like meteors streaking across the heavens. The terrifying and majestic sword intent, akin to an emperor''s dominion, enveloped the Immortal Dynasty Manor.


    Instinctively, everyone looked up and saw numerous figures standing in the sky, disregarding thews of the Immortal Dynasty Manor. Their cold sword intent pierced everyone¡¯s skin like icy winds.


    "The sword cultivators of the Void Immortal Sword Sect... have arrived..."

 Chapter 529: Anyone Passing By Gets a Beating

    <h4>Chapter 529: Anyone Passing By Gets a Beating</h4>


    Someone''s voice echoed like thunder across the heavens and earth. "Xu Qingsong from the Great Expansion Dao Gate,e up here and meet your death!"


    Xu Qingsong''s face turned extremely grim. "We from the Great Expansion Dao Gate have no grievances with you from the Void Immortal Sword Sect. Why have youe looking for trouble?"


    "You dared to vite the agreement between Heavenly King Zhen and the Void Immortal Sword Sect. You should rightfully fear death. What''s the point of arguing now? If you don''te up, we''lle down," the voice retorted.


    Xu Qingsong''s eyes flickered. "It was someone else who broke the rules, not me."


    "Looks like he''s going to y the rogue," someonemented.


    "Then let''s not waste our words then."


    Several figures transformed into swords and instantly surrounded Xu Qingsong. There were men and women alike, their expressions seemed smiling yet not. They emanated a strong sword intent. Even standing there, they gave off an extremely dangerous vibe, like ancient fierce beasts.


    Each of them was in the Fusion Realm. While not necessarily at the peak of the Fusion Realm, the abilities of Fusion Realm sword cultivators were something even peak Fusion Realm Immortal Seedlings had to be wary of!


    Xu Qingsong''s eyes darkened, tinged with a hint of dread. "Are you all trying to find an excuse to break the rules and assist your sect¡¯s abandoned disciple?"


    "This brat still wants to smear our name. We sword cultivators have never feared such despicable tactics. You seem to be able to talk a lot of shit now. Let¡¯s see if it stays that wayter," said one of them, chuckling.


    He raised his hand to strike at Xu Qingsong.


    The terrifying sword intent set off rm bells in Xu Qingsong''s mind. He retaliated with a powerful strike of his Divine Whip.


    Both of their techniques were extraordinary, causing terrifying shockwaves to erupt immediately, sweeping out like a gale in all directions.


    Before their moves could sh, another wave of sword intent attacked Xu Qingsong, followed by a third, a fourth....


    Being assaulted from every direction, Xu Qingsong''s very soul trembled. "You shameless lot!"


    He only managed to let out a loud curse before he was overwhelmed by several subsequent sword intents.


    He suffered several horrifying wounds that cut deep enough to expose his bone. If not for his ample spiritual energy, these strikes would have torn him apart!


    "Attack together! Unless he kneels down and begs for mercy, we won''t stop!"


    With a resounding shout, several figures swarmed towards him.


    Onlookers watched in dismay as Xu Qingsong, once an Immortal Seedling, was battered mercilessly by several sword cultivators. He continued to umte fresh sword wounds with each passing moment.


    Meanwhile, other sword cultivators were not idle either.


    Someone looked toward the figure from the Immortal Giant Sect and sneered, "Lu Gang, remember a few years ago you were gossiping behind my back, right? Well, here we are today, let''s settle this!"


    With that, the person attacked directly, shing a sword toward Lu Gang. Lu Gang defended himself awkwardly while shouting in confusion, "When did I ever speak ill of you!?"


    "If I say you did, then you did! Cut the crap!"


    "Daoist Qian, what a coincidence to see you here today! I remember your grandfather stole a spiritual herb from my grandfather. Let''s settle this score today!"


    "Daoist Zhou, you dare show up in front of me again? Didn''t I say every time I see you, I''ll fight you? Bring it on!"


    "Brother Zhao, long time no see. I feel like swinging my sword today. Do you mind if I take a few swings at you?"


    "Sister Liu, what brings you here today? Oh? Is that a disciple of yours? Perfect, let''s fight!"


    The onlookers were stunned as they watched the sword cultivators go berserk, picking fights left and right. In a matter of moments, hundreds of new battlefields emerged, except for where Xu Qingsong was.


    The targeted cultivators had no way to defend themselves. They knew the cultivators were truly furious and had no intention of reasoning with anyone.


    Just moments ago, someone saw a stray dog passing by get pped twice, howling in distress before fleeing.


    A sword cultivator confronted Gai Hong. "Gai Hong, instead of staying in your Giant Antler Empire, why did youe running back to the Central Continent Empire? Well, don''t just stand there idle, let''s have a bout today!"


    Though the opponent was only in the mid-stage Fusion Realm, Gai Hong had no choice but to reluctantly ept the challenge. He knew that if he didn''t fight, he wouldn''t be able to leave.


    Gai Yunuo felt a bit annoyed and was about to speak when a female sword cultivator appeared before her and attacked without any preamble.


    Seeing this, Elder Chen became anxious and instinctively moved to intervene, but was stopped by Su Mo. "If you act, there won''t be any wiggle room for you. Do you really want to escte things between the Heavenly King Zhen Manor and the Void Immortal Sword Sect? These sword cultivators aren''t afraid of esction; the messier it gets, the happier they are."


    Su Mo''s expression was serious.


    Elder Chen was conflicted. In the end, he decided to abandon the idea of intervening. He didn''t want to be the cause of aplete rupture between the Heavenly King Zhen Manor and the Void Immortal Sword Sect.


    Suddenly, Fairy Yu, who was crouched right beside Fang Chen, heard a voice. "Little Yu, why didn''t you listen to me when I asked you to go to the Greenwood Sect?"


    Fairy Yu immediately looked over and was pleasantly surprised. "My lord! Are you alright?"


    Seeing that Fang Chen''s expression had returned to normal and his voice had regained its usual tone, she was overjoyed.


    "Yeah, I''m fine for now," replied Fang Chen, nodding lightly.


    However, in his eyes, there was still a sliver of fear as he looked at the bloodstains on his sword.


    Little Sword''s solemn voice sounded, "Little Chen, don''t do that again in the future. I can suppress them when they''re on me, but if they''re on you, I won''t be able to influence them."


    The voice of the Mirror of the Universe resonated in a rare moment of taking Little Sword''s side. "Brother, what the junior said is right. Let''s refrain from using such sinister methods in the future. You were nearly possessed."


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "I understand. Unless absolutely necessary, I won''t do that again."


    He hadn''t expected the blood of immortals to possess such eerie abilities, containing remnants of the consciousness of those ancient immortals. Just moments ago, it was as if his soul had been trapped in a cage as he witnessed nine vague figures conversing and arguing. However, he had been unable to discern their appearances.


    This indicated that the blood of immortals harbored nine consciousnesses, each possibly belonging to a great being from the Immortal Realm!


    Even Fang Chen''s formidable soul was immobilized by these nine figures, unable to hear or see what was happening in the outside world.


    Fang Chen surveyed his surroundings while asking, "Little Yu, how did I recover just now? Is it rted to that senior?"


    Although he hadn''t been able to see that senior, he had strangely been able to hear his voice clearly.


    Fairy Yu quickly exined what happened. She was very grateful to that senior. "If it weren''t for that senior, I might have never been able to see you again, my lord."


    Fang Chen nodded. "Indeed, that''s true. If you have the chance to meet that senior, you should definitely express your gratitude."


    However, in his heart, Fang Chen wondered about the origin of the old man. The consciousness within the blood of the immortal unquestionably originated from the Immortal Realm. The fact that the old man could easily suppress them indicated that his abilities were likely at the Tribtion Realm, or even the Ascension Realm!


    "My lord, you probably haven''t met my senior brothers and sisters yet, have you? Let me introduce you. That''s Senior Brother Qin Hucheng, the eldest senior brother of our Extreme Sword Peak. And that''s Sister Liu, the eldest sister of the Creation Peak, and there''s also..."


    Fairy Yu was enthusiastic as she introduced them one by one. Fang Chen looked over at each person she introduced, slowly familiarizing himself with many disciples of the Void Immortal Sword Sect.

 Chapter 530: Call Me Grandpa

    <h4>Chapter 530: Call Me Grandpa</h4>


    The Void Immortal Sword Sect had thirty-six peaks. Although the top disciples from all thirty-six peaks didn''te, the thousands of sword cultivators present epassed disciples from every peak, with not a single one absent!


    At present, the Immortal Dynasty Manor''s who hade to provoke Fang Chen were all being beaten up, with Xu Qingsong suffering the worst.


    However, the beaten cultivators weren''t as helpless as they seemed. They simply weren''t willing to fight a bitter battle against the sword cultivators.


    It was well-known that sword cultivators had shorter lifespans than normal cultivators. Why would they be willing to put their lives on the line against those freaks who were bound to die sooner thanter? In the end, trading life for life with a sword cultivator was a big loss.


    This led them to act cautiously and fearfully, whereas, on the side of the sword cultivators, not a single one of them was holding back!


    Xu Qingsong had been beaten up so badly that he was left coughing up one mouthful of blood after the other as hey on the ground.


    Eyes bloodshot, he looked at the group of sword cultivators standing before him. "Enough!"


    "We''ll say when it''s enough. If you don''t want to continue being beaten, you can kneel down and call each of us ''Grandpa'' once. Otherwise, you won''t leave here alive today."


    A sword cultivator grinned maliciously. "Don''t expect anyone from the Great Expansion Dao Gate toe and save you. Our seniors have already gone to pay respects to the mountains of your Great Expansion Dao Gate. They are too busy to bother with you fools!"


    Hearing that, Xu Qingsong paled with shock. He quietly grasped a Transmission Talisman and tried tomunicate with the higher-ups. However, shortly after he took it out, his face turned as white as a sheet of paper.


    The Great Expansion Dao Gate had ryed a message to him, advising him to fend for himself. If he could avoid death, then he shouldn''t seek it.


    Xu Qingsong clenched his teeth and said, "Ie from a noble background as a descendant of the Immortal Seedling, and I am a Fusion Realm cultivator. I may not be famous in the Central Continent, but I have a certain reputation. Asking me to kneel down and call you ''Grandpa'' is an insult to me. A warrior can be killed but not humiliated!"


    Every word Xu Qingsong said was dragged through his clenched teeth, filled with great resolution.


    Qin Hucheng, who had been silent and inactive all along, suddenly smiled coldly. "Then you shall die."


    A terrifying sword intent slowly emanated from the flying sword in his hand.


    Upon sensing the threat of death, Xu Qingsong''s expression turned horrified, and he got cold feet at thest moment. He shouted in despair, "I''ll say it!"


    "Everyone, Xu Qingsong of the Great Expansion Dao Gate is about to call us ''Grandpa''. Stop whatever you''re doing and have a look."


    Qin Hucheng''s lips curved slightly upwards as his voice resounded throughout the Immortal Dynasty Manor.


    The sword cultivators immediately stopped their actions and turned to look at Xu Qingsong.


    "Phew."


    Everyone breathed a sigh of relief before looking at Xu Qingsong with considerable annoyance.


    <i>If it weren''t for that bastard, why would these lunatics from the Void Immortal Sect havee all the way to the Immortal Dynasty Manor! How else would we have been dragged into this mess with these lunatics!</i>


    "Hurry up and start calling. It doesn''t matter which one you start with, have your pick." Qin Hucheng chuckled. "We''ve brought thousands of people from the Void Immortal Sword Sect, and you''ll have to call each and every one of us ''Grandpa.''"


    Xu Qingsong''s face turned ashen. After a long silence, he looked at one of the sword cultivators and said hoarsely, "Grandpa."


    "Hey! Good grandson!"


    The cultivatorughed heartily, turning to the others and saying, "Xu Qingsong of the Great Expansion Dao Gate called me ''Grandpa''. I''m just a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator! <i>Hahaha!</i> How amusing!"


    Xu Qingsong''s face became even more unpleasant at these words.


    Gai Hong and the others exchanged looks, suddenly revealing a hint of pity in their eyes toward Xu Qingsong. They silently swore to themselves that they would avoid provoking the sword cultivators of the Void Immortal Sword Sect unless absolutely necessary.


    Killing him was one thing, but these guys were deliberately humiliating him. This was a clear p to the face of the Great Expansion Dao Gate. They didn''t care about stirring trouble at all!


    Encountering such a predicament was indeed quite troublesome. Under the threat of death, Xu Qingsong endured unprecedented humiliation, calling out "Grandpa" over and over again. By the end, he was numb.


    After the time took for a stick of incense to burn passed, Xu Qingsong looked toward Qin Hucheng and asked in a hoarse voice, "I am done. Can I go now?"


    "You''ve finished?." Qin Hucheng pointed to Fairy Yu and Fang Chen. "But you haven''t called these two yet."


    "Them?!" Xu Qingsong was furious. "They are not even sword cultivators of the Void Immortal Sword Sect."


    "Whether they are or not is not your decision to make. I told you to address them as such, so you better do it. If you don''t, I''ll kill you. It''s your choice," Qin Hucheng said indifferently.


    Xu Qingsong looked at Fang Chen, his eyes filled with deep resentment. "Grandpa."


    Fang Chen smiled and nodded.


    Fairy Yu sternly demanded, "Call me Grandma!"


    "Grandma!" Xu Qingsong eximed.


    With that said, Xu Qingsong got up and left straight away.


    Qin Hucheng and hispanions did not intervene. As Xu Qingsong was about to disappear, someone whispered quietly, "Now that he''s done, should we really honor our promise, or do we just kill him?"


    Watching Xu Qingsong''s figure fade away, Qin Hucheng suddenly smiled, "Let''s hold off on killing him for now. After our seniors finish paying respects at the Great Expansion Dao Gate today, we''ll know how to deal with the disciples of the Great Expansion Dao Gate in the future."


    Gai Hong slowly spoke up. "Fellow Cultivator Qin, can we call it a day?"


    "You had enough?" Qin Hucheng''s mouth curled slightly. "Junior brothers and junior sisters, have you had enough?"


    "Not yet!"


    Qin Hucheng looked at Gai Hong and chuckled. "We rarely make such a trip. Don''t spoil our mood, let''s continue."


    Lu Gang clenched his fists. "Damn it, these lunatics! I''ll take them on!"


    As a formidable cultivator of the Immortal Giant Sect, he held a high status and was different from ordinary disciples. However, today, he had been insulted without reason several times! The anger in his heart was hard to contain.


    Gai Hong suddenly stepped back. "Fellow Cultivator Qin, Fellow Cultivator Lu just said he''s ready to take you all on."


    Lu Gang hesitated for a moment before instinctively looking at Gai Hong and the others. He quickly noticed that everyone had taken a step back, leaving him feeling abandoned.


    Qin Hucheng pointed at Lu Gang. "Alright,e and fight me."


    "Enough with your bullying. You''re a sword cultivator at the peak of the Fusion Realm. What''s there for me to fight with you?" Lu Gang said bitterly, on the verge of despair. "This time, your Void Immortal Sword Sect clearly gained the upper hand. Demoness Yu didn''t even die, but my Giant Immortal Sect lost an Immortal Seedling. What more do you want?"


    Qin Hucheng spoke lightly. "Whether we gained anything or not, that''s for us to decide. In our view, we''ve suffered a great loss. As our elders have always taught us, if we''ve suffered a loss, we must retaliate a hundredfold and thousandfold to vent our grievances; otherwise, our sword intent will be hard to achieve."


    With that, he casually swung his sword, and a terrifying sword intent cut across Lu Gang''s head. Lu Gang instinctively touched it and felt his bare scalp.


    Qin Hucheng smirked slightly. "Thatst strike was just a warm-up. The main course ising next."


    A few momentster, chaos erupted in the Immortal Dynasty Manor. Many thought the situation had ended, but the madmen from the Void Immortal Sword Sect had no intention of letting them leave easily. Several hourster, cries of agony filled the Immortal Dynasty Manor. Except for a few like Su Mo, everyone had received a certain degree of injury.


    It wasn''t until the Heaven Profound Mirror suddenly disyed something that everyone stopped.


    On the Heaven Profound Mirror, a misty immortal mountain appeared, along with a figure as imposing as a mountain standing with his hands sped behind his back. Only a third of his profile was visible. However, as he toward the immortal mountain, he exuded an unparalleled aura, as if he was a transcendent immortal who had descended.


    Many sword cultivators frowned deeply. "Isn''t that the Sect Master? He''s showing off again."

 Chapter 531: Questioning the Sword

    <h4>Chapter 531: Questioning the Sword</h4>


    A strange expression appeared on Fairy Yu''s face. "Lord, that is our Sect Master."


    Fang Chen curiously looked at the image in the Heaven Profound Mirror. "What''s his cultivation?"


    "He''s rumored to be at the peak of the Dao Union Realm," Fairy Yu replied thoughtfully.


    <i>Peak of the Dao Union Realm?</i>


    Fang Chen instinctively nced over at Su Mo and Elder Chen; these two also seemed to be at the peak of the Dao Union Realm.


    Fang Chen gradually came to an understanding regarding the Central Continent Empire''s cultivation situation. It seemed that Dao Union cultivators were the strongest experts that could be encountered at the Central Continent Empire.


    That was the first realm of the Three Upper Realms.


    Clearly, experts beyond the Dao Union Realm didn''t concern themselves with worldly affairs and would only appear if significant events were underway.


    The figure in the Heaven Profound Mirror raised his hand slightly, and the nearby immortal mountains erupted with a thunderous roar. Afterward, several immortal mountains copsed with a loud crash, instantly leveled!


    The figure in the Mirror spoke, his voice faint. "The Void Immortal Sword Sect hase to pay its respects."


    <i>That''s how the Void Immortal Sword Sect pays its respects? By leveling several immortal mountains?</i>


    The onlookers were shocked and speechless. It had to be known that the image projected in the Heaven Profound Mirror belonged to the Great Expansion Dao Gate''s main site. Those immortal mountains had been full of spiritual springs and veins. For them to be destroyed like that was a huge loss!


    In the image, over a dozen elder Daoists soared into the sky, their expressions either furious or grim. "You have gone too far!"


    Then, countless sword lights shot past the figure''s back, directly toward the group of elder Daoists. The owners of these sword lights were all at the Dao Union Realm and every single one of them was a true sword cultivator!


    The Void Immortal Sword Sect was too fast, and it seemed that the Great Expansion Dao Gate couldn''t react in time. Although the dozen or so old Daoists were also Dao Union Realm experts, they were no match for the dozens of Dao Union Realm sword cultivators. Within just three to five moves, they were forced into a rapid retreat.


    From beginning to end, the figure covered in mist never revealed his true face; the onlookers could only see one-third of his profile. Many people secretly spected about what the Sect Master of the Void Immortal Sword Sect looked like.


    "Little Yu, your Sect Master has an extraordinary presence and the demeanor of a strong expert," Fang Chen remarked.


    Fairy Yu''s expression grew even more peculiar. She whispered, "This is one of the Sect Master''s quirks. ording to the senior brothers and sisters, apart from the Thirty-Six Peak Masters, ordinary elders and disciples have never seen the Sect Master''s true face."


    Fang Chen asked in surprise. "Why is that?"


    Fairy Yu shook her head lightly. "I don''t know, but some say the Sect Master once imed to turn his back on all beings to cultivate the aura of a strong expert, using this to prepare for a smooth passage through the thunder tribtion and advance to the Tribtion Realm."


    Fang Chen looked at the Heaven Profound Mirror. "Turn his back on all beings? Cultivate the aura of a strong expert?"


    <i>If those rumors are true, then the Sect Master deliberately showed one-third of his profile?</i>


    Fang Chen instinctively nced at the nearby sword cultivators and noticed that they had that same strange expression simr to Fairy Yu.


    <i>No wonder.... </i>


    The battle quickly ended; the group of old Daoists fled back to the Great Expansion Dao Gate inplete defeat.


    Immediately afterward, the Great Expansion Dao Gate activated their mountain-protecting formation, surrounding their headquarters like an imprable fortress. The group of sword cultivators did not give up, striking the protective formation again and again, causing ripples to spread across it.


    Some sword cultivators shouted excitedly and fervently as they shed. After an entire hour of this, the Sect Master of the Void Immortal Sword Sect, still facing away and showing only one-third of his profile, finally spoke. "Today''s visit ends here. We will return tomorrow."


    He paused and then continued in a deep voice, "Disciples of the Void Immortal Sword Sect, hear my order: from now on, if you see a member of the Great Expansion Dao Gate outside, challenge them to a sword duel."


    "Challenge them to a sword duel?!"


    Cultivators all over the Central Continent Empire revealed expressions full of endless shock.


    To the disciples of the Void Immortal Sword sect, there could only be two possible oues when challenging others to a sword duel. Either they would die, or their opponent would die. A duel meant a life-or-death battle.


    As the words faded, the scene within the Heaven Profound Mirror gradually disappeared, and it returned to being an ordinary bronze mirror.


    A faint smile appeared on Qin Hucheng''s face as he looked at those around him. "Did you all hear that? If you see a cultivator from the Great Expansion Dao Gate, challenge them to a sword duel."


    "Hahaha! Finally, we get to challenge them to sword duels again. I''ve been holding back for years!"


    The group of sword cultivators was filled with excitement.


    "Daoist Qin, my father has already stated that if they can walk out of the Immortal Dynasty Manor today, the Heavenly King Zhen Pce will no longer pursue them.¡± Gai Hong spoke slowly, pointing at Fang Chen and Fairy Yu. "Moreover, we haven''t gained anything today. Before you all arrived, most of us were pped in the face. Even if you are angry, you should have vented it by now. Can we let this matter end here?"


    Qin Hucheng responded tly, a hint of an unnatural expression shing across his face, "You guys were pped, why haven''t we heard about that?"


    Seeing his expression, Gai Hong and the others were infuriated.


    These guys clearly knew about it all along but pretended not to!


    "Senior Brother Qin, why don''t we let it go? They seem quite frightened. We can go elsewhere to find Daoists from the Great Expansion Dao Gate," someone suggested.


    Qing Hucheng pondered for a while before agreeing, "That might be for the best."


    Before leaving, he nodded slightly at Fang Chen and Fairy Yu but did not approach. This seemed to be a tacit understanding among the sword cultivators of the Void Immortal Sword Sect.


    The countless meteor-like sword lights had left almost as fast as they came, departing gracefully.


    Seeing them leave, everyone breathed a sigh of relief. With these rogues gone, they no longer had to endure oppression.


    "Let''s leave as well," Fang Chen said as he slowly stood up.


    Aside from some soreness, Fang Chen felt no other difort.


    Seeing that the two were about to leave, the group of cultivators merely looked on with strange expressions, not daring to step forward and stop them. Although the sword cultivators were strong, they stillcked some firepowerpared to the person they had just witnessed. They were afraid that Fang Chen might use those bizarre methods again, which even Dao Union Realm cultivators couldn''t withstand, let alone them.


    However, Gai Hong suddenly shed forward, transforming into a stream of light that blocked their path. "Wait a moment,"


    "What? Are you nning to break the rules?" Fang Chen said tly.


    "Don''t misunderstand," Gai Hong replied, cautiously observing Fang Chen.


    Seeing that Fang Chen showed no signs of going crazy, he breathed a sigh of relief and introduced himself, "I am Gai Hong. Gai Wu''s elder brother."


    "Well met," Fang Chen responded indifferently.


    Fairy Yu''s eyes showed a hint of cold mockery. "So you are Gai Wu''s elder brother."


    Gai Hong said with a smile, "My third brother is indeed somewhat mischievous. As his elder brother, I am well aware of this. Furthermore, the spection of this Daoist friend here is quite likely; the Blood Spirit Sect seems to have a hand in this. The Heavenly King Zhen Pce is already thoroughly investigating this matter, and I believe someone from the Void Immortal Sword Sect will also be responsible for looking into it."


    He continued, "Once the two of you leave the Immortal Dynasty Manor, the string of karma between you and the Heavenly King Zhen Pce will be resolved. I hope you can forgive us."


    "Resolved?" Fang Chenughed. "This matter caused Little Yu''s spiritual power to flow in reverse, forming the Inverse Immortal Demonic Embryo. The string of karma between us and your third brother is too great. Unless he dies, this matter cannot be resolved."


    The onlookers were taken aback.


    Even after all of this, he was still not willing to settle the matter easily!

 Chapter 532: The True Use of the Vast Origin Fruit

    <h4>Chapter 532: The True Use of the Vast Origin Fruit </h4>


    Gai Yunuo walked over, staring coldly at Fang Chen, her eyes full of fury. "Big Brother, why be so polite to them? If they want to kill our third brother, let¡¯s see if they have the means to do it. Do they think that the experts of Heavenly King Zhen''s Manor are all dead?"


    ncing at Gai Hong and Gai Yunuo, Fairy Yu suddenly chuckled. She said to Fang Chen, "Young Master, look at these two. They are so pitiful. They haven''t recovered from the beating you gave them earlier; their mouths are crooked, and their eyes are nted."


    Her words were like a sharp knife, stabbing deeply into Gai Yunuo''s heart.


    <i>This is bad.... </i>Gai Hong thought.


    Sure enough, Gai Yunuo went through the roof, chest heaving.


    Gai Hong quickly stepped forward and ced himself between the two sides. Looking at Gai Yunuo seriously, he said, "Second sister, the injuries on our faces will heal in time. There''s no need to let such minor wounds cloud your judgment."


    Gai Yunuo''s eyes cleared as her reason returned. She took a deep breath and said to Fairy Yu and Fang Chen, "It originally had nothing to do with me or my brother whether Gai Wu lived or died. We dislike him just as much as you do.


    "We never wanted to get dragged into his affairs. But now, I''ve changed my mind. You want to kill him to resolve your grievances? Go ahead and try. Let''s see what you can do. I hope you''re not just bragging and making empty threats."


    With that, Gai Yunuo turned and walked away.


    Gai Hong sighed inwardly and then looked at Fang Chen. "Fellow cultivator, I won''t interfere with Gai Wu''s affairs. If you want to kill him, go ahead. But as my father''s third son, he naturally has many powerful protectors. Killing him won''t be easy."


    After saying that, Gai Hong turned around and hurried to catch up with Gai Yunuo, fearing she might do something irrational in her anger.


    "It seems the three siblings of the Heavenly King Zhen Pce aren''t that harmonious," Fang Chen remarked with a faint smile in his eyes.


    "Young Master, do you really want to find an opportunity to kill Gai Wu? Why not let this matter rest? We can avoid going to the Greenwood Sect and find a secluded ce to live for a while. Heavenly King Zhen Pce has already said they won''t pursue us anymore, so we might have some peace for a while," Fairy Yu said with a hopeful look at Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen replied calmly, "They can say whatever they want. But as long as they can easily track you, you''ll always be in danger. Besides, we need to guard against the Great Expansion Dao Gate, the Immortal Giant Sect, and the Innate Dao Sect. Not to mention, I''ve offended quite a few people today, so we need to be wary of them too. We must go to the Greenwood Sect."


    After saying that, he and Fairy Yu transformed into sword lights and sped toward the Greenwood Sect.


    "The sword in his hand is the vessel of an evil object. The mottled bloodstains on it are the source of the evil. This evil object allowed a mere Foundation Building Realm cultivator to strike fear into two Dao Union Realm cultivators, indicating its formidable origin."


    "If we can capture and sessfully refine it,bined with our Innate Dao Sect''s ''Spirit Attachment Technique,'' the power would be unimaginable."


    After Fang Chen and Fairy Yu left, several figures suddenly appeared not far from the Immortal Dynasty Manor. Those individuals had been hiding under a concealing formation all along, never revealing themselves.


    "That''s true, but he may have a powerful backer... An Incense Sect Profound Immortal, an Immortal King, or even a First-Rate Sect Leader...."


    "If we act rashly, we might bring disaster upon our sect. We are not like the Great Expansion Dao Gate; they have an Immortal King. With an Immortal King''s protection, even ordinary First-Rate Sect Leaders would show him a bit of face."


    "Let''s try. If it doesn''t work out, we''ll stop. Now that the agreement between the Heavenly King Zhen Pce and the Void Immortal Sword Sect is void, we won''t be breaking any rules by taking action."


    After some discussion, they decided to follow Fang Chen and Fairy Yu and wait for the right moment to strike.


    A few dayster, Fang Chen and Fairy Yu arrived at the foot of an immortal mountain. As soon as they reached the base, someone came forward to guide them.


    "Please, follow me."


    "Did this senior brother know we wereing?" Fairy Yu asked curiously, noticing that their guide''s aura was around the Golden Core Realm.


    The guide nced at Fairy Yu and Fang Chen and showed a wry smile. "With themotion you two have caused, how could the Greenwood Sect not be aware? However, it''s not just the Greenwood Sect, this matter will have significant repercussions across the Central Continent Empire."


    He gestured for them to follow him up the mountain, leading the way with aposed demeanor despite the underlying tension caused by recent events.


    "Countless people are now specting about your background, Fellow Cultivator," the Golden Core Realm cultivator said, ncing at Fang Chen curiously. "Are you really from the Incense Sect?"


    Fang Chen pondered for a moment before responding, "Let''s just say I have some connections with the Incense Sect."


    His answer was ambiguous but not entirely untrue, as he did have some ties with Supreme Immortal Pudu. To the Golden Core Realm cultivator from Greenwood Sect, it sounded like an admission.


    A look of excitement appeared on his face. "It seems the rumors are true. You really do have ties with the Incense Sect."


    They casually chatted as they scaled the mountain


    Fang Chen and Fairy Yu learned from the Golden Core cultivator that his name was Shentu Chun. ording to Shentu Chun, they discovered that the Qinghu Ruler and her entourage had already arrived at the Greenwood Sect. It was true that an ancestor of the Qinghu n was in secluded cultivation at the Greenwood Sect.


    Recently, the sect had acquired an ancient immortal tree from the Ancient Immortal Road, attracting cultivators from everywhere.


    "You two... if I may ask, are you here for the Vast Origin Fruit?" Shentu Chun asked. "The fruit only ripens once every three hundred years, and each time, only one fruit is produced. The elders of the sect likely won''t part with it easily. Its value can''t be measured by ordinary spirit stones."


    Shentu Chun sighed lightly. "You two should be prepared for this."


    Fang Chen''s eyes flickered with interest. "Does the Vast Origin Fruit have another use?"


    Shentu Chun nodded lightly. "Don''t underestimate its ability to eliminate karma; this alone gives it tremendous value. The Three Cmities are a part of karma, and the Nine Tribtions also contain the thread of karma. You should now understand the true purpose of the Vast Origin Fruit, right?"


    Fang Chen understood what he was implying. "Indeed."


    The true function of the Vast Origin Fruit was to dy the arrival of the Three Cmities and the Nine Tribtions. If it could truly eliminate a hundred years of karma, it effectively buys a hundred years of preparation before the Heavenly Tribtion, potentially altering its oue.


    Before long, Shentu Chun led the two to a small teleportation array. After stepping into the array, they were transported to a lofty tform. The area was shrouded in mist, with asional flocks of celestial cranes flying by. In the distance, they could see extensive herb gardens and orchards. Even a shallow breath brought rich spiritual energy into their bodies along with the air.


    Shentu Chun, ustomed to this scene, showed them the way along a stone path on the cloud tform to a grand hall.


    "Elder You, I''ve brought the guests," Shentu Chun announced.


    "Come in," Elder Yu responded.


    "<i>Elder You is one of the nine stewards of our sect, and the Vast Origin Fruit you seek falls under his jurisdiction,</i>" Shentu Chun reminded them through voice transmission.


    Fang Chen nodded slightly. <i>One of the nine stewards?</i>


    Cupping his fist in thanks to Shentu Chun, Fang Chen led Fairy Yu into the hall.

 Chapter 533: Temporary Residence

    <h4>Chapter 533: Temporary Residence</h4>


    The grand hall was bustling with activity, as the people inside had important discussions.


    As Fang Chen and Fairy Yu entered, the hall quieted abruptly, and numerous eyes turned and fixated on them with curiosity and wariness.


    There was a green-robed elderly man seated prominently in the center. He was likely Elder You whom Shentu Chun had spoken of, one of the nine stewards of the Greenwood Sect. Elder You''s cultivation aura was even weaker than that of Gai Hong or Xu Qingsong.


    "Greetings, Elder You," Fang Chen respectfully called out, with a bow and a sped fist.


    Elder You smiled softly and stroked his beard. "Young friend, there''s no need for formalities. I presume you''vee for the Vast Origin Fruit?"


    Seeing that the elder was direct, Fang Chen didn''t beat around the bush. He nodded lightly and responded, "Indeed, that''s why we''re here."


    Elder You sighed softly. "Young friend, you''re a step toote. The Vast Origin Fruit has already been reserved."


    "Reserved?" Fang Chen couldn''t tell whether Elder You was lying or not. "May I know who has reserved the Vast Origin Fruit and what price they offered?"


    "I''m sorry, I can''t disclose their identity, but I can tell you the price they offered," Elder You replied, flipping his palm. "They offered a thousand mid-grade spirit stones."


    Fang Chen frowned. "Mid-grade spirit stones?"


    Mid-grade spirit stones were a lot more valuable than low-grade spirit stones. There was also no standard for conversion between the two; mid-grade spirit stones were the preferred choice for cultivation breakthroughs among Middle Three Realms cultivators.


    Fang Chen was not resigned and probed further, "Elder You, I wonder, how many low-grade spirit stones can one thousand mid-grade spirit stones be exchanged for?"


    He had hundreds of thousands of low-grade spirit stones in his storage ring. Perhaps that amount was enough for Elder You to change his mind.


    Many people in the hall smiled knowingly.


    <i>Low-grade spirit stones?</i>


    Elder You showed a smile too. "If it was any other ordinary spirit fruit, our sect would settle with low-grade spirit stones. But when ites to a treasure like the Vast Origin Fruit, even bids of high-grade spirit stones wouldn''t be excessive, let alone mid-grade.


    "As for how many low-grade spirit stones can be exchanged for one thousand mid-grade spirit stones, it depends on the demand. In our case, even five million low-grade spirit stones wouldn''t be enough."


    Feng Chen sighed inwardly. He understood the true meaning behind Elder You''s words. It wasn''t that five million low-grade spirit stones couldn''t be exchanged for one thousand mid-grade spirit stones; rather, Elder You was emphasizing the importance of mid-grade spirit stones.


    "My lord, shall we leave?" Fairy Yu whispered. "Perhaps there are Vast Origin Fruits elsewhere."


    "Youngdy, that wouldn''t be correct." Elder You smiled. "As far as I know, there is only one living Vast Origin Fruit tree in the entire Central Continent Empire, and it''s with the Greenwood Sect. You won''t find a second Vast Origin Fruit tree elsewhere."


    "Elder You, I once met a senior from the Greenwood Sect. I wonder if that senior is still around?" Feng Chen suddenly asked.


    "You have met an elder from the Greenwood Sect? Is he one of the nine stewards?" The elder smiled and shook his head. "Since the Vast Origin Fruit has already been sold, none of the stewards can have a say in this anymore. This is the foundation of the Greenwood Sect. If we break this rule ourselves, how can the Greenwood Sect continue its legacy in the Central Continent Empire?"


    "Today, Elder You has been patient enough to specially instruct someone to bring these two here."


    "As for the girl, the Void Immortal Sword Sect expelled her. However, they say she''s expelled, but looking at how the Void Immortal Sword Sect treats her, they don''t actually treat her as an expelled disciple. But as for the Inverse Immortal Demonic Embryo... There''s really no way to save her. Unless she truly falls into demonic ways. But the Void Immortal Sword Sect won''t allow such a thing to happen."


    "Furthermore, the background of this person should not be underestimated. Ah, our Greenwood Sect wants to achieve bnce and favor from all sides, which is quite difficult. It''s only through the efforts of the nine stewards over the years that we have managed not to offend various factions."


    People in the hall exchanged messages in secret.


    "Junior doesn''t know if that elder is one of the nine stewards, but I still want to meet him. Perhaps that elder can help," Fang Chen said.


    Elder You hesitated for a few seconds and asked, "Do you remember what he looked like?"


    Fang Chen briefly described the old man''s appearance. After that, he added, "In addition, when I met this elder, he had his granddaughter apanying him."


    "It seems... You''ve met the ancestor of our Greenwood Sect," Elder You said with surprise. He turned to those beside him and said, "Let''s temporarily keep the Vast Origin Fruit and have our guests wait a bit."


    "Elder You, isn''t that against the rules?" one of the people nearby said with aplex expression.


    "Rules or not, let''s set that aside for now. I need to consult the ancestor before making a decision on this matter," Elder You said calmly.


    With that, Elder You smiled at Fang Chen. "Young friend, please stay in our Greenwood Sect for a few days. The ancestor''s seclusion residence is quite a distance from here. It will take me at least seven days for the round trip."


    "Thank you, Elder You," Fang Chen said, bowing respectfully.


    He could afford to wait seven days. During this time, he nned to thoroughly study the immortal blood. If he could harness the power of their consciousnesses, they would be his strongest trump card. At this stage, they were at least stronger than the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture and the Radiant Divine Eyes.


    When Shentu Chun received the news that Elder You had arranged for Fang Chen and Fairy Yu to stay in the sect for seven days, he was somewhat surprised. He had expected Elder You to refuse outright and ask the two to leave, but instead, Elder You went to consult the ancestor of the Greenwood Sect.


    An hourter, Shentu Chun led the two to a cave mansion located on an immortal mountain. Simr cave mansions dotted the mountain, numbering in the hundreds.


    Shentu Chun smiled and introduced the two to the ce. "This ce is specially prepared for guests. The surrounding caves are all upied by visitors whoe seeking spiritual herbs and fruits from the sect. You two can stay here for seven days. If you need anything, just ring the bell in front of the cave, and a celestial crane wille to guide you."


    Curious, Fairy Yu touched the bell in front of the cave.


    A clear bell rang out, followed shortly by a cry, and a celestial crane hovered in the air before descending. "What''s the matter?"


    Shentu Chun smiled. "Crane Nine, you''re the one on duty today?"


    "Oh, it''s Senior Shentu Chun. Yes, it''s my turn." Crane Nine recognized Shentu Chun and spoke with a slightly improved tone. "Senior Shentu, what can I do for these two guests?"


    Seeing this, Shentu Chun tactfully brushed off the question. After seeing Crane Nine off, he turned to Fairy Yu with a wry smile.


    "Young Lady Yu, if there''s nothing urgent, you might want to refrain from ringing that bell too often. The cranes can be quite temperamental; be cautious not to step on their toes."


    Fairy Yu nodded quickly with a smile. "Understood, understood."


    After Shentu Chun left, Fang Chen led Fairy Yu into the cave. They each sat down in the hall, exchanged a look, and let out a sigh of relief.


    It had been several years since they met at sea, and for the first time, they didn''t have to face an almost endless pursuit.


    Fairy Yu looked at Fang Chen with a smile. "Young Master, you said earlier that if I were to listen to you about the Vast Origin Fruit, you''d listen to any of my requests. Does that still hold?"

 Chapter 534: The Mad King

    <h4>Chapter 534: The Mad King</h4>


    Fang Chen looked puzzled. "I said that?"


    Fairy Yu frowned.


    Seeing that she had gotten angry, Fang Chen chuckled and admitted, "Of course, I meant what I said."


    Fairy Yu snorted. "Good."


    Fang Chen smiled. "You must be tired. Go and rest."


    Fairy Yu''s eyes lit up. "Will you apany me, my lord?"


    "Of course not." Fang Chen shook his head slightly. "I have some things to attend to. Don''t forget, someone might be using the Heaven Profound Mirror to watch you."


    "True...."


    Looking slightly annoyed, Fairy Yu got up and headed to a quiet chamber, nning to rest for a few days.


    After Fairy Yu left, Fang Chen immediately took out themunication token of the Killing Spiritual Division.


    "<i>Fellow cultivators, do you have a list of Spirit Blood Sect cultivators</i>?"


    After waiting for a while, a response finally appeared.


    "<i>Are you new here?</i>"


    "<i>How did you know?</i>"


    "All the Killing Spiritual Division cultivators around here know who belongs to the Spirit Blood Sect. If you''re passing through, don''t interfere with our affairs. We''re in the process of closing in on one of them."


    <i>They''re closing in on someone?</i>


    Fang Chen nodded lightly and stoppedmunicating. He didn''t want to disturb the work of other Killing Spiritual Division cultivators.


    Besides, Fairy Yu''s lifespan could still support her for quite a few years. Thirty years wasn''t long, but it wasn''t too short either. Perhaps, during the next thirty years, he could find a way to resolve the problem of the Inverse Immortal Demonic Embryo.


    "Little Mirror, can people with the Inverse Immortal Demonic Embryo really only live for thirty years?"


    "Who said that? As long as the owner of the Inverse Immortal Demonic Embryo keeps devouring the lifespan of others, they can live on indefinitely.


    "In fact, it''s beneficial for sword cultivators. Your life spans are already short. The Inverse Immortal Demonic Embryopensates for that weakness."


    Fang Chen shook his head lightly. "Unless you truly sumb to the dark side and start targeting innocent people, where would you find so many people to kill? We can''t do that.¡±


    "You mortals are really something. Why distinguish between what''s demonic and what''s not? In the Immortal Realm, such distinctions don''t exist. As long as you''re strong enough and live long enough, you''re considered to be an Immortal."


    Fang Chen was slightly taken aback. "Is there no division between good and evil in the Immortal Realm?"


    "The so-called good and evil are just different perspectives. In fact, the methods of the Spirit Blood Sect that you''ve been investigating resemble those of certain individuals in the Immortal Realm."


    Fang Chen fell silent immediately. It seemed that the Immortal Realm was different from what he had imagined. Perhaps it was even less humane than the mortal cultivation world, with only different stances.


    "Little Mirror, it seems there are nine consciousnesses hidden in the bloodstains on Little Sword. Besides what I did back then, is there any other way tomunicate with them?" Fang Chen asked casually.


    "Communicate with them?" Mirror of the Universe pondered. "I advise you not to do that. Although they are only postnatal spiritual consciousnesses, their original owners were very powerful in their lifetime, indicating that the former master of Little Sword was also a strong figure in the Immortal Realm. Trying tomunicate with them at your current level is like inviting disaster."


    After a pause, Mirror of the Universe continued, "If you''re willing to spend fifty thousand low-grade spirit stones, perhaps I can propose a method, but whether you can achieve it depends entirely on you."


    Fang Chen thought about it for a moment, then he took out fifty thousand low-grade spirit stones and handed them to Mirror of the Universe.


    As Mirror of the Universe busied itself digesting the spirit stones, Fang Chen began to go through his possession. He still had fifty-three thousand low-grade spirit stones left. As for magical treasures, aside from the Binding Bell, Little Sword had consumed everything else.


    "It''s a pity I used the third sword when breaking the Sealing Immortal Formation." Fang Chen sighed inwardly. "Its power was too overwhelming; all the storage rings on those Golden Core Realm cultivators were reduced to ashes. Otherwise, it would have made a considerable amount of spirit stones."


    By now, Mirror of the Universe had already finished devouring the fifty thousand low-grade spirit stones.


    It said cheerfully, "Brother, the Great Expansion Dao Gate has a technique called the Spiritual Attachment Technique. If you can obtain this technique, you can use it to refine the spirits in the blood. If sessful, you can take them under your control."


    Fang Chen frowned slightly. "Spiritual Attachment Technique?"


    His enmity with the Great Expansion Dao Gate had escted to irreconcble levels; how could he have any chance of obtaining their Spiritual Attachment Technique?


    It seemed he wouldn''t be able to utilize the nine consciousnesses from the blood of the immortals in the foreseeable future.


    After a moment of silence, Fang Chen checked the requirements for advancing to the third stage of the Radiant Divine Eyes.


    Going through the spiritual materials required, Fang Chen found that every single one of them was extremely valuable. A few of them were evenparable to the Eye of Dusk. However, that wasn''t the critical issue; the third stage of the Radiant Divine Eyes had an extremely strict requirement.


    For a cultivator to condense the third stage Radiant Divine Eyes, they would have to already achieved the Enlightenment Realm. Otherwise, they would face a powerful bacsh.


    Fang Chen showed a bitter smile. "The Enlightenment Realm..."


    He was currently in the Foundation Building Realm, tens of thousands of miles away from the Enlightenment Realm.


    Once his matters there were settled, it was imperative for Fang Chen to swiftly reach the Three Thousand Dao Sect to obtain further cultivation techniques. It didn''t matter how strong his abilities were. Without a solid cultivation base to rely on, he oftencked the confidence to go further.


    The next day, someone knocked on the door of his cave. Fang Chen opened it to find dozens of Greenwood Sect cultivators gathered outside, ranging from Foundation Building Realm to Golden Core Realm cultivators.


    "Is something the matter?" Fang Chen asked in confusion.


    "It''s really him!"


    "I didn''t expect him to have actuallye to the sect!"


    "We''ve seen the legendary Mad King with our own eyes!"


    The many Greenwood Sect cultivators were clearly very excited as they traded whisperers among themselves.


    "The Mad King?"


    Several of the Golden Core cultivators at the forefront awkwardly smiled, using their eyes to signal the others to quiet down.


    Then, one of them respectfully greeted Fang Chen with folded hands. "Apologies for disturbing you, Daoist Xia. Some of my junior and senior martial siblings saw your remarkable presence in the Heaven Profound Mirror recently and insisted oning to visit."


    "Senior Brother Wu, who insisted oning.... You''re clearly the one who didn''t have the courage toe alone and dragged us along...." someone muttered under their breath.


    The Golden Core Realm cultivator''s face stiffened momentarily. He shot a fierce re at the speaker before awkwardly smiling back at Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen understood the situation. Since these cultivators harbored no ill intentions, he engaged them openly, answering their questions and conversing freely.


    From them, he learned about the origin of his nickname. It stemmed from the spectacle Fang Chen caused at the Immortal Dynasty Manor that day, which had resulted in two Dao Union stage cultivators getting beaten up. He had defeated famous experts like Ge Hong and even the Immortal Seedling, each one a renowned powerhouse in the Central Continent Empire.


    Suddenly, someone''s cold voice rang out, "The Mad King''s reputation has grown sorge that it can now influence Greenwood Sect. Quite impressive indeed."


    The words carried a hint of mockery and anger.


    The crowd was immediately taken aback.


    Someone quickly asked, "Who are you, youngdy? You don''t seem to be from the Greenwood Sect."


    Fang Chen''s gaze shifted slightly.


    In the crowd stood a young woman. Her cultivation was at around the mid-stage of the Golden Core Realm.


    She stared at Fang Chen darkly and said, "My ancestor was supposed to have purchased the Vast Origin Fruit, but because of a single word from the Mad King, we have been unable to obtain it. It seems the so-called rules of Greenwood Sect areughable indeed."


    Her words were not only aimed at Fang Chen but also at the Greenwood Sect disciples present.


    Several Golden Core Realm cultivators from Greenwood Sect frowned deeply but did not speak out easily because it involved the Vast Origin Fruit.


    The Vast Origin Fruit was mostly sold to those about to face their Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions, with most being Dao Union stage cultivators.


    The woman before them might be a descendant of one such expert.

 Chapter 535: Spy?

    <h4>Chapter 535: Spy?</h4>


    Seeing Fang Chen remain silent, the woman became even more emboldened and continued to taunt him with her cold sarcasm.


    Some Greenwood Sect disciples couldn''t help but advise her to stop, but she showed no fear, venting her anger. She even criticized the Greenwood Sect itself.


    Before long, a man swiftly arrived and stopped the woman from speaking further. "You should hold your tongue, youngdy."


    The man gave Fang Chen a wary nce. Forcing a smile, he said, "My sister speaks without a filter. Please forgive any offense caused."


    With that, he promptly led the woman away.


    Sensing that the atmosphere had turned tense ever since the woman appeared, the Greenwood Sect disciples who hade to meet Fang Chen decided to leave too.


    "Well then, we''ll take our leave."


    They departed quickly after bidding their farewell.


    Turning around, Fang Chen saw Fairy Yu standing at the entrance of his cave, looking at him withplex emotions.


    Fang Chen smiled. "What''s wrong?"


    Fairy Yu frowned. "You wouldn''t have to endure hearing all that if it weren''t for me, my lord...."


    "There''s nothing to feel aggrieved about. We are in the wrong after all," said Fang Chen, shaking his head lightly. "Letting her vent a bit of her frustration is harmless."


    Fairy Yu fell silent.


    ***


    Days passed, and the woman from before never returned to mock or taunt Fang Chen. Instead, the young man who had taken her away visited Fang Chen regrly. It seemed he wasn''t angry about Fang Chen''s attempt to acquire the Vast Origin Fruit intended for their ancestor.


    Every time he visited, they would chat about interesting events in the Central Continent Empire and rumors from various sects. Their discussions avoided cultivation techniques and spells.


    "Brother Xia, it''s gettingte. I''ll take my leave now."


    "I''ll walk you out."


    Fang Chen stood up and escorted him to the cave''s door, watching as he left.


    After he left, Fairy Yu walked up and stood next to Fang Chen, frowning as she watched the man''s fading back.


    "My lord, you once told me that anyone who offers unsolicited kindness is either up to no good or after something."


    Fang Chen nodded slightly. "Li Hao does seem peculiar. Moreover, he''s got a very solid level of cultivation; he''s at thete stage of the Nascent Soul Realm. He is a step away from entering the Enlightenment Realm.¡±


    "Could he be a member of the Spirit Blood Sect? You''ve disrupted their ns in the Hidden Cloud Region; they must hold a deep grudge against you," Fairy Yu mused aloud.


    "When I left the Azure Cloud Empire, I already knew that one of the Spirit Blood Sect''s Four Great Generals, the Azure Dragon Battle General, wasing after me. I didn''t just disrupt their ns in the Hidden Cloud Region; I also killed two of his disciples." Fang Chen smiled wryly. "Regardless of his intentions, once we get the Vast Origin Fruit, we''ll leave."


    Back at his cave, Fang Chen projected his divine soul and entered Li Hao''s cave.


    "Brother, you went to see Xia Xuanji again? Why do you want to associate with him? If not for him, ancestor would have obtained the Vast Origin Fruit long ago!" the womanined when she saw Li Hao return.


    Li Hao smiled. "Little sister, you''ve seen Xia Xuanji''s methods before. His background is profound. Building a rtionship with him would greatly benefit our Li Family."


    "What for?! He¡¯s just a cultivator at the Foundation Building Realm.¡±


    Despite the astonishing methods Fang Chen had disyed when he went crazy, some said it was just the manifestation of a master¡¯s Divine Descent and not his true ability.


    The woman frowned. "Even when he broke the Sealing Immortal Formation of the Great Expansion Dao Gate, he was possessed by a strong practitioner from the Incense Sect."


    "Don''t forget, he also has the support of the Void Immortal Sword Sect." Li Hao chuckled lightly. "The sect itself is also known for its sword cultivation."


    With that said, Li Hao softly ruffled the woman''s hair and walked toward a quiet room, evidently unwilling to continue the conversation.


    The woman remained silent for a moment before getting up and heading to another room.


    Fang Chen first went to Li Hao''s room, where he saw him sitting quietly, before proceeding to the room where the woman was staying.


    In addition to the woman, there was an old man in the room whose face was full of dark brown spots.


    The old man''s skin was wrinkled, and his hair was sparse, amon appearance among practitioners whose lifespan was nearly depleted. They would end up in this state when their lifespan was nearly exhausted and could no longer be maintained by spiritual energy alone.


    However, the old man''s aura was very powerful and imposing, giving Fang Chen the impression that he was stronger than Su Mo and Elder Chen.


    That meant that this old man was in the process of passing the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions. If he managed to cross it, he would be able to enter the Tribtion Realm!


    "Old Ancestor, the eldest brother is not from the Killing Spiritual Division. He went to find Fang Chen just to make friends with him, hoping that the Li Family could use him in the future," the woman said with a polite and respectful expression.


    Fang Chen was slightly startled. He thought that Li Hao was suspicious, but he didn''t expect the woman and the old man to be the ones who were actually from the Spirit Blood Sect!


    The old man was in the Dao Union Realm. Additionally, he was already undergoing the Nine Tribtions and Three Cmities, making him the strongest and highest-ranking Spirit Blood Sect practitioner Fang Chen had ever encountered. Their knowledge of his original name confirmed it, indicating they came prepared.


    The old man spoke slowly. "Little Qing, you are the most reliable among the youngest generation of our family. Sometimes you must not act too hastily. The Spirit Blood Sect is crucial to our family''s continuation, and there can be no room for error."


    He continued, "Whether your elder brother is a member of the Killing Spiritual Division is not for discussion now. I want you to get close to Fang Chen. He has offended a significant figure in the Spirit Blood Sect. If you can capture him alive, the ancestor won''t need the Vast Origin Fruit anymore, and our ancestor will surely advance to be a Profound Immortal as nned."


    Fang Chen was taken aback. "Capture me?"


    <i>The significant figure the old man mentioned can''t be someone behind the Azure Dragon Battle General, can he?</i>


    Li Xiaoqing smiled faintly. "Rest assured, old ancestor. When I mocked him that day, he did not respond. He must be feeling guilty. I can use this to get close to him without him suspecting a thing."


    The old man nodded. "Good, that''s how it should be. The old ancestor doesn''t know how many members of the Killing Spiritual Division are watching behind the scenes. It''s risky to act hastily. A single misstep and we, the Li Family, could be uprooted. The sess of this task depends on you."


    With that said, the old man slowly closed his eyes.


    Li Xiaoqing, seeing this, left the room and sat by herself, seemingly lost in thought.


    After returning his divine soul to his physical body, Fang Chen took out themunication token of the Killing Spiritual Division.


    Themunication talisman faintly heated up, indicating that there were people already chatting.


    "<i>The Void Immortal Sword Sect has identified a Spirit Blood Sect practitioner, proving that the actions of Gai Wu, the third son of Heavenly King Zhen, were all influenced by that bastard.</i>"


    "<i>Heh, the Spirit Blood Sect truly has infiltrated everywhere. Even the Void Immortal Sword Sect couldn''t avoid them?</i>"


    "<i>Everyone, be careful during this period. Since the incident in The Hidden Cloud Region, the Spirit Blood Sect seems to have be more aggressive. Many of our members have been out of contact for a long time.</i>"


    "<i>Could there be infiltrators in our Killing Spiritual Division?</i>"<i> </i>


    Fang Chen frowned slightly as he read the third message. <i>It seems that the incident involving Little Yu was indeed the Spirit Blood Sect''s covert retaliation.</i>


    <i>Furthermore, the Spirit Blood Sect is employing more aggressive tactics, even targeting Killing Spiritual Division members...?</i>


    After a moment of contemtion, Fang Chen was about to send a message when a thought struck him and he projected his divine soul out, returning to the room where the old man was.


    Phasing through the walls into the room, Fang Chen saw the old man holding amunication token of the Killing Spiritual Division, clearly in the midst of transmitting a message.

 Chapter 536: I Want You

    <h4>Chapter 536: I Want You</h4>


    Fang Chen furrowed his brow slightly. "This is bad...."


    The Killing Spiritual Division had indeed been infiltrated, and by a formidable cultivator at the Dao Union Realm nheless.


    Just then, Fang Chen saw the old man put away themunication token, followed immediately by a phantom emerging from the old man''s body.


    <i>Is he projecting his divine soul out?</i>


    Fang Chen quickly returned his divine soul to his body, stashing away the Killing Spiritual Divisionmunication talisman. He then projected his divine soul out again, quietly staying beside his physical body and observing.


    Sure enough, after a while, he saw the old man''s divine soul enter the room, silently scrutinizing him. Throughout the encounter, Fang Chen could see the old man clearly, but the old man couldn''t discover his presence.


    The old man remained there for an entire hour before finally turning and leaving. Fang Chen continued to wait patiently. When the old man returned, he spent another fifteen minutes observing Fang Chen.


    Only after confirming that the old man had truly departed did Fang Chen retract his divine soul, taking out materials for crafting talismans to pass the time.


    The next day, the celestial crane named Crane Nine knocked on the door of the cave residence. Upon seeing Fang Chen and Fairy Yu, it spoke lightly. "Steward You wishes to see you. Pleasee with me."


    Fang Chen nodded "Thank you."


    Fang Chen led Fairy Yu onto the back of the celestial crane. The crane carried them through Greenwood Sect until it halted in front of a building.


    Voices could be heard from within, one of which Fang Chen recognized well. It was the voice of the old man who had once given him the Greenwood token.


    Entering the hall, they saw Steward You standing respectfully, asionally exchanging words with the elderly man seated in the center.


    Upon spotting Fang Chen and Fairy Yu, Steward You whispered softly, "Elder, they have arrived."


    The old man looked at Fang Chen with a smile that wasn''t quite a smile. "Young friend, it has been quite a few years."


    Fang Chen bowed respectfully. "I pay my respects to you, Elder."


    ¡°Little You has already informed me of your intentions ining. We only have one Vast Origin Fruit left, which was sold to the Li Family''s Dao Union Realm cultivator before your arrival,¡± the old man said with a faint smile. ¡°We at Greenwood Sect abide by our rules; rules that cannot be broken. I hope you understand, young friend.¡±


    "In that case, I won''t disturb you further, Elder," responded Fang Chen, nodding lightly.


    Fang Chen bowed and prepared to leave with Fairy Yu.


    However, he suddenly heard the old man chuckle. "Youngsters are always in a hurry. I haven''t finished speaking yet, why are you in such a rush to leave?"


    Fang Chen''s gaze flickered, turning back to the old man. "Elder, do you have any more Vast Origin Fruits avable?"


    The old man chuckled again, flipping his palm to reveal a fruit surrounded by a green mist. "Naturally. How can I not keep a few of these marvelous fruits for our Dao Union Realm disciples?"


    "<i>Little Mirror, is this the Vast Origin Fruit?</i>" Fang Chen inquired internally.


    "<i>It is</i>," Little Mirror confirmed.


    Fang Chen sped his fist towards the old man. "Elder, may I ask what I need to offer in exchange for this Vast Origin Fruit?"


    "You only need to answer one question," the old man said lightly.


    <i>Just one question? </i>


    Fang Chen remainedposed. "Elder, please ask."


    The old man''s face turned serious. "From which sect do you hail?"


    <i>Answering this simple question was equivalent to paying a thousand mid-grade spirit stones?</i>


    Fang Chen didn''t rush to answer. He instead asked, "Elder, is knowing which sect Ie from so important that it can be exchanged for a Vast Origin Fruit?"


    "It''s not important to me, but... the worth of the Vast Origin Fruit is about the same to me as the question," the old man replied with a smile that wasn''t quite a smile.


    Fang Chen was shocked, but after a moment''s thought, he replied casually, "Ie from the Three Thousand Dao Sect, though I have not yet formally registered."


    Hearing that, Steward You involuntarily gasped, and he stared nkly at Fang Chen.


    Noticing Steward You''s reaction, Fang Chen thought, <i>Looks like the Three Thousand Dao Sect might be even more formidable than the Void Immortal Sword Sect in the Central Continent Empire. </i>


    "The Three Thousand Dao Sect..." the old man repeated softly.


    He looked at Fang Chen again and probed further. "Who was the master who epted you into the sect?"


    "Senior Yun He," Fang Chen answered.


    Steward You instinctively wanted to say something, but a nce from the old man made him swallow his words.


    "Very well, this Vast Origin Fruit belongs to you," the old man said casually, tossing the fruit into Fang Chen''s hand.


    Without hesitation, Fang Chen passed the fruit to Fairy Yu. "Take it."


    Fairy Yu nodded gently. Just as she was about to consume the Vast Origin Fruit, it involuntarily transformed into a wisp of clear qi, flowing into her seven orifices.


    "What a strange feeling, my lord," Fairy Yu eximed with a hint of surprise. "It''s as if something has been removed from me."


    Little Mirror''s voice rang out in Fang Chen''s mind. "<i>Brother, her karmic ties have been severed. The karmic ties will be restored after a hundred years. Now even I cannot track her, let alone others.</i>"


    A smile spread across Fang Chen''s face, knowing that Fairy Yu had be a lot safer.


    "Young friend, do you happen to know the location of the Three Thousand Dao Sect?" the old man suddenly asked.


    Fang Chen thought for a moment before nodding gently. "Senior Yun He gave me a route map."


    Back in the Heavenly Southern Sect, when facing Immortal Sea Dragon, Yun He disappeared and left him a route map. However, this map was ancient-looking, with an unknown starting point and destination. He needed to study it carefully.


    "Senior Yun He''s route map may be outdated. This jade slip describes how to reach the Three Thousand Dao Sect. Please take a look," the old man said, waving his sleeve.


    A jade slip turned into a stream of light andnded in front of Fang Chen.


    "Thank you, senior," Fang Chen said, respectfully epting the jade slip and bowing.


    The old man nodded lightly. "Go ahead."


    After Fang Chen and Fairy Yu left, Steward You, wearing a strange expression, looked at the old man. "Elder, did he just mention the Three Thousand Dao Sect?"


    The old man chuckled lightly. "Steward You, aren''t you too young to be developing hearing problems? Or is it that you''re going blind?"


    Steward You began, "But¡ª"


    "No buts..." The old man waved his hand dismissively. "You may leave now."


    Steward You departed, still wearing a peculiar expression, as if he had many thoughts weighing on his mind.


    Crane Nine brought Fang Chen and Fairy Yu back to the cave.


    After hopping off Crane Nine''s back, Fang Chen and Fairy Yu found Li Hao and Li Xiaoqing waiting for them in front of the cave''s entrance. They seemed to have waited for quite a while.


    Seeming them, Li Hao chuckled. "Sister, why don''t you apologize to them? He never intended to snatch our spirit fruit."


    Li Xiaoqing stepped forward and sped her fist politely. "Fellow Cultivator Xia, I acted too rashly in the past."


    "What brings you here?" Fang Chen asked with a faint smile.


    Li Hao smiled and exined, "We''ve received the spirit fruit from the Greenwood Sect today. We also learned from the steward that the dy with the spirit fruit was not your doing but because of a decision from the higher-ups. My sister misunderstood, so we came to apologize."


    "You are too kind," responded Fang Chen with a chuckle.


    At this moment, Fairy Yu opened the doors of the cave residence and said to the two, "Fellow cultivators, my lord has matters to attend to today and won''t have the time to wee you inside. Please leave.¡±


    Li Hao was slightly surprised, but he quickly nodded and led Li Xiaoqing away.


    Back inside the cave residence, Fairy Yu looked at Fang Chen and said, "Lord, you haven''t forgotten what you promised me before, have you?"


    "Go on, what do you want?" Fang Chen casually replied with a smile.


    Fairy Yu''s lips curled slightly upward. "I want you...."

 Chapter 537: Yu Donglai from the Innate Dao Sect

    <h4>Chapter 537: Yu Doni from the Innate Dao Sect</h4>


    The next morning.


    Waking up, Fang Chen sat up from the bed and looked to his side. To his surprise, that graceful figure wasn''t by his side.


    His gaze swept around and fell upon a letter on the table. A sense of unease rose in his heart as he got up to open the envelope. It bore the elegant handwriting of Fairy Yu.


    <i>Lord, some days ago, due to my selfishness, I ced you in danger. If it weren''t for the senior who intervened and saved you, my lord, I might not have been able to see you ever again. At that time, my thoughts were simple. I just wanted to apany you and be by your side. But it turned out that my presence only tied your hands and feet.</i>


    <i>You have your own path to walk, and I should also find mine. I''m leaving. If you ever miss me, my lord, perhaps you will find me at Grand Xia, just like the first time we met. By the way, I''m honored that you haven''t had any romantic entanglements with women all these years. Hehe!</i>


    The letter was short, but Fang Chen read it over a dozen times before gently sighing and putting it down.


    "<i>Little Mirror, has her karma really been severed? Even you can''t find her</i>?" Fang Chen asked inwardly.


    "It''s indeed been severed. Younger brother, let me tell you something.... If you two are destined to meet again, it won''t be difficult. What she said now makes a lot of sense. If you were to lose control again due to using the immortals'' blood, perhaps the first to be harmed would be those around you. For now, parting isn''t a bad thing for you two."


    "Little Mirror, since when did you be an expert of the heart?"


    "When you''ve seen enough of these things, it''s hard not to understand a bit," said Mirror of the Universe with a hint of sigh. "I once deeply loved a woman."


    Seeing that was about to drift further off, Fang Chen immediately interrupted, "Why did I sleep so heavilyst night? It should be impossible for that to happen to me."


    "Your woman drugged youst night. I did notice it, but since it was just a sleeping drug and was harmless, I didn''t bother to bring it to your attention. I thought she wanted to make things a bit more spicy, you know. I never suspected she nned to sneak away the next day."


    "If something like this ever happens again, remember to remind me," Fang Chen said after a moment of silence.


    "Got it, got it," the Mirror of the Universe responded, perhaps sensing a hint of anger in Fang Chen''s voice and not daring to continue its usual nonsense.


    After a long period of silence, Fang Chen took out the jade slip the old man had given him andpared its contents with the route in his mind to verify its authenticity. He found that the two routes looked simr but differed significantly in many crucial ces.


    For instance, in Senior Yun He''s map, the destination upied most of the map. However, in the map of the Greenwood Sect''s ancestor, the destination was just a small dot. Furthermore, the Greenwood Sect ancestorbeled the area in which the Three Thousand Dao Sect was located "the Azure Dao Manor."


    Senior Yun He''s route did not mention anything like it, which was quite strange.


    <i>Regardless, the destinations seem simr. It will be easier to follow the route in the the map of the Greenwood Sect''s ancestor.</i>


    Fang Chen put away the jade slip and slowly merged into the shadows.


    ***


    Outside the Greenwood Sect, a cultivator surrounded by numerous bamboo sticks was performing divination.


    Several other cultivators stood nearby, emitting varying levels of cultivation from the Fusion Realm to the Enlightenment Realm.


    Suddenly, the bamboo sticks showed signs of movement.


    The leading Daoist''s face lit up with joy. "The target has set off; he¡¯s leaving the Greenwood Sect."


    The others gathered around him.


    "Where is he now?"


    "It seems he''s heading toward us...."


    "Heh, we didn''t wait in vain."


    Soon, the time it took for a stick of incense to burn passed.


    "Where is he now?"


    "This doesn''t make any sense. I clearly calcted that he is near us, so why can''t I see any trace of him? He''s about to pass us too."


    "Could it be some kind of concealment technique?!"


    The group''s expressions turned grim.


    The Daoist in the Fusion Realm immediately waved his sleeve and personally performed the Innate Eight Trigrams Technique. He came to a conclusion simr to that of his junior; the target was nearby.


    Meanwhile, Fang Chen was swiftly moving through the shadows. Passing by them, he recognized that their aura was simr to that of the Immortal Seedling from the Innate Dao Sect, the one whom he had killed.


    Fang Chen''s eyes shed with a cold, mocking light. "It seems the Innate Dao Sect didn''t let this rest. They were just preparing to strike at me from the shadows."


    Fortunately, they couldn''t see through his Shadow Buddha Technique and could only estimate his approximate location through calctions.


    Even if the opponents followed him all the way, once Fang Chen reached the Three Thousand Dao Sect, everything would resolve itself smoothly. As he anticipated, the Daoists caught up with him, but they couldn''t pinpoint his exact location, resembling headless flies.


    Meanwhile, Li Hao and Li Xiaoqing arrived at Fang Chen''s cave. After knocking for a while without receiving a response, they realized that Fang Chen had already left.


    "Ah, what a pity. It seems he''s not willing to engage deeply with me," Li Hao sighed softly.


    Although Li Xiaoqing remainedposed, a hint of coldness shed in her eyes. <i>He actually left without a word? Ancestor has been watching him closely. When did he leave?</i>


    Shortlyter, Li Xiaoqing and Li Hao returned to their cave, and the first thing Li Xiaoqing did was meet up with the ancestor.


    "Ancestor, Fang Chen is gone," she reported.


    the old man remained silent for a moment before speaking slowly. "I must say, this kid has some tricks up his sleeve. But many people are watching him closely. Be vignt and you should be able to find him."


    Li Xiaoqing nodded lightly. "Yes."


    ***


    The Daoists had been pursuing Fang Chen for several days now, and they were bing increasingly restless. They knew where Fang Chen should be, but no matter how much they looked, they couldn''t see a trace of him. They were slowly feeling as though they were being toyed with.


    "Elder brother, why not make a move? How long are we going to chase like this? He probably won''t dare to use the same trick he usedst time. If he falls into madness again, he might not even be able to save himself," one of the Daoists suggested.


    The Daoist at the Fusion Realm pondered for a moment. In the next instant, he waved his sleeve. Suddenly, a dazzling golden eight trigram formation appeared in the sky, directly enveloping an area of thousands of miles.


    The Fusion Realm Daoist bowed respectfully and said, "Junior, I am Yu Doni from the Innate Dao Sect. Pleasee out for a chat."


    Fang Chen, attempting to pass through the formation from within the shadows, discovered that the surrounding heavens and earth seemedpletely sealed off. He looked toward Yu Doni, the Fusion Realm cultivator who identified himself, his eyes showing a hint of contemtion.


    A dozen of breaths passed without a response from Fang Chen.


    Yu Doni smiled faintly, and the formation began to shrink bit by bit. At this rate, the array would shrink to be about ten feet in diameter within the time it took for a stick of incense to burn.


    Just then, a streak of sword light burst into the sky, shing toward the edge of the formation. The sword light was instantly nullified the moment it met the formation, causing only a ripple to appear. The formation hadn''t been damaged in the slightest.


    Yu Doni''s lips curled upwards. "Found you."


    ncing in a certain direction, Yu Doni chuckled softly. "Junior, this isn''t like that Sealing Immortal Formation that Golden Core Realm cultivators operate. This one you can''t easily break."

 Chapter 538: Reversal

    <h4>Chapter 538: Reversal</h4>


    Fang Chen emerged from the shadows and looked calmly at Yu Doni. "Senior, why have you stopped me?"


    When the disciples around Yu Doni saw Fang Chen appear, they instinctively moved to take action. However, Yu Doni raised a hand to stop them.


    Yu Doni smiled and began, "I wish to strike a deal with you, young friend. By the end of this transaction between us, not only will you have rid yourself of the enmity of ying the Innate Dao Sect''s Immortal Seedling, but you will also benefit a lot. After that, we can part ways."


    "What kind of deal?" Fang Chen asked lightly.


    "I want the blood stain on your sword," Yu Doni said with a faint smile. "This object poses a significant danger to you. With your cultivation, you cannot handle it. It''s better to sell it to me."


    "Why do you want it? I believe you and yourpanions have seen its evil nature. I cannot control it, and I fear you may struggle to do so as well. Your cultivation is far inferior to the two Dao Union cultivators from the Immortal Dynasty Manor," Fang Chen replied.


    "Young friend, you may not know this, but we in the Innate Dao Sect have a method called the Spiritual Attachment Technique, which will allow us to refine this item," Yu Doni admitted calmly. "To you, this object might not be as valuable as you have imagined. If you are willing, I''ll trade you for it using mid-grade spirit stones."


    He continued, "You are a Foundation Building Realm cultivator; mid-grade spirit stones can greatly enhance your cultivation. It shouldn''t be a problem for you to advance to the Golden Core Realm or even the Nascent Soul Realm in a short time."


    The other disciples'' eyes flickered with understanding. They knew that Yu Doni''s polite and patient approach was to prevent Fang Chen from resorting to extreme measures. If that happened, not only would they fail to obtain what they desired, but they could also fall into perilous danger.


    However, they weren''t particrly worried. They were well aware of the consequences of Fang Chen using that method. If he resorted to that, both sides would suffer.


    There was a slight flicker in Fang Chen''s eyes. "You too have the Spiritual Attachment Technique?"


    Mirror of the Universe had said that the Great Expansion Dao Gate had the Spiritual Attachment Technique. He didn''t expect that the Innate Dao Sect also possessed it. Could there be some connection between those sects? Or perhaps, like the Five Element Technique, the Spiritual Attachment Technique wasn''t such a rare technique after all?


    If thatst possibility was the truth, then Mirror of the Universe was really bold to have asked him for fifty thousand spirit stones.


    "How about this; you can sell the Spiritual Attachment Technique to me, Senior, and I''ll try to refine it myself." Fang Chen smiled faintly. "If it works, I''ll owe your Innate Dao Sect a favor, which would be like killing two birds with one stone."


    Yu Doni''s sarcastic sneer resounded. "How much is your favor worth?"


    Yu Doni sighed lightly and pressured, "Young friend, I''ll give you the time it takes for an incense stick to burn to consider. Think about it carefully, this transaction will be mutually beneficial."


    Fang Chen chuckled. "And if I don''t agree?"


    "Then we''ll have to force you to use your strange technique." Yu Doni smiled. "At that time, whether we are in danger or not will be another matter, but you will certainly die."


    "I''ll think about it," Fang Chen pondered aloud.


    Yu Doni felt a slight joy in his heart and nodded.


    Fang Chen quietly took out themunication token and sent a message.


    <i>There is a mole in the Killing Spiritual Division. I was nning to collect the list, but I am currently intercepted by Yu Doni of the Innate Dao Sect.</i>


    Leaving the message behind, Fang Chen put away the messaging talisman and waited quietly.


    With that old man''s cultivation at the Dao Union Realm, an incense stick''s time was enough for him to arrive.


    Time passed quickly.


    Yu Doni looked at Fang Chen with a half-smile and said, "Young friend, have you thought it through?"


    "In a moment, a senior will arrive. Once we have his nod of approval, I''ll strike the deal with you," Fang Chen replied calmly.


    Before Yu Doni could respond, a terrifying aura descended from the sky. The Eight Trigrams formation, fragile as tofu in front of this aura, was instantly shattered.


    Yu Doni coughed up blood, his face turning pale.


    A frail-looking elder with sparse hair and a wrinkled face stood with hands sped behind his back, silently observing them.


    Yu Doni could sense the terrifying aura the elder emanated. He was clearly a peak Dao Union Realm cultivator.


    "Who are you, senior?" Yu Doni asked cautiously.


    Although Yu Doni was in the Fusion Realm himself, there was a vast chasm between the Middle Three Realms and the Upper Three Realms. It was a gap that countless cultivators struggled to ovee in their lifetimes.


    The elder remained silent. He merely raised his hand and struck out, crushing Yu Doni and his men into the earth and creating a massive crater hundreds of feet deep. A cloud of dust arose in the air, spreading.


    By the time the dust settled, Yu Doni and his men had disappeared.


    The elder''s eyes shed with a hint of derision. "Earth Escape?"


    Instead of pursuing further, he turned his attention to where Fang Chen was.


    Yet, when he looked, he found that Fang Chen had disappeared too.


    Suddenly, he felt the Killing Spiritual Division''smunication token heat up a little. He took it out to find the following message sent.


    <i>The spy within the Killing Spiritual Division is a Dao Union Realm cultivator who recently purchased a Vast Origin Fruit at the Greenwood Sect. His descendant, Li Xiaoqing, is also a Spirit Blood Sect cultivator.</i>


    The elder''s face turned grim. With a swift motion, he crushed themunication token, unleashing a surge of qi from within.


    The aura of the Killing Spiritual Divison''smunication token had already pervaded his body, and it could be used to prove the identity as a cultivator from the Killing Spiritual Division. Now that his identity had been exposed, not only did the token need to be destroyed, but he also had to expel this aura from his body. Else, his whereabouts would be known to that mysterious master in charge of the Killing Spiritual Division


    The old man''s eyes flickered with cold light. "Who exactly referred Fang Chen to the Killing Spiritual Division?! How does he know about my connection with the Spirit Blood Sect?"


    In the end, he chose not to pursue Fang Chen. He returned to the Greenwood Sect and took Li Hao and Li Xiaoqing before swiftly departing the sect.


    After the old man left, Fang Chen''s figure suddenly emerged from the shadows. He had never left.


    Fang Chen projected his divine soul andbed through the area within a thousand miles. Finally, in an underground riverbed, he found Yu Doni and others. They were all seriously injured.


    One of the Daoists, whose face was as pale as a sheet of paper, kept hacking out blood as his spiritual energy fluctuated in disarray. "Senior Brother, I didn''t expect that kid to have such strong backing. We miscalcted."


    Yu Doni, as equally as pale, closed his eyes to recover. "Don''t speak for now. Focus on recovering."


    However, a whileter, Yu Doni opened his eyes to an astonishing scene; several of his junior brothers were already lying sprawled on the ground. Their heads had fallen from their necks, each with a small sword wound on their foreheads.


    Immediately after, Yu Doni felt a slight chill on his forehead. Just as he tried to reach out to touch it, the sensation abruptly disappeared, only to return momentster. This cycle repeated.


    In just an instant, he had been pierced by hundreds of swords, with countless wounds covering his entire body.


    Before dying, he seemed to see Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen stood before Yu Doni, smiling faintly. "Didn''t expect this, huh? To die one day at the hands of a Foundation Building Realm cultivator."


    Yu Doni''s life shed before his eyes as a bitter smile appeared on his face. However, right before he died, he raised his hand and pped Fang Chen.


    Soon after, a smug smile spread across his face. With that blow, Fang Chen was undoubtedly doomed.


    Yu Doni used hisst breath to let out a chuckle, believing he had dragged down his adversary with him. Yet the real Fang Chen stood nearby, silently observing the scene.


    What Yu Doni saw was merely an illusion from the Illusion Talisman.


    Even if Yu Doni was at the Fusion Realm, he was on hisst leg with these severe injuries. He was barelyparable to a mortal right now. The Illusion Talisman could easily affect him.

 Chapter 539: Bountiful Harvest

    <h4>Chapter 539: Bountiful Harvest</h4>


    There were a total of five cultivators from the Innate Dao Sect. Yu Doni had been at the Fusion Realm, while the others ranged from the Enlightenment Realm to the Soul Splitting Realm.


    It took Fang Chen five days topletely refine their storage rings and retrieve Yu Doni and the others'' belongings.


    His harvest was rich. There were over two hundred mid-grade spirit stones alone. Besides the spirit stones, there were six identical porcin bottles. Fang Chen opened one and saw inside sixty pills enveloped in golden mist.


    "Little Mirror, what kind of pills are these?" Fang Chen asked casually.


    Little Mirror exined, "These are Feather Spirit Pills, most favored by Middle Three Realms cultivators. You can only buy these pills with mid-grade spirit stones. Every Feather Spirit Pill is refined from thousands of rare spiritual herbs through aplex process.


    "The value of these sixty Feather Spirit Pills exceeds those two hundred mid-grade spirit stones you just got. Each pill is equivalent to five years of progress for a Soul Splitting Realm cultivator."


    <i>Five years of cultivation for a Soul Splitting Realm cultivator? These sixty pills would be equivalent to three hundred years of cultivation progress for a Soul Splitting Realm cultivator?</i>


    Fang Chen''s eyes lit up. Though he found cultivation rtively easy with his practices, the addition of these pills to his regimen promised significantly elerated progress.


    "Since it''s equivalent to five years of cultivation for a Soul Splitting Realm, then would one pill be equivalent to a Foundation Building Realm cultivating for a hundred and eighty years?" Fang Chen spected.


    "Given the cultivation base of a Foundation Building Realm cultivator... you can probably only absorb one percent of the medicinal power, wasting the remaining ny-nine percent. However... you do have an extremely solid foundation. You have the Immortal Sword Vein, with majestic spiritual energy. You should be able to absorb ten percent of the medicinal effects, which could equate to ten years of arduous cultivation."


    "Ten years? That''s not bad." Fang Chen smiled. "What rank are these Feather Spirit Pills?"


    "They are high-grade, profound-rank pills. If a few more rare spiritual materials were added, they would be elevated to the peak of the Profound rank. These pills are extraordinary. One pill could boost cultivation by ten years for a Soul Splitting Realm cultivator."


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. Even for Middle Three Realms cultivators, pills of this rank and tier were extraordinary. The fact that Yu Doni and the others had sixty of them likely stemmed from their prestigious backgrounds.


    Putting away the Feather Spirit Pills, Fang Chen''s gaze fell on five neatly arranged treasures.


    "One hundred and eight Soul Imprints are the limit for peak-grade, yellow-rank artifacts. Beyond this limit lies Profound rank artifacts," mumbled Fang Chen.


    Strangely, however, Fang Chen couldn''t see any trace of Soul Imprints on these five profound rank artifacts.


    "Little Zhou, are there no Soul Imprints on profound rank artifacts?"


    "There are, but the Soul Imprints have merged into Dao Imprints, where one hundred and eight Soul Imprints be one Dao Imprint. Brother, if you use spiritual energy to stimte them, you''ll be able to see the Dao Imprints."


    <i>Spiritual energy, huh.</i>


    Fang Chen waved his hand and infused spiritual energy into the five artifacts. Sure enough, with the infusion of spiritual energy, their aura immediately became extraordinary, and soon, Dao Imprints emerged from each of them.


    Yu Doni''s artifact was a flying sword with four Dao Imprints condensed on its de.


    Among the remaining four artifacts, the lowest had one Dao Imprint, while the highest had three Dao Imprints.


    From this, it was clear that Yu Doni''s flying sword was of the peak Profound rank.


    Sensing their aura, Little Sword got very excited, flying around the artifacts eagerly and awaiting Fang Chen''smand to begin devouring this feast before it.


    ncing at Little Sword, Fang Chen smiled. "You''re in luck. You have to thank that spy from the Killing Spiritual Division. If it weren''t for him, it would have been hard to encounter an opportunity like this even in a hundred years."


    If it hadn''t been for that spy from the Killing Spiritual Division, Yu Doni and the others wouldn''t have been so badly injured and he wouldn''t have been able to take advantage of their moment of weakness.


    "Little Chen, if I can devour these five artifacts, I can advance again," Little Sword eximed, full of excitement.


    Fang Chen nodded. "Go ahead. But take it easy."


    Receiving Fang Chen''s approval, Little Sword began to devour Yu Doni''s flying sword. However, this time was different from before. It ate much slower, and the process wasn''t as smooth as before.


    Fang Chen didn''t rush it. He shifted his gaze to several jade slips in his hand, all obtained from Yu Doni and hispanions.


    When Fang Chen''s divine sense entered one of the jade slips, he found that a force had blocked him from essing it, leaving Fang Chen puzzled.


    "Brother, these are Transmission Jade Slips with restrictions. Without corresponding techniques to prove you''re a disciple of the Innate Dao Sect, you can''t see the contents inside," Mirror of the Universe revealed. "You could try using the <i>Introduction to the Three Thousand Daos</i>...¡±


    Curious, Fang Chen followed Mirror of the Universe''s advice.


    To Fang Chen''s surprise, using the Introduction to the Three Thousand Daos really opened the jade slip he tried it on, revealing its contents.


    <i>This jade slip belongs to Yu Doni and records three techniques:</i>


    Scrunching his brow, Fang Chen asked, "Little Mirror, why can the introductory level of the <i>Three Thousand Daos</i> open the Innate Dao Sect''s jade slips?"


    ncing at the other jade slips, Fang Chen tried to open them too. Without surprise, their contents were revealed too. Inside were recordedpletely different techniques.


    Mirror of the Universe chuckled. "Maybe the overall outline of the Innate Dao Sect''s techniques is somewhat simr to the Introduction to the Three Thousand Daos."


    "Maybe?" muttered Fang Chen, his eyes flickering.


    Not dwelling on this point any further, he began to meticulously study the techniques recorded in the jade slips.


    The Destiny Flying Sword Refinement Technique was almost identical to what he had obtained from Mi Sheng of the Chaoxiang Temple, so he didn¡¯t need it.


    However, the rest were quite useful, especially the Spiritual Attachment Technique and the Innate Five Lightning Art.


    He could use the former to deal with the nine consciousnesses in the blood of the immortal. As for thetter....


    It wasn''t difficult to see how rare and precious lightning and thunder techniques were by looking at the Purple Lightning Talisman.


    All Things as Soldiers and Earth Escape Technique were pretty good too, primarily focusing on the application of the Five Elements'' power.


    Fang Chen''s Radiant Divine Eyes enhanced any technique requiring the use of the Five Elements, significantly increasing their effectiveness. However, time was limited, so Fang Chen could only choose one to study first.


    One monthter, Fang Chen slowly opened his eyes. Golden veins shimmered within them.


    He had gained some understanding of the Spiritual Attachment Technique, marking his entry into it. This technique required the use of the divine soul, so it was a technique that could only be wielded by Middle Three Realms cultivators.


    Fortunately, Fang Chen''s divine soul far surpassed ordinary people''s, allowing him to attempt to use the Spiritual Attachment Technique against the nine consciousnesses in the blood of the immortal.


    However, Little Sword was in an unusual state at this moment, so dealing with the blood of the immortals might have to be postponed.


    Finally, after a whole month, Little Sword finished devouring Yu Doni''s flying sword. However, it seemed to be struggling, its sword body swelling like a snake trying to swallow an elephant.


    Mirror of the Universe chuckled mischievously. "<i>Heh</i>, that little brat wanted to eat it all in one go but didn''t stop to consider whether he could do so. I estimate it will take it at least a year to digest that Profound rank treasure."

 Chapter 540: I am Dongfang Haojie!

    <h4>Chapter 540: I am Dongfang Haojie!</h4>


    Little Sword''s voice was filled with pain. "Little Chen, I feel terrible! I want to puke!"


    Even though it knew it couldn''t devour the rest of the Profound rank treasures, it was reluctant to return to Fang Chen''s body.


    "Finish digesting this one first before moving on to the remaining four. I will temporarily keep them for now," said Fang Chen, sighing softly.


    He collected the four treasures and let Little Sword return to his body.


    Little Sword was usually quite mature, but it turned into a greedy child at the sight of food.


    As long as it was something it loved to eat, it would take another bite even if meant losing its lunch.


    Fang Chen gave the corpses of Yu Doni and the others a final look before saying, "It''s time to go."


    Melting into the shadows, he left the underground riverbed.


    Not long after Yu Doni''s death, Fang Chen heard the toll of the death bell echoing through the heavens and earth. By now, the Innate Dao Sect should have known that another Immortal Seedling had perished.


    About two months after Fang Chen left the underground river, an invisible force peeled away the stoneyer above the river.


    The underground river, devoid of daylight, was suddenly flooded with sunlight.


    Under the scorching sun stood several figures quietly looking at the corpses of Yu Doni and the others.


    "It''s Senior Yu," said a man with a hint of schadenfreude. "For such a mighty Immortal Seedling to fall in a barren ce as this is truly tragic and pitiful."


    Another person''s face darkened. "Junior Brother Liu, don''t revel in others'' misfortunes. This isn''t a good thing for us. Three of the Innate Dao Sect''s Immortal Seedlings have died, leaving only one."


    He cautiously scanned the surroundings. Seeing no traps, they proceeded to retrieve the corpses of Yu Doni and the others from the river.


    ¡°Huh?!¡±


    The man who had been gloating earlier was somewhat surprised when he saw the fatal wounds covering everyone. Yu Doni especially had over a hundred sword wounds all over him, each one deadly. Some even stabbed into his Sea of Consciousness.


    "How is it? Did Senior Yu''s Nascent Soul manage to escape?"


    "There''s no sign of a Nascent Soul escaping. It seems it was destroyed within the Sea of Consciousness. Who could have done this? Senior Yu and the others didn''t even have a chance for their Nascent Soul to escape..."


    "It must have been the work of a Dao Union Realm cultivator. It couldn''t possibly have been Xia Xuanji, right? Senior Yu said he would avenge Junior Zhou, but in the end, during the battle at the Immortal Dynasty Manor, he didn''t even dare show his face. It made people think we were too scared to speak up for our deceased Immortal Seedling."


    "Let''s take him back first and see what the higher-ups have to say."


    Taking Yu Doni''s corpse, the group quickly departed.


    ***


    Over the next few months, Fang Chen traveled through nine teleportation arrays, finally approaching the Azure Dao Manor after much effort.


    The Central Continent Empire''s territory was vast and boundless. Without these teleportation arrays as transit points, even Middle Three Realms cultivators would find traveling cumbersome


    He was now very far from the Immortal Dynasty Manor and the Greenwood Sect.


    Gradually, Fang Chen began to notice that the number of mortals he saw increased while cultivators thinned out. Without surprise, the Azure Dao Manor seemed to be in a very remote area of the Central Continent Empire.


    Little Sword''s digestion of the flying sword had been progressing poorly during the past few months. On the other hand, Fang Chen had been practicing the Spiritual Attachment Technique while on the road.


    Fang Chen had reached a point where he could now easily condense a Soul me, a special fire fueled by his soul, with a thought.


    This was the only type of me that could potentially deal with the nine consciousnesses in the immortal blood. It also possessed immense lethality against other cultivators, especially those of a dark and evil nature. The Spiritual Attachment Technique was truly an excellent immortal art, excelling in both offense and defense.


    <i>"Is there anyone nearby? It seems there''s an immortal tomb emerging in the ck Mountain Valley, perhaps the work of the Spirit Blood Sect. If there are fellow cultivators nearby, please investigate as soon as possible!"</i>


    <i>"Is there really no one? What a barren ce. I can''t handle the riffraff of the Spirit Blood Sect alone."</i>


    <i>"Is anyone there???"</i>


    Fang Chen''s expression grew odd as he held themunication token from the Killing Spiritual Division. Ever since he learned that Dao Union Realm members of the Spirit Blood Sect could be impersonating his colleagues, he had grown fearful and vignt toward his fellow division members.


    However, whether or not the person who spoke was a member of the Spirit Blood Sect messing around, he still wanted to check it out.


    He didn¡¯t respond, but instead, he spent 500 low-grade spirit stones to look for the ck Mountain Valley with Mirror of the Universe.


    Several dayster, he noticed more and more cultivators rushing in the same direction.


    Some of them were in the Qi Refining Realm, and even fewer were in the Foundation Building Realm. There were no Golden Core Realm cultivators to be seen among them.


    Fang Chen couldn¡¯t help but wonder why it was getting more and more barren as he traveled closer to the Three Thousand Dao Sect. Not only were the cultivators he was encountering weaker the more he neared his destination, the spiritual energy in the air was also getting thinner.


    <i>The Three Thousand Dao Sect is really located in a ce like this?</i>


    Suddenly, a young man flew over from behind, calling out to Fang Chen repeatedly. "Excuse me, fellow cultivator, excuse me! Could you help me with directions?"


    Fang Chen turned to look at the young man calling for him.


    The young man''s cultivation seemed to be around the sixth level of the Qi Refining Realm. Not far away stood a group of young men and women, among whom the highest cultivation was an indifferent-looking elder at the early-stage Foundation Building Realm.


    "Friend, I''m not a local here. Asking me for directions might be a mistake," Fang Chen replied calmly.


    "Don''t be so formal!" said the young man bubbly. "I''m not from around here either. Judging by your appearance, I am guessing you''re heading to ck Mountain Valley? Do you know how far it is from here?"


    Fang Chen was surprised. "Are you also going to find that immortal tomb?"


    The young man chuckled. "Indeed, I heard that an immortal tomb has emerged, attracting various big shots to ck Mountain Valley. Even if we can''t gain any benefits from the tomb itself, perhaps we can pick up some of the leftover opportunities these big shots overlook. Aren''t you thinking the same, friend?"


    Fang Chen seemed to recall some discussions among his fellow members from the Killing Spiritual Division, mentioning amon tactic of the Spirit Blood Sect to lure and manipte cultivators using opportunities, ultimately causing severe injuries or deaths, all without leaving obvious traces. Only the Killing Spiritual Division cultivators could discern such clues.


    "Are there many cultivatorsing?" Fang Chen asked.


    "Many indeed. Even my family, the Chai Family, has received the news. I''d say at least tens of thousands of cultivators will gather this time, right?"


    Fang Chen nodded slightly. "It''s 8,000 miles to ck Mountain Valley. You''re almost there."


    "8,000 miles? Not too far indeed," the young man muttered to himself.


    Seeing that Fang Chen was preparing to leave, the young man''s eyes suddenly lit up. He hurriedly stepped forward with a smile. "Friend, wait a moment. I see you''re traveling alone. You might face some disadvantages going to ck Mountain Valley alone, right? How about traveling with me and my family? We can help each other and avoid taking the wrong path or missing any opportunities."


    "You want me to travel with you?" Fang Chen sized up the young man and then nodded with a smile. "That sounds good. Traveling together will indeed be safer."


    The young man sped his fist. "How should I address you? I''m Chai Shun."


    Fang Chen sped his fist in return. "I am Dongfang Haojie."


    "That family name...?" mumbled Chai Shun, his eyes lighting up.


    After getting Fang Chen''s name, he led him toward his group.

 Chapter 541: Immortal Tomb

    Chapter 541: Immortal Tomb


    A young man frowned slightly when he saw Chai Shun bring Fang Chen over, his eyes wary as he scrutinized Fang Chen. "Chai Shun, I asked you to inquire about directions, not bring back more people."


    In the cultivation world, unidentified neers were always seen as potential threats.


    The young man had a much higher cultivation than the rest. He was at the tenth stage of the Qi Refining Realm. The others with him were not far off from Chai Shun''s level, ranging from the fourth to eighth level of the Qi Refining Realm.


    Chai Shun ignored the young man''s questioning and respectfully bowed to an elderly man. "Ancestor, this is Daoist Dongfang who knows the exact location of ck Mountain Valley. Could he travel with us? This way, we can avoid getting lost and make it on time."


    The Chai Family ancestor''s gaze swept over Fang Chen indifferently. At this moment, Fang Chen had suppressed his cultivation aura using his spiritual sense to appear below the Foundation Building Realm, roughly at the eighth or ninth stage of the Qi Refining Realm. This ordinary Foundation Building Realm Chai Family ancestor couldn''t discern anything.


    Seeing that Fang Chen was just a Qi Refining Realm cultivator, the Chai Family ancestor nodded lightly and casually asked, "Daoist Dongfang, do you have any rtion to the Dongfang n of Heavenly Maple Valley?"


    Fang Chen shook his head gently. "My humble family only has a few individuals. We are not from a prestigious cultivation lineage."


    "Then which sect or faction are you from?" the Chai Family ancestor inquired.


    "I am just a rogue cultivator," Fang Chen replied. "I was passing through here and considering seeking an apprenticeship at the Three Thousand Dao Sect to further my studies."As he said this, Fang Chen observed the expressions of the group and couldn''t help but sigh inwardly. It seemed that the Three Thousand Dao Sect was not well-known among ordinary cultivators.


    "Three Thousand Dao Sect?" Chai Shun pondered for a moment then chuckled softly. "There are too many sects in this world. I''ve never heard of the Three Thousand Dao Sect. It must be a renowned and righteous sect."


    Pausing briefly, Chai Shun noticed that Fang Chen''s eyes remained closed, and he casually remarked, "My friend, are you visually impaired?"


    Fang Chen nodded lightly and opened his eyes, revealing his gray-white pupils to everyone. a


    Fang Chen closed his eyes shortly after showing them.


    "So, he''s blind... and just a rogue cultivator," muttered some of the Chai Family disciples, their expressions tinged with curiosity and a hint of disdain.


    However, the Chai Family ancestor smiled lightly and nodded approvingly. "If you don''t mind, young friend, travel with us."


    In the following journey, whenever the group veered off course, Fang Chen would speak up and guide them urately, which made Chai Shun''s action of bringing Fang Chen seem justified to the Chai Family disciples. However, thet couldn''t help but find it strange how a visually impaired cultivator could be so familiar with the route and navigate it so precisely.


    Several hourster, a patch of dark brownnd came into view, starkly contrasting with the surrounding green mountains and clear waters. This destend seemed devoid of any vegetation, marked only by numerous irregr deep pits.


    At this moment, in the center of this barren and destend, stood a building shrouded in thick spiritual energy, towering over the surroundings like a lone crane amidst a flock of chickens.


    The structure stretched for dozens of miles, appearing immense from afar, its full scope difficult to discern up close.


    Near the entrance of the building, numerous cultivators were gathered. Fang Chen could sense that there weren''t only Foundation Building Realm cultivators, but also Golden Core Realm and even Nascent Soul cultivators!


    "This is ck Mountain Valley! That must be the legendary Immortal Tomb!" eximed the disciples of the Chai Family with excitement.


    The Chai Family''s patriarch immediately quickened his pace, leading everyone toward the location of the Immortal Tomb.


    During this time, no one noticed that Fang Chen had quietly activated the Primordial Immortal Eye, secretly assessing everything before him.


    <em>There are four Nascent Soul Realm experts and several Golden Core Realm cultivators. It seems unlikely for cultivators in the Middle Three Realms to be here. Perhaps there are none at all,</em> thought Fang Chen.


    His observation also indicated that even if the Spirit Blood Sect were involved, the threat level would be simr to that of the previous incident in the Hidden Cloud Region. Behind them might stand several generals of the Spirit Blood Sect, but dealing with ordinary Spirit Blood Sect disciples would not be too difficult for him now.


    Soon, the group arrived near the Immortal Tomb, but the front positions were already upied. When the Chai Family and others tried to squeeze in, they were met with several rebukes.


    "What are you squeezing for? Where did these bumpkinse from? Now that four Nascent Soul Realm experts are overseeing this matter, those who arrivedte should obediently stay behind and follow the rules," scolded someone.


    Chai Shun and others gasped in awe.


    "Four Nascent Soul Realm experts?!


    In the region where the Chai Family resided, seeing one or two Golden Core Realms would already be remarkable. As for Nascent Soul Realm experts, they were practically unheard of, existing only in legends.


    After the initial shock came excitement¡­. Just the presence of Nascent Soul Realm experts in ck Mountain Valley underscored the tremendous significance of this Immortal Tomb!


    The ancestor of the Chai Family noticed that the person who scolded them had a strong aura, not weaker than his own, also at the early Foundation Building Realm. He chose not to argue and instead tried to look ahead to assess the situation.


    Suddenly, someone''s surprised voice appeared not too far away. "Daoist Chai?"


    The Chai Family''s ancestor looked over and saw a middle-aged cultivator apanied by a group of young people, all staring at him with astonishment.


    The Chai Family''s ancestor finally remembered who the person was, his face breaking into a joyful smile. "You are... Daoist Chi?! Ah, it''s been at least seventy years since west met!"


    It was a reunion of old acquaintances in a distant ce.


    Daoist Chi approached with his disciples in tow, warmly catching up with the Chai Family''s ancestor, "Yes, seventy years have passed in the blink of an eye. It feels like yesterday when we traveled together in the rivers andkes."


    Meanwhile, Fang Chen''s divine soul stood in the void, observing the four Nascent Soul Realm experts.


    <em>The cultivation of these four Nascent Soul Realm experts... how should I put it¡­?</em>


    They were not as strong as Immortal Void Rush and the others. Though they were all at the early stage, they seemed to have just barely made it to the Nascent Soul Ream. Their auras were somewhat chaotic, and they all looked like they had one foot in their graves.


    There were three old men and one old woman.


    About half of the Golden Core Realm cultivators present were brought by them, and they were standing right behind their seniors.


    The four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators had been scrutinizing the Immortal Tomb, their eyes revealing unmistakable greed and anticipation.


    "The Immortal Tomb has been active for nine days, and the prohibition''s aura is weakening day by day. I think in another three to five days, we can try to break the prohibition and take a look inside," one of the Nascent Soul Realm experts slowly spoke, smiling at the other three.


    The other two old men agreed wholeheartedly, but the old woman gently shook her head.


    "Dy brings changes. The sooner we open the prohibition, the better. We should avoid stronger experts arriving unexpectedly," she cautioned.


    "That''s true... but the prohibition''s aura isn''t ripe yet. Even if we force it open together, if something goes wrong, it could affect our lifespans," one of the old men replied.


    "Yes, our lifespans are limited. We shouldn''t squander them easily. Let''s try to use as little effort as possible," another added.


    "Heh, even at this point, you''re still concerned about this and that. I think the three of you might as well just turn back and live well. You could probably live another hundred or eighty years," the old woman remarked with a hint of cold sarcasm, causing the three Nascent Soul Realm experts to look somewhat ufortable.


    Fang Chen observed the four individuals, wondering if any of them were Spirit Blood Sect cultivators. However, he couldn''t discern any clues just by looking at them.


    <em>If that''s the case, let them expose themselves,</em> Fang Chen thought, nning to wait and see.


    Any Spirit Blood Sect member would inevitably leave clues as they navigated their scheme. As long he kept a sharp mind, he''d be able to pick up on them.


    Fang Chen''s gaze shifted toward the gate of the Immortal Tomb. What he saw wasn''t just simple spiritual power but a profound and mysterious array!

 Chapter 542: Lets Fight

    Chapter 542: Let''s Fight


    The formation was more mysterious than any formation Fang Chen had ever seen, surpassing even the Eight Trigrams Formation used by Yu Doni. However, this formation seemed to have weathered with the ages; it had exhausted its spiritual energy in many parts, turning its core into inert matter with no functional use. Thisck of bnce caused it to leak spiritual energy constantly.


    In some time, this formation would self-destruct, which exined why those few Nascent Soul cultivators were choosing to wait.


    <em>I''ll go inside and see what''s really in there.</em> Fang Chen thought


    His divine soul immediately flew toward the Immortal Tomb. He wanted to determine whether the tomb was real or a deception fabricated by Spirit Blood Sect cultivators.


    Just as his divine soul arrived at the entrance, an invisible long de cleaved through the air toward Fang Chen''s divine soul. Fang Chen reacted swiftly, drifting several yards backward just in time to evade the de''s assault.


    Fang Chen''s gaze hardened. "This is¡­."


    The de that had shot out was a manifestation of spiritual energy.


    Fang Chen now could almost confirm that the Immortal Tomb was authentic. If the Spirit Blood Sect cultivators wanted to harm these cultivators, there was no need to set up such measures. The fact that this Immortal Tomb could even block divine souls suggested that it might truly entomb a Profound Immortal or even an Immortal King!


    At this moment, the sluggish spiritual de locked onto Fang Chen once again, shing toward him until he retreated beyond the formation''s perimeter before stopping.Throughout this exchange, none of the cultivators present, including the four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators, witnessed this spiritual-level skirmish.


    Fang Chen no longer attempted to enter the Immortal Tomb. His divine soul was his trump card and his most important asset. Unless necessary, he wouldn''t risk it.


    As his divine soul returned to his body, he noticed the Chai Family ancestor looking at him with displeasure.


    "Dongfang Haojie, why are you so impolite? Elder Chi just asked you a question," the young Chai Family cultivator at the tenth level of the Qi Refining Realm frowned and reprimanded.


    "He asked me a question? What question?" Fang Chen responded casually.


    Chi Chong smiled faintly. "It seems, young friend, that this is your first time encountering such a scene. You were naturally distracted. They mentioned that your surname is Dongfang. Do you happen to know Dongfang Su?"


    Fang Chen shook his head lightly. "Dongfang Su? I don''t know him."


    The Chai Family ancestor curiously looked at Chi Chong. "Daoist Chi, who is this Dongfang Su to you?"


    "Who is he? You could say he''s an enemy. He stole a precious spiritual herb from my cave dwelling not too long ago." Chi Chong looked at Fang Chen with a smile that was not quite a smile. "This person is a disgrace to the cultivation world, a scoundrel who revels in thievery. I imagine he wouldn''t miss such an event, so perhaps we might encounter him here."


    The gazes of everyone present turned somewhat strange as they looked at Fang Chen.


    Chai Shun squeezed out a smile. "Elder Chi, Brother Dongfang and that Dongfang Su certainly have no rtion. There are countless people with the same surname in the world."


    Chi Chongughed. "Of course. Dongfang Su is already at the Foundation Building Realm. I see our young friend here is only at the ninth level of the Qi Refining Realm, so their cultivation levels are naturally quite different."


    With that, he continued to chat with the Chai Family ancestor about the Immortal Tomb.


    "Friend Chai, there is a high chance that the owner of this Immortal Tomb is at least a Profound Immortal." Chi Chong''s face revealed a touch of admiration. "Such beings have transcended the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions. Even the burial items inside could be treasures in our eyes."


    "Transcended Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions?" The Chai Family ancestor''s face showed a hint of embarrassment as he whispered. "Friend Chi, I''m not sure about the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions specifically...."


    Hearing that, the young members of the Chai Family looked curious too. They had heard of the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions but didn''t know what it truly entailed.


    Chi Chong smiled and exined, "I identally stumbled upon an ancient text that recorded some information about the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions. The Three Cmities ur respectively during the Golden Core Realm, Nascent Soul Realm, and Fusion Realm.


    "After reaching the Dao Unity Realm, a cultivator must face the Nine Tribtions. If one can endure the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions, they be a true celestial being, also known as a transcendent at the Tribtion Realm, or a Profound Immortal.


    "In this realm, they face heavenly tribtions. If they can pass these, they achieve true freedom in this world and beyond."


    Captivating the attention of the Chai Family ancestor and his disciples, Chi Chong continued, "Friend Chai, now you understand how difficult this path to immortality is, right? Those who can reach the end are beings we can hardly imagine."


    "Friend Chi, could you tell us what these three Cmities are exactly?" the Chai Family ancestor hurriedly requested.


    This was rare information that he couldn''t acquire even if he spent a fortune. If he could learn in detail about the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions, this would be a fruitful trip no matter the oue.


    "I''m afraid that''s beyond my knowledge. I''ve only scratched the surface. To truly understand, I fear I would have to wait until I, by some stroke of luck, advance to the Golden Core Realm someday," Chi Chong replied with a wry smile.


    The crowd nodded subconsciously, realizing this knowledge was far beyond their reach without firsthand experience.


    Fang Chen sighed softly. A<em>fter the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions, there''s also the Heavenly Tribtion... </em>


    He inwardly asked Mirror of the Universe for information on the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions. Once he obtained the subsequent cultivation techniques, his advancement to the Golden Core Realm wouldn''t be far off; it might happen soon.


    "My friend, each of the three Cmities is different. Some might just stumble and survive, thus passing the first Cmity, while others might be crushed to pieces during the first Cmity. You''ll only know when you face them yourself. In any case, it''s best to stay low-key and hope for a safe passage when the timees," Chi Chong exined.


    "And what about the Nine Tribtions?"


    "The Nine Tribtions¡­. Well... as the name suggests, there are nine challenges, but these challenges aren''t assigned by heaven; they stem from your own circumstances.


    "The stronger your cultivation and the higher your talent, the more formidable these tribtions will be. They could be thunder tribtions, fire tribtions, or even trials of rtionships and the material¡­ there''s no fixed pattern," Chi Chong borated.


    "And what about the tribtions during the Tribtion Realm?"


    "Those are Heavenly Tribtions bestowed by heaven itself, testing whether you''re worthy of entering the immortal realm. Think of them as lightning tribtions, but much stronger. Generally, you''ll need external assistance to make it through," Chi Chong concluded.


    At that moment, a sudden uproar erupted ahead. The Chai Family ancestor and others turned their heads, seeing several cultivators speaking with veiled anger, seemingly throwing questions at each other.


    "Seniors, the emergence of the Immortal Tomb is a chance bestowed upon the cultivation world. Why limit it to only two hundred people?"


    "Yeah, at least eight thousand havee. We should all have a chance to enter the Immortal Tomb. As for the opportunities, let luck decide!"


    "Is there a dispute?"


    Fang Chen''s divine soul immediately projected outward, silently observing everything below. This was the moment he had been waiting for; whenever there was discord, there were always a few troublemakers behind it, likely from the Spirit Blood Sect.


    The old crone rose into the air, her murky eyes sweeping slowly over the cultivators. "You should be grateful when I give you a chance, not push for more."


    She continued, "Opportunities are meant for those with fate, not for just anyone. Only two hundred people under the Foundation Building Realm can enter. If anyone disagrees, speak up now."


    The crowd fell silent instantly. They couldin, but confronting a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator face-to-face was beyond their courage.


    Someone cautiously asked, "How will the two hundred be selected?"


    "I will give you a fair chance. Let''s settle it through a contest," the old crone said lightly.


    The Qi Refining Realm cultivators present all looked serious. They hadn''t even entered the Immortal Tomb yet, and now they had to fight?

 Chapter 543: Adding Fuel to the Fire?

    The old woman proposed a contest of strength, and the nearly ten thousand cultivators present had varied feelings toward this. Some were eager, others apprehensive. They faced risks without seeing immediate benefits, causing many to resist the idea.


    However, since the opponent was a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator, and the other three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators seemed to tacitly approve of this arrangement, there was no room for objections.


    Fang Chen, in his divine soul form, looked fixedly at the old woman and the group of cultivators she brought, scrutinizing them. The old woman had already stirred up resentment and opposition among the crowd. After thepetition, those who didn''t secure a ce would surely feel aggrieved. If more treasures appeared in the Immortal Tomb, it could easily spark a chaotic struggle.


    Could this old woman be a member of the Spirit Blood Sect?


    "Even normal cultivators would act simrly; they wouldn''t let everyone present today enter the Immortal Tomb, as that would cause chaos. So, this request is reasonable..."


    Suddenly, Fang Chen''s thoughts shifted. Even without the Spirit Blood Sect''s involvement, everything was likely to descend into a chaotic battle. Perhaps the Spirit Blood Sect cultivators hadn''t acted yet and were merely waiting.


    "Adding fuel to the fire..." muttered Fang Chen.


    With this in mind, Fang Chen shifted his attention to the various cultivators of different levels and strengths around him. If he were a member of the Spirit Blood Sect, he definitely wouldn''t want to be the instigator of chaos as that would expose his identity.


    Adding fuel to the fire was both simple and highly covert. If the information received by Fang Chen''s colleague from the Killing Spiritual Division was true, then there were indeed Spirit Blood Sect cultivators present today. They were likely waiting for the situation to escte sufficiently before discreetly exacerbating tensions to incite a fierce battle.If the Killing Spiritual Division didn''t intervene, the conflict might end without anyone suspecting the Spirit Blood Sect''s involvement. While Fang Chen observed the various cultivators for any signs, they had already begun preparing for the contest.


    Only Qi Refining Realm cultivators were eligible for the contest; Foundation Building Realm and Golden Core Realm cultivators were excluded and had the qualifications to enter the Immortal Tomb directly.


    Despite the abundance of Qi Refining Realm cultivators present, those at or above the tenth level numbered close to three to five hundred. Unless unexpected circumstances arose, the two hundred spots would likely be selected from this group, effectively excluding Qi Refining Realm cultivators below the tenth level frompetitive eligibility.


    At this moment, a Golden Core Realm cultivator proposed a suggestion; those willing to participate in the contest should engage in an all-out brawl. The final two hundred standing would earn the qualification to enter.


    This proposal garnered both support and opposition. Figures like Elder Chai vehemently opposed it. Given that, among his disciples, only one was at the tenth stage of the Qi Refining Realm, a brawl was highly disadvantageous.


    On the other hand, the supporters were from sects boasting multiple Qi Refining Realm cultivators, some even at the eleventh or twelfth stages. To them, a chaotic battle had its advantages and merits.


    The old woman spoke slowly. "I think this method is appropriate and won''t waste time."


    The other three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators nodded lightly in agreement.


    Now that the four Nascent Soul Realms had agreed, even if anyone had objections, they could only swallow them.


    Chi Chong chuckled. ¡°Elder Chai, if your disciples and mine join forces and watch out for each other, perhaps we can secure a few spots.¡±


    Elder Chai''s eyes brightened slightly as he scanned Chi Chong''s disciples. Chi Chong had brought seven or eight disciples. The weakest of them was at the ninth stage of the Qi Refining Realm. There were even several of them at the tenth, eleventh, and twelfth stages! Their overall strength surpassed that of Elder Chai''s disciples by a wide margin.


    <em>If our two families can cooperate, my family will definitely gain an advantage!</em>


    Elder Chai agreed immediately.


    He stroked his beard, smiling. "That sounds excellent, that¡¯s great! We''re fortunate to have met you, Daoist Chi; otherwise, today''s trip might have been in vain."


    The Chai Family¡¯s disciples were very social and immediately struck up conversations with Chi Chong''s disciples, trying to build familiarity so they could cooperate better during the uing contest.


    "Our luck is really something else¡­ With Senior Chi''s senior brothers and sisters looking out for us, who knows, maybe we''ll be lucky enough to secure a spot," Chai Shun said excitedly, tugging at Fang Chen''s sleeve. "You see, it wasn''t wrong of me to invite you to travel with us. Since you can''t see, you can stick close to me during the contest, and I''ll look out for you."


    Fang Chen nodded with a smile. "Thank you, Brother Chai."


    Chai Shun chuckled. "Don''t mention it. If not for you, we might have taken a few wrong turns on our way here. Let''s help each other out."


    A tenth-stage Qi Refining Realm young man from the Chai Family overheard Fang Chen and Chai Shun''s conversation. He immediately stopped talking with the other disciples, turned to Elder Chai, bowed respectfully, and then said, "Elder, I have a suggestion. I see that Chai Shun and his group are only at the fifth or sixth stage of the Qi Refining Realm.


    "During the fight, they may not contribute much, and we would have to divert our attention to look after them. It might be better to have them observe from the sidelines."


    He paused and then looked towards Fang Chen. "As for Brother Dongfang, although his cultivation is higher, he is visually impaired, which could naturally put him at a disadvantage in the contest. It''s best if he doesn''t participate either."


    Chai Shun and several other Chai disciples were astounded. Was this person trying to deprive them of their chance to obtain their immortal fortune?


    Chai Shun eximed angrily, "Chai Long, it''s a brawl. What''s wrong with us participating? It could also increase our family''s chances of winning. The four Nascent Soul elders haven''t limited the number of participants, so why shouldn''t we be allowed to join?"


    "Yeah, Chai Long, this may be the only chance we will ever have in our life to obtain an opportunity like this. Don''t stop us," a few other Chai Family disciples chimed in.


    Chai Long replied calmly, "I''m not stopping you from obtaining immortal fortune. If I enter the Immortal Tomb this time and acquire anything, the Elder will distribute it among us fairly."


    <em>Fair distribution?</em>


    The few who had agreed with that suggestion immediately fell silent.


    However, Chai Shun knew Chai Long''s temperament and was aware of the rules of the Chai Family. If Chai Long really obtained any benefits, he certainly wouldn''t share even a bit with them!


    A female cultivator under Chi Chong¡¯s tutge slowly sped her fist in respect. She was the highest-ranked among them, at the twelfth stage of the Qi Refining Realm. "Master, Senior Chai, I think what Brother Chai Long said makes some sense. We''re going to be facing many Qi Refining Realm cultivators, so it''s best not to reveal any weaknesses. Only then do we have a chance of surviving until the end."


    Chai Long smiled slightly at her words, sped his fists in return, and said, "Senior Sister Mo Chou understands where I aming from."


    Seeing that the highest-ranked Qi Refining Realm cultivators on both sides were in agreement, Chai Shun''s expression turned quite unpleasant. He suddenly pointed at Fang Chen and said, "If we aren''t allowed to participate, then fine. But Brother Dongfang is at the ninth stage of the Qi Refining Realm, and he isn''t part of the Chai Family. You have no right to stop him."


    "If he insists on participating, we won''t stop him. But... he can''t expect us to protect him amidst the chaos," replied Chai Long softly.


    The Chai family elder exchanged a nce with Chi Chong before nodding slightly. "Chai Long makes a good point. This is a chaotic battle, and it isn''t suitable for everyone to participate."


    With that, he made the final decision. Chai Shun fell silent, his expression bing even more unsightly.


    Suddenly, Chai Shun clenched his teeth and said, "Elder, what if I insist on participating?"


    Chai Long frowned slightly.


    The Chai family elder looked at Chai Shun and said calmly, "Are you sure you want to go against our decision?"


    Chai Shun nodded. "This kind of opportunity for immortality¡­ If there''s even the slightest chance, I can''t afford to miss it."

 Chapter 544: Heavenly Evil Fruit

    The Chai Family''s ancestor calmly said, "If you insist on participating, I won''t stop you, but... Chai Long and the others won''t lend a hand to help you."


    Chai Shun smiled faintly. "That''s fine. I don''t need Chai Long and the others to help me."


    After saying that, Chai Shun walked straight ahead.


    Some Chai Family¡¯s disciples were eager to follow, but a re from the Chai Family''s ancestor immediately stopped them in their tracks.


    "Chai Family''s ancestor, I''ll take my leave now," said Fang Chen.


    He sped his fist toward the Chai Family''s ancestor before following Chai Shun.


    Chai Long''s eyes flickered with mockery before turning to the Chai Family''s ancestor. "Elder, shall we move out too?"


    The Chai Family''s ancestor nodded gently. "Go ahead."


    Chai Long and hispanions, along with Chi Chong''s disciples, proceeded forward together.The four Nascent Soul Realm elders had chosen an area for the Qi Refining Realm cultivators topete. By now, several hundred Qi Refining Realm cultivators had entered.


    When Chai Shun saw Fang Chen following behind him, he turned joyful. "Brother Dongfang, let''s watch out for each other during thepetition."


    Fang Chen smiled lightly. "Brother Chai, I don''t intend to participate in thispetition."


    Chai Shun was slightly stunned, a strange expression appearing on his face. "You''re at the ninth stage of the Qi Refining Realm. Aren''t you going to fight for yourself?"


    Fang Chen remained silent, simply taking out a talisman and handing it to Chai Shun. He said, "This is a simple talisman I made casually. If you''re in danger, you can try using it."


    Chai Shun didn''t recognize the true nature of the True Fire Talisman even though it was a high-grade, yellow-rank talisman with considerable power. He thought it was just an ordinary talisman Fang Chen made. After all, there were many types of talismans, and he couldn''t distinguish between them all.


    Chai Shun sighed in admiration. "So Brother Dongfang also knows how to craft talismans."


    He epted the talisman and stored it in his storage ring, thanking Fang Chen. After that, he asked again, "Are you really not going to give it a shot?"


    Fang Chen smiled and shook his head. "No, I won''t."


    Just then, Chai Long and his group passed by. Seeing this scene, Chai Long smiled faintly and remarked, "Brother Dongfang is visually impaired yet still can make talismans. Truly admirable. I wonder if this talisman can defeat someone at the third stage of the Qi Refining Realm?"


    "Chai Long, what does this have to do with you?" Chai Shun retorted coldly.


    Although Chai Shun shared Chai Long''s thoughts, he appreciated Fang Chen''s gesture.


    "It has nothing to do with me, of course, but Brother Dongfang is sensible. He knows his odds in thispetition aren''t high. On this point, you''re far behind him," Chai Long mocked coldly.


    With that, Chai Long didn''t loiter and followed Mo Chou and the others into thepetition area.


    Chai Shun''s face darkened slightly. "Brother Dongfang, this guy''s mouth is just filthy. Don''t take it to heart."


    He forced a smile to reassure Fang Chen before entering thepetition area.


    The Qi Refining Realm cultivators ranged from the seventh to the twelfth stage. When they saw that Chai Shun was at the sixth stage, a hint of disdain appeared on their faces as they looked away, treating him as if he were invisible.


    After all, they believed that someone like him couldn''t pose any threat to them.


    Half an hour quickly passed, and by then, all the Qi Refining Realm cultivators intending to participate in thepetition had gathered, totaling over eight hundred individuals. Their cultivations ranged from the sixth to the twelfth stage.


    However... the number of Qi Refining Realm cultivators at the twelfth stage was more than those at the sixth stage, as these minor characters were only a handful. Coincidentally, Chai Shun happened to be one of them.


    The four Nascent Soul experts nced at each other, and finally, it was the old woman who lightly waved her hand. Instantly, a prohibition formation enveloped the battlefield, forming a barrier to prevent the shockwaves of the battle from leaking out.


    "Let''s begin," the old woman said calmly.


    With hermand, a chaotic battle ensued. Fang Chen''s divine soul stood in the void, observing the group of Qi Refining Realm cultivators while also keeping an eye on the movements of certain individuals around him.


    At the beginning of the melee, Chai Shun immediately ran toward an area with fewer people, constantly vignt against any attacks directed at him.


    However, he and several other sixth-stage Qi Refining Realm cultivators found that no one was targeting them at all. The rest of the cultivators were focused on trying to eliminate theirpetitors,pletely ignoring them.


    A disappointed expression crossed Chai Shun''s face. He now realized that he didn''t even qualify to be theirpetitor.


    "Well then, let them fight. I''ll see if I can benefit from their actions," Chai Shun muttered, sitting quietly in a corner and observing the battle.


    Time passed by second by second.


    Many cultivators were defeated and eliminated from thepetition, and there were also quite a few casualties. Some cultivators were extremely ruthless, not giving their opponents any chance to surrender or beg for mercy.


    From the initial seven to eight hundred participants, now only three to four hundred remained on the battlefield, with the two hundred spots drawing closer.


    Some spected that the results could be determined within an hour.


    During this time, Fang Chen''s divine soul kept a close watch on the crowd in the arena, finally noticing two individuals who seemed a bit peculiar.


    The crowd was intensely focused on the unfolding battle, including the Foundation Building Realm and Golden Core Realm cultivators present, as well as the four Nascent Soul Realm experts. Those Qi Refining cultivators hailed from various ces, each employing a diverse array of techniques and methods in the melee. Observing these battles allowed others to gauge their backgrounds and capabilities.


    Gathering intel was crucial for cultivators, akin to how the Chai Family Patriarch urgently sought details on the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions. Some critical information could even determine life or death.


    However, the two Qi Refining Realm cultivators Fang Chen was watching not only ignored the ongoing battle but instead whispered in the rear. When Fang Chen''s divine soul found them, he stood quietly beside them, listening to their conversation.


    "Brother Wang, if we seed this time, we might receive significant rewards."


    "Indeed. Who would have thought that just two Qi Refining Realm cultivators could set up such arge scheme? If not for the Nascent Soul Realm cultivators present, we wouldn''t even need to report to the higher-ups. When this matter concludes, those higher-ups will surely be astonished and look upon us with newfound respect."


    ¡°Wait until the matter settles, then take away the opportunities from the Immortal Tomb. This time, it''s a two-for-one deal. Luckily, it was you and me who first discovered the tomb. No one could snatch away our credit."


    ¡°Fortunately, there''s this miraculous thing called the Heavenly Evil Fruit. Otherwise, it wouldn''t be so easy to plot against these guys. However, this item only affects those in the Qi Refining Realm and Foundation Building Realm. As for whether those in the Golden Core Realm and Nascent Soul Realm can be killed, it depends on fate.¡±


    The two stopped talking and continued to watch the battle with interest.


    ¡°Heavenly Evil Fruit?¡±


    With a slight change in his expression, Fang Chen withdrew his divine soul and immediately asked the Mirror of the Universe for information about the Heavenly Evil Fruit.


    ¡°Brother, it costs five hundred low-grade spirit stones¡­¡±


    ¡°It''s inconvenient now. I''ll owe you for now. I''ve already given you tens of thousands of spirit stones before, owing five hundred shouldn''t be a problem.¡±


    ¡°That won''t do, it''s the rule, and rules cannot be broken¡­¡±


    Fang Chen frowned slightly. His figure suddenly merged into the shadows. After giving the Mirror of the Universe five hundred low-grade spirit stones, he stepped out of the shadows again.


    Some nearby people sensed something amiss but dismissed as their eyes ying tricks on them


    ¡°Brother, the Heavenly Evil Fruit is very sinister. If someone consumes it, they will immediately be overwhelmed by evil energy and die. Their corpse will then be nutrients, continuously emitting the medicinal properties of Heavenly Evil Fruit.


    If those in the Qi Refining Realm and Foundation Building Realm smell it, they will also be affected. Though not fatal, they may turn into madmen. Nothing will be able to stop them from killing!¡±

 Chapter 545: Overkill

    Fang Chen frowned slightly. "There are actually such sinister herbs in the world?"


    The cultivators present probably had no idea that two Spirit Blood Sect disciples whose cultivations were merely at the Qi Refining levels were scheming against them covertly.


    "If the Spirit Blood Sect seeds, even if the truth is revealed, their deaths will be chalked up to the Immortal Tomb. No one will suspect that the Spirit Blood Sect had a hand in this."


    "Does the Heavenly Evil Fruit only take effect once consumed?" Fang Chen asked.


    The Mirror of the Universe gave a definite answer.


    "These two individuals wouldn''t sacrifice themselves, so... this Heavenly Evil Fruit may already be on another cultivator. Perhaps unaware of its effects, they would be manipted by these two to consume it at the opportune moment," Fang Chen pondered.


    <em>What would these two use to deceive a cultivator? And how confident were they that this cultivator would consume the Heavenly Evil Fruit when the Immortal Tomb opened?</em>


    When the tomb opened and the fruit was consumed, the source of the malevolent aura would blur, and the four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators would attribute the malevolence aura to the Immortal Tomb.


    Regardless, that person had to be found. If the Heavenly Evil Fruit was consumed, even killing those two Spirit Blood Sect cultivators would hardly prevent ughter and mayhem from unfolding.ncing at the prohibition spell in front of the Immortal Tomb''s gate, Fang Chen found that the spell''s aura was weakening. However, it would still take several days before the four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators could easily open it.


    Before the Immortal Tomb opened, Fang Chen had enough time to screen out the one who held the Heavenly Evil Fruit.


    The battle was already nearing its end, with more and more people being eliminated. The remaining cultivators were more or less injured, all cutting sorry figures. Outside the field, many Foundation Building Realm cultivators were already quarreling with each other, as disciples from one side killed disciples from the other, settling old scores. Simr incidents were numerous, and if they continued, emotions between both sides would reach a boiling point. If another Heavenly Evil Fruit were to add fuel to the fire, a bloodbath would be unavoidable.


    Several Chai Family disciples around Chai Long had been eliminated early on, leaving only Chai Long himself to fend off the enemy''s attacks with the help of disciples from Chi Chong''s Family. He could only rely on his skills.


    "Stop fighting, we have only about two hundred people left. Eliminating a few more will be enough!" someone shouted.


    Seeing this, several cultivators who were looking after Chai Long suddenly withdrew their support. As a result, Chai Long was hit in the chest by a Fireball from the enemy, sending him flying backward.


    He was eliminated.


    Everyone quickly counted each other, and now there were only about two hundred people left. Eliminating three to five more would be enough!


    Seeing this, everyone stopped fighting and returned to their respective camps, looking at each other warily.


    Chai Long covered his chest, staring at Mo Chou and the others with disbelief in his eyes. "Sister Mo Chou, you guys¡­."


    <em>Didn''t we agree to take care of each other?</em>


    How could they betray him like this?


    "Junior Brother Chai, the battle had went on for too long. I may not be able to take care of my own disciples and junior sisters." Mo Chou spoke softly, asking Chai Long not to me her.


    Chai Long''s face turned extremely ugly. He slowly got up and walked outside. Suddenly, as he was leaving, he saw that Chai Shun was still in the field, causing his face to turn even more grim.


    "Why are these few sixth stage Qi Refining Realm disciples still here? Eliminate them, and you won''t need to fight anymore," Chai Long said coldly.


    Although he knew Chai Shun would definitely be eliminated, being named by Chai Long in person still made the Chai Family disciples'' expressions unsightly.


    "Chai Long, you''re truly shameless," Chai Shun cursed.


    Chai Long snorted. "Shameless? I''m giving you a chance. Come with me, or risk getting killed."


    "Yes, eliminating them will just bnce our numbers," a cultivator responded after Chai Long''s reminder, looking at Chai Shun and the others with mocking smiles.


    "Enough, we concede."


    The other sixth stage Qi Refining Realm cultivators besides Chai Shun felt there was no point in staying and immediately conceded, turning and leaving.


    Only Chai Shun remained unmoved. He counted the people in the field. Including himself, they totaled 201.


    If... he could eliminate one person, he would qualify to enter the Immortal Tomb!


    Chai Long seemed to notice this too and couldn''t help but mock, "What? Are you daydreaming, thinking you can eliminate someone whose cultivation far surpasses yours?"


    Chai Shun ignored Chai Long, his eyes vignt as he stared at the group of Qi Refining Realm cultivators.


    After a moment, a tenth stage Qi Refining Realm cultivator suddenly smiled and said, "Since everyone is toozy to act, I''ll handle this little task."


    With that, he slowly walked toward Chai Shun. With a flick of his sleeve, a flying sword shot out, speeding straight toward Chai Shun.


    Chai Shun reacted swiftly. Immediately, he summoned his flying sword. However, after exchanging three or five moves with his opponent, his flying sword shattered into bits.


    Chai Shun''s flying sword was only a low-grade, yellow-rank treasure with six Soul Imprints, while his opponent''s had ten Soul Imprints, a significant difference in grade. Everyone had anticipated this oue.


    As his sword shattered, Chai Shun felt a sweet sensation in his throat, and a trace of blood seeped from the corner of his mouth.


    When his opponents saw that Chai Shun was at the end of his rope, he didn''t give Chai Shun a chance to plead for mercy and once again directed the flying sword toward him.


    The Chai Family members'' faces slightly changed; it was evident that Chai Shun''s opponent intended to kill him.


    "Even If I die, I''ll die with my head held high!" Chai Shun cursed loudly and threw out a talisman.


    Regardless of whether he lived or died today, he would never give up on this opportunity to obtain the immortal fortune!


    The mockery in Chai Long''s eyes intensified. He could regonized the talisman Chai Shun had thrown out with one look. It was the one Dongfang Haojie had given him.


    Leaving Chai Shun''s hand, the talisman transformed into a zing me, consuming his opponent. It then continued to ze as though it wanted to burn through everything in its path.


    After the mes subsided, all that remained on the ground were a few ck ashes and an ownerless flying sword.


    Chai Long''s mocking eyes froze, and his face stiffened with shock. The Qi Refining Realm disciples under Chi Chong were also astonished.


    <em>What talisman was so tyrannical?!</em>


    Chai Shun stared on in disbelief. He never imagined that the talisman Dongfang Haojie handed over to him would possess such power. He had only threw it out to see if luck would be on his side, but he had somehow ended up instantly killing his opponent, a tenth stage Qi Refining Realm cultivator.


    "A True Fire Talisman? Well done! It''s really impressive that you, a member of the Chai Family, coulde up with using a True Fire Talisman like this so casually! Hahaha!"


    A Foundation Building Realm cultivator, infuriated yet amused, nced at the Chai family patriarch, eyes gleaming with cold intent.


    "A True Fire Talisman? So that''s the kind of talisman it is. These are rarely seen. They are typically used to deal with Foundation Building Realm cultivators. That''s like using a sledgehammer to crack a nut."


    Whispers echoed around.


    <em>A True Fire Talisman?</em>


    Chai Shun couldn''t believe it. He quickly scanned around, searching for Fang Chen''s figure. He never expected Fang Chen would entrust such a valuable talisman to him.


    At this moment, Chai Long finally regained hisposure. He looked at Chai Shun, someone he had always looked down upon¡­.


    <em>He actually earned the qualification to enter the Immortal Tomb¡­</em>


    "Why would that guy help him!? Damn it!"


    Chai Long''s face suddenly turned incredibly grim as he searched the crowd for Fang Chen.


    The old woman spoke slowly. "Alright, the candidates have been decided. In a few days when the gates of the Immortal Tomb open, you will have the qualification to enter with us."


    The Qi Refining Realm cultivators snapped out of their shock, no longer paying attention to the deceased cultivator, instead expressing joy and excitement at their newfound opportunity.

 Chapter 546: Inquiry

    Fang Chen looked at the group of excited Qi Refining Realm cultivators. The Heavenly Evil Fruit had to be on one of them. Therefore, he wanted to see if anyone here had any connection with the two Spirit Blood Sect cultivators.


    With the people entering the tomb decided, the Qi Refining Realm cultivators returned to the side of their respective elders. As they walked back, not a single one of them even peered at the two Spirit Blood Sect cultivators.


    Running excitedly to Fang Chen''s side, Chai Shun thanked him repeatedly, "Brother Dongfang, was that a True Fire Talisman? Thank you so much! If it weren''t for that True Fire Talisman, not only would I not get a spot, I might have died under that guy''s sword!"


    At this moment, Chai Long walked over. He stared at Fang Chen for a while, his face darkening by the second. "If you have such a talisman, why didn''t you use it yourself? Why give it to a trash like this?"


    Mo Chou and the others also intended to return to Chi Chong''s side. Passing by them, they heard Chai Long''s question and stopped, both curious and puzzled.


    "Can someone actually be that foolish? Could it be that he doesn''t even know what kind of talisman he gave away?"


    "I think that''s what it is. How valuable is a True Fire Talisman? It is so precious even Foundation Building Realm seniors wouldn''t easily use it, much less give it away."


    They traded whispers among themselves, feeling that something was amiss.


    "I wanted to, so I did," Fang Chen said lightly. "The person you call trash now has a chance to enter the Immortal Tomb, while you don''t. That must be hard to swallow, right?"This sentence was like a dagger to the heart, making Chai Long''s already injured face look even more unsightly.


    Chai Shun couldn''t help butugh. "Chai Long, your jealousy is useless now. The spot has been decided, and it''s not your turn anymore."


    "Is it really decided?" Chai Long suddenly sneered. "You''re just at the sixth stage of the Qi Refining Realm. What can you bring back from the Immortal Tomb? I''m different. Just watch."


    With that, Chai Long walked toward the Chai Family ancestor.


    Chai Shun suddenly felt a vague sense of unease rise in his heart. Sure enough, the Chai Family ancestor approached slowly with his entourage.


    The Chai Family ancestor''s gaze was strange as he sped his hands toward Fang Chen. "Young man, I heard you''re the one who gave Chai Shun that talisman. I thank you in advance."


    After saying that, the Chai Family ancestor looked at Chai Shun and said, "You''ve earned a spot for the family, which is a great achievement. If Chai Long can bring back opportunities from the Immortal Tomb, you''ll be the first to receive a share."


    "Earned a spot for the family?" repeated Chai Shun in confusion.


    He felt that this statement was quite weird. However, he quickly realized what the ancestor was implying and his face fell with shock as he turned to look at Chai Long.


    Chai Long was looking at him with a smug smile, his eyes gleaming with satisfaction.


    Chai Shun hurriedly looked towards the Chai Family ancestor. "Elder, I was the one who earned the spot, not Chai Long¡­."


    "I know, but this spot belongs to the Chai Family. I intend to take Chai Long into the Immortal Tomb. Your cultivation level is too low. If such an opportunity arises again in the future, it will be yours to take," the Chai Family ancestor replied calmly.


    Chai Shun subconsciously clenched his fists. He failed to notice that his fingernails were digging deeply into his flesh.


    He stared fixedly at the Chai Family ancestor for a while before suddenly chuckling self-deprecatingly. "If such an opportunity arises in the future? Opportunities like this onlye once in a hundred years. Perhaps this is the only chance in my lifetime. Missing this one chance now means missing it forever. There won''t be a ''next time.''"


    The Chai Family ancestor furrowed his brow slightly. ¡°Are you¡­ refusing me?¡±


    "Senior Chai, fairness is important in all matters. Since this spot rightfully belongs to Chai Shun, it should be him who enters the Immortal Tomb," Fang Chen said calmly.


    Seeing Fang Chen speak up for Chai Shun, the smile on Chai Long''s face instantly faded. He coldly red at Fang Chen.


    The Chai Family ancestor smiled and looked at Fang Chen. "Fellow cultivator, this is a family matter. Please refrain from interfering. Since you were the one who gave him the talisman, my family owes you a favor. When the timees and we obtain something good from the Immortal Tomb, you will also have a share."


    Chai Shun forced out a smile. However, his smile carried more pain than a cry. "Brother Dongfang, you don''t have to speak up for me. Since the ancestor has made a decision, we can hardly change it. I wish ancestor and Chai Long sess in obtaining their opportunities from the Immortal Tomb."


    At that moment, Chi Chong''s voice rang out. "Young man, are you sure you don''t know Dongfang Su? With your cultivation, how can you hand out a True Fire Talisman? Hmph, to put it another way, even I don¡¯t have a talisman like that!¡±


    The Chai Family ancestor¡¯s thoughts spun slightly but before he could say anything, Chai Long yelled, ¡°Maybe he stole it!¡±


    Everyone was shocked. <em>Stole it?!</em>


    A look of contemtion appeared on Mo Chou¡¯s face and she slowly nodded. She also felt that Fang Chen probably stole it.


    Chai Shun was furious. "Chai Long, you have no evidence to back up your ims! You''re ndering him! How dare you insult Brother Dongfang like this!"


    "Whether it''s nder or not, it''s not for me to decide," Chai Long retorted coldly. "You keep calling him Brother Dongfang. This makes me wonder if you two knew each other before?"


    This remark raised suspicions among the crowd about the rtionship between Chai Shun and Fang Chen.


    "You can eat shit if you feel like it, but you can''t spew it out whenever you wish," Fang Chen said calmly.


    Before anyone could react, the aura of a Foundation Building Realm expert surged from Fang Chen''s body, swiftly overwhelming Chai Long and pinning him to the ground.


    The onlookers gasped in surprise. The Chai Family ancestor and Chi Chong exchanged looks, their expressions turning serious as they looked at Fang Chen.


    "Are you at the Foundation Building Realm?" Chai Family ancestor asked cautiously.


    "Why else would I refrain from participating in thepetition?" Fang Chen replied with a faint smile.


    Chai Shun watched on in disbelief. "Brother Dongfang is actually at Foundation Building Realm¡­."


    Finally, everyone understood why Fang Chen hadn''t participated in thepetition. They also understood why he had a True Fire Talisman and why he could afford to hand it over to Chai Shun. It was natural for a Foundation Building Realm cultivator to possess such a talisman.


    Chai Long, immobilized and horrified, tried to speak. However, under the crushing pressure of Fang Chen''s aura, he couldn''t utter a word.


    "Fellow cultivator, it seems there has been a misunderstanding." Chai Family ancestor awkwardly smiled. "Why don''t you release my junior first so we can sit down to talk."


    "Ten ps. I¡¯ll count that as a small punishment,¡± Fang Chen said calmly.


    "Alright, ten ps," the Chai Family ancestor agreed promptly.


    Fang Chen withdrew his aura, and Chai Long, bewildered, stood up. The voice of the Chai Family ancestor reached his ears. "You heard him; start pping."


    Chai Long fell silent momentarily before lowering his head and administering ten ps to himself, feeling deeply humiliated.


    Fang Chen didn''t spare him another look and turned toward the Chai Family ancestor. "When the Immortal Tomb opens, I will take Chai Shun with me. How do you feel about that?"


    The Chai Family ancestor looked embarrassed. "Well, um..."


    If Fang Chen had only been at the Qi Refining Realm, the Chai Family ancestor would have been able to brush off his demands. However, that wasn''t the case; Fang Chen was a Foundation Building cultivator. Not to mention, Chai Shun had been able to acquire a spot to enter the tomb thanks to Fang Chen''s True Fire Talisman.


    "Brother Chai, since they are both from your Chai Family, let''s not think too much about it," Chi Chong interjected, offering the Chai Family ancestor a way out.


    The Chai Family ancestor followed his lead and nodded. "Very well. Since you value Chai Shun so much, he must deserve this opportunity."


    Chai Long felt immense despair. He endured such humiliation and now even his chance to enter the Immortal Tomb was taken away?


    "Thank you, Senior Dongfang!" Chai Shun hurriedly bowed to Fang Chen, now aware of Fang Chen''s Foundation Building Realm status and refraining from addressing him as ''Brother Dongfang''.


    Fang Chen chuckled lightly. "No need to thank me. You earned it."


    Chi Chong opened his mouth to say something. However, Fang Chen didn''t care to hear it and turned around and left.


    Chai Shun didn''t hesitate to quickly follow right after him.


    "Hehe... Brother Chai, it seems a junior of yours has met quite the entric expert. Perhaps he has taken a liking to him and wishes to take him as a disciple," Chi Chong said with a low chuckle, staring at Fang Chen''s departing back.

 Chapter 547: The Art of Brainwashing

    <h4>Chapter 547: The Art of Brainwashing</h4>


    Finally, after several days of waiting, the prohibitive aura in front of the tomb''s gate weakened enough for it to be forcibly opened.


    The four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators each employed their techniques to break it. Once it dissipated, the tomb would open.


    Fang Chen didn''t find the person who carried the Heavenly Evil Fruit during these past few days. However, the two Qi Refining Realm cultivators from the Spirit Blood Sect had led him to the remaining members of their sect.


    Dozens of figures stood on a deste mountain several tens of miles away from ck Mountain Valley. They silently observed the scene near the tomb, their faces showing either faint contemptuous smiles or gloating expressions.


    Their leader exuded a condensed aura. He was at the Nascent Soul Realm.


    The rest were at the Golden Core Realm.


    Hastily arriving, the two Spirit Blood Sect Qi Refining Realm cultivators bowed respectfully to the Nascent Soul Realm cultivator. "We pay respects to you, Han Dragon Battle General."


    "No need for formalities." Han Dragon Battle General nodded lightly. "You''ve handled things beautifully. Will the n''s next phase go smoothly? Have you selected someone to consume the Heavenly Evil Fruit?"


    ¡°General, rest assured. That person believes the Heavenly Evil Fruit is a fruit of ascension to immortality. Under our deception, he is convinced that as long as he enters the tomb and consumes the Heavenly Evil Fruit, he will transcend into an immortal."


    The two Qi Refining cultivators seemed very confident.


    "Good. Once he consumes the Heavenly Evil Fruit, it won''t be long before these cultivators meet their end. We''ll clean up the mess when the timees," Han Dragon Battle General said with a faint smile.


    After a pause, he nced at the two men. "How far along is that matter? The sects within the Azure Dao Manor are plenty and every mortal wishes to ascend to be an immortal. We need to clean house every hundred years and the time is about to arrive. Will we be another to gather enough Blood Spirit Pills?"


    The two exchanged looks. One of them answered respectfully, "General, our master is personally overseeing this matter. It''s expected to yield results within a year or so. By then, we should be able to clear out at least a hundred ns. Calcting, with each n having tens of millions of people, as long as we receive sufficient manpower from above, we can form ten thousand Blood Spirit Pills in a short time."


    Upon hearing this, Fang Chen furrowed his brow slightly. <i>Is the Spirit Blood Sect also nning something within the Azure Dao Manor? And are these two Qi Refining acting on behalf of their masters?</i>


    "Your master is one of the talents the sect has focused on cultivating in recent years. As long as this matter is handled well, his ascension to the Golden Core Realm is imminent." Han Dragon Battle General nodded. "Has the senior of the Azure Dao Manor we came into contact with been taken care of?"


    The two quickly nodded to assure him.


    "Our master has made the necessary arrangements. With his temperament, as long as the benefits are sufficient, he will naturally turn a blind eye."


    "Hmm, in recent years, there have been efforts to suppress the Spirit Blood Sect, resulting in unsatisfactory yields everywhere. So, we must strive harder within our lineage to stand out, producing as many Blood Spirit Pills for the sect as possible."


    Han Dragon Battle General continued, "The more powerful we be, the more stable our lives will be. Our cultivation will also advance day by day. We strive for the day when we can leave this cursed ce and move to more prosperousnds, or even be dispatched to the second-tier empires."


    The surrounding Golden Core cultivators and the two Qi Refining cultivators showed longing in their eyes at the mention of being dispatched.


    They had long heard how abundant the lives of their colleagues outside were, easily obtaining vast quantities of Blood Spirit Pills without the constant fear of exposure and suppression. They, on the other hand, were walking on thin ice. As long as they could keep a small number of Blood Spirit Pills for themselves, their cultivations would skyrocket.


    There were numerous examples of Nascent Soul realm cultivators being dispatched for only a hundred years and easily advancing to the Middle Three Realms.


    One of the Qi Refining Realm cultivators suddenly looked toward where the Immortal Tomb was. Then, he looked worriedly at Han Dragon Battle General. "General, it looks like the Immortal Tomb over there is about to open. Should we call for more reinforcements, considering there are four Nascent Soul cultivators...."


    The Golden Core Realm cultivators around Han Dragon Battle General burst intoughter, their faces full of mockery.


    The Qi Refining Realm cultivator who spoke immediately realized his mistake.


    "No worries, it''s normal for a Qi Refining Realm cultivator to not fully understand Nascent Soul Realm cultivators. Those four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators are nearing the end of their lifespan. They''re nothing to worry about. Even if they were a hundred years younger, I could easily kill them," Han Dragon Battle General said lightly with a smile.


    Upon hearing this, Fang Chen knew there wouldn''t be a second Battle Generaling. Fang Chen stepped out from the shadow beside Han Dragon Battle General and thrust a sword into the back of his head. The sword emerged from the other side.


    Han Dragon Battle General''s spiritual barrier was as fragile as tofu in front of Fang Chen''s sword, and the terrifying sword intent instantly shattered his Sea of Consciousness and Nascent Soul. He even maintained the same faint smile as before, but the vitality in his eyespletely dimmed.


    "Who are you?!"


    The Golden Core cultivators around reacted with shock and anger.


    Before they could get an answer from Fang Chen, a breathtaking sword strike reaped their lives. In less than a breath''s time, one Nascent Soul Realm and nine Golden Core Realm cultivators perishedpletely. Only the two Qi Refining Realm cultivators were left alive, staring dumbfounded at the scene. Their figures had gone stiff with cold sweat pouring out profusely. They were utterly horrified.


    Fang Chen removed the storage rings from Han Dragon Battle General and the others, then turned to the two Qi Refining Realm cultivators with a faint smile.


    "Where is the Heavenly Evil Fruit?" he asked.


    The two looked at each other, their faces pale. "W-what Heavenly Evil Fruit? We don''t know..."


    Despite their fear, they still attempted to conceal the truth.


    "I heard everything you just said. So, where is the Heavenly Evil Fruit?"


    The sword he used was no ordinary sword. Even though Little Sword was still digesting a treasure, this sword''s owner had been a Soul Splitting Realm expert from the Innate Dao Sect.


    There were two Dao imprints on the sword. Even without using spiritual power to activate it, its sharpness far exceeded that of an ordinary peak-grade, yellow-rank flying sword. Its power even surpassed the current Little Sword.


    However, Fang Chen was still much too weak to truly activate a sword of this caliber. If he used it to perform the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture, the first strike alone could drain Fang Chen''s spiritual energy.


    However, when used normally,bined with the Shadow Buddha Technique, it wasn''t difficult to kill Nascent Soul Realm cultivators. Granted, they didn''t practice any special body-refining techniques or couldn''t detect him while he used the Shadow Buddha Technique.


    The two cultivators turned as pale as paper, with sweat streaming down their foreheads. "Who exactly is this guy...?"


    If he could easily kill Han Dragon Battle General, he had to be at least in the Nascent Soul realm, possibly even in the Enlightenment Realm....


    "If-if we tell you, will you spare our lives?" said one of the Qi Refining Realm cultivators in a low voice, clenching his teeth.


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "Of course."


    The two exchanged a nce, despair evident in their eyes. "You are lying, senior. You won''t spare us."


    After saying that, their eyes steeled with resolution. Suddenly, their eyes widened, and blood gushed from their seven orifices.


    Before long, they stopped breathing.


    Fang Chen frowned as he looked at the corpses of the two men. "They chose to die rather than take a chance at survival.... The Spirit Blood Sect¡¯s brainwashing has truly prated deep into their bones."


    Although he had killed the group of Spirit Blood Sect cultivators, as long as the Heavenly Evil Fruit wasn''t found, it remained like a ticking bomb, ready to explode at any moment.


    Just then, a loud noise came from the direction of the Immortal Tomb, and the visible aura of the formation spell dissipated abruptly.


    The gates of the Immortal Tomb were about to open.

 Chapter 548: The Three Divine Beasts

    <h4>Chapter 548: The Three Divine Beasts</h4>


    Fang Chen melded into the shadows and returned to the vicinity of the Immortal Tomb. Countless people were staring fixedly at the tomb''s gate, not daring to let their guard down. Chai Shun was no exception; he hadn''t even noticed Fang Chen''s brief disappearance.


    The four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators exchanged excited looks.


    The elderly woman among them was the one to speak up. "To gain the immortal fate, sacrifices must be made. Let those two hundred disciples of the Qi Refining Realme out."


    The crowd was momentarily stunned for a moment before their faces showed realization. This meant that the two hundred Qi Refining Realm cultivators would be the ones to push open the gates, acting as scouts.


    Everyone understood the elderly woman''s intentions, but because they didn''t want to give up such an opportunity, they didn''t refuse.


    Soon, the two hundred chosen Qi Refining Realm cultivators stood not far from the Immortal Tomb''s gate, their expressions a mix of nervousness and anticipation.


    Under the guidance of the four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators, they slowly approached and pushed open the gates of the Immortal Tomb.


    With a rumbling sound, the gates slowly opened. Perhaps having not seen the light of day for too long, a decayed smell immediately permeated the air as the gates swung open.


    Fearing that this strange odor might be harmful, everyone held their breaths, not daring to breath it in.


    After waiting about a quarter of an hour, everyone finally confirmed that there wasn''t any danger. The four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators exchanged smiles and led their disciples toward the Immortal Tomb.


    The Golden Core and Foundation Building Realm cultivators followed after the. As for the group of Qi Refining Realm cultivators, they had to be at the very end of the procession.


    The other cultivators who did not qualify to enter the Immortal Tomb could only watch with envy and jealousy written all over their faces.


    Seeing Chai Shun''s excited expression as he disappeared into the Immortal Tomb, Chai Long couldn''t help but clench his fists, his eyes filled with uncontroble envy.


    The tomb was very dark. However, fortunately, everyone who entered was a cultivator, so they could easily see the surroundings even in this pitch-ck environment.


    Upon entering, they found themselves in an exceedingly deep corridor lined with pirs that were so thick that several people would barely be enough to wrap around them. Those pirs were adorned with exquisite carvings depicting people, beasts, andndscapes.


    "Senior Dongfang, it seems this tomb has a long history, at least tens of thousands of years," observed Chai Shun, gazing at the carvings with awe.


    "Oh? You¡¯ve studied history?" Fang Chen asked, somewhat surprised.


    Chai Shun smiled awkwardly. "I used to dream that one day I¡¯d obtain the fortunes bestowed by ancient masters, so I studied for a while. Senior, look at those figures'' clothes. These ancient robes date back to at least a thousand years ago. Back then, Daoists favored wearing robes engraved with the symbols of the Three Divine Beasts."


    He pointed at one of the pirs, on which a Daoist was carved. He was engaged in alchemy, and his robe was adorned with the peculiar images of three beasts.


    "What do these Three Divine Beasts signify?" asked Fang Chen casually.


    Chai Shun became animated, exining, "Senior, ording to ancient records, the sects flourished in this realm tens of thousands of years ago due to their belief in the Three Divine Beasts. These beasts are the Azure Lightning Beast ''Cang'', the Sr Beast ''Mu'', and the Lunar Beast ''Ye.¡¯


    ¡°It is said that practitioners who believed in those three beasts could easily ovee the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions, and even grasp powers beyond the Five Elements.


    "From what it seems now, the owner of this tomb might have been an immortal from ten thousand years ago."


    Fang Chen''s gaze flickered slightly. "The Three Divine Beasts?"


    The Sr Beast called ''Mu''... Could it be rted to the Twilight Eye? He wasn''t entirely certain; terms in the cultivation world sometimes held vastly different meanings and bore no rtion whatsoever. However, at times, there existed a certain profound connection.


    Moreover, he had obtained the Twilight Eye from a practitioner of the Great Expansion Dao Gate, which prompted his spection.


    Unknowingly, several cultivators had gathered around, listening to Chai Shun''s exnations.


    "Friend, your junior here seems quite knowledgeable. It appears he has spent considerable time studying this," remarked a Foundation Building Realm cultivator with a hint of admiration. "So, it''s indeed usible that this tomb belonged to an immortal."


    Standing not far away, the Chai Family ancestor looked intrigued. Chai Shun was clearly a descendant of their n. Despite this, he couldn''t help but feel surprised at Chai Shun''s depth of knowledge, realizing he had never truly known this family member of his.


    "Young one, are you suggesting that the previous owner of this tomb was a Dao Sect member?"


    The question came from one of the four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators, causing a slight stir among the crowd.


    Chai Shun hadn''t anticipated that his words would reach their ears, let alone draw their attention. Nervous, he replied, "Elder, I dare not be certain. These are just things I''ve read in ancient texts..."


    The four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators exchanged looks before resuming their conversation, paying no further attention to Chai Shun.


    "The techniques of Dao sects are myriad and versatile. Since the owner of this tomb arranged it for himself, there should be some countermeasures left behind to prevent outsiders from entering. I think... we should inform some seniors about this and let them take charge?"


    "No. If a cultivator at the Middle Three Realms intervenes, we four may not get much. Since we''ve broken through the formation, it suggests that some of the tomb''s countermeasures should also have malfunctioned. It has been too long after all. Even if they are the methods of a true immortal, they might notst ten thousand years."


    "Yes, indeed. No matter what kind of measures they set up, they would undoubtedly require the use of spirit stones. Even mid-grade or high-grade spirit stones can''tst for more than ten thousand years without erosion."


    After some discussion, the four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators decided to walk deeper into the tomb. With such arge tomb, they were unwilling to leave without finding anything valuable.


    However, to be cautious, they arranged for the Qi Refining Realm cultivators to go ahead, followed closely by the Foundation Building Realm cultivators, then the Golden Core cultivators, and finally themselves.


    Many harboredints about this arrangement but dared not oppose it. Fang Chen, however, paid little attention. His focus remained on the Qi Refining Realm and Foundation Building Realm cultivators nearby.


    The Heavenly Evil Fruit could potentially be with either group. ording to the two Blood Spirit Sect disciples, the fruit only worked on Qi Refining Realm and Foundation Building Realm cultivators. Yet, even after entering the tomb, no one had attempted to consume any spiritual fruits. Perhaps someone was waiting for a specific response.


    No one knew how long it had been, but eventually, the group emerged from the deep and dark corridor to behold an ancient and quaint pce. Engraved on the central que of the pce were threerge characters. "Skinning Hall."


    The group was slightly startled, showing a hint of solemnity. "Skinning Hall?"


    This name clearly hinted at something sinister. This pce might hold danger.


    Just as they thought about it, a streak of green light swept out from the pce. The Qi Refining Realm cultivators at the forefront couldn''t dodge in time and were enveloped by the green light. The moment the light came into contact with them, they let out miserable screams. They were skinned where they stood. Their skins floated to the air like blood-stained cloths.


    Immediately, Their skinnded on the stone walls on both sides of the pce. The onlookers then noticed that the walls were carved with figures resembling young disciples. The pieces of skin merged into those carvings, and what should have been lifeless sculptures seemed toe alive, their faces contorting with pain. Their eyes opened, pleading for help from their elders.


    "Ancestor, save me!"


    "Dad, I don''t want to die!"


    "Master!"

 Chapter 549: Skinning Palace

    <h4>Chapter 549: Skinning Pce</h4>


    The cultivators were shocked, their faces leeching of blood quickly. They hastily retreated while several vivid red figures remained in ce. They were the skinned cultivators, their flesh exposed to the air, emitting a faint hint of blood. They were motionless like wax statues. It seemed as if their souls had been taken along with their skins, absorbed into the walls!


    The elders of these cultivators were horrified and quickly looked toward the four Nascent Soul Realm experts.


    "Elders, what is happening? Can they be saved?" one of them asked urgently.


    The four Nascent Soul Realm experts exchanged grim looks, shaking their heads. Even they didn''t know what kind of technique that was.


    "The members of this sect have truly mysterious methods..." one of them murmured.


    Chai Shun looked frightened, and he stuck closely to Fang Chen. He suddenly didn''t feel like venturing any deeper. Since they encountered this horror not too far away from the entrance, there had to be more perilous danger lurking inside!


    This was beyond what Qi Refining Realm cultivators like them could handle. Even the Nascent Soul Realm experts seemed uncertain. It was likely that not even they were qualified to participate in this matter!


    Fang Chen frowned slightly, slowly activating his Primordial Immortal Eye. Everything around him transformed into lines: the spiritual energy in the air, the pce, the skinless bodies, and the carved Daoist youths on the wall... all of them turned into lines.


    The lines of the young cultivators who seemed to be pleading for help showed slight fluctuations, indicating they were alive, while the lines of the lifeless bodies remained motionless.


    They were dead, and their souls were imprisoned within this wall.


    Fang Chen looked into the pce and faintly saw a ball-like mass of lines gently floating inside. This mass of lines gave him a strong sense of danger, likely the source of the green light!


    At that moment, the old woman spoke. "Since you havee here, do not fear these dangers. How can you obtain immortal fate if you hesitate? Several of you, go inside and take a look."


    Go inside and take a look?


    The Qi Refining Realm cultivators immediately showed fear, exchanging looks with each other, none daring to move. They did not want to be skinned alive and have their souls imprisoned in the walls. That was akin to being sacrificed!


    "Elders, I have a spection. Look at the twenty youths carved on the stone walls. It may require twenty pieces of human skin to pass this trial," Chi Chong slowly said, bowing to the four Nascent Soul Realm experts.


    Everyone quickly looked over and, indeed, twenty carved figures were holding dusting cloths on the sides of the main hall''s stone walls. If Chi Chong''s spection was correct, they needed at least fifteen more skinned Qi Refining Realm cultivators.


    The four Nascent Soul experts looked at each other briefly before eyes swept over the Qi Refining cultivators present, causing chills to race down their spines.


    Finally, a Qi Refining Realm cultivator couldn''t bear it and said to their elder, a Golden Core Realm expert, "Elder, I¡ªI don''t want this immortal fate anymore. I want to leave...."


    The old woman interjected, "Since you''ve entered, you shouldn''t leave. If you leave and spread the word about this, it will cause trouble for us."


    The Qi Refining Realm cultivator stiffened slightly, looking to their elder for help.


    The Golden Core Realm cultivator''s face showed a wry smile as he bowed to the old woman. "Elder, he won''t say a word. Since he no longer wants to seek the immortal fate, let him leave."


    The old woman nced at him but said nothing, the indifference in her eyes speaking volumes. The Golden Core Realm cultivator''s expression changed slightly. In the end, he looked at his junior and shook his head gently.


    The Qi Refining Realm cultivator stood bewildered, rooted to the spot, his face pale.


    the old woman''s eyes were sharp, scanning the Qi Refining Realm cultivators before her. "There are sacrifices in everything. This sacrifice may not be in vain. Once we obtain the immortal fate here, we will find a way to rescue you. It''s just being skinned, your physical bodies will be intact here. As long as we can return your souls, these external injuries will heal in ten days or half a month."


    She dered, "The fifteen with the lowest cultivation, step forward."


    Hearing those words, some looked rmed while others breathed a sigh of relief. Surely, those at the twelfth stage of the Qi Refining Realm wouldn''t be a part of them.


    Chai Shun felt his scalp tingle. He was at the sixth stage of the Qi Refining Realm, the person with the lowest cultivation here! He instinctively looked toward the patriarch of the Chi family, but the patriarch only sighed softly, saying nothing. Chai Shun knew the patriarch wouldn''t speak up for him.


    He then looked at Fang Chen, who remained unmoved, seemingly engrossed in observing something. Chi Chong despaired, thinking Fang Chen was subtly declining to intervene.


    Chai Shun''s face disyed a bitter smile. "If I had known earlier, I would have let Chai Long have this opportunity"


    Meanwhile, Fang Chen discreetly watched a figure. He was a Qi Refining Realm cultivator at the ninth stage, evidently among those with the lowest cultivation. At that moment, the cultivator was covertly taking something out and attempting to ingest it.


    ¡°Brother, it''s the Heavenly Evil Fruit,¡± said Mirror of the Universe.


    Without hesitation, Fang Chen swiftly moved to the person''s side, snatched the Heavenly Evil Fruit from their hand, and tossed it into his storage ring.


    The sudden action bewildered the fruit''s owner. He stared at Fang Chen in disbelief, unsure of what just happened.


    Fang Chen''s move also raised suspicions among the others. A Foundation Building Realm cultivator red at him and interrogated, "What are you doing? Why did you snatch our disciple''s item?"


    Finally, the Qi Refining Realm cultivator who had been about to eat the fruit pointed at Fang Chen with shock and demanded, "Give me back the spiritual fruit!"


    "What spiritual fruit?" Fang Chen countered.


    The Qi Refining Realm cultivator flushed red with anger. If it weren''t for the fact that the other party was at Foundation Building Realm, he would have already acted. That was his chance for an immortal fate!


    The Qi Refining Realm cultivator''s Foundation Building Realm senior eximed angrily, "You dare snatch our disciple''s spiritual fruit right in front of everyone here? Do you hold us in contempt?"


    "Yeah, why would I snatch a disciple''s spiritual fruit? What kind of fruit would be worth my trouble?" Fang Chen retorted. "Ask your disciple what fruit I supposedly snatched from him."


    The Foundation Building Realm cultivator hesitated briefly before turning to his disciple and sternly asking, "Tell me, what fruit was this? With all of us here and the four seniors present, we won''t let such a rogue go unpunished!"


    The ancestors of the Chai and Chi Families looked uneasy, and even Chi Chong appeared puzzled for a moment, his eyes wide with surprise. Meanwhile, the four Nascent Soul Realm elders furrowed their brows and scrutinized Fang Chen suspiciously.


    The Qi Refining Realm cultivator''s expression twisted with indecision. ¡°Um...¡±


    The silence prevailed for a while, the Qi Refining Realm cultivator unable to name the fruit. Gradually, everyone started to feel that something was amiss.


    Fang Chen addressed the four Nascent Soul Realm elders, "Elders, today we are not in an ordinary ce, but inside an Immortal Tomb. If someone does anything weird, it could implicate all of us."


    The four elders nodded softly. "Indeed. Given the circumstances, you all should only observe and listen. Don¡¯t do anything you are not supposed to."


    Then, the old woman turned to the Qi Refining Realm cultivator and sternly asked, "What were you about to swallow just now?"


    The Qi Refining Realm cultivator didn''t dare to say it was a fruit that would allow him to ascend. To save his life, he lowered his head slowly and replied, "Just amon spiritual fruit. I was scared and wanted to calm my nerves by eating one."


    "If it''s just amon spiritual fruit, would ten low-grade spirit stones suffice?" asked Fang Chen.


    He casually tossed ten spirit stones to the Qi Refining Realm cultivator.


    The cultivator nodded slowly. "It''s... enough."


    Everyone felt that something wasn''t quite right. However, as the circumstances didn''t allow it, they didn''t delve deeper into the matter. What they needed to do right now was select fifteen volunteers willing to sacrifice themselves.


    Seeing that no one was paying further attention to the incident, Fang Chen sneered inwardly. Regardless of whether Spirit Blood Sect cultivators were still lurking nearby today, he had obtained the Heavenly Evil Fruit. There was no longer any possibility of them using it to stir up trouble.

 Chapter 550: The Black and White Paper Figures

    <h4>Chapter 550: The ck and White Paper Figures</h4>


    The vicinity was filled with the intense sound of discussions as everyone delved into selecting the fifteen required candidates. However, before they could reach any conclusions, the streak of green light appeared again and skinned fifteen more people. These unfortunate souls'' flesh merged into the stone walls. Soon after, cries for help and screams echoed from the walls.


    The twenty carved figures started to look vivid and lifelike. The expressions on their faces were animated.


    The crowd looked bewildered. Many Qi Refining Realm cultivators breathed a sigh of relief. With the twenty required human skins gathered, their safety was assured.


    Among these twenty pieces of human skin was one from under the lineage of Chi Chong, exining why Chi Chong''s current expression was so grim.


    Mo Chou and the others exchanged looks and saw the deep shock in the other''s eyes. All of them were afraid now.


    "Enter the hall," the old woman said lightly. "When we leave, we will find a way to rescue them."


    Everyone looked at each other. They had no choice but to silently walk toward the hall, pretending not to notice the pleasing from the wall.


    The Qi Refining Realm cultivator at the front cautiously moved forward, fearing that Chi Chong''s spection might be wrong. Only after entering the Skinning Hall without incident did he finally breathe a sigh of relief.


    "What the...."


    The cultivator at the very front suddenly gasped in cold air. In front of the Skinning Hall sat two figures, one ck and one white. However, they were not living beings but paper figures. Their cheeks were brightly colored with a hint of eeriness.


    Just as they entered, the two paper figures suddenly opened their eyes. The white paper man smiled stiffly and stood up, saying, "So, we have guests. Please, have a seat."


    The ck paper man, however, stared coldly at the crowd, like a venomous snake.


    The Qi Refining Realm cultivators dared not sit down and instead quickly stepped aside, allowing the Foundation Building Realm, Golden Core Realm, and Nascent Soul cultivators to enter first.


    One of the Nascent Soul Realm cultivators stood at the doorway, hesitating to enter. His eyes were fixed on the two ck and white paper figures with a hint of fear. "Paper figures? Is this... the Spiritual Attachment Technique?"


    Fang Chen''s expression turned odd. "The Spiritual Attachment Technique?"


    So that was another use of the Spiritual Attachment Technique. These two paper figures before him were guardians of the tomb, specially crafted by the tomb''s owner using this technique along with some evil items....


    The white paper man smiled at the four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators. "Why aren''t you four entering? You''ve already given us twenty pieces of human skin; we won''t trouble you."


    Yet, the white paper man''s gaze involuntarily swept across Fang Chen. Others might not notice, but Fang Chen''s sharp senses allowed him to catch that.


    Fang Chen''s eyes flickered. "It''s peculiarly looking at me...."


    <i>Is it because I am a disciple of a Dao sect? </i>


    "May I ask if you two are the spirit servants of the tomb''s owner?" the old woman asked slowly.


    The white paper man smiled softly and nodded. Yes, our master left us here to guard this ce. It''s been many years since we''ve had living visitors like you. Otherwise, with your cultivation levels, you wouldn''t have been able to enter. Since you''re here now, please feel at ease and have a seat."


    With a sweep of its hand, numerous chairs appeared in the hall, enough for everyone present.


    However, no one dared to sit, not even the Foundation Building Realm and Golden Core Realm cultivators. Everyone was on edge, waiting to retreat at any moment.


    "This is the spirit ve left behind by the owner of the immortal tomb. Its strength is probably..."


    The white paper figure smiled. "Everyone, if we wanted to harm you, we wouldn''t have settled for just twenty pieces of human skin earlier. These are the rules set by the owner. Since you''ve offered the twenty pieces of human skin, you qualify to enter and sit down. Don''t you want to see what the owner has left for you?"


    The crowd''s expressions changed, seeming to find some logic in the white paper figure''s words. If they really wanted to harm them, why bother talking nonsense with them?


    Could it be that the owner of the immortal tomb knew long ago that one day their tomb would be found, so they left behind some inheritance?


    At this thought, many people''s faces showed excitement.


    "Please exin the reason so that we can be at ease."


    The old woman didn''t easily believe the white paper figure''s words; she needed some consideration.


    "The owner left behind an inheritance. We are responsible for guarding the first gate. If any of you qualify, you can obtain the Skin Peeling Technique." The white paper figure chuckled softly." This technique was extremely famous in the owner''s era. Just its name alone caused people to be fearful, and they''d tremble at the sight of it."


    <i>The Skin Peeling Technique...</i>


    Everyone immediately recalled the earlier scene.


    So, this was a form of technique inheritance?


    However... besides skinning, the technique seemed to imprison souls, with nothing particrly special about it.


    "No, no. Since it''s an inheritance left by a powerful figure, there must be something unique about it."


    Some people''s eyes were already filled with excitement. It seemed that these two were the ones who decided who would receive the inheritance, not the other four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators.


    A Qi Refining Realm cultivator suddenly walked to the nearest chair and sat down, eagerly looking at the two paper figures. After weighing the pros and cons, everyone eventually took their seats, including the four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators. In the end, only one person remained standing. He was none other than Fang Chen.


    The white paper figure smiled and said to Fang Chen, "You should sit down too."


    "No need, my legs are impaired. I can stand and listen," Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    the white paper figure reminded softly, "In that case, you may miss out on inheriting the Skin Peeling Technique."


    "If I don''t get it, then so be it. With my humble cultivation, mastering one or two techniques is already a blessing," Fang Chen replied calmly.


    Getting annoyed, someone impatiently said to Fang Chen, "Everyone else is sitting down. What''s the point of standing out? Hurry up and sit down so these two can start choosing who gets the inheritance."


    Fang Chen nced at the person and then sat down on the ground, saying to the white paper figure, "Please proceed. Consider me someone here today just to watch the excitement."


    The white paper figure nced at Fang Chen calmly, nodded gently, and then a group of paper figures emerged from the back hall. These figures looked like maids and servants, each holding a bronze tray with a paper robe on it. The robe was embroidered with three divine beasts.


    "These are the robes left by the owner. The owner said that in the future, if anyone enters the Skinning Hall, wears the robe, and perseveres for an hour, it will be considered fate with him and they will be granted the Skin Peeling Technique." the white paper figure chuckled softly. "You all may choose freely. The owner does notpel anyone to wear them."


    In front of Fang Chen, a bronze tray was also brought over.


    Fang Chen inspected the robe but didn''t actively reach out to touch it. He understood the principle of contentment and avoiding greed. He had already encountered enough opportunities.


    Sometimes, notpeting was a form ofpetition itself.


    As the others hesitated before their paper robes, they felt a sense of ominousness, as if wearing them would make them akin to funeral objects. Seeing everyone hesitate, the ck and white paper figures remained indifferent, sitting quietly in their seats, waiting.


    "Screw it!"


    Suddenly, Chai Shun shouted lowly and, in front of everyone, put on the paper robe. Immediately, he felt a deep sense of pain emanating from his heart. Various emotions surged incessantly, memories flooding his mind. Some of these memories seemed insignificant to him before, but after donning the robe, those emotions were magnified a hundredfold or even a thousandfold.


    Seeing that Chai Shun had fallen into a weird state where he was alternately crying andughing, the others'' expressions grew even more peculiar. They subconsciously looked toward the two paper figures.


    "He''s just experiencing the Seven Emotions and Six Desires. If he can endure for an hour, it will be considered that he has entered the owner''s favor," the white paper figure said with a faint smile. "His life isn''t in any danger. At most... his Dao heart may be unstable."


    Unstable Dao heart?


    The remark caused those originally tempted to hesitate and freeze in ce.

 Chapter 551: Deceiving the Heavens

    <h4>Chapter 551: Deceiving the Heavens</h4>


    What cultivators feared was an unstable Dao heart. If a cultivatorcked innate talent, relentless effort could perhapspensate for it. If a cultivator''s background was poor, a golden opportunity could maybe reverse their fate. However, if the Dao heart was unstable, it would pose a significant obstacle on the cultivation path in the future!


    Many cultivators became hesitant to wear the paper garment even more after hearing that information, fearing it might affect their Dao hearts.


    Despite wearing it for a short period, Chai Shun couldn''t bear it any longer and took off the paper garment, his face pale. He was covered in cold sweat and was on the verge of copsing.


    The white paper figure smiled lightly. "If the paper garment is removed in time, it won''t have too much impact on the Dao heart. It all depends on you."


    The thoughts of the crowd stirred slightly.


    <i>Since it could be removed anytime and looked seemingly harmless, perhaps it''s worth a shot?</i>


    At that thought, many people rushed to put on the paper garment one after another. Only the four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators remained still as they calmly observed.


    The voice of Mirror of the Universe rang in Fang Chen''s ear. "<i>Brother, the Skin Peeling Technique might influence your Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions.</i>"


    Fang Chen''s gaze flickered slightly as he suddenly recalled Chai Shun''s description of the ancient Dao Sects. "<i>You mean this technique can affect the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions?</i>"


    It was rumored that believing in the Three Divine Beasts would make a cultivator easily ovee the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions.


    <i>Could that be rted to the Skin Peeling Technique?</i>


    He could not imagine how such a bloody technique could rte to the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions.


    Mirror of the Universe began, "<i>I just checked it out. Those who undergo skin peeling appear to be dead by ending their own karma, but in reality, they are notpletely dead. As long as their divine souls return to their original bodies and new skins are grown out, they''re practically the same as before.</i>


    <i>"If one encounters the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions, they can make use of this special technique. There''s a high sess rate of deceiving the heavens and evading cmity.</i>"


    Fang Chen felt enlightened. "Are you saying...that this technique can induce a false state of death in cultivators and fool the heavens into believing that they are dead to avoid the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions?"


    After hearing the exnation, it all made sense. Without the Mirror of the Universe''s exnation, Fang Chen couldn''t have imagined that this blood technique could be used this way.


    <i>Did the owner of this ce know this too? No, they most likely do know. Why else would they treat this technique as an inheritance....</i>


    "<i>Indeed,"</i> Mirror of the Universe continued.<i> "That''s how it is utilized. If you can obtain this technique, it will greatly help you in oveing the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions in the future. However, in my opinion, there may be a disadvantage to this technique.</i>"


    "<i>Go on.</i>"


    "<i>If... During the process, the heavens discover that you''ve been deceiving it, all the cmities you previously avoided might descend on you at once. By then, even an immortal cannot save you,</i>" Mirror of the Universe warned.


    Fang Chen thought over its words. If he were to use this technique, he would have to use it fully. If there was any slip-up in the process, it could be discovered and led to all the cmities that had been avoided getting unleashed at once. When that happened, it would be difficult to escape.


    "It''s not necessarily something I must use now. It isn''t a bad idea to treat it as a backup. If I ever feel like I can''t evade the cmity, then I can use this technique to try and avoid it."


    With this thought in mind, Fang Chen wore the paper garment. He wanted to see if he was lucky enough to obtain the inheritance of the Skin Peeling Technique.


    When Chai Shun saw Fang Chen wear the paper garment, his eyes lit up with anticipation. Since he had no chance of obtaining the inheritance himself, he earnestly hoped Fang Chen would seed.


    After donning the paper garment, Fang Chen''s mind was flooded and overwhelmed with various scenes and emotions. To avoid drowning in this emotional swamp, he activated the Primordial Immortal Eyes.


    Golden veins extended in his eyes, filling his vision with a cold breath that permeated his entire body. Amidst this emotional onught, everything now seemed to turn into simple lines and patterns.


    Regardless of how these emotions surged, Fang Chen remained in a clear and calm state of mind. This was a characteristic he had discovered early on with the Primordial Immortal Eyes.


    Back when he was at Grand Qian, using the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture while in this state made him feel incredible. He had also realized that the Primordial Immortal Eyes could clear the user''s thoughts and keep emotionsposed.


    In other words, the Primordial Immortal Eyes had a stabilizing effect on the Dao heart. Since these emotions couldn''t affect him, Fang Chen''s calm thoughts had already shifted elsewhere.


    He began to ponder over the conversations the Spirit Blood Sect cultivators had earlier. It was clear from their words that the Prefect of the Azure Dao Manor was epting bribes and turning a blind eye to the actions of the Spirit Blood Sect. This was a significant issue. If the Prefect of the Azure Dao Manor was as powerful as Su Mo, he would be a formidable expert at the Dao Union Realm.


    Fang Chen had witnessed the methods of such experts before; even cultivators in the Middle Three Realms like Yu Doni were powerless against them.


    <i>This matter should be reported to the Killing Spiritual Division. If someone there holds a position in the court, they might intervene....</i>


    Unknowingly, nearly half an hour had passed. Many people removed their paper garments as they turned pale and were drenched in cold sweat. Currently, only a handful of about ten others remained, but their conditions were far from good, including the four Nascent Soul cultivators. They too had their paper garments on, but some were still seen sobbing while undergoing tremendous emotional tests. If this continued, it could affect their Dao hearts.


    Chai Shun stared nkly at Fang Chen, his eyes clouded with confusion. "Why is Senior Dongfang expressionless? Has he not experienced separation or death in his entire life!?"


    He wasn''t the only one who noticed this. Even the ancestor of the Chai Family and Chi Chong, who failed the test, realized how exceptionally calm Fang Chen was in this test.


    "Even the Nascent Soul Realm cultivators are struggling a bit. Why does he seem unaffected? Could this person be naturally suited for the Dao?" the ancestor asked Chi Chong curiously.


    Chi Chong shook his head, his gaze serious. Today, whoever obtains the current inheritance will soar to great heights. Immortal inheritances were not ordinary. Even if it was a deceased immortal, a Tribtion Realm Profound Immortal, or Profound Immortals from major immortal manors, such inheritances were still out of reach for them.


    "Doesn¡¯t it seem like he has a more stable Dao heart than those four seniors? How can he remain so calm in such circumstances?" someone remarked incredulously in disbelief as they noticed Fang Chen''s current state.


    As they had worn the paper garments before, they knew how terrifying the emotional swamp could be as it could easily submerge one''s Dao heartpletely. It was extremely astonishing to see howposed Fang Chen was.

 Chapter 552: Heavenly Abhorrence Technique

    <h4>Chapter 552: Heavenly Abhorrence Technique</h4>


    As time ticked by, the four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators could no longer withstand the assault of emotions on their Dao hearts and each of them hastily removed the paper garments. Their faces were deathly pale, and they seemed to have aged even more.


    After witnessing that, the disciples and followers of the four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators look toward Fang Chen. Why were their ancestors unable to endure it, yet this Foundation Building Realm cultivator seemedpletely unaffected?


    By now, the only person still wearing the paper garment was Fang Chen.


    The white paper figure looked toward Fang Chen and smiled lightly. "It seems that only he has the greatest chance of obtaining Master¡¯s Skin Peeling Technique."


    Upon hearing that, the crowd''s expressions turned even more peculiar. It was highly likely that the technique of the master of Immortal Tomb would fall into the hands of a Foundation Building Realm cultivator.


    ncing at the other three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators, a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator chuckled self-mockingly. "Hehe... It seems the rest of us don''t have such an immortal fate."


    The old woman frowned as she gazed at Fang Chen. Her eyes flickered with uncertainty as she remained silent.


    Chai Shun suddenly realized something and grew worried. "Oh no, if Senior Dongfang obtains this inheritance, won''t those four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators pursue him after we leave the Immortal Tomb?"


    If it was just a matter of them getting a small piece of the pie while others took the lion''s share, it would be bearable. However, if the Nascent Soul Realm cultivators got nothing and arge piece went to someone else instead, they would definitely not let him off easily!


    Thinking of that, Chai Shun was unsure whether to hope for Fang Chen to obtain this immortal fate or not.


    The ck paper figure who had remained silent all this while suddenly spoke coldly. "It seems like an hour has passed."


    "An hour? Time sure flies," remarked the white paper figure who nodded approvingly at Fang Chen. "He has already met master¡¯s expectations by enduring for an hour."


    The crowd exchanged looks before they looked at Fang Chen uniformly. Since both of them had spoken, it was evident that the Skin Peeling technique would be passed down to him.


    <i>Is it time?</i>


    Fang Chen casually removed the paper garment from his body and looked at the white paper figure. The crowd saw his gray-white pupils and it was only then that they realized he was disabled and suffered from an eye ailment.


    The white paper figure smiled broadly and along with the ck paper figure, they stood before Fang Chen.


    The two paper figures ced their hands on Fang Chen''s head. The white paper figure said, "Young friend, stay still."


    Fang Chen did not move, but he was prepared to eliminate these paper figures without hesitation if anything went wrong.


    The crowd watched as two streams of ck-white qi continuously flowed from the paper figures into Fang Chen''s forehead. The entire processsted for about a dozen breaths. Afterward, the two paper figures returned to their seats.


    "Young friend, we''ve passed down the Skin Peeling Technique to you. We look forward to your performance in the next two rounds and hope the master will favor you," they said in unison.


    The ck-white qi circled around Fang Chen''s forehead, faintly transforming into two yin-yang fish symbols before disappearing into his brow.


    Suddenly, a booming voice akin to the chimes of a great bell resonated in Fang Chen''s mind. "The Skin Peeling Technique peels away all karma beyond the Three Worlds and Five Elements.


    "As the saying goes, transcending beyond the Three Worlds and not within the Five Elements abhors heaven, hence it is known as the Heavenly Abhorrence Technique. Each practice carries immense karmic consequences so it must be used wisely and sparingly."


    Gradually, Fang Chen began toprehend that the technique was not about peeling the skin itself, but rather it was about peeling away the karma attached to a person''s skin. By severing past causes, there would be no more future consequences.


    To think of it, it was reasonable to be called the Heavenly Abhorrence Technique. In a way, it seemed to interfere with the way of the Heavenly Dao to a significant degree.


    If this technique were applied to a cultivator burdened with heavy karma, it could effectively cleanse and reset them to a state like a newborn baby. It was akin to aplete reincarnation.


    <i>This effect surpasses the Vast Origin Fruit. If a Dao Union Realm cultivator uses this technique before he faces tribtion, he''d be cleansed of all karmic hindrances, and he wouldn''t face any cmities before the Ascension Tribtion. He would be able to ascend continuously.</i> Fang Chen pondered.


    No wonder it was called the Heavenly Abhorrence Technique. If he was Heaven, he would also abhor such a technique. The Dao Sect ancestors who developed this technique were undoubtedly brilliant and remarkable.


    Fang Chen respectfully sped his fist. "Thank you both."


    The onlookers'' expressions grew increasingly strange as jealousy lurked in their eyes.


    "Your gratitude should be directed toward our master and not us. Alright, everyone, you may move on."


    The white paper figure chuckled softly as he gestured for everyone to walk toward the back hall.


    The four Nascent Soul cultivators stood up first, while the old woman inquired, "You mentioned there are two more rounds. Does that mean there are two more techniques to inherit?"


    "You can say so."


    The old woman continued, "Besides the inheritance of techniques, is there anything else that can be taken away?"


    The white paper figure answered, "You can''t take any of the vegetation in here outside, even a de of grass. You can only take away whatever our master allows you. Anything else, you can forget about it. Don''t overthink it too much and go on."


    <i>Can''t even take a de of grass away?!</i>


    The crowd looked disappointed. It seemed that taking a small piece of the pie today was out of the question. Their only chance at obtaining anything was by taking an entire pie.


    With two more techniques to inherit, obtaining them would also be a form of immortal fate.


    The four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators exchanged looks before signaling the crowd to proceed to the back hall.


    Along the way, the ancestor of the Chai Family and Chi Chong rushed to congratte Fang Chen while many Golden Core Realm and Foundation Building Realm cultivators tried to get close to him. They were hoping to glean some information about the Skin Peeling Technique from him.


    ¡°Young brother, since the master of this ce left this technique, it must serve a purpose, right? I wonder what the real use of this technique is?¡± a Golden Core Realm cultivator asked Fang Chen.


    The crowd stirred. The Golden Core Realm cultivator was a disciple of the old woman and his words naturally represented her.


    "Just another offensive technique to inflict more suffering on people," Fang Chen replied lightly.


    Many people looked skeptical.


    <i>An ordinary attacking method? Since the master of this ce ced such a technique in the first round, could he have been a ruthless killer in his lifetime?</i>


    The Golden Core Realm cultivator did not press further. He seemingly believed Fang Chen''s words and returned to the old woman''s side. The old woman scanned Fang Chen and asked, "Are you willing to be my disciple?"


    The other three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators who were deep in thought immediately reacted to her words. They stopped in their tracks and fawned over Fang Chen. "I was nning to take in a closed-door disciple. You can be my disciple."


    "Don''t listen to them. It''s best to be my disciple. I only have three disciples. With your addition, there will only be four. They have more than ten disciples each. They don''t have enough resources for you."


    "Young friend, I have a great-grandniece around your age. Perhaps you two can be Daopanions."


    Everyone understood that the four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators were trying to entice Fang Chen to their side to obtain the Skin Peeling Technique. However, agreeing to one would mean offending the other three. People were curious how Fang Chen would handle this.


    Fang Chen rejected them with a smile. "I appreciate your kindness, but I already have an inheritance."


    <i>He didn''t choose any of them.</i>


    Many people looked puzzled.


    Wasn''t this the worst way to respond? Wasn''t he afraid that these four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators would suppress him after they left the Immortal Tomb?

 Chapter 553: Hall of Radiant Light

    <h4>Chapter 553: Hall of Radiant Light</h4>


    "You already have a sect?" The old woman frowned slightly. "Which sect are you from?"


    "Heavenly Southern Sect," Fang Chen replied.


    The four Nascent Soul cultivators exchanged looks.


    Heavenly Southern Sect?


    They had never heard of this sect. Either it was an obscure sect or the young man was making it up.


    "<i>Let''s talk about this matter after we leave the Immortal Tomb</i>," one of the Nascent Soul cultivators transmitted his voice.


    The old woman and the others nodded lightly and beckoned for everyone to move forward.


    Passing through the long corridor, they soon arrived at another hall. Standing in front of it were the ck and white paper figures.


    The old woman looked puzzled. "It''s them again..."


    The white paper figure smiled faintly. "Everyone, we meet again."


    Quickly, Fang Chen noticed that the que above the hall read ¡°Hall of Radiant Light."


    <i>Hall of Radiant Light? Radiant Divine Eyes?</i>


    Fang Chen turned a little surprised. <i>Could it be a coincidence?</i>


    "My Lord, do you know if there are any dangers in this hall?" the old woman asked cautiously as she scanned her surroundings.


    The white paper figure''s smile widened. "It''s not particrly dangerous; just rules the master set. Please proceed."


    Proceed?


    The cultivators looked at the hall with deep apprehension. Since the paper figure mentioned that the master of the Immortal Tomb had set rules, this hall had to resemble the Skinning Hall, requiring sacrifices.


    The present Qi Refining Realm cultivators regretted it deeply. If they had known the Immortal Tomb was so bizarre and creepy, they wouldn''t have entered to begin with. Now, they had to face unknown dangers with no benefits in sight.


    "By the way, this time it should be those at the Foundation Building Realm who step up first," the white paper figure suddenly added.


    Foundation Building Realm cultivators first?


    The Qi Refining Realm cultivators were initially shocked, but they quickly heaved sighs of relief one after another in delight.


    They finally wouldn''t have to take the lead!


    On the other hand, the present Foundation Building Realm cultivators immediately felt like retreating.


    "My Lord, how many Foundation Building Realm cultivators are needed?" the old woman asked thoughtfully.


    "One will suffice," the white paper figure answered.


    Many Foundation Building Realm cultivators immediately rxed, especially those at the peak of Foundation Building as they reckoned it would not be them.


    "Everyone, I think this Daoist has already gotten an inheritance from the master of this ce earlier. Perhaps it''s safer for him to go first," Chi Chong suddenly suggested.


    The rest nodded in agreement. "That makes sense."


    The old woman looked at Fang Chen and persuaded him, "He''s right. You''ve already obtained an inheritance from the master of this ce, proving you have fate with this ce. It should be safe for you to go first."


    The other three Nascent Soul cultivators nodded in agreement.


    The other Golden Core and Foundation Building Realm cultivators also urged Fang Chen to go first.


    It was clear to everyone that they wanted Fang Chen to take the risk first, though they did not explicitly say so.


    Fang Chen stared at the words ¡°Radiant Light¡± on the que. To everyone else, he seemed to be afraid to step forward. They continued to persuade him.


    No one noticed that his eyes were emitting an eerie blue light. He hadn''t activated the Radiant Divine Eyes but yet they opened on their own, as if attracted by some mysterious force. He felt a sense of uncontroble pull and began walking forward.


    The crowd fell silent instantly as they watched nervously.


    One step... two steps.... As Fang Chen approached the front of the hall, the blue light in his eyes intensified.


    Suddenly, a golden ray shot out from inside the hall and hovered before him.


    It was an eyeball. The aura it emitted was exactly like that of the Twilight Eye!


    Upon seeing the blue light in Fang Chen''s eyes, the stoic ck and white paper figures were startled. Since the Twilight Eye had chosen Fang Chen, they did not find it strange.


    "Where did this eyeballe from..."


    The crowd looked wary, treating the Twilight Eye as if it were a dangerous object. The four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators were no exception.


    Unexpectedly, the white paper figure suddenlyughed, "Excellent! You''ve passed the second test. The master said only one person is required to pass this test."


    "He p-p-passed?!"


    Everyone was confused, with some not quite grasping what had just happened. Initially, they thought the requirement was for a Foundation Building Realm cultivator to step forward, but in reality... it was for this Foundation Building Realm cultivator to begin the test!?


    The white paper figure smiled faintly at Fang Chen. "Put it away. Although you already have one, you''ll need two more to unlock the Fourth Realm in the future."


    Fang Chen gently stashed the Twilight Eye away. He did not expect to pass the test so easily. What the white paper figure said further confirmed his belief that this test¡¯s inheritance was indeed the Radiant Divine Eyes.


    "If the second test in the Hall of Radiant Light represents the Sun God Beast, could the first test be the Moon God Beast? As for the third test...it might be the Thunder God Beast?"


    A wave of spection surged from the depths of Fang Chen''s heart. Suddenly, he grew interested in the Immortal Tomb.


    The old woman''s expression turned somewhat grim. "My Lord, is this the end of the second test? We...won''t get a chance?"


    The white paper figure smiled and nodded. "Indeed, you won''t be. Perhaps you can strive for the third test."


    "If I had known earlier, I would have gone for it," someonemented.


    "This guy is so lucky to obtain two inheritances in a row."


    "Perhaps this test is a test of courage? If we hadn''t been so afraid and stepped up, maybe the oue would''ve been different."


    The expressions of the Foundation Building cultivators grew even stranger. They kept thinking that Fang Chen had lucked out. If they had known this was a test of courage, they wouldn''t have acted timidly and instead made the first move. Perhaps they would''ve been the ones to obtain the inheritance.


    Fang Chen suddenly turned and bowed to Chi Chong as a form of gratitude. "It is all thanks to Daoist Chi''s reminder that I was able to obtain this inheritance."


    Chi Chong forced a smile. "It''s nothing, really."


    Many Foundation Building cultivators looked at Fang Chen as they secretly wished for the worst for him.


    "This might not necessarily be a good thing for him...."


    How could the four Nascent Soul cultivators allow one Foundation Building cultivator to snatch two of the Immortal Tomb''s inheritances? Perhaps once they leave this ce, the person would die immediately. Even if he didn''t die, he wouldn''t end up too well!


    "Everyone, let''s proceed to the next test. This is the final one. Oncepleted, you can all leave this ce," said the white paper figure.


    This time, nobody hesitated. They all moved through the hall quickly to the next test.


    As they walked through the deep corridor, Fang Chen felt many people secretly sizing him up. He naturally understood what was on their minds but did not pay much attention to them.


    However, he found himself interested in Chi Chong. It was clear that Chi Chong had intended to harm him although they had no conflicts. In the beginning, Chi Chong did ask if he knew about Dongfang Suo. Could this be the reason why he did that?


    If Fang Chen''s guess was correct, Chi Chong was from the Spirit Blood Sect.


    Since Chi Chong had already revealed himself, it saved Fang Chen some trouble.


    Soon, the group arrived at another pce hall. To the surprise of no one, the ck and white paper figures stood at the entrance.


    "My Lord, may I ask if the test will begin immediately or...?" the old woman asked.


    the white paper figure smiled and began, "For this test, the master left behind a Lightning Gate Technique. The conditions for practicing the Lightning Technique are very stringent, and so the test will be dangerous. Those willing to participate can step forward. Those who are unwilling can leave now."


    <i>Lightning Technique?</i>


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. It was close to his previous spection. The three inheritances the master of the Immortal Tomb left behind corresponded to the three Divine Beasts that Chai Shun mentioned.


    If Chai Shun had known that the eye before was the Twilight Eye, he might have guessed this point as well. Unfortunately, even if a Qi Refining cultivator had heard of it before, he would not have truly seen the Twilight Eye.

 Chapter 554 Complete Second Realm of the Radiant Divine Eyes

    <h4>Chapter 554 Complete Second Realm of the Radiant Divine Eyes</h4>


    Everyone''s spirits were lifted. "The third inheritance is the Lightning Technique!"


    The first inheritance, the Skin Peeling Technique, did not interest them. As for the second inheritance, they couldn''t see through what it was.


    However, just the two words "Lightning Technique" were enough for everyone to put their lives on the line.


    In the cultivation world, lightning was recognized as the foremost type of attacking energy. The status of Lightning Technique wielders surpassed that of even sword cultivators.


    "This test may cost your life. Consider it carefully," the white paper figure warned while calmly assessing everyone. Its gaze lingered more on Fang Chen.


    "Your lordship, could you tell us what this test would be like?" the old woman asked thoughtfully.


    The white paper figure smiled. "Noments. You''ll know when the timees."


    For a moment, everyone found it difficult toe to a decision. They had already missed two immortal fates and this was theirst chance. If they missed it again, they would have to leave empty-handed.


    However, some remained rational enough. They knew they had no chance to obtain the Lightning Technique inheritance. Even if they did, they might not be able to leave safely so they chose to leave.


    Before the old woman and others could stop them from leaving, they saw the ck paper figure give them a look of stern warning.


    Seeing this, they did not dare to block their way. They were fearful and suspicious of these two ck and white paper figures.


    Fifteen minutester, only a few hundred cultivators remained while the rest left, including Chi Chong and the ancestor of the Chai Family.


    ¡°Since you have chosen to stay, it means you have weighed your decision carefully. In that case, please proceed,¡± the white paper figure said.


    Some gritted their teeth and walked forward directly. The others intended to see what the person would face in this test. Suddenly, thunder rumbled overhead, and thick ck clouds swiftly enveloped the sky.


    "Is this a Lightning Tribtion?!" someone eximed in shock and immediately turned to run. "I''m not participating anymore! This is clearly sending me to my death!¡±


    The ck paper figure showed an eerie smile and coldly said, "Once you have epted the test, you cannot leave until the results are out."


    With a light gesture, it effortlessly captured the fleeing person.


    "Senior, how do we pass the test? Is this Lightning Tribtion rted to the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions?" Fang Chen asked respectfully.


    Before the white paper figure could respond, the ck paper figure turned its gaze toward Fang Chen and calmly said, "The Lightning Technique our master left ispletely unrted to the Lightning Tribtion. It won''t seek out individuals based on their karma. As long as you can endure under the Lightning Technique for one minute, you will pass the test."


    Fang Chen''s eyes shimmered with a strange blue light as he voluntarily activated his Radiant Divine Eyes, making the five elements around instantly clear and visible.


    At this moment, the lightning energies in the dark clouds above him seemed to be umting immense power! Once they descend, it would be nearly impossible for ordinary people to withstand its might!


    He had previously experienced the Innate Five Lightning Art of the Innate Dao Sect but it was different from the Spiritual Attachment Technique. Despite several attempts, Fang Chen had yet to sessfully master it.


    Although he could see the lightning energies and feel them distinctly, he couldn''t manipte them or make use of them.


    "Could it be that the second realm of my Radiant Divine Eyes is iplete? Back then, I only obtained a single Twilight Eye and not a pair..."


    With that in mind, Fang Chen immediately took out the Twilight Eye and swallowed it whole. True enough, after the Twilight Eye entered his stomach, a strange power began to breed within his body. It was like a warm stream continuously flowing into his eyes.


    The old woman and the other four Nascent Soul cultivators finally noticed what Fang Chen had done, leaving them shocked and furious.


    "He cultivates an eye technique!? He swallowed the eye from the second test just now!?"


    On one hand, they were shocked because eye techniques were rare. Even they hadn''t had the chance to delve into such types of arts.


    On the other hand, they were furious because they wouldn''t be able to snatch the eye from Fang Chen''s hand after they left this ce now that he had swallowed it!


    "The eyeball may be rted to his eye technique. Was the inheritance from the second test a form of eye technique?"


    With this thought in mind, the four instantly regretted missing out on such a significant opportunity!


    "This feeling..."


    Gradually, Fang Chen felt that he had a special reaction to the surrounding spiritual energy. It was as if he had be the king and the five element energy had be the ministers.


    In this rtionship, the lightning energy was like a dissatisfied feudal lord who he could not manipte. Now, he could secretly feel the connection between him and the lightning energy. Just then, a roar erupted and soon extensive lightning devoured everyone.


    Instantly, countless screams echoed one after another. Whether it was the Qi Refining Realm cultivators, Foundation Building Realm cultivators, Golden Core Realm cultivators, or even the four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators, they all appeared extremely pathetic. The spiritual energy barriers around their bodies were utterly inadequate to withstand the attack of lightning energies.


    Only Chai Shun, who was standing beside Fang Chen remainedpletely unscathed. He stood there dumbfounded, unable to believe what he had just witnessed. When the lightning technique had descended, it clearly targeted him as well. However, at thest moment, it veered away and chose the others instead.


    Fang Chen exhaled a long breath as his internal spiritual energy was almost instantly depleted. He had indeed established some form of connection with the lightning energies earlier and used it to control its trajectory. However, unlike the five elements, controlling the lightning energy was very difficult. Even the metal element energy, which was the most difficult to control, appeared like a child before the lightning energy.


    As his cultivation was gradually recovering within him, the dark clouds in the sky continued to gather lightning energy frenziedly, its intensity surpassing that of before!


    "Leave. I can protect you once, but not a second time," Fang Chen whispered to Chai Shun.


    "Thank you, Senior Dongfang!" Chai Shun expressed his gratitude and promptly turned to leave.


    This time, the ck paper figure did not obstruct him, as he had already participated in the test.


    "I''m getting out of here too!"


    "Goodbye everyone, I''m leaving."


    Many people scrambled to their feet in distress, their faces filled with terror as they fled outside.


    The first strike of lightning technique had caused them serious internal injuries. Another strike would have been unbearable for anyone. Some were merely injured and some unlucky souls had already perished under the first round of tests, their bodies charred....


    In the end, only a few dozen remained here to continue the test, including the four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators and some Golden Core Realm and Foundation Establishment Realm cultivators. Naturally, Fang Chen also remained.


    The old woman suddenly pointed at Fang Chen, looking toward the white paper person. "If this is a test, why didn''t the lightning strike him just now?"


    "This is the test," the white paper person smiled faintly, leaving the old woman and others puzzled by his words.


    Before they could ask further, the second lightning strike arrived. This time, Fang Chen once again depleted his internal spiritual energy, barely deflecting the lightning.


    Seeing Fang Chen evade the lightning strikes twice, the old woman and the others were not fools; they vaguely understood the purpose of this test.


    The old woman and others looked at Fang Chen with solemn eyes. "He can manipte the power of lightning!"

 Chapter 555: Azure Lightning

    <h4>Chapter 555: Azure Lightning</h4>


    While the old woman and others outwardly appeared calm about Fang Chen''s ability to influence lightning energy, their minds were actually in turmoil.


    This ability was even more surprising than inheriting the Lightning Technique itself.


    Knowing the Lightning Technique didn''t mean a cultivator could control lightning energy. That was apletely different matter altogether. Even if a cultivator understood the technique, if their opponent hurled a bolt of lightning at them, they''d still need to dodge, as getting hit could still be fatal.


    However, if someone could directly influence lightning energy, they could potentially redirect an enemy''s lightning bolt, or even turn it against them!


    After the second wave of lightning, all the Golden Core Realm cultivators chose to withdraw from the trial. Those who couldn''t choose had already perished in this test. Now, only the four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators and Fang Chen remained standing.


    One of the Nascent Soul Realm cultivators suddenly said to Fang Chen, "Young friend, if you withdraw from this trial, I will grant you a path to the heavens after we leave!"


    "That''s right. Give way to thisst inheritance for us. With your cultivation level, two inheritances are already enough. Any more... any more and you might not be able to keep them," another Nascent Soul Realm cultivator echoed.


    The remaining two didn''t speak, but their gaze toward Fang Chen carried an implicit threat.


    Fang Chen smiled faintly and pointed to the dark clouds overhead. "If you have the time to talk with me, why not spend it thinking about how to withstand this third lightning trial?"


    The first two trials had already left the four of them in a sorry state. The third trial was likely to devastate thempletely. Seeing that Fang Chen was unwilling to withdraw from the test, the expressions of the four cultivators became extremely grim.


    They fell silent and began preparing to face the third lightning trial.


    Thunder roared ominously, sending shivers through everyone even before the lightning descended. The danger felt like a razor''s edge scraping against their skin.


    <i>Boom!</i>


    Finally, the lightning bolt struck down. The four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators immediately used their respective treasures to resist, but the blinding light of the lightning engulfed them. When the light subsided, the four appeared, charred all over. They crawled out of the field with their treasures shattered and scattered around.


    In contrast, Fang Chen, though somewhat battered, managed to evade the third lightning bolt.


    The white paper figure smiled. "Are the four of you withdrawing?"


    "We withdraw!"


    The four gritted their teeth, struggling to stand up as they supported each other and left. Before departing, they peered back and shot Fang Chen a look, seeming to memorize his appearance.


    With that, only Fang Chen was left in the vast area, and the dark clouds in the sky quietly dissipated.


    Sensing the shift, the old woman paused briefly before hurriedly asking, "Has the test ended?! Since the test has ended, does that mean we have also passed the test?"


    The white paper figure pointed at Fang Chen, smiling lightly. "You? You have not passed. Only the best performer in the test has passed."


    "You all should leave quickly," the ck paper figure said darkly.


    The four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators looked grim and did not linger any longer as they swiftly departed, feeling dissatisfied. Once they left, both the ck and white paper figures scrutinized Fang Chen.


    After a moment''s pause, the white paper figure smiled and said, "You possess the inheritance of a Dao Sect. Which Dao Master do you study under?"


    "Dao Master?" Fang Chen''s gaze flickered slightly. After a moment, he decided to try and test the waters. "My inheritancees from Senior Yun He."


    "Yun He?" The white paper figure''s eyes showed a hint of contemtion. "I have never heard of this name."


    "We are not interested in your master''s name," the ck paper figure interjected calmly. "We are interested in the strongest cultivator of your inheritance."


    "Wait." The white paper figure''s gaze suddenly became serious. "Are you cultivating the Introduction to Three Thousand Daos?"


    The ck paper figure also paused, bing just as serious.


    Fang Chen nodded. "Yes."


    A hint of suspicion began to brew in Fang Chen''s heart.


    <i>Could these two paper figures be isted from the world? Otherwise, if they were from his time, Senior Yun He might not have even appeared yet. How could they guess that he practiced the Introduction to the Three Thousand Daos?</i>


    Seeing Fang Chen nod, the expressions of the ck and white paper figures became even more serious. The white paper figure promptly pulled out a bronze mirror and aimed it at Fang Chen.


    "We need to examine your immortal veins."


    Fang Chen became slightly wary. "Seniors, why is this necessary?"


    Their demeanor seemed to have changed drastically, and he couldn''t tell if it was for better or worse.


    "You will understand shortly," the white paper figure replied, holding up the bronze mirror and directing it at Fang Chen.


    In the next moment, a faint glow began to emanate within the mirror. The color of this light was indescribable, resembling a primordial clear aura, swirling across the surface of the bronze mirror.


    The white paper figure murmured, ¡°Source of Authority...."


    The ck paper figure''s gaze toward Fang Chen underwent aplete transformation. Initially cold and stern, it now held a subtle but unmistakable reverence.


    "Our master didn''t miscalcte after all... It seems we''ve waited so many years, and finally, we''ve found someone capable of inheriting his inheritance," the white paper figures said with a hint of joy, looking towards the ck paper figure.


    The ck paper figure nodded gently in agreement. "We no longer need to wait here."


    The white and ck paper figures respectfully bowed to Fang Chen suddenly. "Master!"


    Fang Chen was taken aback. "Master?"


    <i>What''s happening? Are they acknowledging me as their master?</i>


    Fang Chen hesitated for a moment before asking. "If there is something I should know, tell me. What exactly is going on?"


    "It seems the young master is naturally cautious, which is a good thing," the white paper figure subtlyplimented.


    After that, the white paper figure began to exin in a low voice. "To be frank, this Immortal Tomb has opened before. Every thousand years, we follow the will of our master and open the tomb in anticipation of someone who can truly inherit master¡¯s inheritance."


    The ck paper figure continued where it left off, "Over the years, we have found and chosen three people; however, none of them was the true inheritor master was waiting for.


    "But you, with your solid foundation, effortlessly passed through the three divine trials, bing the true inheritor of the Dao Sect that the Master has been waiting for."


    Fang Chen''s eyes flickered with curiosity. ¡°Three divine trials? Are you referring to the three tests I just underwent?¡±


    The white paper figure nodded. "Exactly. These three tests represent the Three Divine Beasts. The Azure Lightning God Beast, the Twilight Sun Beast, and the Yin Lunar God Beast.


    "For true disciples of the Dao Sect, if they cannot pass these three trials, they can never truly enter the sect. At most, they are considered outer disciples.


    "However, you are different. Not only did you easily pass these three trials, but you alsoid down a foundation that is extremely beneficial for Dao cultivation. Even when Master was still alive, a foundation like that was rarely seen."


    The ck paper figure looked at the white paper figure and asked, "Master''s own foundation back then was equivalent to Gold of Supremacy of the Introduction to Three Thousand Dao, right?"


    The white paper figure nodded softly in response.


    After that, a jade slip appeared in the white paper figure''s hand. It said, "Young Master, this is the Azure Lightning Technique representing the Azure Lightning God Beast."


    The white paper figure approached Fang Chen and respectfully handed him the jade slip containing the Azure Lightning Technique. "You already possess the Radiant Divine Eye which represents the Twilight Sr God Beast, and you have also cultivated the Skin Peeling Technique which represents the Yin Lunar God Beast."


    <i>Azure Lightning Technique?</i>


    Fang Chen took the jade slip and infused it with his spiritual energy.


    Suddenly, his mind was instantly filled with cryptic texts. Instinctively, he activated his Primordial Immortal Eyes, and the once obscure text became clear and understandable.

 Chapter 556: Has Once Contended with the Heaven Dao

    <h4>Chapter 556: Has Once Contended with the Heaven Dao</h4>


    The Azure Lightning Technique was a form of lightning technique, but it had a unique aspect; it required the cultivator to establish a connection with the Azure Lightning Beast before they could wield it.


    Fang Chen''s eyes revealed confusion. He looked at the white paper figure and voiced his doubts, asking, "Why is the power of lightning not borrowing from the spiritual energy of heaven and earth, but rather from the divine beast?"


    The white paper figure chuckled lightly. "In the records of Daoism, Azure almost reced the Heavenly Dao, but it failed. Our Daoist Sect has always aligned with Azure, so how could we borrow from the Heavenly Dao when practicing lightning techniques?"


    Fang Chen felt a chill in his heart. <i>Could Azure really be so powerful? It almost became the Heavenly Dao?</i>


    However, Fang Chen was somewhat skeptical. <i>Perhaps this is an exaggeration.</i>


    The ck paper figure sneered. "If Azure had seeded back then, our sect disciples wouldn''t be in such decline now."


    "But fortunately, Azure has always been there. One day, it will seed," added the white paper figure.


    Fang Chen''s expression was somewhat strange. It seemed that the ancient Dao traditions opposed the Heavenly Dao. <i>No wonder the essence of the Skin Peeling Technique is used to evade the karma of the Heavenly Dao.</i>


    "May I ask, if Azure once contended for the position of the Heaven Dao, what about Yin and Twilight?" Fang Chen asked softly.


    The white paper figure smiled and answered, "Twilight also contended for it but utterly failed. Long ago, it controlled the Five Elements of the world. Now these elements belong to the Heavenly Dao."


    It paused momentarily and continued, "As for Yin, it never vied for the position of the Heavenly Dao, but it holds all the mysteries of the world."


    "We both originate from Yin."


    "Young Master, next, we will ask you to go to a ce where you can truly obtain the inheritance master left."


    The white paper figure spoke respectfully. "Please rest assured, if we intended to harm you, there would have been no need to wait until now."


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "Please lead the way."


    The ck and white paper people led Fang Chen through winding and deep corridors before finally arriving at a tform. In front of the tform were two bronze coffins.


    Fang Chen was slightly surprised. "Is your master lying inside one of these coffins?"


    The white paper figure shook its head. "No, what lies inside are our true selves."


    "Your true selves?"


    Fang Chen immediately used his divine soul to peer inside, and he indeed confirmed that there were two paper figures identical to the ck and white paper people inside


    "Young Master, do you understand the Spiritual Attachment Technique? Please use it to refine our true selves," said the white paper figure.


    Fang Chen''s expression was slightly odd. "Don¡¯t tell me that... you two are the inheritance your master left behind?"


    The ck and white paper people nodded simultaneously.


    "That''s right. Once you refine our true selves, you can take us away from here. From then on, Master will rest in peace."


    "Master''s various inheritance are within us. Once your cultivation reaches a higher level... just a bit higher, it will benefit your cultivation," the white paper figure said, with a hint of tactfulness in its tone.


    Clearly, Fang Chen''s early Foundation Building Realm cultivation was still considered low in their eyes.


    "Once you refine our true selves, you will be able to determine our lives and deaths with a thought." The white paper figure''s smile grew a little. "Maybe by then, you maye to trust us a little more."


    "I''ll give it a try," said Fang Chen, nodding lightly.


    He approached the bronze coffin. With a thought, a strand of condensed spiritual me appeared at his fingertips. With a flick, the spiritual me fell onto the true body of the white paper figure, as if the paper figure had encountered real fire.


    Arge hole was burned through the true body of the white paper figure, and the mes continued to spread around it. Suddenly, a muffled groan came from behind. Fang Chen turned around to see that the white paper figure also had arge hole appearing on its body, and invisible mes were spreading continuously.


    Their faces contorted with pain, bordering on grimacing.


    The white paper figure squeezed out a forced smile. "I''m fine; please continue."


    Fang Chen had thought that refining their true bodies would be difficult, but he soon realized that it was quite simple as long as they didn''t resist. Without hesitation, Fang Chen intensified the refining process, making the spiritual me even fiercer. Only in this way could he quickly relieve their pain.


    After a dozen breaths, the white paper figure turned into ashespletely. Their true body also disappeared without a trace. Fang Chen noticed that something seemed to have been added to his mind. The white paper figure had beenpletely refined through the Spirit Attachment Technique.


    With a thought, a new white paper figure appeared before Fang Chen. It smiled and bowed to him respectfully, its face showing gratitude.


    "Young Master, please proceed," the ck paper figure said softly.


    Fang Chen nodded and continued to refine the ck paper figure using the Spirit Attachment Technique. Meanwhile, outside the immortal tomb, none of the cultivators had left. The newly-arrived cultivators had learned from them about the series of events inside, which left them somewhat shaken.


    Four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators had left the Immortal Tomb empty-handed. The Foundation Building Realm cultivator had obtained everything....


    Upon hearing that Chai Shun hadn''t obtained anything, Chai Long felt relieved. ncing at Chai Shun, he smirked. "Chai Shun, it seems that Elder Dongfang may not be able to leave this ce."


    Chai Shun understood what Chai Long was insinuating and looked worriedly toward the Immortal Tomb.


    The four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators were gloomy, their eyes fixed on the tomb''s entrance, waiting for Fang Chen to emerge. When he did, whatever inheritance he gained would have to be shared.


    "How lively! It looks like something extraordinary has emerged?" Suddenly, someone''s voice resounded from above the crowd.


    Everyone looked upwards to see an immortal boat hovering in mid-air, with dozens of figures standing on the deck.


    The leader was a young man dressed in magnificent attire, with a purple-gold crown on his head. His whole outfit exuded an extraordinarily unusual aura, suggesting it was a treasured garment of a grade even Nascent Soul Realm cultivators couldn''t discern.


    The four Nascent Soul cultivators were taken aback, a vague sense of foreboding rising in their hearts. The neer disyed formidable strength, and his background was undoubtedly extraordinary.


    <i>This immortal boat is of the standard of the Central Continent. He must be from an official family!</i>


    "Your Highness, it seems to be an Immortal Tomb," an elderly man beside the young man remarked solemnly.


    "Land! Land! This must be my chance!" the young man eximed excitedly.


    The immortal boat descended slowly near the entrance of the immortal tomb, and the young man led his group down. The elderly man nced at the four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators and calmly said, "This is the son of the Prefect of the Azure Dao Manor. Come forward and pay your respects."


    <i>The Prefect''s son? Wasn''t that the son of a Dao Union Realm expert?</i>


    The hearts of the four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators trembled slightly, and they hurriedly ran over, bowing respectfully. "We pay our respects to Your Highness!"


    The cultivators present were secretly shocked. "It''s the son of the Prefect...."


    However, aside from the four Nascent Soul cultivators, none of the cultivators present moved to pay their respects because they didn''t even have the qualifications.


    "Is this an Immortal Tomb? The gate seems open. Have the four of you already been inside?" the young man asked with a smile.


    The four exchanged looks and nodded. "We... we have entered."


    "What fortunes did you gain inside? Show me what you obtained," the young man casually requested.

 Chapter 557: Heavenly Cloud Emperor

    <h4>Chapter 557: Heavenly Cloud Emperor</h4>


    <i>Fortune?</i>


    The four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators didn''t really know what to do with their faces hearing that word.


    The elderly man noticed their hesitation and rebuked them, "Speak your minds. The young master has no interest in coveting your fortunes."


    The four secretly cursed inwardly. <i>No interest? Bullshit.</i>


    The elderly woman cleared her throat and, in a low voice, said, "Your Highness, we did enter this immortal tomb, but we haven''t obtained any fortune whatsoever. Otherwise, we would have left long ago instead of waiting here in misery."


    A trace of cold mockery shed in the old man''s eyes. "Since this is an Immortal Tomb, how could it not have any fortune left behind?"


    The youth signaled the old man to be quiet. "Elder Yuan, let them speak."


    He turned to the elderly woman and said, "You said you were waiting here in misery. What are you waiting for?"


    The elderly woman clenched her teeth and recounted everything that had happened.


    The youth and hispanions were somewhat surprised. After all the fuss, these four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators truly gained no fortune from the immortal tomb, and all the opportunities had ended up in the hands of a Foundation Building Realm cultivator.


    "Let''s go. Let''s go back inside together. I want to see whether your words are true or false."


    The youth chuckled lightly and led the group toward the Immortal Tomb.


    The elderly woman and the others dared not refuse. In their hearts, they also wanted to go back inside. With the son of the manor apanying them, and with strong protectors by their side, their safety would be even more guaranteed.


    They quickly arrived at the front of the Immortal Tomb. Just as they were about to enter, a loud bang was heard, and the gate of the Immortal Tomb unexpectedly closed shut.


    Immediately, an extremely powerful aura enveloped the gate; the formation that the four had supposedly broken was unexpectedly reenacted!


    The young man''s gaze turned cold. "You''re lying? Didn¡¯t you say that the formation had already been broken?"


    Seeing that, Elder Yuan immediately surged with a powerful aura, pressing down on the four like a towering mountain. Sounds of bones and flesh tightening echoed from within them!


    Feeling the pressure press down on them, the four were perplexed. "It was truly broken..."


    Then, the old woman''s eyes flickered, and she hurriedly said, "It must be those two ck and white paper figures!"


    <i>ck and white paper figures?</i>


    The young man and the elder exchanged a look.


    Elder Yuan murmured, "If a senior of a Dao Sect left this tomb, its methods would indeed be somewhat strange. If they are not lying, then the prohibition they broke earlier must have been an illusion created deliberately by those two paper figures. Their purpose could very well be to select an heir for the tomb''s owner."


    These words instantly awakened the old woman and the others.


    "Elder Yuan, are you suggesting... that they chose the Foundation Building cultivator as an heir? Hence, he obtained all three inheritances? The Skin Peeling Technique sounds like an unorthodox method, and as for the second trial with the eyes, hmm, its origin is unknown, but the third trial involves a Thunder Dao inheritance."


    The young man pondered for a moment, then chuckled softly. "This is the realm of the Central Continent. Every nt and tree here belongs to the Central Continent. If this Dao Sect senior intends to leave an inheritance, it naturally should be passed through us. Let''s wait here. When hees out, we''ll have him hand over the inheritance. In return, he can keep those three inheritances for himself as well."


    Elder Yuan nodded with a smile. "That is only fair."


    The four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators looked stunned. How could these two speak of robbery so casually? Although they had heard that the officials from the government were very domineering, treating everything in the Central Continent as theirs, it was the first time they had truly witnessed their attitude first hand.


    Chai Shun''s face turned pale. "Elder Dongfang... This is going to be big trouble...."


    Chai Long couldn''t help but walk up beside him, chuckling softly. "You thought you found yourself a strong backing? But now it seems this backing is about to copse. What will you do?"


    Chai Shun nced at him angrily. "What nonsense are you talking about?"


    "Yeah, just speaking my mind. This time, I have to thank your ''backing'' for not needing to enter this tomb." Chai Long smiled. "If I were really stuck in there getting skinned, you would surely be most happy."


    Chai Shun fell silent.


    Meanwhile, Chi Chong was secretly sizing up the young lord, wondering what he was thinking.


    At the same time, Fang Chen hadpletely refined the true bodies of the ck and white paper figures. Now, both of them were refined by his Spirit Attachment Technique. Those refined by this technique were collectively called spirit ves, so now they were his spirit ves, giving Fang Chen the authority to control their life and death.


    "Are there any other opportunities in this tomb?" Fang Chen asked them.


    "Young Master..." The white paper figure began tentatively.


    "In the future, you two can call me ''Lord'' as ''Young Master'' doesn''t sound pleasing to my ears," Fang Chen interrupted.


    "Yes, my lord," the white paper figure responded quietly. "There¡¯s nothing else in the tomb. The master knew his end was near and had already spared no effort in leaving behind his inheritance."


    Fang Chen''s expression turned slightly serious. "May I ask what this senior''s name was?"


    Even though that senior was no longer alive, he had entrusted Fang Chen with his inheritance. Even though Fang Chen hadn''t formally taken the tomb''s owner as his master, this was still a debt of gratitude that Fang Chen felt deeply.


    "Our master was honored as the Supreme Dao of Heaven," the ck and white paper figures said respectfully.


    "Supreme Dao of Heaven... I imagine senior''s cultivation and methods were extremely strong. Was he at the Ascension Realm, or perhaps the First Rate Sect Leader?" Fang Chen inquired.


    "Before his death, our master was approached by enemies when he was still in the Ascension Realm and had not truly stepped into the realm of First Rate Sect Leader," the white paper figure exined.


    <i>So he was at the peak of Ascension Realm?</i>


    Fang Chen sighed inwardly. Such a formidable figure was rare indeed. ording to the Mirror of the Universe''s records, there were only twenty such people in the entire Central Continent.


    "In the Hidden Cloud Region alone, which spans over five thousand empires, and the numerous territories simr to the Hidden Cloud Region controlled by the Central Continent, there are countless beings. Yet, only about twenty or so Ascension Realm cultivators exist among this vast multitude, illustrating just how rare this realm is."


    Even Fang Chen himselfcked the confidence to reach such heights.


    "By the way, you deduced from Senior Yun He''s name that I cultivated the Introduction to the Three Thousand Daos. How did you know?" Fang Chen asked curiously.


    The white and ck paper figures exchanged looks, their faces showing a hint of strangeness.


    "Lord, don''t you know that the Introduction to the Three Thousand Daos you inherites from the Heavenly Cloud Emperor?" the white paper person asked.


    Fang Chen was surprised. "The Heavenly Cloud Emperor?"


    He had never heard anyone referred to as an Emperor before.


    The white paper figure sighed. "Yes, Yun He is the Dao name of the Heavenly Cloud Emperor. It''s fortunate for you to inherit his teachings, which makes us believe that you are undoubtedly the heir to our master''s inheritance. After all, our master often spoke of hoping to meet the Heavenly Cloud Emperor to receive his guidance."


    Fang Chen''s expression stiffened. He asked in a low voice, "Is Senior Yun He''s status much higher than that of senior''s?"


    The white paper person raised their hand to illustrate. "Much higher."


    <i>How could this be possible? These two weren¡¯t even from the same era....</i>


    Fang Chen''s expression turned increasingly strange.

 Chapter 588: Matters Settled, Time to Leave

    <h4>Chapter 588: Matters Settled, Time to Leave</h4>


    Fang Chen asked softly, "May I ask how many centuries have passed since Senior''s passing?"


    "Let me think," the white paper figure said, counting on its fingers for a while before whispering, "It has been thirteen thousand four hundred and sixty-five years."


    The ck paper figure sighed softly. "It''s been so long...."


    Fang Chen couldn''t help but gasp. <i>Does this mean Senior Yun He''s lifespan had exceeded ten thousand years?</i>


    He only knew that a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator could live up to eight hundred years. Could the Ascended or Loose Immortals live on for thousands of years?


    "Master was about three thousand seven hundred years old when he passed away. If not for his lifespan nearing its end, he might not have chosen to be a Loose Immortal, and those enemies wouldn''t have had an easy time."


    The white paper figure sighed. "As our master used to say, it''s all fate."


    "Wait a moment, you mentioned that the Supreme Dao of Heaven lived for three thousand seven hundred years and his lifespan was nearing its end?" Fang Chen''s expression was stunned. "But then you also said Senior Yun He''s status is higher than his. Does this mean Loose Immortals can live much longer than Ascension Realm cultivators?"


    "The lifespan of Loose Immortals isn''t much longer. We don''t know the specifics, but it shouldn''t be significantly more than Ascension Realm cultivators. Besides, Loose Immortals also have to undergo tribtions as they are something not tolerated by thews of this world," the ck paper figure said, pointing toward the sky with a sliver of mockery in its eyes.


    It seemed that Dao sects indeed had significant grievances with the Heavenly Dao.


    "My lord, are you aware that the Heavenly Cloud Emperor has already passed away many years ago?" The white paper figure seemed to remember something, their expression strangely solemn.


    Fang Chen chuckled lightly, shaking his head. "Passed away? That''s impossible. I saw Senior Yun He with my own two eyes, probably just over twenty years ago. He personally passed down the Introduction to the Three Thousand Daos to me."


    The two paper figures exchanged looks.


    The white paper figure sighed softly. "My lord, how could we dare deceive you about this? Betraying one''s master leads to immediate annihtion of the soul and spirit."


    The smile on Fang Chen''s face stiffened slightly.


    "What you saw, my lord, was likely a remnant soul left behind by the Heavenly Cloud Emperor in this realm," the ck paper figure murmured. "Many years ago, when our master rose to be a Daoist revered across thend, the Heavenly Cloud Emperor had already passed away for countless years.


    "Neither of us knows the exact duration. Even our master couldn''t say for certain. But the Heavenly Cloud Emperor has always left behind a remnant soul, refusing to reincarnate, wandering in this realm. asionally, fortunate individuals could encounter him and receive teachings on cultivation."


    Fang Chen frowned. "But Senior Yun He clearly instructed me to join the Three Thousand Dao Sect in the Central Continent. If Senior Yun He only left behind a remnant soul, why would he say that...."


    "Some say... Some say that the remnant soul of the Heavenly Cloud Emperor has gone mad. He doesn''t even know he has passed away. As for the Three Thousand Dao Sect..." The white paper figure sighed bitterly. "Long, long ago, there was only one Dao Sect in the world¡ªthe Three Thousand Dao Sect. It held the inheritance of three thousand kinds of traditions, each capable of dominating a region and revered by worldly cultivators.


    "But one day, something happened. The Three Thousand Dao Sect encountered a great cmity, countless powerful figures were massacred. It was on that day that the Heavenly Cloud Emperor... also passed away.


    "Three Thousand Dao Sect''s disciples either perished or fled, and from then on, the Dao traditions scattered, with countless Dao sects emerging like mushrooms after rain.


    "Our master''s inheritance... is also one of the branches within the Three Thousand Dao Sect. He once said that among the Three Thousand Dao traditions, only by mastering the Introduction to the Three Thousand Daos can oney the best foundation."


    Both paper figures looked at Fang Chen as if to say, "See, what our master said was correct."


    Fang Chen, having mastered the Introduction to the Three Thousand Daos and achieved "Source of Authority," indeed possessed one of the best foundations from the Dao Sect.


    "Wait, let me understand this." Fang Chen''splexion turned pale. "ording to what you''re saying, there is no such thing as the Three Thousand Dao Sect in this world? The so-called Innate Dao Sect, Great Expansion Dao Gate... All of them originated from the Three Thousand Dao Sect?"


    "Exactly. All Dao paths trace back to the Three Thousand Dao Sect. In its prime, even the Azure Lightning Divine Beast, the Yin Divine Beast, the Twilight Divine Beast, would sit and discuss Dao within the Three Thousand Dao Sect!"


    The white paper figure nodded gently. "Although we haven''t heard of the Innate Dao Sect, Great Expansion Dao Gate, they must have originated from the Three Thousand Dao Sect."


    Suddenly, Fang Chen recalled various inconsistencies. He had asked many people, none of whom had heard of the Three Thousand Dao Sect. He had assumed that the Three Thousand Dao Sect was reclusive, unlike the mboyant Void Immortal Sword Sect. But what if the Three Thousand Dao Sect never truly existed? That could exin why so many people had never heard of it.


    "No, wait. The ancestor of the Greenwood Sect knew about the Three Thousand Dao Sect and even gave me a map, although it differed from what Senior Yun He gave me. He must have visited the Three Thousand Dao Sect!"


    Fang Chen''s eyes showed a trace of doubt, realizing he couldn''t fully trust the words of the two figures before him.


    Maybe they were not lying; perhaps they''ve been imprisoned here for so long that there are things they no longer know.


    Fang Chen''s steeled his heart. "No matter what, I have to go and see for myself."


    Thinking through this, he tried to calm his emotions and asked calmly, "You mentioned that during its peak, the Three Thousand Dao Sect was so powerful that even the Three Divine Beasts of the sect would appear for discussions. With such a formidable sect, how could it have been destroyed?"


    "I heard it was people from the Ancient Immortal Road," the white paper figure said softly.


    "Our master discussed this with other Dao supremes in the past. They said it was like this. The exact truth has long been lost in the river of time. If you can meet Senior Yun He again and if he remembers what happened back then, my lord, perhaps you can ask him."


    Fang Chen pondered. "The Ancient Immortal Road... you mean people from the Immortal Realm?"


    If it were beings from the Immortal Realm, they indeed would have the power to destroy strong figures in the mortal realm. But why would the Immortal Realm do such a thing?


    "Not necessarily." The ck paper figure shook its head. "I''ve traveled the Ancient Immortal Road before. That road may not necessarily lead to the Immortal Realm. It could encounter powerful beings from unknown realms. In short, it''s a very strange road. I even suspect it''s rted to the Yin Divine Beast."


    Fang Chen looked at the ck paper figure, his expression puzzled. "You''ve walked it? But aren''t you..."


    "Lord, we were not born as evil creatures." The white paper figure smiled faintly. "We once lived normally, but due to various reasons, we ended up in our current state. However, there''s a silver lining. At least... we are immortal now, aren''t we? As long as our true forms remain intact, we cannot die."


    Fang Chen was slightly surprised. "You mean you didn''t turn like this because of the Supreme Dao of Heaven?"


    "Our master has a pure nature," the white paper figure responded. "Our plight here has nothing to do with him. On the contrary, if it weren''t for his intervention, we would have perished long ago without even the chance of reincarnation."


    Sensing Fang Chen''s thoughts, the white paper figure exined softly. However, they avoided delving into the specifics of how they died and became what they were now. Fang Chen noticed their reluctance to talk about it. Although he knew they would exin if pressed, he changed the subject.


    "You mentioned earlier that if your true selves don¡¯t die, the two of you won¡¯t truly die. Now that you¡¯ve been refined by me, if I die..."


    "We will return to dust," the ck and white paper figures said calmly, showing no fear of death.


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "This matter here is settled. I should leave now."

 Chapter 559: Swallowing Karma

    <h4>Chapter 559: Swallowing Karma</h4>


    Fang Chen walked alone in the deep and secluded corridor, with the ck and white paper figures floating like willow catkins on his side. As he walked, he collected the storage rings of the cultivators who had died during the trials. Although the cultivation resources in these storage rings might not amount to much, umting them still came to a considerable sum.


    Before long, Fang Chen arrived in front of the Skinning Hall, gazing at the twenty bright red corpses. He couldn''t help but ask softly, "Little White, Little ck, why does the Skinning Hall take away their skins?"


    The white paper figure smiled and answered, "We only need the karma on their bodies. The karma devoured over the years is why this Immortal Tomb still stands despite how many years have passed.


    "This is also a form of the Heavenly Abhorrence Technique. Once you advance to the Upper Three Realms, you can start practicing it. Fortunately, you have the Introduction to the Three Thousand Daos as the foundation. With this, you can practice any sect''s techniques in the world. It won''t be like the past, where one might possess several divine techniques but can''t grasp their essence."


    Fang Chen was slightly startled. "Cultivating the Introduction to the Three Thousand Daos has such an advantage?"


    "Yes. For instance, not all sects can practice the Spiritual Attachment Technique you just used. There''s also the Skin Peeling Technique, the Radiant Divine Eyes, and the Azure Thunder Technique. All of them require corresponding methods. However, with the Introduction to the Three Thousand Daos, you can practice any sect¡¯s technique," the white paper figure exined.


    Fang Chen was hit with a realization. It seemed that Yun Tiancheng from the Profound Yellow Pce, and the ancient cultivation family mentioned by Mirror of the Universe could naturally cultivate the Radiant Divine Eye. That indicated that both originated from the same lineage. Even if they weren''t, they belonged to the same "category."


    It was simr to the Great Expansion Dao Gate and the Innate Dao Sect, where they had different cultivation techniques and did not belong to the same Dao lineage yet both practiced the Spiritual Attachment Technique.


    In addition, he had another huge advantage.


    <i>The Heavenly Abhorrence Technique!</i>


    The Skin Peeling Technique, Radiant Divine Eye, and Azure Thunder Technique all belonged to the Heavenly Abhorrence Technique.


    ording to the white paper figure, he could practice all the Heavenly Abhorrence Technique, while the other cultivators were not fortunate enough to do so.


    Fang Chen suddenly asked, "Have you ever heard of a technique called the Shadow Buddha Technique?"


    The ck and white paper figures were slightly stunned.


    "Lord, it was rumored a long time ago that the Shadow Buddha Technique was also a peak escape technique of a certain lineage, but its inheritance has long been lost. Even our master didn''t find this technique back then."


    The white paper figure said curiously, "Lord, you wouldn''t happen to know this technique, would you?"


    Fang Chen smiled and nodded. "I do."


    As expected, the technique cultivated by Nong Guiquan should be from a lineage.


    Therefore, he was the only one who couldprehend that technique in the Heavenly Doom Hall.


    "This technique seems to belong to the lineage of the Yin Divine Beast. The fact that you can obtain this technique further proves that we did not misjudge you."


    The ck and white paper figures seemed moved, and they nced at each other, seeing the joy deep in each other''s eyes.


    Fang Chen looked at the skinless corpses and then at the carvings of the Daoist disciples on the wall. "Oh, since we are about to leave this ce, can we return the karma to them?"


    These people seemed to have fallen into a kind of chaotic state. Although their faces changed, they had never spoken from beginning to end. If left alone, he feared that the karma on their bodies would bepletely swallowed up, and once the karma disappeared, these individuals would cease to exist.


    The white paper figure nodded gently. "Master told us that if we leave the Immortal Tomb one day, we can let the tomb disappear so that he can also be at peace. You can use the Skin Peeling Technique to restore them, but it may require consuming some spiritual energy."


    Fang Chen smiled. "I have plenty of spiritual energy."


    He approached the wall slowly and extended his palm toward one of the disciples. In the next moment, spiritual energy surged within him, gathering swiftly in his hand. His entire arm shimmered with a green glow.


    The green light seemed to transform into invisible hands as it pulled at the target from the wall.


    Soon, fifteen minutes passed.


    Fang Chen still couldn''t pull his target out of the wall. It was as if there was an invisible force blocking him. His spiritual energy was rapidly depleting, and he reached his limit in no time.


    Seeing his failure, the white paper figure smiled and said, "Lord, it''s normal not to be proficient in using the Skin Peeling Technique for the first time. With more practice, you''ll be able to do it effortlessly."


    Fang Chen nodded. After his spiritual energy fully recovered, he activated the Primordial Immortal Eyes.


    At that moment, hisprehension of the Skin Peeling Technique deepened instantly, and he felt that he would be able to use it effortlessly.


    After fifteen minutes of effort, he sessfully pulled out a piece of human skin, whichnded on one of the bright red corpses.


    The ck and white paper figures nced at each other.


    "This is also a kind of eye technique...."


    However, with their knowledge, they couldn''t recognize the origin of the Primordial Immortal Eyes. They only noticed that Fang Chen''s understanding of the Skin Peeling Technique deepend after he activated that eye technique, as if he had practiced it thousands of times!


    As the human skin fused with the corpse, the Qi Refining Realm cultivator slowly opened his eyes, showing a bewildered expression: "Mommy, Daddy, where am I?"


    "Your parents are not here," said the ck paper figure coldly.


    The Qi Refining Realm cultivator gradually came to his senses, memories flooding back into his mind as he finally recalled what had happened to him. He gasped and shivered uncontrobly, staring nkly at the ck and white paper figure.


    After a few moments, he seemed to suddenly realize something. He quickly checked his body up and down and found that his skin was intact before letting out a deep sigh of relief.


    Grateful for being rescued, he immediately bowed to Fang Chen. "Many thanks for saving me, senior! This is a lifesaving grace!"


    "Take it easy for now," said Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen nodded slightly and began to perform the Skin Peeling Technique on the second person. The Qi Refining Realm cultivator quietly watched Fang Chen, then nced at the ck and white paper figures, feeling increasingly horrified.


    Why were these two paper figures following this Foundation Building Realm cultivator?


    Even after Fang Chen rescued the second person, he couldn''t make sense of it. He could only set aside his question and wait at the side cautiously.


    After some time passed and all twenty pieces of human skin returned to their original owners, a ripple of emotion stirred in the hearts of the ck and white paper figure. It seemed that their lord¡¯s spiritual energy was inexhaustible!


    "Many thanks, senior, for giving us a new life. This junior will never forget it. If there is a chance in the future, I will surely repay you!"


    The people gradually regained theirposure, bowing and expressing their gratitude to Fang Chen while feeling deeply grateful and fearful. If it weren''t for the intervention of this senior, they might have been imprisoned here for life and would have disappearedpletely!


    "It''s time to leave," Fang Chen said softly, leading the way out of the Immortal Tomb.


    When the ck and white paper figures saw this, they vanished into thin air and reappeared by Fang Chen''s side.


    The twenty Qi Refining Realm cultivators cautiously followed behind Fang Chen until they saw arge door slowly opening ahead of them. Only then did they feel a sense of relief, as if they had escaped death.

 Chapter 560: Heart Extraction

    <h4>Chapter 560: Heart Extraction</h4>


    "The immortal tomb''s gate has opened again!"


    "It must be that Foundation Building Realm cultivator!"


    When everyone saw the tomb''s gate reopening, curiosity flickered in their eyes.


    Chai Long grinned. "Chai Shun, what do you think will be the fate of Senior Dongfang?"


    Chai Shun nced at him. "None of your business."


    Chai Long chuckled to himself. "I will tell you what will happen to him: he''ll be robbed and killed."


    Chai Shun''s eyes filled with worry. Though reluctant to admit it, he knew Chai Long''s words might hold true.


    All eyes were fixed on the tomb''s entrance, including the son of the Azure Dao Prefecture¡¯s Prefect, and the four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators. For some reason, they all felt a hint of tension. After all, that individual might have gained the tomb''s inheritance.


    The owner of the tomb was at least a Profound Immortal. Such an inheritance was incredibly precious even for the son of a Prefect.


    Gradually, a figure walked out from the tomb.


    <i>Who else could it be but the Foundation Building Realm cultivator?</i>


    The old woman and the others exchanged nces, their eyes dark as they fixed them on Fang Chen.


    Just as someone was about to speak, they suddenly noticed dozens of figures following behind Fang Chen.


    A cultivator suddenly eximed, "Cousin!?"


    Following him, many shouts rang out.


    "Younger sister!"


    "Youngest!"


    "Disciple!"


    "Hiss..."


    The cultivators who had entered the tomb all gasped in astonishment.


    <i>Weren''t these twenty Qi Condensation cultivators supposed to have been skinned alive and offered as tomb sacrifices? How were they now alive and well? Could it be that they were seeing ghosts in broad daylight?</i>


    "I''ve been cultivating for many years, and I''ve finally seen the legendary ghosts. I''m certain that this group, including that Foundation Building Realm cultivator, must have died. They definitely aren''t living people," a cultivator said confidently.


    "But they have shadows..." a disciple pointed to the shadows beneath Fang Chen and the rest.


    "Those must be fake. Just illusions," the disciple asserted firmly.


    The onlookers were skeptical. Even the disciples who had previously seen their own rtives and friends were suddenly calm as their expressions turned wary.


    An old woman with a hoarse voice asked, "Are you humans or ghosts?"


    Fang Chen smiled, focusing his attention on the group of youths. "Why ask such a thing, senior?"


    These disciples were extraordinary, especially the old man beside the young man. He gave off a powerful aura.


    He had fought with Yu Doni and others, some of whom were in the Enlightenment Realm. The old man''s aura was slightly weaker than Yu Doni''s, but he should also be in the Enlightenment Realm.


    "The people behind you... We clearly saw them being skinned and sealed in the tomb... Why are they alive and well now... they even have their skins back?" the old woman said solemnly.


    As she spoke, she subtly stepped back.


    Facing the unknown, even cultivators had to be cautious. After all, ghosts were something she, as a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator, had never truly seen.


    The young man frowned. "You''re talking nonsense. Their aura is so vigorous, how could they be ghosts?"


    Before the old woman could exin, he turned to Fang Chen and smiled. "How should I address you? I am Qi Ran, the son of the Prefect of the Azure Dao Prefecture."


    Fang Chen mused, <i>The son of the Prefect of Azure Dao Prefecture? Isn''t he the one who takes bribes?</i>


    Showing a faint smile, Fang Chen replied, "Dongfang Haojie. Nice to meet you, Daoist Qi."


    Elder Yuan smiled slightly. "Young friend, how can you address the young master as Daoist? The young master is the son of the Prefect, and is a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator himself. But young friend, it seems you are only at the Foundation Building Realm, right? Even if we don''t follow the rules of the court, ording to the norms of the cultivation world, calling him ''senior'' shouldn''t be a problem, right?"


    Despite his soft tone, every word carried an undeniable dominance.


    "Elder Yuan, don''t scare Daoist Dongfang. I''ve always been easy-going, and you know that," Qi Ran scolded Elder Yuan with a look, then turned to Fang Chen with a smile and continued, "Daoist Dongfang, don''t mind Elder Yuan. It''s perfectly fine for us to address each other as Daoist."


    He noticed Fang Chen had been keeping his eyes closed and suddenly asked, "Daoist Dongfang, do you have an eye condition?"


    "Yes." Fang Chen nodded, opening his eyes to reveal his grayish-white pupils.


    A hint of ridicule crossed Qi Ran''s face, but he said aloud, "Impressive. Despite your eye condition, you defeated many strong opponents in this Immortal Tomb and seized the immortal fate. I admire your achievement."


    Fang Chen smiled politely. "Daoist Qi, you''re too kind."


    Grinning, Qi Ran went on, "In that case, Daoist Dongfang, why not hand over the inheritance you obtained to me? I will report to the court and record a merit for you!"


    The old woman and others revealed mocking expressions.


    Chai Long even gently patted Chai Shun''s shoulder, pretending to console him.


    Fang Chen said in surprise, "Immortal fate is bestowed by the heavens. Why would I hand it over to you? Daoist Qi, are you joking with me?"


    Qi Ran''s expression darkened, and his smile was stripped of any warmth within seconds. "I''m joking?"


    He said, "Listen to my tone. Does it sound like I''m joking with you? You don''t understand. Be it walking on this earth or flying in the sky, none of them belong outside the jurisdiction of the court. Daoist Dongfang , it would be best for you not to make me repeat myself a third time."


    Elder Yuan chuckled. "Lord, why not just take him back to the Azure Dao Prefecture for further questioning?"


    The crowd shivered slightly. It was a desperate situation. If this Foundation Building Realm cultivator was taken away now, he might disappear without a trace!


    Suddenly, a cold voice rang out apanied by a chilling wind. "The likes of you want to bring my lord away... Haha..."


    The crowd was startled as they saw a white paper figure standing beside Elder Yuan. The figure''s hand was pulling out a massive heart from Elder Yuan''s chest, gripping not only a huge heart but also a Nascent Soul.


    The Nascent Soul was squealing in terror. However, its screams were soon silenced as the paper figure swallowed it whole.


    Elder Yuan, who had an imposing aura enough to intimidate the old woman and herpanions moments ago, now turned into an empty corpse.


    The old woman and herpanions gasped in shock. They froze in ce, turning stiff.


    <i>These two paper figures... how did they exit the immortal tomb!?</i>


    Even the group of Qi Refining Realm cultivators behind Fang Chen were shocked. They had thought those two paper figures remained in the tomb and had never imagined that they would follow them all the way out and even exit the immortal tomb!


    The remaining guards of Qi Ran were furious and shocked, but before they could react, their heads were swiftly severed. Over a dozen cultivators with decent cultivation bases were killed just like that.


    Meanwhile, a solemn face ck paper figure stood behind them, its cheeks adorned crimson, making it even more eerie.


    "You..."


    Qi Ran was horrified. He soared into the air suddenly. However, as soon as he left the earth, a hand caught his shoulder, bringing him back down and holding him firmly.


    The ck and white paper figure gripped Qi Ran''s shoulders and looked toward Fang Chen.


    "Lord, how should we deal with him?"


    "Daoist Dongfang, it''s a misunderstanding! A grave misunderstanding!" Qi Ran said urgently.


    He finally realized the situation. These two paper figures were likely the great immortal fate that Fang Chen had obtained from the tomb! Even Elder Yuan who was in the Enlightenment Realm had been killed easily. The strength of these two paper figures might be at the Soul Splitting Realm!

 Chapter 561: Since Youre Ashamed, You Can Die

    <h4>Chapter 561: Since You''re Ashamed, You Can Die</h4>


    Fang Chen pondered for a moment. "Is it really a misunderstanding?"


    Fang Chen looked at the four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators. "He said that be it the ground or the sky, all of it belongs to the government. Is there any grounds for this?"


    The four looked somewhat fearful. Seeing Fang Chen''s question, they quickly calmed themselves down.


    One of them nodded slowly. "Indeed, there is such a saying in the Central Continent. However, in reality, not everyone agrees with it."


    ncing at Elder Yuan''s corpse, Qi Ran fretted, "Daoist Dongfang, I just wanted to discuss matters with you, I never intended to resort to violence. Please understand!


    "It''s all because of that old man''s narrow-mindedness and his inability to tolerate others. When he saw that you had a fortuitous encounter, Daoist Dongfang, he got jealous and wanted to snatch it away from you. He deserved to die!"


    Everyone sighed inwardly. To be able to reverse right and wrong with such righteousness, he was truly the son of the Prefect.


    "He was indeed in the wrong, so he died. This is his karma." Fang Chen looked at the old man''s corpse and nodded lightly. Then he looked at Qi Ran again. "You were wrong too, so you have also received the karma that belongs to you."


    Qi Ran seemed to have a premonition. "My... karma?"


    His face suddenly turned green as he stared at Fang Chen tightly. "Daoist Dongfang, my father is the Prefect of the Azure Dao Prefecture and is a strong early stage Dao Union Realm expert. If you kill me, you will also incur terrifying karma!"


    "Me? I''ve never been afraid of karma."


    Fang Chen smiled lightly and nodded toward the ck and white paper figure.


    <i>Crack!</i>


    The white and ck paper figures tore Qi Ran to shreds.


    After that, the ck paper figure didn''t spare even the fleeing Nascent Soul Realm cultivators, swallowing them in one gulp.


    With that, the ck and white paper figures floated slowly to both sides of Fang Chen, staring at everyone present. Anyone they fixed their gaze upon, be it Nascent Soul, Golden Core, Foundation Building, or Qi Refining cultivators, all felt a chilling sensation, as if their whole body was frozen and unable to move.


    The cultivators who had been inside the Immortal Tomb were rtively calm as they had seen the eerie nature of the two paper figures before. But those who hadn''t were exponentially more frightened upon witnessing the terrifying power of these two figures, which were not much different from burial objects burned for the dead.


    It was precisely because of how ordinary they seemed that created a stark psychological pressure on them.


    The old woman suddenly forced a smile and bowed with sped hands with the other three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators following suit in a hurry. "Congrattions, Daoist! Congrattions!"


    Chai Long''s expression had long since stiffened. Recovering from his shock, Chao Shun immediately looked toward Chai Long.


    "Chai Long, you''re finished."


    "Chai Shun, can you just consider everything I said earlier as nonsense? We''re of the same sect and family after all. Please spare me," said Chai Long with a lowered voice, his tone pleading.


    "I will tell him what you said earlier truthfully. It''s up to Senior Dongfang whether he wants to settle this karma with you," said Chai Shun, his eyes smiling mockingly. "Now you''re talking about us being of the same sect and family. Where was that brotherly love when you treated me like dirt?"


    Chai Long''s face turned pale, his legs trembling as he noticed Fang Chen walking toward them.


    The four elderly women, seeing that Fang Chen ignored them, instantly breathed a sigh of relief, feeling as if they had survived a disaster.


    They instinctively looked at the scattered corpse of Qi Ran, the one who had shielded them from disaster.... If it weren''t for him, given the normal course of events, they would surely have pressured Fang Chen to hand over the inheritance, or even resorted to violence... The consequences would have been unimaginable!


    "Daoist Dongfang!" Chai Jia''s ancestor took the lead in bowing with sped hands, his expression respectful. "Thank you for saving my disciple!"


    Chi Chong also immediately bowed to Fang Chen.


    Behind Fang Chen stood several figures, some of which were disciples of Chi Chong. Chi Chong''s eldest disciple, Mo Chou, saw his junior brothers and sisters resurrected from the dead, and had a mixture of shock and suspicion.


    <i>Were they truly his junior siblings? Or some strange and evil beings like the ck and white paper figures?</i>


    "Master, it was Senior Dongfang who saved us. We really aren''t ghosts," Chi Chong''s disciples hurriedly exined when they saw Mo Chou and others getting suspicious.


    "Yes, yes," Chi Chong nodded repeatedly, looking gratefully at Fang Chen. There was shame written all over his face. "Daoist Dongfang, I am ashamed of my previous inappropriate words in the Immortal Tomb. Please forgive me."


    Fang Chen replied, "Since you''re ashamed, then go die."


    A look of astonishment appeared on Chi Chong''s face, but before he could react, his head was swiftly taken off by the ck paper figure andnded on the ground. His headless body swayed for a moment before crashing heavily to the ground, blood gushing out like a fountain.


    Mo Chou and the others were instantly stunned, and even those Fang Chen had rescued were shocked.


    The surrounding cultivators were filled with overwhelming fear. The figure before them who had emerged from the Immortal Tomb, seemed akin to a death star. Even the son of the Prefect was killed without hesitation. Even Foundation Building Realm cultivators¡¯ lives were like insignificant ants...


    They dared not speak, nor did they dare to meet Fang Chen''s gaze as they kept their heads lowered and eyes on their toes, fearing to give Fang Chen any reason to kill them.


    Chai Jia''s ancestor stared at Chi Chong''s corpse in a daze for a while before finally raising his head to address Fang Chen. "Daoist Dongfang, Chi Chong indeed deserved to die."


    Mo Chou slowly came to his senses, looking at Fang Chen in despair. "You... you killed my master...."


    Fang Chen smiled lightly. "Do you want to avenge your master?"


    He suspected Chi Chong was a Spirit Blood Sect cultivator, but he couldn''t be bothered to find evidence. Chi Chong''s numerous attempts to shift the me onto him in the Immortal Tomb were enough to warrant his death.


    Mo Chou hesitated for a few breaths before speaking softly. "May I take my master''s body?"


    Seeing Fang Chen nod, she immediately turned and walked away with Chi Chong''s corpse. Her junior brothers and sisters hurriedly followed, not daring to linger any longer.


    Though filled with grief and anger, they did not dare show it.


    The Qi Refining Realm cultivators rescued by Fang Chen hadplex expressions. On one hand, it was their master; on the other, it was their savior. "Senior Dongfang, we will take our leave..."


    However, when they thought about how Chi Chong had unhesitatingly left the Immortal Tomb earlier and ignored their cries for help, theymented their master''s death a little less.


    Fang Chen nodded gently. "Go ahead."


    After they left, the remaining group of Qi Refining Realm cultivators returned silently to their families and friends.


    Just then, a foul smell wafted over.


    A cultivator instinctively wrinkled their brow, looking towards the source of the odor, their expression suddenly bing extremely odd.


    Chai Shun looked utterly shocked. "Chai Long, did you just piss yourself?"


    Chai Long''s face turned deep red. "I-I was just startled by Senior Dongfang''s anger, it was involuntary...."


    He hadn''t expected to be so scared that he would end up like this.


    Chai Shun pondered for a moment, then decided to be honest despite the fact that Chai Long had soiled himself. "Senior Dongfang, Chai Long said a lot of bad things about you earlier and even took pleasure in your misfortune and embarrassment."


    Chai Long''s face immediately turned pale.


    He had wet himself from fear and yet Chai Shun still didn''t let him off the hook?

 Chapter 562: Lightning Divine Beast

    <h4>Chapter 562: Lightning Divine Beast</h4>


    Fang Chen sighed softly. "Daoist Chai, your junior''s temperament is not good. I''m afraid he won''t amount to much and might easily bring trouble to your Chai family."


    The Chai Family¡¯s ancestor immediately struck Chai Long with a palm, shattering all his immortal veins.


    "Ancestor..."


    Chai Long knelt. With every breath he took, blood rushed out of his mouth. He stared at his family ancestor in disbelief.


    However, the Chai Family ancestor didn''t even look at him. Instead, he cautiously smiled at Fang Chen and said, "Daoist Dongfang, your reminder was timely. It has prevented a disaster for my family in the future. I am deeply grateful, deeply grateful!"


    Fang Chen nodded lightly after witnessing his decisive action. "You have a future."


    Fang Chen then took out a storage ring and handed it to the Chai Family¡¯s ancestor, transmitting his voice, "<i>This is a storage ring left by a Golden Core cultivator. I don''t know what''s inside, but with it, your visit here won''t be in vain. Nurture Chai Shun well; he can shoulder great responsibilities.</i>"


    The Chai Family ancestor tightly grasped the storage ring, suppressing his inner joy, and transmitted, "<i>Thank you very much, Daoist!</i>"


    He deeply admired his own wisdom in choosing wisely. He had picked the right side to stand on! Sometimes, choices were more important than efforts!


    Fang Chen turned to Chai Shun and nodded with a smile. "Chai Shun, I''ll see you again in the future."


    The ck and white paper figures immediately turned into wisps of green smoke and disappeared. Fang Chen also transformed into a sword light, shooting into the sky and disappearing into the horizon.


    The four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators had finally managed to calm down their nerves and let out sighs of relief.


    However, when they saw Fang Chen transform into a sword light, they were shocked again.


    "Th-this is the Sword Transformation Technique!"


    The Chai Family ancestor''s pupils dted. "It''s actually the Sword Transformation Technique..."


    ¡°Ancestor... Ancestor, what is the Sword Transformation Technique?¡± Chai Shun asked cautiously.


    The Chai Family ancestor looked at him adoringly. "Child, I once had the privilege of meeting a sword cultivator and the Sword Transformation Technique is one of their hallmarks. In this world, only sword cultivators can transform into swords and travel.


    "You have fostered a good rtionship with Daoist Dongfang. There may be a great opportunity in the future. From now on, you will be the young master of the Chai Family."


    The Chai family disciples hadplex expressions, tinged with envy. When Chai Long heard this, he was so enraged that he rolled his eyes and passed out on the spot.


    "Let''s leave first. Daoist Dongfang has killed the son of the Azure Dao Prefecture¡¯s Prefect. Although we aren¡¯t directly involved, it may bring some trouble." the Chai Family ancestor exined, leading the disciples away.


    As long as they left in time, even the Prefect of Azure Dao Prefecture wouldn''t be able to find them. The Central Continent was vast, and nobody knew exactly where the Chai Family was located.


    "A sword cultivator... he''s actually a sword cultivator..."


    "No wonder he could obtain the Daoist inheritance. The inheritance of sword cultivators is not weaker than that of the Daoist sects, and in some cases, it may even be stronger!"


    "Who exactly is he? Do any of you recognize him?"


    "Look at that Immortal Tomb!"


    Everyone looked toward the Immortal Tomb. They saw the gate suddenly close. Then, the tomb turned into a phantom and disappeared into thin air before their eyes.


    Such eerie methods made them feel even more terrified of the owner of the Immortal Tomb!


    "We can consider ourselves lucky to survive this ordeal," the old woman said resentfully, ncing at the three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators.


    The three Nascent Soul Realm cultivators nodded in agreement.


    It truly was a narrow escape. Fortunately, they refrained from taking action against that junior in the Immortal Tomb. Otherwise, the consequences would have been unimaginable. They had initially thought the junior would soar to great heights with the Immortal Tomb''s fortune, only to discover that he was already a sword cultivator!


    The identity of a sword cultivator alone was enough to deter most people from provoking him. If he had revealed himself as a sword cultivator earlier, Qi Ran might not have dared to brazenly snatch the fortune, and the tragedy might have been avoided.


    Many sighed and shook their heads as they departed. Aside from broadening their horizons, this trip yielded almost no benefits. If anything, the only thing they left with was their nerves in a mess.


    The four Nascent Soul Realm cultivators also left with their respective disciples. Before long, the number of cultivators in ck Mountain Valley dwindled to less than a tenth of what it had been.


    The ck paper figure sneered from the darkness. "My lord, how can the inheritance of sword cultivatorspare to that of the Daoist sects? These people here think the current Daoist sects are the same as those of the past. They are truly short-sighted."


    Meanwhile, even though the white paper figure remained silent, the disdain on its face was evident, clearly scoffing at those people¡¯s beliefs.


    Fang Chen contemted silently. In ancient times, powerful cultivators from Daoist Sects could cultivate techniques like the Heavenly Abhorrence Technique, which might not have been weaker in terms of methodspared to the sword cultivators, and perhaps even stronger. However, in the present day, sword cultivators were universally recognized as those with the strongest techniques.


    Just then, Fang Chen''s gaze locked onto several Foundation Building Realm cultivators. In the next moment, he silently arrived at the shadows behind them and observed quietly.


    "What should we do? Not only did this mission fail, but Qi Ran was also killed. There might be repercussions from Azure Dao Prefecture."


    "It shouldn''t affect the lord¡¯s n, right? After all, the prefect has collected enough wealth, and they don''t know our true identities..."


    "Let''s return to Azure Dao Prefecture first. My transmission talisman can''t transmit messages over such a distance in time to inform the lord."


    "Yes, let''s go back and report to the lord, and also inform the senior members of the sect about what happened today. Those two paper figures were truly bizarre and probably used some remarkable technique. If the sect''s powerful figures can secretly seize them, perhaps one day we''ll all have a chance to cultivate such techniques."


    "Although the mission failed, as long as we deliver the message quickly, our superiors shouldn''t me us."


    After discussing briefly, several Foundation Building Realm cultivators broke through the air toward Azure Dao Prefecture. Little did they realize, a figure had been shadowing them all along.


    Monthster...


    Several Foundation Building Realm cultivators entered the territory of Azure Dao Prefecture and halted. One of them took out a transmission talisman and was about to make a move when the token was suddenly smacked out of thin air by a hand.


    When they saw that the person who had unexpectedly appeared was Fang Chen, their shock and horror were beyond words.


    One of the Foundation Building Realm cultivators gathered the courage and said,¡°S-Sir, we have no grudges with you.¡±


    "You may not have a grudge with me personally, but I have some history with the Spirit Blood Sect." Fang Chen smiled. "Who is your ''Lord''? Tell me, and I might spare your lives."


    Upon hearing the words "Spirit Blood Sect," they were rmed and attempted to scatter and flee. However, metal prisons suddenly materialized in the air, trapping them inside with unbreakable strength derived from the power of metal.


    Fang Chen chuckled. "There''s no escaping now. Cooperate, and you might live."


    "Why did you deliberately take the Heavenly Evil Fruit from the Immortal Tomb? How did you know about our ns!?" asked one of the cultivators instead of cooperating.


    His expression turned grave as he tried to extract information from Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen muttered softly, ¡°Let''s use them to test the Azure Lightning Technique...''"


    He began attempting to establish a connection with the Lightning Divine Beast using the methods he knew. Suddenly, everything around him dimmed, and he felt as though he were in the dark expanse of the universe. In the farthest reaches, he faintly saw a burst of lightning.


    <i>The Lightning Divine Beast?</i>


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 563: Qin Nie

    <h4>Chapter 563: Qin Nie</h4>


    Fang Chen couldn''t see the true appearance of that ball of lightning, but he felt an endless distance separating them and a trace of the destructive power of lightning emanating from it.


    That sensation was inexplicable. It was as if a bridge had been established between them.


    He tried to approach the lightning, but he suddenly snapped out of that state and returned to the outside world.


    Unlike before, not only was he able to sense the power of the five elements and the power of lightning, but he also saw a rare, faint green lightning energy that exuded a destructive aura.


    Fang Chen''s thoughts flickered. <i>Is this the power of azure?</i>


    Whether it was or not depended on whether he could sessfully execute the Azure Lightning Technique.


    The ck and white paper figures appeared beside Fang Chen at some point, their eyes revealing a hint of anticipation.


    "What exactly do you intend to do?" a Spirit Blood Sect cultivator asked with a stern voice. "You know we are disciples of the Spirit Blood Sect, yet you still interfere? Aren''t you afraid of incurring terrifying karma and annihtion of body and soul!?"


    The ck paper figure smirked. "Karma? That''s what our lineage fears the least."


    The Spirit Blood Sect Foundation Building Realm cultivators looked at the two paper figures with fear creeping into their hearts.


    Fang Chen suddenly chuckled. "If the Spirit Blood Sect isn''t afraid of karma, then why should I be?"


    In an instant, a bolt of green lightning descended from above. One Spirit Blood Sect Foundation Building Realm cultivator could only let out a scream before being sted into dust with not a hair left intact.


    That Foundation Building Realm cultivator¡¯s cultivation base was not low, and was already at the peak stage.


    The ck and white paper figures exchanged nces, their faces showing a strange smile. "Lord is truly a natural-born Dao genius."


    Fang Chen''s eyes revealed a hint of contemtion. He had just killed a peak Foundation Building Realm cultivator. It felt as though he had done it on a whim; it was effortless. What if he went all out?


    <i>Could the offensive power of the Azure Lightning Technique be as deadly as the third sword of the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture when dealing with Nascent Soul cultivators?</i>


    Inside the cages, the Spirit Blood Sect cultivators trembled uncontrobly as they watched theirrades being turned to ashes by lightning.


    lightning techniques, the inexplicably powerful power of metal, the elusive ck and white paper figures, the Sword Transformation Technique...


    All these signs indicated that the person before them had an extraordinary background. Moreover, despite knowing they were Spirit Blood Sect cultivators, he still acted against them. That made them think of one ce!


    "You are a cultivator from the Killing Spiritual Division!"


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "Yes, I am a cultivator from the Killing Spiritual Division."


    Despair appeared on their faces.


    Having only gained prominence around a thousand years ago, the Killing Spiritual Division wasn''t as prominent for as long as the Spirit Blood Sect. However, the members of the Spirit Blood Sect were well-aware of the methods the Killing Spiritual Division members employed against them.


    Over the years, countless Spirit Blood Sect cultivators had died at the hands of the Killing Spiritual Division, while the Spirit Blood Sect had also hunted down many disciples of the Killing Spiritual Division.


    The enmity between the two sides was irreconcble, and being exposed by them was even worse than being exposed by those immortal courts and manors.


    There was a chance that some immortal courts and manor would turn a blind eye to them, but cultivators of the Killing Spiritual Division wouldn''t!


    Fang Chen asked, "What do you think of the lightning technique? I believe that cultivator''s soul probably dispersed as well, and might not even be able to reincarnate."


    The Spirit Blood Sect cultivators remained silent.


    "If you can still reincarnate, even if you be a pig or a dog, you might still have a chance to follow the path of cultivation," Fang Chen continued.


    ¡°What do you want to know? Go ahead and ask, I only plead that you give me a swift death.¡±


    A smile yed on Fang Chen''s lips. "I want to know more about the person you mentioned earlier, that lord of yours. What''s his full name, where does he live in Azure Dao Manor, and what''s his cultivation level?"


    "Wang Su, if you dare to leak any information, your family will also pay the price," another cultivator said sharply.


    The cultivator who had intended to confess and seek leniency seemed to hesitate upon hearing this threat, his eyes beginning to flicker.


    Fang Chen lightly snapped his fingers. The metallic cage instantly contracted, turning into a square block of metal. The power of metal dissipated, leaving behind a thin piece of skin floating slowly to the ground.


    That piece of skin belonged to the cultivator who had just died being crushed.


    Just as they thought it was over, a bolt of green lightning suddenly struck down from the sky, reducing the skin to ashes.


    Fang Chen said softly, "I can make your deaths quicker and more painless, or I can give you a chance to reincarnate. Just don''t waste too much of my time."


    "I''ll talk, I''ll talk!"


    Wang Su''s face turned pale, and the psychological defenses of the other Foundation Building Realm cultivators seemed to have crumbled as they were all eager to speak up.


    That was even better.


    Fang Chen set up barriers, questioning each of them individually and cross-checking their statements. Anyone attempting deceit would be caught on the spot.


    From their confessions, Fang Chen learned that although Azure Dao Manor was located in a remote area, its territory far exceeded that of ordinary second-tier empires. There were countless sects and factions, with ordinary people mainly under ns formed by immortal cultivation families. For example, several cultivation families could unite to form a n. Those ns might ally with or oppose other ns. However, all ns had to obey the authority of Azure Dao Manor¡¯s Prefect.


    Within Azure Dao Manor, apart from the Prefect, there were only three named and renowned Dao Union Realm experts. There were no Tribtion or Ascension Realm cultivators, and the scale of the sects here was far from that of immortal courts and manor.


    The "lord" mentioned by the cultivators was Qin Nie of the Immortal Qin n, a genius who ranked among the top ns within Azure Dao Manor, with a Dao Union Realm expert backing them.


    However, when it came to how Qin Nie was maneuvering this matter, the few cultivators werepletely clueless.


    "A single n represents millions of people," Fang Chen said lightly, looking at them.


    "Manipting a hundred tribes to engage in discreet conflict, without being noticed afterwards as the handiwork of your Spirit Blood Sect, seems like a task too difficult for a mere Foundation Building Realm cultivator, doesn''t it?"


    "Lord Qin Nie is highly favored by senior figures within the sect. This is a test for him. If he passes this test, he will soar to the sky and immediately ascend to the Golden Core Realm."


    Fang Chen became interested. Killing such a promising stock valued highly by the Spirit Blood Sect would surely make quite a few people in the sect furious, wouldn''t it?


    "We''ve said all we know. Can you give us a quick death?" one of the cultivators asked solemnly.


    "You mentioned something wrong earlier. Obviously, you were lying," said Fang Chen, his smile widening. "You said Qin Nie was only in the early Foundation Building Realm, but they said he had long reached the grandpletion stage"


    Hearing that, the cultivator quickly red at the others angrily. "You even revealed the cultivation level that Qin Nie hides... You deserve no mercy!"


    In the next moment, they were all obliterated by Fang Chen''s Azure Lightning Technique.


    The white paper figure looked somewhat surprised. "Lord, didn''t you say you would give them a chance to reincarnate?"


    Fang Chen chuckled. "They don''t deserve it."


    Reviewing the map in his mind, Fang Chen decided to first check out the situation at the Three Thousand Dao Sect before making a trip to visit the Immortal Qin n.

 Chapter 564: The Grand Thousand Dao Sect

    <h4>Chapter 564: The Grand Thousand Dao Sect</h4>


    One monthter, Fang Chen arrived at Azure Dao Manor. Perhaps coincidentally, the destination within the map the Greenwood Sect¡¯s Ancestor had handed him happened to be within the territory of the Immortal Qin n.


    The Immortal Qin n was dominated by the Qin Family, with several other ns serving as its vassals. Within the n, there were numerous Dao sects, but temples were conspicuously rare. Most Daoists here followed the path of martial arts cultivation rather than immortal cultivation.


    Even in the Central Continent Empire, the inheritance of Daoism was considered unattainable for ordinary people.


    On his journey, Fang Chen sensed an impending storm within the Immortal Qin n. The soldiers dotting the territory were on high alert, as if preparing for war. He knew that was the result of Qin Nie''s orchestration.


    As Fang Chen walked, lost in thought, he unknowingly arrived at a mountain range. Looking around, he could see scattered buildings. Checking both Senior Yun He''s map and the Greenwood Sect Ancestor''s map, the Three Thousand Dao Sect''s site appeared within the mountain range.


    However, the spiritual energy here was thin, so much so that there were no traces of protective formations around the mountains. That almost confirmed what the ck and white paper figure had said. Perhaps the Three Thousand Dao Sect had ceased to exist many years ago.


    With a light sigh, Fang Chen turned into a streak of sword light and entered the mountain range. Before long, he appeared in front of a Dao temple gate.


    There was a young Daoist present, seemingly standing watch. When he saw Fang Chen, he eximed in a mix of shock and anger, "Who are you, and how did you trespass here!"


    The young Daoist''s flying sword was trembling faintly. He was ready to strike Fang Chen at any moment.


    ¡°I wish to meet your Sect Leader,¡± Fang Chen said, bowing respectfully.


    Growing even more vignt, the young Daoist barked in reply, ¡°Meeting the Sect Leader isn¡¯t something you can just request! He has been secluded in the enlightenment of the Golden Core Realm for a hundred years and hasn¡¯t shown himself!"


    He discreetly lit up a Communication Talisman as he stared intently at Fang Chen.


    This was the inner sanctum of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect. It was separated from the outer courtyard by a formation, Fang Chen had infiltrated silently, demonstrating considerable skill. Clearly, his intentions were likely hostile.


    ncing at the que, Fang Chen asked, ¡°Daoist, may I ask, has this ce always been called the Grand Thousand Dao Sect?¡±


    The que bore the words "<i>Grand Thousand Dao Sect.</i>" It differed only by one word from the "Three Thousand Dao Sect." That was clearly no coincidence.


    The youth turned visibly irritated. ¡°You barge into the inner sanctum of our Grand Thousand Dao Sect and ask such questions?¡±


    He felt that Fang Chen was mocking him.


    At that moment, several figures arrived swiftly through the air, standing aloft on flying swords and red coldly at Fang Chen. Their positions seemed to fit into some kind of formation, with Fang Chen at its center.


    Greeting the new arrivals with a bow, the youth was visibly relieved. He hastily said, ¡°Master, Elder Xu, Elder Huang, you¡¯ve arrived just in time. This person sneaked into the inner sanctum and is likely an agent of the Profound Ghost Dao Sect!¡±


    The master he referred to was a woman with a cold demeanor. Her aura indicated that she was at the early stage Foundation Building Realm. Her gaze was icy as she looked at Fang Chen. ¡°Who are you, and how did you intrude here? We hope you can exin yourself, or else...¡±


    ¡°Elder Guan, there¡¯s no need to be so courteous to him. Let¡¯s subdue him first,¡± another elder interrupted, his tone decisive.


    Elder Xu suddenly smiled faintly, waving his sleeve lightly. Instantly, golden beans fell around Fang Chen. In the next moment, these beans transformed into towering golden-armored giants, each tens of feet tall, and attacked Fang Chen simultaneously.


    "Five Elements Controlling Technique? No, although it''s rted to the power of metal, this technique clearly leans more towards All Things as Soldiers."


    All Things as Soldiers was also a Daoist technique, originating from figures like Yu Doni. While it utilized the Five Elements Controlling Technique, it was a more potent variant and consumed less energy. The golden beans seemed refined and were infused with a formidable power of metal. When using this technique, the caster would barely expend any spiritual energy.


    At the same time, the golden-armored giants closed in on Fang Chen. Seeing that, Fang Chen lightly waved his sleeve and the power of metal on the giants dissipated, reverting back into golden beans.


    With the Radiant Divine Eyes, unless the opponent''s cultivation far surpassed Fang Chen''s by arge margin, the control over the surrounding Five Elements belonged solely to him.


    "Please don''t misunderstand, I arrived hastily and intruded here without notification. That was my mistake, but I harbor no ill intent," Fang Chen said, bowing respectfully.


    The several Foundation Building Realm cultivators were somewhat stunned. The way Fang Chen dispelled the technique was quite bizarre.


    <i>Why did the power of metal dissipate like that? </i>


    Elder Guan furrowed her brow slightly. "You say you mean no harm, but you''ve intruded into the inner sanctum of our Grand Thousand Dao Sect. This is a grave offense.¡±


    Fang Chen smiled faintly. "Since I could infiltrate here without a sound, if I had malicious intent, do you think you could stop me?"


    The three of them exchanged looks, slightly taken aback. Elder Xu, who had just thrown out the golden beans, swept her sleeve to collect them back and gazed at Fang Chen. "What¡¯s your name, and what brings you here?"


    Fang Chen pondered silently for a moment before exining, "I am Fang Chen. I am not a cultivator from Azure Dao Manor. I came here today to inquire about the matter concerning the Three Thousand Dao Sect."


    Upon hearing the words "Three Thousand Dao Sect," the three were visibly shocked, and they promptly denied, "We have never heard of any Three Thousand Dao Sect. This is the Grand Thousand Dao Sect. Could it be that you do not know how to read, sir?"


    Elder Guan waved her hand. "If you are looking for the Three Thousand Dao Sect, you might havee to the wrong ce. If you truly have no ill intentions, please leave now."


    Fang Chen sighed. "Your reactions clearly indicate that you know about the Three Thousand Dao Sect."


    Elder Xu''s eyes revealed a hint of anger. "Three Thousand Dao Sect this, Three Thousand Dao Sect that. You people hear a few rumors and start daydreaming all day, attempting to gain something from our Grand Thousand Dao Sect? After all these years, haven''t you taken enough from us?


    ¡°Whether it¡¯s useful or useless, you have taken everything. You even snatch away disciples with a bit of talent from us. Are you only satisfied when you''ve exterminated uspletely!?"


    Fang Chen was slightly surprised. "What do you mean by this?"


    Elder Xu was about to burst into a tirade but was stopped by Elder Guan with a wave of her hand.


    Elder Guan looked at Fang Chen with suspicion. "Are you a Dao cultivator? What are your intentions ining here? Please speak frankly."


    "In that case, I''ll be straightforward. I was able to step onto the immortal path because I met a senior. This senior instructed me to register at the Three Thousand Dao Sect after reaching Foundation Building Realm. I became aware that... the Three Thousand Dao Sect may have ceased to exist long ago, but I still wanted toe and see for myself," Fang Chen said calmly. "The location that senior pointed me to led me here.¡±


    The three were slightly stunned, their expressions very odd. "A senior instructed you to register at the Three Thousand Dao Sect after Foundation Building Realm?"


    Elder Huang, who had remained silent until now, murmured, "Could it be Ancestor Hong Qing who has been missing for hundreds of years. Back then, he also strongly wanted to change our name back...."

 Chapter 565: Promise

    "<em>Ancestor Hong Qing? That''s unlikely... the Sect Leader said he might have already passed on...</em>"


    "<em>As long as his body is not found, he might not have died. Who dares to say that a Nascent Soul Realm powerhouse would die so easily? A Nascent Soul Realm cultivator can live up to eight hundred years!</em>"


    After exchanging a few messages through voice transmission, Elder Guan looked at Fang Chen with a serious expression and asked, "Are you serious? Did a senior teach you immortal techniques and instruct you toe here for enrollment after reaching Foundation Building Realm?"


    "It''s enrollment in the Three Thousand Dao Sect," Fang Chen nced at the que, "not the Grand Thousand Dao Sect."


    Guan¡¯e''s expression softened slightly. "Do you have any proof?"


    "Proof..." Fang Chen pondered for a moment before shaking his head lightly. "I don''t have any proof."


    "No proof, and yet you infiltrate the Grand Thousand Dao Sect just like that?" Elder Xu remarked coldly.


    "Well... even if he infiltrates our sect, there''s nothing here that anyone would covet," Elder Huang said awkwardly.


    Elder Xu''s expression changed rapidly, and he red fiercely at Elder Huang.Fang Chen sped his hands and said, "Everyone, we might be from the same lineage. Could we find another ce to sit down and have a proper discussion? I just want to ask a few things, and after that, I''ll leave."


    The three seemed somewhat swayed.


    Elder Xu scrutinized Fang Chen for a moment and said calmly, "Daoist, why have you been speaking with your eyes closed?"


    Fang Chen opened his eyes.


    The three, including the young Daoist, were surprised.


    <em>Was he born blind?</em>


    But the thought of a blind person sneaking into their inner sanctum undetected made the four fall into aplicated mood.


    A quarter of an hourter, Fang Chen followed Guan¡¯e and the other two to a reception hall. After the disciples served tea and left, Elder Xu began to speak.


    "Daoist, ask whatever you want. If it''s not about the secrets of our Grand Thousand Dao Sect, I''ll dly inform you."


    Fang Chen cut straight to the point. "I want to know about the rtionship between the Grand Thousand Dao Sect and the Three Thousand Dao Sect."


    The three exchanged looks.


    Finally, Guan¡¯e spoke up. "Regarding this matter, if you investigate within the Daoist circles, you should be able to learn about it. It''s been rumored for many years that there was once only one Dao Sect in the world, the Three Thousand Dao Sect. Due to various reasons, it split up, and many people left the Three Thousand Dao Sect, leading to the diverse range of sects we see today.


    "The people seem to have forgotten their origin. Only the ancestor of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect remembered this and, with his disciples, remained steadfast here. The ancestor always imed that he was the orthodox sessor of the Three Thousand Dao Sect, thus retaining the name.


    "However,ter on, the other major sects not only refused to acknowledge us but also found various excuses toe and seize what belonged to us. Under pressure, the Three Thousand Dao Sect was eventually renamed the Grand Thousand Dao Sect."


    Elder Xu scoffed, casting a disdainful look at Fang Chen. "Elder Guan, why bother telling him all this? I think he''s pretending to be ignorant while trying toe here and stir up trouble. On one hand, he denies that we are the orthodox sessors of the Three Thousand Dao Sect, and on the other, he''s scheming to plunder us.


    "Our lineage''s ancestors always sought to continue the legacy of the Three Thousand Dao Sect, but the other sects continued to plunder our resources. In the end, the ancestors were forced to change the sect''s name."


    Fang Chen sighed softly in his heart, wondering what Senior Yun He would think if he knew about this.


    "So, do you understand now? There is no longer a Three Thousand Dao Sect in this world, only the Great Thousand Dao Sect," said Guan¡¯e solemnly.


    "Since you''ve learned all you wanted to know, shouldn¡¯t you leave now?" urged Elder Xu impatiently.


    "May I join the Grand Thousand Dao Sect then? It would also fulfill a promise to my predecessor," asked Fang Chen softly.


    Elder Xu''s face darkened. "Elder Guan, Elder Huang, look at this. How can someone so adamant about joining our Grand Thousand Dao Sect not have ulterior motives?"


    "Does the Great Thousand Dao Sect have the inheritance of the Purple Lightning Talisman? Or the Innate Five Lightning Art? Or the Spiritual Attachment Technique? Or the All Things as Soldiers Technique? Or the Earth Escaping Technique?" Fang Chen suddenly asked.


    The three exchanged astonished looks, unsure of what he meant.


    "We... We do not," answered Guan¡¯e, frowning. "There were rumors of the Innate Five Lightning Art in the past, but it was seized by other sects and lost."


    "If it weren''t for these sects, our Grand Thousand Dao Sect wouldn''t have declined to such a state through the years," managed Elder Xu through clenched teeth.


    Fang Chen continue calmly, "I possess all of these. Would you all like to cultivate them?"


    "What did you say?! You have the inheritance of these techniques!? And you want to impart them to us!?" Elder Xu eximed in disbelief.


    Guan¡¯e and Huang Elder exchanged a look, their expressions bing incredibly serious.


    "After joining, we would be fellow disciples. These few techniques are nothing to fret over, and they rightfully belong to the Three Thousand Dao Sect. I am simply returning them to their rightful owners."


    "You... just wait a moment."


    Elder Xu instinctively stood up and then exchanged a look with Guan¡¯e and Elder Huang. The three silently left the reception hall, their mood only calming down when Fang Chen was out of sight.


    Elder Xu looked troubled. "What do you think? If he truly has these inheritances... should we admit him the sect? But we don''t know much about him. What if he''s a spy?"


    Elder Huang''s expression was peculiar. "Elder Xu, if he indeed possesses these inheritances and has offered them all to our sect, what do we have that is worth an enemy infiltrating us at such a cost? Do you think this is a thousand years ago? Two thousand years ago? Three thousand years ago?"


    "Elder Huang makes sense. I''m starting to believe that he might truly be a disciple Ancestor Hong Qing epted," Guan¡¯e whispered.


    "It''s simple. Before Ancestor Hong Qing disappeared, didn''t he leave behind a stone box that none of us can open? We practice ordinary techniques, not his true legacy," Elder Xu said solemnly. "If he can open it, then I''ll believe he''s Ancestor Hong Qing''s true disciple."


    "What if he came for the stone box? If we hadn''t hidden it well, it would have been taken long ago," Elder Huang suddenly remarked.


    "Please summon the Sect Leader. How could a mere Foundation Building Realm cultivator stir up trouble in front of him? Also, call all the senior brothers and sisters from the other six peaks. With our nine great experts present, there''s no way the stone box would be stolen right under our nose," Guan¡¯e suggested.


    Elder Xu and Elder Huang exchanged nces and nodded simultaneously. If the other party truly was a disciple of Ancestor Hong Qing, then what he said was true. The Grand Thousand Dao Sect was about to reim many legacies, including a lightning technique! That was crucial for the Grand Thousand Dao Sect and worth mobilizing the manpower for.


    The three separately sent messages before returning to the reception hall and inviting Fang Chen to the ancestral hall of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect. At the same time, the peak masters of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect received the message and hurried to the location.


    Along with Guan¡¯e and the others, there were a total of nine Foundation Building Realm cultivators. They represented the core strength of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect.


    These individuals had no idea what was happening and arrived with bewildered expressions. Some directly looked at Guan¡¯e and the others and asked directly, "Why did you gather all of us so urgently? What is going on?"


    "This matter is of great importance. Let''s wait for the Sect Leader to arrive," said Elder Xu.


    Everyone collectively gasped in surprise.


    "Are you all out of your mind? What on earth requires summoning the Sect Leader? Is it because the Profound Ghost Dao Sect is back to attack us?!"

 Chapter 566: Admittance

    "It has nothing to do with the Profound Ghost Dao Sect." Elder Xu shook his head lightly. "You will understand once the Sect Leader arrives."


    "What are you three ying at with these riddles?"


    "Who are you? This is our Grand Thousand Dao Sect''s ancestral hall. Can just anyonee here?"


    Seeing the three of them being mysterious, someone was dissatisfied and directed their attention toward Fang Chen, questioning and scrutinizing him.


    "This is Daoist Fang, he has deep connections with our sect. Please be patient," answered Guan¡¯e in Fang Chen''s steed.


    Just as everyone was about to ask further questions, they suddenly sensed a majestic aura approaching. Shortly after, an elderly man slowly entered the ancestral hall.


    Everyone quickly saluted, "We pay respects to the Sect Leader!"


    The elderly man sat down at the main seat and nodded lightly. Gesturing for everyone to rx, his gaze fell on Fang Chen, sizing him up for a moment before softly asking, "Young friend, they have briefed me on your matter. Are you saying that you are willing to give us those precious Daoist techniques just to join our sect?"


    Everyone was slightly surprised.Fang Chen smiled lightly. "Do I look like I''m joking, Senior?"


    "Not at all." The elderly man earnestly looked Fang Chen over, shook his head gently, and then smiled. "They suspect that you have received teachings from one of our sect''s ancestors. I wish to verify this."


    "How would you like to verify it?" Fang Chen asked.


    "This a stone box that ancestor left behind. If you can open it, then you are indeed that ancestor''s direct disciple. This will be our way of verifying the authenticity of your words."


    The elderly man reached into his robes and forked out a stone box. He used his spiritual energy to gently deliver the stone box in front of Fang Chen.


    "Isn''t this the stone box Ancestor Hong Qing left behind?"


    "Sect Leader, this stone box is a treasure unique to our Grand Thousand Dao Sect. How can you give it away to someone else without authorization!"


    "Don''t worry. Both the Sect Leader and we are here. Who could take it away?"


    Apart from Guan¡¯e and the other six Foundation Building Realm cultivators, everyone was shocked and nervous.


    Ancestor Hong Qing was thest Nascent Soul Realm cultivator of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect, and the stone box he left behind might contain invaluable treasures. It was probably the most precious possession of the sect, carefully guarded and never leaked to the outside world.


    Who would have thought that today, the Sect Leader would personally bring out the stone box and hand it over to a stranger?


    "Could he really be Ancestor Hong Qing''s direct disciple? What''s going on exactly? You three, stop beating around the bush!" someone anxiously pressed Guan¡¯e and the others for answers.


    To calm them down, Guan¡¯e exined the whole story from beginning to end. After hearing it, everyone was dumbfounded.


    "Innate Five Lightning Art? This... This is lightning cultivation we¡¯re talking about? That''s something hardly any sect in Azure Dao Prefecture possesses...."


    "And the Spiritual Attachment Technique, I''ve heard it enhances the effectiveness against evil beings manifold!"


    "Earth Escaping Technique... An escaping technique..."


    The elders looked at Fang Chen in shock, their eyes transitioning from initial skepticism to growing excitement. After all, he had proposed joining the sect in exchange for all these techniques.


    As long as the Sect Leader agreed, the strength of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect would skyrocket! Whether Fang Chen is truly Ancestor Hong Qing''s disciple would be secondary. The crucial point was the inheritance of these techniques!


    "You naturally can tell that if I don''t allow you to join the sect, they won''t let me have peace." The Sect Leader chuckled softly. "Therefore, regardless of whether you are the ancestor''s direct disciple, it won''t affect your admittance. Please, give it a try and see if you can open this stone box."


    Fang Chen''s gaze fell on the stone box. For some reason, he felt a profound familiarity with it. With a simple click, the stone box opened effortlessly in his hands, without any unusual urrences.


    Everyone present was shocked. That stone box had been in the Grand Thousand Dao Sect for many years, and countless attempts had been made to open it, all in vain. The box was made of a special material that even the Golden Core Realm Sect Leader couldn''t damage in the slightest!


    Thus, everyone concluded that the stone box contained precious treasures left behind by Ancestor Hong Qing. Seeing someone easily open it was more than enough to verify his identity.


    The elderly man slowly stood up, his gaze fixed on Fang Chen. After a few breaths, he sped his fists in salute. "I, Junior Pei Qingfeng, pay my respects to you, Martial Uncle!"


    "He truly is Ancestor Hong Qing''s disciple!"


    Guan¡¯e and the others were shaken to the core, quickly following suit in salutation. "We, juniors, pay respects to you, Ancestor!"


    Inside the box was a stone bead engraved with the three Divine Beasts. Fang Chen didn''t understand what it was, so he closed the box slowly and looked toward the elder, a hint of contemtion in his eyes.


    He hadn''t actually taken advantage of the situation. If one were topare, Senior Yun He''s seniority far exceeded that of Ancestor Hong Qing. Fang Chen decided not to mention him to avoidplications, tacitly following along with their spections.


    Fang Chen smiled. "Now, can I be enrolled into the sect?"


    Pei Qingfeng nodded. "Of course, there''s no problem!"


    Fang Chen tossed the stone box to Pei Qingfeng. "I''ll return this stone box to you then."


    However, Pei Qingfeng shook his head, handing the stone box back to Fang Chen. "Martial Uncle, this item was left behind by Ancestor Hong Qing. It should rightfully return to its owner."


    Guan¡¯e and the others looked on with curiosity, eager to see what was inside the stone box. But seeing Pei Qingfeng''s attitude, they dared not speak out of turn.


    Next, Pei Qingfeng struck a bronze bell. Its melodious sound echoed through the Grand Thousand Dao Sect, prompting disciples from all nine peaks to set aside their tasks and rush to the ancestral hall.


    In no time, a total of four hundred disciples from the nine peaks had gathered, with only a few who were away from the sect unable to make it.


    "What''s happening? Why did the Grand Thousand Bell ring?"


    "Could it be that the Profound Ghost Dao Sect is attacking?"


    "Wait, isn''t that the Sect Leader?"


    "Gasp! Has the Profound Ghost Dao Sect reallye knocking? Even the Sect Leader has emerged!"


    Pei Qingfeng looked at the disciples at the door, a faint smile on his face as he announced loudly, "Today is a great day because our sect has an Ancestor returning."


    The disciples were stunned for a moment, their eyes immediately showing delight.


    Pei Qingfeng introduced Fang Chen to everyone. "This is the direct disciple of Ancestor Hong Qing. He did not cultivate in our sect in his early years, and now he has reached the Foundation Building Realm. He hase back to join our sect under themand of Ancestor Hong Qing."


    The disciples were somewhat puzzled. However, when they heard the words "direct disciple of Ancestor Hong Qing," they were deeply shocked.


    When their eyes fell on Fang Chen, however, they became doubtful.


    "He''s so young, and only at the Foundation Building Realm, not the Nascent Soul Realm we imagined..."


    Pei Qingfeng finished speaking and, regardless of the disciples'' reactions, took out a ck register from his robes and opened it. He then wrote Fang Chen''s name on it.


    Fang Chen sighed inwardly. After many years, although he had not truly joined the Three Thousand Dao Sects, he had fulfilled his promise to Senior Yun He in a way.

 Chapter 567: Bestowal of Techniques

    The ck register in Pei Qingfeng''s hand was also a treasure. It emitted an aura somewhat simr to the Heavenly Profound Mirror. Perhaps both were crafted by the same lineage of artifact masters.


    As Pei Qingfeng inscribed Fang Chen''s name on it, Fang Chen felt a subtle connection stirring within him, as if he had established a certain bond with the Grand Thousand Dao Sect.


    Pei Qingfeng put away the ck ledger and smiled as he faced Fang Chen. "Young Martial Uncle, now that you have sessfully joined our sect, even the government will acknowledge it."


    Fang Chen''s eyes flickered with interest. "Was this ledger issued by the government?"


    Pei Qingfeng nodded softly. "This is the Heaven Profound Register, originating from the same source as the Heaven Profound Mirror. In order to establish a sect and found a school, one must obtain a Profound Heaven Register from the authorities. Otherwise, it will be seen as deviating from orthodox teachings and will risk being eradicated."


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. He turned to Guan''e and the rest, whose faces were filled with expectations, and smiled. "Now that I have joined the sect, I will uphold my promise."


    With a wave of his sleeve, a jade slip instantly floated in mid-air, spinning gracefully.


    "This is the Earth Escape Technique."


    <em>Earth Escape Technique!</em>The over four hundred disciples of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect looked shocked for a moment before erupting into joy. Their Elder had just returned to the sect and was already so generous!


    "Earth Escape Technique... The Grand Thousand Dao Sect will finally have a Daoist technique of our own!"


    Elder Xu and the others showed expressions of admiration. A few senior Foundation Building Realm cultivators even had slightly moist eyes, overwhelmed with emotion to the point of tears.


    With another wave of his sleeve, another jade slip spun in mid-air.


    "This is All Things as Soldiers technique!''"


    <em>All Things as Soldiers?</em>


    A pensive look appeared in the eyes of the crowd as they pondered what kind of Daoist technique this could be. Just as they were still contemting, another jade slip flew out.


    "This is the Innate Five Lightning Art!''"


    In an instant, the entire venue erupted. Countless cultivators instinctively inched forward, trying to get closer to this jade slip and understand its content more clearly.


    Elder Xu''s expression darkened suddenly, and he began to calm the agitated crowd. "Settle down. Don''t make a joke of yourselves in front of our Young Martial Uncle!"


    "Is this really a lightning technique!?"


    "Did I mishear? Or am I dreaming? Someone pinch me."


    Someone pped him before asking seriously, "Does it hurt?"


    "Yes."


    "Then you didn''t mishear or dream. The Ancestor indeed gave us the Innate Five Lightning Art!"


    "Escape technique, lightning technique, any one of those cany the foundation for establishing a sect. Our Grand Thousand Dao Sect is going to prosper!" ?????????


    Elder Xu and the others grew incredibly excited.


    Guan¡¯e''s disciple was also in the crowd at that moment, and he excitedly watched what was happening. He couldn''t help but show off to those around him, "I was the first to discover Ancestor¡¯s return and called our Sect Leader and others here. You don''t know, but the strength and methods of the Ancestor are incredibly profound. Elder Xu''s technique is ineffective in front of him!"


    These words immediately attracted countless envious nces.


    At this moment, another jade slip flew into the air.


    "This is the Eight Trigrams Formation."


    <em>Formation!</em>


    Everyone froze. Escape techniques, lightning techniques, and formations¡­. These were all extremely rare inheritances within Daoist techniques!


    Another jade slip soared through the air!


    "This is the Spiritual Attachment Technique!"


    "Spiritual Attachment Technique! I heard that the Spirit Blood Sect has this technique, that''s why their methods are so eerie!"


    The faces of hundreds of cultivators were filled with astonishment, unable to believe their eyes as they looked at the jade slips in the sky.


    Finally, Fang Chen smiled. "That''s all for now."


    "Thank you, Young Martial Uncle!"


    Elder Xu and the other nine Foundation Building Realm cultivators exchanged looks and bowed to Fang Chen with sped fists, their robes settled on the floor, disying utmost respect.


    As the four hundred disciples broke out of their reverie, they bowed and expressed their gratitude as well. "Thank you, Ancestor!"


    Sighing softly, Pei Qingfeng bowed respectfully and said, "Young Martial Uncle, these inheritances... They might allow the Grand Thousand Dao Sect to endure a few more years in this world. I¡¯m deeply grateful."


    Fang Chen smiled lightly. "You''re too kind. Every Dao technique in this world belongs to the Three Thousand Dao Sect."


    <em>Three Thousand Dao Sect...</em>


    Pei Qingfeng and the others looked strange.<em> He is Hong Qing''s direct disciple without a doubt.</em>


    For many years, only Hong Qing wanted to change the name of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect back, trying to restore the orthodox status of the Three Thousand Dao Sect.


    <em>But how difficult was doing something like that? </em>


    The Three Thousand Dao Sect had fallen apart, and their Dao traditions had dissipated. In just the Azure Dao Manor alone, countless Dao sects thrived, and most were stronger than the present-day Great Thousand Dao Sect.


    Not to mention outside, where peak sects had already reached the levels of the Immortal Courts and Immortal Manors. The Grand Thousand Dao Sect did not even have the qualification to look up to such existences.


    "Young Martial Uncle, in the future, try not to mention the words Three Thousand Dao Sect. We don''t want the other Dao sects to catch wind of this, lest they find excuses to trouble us," said Pei Qingfeng, sighing.


    Fang Chen frowned slightly. "Why are they like this?"


    "They are afraid of being criticized as traitors and illegitimate descendants, unwilling to acknowledge the existence of the Three Thousand Dao Sect, dismissing it as groundless talk," said Elder Xu through gritted teeth. "They''re truly a bunch who have forgotten their origins. Without the Three Thousand Dao Sect, where would they be today?"


    Fang Chen pondered silently. If Senior Yun He knew about the current situation, he wondered what his feelings would be.


    Suddenly, a figure stumbled in, covered in blood and wounds. There was arge chunk of flesh missing from his shoulder. "This is bad!"


    "It''s Junior Brother Lin! Wasn''t he supposed to be in the outer courtyard? What happened!?"


    Seemingly out of strength, the figure copsed, but someone caught him just in time.


    With hisst breath, he uttered, "The Profound Ghost Dao Sect hase knocking!"


    After that, hey in the hands of the cultivator who had caught him, dead.


    The faces of everyone present turned extremely grim. The Profound Ghost Dao Sect dares toe today!?


    "Damn it, if we had some time to cultivate the Escape Technique and Lightning Technique, even if we were to face off against them, we might have a chance at winning!" Elder Xu clenched his fists tightly, his eyes filled with resentment. "Damn it, if only we had some time!"


    The expressions of Guan¡¯e and the others varied between anger and seriousness as they all looked towards Pei Qingfeng.


    "If the Profound Ghost Dao Sect dares toe like this, they must have sent a Golden Core Realm cultivator. Right now, our sect only has one Golden Core Realm cultivator which is the Sect Leader himself who is still in the critical stage of advancing from early to mid-stage. If he gets injured in a fight, it could greatly affect his breakthrough!"


    Pei Qingfeng turned to Guan¡¯e and said, "You stay here in the inner sanctum with Martial Uncle to hold the fort. I will go out and see what''s happening."


    "Yes." Guan¡¯e nodded gently.


    Fang Chen said, "Nephew Pei, what kind of background does the Profound Ghost Dao Sect have? Since they''ve shown up today, let''s go out and take a look together."


    "The Profound Ghost Dao Sect is only five hundred miles away from here. They have been trying to swallow up the Grand Thousand Dao Sect for nearly a hundred years. They were already itching to make a move earlier, but they were afraid to act rashly before I advanced to mid-stage. They probably heard that I haven''t made the breakthrough yet ande knocking immediately," Pei Qingfeng exined, ncing at the disciples present.


    Then he whispered to Fang Chen, "Martial Uncle, stay out of sight in this matter. If things go wrong, leave with Guan¡¯e. You are the direct disciple of Ancestor Hong Qing; I cannot allow you to risk your life."

 Chapter 568: Reversing the Natural Order

    <h4>Chapter 568: Reversing the Natural Order</h4>


    Fang Chen discerned the underlying message in Pei Qingfeng''s words. He was implying there were spies from the Profound Ghost Dao Sect within the Grand Thousand Dao Gate. The timing of their attack was too precise, indicating a leak of information.


    Perhaps what the Profound Ghost Dao Sect was really after was the Dao techniques Fang Chen had just bestowed on them!


    "Nephew Pei, you don''t need to say anything more; let''s go together."


    Fang Chen didn''t borate further. Patting Pei Qingfeng''s shoulder, he flew toward the outer courtyard.


    Pei Qingfeng furrowed his brow slightly. In the end, he sighed before leading Guan¡¯e and the others to follow Fang Chen.


    The Grand Thousand Dao Sect was divided into the outer courtyard and the inner sanctum. The inner sanctum was the true ce for orthodox cultivation of immortal techniques. The outer courtyard, however, hosted martial artists responsible for receiving pilgrims and managing the sect''s secr affairs.


    Due to the decline of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect, the outer courtyard''s influence had dwindled. It could only attract a few hundred local vigers as pilgrims daily. Today, these vigers stood by, visibly shocked.


    All the disciples of the outer courtyard had already been captured. Some of them had even been executed.


    Facing these outer courtyard disciples was another group dressed in Daoist robes. Everyone in the group exuded an aura belonging to at least the Foundation Building Realm. There was an elderly Daoist with sparse hair and a very aged appearance among them. A few Foundation Building Realm were standing close to this elder, visibly protecting him.


    Unlike the Grand Thousand Dao Sect''s green robes, these Daoists wore robes with a ck base and red ents. The red threads embroidered eerie ghostly figures.


    The old Daoist cleared his throat lightly before turning to the vigers with a kindly expression. ¡°<i>Ahem</i>... No need to fear. From now on, the Grand Thousand Dao Sect will merge with the Profound Ghost Dao Sect. Those whoe for incense maye for incense, and those seeking blessings may seek blessings."


    The vigers, having likely experienced simr situations before, immediately felt relieved upon hearing the old Daoist''s words. At least this incident wouldn''t implicate them.


    After reassuring the vigers, the old Daoist smiled and turned to look in a certain direction.


    "Your Sect Leader should be arriving soon. If not, I''m afraid he''ll only be here to collect your bodies."


    Hundreds of outer courtyard disciples of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect showed expressions of fear, anger, or despair. They were mostly martial artists, with their cultivation levels mostly in the Human Profound Stage, with some in the Earth Profound Stage and Heaven Profound Profound.


    When they encountered these Profound Ghost Dao Sect cultivators, they were subdued in an instant except for a dozen or so Martial Emperors who managed to exchange a few moves. The methods of these Profound Ghost Dao Sect cultivators were too strange and extremely formidable; they were capable of manipting evil creatures.


    A young Daoist approached the old man and suggested softly, "Master, why spare their lives? Just kill them directly."


    This young man had sunken eyes, and his lips were tinged with purple-ck, exuding a sinister aura even under the sunlight.


    "Kill them? Then will you manage this outer courtyard?" the old Daoist replied calmly.


    The young Daoist was momentarily stumped, remaining silent.


    ¡°You... you all should stop dreaming! We are disciples of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect; there¡¯s no way we would do anything for your Profound Ghost Dao Sect. If you want to kill us, then just do it quickly!¡±


    A strong middle-aged Dao cultivator fiercely resisted. However, strong spiritual energy suppressed him and restricted his movement. His face was flushed with anger as he red at the old Daoist and the others.


    The young Daoist sneered. ¡°If you want to die, I can grant your wish.¡±


    Just as the young Daoist was about to make a move, the void in front of them flickered with light.


    The light was like an opened door, and numerous cultivators flew out from beyond it.


    ¡°The immortals from the inner sanctum have arrived!!¡±


    The Daoists from the outer courtyard were instantly uplifted, and even the vigers around them showed expressions of joy.


    These vigers preferred dealing with the Daoists from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect. They had heard that the Daoists from the Profound Ghost Dao Sect were ruthless. There were even rumors circting that they had secretly killed quite a few mortals!


    Pei Qingfeng¡¯s gaze was as sharp as lightning as he stood in the void, coldly staring at the old Daoist cultivator. ¡°Daoist Five Ghosts, we¡¯re the ones you¡¯re after. Why take your anger out on them?¡±


    ¡°Daoist Pei, I heard you went into seclusion to break through to the mid-stage of the Golden Core Realm. Now that you¡¯vee out early, I assume you¡¯ve failed?¡±


    The corners of Daoist Five Ghosts'' mouth lifted slightly, his expression a mix of a smile and a sneer as he looked at Pei Qingfeng.


    The aura emanating from him was far more powerful than Pei Qingfeng¡¯s, clearly showing he was a mid-stage Golden Core Realm cultivator.


    After speaking, Daoist Five Ghosts cast a fleeting nce at Fang Chen, the amusement in his eyes growing even more obvious.


    "Immortal cultivation is arduous; breaking through realms is never easy." Pei Qingfeng shook his head lightly. "Daoist Five Ghosts, over the years, there hasn''t been much enmity between the Grand Thousand Daoist Sect and the Profound Ghost Dao Sect. Why are you being so aggressive?"


    "Aggressive? Why do you say that, Daoist Pei?" Daoist Five Ghosts looked somewhat surprised. "We are of the same origin. I merely wish for you all to return to the orthodox path."


    Unable to hold back, Elder Xu snapped, "We of the Grand Thousand Daoist Sect are the orthodox ones!"


    Daoist Five Ghosts nced at him coldly. "Just a Foundation Building Realm cultivator, what qualifications do you have to interrupt us?"


    With that, he nced at his disciple and nodded lightly. "Kill ten people, give them a small punishment."


    The young Daoist''s lips curved up slightly as he raised his hand, striking toward the middle-aged Daoist.


    The middle-aged Daoist clenched his teeth. He stared fiercely at the young Daoist as if etching his face into memory and vowing revenge even if he became a ghost.


    "Enough!" Pei Qingfeng''s voice boomed like thunder.


    The aura unique to a Golden Core Realm cultivator radiated from Pei Qingfeng. A sword light flew out from his sleeve, dispelling the attack of the young Daoist.


    The young Daoist''s expression darkened. He cast a cold nce at Pei Qingfeng.


    At that moment, Daoist Five Ghosts also took action. He smiled faintly, and the sound of wailing ghosts seemed to echo through the heavens and earth. Dozens of paper figures suddenly appeared, wailing as they grabbed hold of Pei Qingfeng''s flying sword.


    Pei Qingfeng''s expression turned grim. When these paper figures seized his flying sword, it was tainted. The connection between them was severed. He couldn''t even recall the sword.


    "The Spiritual Attachment Technique?" Fang Chen mused.


    The paper figures Daoist Five Ghosts conjured were different from the ck and white paper figures. They seemed to be evil creatures devoid of intelligence refined and controlled through the Spiritual Attachment Technique.


    <i>Crack!</i>


    After snapping Pei Qingfeng''s flying sword, these paper figures returned to Daoist Five Ghosts'' side. They constantly emitted eerie cries that sent shivers down the spines of the nearby vigers.


    The cultivators of the Profound Ghost Dao Sect gloated and looked smugly toward the Grand Thousand Dao Sect.


    Witnessing this scene, the cultivators of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect felt their hearts sink, and their faces turned grim. Pei Qingfeng was the strongest among them, yet his sword was broken in just one exchange. What could they do next?


    "Daoist Pei, it seems that the methods of your Grand Thousand Dao Sect... are still as weak as before." Daoist Five Ghosts shook his head lightly. "This just proves that your lineage is no longer orthodox. It would be better to submit to our Profound Ghost Dao Sect."


    Pei Qingfeng chuckled lightly, shaking his head. "In this world, who could reverse the natural order? If our ancestors knew I brought my disciples to merge with a branch sect, they would probably jump out of the underworld to give me a beating."


    The young Daoist red coldly at Pei Qingfeng. "Master, he says we''re a branch sect. He simply doesn''t know what''s good for him even in the face of death."


    Daoist Five Ghosts sighed softly and then changed his approach. "How about this, I''ll give you all a way out, as long as you agree to one thing for me."

 Chapter 569: Let’s Sit Down and Talk

    <h4>Chapter 569: Let¡¯s Sit Down and Talk</h4>


    Theplexion of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect''s cultivators changed slightly.


    <i>What is this old ghost scheming again?</i>


    "You might as well speak," said Pei Qingfeng.


    Daoist Five Ghosts pointed at Fang Chen. "Let this young friend visit our sect, and we will not trouble you today."


    The crowd''s thoughts sank as their eyes showed a touch of anger. There''s a traitor in the Grand Thousand Dao Sect!


    Pei Qingfeng shook his head. "Impossible."


    "Why not? Just because he''s the direct disciple of Ancestor Hong Qing? Heh, it''s precisely because of this that our sect values him so much. In fact, that''s why we even dropped by for a visit." Daoist Five Ghosts chuckled lightly. "If you don''t hand him over, I will kill all the disciples of your sect and personally take him back. It¡¯s just a little more effort."


    Fang Chen smiled lightly. "What do you want me for?"


    The young Daoist sneered, his eyes staring at Fang Chen chillingly. "Master is allowing you to not embarrass yourself by asking you toe back with us. Why ask so much? If you want them to live, you might as well obedientlye with us."


    Daoist Five Ghosts smiled faintly. "Ancestor Hong Qing has been missing for many years. Now, a direct disciple of his returns all of a sudden? Don''t you feel that there is something weird about this, Daoist Pei? I¡¯m afraid it¡¯s not worth it to let the Grand Thousand Dao Sect suffer such a disaster for his sake, right?"


    Pei Qingfeng fell silent. After a while, he said, "Do you think the Grand Thousand Dao Sect would do something to harm itself? Moreover, he is my Martial Uncle."


    "In that case..." Daoist Five Ghosts smiled, his voice soft, "let''s fight."


    In an instant, hundreds of Profound Ghost Dao Sect cultivators burst out with a terrifying aura of spiritual energy.


    On the Grand Thousand Dao Sect¡¯s side, they didn''t show weakness either, with hundreds of Daoists'' auras soaring madly, preparing for the imminent battle.


    Fang Chen sighed lightly. "Everyone, fighting and killing won''t solve the problem. Let''s sit down and talk it out."


    Elder Xu and others looked strange. This Martial Uncle was really young and green. What was there to talk about now?


    "Talk? Talk about what?" Daoist Five Ghosts smiled lightly.


    Fang Chen looked at Pei Qingfeng. "Nephew Pei, if the Profound Ghost Dao Sect merges into our Grand Thousand Dao Sect, how should we deal with their disciples? Should we kill them all, or persuade them to repent?"


    "They should all be killed. Their methods arepletely different from ours. We can''t coexist," said Pei Qingfeng, his expression odd.


    Daoist Five Ghosts burst intoughter, and the Profound Ghost Dao Sect cultivators around him joined in on theughter too.


    Suddenly, a ck and a white figure appeared next to the Daoist Five Ghosts, tilting their heads to look at him. Their faces were bright and charming.


    The cultivators of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect were astonished.


    Pei Qingfeng was shocked. "This is...."


    Only the cultivators of the Profound Ghost Dao Sect had not noticed yet. It wasn''t until Daoist Five Ghosts felt the eerie wind on both sides that he looked up, bringing an abrupt halt to hisughter.


    Gradually, the other Profound Ghost Dao Sect cultivators also noticed this, and theirughter slowly ceased.


    Fang Chen smiled. "Daoist Five Ghosts, you have paper figures, and so do I. Let''s sit down and have a good talk, shall we?"


    A strange look appeared on the faces of the cultivators of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect. "Is that Senior Uncle?"


    Daoist Five Ghosts suddenly chuckled,pletely unconcerned about the existence of the ck and white paper figures, as he looked at Fang Chen. "Trying to scare me with the Spiritual Attachment Technique?"


    "I have practiced this technique for over two hundred years. What about you?"


    Fang Chen pondered for a moment before replying, "Less than a year."


    Daoist Five Ghosts shook his head with a smile before uttering, "Retrieve them."


    Thismand was directed at the group of paper figures. The figures cried as they moved, rushing towards the ck and white paper figures. The ck and white figures showed a hint of a smile, then suddenly disappeared like lightning, reappearing next to Daoist Five Ghosts within a breath''s time. They stared nkly at him, their heads tilted.


    Meanwhile, scattered on the ground nearby were fragments of some paper figures. No one could quite make out what had happened.


    "<i>Pfft</i>..."


    A trace of blood leaked from the corner of Daoist Five Ghosts mouth. Despite his two hundred years of cultivation, his paper figures had been instantly destroyed! It had to be said that each of those paper figures possessed strength almost at the peak of Foundation Building Realm.


    A hint of bewilderment flickered in his eyes, soon reced by shock. He stiffened slightly as he finally grasped the immense power of the two paper figures. It was far beyond what he had imagined.


    "Now, shall we sit down and have a talk?" Fang Chen asked calmly.


    "What qualifications do you have..." The young Daoist disciple started to speak, but his words abruptly halted as he looked down, only to find a hole in his chest, with his heart nowhere to be found.


    He murmured weakly, "My heart... where is it..."


    He suddenly copsed, his vital signs ceasing.


    The disciples of Profound Ghost Dao Sect finally sensed that something was amiss. The young Daoist was, after all, a direct disciple of Daoist Five Ghosts. His cultivation was at the mid-stage of Foundation Building Realm.


    <i>A powerful figure like that was killed in an instant! Was it the doing of those two paper figures?</i>


    They all looked towards the ck and white paper figures, their gloating, arrogant expressions reced by shock, suspicion, and dread.


    Elder Xu and the others exchanged looks, shocked and relieved at the same time.


    "The methods of Junior Martial Uncle..."


    They never imagined that this Junior Martial Uncle would possess such strength. His paper figures surpassed Daoist Five Ghosts''s paper figures by leaps and bounds! Now that Junior Martial Uncle had broken Daoist Five Ghosts technique, it was evident Daoist Five Ghosts had been injured. The tide had been turned!


    Daoist Five Ghosts dared not act rashly, staring fixedly at Fang Chen, his tone now serious without the earlier hint of disdain. "Who exactly are you?"


    Fang Chen grinned. "Shall we sit down and talk now?"


    "Grand Elder, don''t give him another chance to ambush us. Please use all your power!"


    Suddenly, several other Foundation Building Realm disciples of the Profound Ghost Dao Sect shouted, leading their disciples to charge toward Fang Chen and the others.


    The ck and white paper figures, seeing that, darted among the group like lightning. Each time they appeared, they took away a few hearts.


    In the blink of an eye, hundreds of Profound Ghost Dao Sect cultivators fell dead on the spot. And a pile of bright-red, warm heartsid before Daoist Five Ghosts.


    The surrounding crowd ofmoners were dumbstruck. It was the first time they had witnessed such a terrifying scene.


    Hundreds of immortal cultivators were simultaneously killed by having their hearts taken out!?


    With their suppression gone, disciples from the outer sect of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect stood up one after another. They looked at the ck and white paper figures with uncertainty, then turned their attention toward Fang Chen.


    They had been here for many years, but they had never heard of such ruthless methods from an Ancestor of the inner sanctum....


    Unbeknownst to them, even the cultivators of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect now had a hint of fear in their eyes.


    Elder Xu and the others initially thought Fang Chen was merely a Foundation Building Realm cultivator, but now... they were uncertain.


    <i>Can a Foundation Building Realm cultivator possess such methods!? Could a foundational Building Realm cultivator effortlessly annihte the people brought by a middle stage Golden Core Realm cultivator!?</i>


    He had even done all that using only two paper figures.


    Their Junior Martial Uncle was stable like a mountain.


    "I repeat, shall we sit down and talk now?" said Fang Chen, his smile widening.


    Daoist Five Ghosts''s face stiffened. Even though he knew he had encountered a tough opponent today, he didn''t want to lose face and intended to tough it out.


    After a moment''s thought, he spoke in a low voice, "What is there to talk about between us, unless..."


    Splurt!


    The white paper figure reached out and pulled out Daoist Five Ghosts''s heart while the ck paper figure seized his Golden Core and crushed it to pieces.


    Daoist Five Ghosts''s eyes gradually lost their luster as he stared nkly at Fang Chen. "I haven''t finished... speaking..."


    Fang Chen shook his head. "You were too slow to my liking. Don''t bother."


    The ck paper figure plunged its hand into Daoist Five Ghosts''s head with a splurt sound, crushing his brain.


    Daoist Five Ghosts''s eyes immediately turned dull and lifeless.


    Thus, all the attackers from the Profound Ghost Dao Sect were wiped out, without a single survivor.

 Chapter 570: Strange Stone Sphere

    <h4>Chapter 570: Strange Stone Sphere</h4>


    The ck and white paper figures bowed toward Fang Chen before transforming into wisps of green smoke and dissipating.


    If not for the pile of still-warm hearts, everyone would have felt as if they had just awoken from a dream.


    The Grand Thousand Dao Sect was supposed to have faced a cmity today. But in just a few moments, that cmity had been easily resolved.


    Pei Qingfeng looked at Fang Chen, his shock still fresh. "Young... Young Martial Uncle... What was that just now?"


    Despite his vast experience, he couldn''t help feeling uneasy and even began to stutter.


    "It''s something simr to the technique Daoist Five Ghosts uses," Fang Chen replied casually.


    The others guessed it was the Spiritual Attachment Technique, but Fang Chen was only at the Foundation Building Realm; how could he use the Spiritual Attachment Technique to unleash this much power? The power he disyed was far stronger than that of Daoist Five Ghosts, who had practiced the technique for over two hundred years.


    "How many Golden Cores does the Profound Ghost Dao Sect have left?" Fang Chen asked.


    Pei Qingfeng''s expression changed slightly, and he whispered, "There are two left. One is their Sect Master, Daoist Five Ghosts''s senior brother. He is slightly stronger than him, at the mid-stage Golden Core Realm. The other one is just at the early stage of the Golden Core Realm and is inferior to me."


    "In that case, I''ll send Little ck with you to handle the matter with the Profound Ghost Dao Sect," decided Fang Chen.


    Elder Xu and the rest were ecstatic. Pei Qingfeng made up his mind and bowed. "Many thanks, Young Martial Uncle. I will surely eradicate the Profound Ghost Dao Sect and let no one escape!"


    The ck paper figure appeared once more. Pei Qingfeng, along with Elder Xu and the others, directly tore through the void toward the location of the Profound Ghost Dao Sect.


    As a result of Pei Qingfeng¡¯s decision, Guan¡¯e remained behind with over a hundred Qi Refining Realm cultivators to clean up the mess.


    Guan¡¯e instructed the Qi Refining Realm disciples to clean up the mess on the scene and handed over the collected storage rings to Fang Chen.


    "Martial Uncle, these are their storage rings. This one belongs to Daoist Five Ghosts," Guan¡¯e said respectfully.


    Fang Chen shook his head and smiled lightly. "No need to give them to me. Count them and keep them for yourself. It seems the disciples in the sect are leading quite frugal lives. If there are spirit stones or treasures, distribute them among them."


    Fang Chen then walked toward the inner sanctum and disappeared into the void.


    Guan''e was stunned like a wooden chicken. She looked down at the rings in her hand. "Senior Uncle Master is being way too... generous, isn''t he?!"


    The items inside these storage rings amounted to a very substantial amount.


    The Qi Refining Realm disciples close to them overheard their conversation, and their hearts trembled. They quickly put in more effort as they did their work.


    Guan''e¡¯s expression wasplicated. She stashed the storage rings and went tofort the vigers. After seeing them off, she approached a middle-aged Daoist.


    The Daoist quickly bowed with a sped fist when he saw her approach. "I, Chen Taiji, pay my respects to you, Master!"


    "We pay our respects to you, Immortal Master Guan!"


    The other Daoists bowed too, their eyes filled with reverence and deference.


    "Taiji, you have shown great courage this time and did not disgrace me in front of the Profound Ghost Dao Sect. Choose a courtyard master to take your ce. In three days, I will take you to the inner sanctum to assist you in condensing your immortal veins," Guan¡¯e said softly.


    Chen Taiji was first surprised, then tears streamed down his face. He knelt down and repeatedly kowtowed. "Thank you, Master! Thank you, Master!"


    The Daoists in the outer sect were full of envy. Entering the inner sanctum meant stepping onto the path of immortality, transforming from mortal to immortal!


    Guan¡¯e looked at the others and said lightly. "Keep striving, all of you. This time, our sect''s foundation is likely to multiply. Before long, we''ll select new disciples, and you all have a chance."


    Upon hearing this, the outer sect disciples showed ecstatic expressions. Their immortal fate had arrived!


    Inner sanctum, ancestral court.


    Fang Chen sat on the stone steps, fidgeting with a stone box and a stone bead. The white paper figure stood at the side, examining these two items.


    "Little White, do you know the origin of this stone bead? How is it rted to our sect?" Fang Chen asked casually.


    Pei Qingfeng mentioned that the stone box was left by Ancestor Hong Qing. However, when Fang Chen opened the stone box, what he used was the spiritual energy cultivated from the Introduction to the Three Thousand Daos. He suspected that this item might be rted to the Three Thousand Dao Sect.


    The white paper figure scrutinized the stone objects for a while before shaking its head lightly. "Mm... I can''t tell what it is."


    Fang Chen took out the Mirror of the Universe. "Little Mirror, what is this thing?"


    "Brother, um... you''ll need to pay me with high-grade spirit stones before I tell you what it is," replied Mirror of the Universe.


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "Got it...."


    Fang Chen knew things were definitely not ordinary.


    "Little White, the Grand Thousand Dao Sect doesn''t have the continuation to the <i>Introduction to the Three Thousand Daos.</i> Do you think I should switch to other techniques or continue searching for Senior Yun He?" Fang Chen asked softly.


    He had been at the early stage of Foundation Building Realm for many years now, and with his increased spiritual energy reaching a bottleneck, he was just one step away from breaking into the mid-stage of Foundation Building Realm. Initially, he thought that the Three Thousand Dao Sect existed in the world and thating here would solve his problem of finding a suitable technique.


    Unfortunately, there was no continuation of the Introduction to the Three Thousand Daos in the Grand Thousand Dao Sect, making the issue of his cultivation technique the most pressing concern.


    The white paper figure¡¯s face showed a troubled expression. "Lord, you have already achieved the Source of Authority. Although you can switch to the previous master''s techniques, his lineage is far inferior and would waste the Source of Authority...."


    It had hoped that Fang Chen could obtain the continuation techniques and continue cultivating, which would lead to unimaginable achievements in the future! Perhaps... another Heavenly Cloud Emperor could emerge!


    However, the Grand Thousand Dao Sect didn''t have the rest of the techniques after the <i>Introduction to the Three Thousand Daos</i>. Who knew how many years it would take Fang Chen to find the Heavenly Cloud Emperor''s remnant soul?


    Fang Chen''s face showed a bitter smile. "You don''t know as well...."


    As he absentmindedly yed with the stone bead in his hand, a thread of spiritual energy quietly flowed into it. The stone bead exerted a suction force, absorbing one thread of spiritual energy after the other, faster and faster. By the time Fang Chen noticed, eighty to ny percent of his internal spiritual energy had already disappeared.


    Fang Chen''s eyes flickered as he looked at the stone bead in his hand.


    Soon, his spiritual energy was depletedpletely. Even though he had extremely strong recovery abilities, the stone bead kept sucking whatever spiritual energy he recovered.


    Rather than being rmed, Fang Chen was delighted. He immediately took out spirit stones from his storage rings and held them in his hand. He absorbed from one side and supplied the stone bead from the other. The spirit stones were rapidly consumed; in the blink of an eye, the stone ate up ten thousand spirit stones worth of spiritual energy. Yet, the stone bead was far from saturated, as its absorption speed only increased!


    "Old freak, what is this stone bead!?" Little Sword eximed.


    "I¡¯m afraid the spirit stones he prepared for you will all be used by this stone bead," Mirror of the Universemented.


    Little Sword was suddenly anxious. These spirit stones had been specifically kept for Little Chen to buy him treasures!


    As time passed, second by second, the spirit stones were consumed at an incredibly fast rate.


    The white paper figure sensed that something was wrong and immediately soared into the air, looking around with a serious expression, preventing outsiders from approaching this ce.


    After some time passed, Guan¡¯e had already returned to the ancestral hall with her disciples. She suddenly noticed an unusual spiritual fluctuation from the ancestral courtyard and decided to investigate. But when she approached, she saw the white paper figure staring at her with cold eyes.


    "The lord has matters, please refrain from approaching without permission," the white paper figure said.


    "Oh, it''s Senior Martial Uncle...."


    Guan''e respectfully bowed and quietly withdrew.

 Chapter 571: You Might Not Be Able to Beat It

    <h4>Chapter 571: You Might Not Be Able to Beat It</h4>


    Several days passed in the blink of an eye.


    Pei Qingfeng returned with the ck paper figure, Elder Xu, and the others. They looked weary but ted; their joy and excitement were palpable.


    The Golden Core Realm and Foundation Building Realm cultivators of the Profound Ghost Dao Sect werepletely wiped out, and not many Qi Refining cultivators managed to flee. This encounter effectively obliterated the Profound Ghost Dao Sect, which had opposed the Grand Thousand Dao Sect for centuries.


    However, Pei Qingfeng brought back the lineage of the Profound Ghost Dao Sect, which originally belonged to the Three Thousand Dao Sect and needed to be reimed.


    After they returned to the inner sanctum, they all intended to see Fang Chen immediately. However, they were quickly rmed when they saw Guan¡¯e and a few other disciples gazing thoughtfully toward the ancestral hall.


    "Guan¡¯e, where is Martial Uncle Fang?" Pei Qingfeng asked.


    Guan¡¯e only just realized that everyone had returned. Upon learning that the Profound Ghost Dao Sect had been destroyed, a hint of joy shed in her eyes.


    She answered, "He is in seclusion, practicing some technique. That white paper figure senior is protecting Martial Uncle Fang during practice. He isn''t allowing us to approach.¡±


    The ck paper figure''s eyes flickered. It transformed into a streak of ck lightning and headed toward the ancestral hall.


    As they watched its departing figure, the onlookers couldn''t help but feel a trace of awe. During this expedition against the Profound Ghost Dao Sect, they hardly had any opportunity to make a move themselves.


    The Profound Ghost Dao Sect was almostpletely exterminated by this Senior ck alone who had demonstrated terrifying methods! Some even suspected that Senior ck possessed the cultivation of Nascent Soul Realm.


    "He went in seclusion to cultivate some technique...." Pei Qingfeng muttered absentmindedly. He asked involuntarily, "For how long?"


    "It''s been about seven days," Guan¡¯e replied softly.


    Pei Qingfeng nodded thoughtfully. "So, Martial Uncle began his seclusion right after we left."


    The ck paper figure approached Fang Chen, who was continuously extracting spiritual energy from spirit stones and then injecting it into a stone bead.


    Confused, he asked the white paper figure, "What is the lord doing?"


    The white paper figure''s expression turned solemn. "The stone bead in the lord''s hand may have something to do with the Three Thousand Dao Sect. It''s not an ordinary object."


    <i>Three Thousand Dao Sect?</i>


    The ck paper figure''s gaze shifted, and together with the white paper figure, he looked at the Stone Bead.


    For a full seven days, the low-grade spirit stones inside Fang Chen''s storage ring visibly decreased at a rapid rate.


    Fang Chen had umted nearly 650,000 low-grade spirit stones, which was no small number.


    The annual expenditure of a Qi Refining Realm cultivator might only amount to several dozen low-grade spirit stones. A Foundation Building Realm cultivator could manage with a few hundred. Even a Golden Core Realm cultivator with tight funds might not spend more than five to six hundred spirit stones a year.


    Yet, in just seven short days, the stone bead had absorbed a full 70,000 low-grade spirit stones, and its absorption rate only elerated as time passed.


    "Little Chen, is it going to devour all the spirit stones? Isn''t this too much?" Little Sword¡¯s voice sounded deeply aggrieved.


    It had been a long time since it had enjoyed a good meal!


    "Don''t worry, I still have some mid-grade spirit stones. I''ll buy you a Profound rank treasure to feast onter," Fang Chen reassured, his gaze fixed on the stone bead with a hint of doubt in his heart.


    <i>Just how much spiritual energy does this stone bead need before it''s satisfied?</i>


    Days passed by. One monthter.


    The Grand Thousand Dao Sect hadpletely integrated and absorbed the Profound Ghost Dao Sect. Initially, Elder Xu and others proposed recing the que of the Profound Ghost Dao Sect with that of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect.


    However, after careful consideration, Pei Qingfeng rejected that proposal. He did not wish for news to spread too quickly, fearing it might invite unnecessary trouble. Quietly making a fortune was the proper way.


    Therefore, Pei Qingfeng waved his hand and distributed two-thirds of the resources obtained from the Profound Ghost Dao Sect. At the same time, he selected over a hundred talented and morally upright disciples from the outer sect to teach them the methods of the Qi Refining Realm.


    Having been suppressed by the Profound Ghost Dao Sect for many years and asionally harassed by other sects, the number of disciples in the Grand Thousand Dao Sect had been decreasing sharply every decade.


    Previously, they might not have been able to maintain a hundred disciples after another hundred or eighty years. Half of the nine peaks elders would likely be gone too after such a period.


    However, the situation had changed. Not only had they absorbed and assimted the resources of the Profound Ghost Dao Sect, but Fang Chen had previously bestowed them with Dao techniques.


    Among them, techniques like All Things as Soldiers and Earth Escape were being referenced by the elders. Only the Spiritual Attachment Technique, the Innate Five Lightning Technique, and the Eight Trigrams Formation were found to be ipatible with their Dao lineage.


    That could be resolved as well. The lineage of the Profound Ghost Dao Sect could be used to cultivate the Spiritual Attachment Technique. As for the Innate Five Lightning Technique and the Eight Trigrams Formation, it would require experimentation to find out if it was suitable.


    "For the newly recruited disciples, let them cultivate the Dao lineage of the Profound Ghost Dao Sect. Later, integrate one of the peaks in the inner sanctum for their residence," Pei Qingfeng instructed.


    Guan¡¯e and the others nodded in agreement.


    It was only natural for the Profound Ghost Dao Sect disciples to cultivate the Spirit Attachment Technique. Otherwise, that technique would be wasted.


    "After Martial Uncle emerges from seclusion, I will personally inquire whether the Dao lineage of the Profound Ghost Dao Sect can cultivate the Innate Five Lighting Art and the Eight Trigrams Formation. If it is possible, some of you may need to abandon your current Dao lineage and switch to the Profound Ghost techniques," Pei Qingfeng said.


    The elders exchanged nces. At their level, switching cultivation techniques could easily lead to mistakes. However, they all understood the importance of the Innate Five Lighting Art. Not being able to cultivate such a technique would be such a waste.


    "Sect Master, what if someone can cultivate both techniques?" Guan¡¯e suddenly asked.


    "Cultivating both techniques? It seems feasible. It''s said that in ancient times, members of the Three Thousand Dao Sect were adept at multiple techniques," Pei Qingfeng mused. "However, those predecessors might have had some method to prevent conflicts or demonic influences when cultivating multiple techniques. If you wish to try, you must be cautious."


    Guan¡¯e nodded subtly. Regardless, she was determined to try. If it didn''t work out, she could consider switching to the Profound Ghost techniques.


    "Senior Uncle has been in seclusion for over a month now, and I feel the spiritual fluctuations from that direction bing more intense. Could there be any issues arising?" Guan¡¯e added.


    Pei Qingfeng instinctively looked toward the direction of the ancestral hall.


    ***


    "Little Chen, how many low-grade spirit stones do we have left?"


    Little Sword''s voice was tense.


    Fang Chen sighed softly. "Only a few tens of thousands left."


    During this period, the speed at which the Stone Bead absorbed spiritual energy had been increasing. Despite nearly draining the initial 650,000 low-grade spirit stones, it showed no signs of stopping.


    "Little Chen, I''m ready to fight it to the end," Little Sword said quietly.


    "You might not be able to beat it," Mirror of the Universe chimed in, a sliver of mockery in its tone.


    Little Sword, seeing an outlet for his frustration, began arguing with Mirror of the Universe.


    Soon, several more days passed.


    Now out of low-grade spirit stones, Fang Chen had no choice but to start using mid-grade spirit stones. Fortunately, the spiritual energy within it was purer and far superior to that of low-grade ones. Given the current absorption rate of the Stone Bead, a couple of hundred mid-grade spirit stones could sustain it for another ten days or so.


    Just as Fang Chen was about to take out another mid-grade spirit stone, he noticed that the stone bead''s absorption speed was slowly decreasing....

 Chapter 572: Three Thousand Dao Realm

    <h4>Chapter 572: Three Thousand Dao Realm</h4>


    A faint white light enveloped the stone bead, and the three divine beasts carved on it seemed toe to life, bing vivid and lifelike.


    Before Fang Chen could inspect it, a sh of white suddenly erupted from the stone bead. By the time the white light faded, Fang Chen had disappeared from his spot together with the two paper figures.


    They appeared atop a towering immortal mountain, shrouded in white clouds from the mid-section up. The ck and white paper figures stood beside Fang Chen. Before them stood an immensely tall Daoist Pce. Standing under the vast doorway, the three of them felt as insignificant as ants.


    A golden que was hung above the Daoist Pce, inscribed with the fourrge words: <i>Three Thousand Dao Realm.</i>


    "Three Thousand Dao Realm..." Fang Chen murmured, countless possibilities shing through his mind.


    The ck and white paper figures looked astonished. They scanned around with their eyes and found that besides the Daoist Pce, there was only a vast sea of clouds,pletely obscuring their surroundings.


    "What level of cultivation can the two of you handle individually?" Fang Chen suddenly asked.


    The ck and white paper figures exchanged a look.


    The white paper figure was the one to answer. "Before the you refined us, the two of us together could contend evenly with an early stage Tribtion Realm cultivator. Now, our strength depends on your cultivation. Together, we might be able to deal with Soul Splitting Realm cultivators."


    Fang Chen was somewhat surprised. He had thought that the ck and white paper figures¡¯ abilities were at most around the Dao Union Realm. It was unexpected that they would be able to deal with an early stage Tribtion Realm cultivator whenbining their strength, which was equivalent to a Profound Immortal.


    It could be seen that the cultivation level of Supreme Dao of Heaven was likely to be above Profound Immortal, and was possibly at the level of Immortal King.


    "What cultivation level should I be for you both to be at your full strength?"


    "At the very least, you need to step into the Upper Three Realms. Besides this, there is another method. When we kill a cultivator, we absorb the karma on their body. The more karma we absorb, the faster our cultivation will recover," said the ck paper figure.


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. Even though the ck and white paper figures weren''t as strong as they had been in the Immortal Tomb, their current strength should be enough to handle the current situation.


    Moreover, this ce was undoubtedly closely rted to the Three Thousand Dao Sect, so there was probably no danger. Thinking of that, Fang Chen gestured for the two to follow him into the Dao Pce before them.


    The ck and white paper figures remained vignt against unknown dangers until the three entered the Dao Pce. The surroundings were calm without any hint of danger. Instead, they felt a strong spiritual energy inside the Dao Pce.


    In front of them, three statues sat side by side. Each one was hundreds of feet tall, yet they were not coarse in appearance; instead, they seemed vivid and lifelike.


    Those were the three Daoists.


    In the center was a green-faced Daoist wearing a purple robe. The Daoist''s expression was stern and majestic. His right hand was raised, where nine five-wed true dragons yed around.


    The Daoist to his left was slightly plump. He had a golden face and was smiling peacefully, his gaze directly looking downward. It was as if he was smiling at them.


    On the far right was a woman dressed in a ck Daoist robe. Her face was shrouded in shadow, making it impossible to see it clearly. If not for her graceful posture and delicate facial features, the three would have found it difficult to discern her gender at a nce.


    The ck and white paper figures sucked in breaths of cold air. They quickly turned to look at Fang Chen with excitement. "Lord, these three may be the true worldly forms of the Three God Beasts!"


    Fang Chen nodded, having put the pieces together as well. The central figure should be the Azure Lightning Divine Beast. The one on the left should be the Twilight Sr Divine Beast. Finally, the one on the right should be the Yin Lunar Divine Beast.


    "It is rumored that in ancient times, only the Three Thousand Dao Sect knew the true worldly forms of the Three Divine Beasts. It seems that the rumors were true." The white paper figure sighed softly. "The forms of the Three Divine Beasts we see are usually mirages. They weren''t as clear as these."


    Fang Chen was somewhat surprised. "Even Supreme Dao of Heaven has never seen the true worldly forms of the Three Divine Beasts?"


    The ck and white paper figures shook their heads lightly. "Since the Three Thousand Dao Sects dissolved, no one has seen the true wordly forms of the Three Divine Beasts again. People imed that the Three Divine Beasts were fake and never existed.


    "Even if they had existed, they must have long since perished. However, they do not understand that without the Three Divine Beasts, many techniques within the Dao Sects would be impossible to perform."


    Fang Chen nodded. When he used the Azure Lightning Techinque, he had indeed "seen" some kind of existence and established a connection with that existence.


    "This ce should be the ancestralnd of the Three Thousand Dao Sect, perhaps it was sealed into the stone bead by the Heavenly Cloud Emperor''s immortal technique. Lord, there may be follow-ups to the Introduction to the Three Thousand Dao.


    The white paper figure looked at Fang Chen, its gaze somewhat solemn.


    "Up ahead... there seems to be something," Fang Chen remarked.


    He had activated the Primordial Immortal Eyes, transforming everything around him into lines, even things concealed beneath certain illusions. Below the Three God Beasts on the stone tform, Fang Chen saw countless densely packed lines, resembling drawers.


    Leading the paper figures to the front of the stone tform, Fang Chen gently touched it. In the next moment, the stone tform slowly revealed anomalies. A cab with countless drawers appeared. On these drawers were various characters.


    Rifling through the names of these drawers with his eyes, Fang Chen noticed that the drawer in the center of the stone tform had the four words <i>Three Thousand Dao Art.</i>


    The paper figures scrutinized the drawers and confirmed their suspicions byparing them to the Dao orthodoxy of the Supreme Dao of Heaven.


    "This is undoubtedly the ancestralnd of the Three Thousand Dao Sect. These drawers should contain the Three Thousand Dao orthodoxy."


    "Will there be theter half of the Three Thousand Dao Art inside?" mumbled Fang Chen.


    His thoughts flickered, attempting to open the drawerbeled "Three Thousand Dao Art." However, regardless of how hard he tried, the drawer remained unmoved until he infused a bit of spiritual energy to open it.


    Before himy a blue jade slip emitting a faint aura.


    The design of the jade slip was ancient and rustic, starkly different from any slip Fang Chen had seen before. Moreover, it was also adorned with carvings of the Three Divine Beasts.


    The paper figures were excited, quietly urging Fang Chen to pick up the jade slip and inspect it to see if it really contained theter half of the Three Thousand Dao Art.


    Fang Chen looked toward the Three Divine Beasts with a solemn expression. "I, Disciple Fang Chen, guided by Senior Yun He, unintentionally set foot in this ce. If I have been presumptuous, I hope the three of you will forgive me."


    He bowed respectfully before reaching out to take the jade slip.


    Spiritual energy slowly flowed into it. In the next moment, a majestic and profound warm current surged from the jade slip straight into his sea of consciousness. Golden lights flickered and coalesced intorge golden words.


    <i>Foundation Building Chapter of the Three Thousand Dao Art.</i>


    Following that, an unending stream of characters poured into Fang Chen''s mind.


    Unconsciously, the spiritual energy within him began to operate along a special path. Sensing that, the ck and white papre figures resumed their roles as guardians, standing beside Fang Chen.


    Having umted a rich and strong foundation since his youth, he was like a balloon filled with water, and now with the Foundation Building Chapter of the Three Thousand Dao Art acting like a needle, Fang Chen''s spiritual energy increased with each cycle, and his aura grew stronger continuously.


    In the blink of an eye, he advanced from the early Foundation Building Realm to the mid Foundation Building Realm, his spiritual energy multiplying several times.


    "The lord''s talent is indeed extraordinary," remarked the white paper figure with a faint smile on its face.

 Chapter 573: Ten Years in This Realm, One Day Outside

    <h4>Chapter 573: Ten Years in This Realm, One Day Outside</h4>


    Two hourster, Fang Chen opened his eyes, his aura calming down. Compared to before, his spiritual energy had increased by at least three times. That meant that it would be easier to use the Third Sword of the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture from now on.


    "When I advance to the grandpletion stage of the Foundation Building Realm or the early Golden Core Realm, the Third Sword will be effortless to use. I won''t need to consume my lifespan to use it anymore."


    "How do you feel?" the white paper figure asked softly.


    Fang Chen smiled. "How do I feel? Better than I''ve ever been."


    He then looked at the jade slip again. Even though it only contained the Foundation Building Chapter, Fang Chen faintly felt that the subsequent chapters such as the Golden Core Chapter and the Nascent Soul Chapter were also contained within it.


    After pondering briefly, he decided to ce the jade slip back into the drawer. It was too precious to carry around casually. Even if the stone bead was ever stolen, the one who took it would not be able to activate it without the Three Thousand Dao heritage, let alone reach this ce.


    After that, Fang Chen opened the other drawers and found that they were all empty, indicating that the Dao Orthodoxies inside had long been lost.


    "If possible, I will retrieve each of the Three Thousand Dao Orthodoxy and return them to their rightful ce," Fang Chen murmured softly to himself.


    Upon hearing that, the ck and white paper figures''s gazes flickered.


    <i>How difficult a task that would be!</i>


    Even their former master, Supreme Dao of Heaven, couldn''t aplish it. After all these years, there might be a First Rate Sect Leader or even an Immortal King-level powerhouse standing behind some of these Dao lineages. Reiming the Dao Orthodoxy from them might be even more difficult than ascending to the Immortal Realm...


    The three of them then explored the surroundings further. Apart from the Dao Pce they were in, everything around them was a vast expanse of white mist. The ck and white paper figures attempted to fly into the clouds, but no matter how far they flew, they couldn''t reach the end and had no choice but to eventually turn back.


    "Forget it, let''s leave for now," Fang Chen said with a wry smile.


    Perhaps the Three Thousand Dao Realm only contained this Dao Pce. It was also possible there were other secrets, but they couldn''t ess them at the moment.


    The ck and white paper figures nodded silently. This ce was indeed too mystical. They would definitely return to explore it further in the future.


    An hourter, the three of them still stood in front of the Dao Pce gate, each looking up at the sky.


    Fang Chen broke the silence after a long pause.


    "Are we... unable to leave?"


    The white paper figure shook its head softly. "I am not sure. Perhaps there''s some mechanism at y?"


    The ck paper figure frowned, in thought. "Do we need someone to inject spiritual energy into the Stone Pearl again?"


    "I just tried, but nothing happens. Besides, I don''t have enough spirit stones on me to inject the bead with," Fang Chen replied, looking at the stone bead in his hand, his brow furrowed in contemtion.


    "Let''s search again. Perhaps the method to leave is inside the Dao Pce," the white paper figure suggested.


    Fang Chen and the ck paper figure nodded slightly, turning back to the Dao Pce to search for a way out.


    Three dayster.


    Fang Chen''s expression grew increasingly solemn as he realized that, no matter how they searched, they couldn''t find a way to leave this ce. Was he destined to be trapped here for the rest of his life?


    Fang Chen finally pinned his hopes on the Mirror of the Universe. "Little Mirror, how do we leave this ce?"


    "My friend... do you still have some medium-grade spirit stones left?"


    Fang Chen''s eyes narrowed slightly. "How much do you need?"


    Mirror of the Universe sighed. "The number of mid-grade spirit stones you have usually wouldn''t be enough to cover the cost of answering this question. But I''ve saved some over the past few years. After a quick calction, it''s barely enough."


    "You old rascal, I feel like you''re taking advantage of the situation," barked Little Sword, sounding suspicious.


    "If I were taking advantage of the situation, I would have done so long ago, not when he has barely a hundred medium-grade spirit stones left," Mirror of the Universe retorted.


    Fang Chen thought for a moment before agreeing, "Fine, they''re all yours."


    He handed over all the mid-grade spirit stones he had left to Mirror of the Universe.


    The ck and white paper figures understood that the book before them might be a treasure. When they saw it absorbing the medium-grade spirit stones, they couldn''t help but feel surprised.


    <i>Another item simr to the stone bead?</i>


    Not long after, the Mirror of the Universe absorbed all the medium-grade spirit stones and said decisively, "My friend, you don''t need to do anything to leave the Three Thousand Dao Realm. You just have to wait for ten years."


    Fang Chen''s expression turned somewhat strange. "Ten years?"


    Ten years might not seem long, but staying here for that long could mean the Spirit Blood Sect''s ns in Azure Doa Manor would likely seed.


    "In this realm, ten years is equivalent to one day in the outside world. My friend, this item is far more useful than that junior," said Mirror of the Universe. "Despite its voracious appetite, it grants you time. With these ten years, coupled with the Feather Spirit Pill, you should be able to reach the Great Perfection stage of Foundation Building."


    Fang Chen felt somewhat shocked. <i>Ten years in this realm equated to just one day outside? </i>


    The Three Thousand Dao Realm was indeed mysterious and profound.


    Fang Chen''s expression turned grim. "Little Mirror, if I want toe back in here, do I need to feed it hundreds of thousands of low-grade spirit stones and some medium-grade spirit stones again?"


    "That won''t be necessary. It mainly consumed so much this instance because, like me, it had gone many years without any spiritual energy," Mirror of the Universe exined. "Based on my estimation, entering once would require only five hundred medium-grade spirit stones, which isn''t much."


    Fang Chen''s expression turned even more strange. "Five hundred medium-grade spirit stones...."


    <i>That wasn''t considered much? </i>


    Fang Chen thought of killed Yu Doni and those people from the Innate Dao Sect, who were all experts in the Middle Three Realms. He had found no more than two hundred mid-grade spirit stones on them.


    However, upon further consideration, five hundred medium-grade spirit stones in exchange for ten years of time did seem reasonable.


    "Little White, Little ck, it seems we might have to stay here for a few years," Fang Chen said, looking at the ck and white paper figures.


    "Lord, the spiritual energy in the Dao Pce is rich. Staying here to cultivate would be highly beneficial," suggested the white paper figure with a thoughtful expression.


    <i>The spiritual energy is rich here? Wait a moment...</i>


    Fang Chen suddenly had a conjecture. <i>Could the rich spiritual energy be derived from the spirit stones he had previously injected?</i>


    Over the next half a year, Fang Chen immersed himself in cultivation within the Dao Pce. With each Feather Spirit Pill he consumed, his cultivation soared. In just six months, he advanced to the peak of the mid-stage of Foundation Building Realm and was ready to break through to thete stage. He had used a total of six Feather Spirit Pills, leaving him with fifty-four.


    Mirror of the Universe had imed that these sixty Feather Spirit Pills were worth far more than two hundred medium-grade spirit stones, and Fang Chen now saw the truth in that statement. The pills'' potency was immense, and he needed a full month to digest their effect.


    Little Sword suddenly burst out, circling Fang Chen excitedly. "Little Chen, Little Chen, I''ve finished digesting!"


    The ck and white paper figures, who had been meditating nearby, opened their eyes in curiosity at the sight of Little Sword''s exuberance.


    Over the past six months, not only had Fang Chen''s cultivation improved significantly, but Little Sword''s sword body had also been slowly strengthening. It was now nearing the threshold of the fifth rank.


    Fang Chen smiled. He still had four Profound ranks treasures; one high-grade with three Dao Imprints, one mid-grade with two Dao Imprints, and two low-grades, each with one Dao Imprint. He tossed the two low-grade treasures to Little Sword.


    Little Sword eagerly devoured them and then returned to Fang Chen''s body to digest them.


    "Good. The time provided by the Three Thousand Dao Realm not only allows me to cultivate, but it also enables Little Sword toplete its digestion."


    Fang Chen realized how timely these ten years were. After all, Little Sword would be of no help to Fang Chan while it was digesting.

 Chapter 574 Grand Completion Stage Foundation Building Realm

    <h4>Chapter 574 Grand Completion Stage Foundation Building Realm</h4>


    A yearter, Fang Chen sessfully broke through from the mid stage of the Foundation Building Realm to thete stage.


    There were forty-two Feather Spirit Pills left.


    In the blink of an eye, another four and a half years passed. With the Feather Spirit Pills, Fang Chen smoothly advanced from thete stage to the grandpletion stage of Foundation Building Realm.


    By that point, the Feather Spirit Pills had nearly been depleted.


    In just six short years, Fang Chen had progressed from the middle stage of Foundation Building Realm all the way to the grandpletion stage, a testament to the extraordinary efficacy of the Feather Spirit Pills. Now, his spiritual energy was incredibly abundant, and he could easily wield various techniques.


    A year ago, Little Sword had alreadypletely devoured the remaining Profound rank treasure. At that time, Fang Chen had tested the Third Sword of the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture.


    Unlike before, he didn''t need to deplete his lifespan to use it and would only exhaust his spiritual energy. This indicated that if he went all out, he was already qualified to use the fourth sword.


    Little Sword asked, "Little Chen, how much longer do we have to stay here? I feel that with a few more Profound rank treasure, I can advance to the fifth rank."


    Fang Chen smiled. "No rush. There are still four years. They will pass quickly."


    Gaze falling on the mottled bloodstains, a hint of contemtion shed in Fang Chen''s eyes.


    Now that he had the Spiritual Attachment Technique and his cultivation had improved, could he try to refine the consciousness within the mottled bloodstains? He shared the idea with Little Sword, who hesitated briefly but ultimately agreed.


    Fang Chen condensed a spiritual me, cing it on the mottled bloodstains. However, the next moment, various angry roars immediately emanated from the bloodstains.


    Little Sword also began to tremble violently, seemingly in great pain.


    Fang Chen immediately withdrew the Spiritual Attachment Technique, "Little Sword, how are you feeling?"


    "I''m, I''m fine... just a bit sore..." Little Sword answered, sounding rather weak and in pain. However, it urged Fang Chen, "Fang Chen, give it another try, I promise I won''t tremble this time."


    Fang Chen shook his head gently. "No, let it be."


    It wasn''t worth risking Little Sword''s well-being just for another attempt. He had watched Little Sword grow step by step. Starting from when it had just hatched from its sword embryo to its current state. He regarded it as family.


    Over the next four years, Fang Chen practiced cultivation while chatting with the ck and white paper figures about events from their era. These two had followed Supreme Dao of Heaven and had witnessed countless battles, any one of which was astonishing to hear about.


    For instance, one year, someone discovered a rare immortal source and even opened up an immortal cave from it. That led to a hundred years of factions fighting each other, with even Profound Immortal falling.


    In another year, an Immortal King went mad, ughtering over thirty-seven million people from his entire n before disappearing without a trace.


    There was also a massive conflict between the Central Continent Empire''s territory, the Northern Dipper Territory, and the Celestial Heaven Territory, which resulted in an Immortal War. From First Rate Sect Leaders to Qi Refining Realm cultivators, and even ordinary martial artists. Everyone participated, causing severe damage to the cultivation world''s origin qi, with seventy percent of cultivators dying.


    Fang Chen couldn''t help but rte this matter to the Spirit Blood Sect. Nevertheless, ording to the ck and white paper figures, the Supreme Dao of Heaven had yet to exist in that era, let alone the Spirit Blood Sect.


    Fang Chen''s expression shifted. "Oh, right."


    That immortal fairy he had seen walking amidst the scorching sun had suddenly crossed his mind. However, he suddenly realized that her features seemed to blur in his memory, as if erased by an eraser.


    After pondering for a while, he shared the few characteristics he remembered with the ck and white paper figures.


    The white paper person pondered thoughtfully. "You mean... back then, you saw an immortal fairy amidst the scorching sun, and after locking eyes with her, your eyes were blinded, thus leading to your Innate Heart Pupil?"


    The ck paper figure shook its head. "It''s impossible for anyone to ascend to the scorching sun. You might have been mistaken. Moreover, the scorching sun is infinitely far from our realm. Even if there were immortals up there, you shouldn''t be able to see."


    Fang Chen nodded, not denying the ck paper person''s spection. "Yes, I''ve also thought about it that way. Perhaps my eyes were ying tricks on me. After all, at that time, I hadn''t be a cultivator yet. I may have been influenced by something."


    "It couldn''t have been a mistake. There must have been some other reason. After all, the Innate Heart Pupil cannot be faked." The white paper figure shook its head. "Even in our era, those born with it were rare, let alone those who acquired itter. The only ones capable of such things would be someone like a First Rate Sect Leader, it''s likely you might have seen one."


    Fang Chen sighed inwardly at these words.


    It was not just about the Innate Heart Pupil. With just a single eye contact, his divine soul had undergone a profound change, allowing it to casually leave his body like an Enlightenment Realm cultivator. Without that, Elder Yun He wouldn''t have noticed him and imparted the Introduction to the Three Thousand Daos to him.


    In turn, none of the subsequent events would have unfolded. Perhaps, he would have lost his ambition, settled down, married, and had children by now. Or perhaps Grand Xia would have been swallowed up by Qingsong. He wouldn''t have ever known about Xia Xuanji''s true identity or even the existence of the Spirit Blood Sect. He would have remained unaware his entire life.


    Therefore, he was very grateful to that fairy and Senior Yun He; without them, nothing would have unfolded as it had.


    ***


    Four years passed swiftly.


    Despitecking the support of Feather Spirit Pills, Fang Chen''s unique cultivation methods remained highly effective. Each time he depleted his spiritual energy, the recovery afterward would increase his reserves by a little and was far more effective than normal.


    During these four years, his focus was not solely on advancing his cultivation but also on mastering techniques such as the Primordial Immortal Eyes, Radiant Divine Eye, Skin Peeling Technique, Azure Lighting Technique and more.


    Ensuring that his cultivation and technique matched each other was important for allowing him to respond optimally inbat.


    As the ten-year period concluded, a warm stream immediately surged forth from the stone bead, and a faint white light enveloped Fang Chen as he disappeared from his spot.


    When Fang Chen reappeared, he was still seated on the stone steps in front of the ancestral hall of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect, in the same posture he had been in when he was sucked inside.


    Fang Chen sighed softly. "I''m finally out."


    Fang Chen looked at the stone bead for a moment. Just as he was about to put it away, he was surprised to see the stone bead slowly melt into his palm and travel up his arm before eventually settling at his brow.


    Perplexed, Fang Chen lightly pressed his index and middle fingers against his brow, distinctly feeling the presence of the stone bead.


    "Martial Uncle, have you emerged from seclusion?"


    Guan''e cautiously approached Fang Chen from not far away. Seeing that the ck and white paper figures were absent, she guessed that Fang Chen had emerged.


    Fang Chen pondered briefly then smiled and asked, "Where is Nephew Pei? I have something to ask him."


    "He''s at the discussion hall. Follow me," Guan''e replied, leading Fang Chen toward the discussion hall.


    As they arrived, discussions were lively and intense, focusing on recent insights into techniques. Upon seeing Fang Chen, everyone immediately stood up respectfully, their faces showing deference as they sped their fists in greeting.


    "We pay our respects to Senior Uncle," they greeted respectfully.

 Chapter 575: Three Solar Fruit

    <h4>Chapter 575: Three Sr Fruit</h4>


    Elder Xu and others showed respectful expressions, deeply impressed by Fang Chen. The moment Fang Chen returned, he had revitalized the Grand Thousand Dao Sect by uprooting the Profound Ghost Dao Sect. Ever since he arrived, it was as if a withered tree had sprouted new life.


    Furthermore, beyond respecting him, they were also profoundly grateful to him. Because of their deep affection for the Grand Thousand Dao Sect, they were unwilling to see it decline.


    Fang Chen smiled and nodded. "No need for formalities."


    He turned to Pei Qingfeng and said, " Nephew Pei, may I have a word with you?"


    Leaving the hall with Pei Qingfeng, Fang Chen got straight to the point and asked, "Nephew, do you happen to know the Ancestor of the Greenwood Sect?"


    Pei Qingfeng looked puzzled. "The Greenwood Sect?"


    He respectfully replied, "I do not know which sect you are referring to. Is it within the Azure Dao Prefecture?"


    "You don''t know it...?" murmured Fang Chen. He then borated, "The Greenwood Sect is an Immortal Manor located within the boundaries of Immortal Dynasty."


    "An Immortal Manor? Wouldn''t that mean it has a Profound Immortal?" Pei Qingfeng was surprised and sighed. "I probably wouldn¡¯t be able to recognize such a sect. Such high-level figures probably wouldn''t spare a nce at the Grand Thousand Dao Sect."


    "You''re mistaken. The Ancestor of the Greenwood Sect is aware of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect and knows that this ce is the ancestral site of the Three Thousand Dao Sect." Fang Chen gently shook his head. "I was only able to reach here because he guided me."


    Pei Qingfeng was somewhat astonished. He had never left Azure Dao Prefecture in his entire life, but he knew that the distance between Azure Dao Manor and Immortal Dynasty was considerable, even for a Nascent Soul.


    <i>How could the experts from Immortal Dynasty Manor know about us? Could it be that the reputation of the Three Thousand Dao Sect remains extremely prominent in Central Continent Empire to this day?</i>


    "Nephew Pei, do you think it''s possible that the Ancestor of Greenwood Sect once practiced in the Grand Thousand Dao Sect?"


    Pei Qingfeng was somewhat astonished and asked involuntarily, "Was that person in the Tribtion Realm?"


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. "I''m not sure, but it should be."


    Pei Qingfeng replied firmly and decisively, "Absolutely impossible. Our sect hasn''t produced such a strong figure in many years. In these hundreds of years, only Ancestor Hong Qing has reached the Nascent Soul Realm."


    Fang Chen fell silent. He spected that there must be some connection between the Ancestor of Greenwood Sect and the Three Thousand Dao Sect, but the specific nature of this rtionship could perhaps only be rified when he next met that senior.


    Fang Chen changed the topic. "Let''s not dwell on this for now. When I arrived, I noticed that the Immortal Qin n was heavily guarded, havingy formations everywhere, as if preparing for something big about to happen. Have you heard anything about this?"


    Pei Qingfeng was taken aback for a moment, then called out Guan¡¯e, Elder Xu, and Elder Huang.


    Pei Qingfeng smiled."Martial Uncle, these three often go out and are most informed about external matters."


    The three were momentarily stunned. "External matters?"


    "Martial Uncle mentioned that, upon arrival, he found the Immortal Qin n on high alert, seemingly preparing for battle. Do any of you know what''s going on?" Pei Qingfeng asked.


    The three finally realized what Pei Qingfeng meant. Elder Xu smiled first. "Sect Master, you''ve been in seclusion for a long time and might not know about this. Some time ago, there was an interesting incident between the Immortal Qin n and the Lang Ya n."


    "Interesting incident?" Fang Chen chuckled lightly. "What kind of incident?"


    "There''s a young wastrel in the Qin n who, for the sake of Langya Yu, the youngdy of the Langya tribe, stole the ''Three Sr Fruit'' that the Qin n ancestor had been growing for many years. It''s well known that the Three Sr Fruit has excellent effects in dealing with the Three Cmities and Nine Tribtions.


    "It is a rare item that is even listed among spiritual medicines. But that young wastrel stole it and gave it to Langya Yu, helping her ovee the first cmity of the three."


    "This should have been a spiritual fruit the Qin n ancestor prepared for his own use." Elder Xu chuckled. "This incident caused quite a stir, and rtions between the two ns have be very tense because of it. As for the mobilization of troops, it should be a pretense for the Langya n. I believe both sides will handle this matter properly."


    Guan¡¯e and Elder Huang also smiled, evidently treating this matter as a joke.


    Fang Chen sighed lightly in his heart. These three didn''t know that the Spirit Blood Sect was behind this all. If the Spirit Blood Sect''s n seeded, the Immortal Qin n and the Langya n would inevitably go to war.


    With the Spirit Blood Sect stirring the pot, other tribes might also be involved, ultimately escting into a major conflict involving hundreds of families. The consequences would be even more severe than those of the Hidden Cloud Region.


    "Martial Uncle, it''s rumored that the Qin n¡¯s ancestors practiced in the Three Thousand Dao Sect in the earliest days. Over the years, they have managed to acquire quite a bit of Dao inheritance through various means." Pei Qingfeng chuckled lightly. "The Qin Family is facing some trouble, but we can easily watch from the sidelines without getting involved."


    Fang Chen''s eyes lit up with interest. "The Qin Family also originates from the Three Thousand Dao Sect?"


    Elder Xu immediately smirked. "Although the Qin Family has that wastrel young master, the family''s illegitimate son is quite outstanding. At a young age, he had already reached the peak of Foundation Building Realm. A few years ago, he even visited our sect to look for benefits. If it weren''t for Sect Master intervening, he might have stayed even longer."


    "You''re talking about Qin Nie," remarked Fang Chen.


    The others looked somewhat surprised.


    Pei Qingfeng curiously asked, "Martial Uncle, you also know about Qin Nie?"


    Fang Chen smiled. "I''ve heard a bit about him, but not much. Please, tell me more."


    "When you speak about Qin Nie, his incredible luckes to mind first. His mother was just a maid in the Qin n, yet she had an affair with the n''s master, getting pregnant with Qin Nie.


    "Shortly after his birth, Qin Nie disyed exceptional talent in cultivation. Despite being an illegitimate child, he received careful nurturing from the Qin n. Now, at the age of only thirty-three, he has achieved the peak of Foundation Building Realm. There are rumors that he might condense the Golden Core before he turns forty."


    "Now that the legitimate heir of the n has encountered trouble, it''s possible that the position of heir will pass to Qin Nie," Elder Xu exined.


    "Thirty-three years old and already at the peak of Foundation Building Realm, his talent is indeed remarkable." Fang Chen nodded thoughtfully.


    At the conclusion of the Hidden Cloud Region conflict, Qin Nie was probably just over ten years old, but his cultivation talent remained a question mark. His rapid advancement may not have been free of the Spirit Blood Sect''s influence; his cultivation could very well have used Spirit Blood Pills to bolster his cultivation


    <i>The Spirit Blood Sect nurturing such a young master of the Qin n suggests their ambitions extend beyond current schemes. They likely see Azure Dao Manor as more than just a ying field, asionally using it to obtain Blood Spirit Divine Pills.</i>


    With that in mind, Fang Chen decided to make a trip. He''d gather information on the current situation between the Immortal Qin n and the Langya n before making any further decisions.


    At that moment, Guan¡¯s expression changed, and she took out a Communication Talisman. After a moment''s contemtion, she frowned and looked toward Fang Chen and Pei Qingfeng.


    "Martial Uncle, Sect Master, someone from the Qin n has arrived at the outer courtyard, and they seem to have quite a background," she reported.


    The others exchanged strange looks; it seemed too coincidental that the Qin n''s arrival followed their recent discussion.


    Pei Qingfeng paused for a moment before turning to Fang Chen. " I''ll go and see why the Qin n member is here."


    Fang Chen nodded. "I''lle along."


    While the Qin n member''s arrival had made them uneasy, their Martial Uncle''s presence reassured them a little.

 Chapter 576: Qin Clan’s Madam

    <h4>Chapter 576: Qin n¡¯s Madam</h4>


    Outside the main hall of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect.


    The newly appointed Courtyard Master stood with a group of Daoist priests, remaining cautious and vignt. There were several figures dressed in ck robes surrounding the hall, each emanating a formidable aura.


    Today, ordinary people could only ess the side halls; none had the qualifications to approach here. Anyone who attempted toe closer would be sternly turned down by the ck-robed figures.


    The Courtyard Master wiped the cold sweat off his forehead, forcing himself to remain calm. "Why hasn''t the Immortal Master from the inner pce arrived yet?"


    Even though he was not a cultivator, he knew about the Qin Family. After all, who didn''t know about them?


    The Immortal Qin n, led by the Qin Family, possessed unfathomable strength. No sect or Daoist school dared to easily offend them, as it would spell utter disaster! There were rumors that everyone in the Qin n was an immortal master, capable of performing immortal techniques even at the age of three or five. Though those rumors were exaggerated to a certain degree, many ordinary martial artists believed them.


    Just then, a burst of white light shimmered in the sky above the outer courtyard, followed by several figures appearing in session. The Courtyard Master breathed a sigh of relief, while the nearby ck-robed figures remained indifferent, scanning the area out of the corner of their eyes.


    At that moment, several figures emerged from the hall, and the Courtyard Master hurriedly led the Daoists forward to wee them.


    The ck-robed figures observed coldly. After a moment, one of them slowly stepped out from the hall and approached Fang Chen and the others.


    "Grand Thousand Sect, Pei Qingfeng, at the early stage of Golden Core Realm?" The ck-robed figure gazed lightly at Pei Qingfeng.


    Pei Qingfeng nodded lightly. "That¡¯s me."


    Elder Xu and the others felt somewhat annoyed. It was rather impolite of the visitor to address the sect master by his name.


    "I am He Baiyan, a mere underling of Madam Qin," He Baiyan nodded. "The madam is currently inside burning incense and paying respects to the gods. Sect Master Pei may enter, but the rest should remain here."


    The others were slightly surprised. <i>Madam Qin? </i>


    This Madam Qin, the wife of the Qin n''s Master, was the same person who had birthed that so-called wastrel young master Elder Xu mentioned moments ago. How could someone of such stature be here at Grand Qian Dao Sect to do acts of worship?


    "Daoist He, this is my martial uncle, and is also the highest-ranking member of our sect," Pei Qingfeng introduced Fang Chen.


    He Baiyan visibly paused. <i>Pei Qingfeng''s Marital Uncle? How have I never heard of such a figure within the Grand Thousand Dao Sect before?</i>


    Having heard Pei Qingfeng address Fang Chen as the highest-ranking member of the sect, he expected him to have an extremely high cultivation base. However, to his surprise, he found that Fang Chen''s aura only belonged to that of ate stage Foundation Building Realm cultivator. This discovery made his seriousness wane.


    He Baiyan nodded lightly. "Please wait here, I will inform her."


    He turned and entered the hall as if they were the hosts and Fang Chen''s group were the guests.


    In just a few moments, He Baiyan returned and addressed Fang Chen and Pei Qingfeng, "The madam invites both of you to enter. Please be careful with your words and actions as to not offend my madam."


    Fang Chen exchanged a nce with Pei Qingfeng and then proceeded toward the hall.


    The hall was spacious and brightly lit, with three statues on a high tform depicting the divine beasts, reminiscent of the carvings in the Immortal Tomb of Supreme Dao of Heaven.


    Even Chai Shun could recognize the Three Divine Beasts, indicating that despite the dissolvment of the Three Thousand Dao Sect over the years, the imagery of the Three Divine Beasts had still been passed down.


    When Fang Chen and Pei Qingfeng entered, they saw a woman kneeling before the Three Divine Beasts statues with her back to Fang Chen and Pei Qingfeng.


    The woman''s figure was curvaceous and graceful. Even though her aura was subtle, Fang Chen could discern at a nce that she was a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator. A cultivation base like that, while not extremely high, was certainly not low either.


    There were several ck-robed cultivators around the woman. They seemed highly vignt, keeping an eye on Fang Chen and Pei Qingfeng. These were different from the guards outside; they were a step higher in cultivation, and were all at the Golden Core Realm.


    He Baiyan approached the woman and bowed respectfully. "My madam, they have arrived."


    The woman rose slowly, turning to face Fang Chen and Pei Qingfeng. She appeared to be in her thirties or forties, with a remarkably delicate and beautiful face. However, herplexion was somewhat pale,cking a healthy flush.


    Pei Qingfeng bowed respectfully. "I, Pei Qingfeng of Grand Thousand Dao Sect, pay my respects to you, Madam Qin."


    Fang Chen nodded. "Fang Chen of Grand Thousand Dao Sect. Greetings, Madam."


    The beautiful madam nodded slightly. "No need for such formality."


    Pei Qingfeng nced at the statues of the Three Divine Beasts and smiled, "Madam Qin, may I ask what brings you to here today?"


    "No reason in particr, just here to burn incense and pay respects to the gods," the woman replied indifferently.


    "Burn incense and pay respects?" Pei Qingfeng''s thoughts stirred slightly as he softly asked, "Forgive my directness, but since the Qin n also originates from Dao Sects and likely has statues of the Three Divine Beasts at home, why would youe so far to burn incense and pay respects?"


    He Baiyan frowned slightly. "The madam''s visit is a gesture of respect to your sect. Haven''t you always imed to be the authentic Dao sect?"


    Pei Qingfeng remained silent, his gaze fixed on the beautiful madam.


    The woman looked at He Baiyan, her brow slightly furrowed. "Please, do not be disrespectful."


    "My apologies," said He Baiyan.


    He nodded lightly and refrained from speaking further.


    The woman showed a slight sorrowful smile. "I am actually here to pray for my son''s well-being. Although the Grand Thousand Dao Sect may have fallen from its former glory, it once thrived. Perhaps the spirits of the Three Divine Beasts here might be more effective."


    Fang Chen and He Baiyan had already guessed the gist of it. They found it strange that someone as distinguished as her, who was a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator, would choose the Grand Thousand Dao Sect to pray for her son.


    "Madam, since the prayers are done, we should take our leave. The current situation is not conducive to staying outside for long," He Baiyan said softly.


    Pei Qingfeng furrowed his brow slightly and probed, "I''ve heard there have been some conflicts between the Immortal Qin n and the Langya n?"


    He Baiyan''s indifferent expression met Pei Qingfeng¡¯s gaze. "You need not know too much about it."


    The beautiful madam nodded slightly. "This matter will have far-reaching ramifications. Your Grand Thousand Dao Sect should also prepare. It seems we may soon go to war with the Langya n."


    Upon hearing this, Pei Qingfeng furrowed his brow tightly.


    He Baiyan smiled bitterly. "Madam, why let them know about this?"


    ncing at He Baiyan, the woman said, "How long can we keep it hidden?"


    She turned her attention back to Pei Qingfeng. "Sect Master Pei, it is rumored that in, ancient times, the Three Thousand Dao Sect''s Three Sr Fruit was inexhaustible. Do you know where it might still exist today? Obtaining it might avert a disaster."


    Pei Qingfeng suddenly realized the true purpose of her visit and nodded. "Indeed, I have heard that in ancient times, the Three Sr Fruit of the Three Thousand Dao Sect was inexhaustible. But over the years, the Three Thousand Dao Sect has long since fallen apart. Even our name was changed to Grand Thousand Dao Sect, and all kinds of inheritances and spiritual items have been taken away one by one.


    "Now, we stand just an ordinary sect. Where could there still be Three Sr Fruit left? I''m afraid I¡¯ll have to disappoint you, Madam."


    "Little Mirror, are there any Three Sr Fruit in the territory of Azure Dao Manor?" Fang Chen suddenly asked.

 Chapter 577: A Deal

    It was obvious from Madam Qin''s visit that she wished to rely on a Three Sr Fruit to resolve the enmity between the Immortal Qin n and the Langya n. Fang Chen didn¡¯t mind fanning the mes, as long as it disrupted the ns of the Spirit Blood Sect.


    "Brother, the Three Sr Fruit is not the Vast Origin Fruit. It can directly neutralize a severe cmity, and its value far surpasses that of the Vast Origin Fruit. It has even made it onto the Heavenly Spiritual Herb Ranking and is revered by the cultivators of this world as a saint-grade herb. However, it is not a true saint-grade herb; it still falls within the category of heaven-grade spiritual medicines."


    "Just tell me, how many spirit stones?"


    "One hundred mid-grade spirit stones."


    Fang Chen turned pensive. <em>Mid-grade spirit stones¡­.</em>


    Upon hearing Pei Qingfeng''s words, Madam Qin turned even more despondent and showed a self-deprecating smile. "I heard from a little Dao cultivator that this ce might resolve my son''s cmity. It seems that his skills arecking."


    "Madam, once we return, I¡¯ll deal with that little Dao cultivator for you," said He Baiyan.


    Madam Qin shook her head. "No need. He meant well, and we appreciate it."


    After speaking, the Madam Mei nodded to Pei Qingfeng and then prepared to leave the with her entourage."Madam, please wait," Fang Chen suddenly said.


    The Madam Mei paused slightly.


    Pei Qingfeng instinctively looked at Fang Chen, a trace of surprise shing in his eyes.


    <em>What is Martial Uncle nning by stopping her?</em>


    Madam Qin turned to look at Fang Chen with a hint of doubt. "You... is there something else?"


    He Baiyan gazed calmly at Fang Chen.


    "Madam, if you had a Three Sr Fruit, would it resolve the enmity between the two ns?" Fang Chen asked.


    Hearing him mention the Three Sr Fruit, the Madam Mei¡¯s eyes flickered, and she nodded slightly. "Indeed, it would."


    "If the Immortal Qin n and Langya n were to go to war, would it affect the entire Immortal Qin n?" Fang Chen asked again.


    The Madam Mei thought for a moment, her expression growing grim. "Naturally. Also, it¡¯s not just that. I fear some other ns might also join the conflict."


    Pei Qingfeng inwardly gasped. If several major n were to go to war simultaneously, what kind of scene would that be? Even thinking about it slightly made his scalp tingle. At that time, sects like the Grand Thousand Dao Sect might be uprooted by those taking advantage of the chaos!


    "Then, at that time, wouldn¡¯t the Immortal Qin n also suffer great losses?" Fang Chen continued.


    The Madam Mei nodded lightly.


    A cold glint shed in He Baiyan¡¯s eyes. "What exactly are you trying to say? Stop beating around the bush!"


    Fang Chen smiled. "Madam, would you be willing to make a deal with me?"


    "A deal? With you?"


    Madam Qin sized up Fang Chen, her eyes showing a hint of suspicion.


    <em>What kind of deal could a mere Foundation Building Realm cultivator offer me?</em>


    "You¡¯ve got a lot of nerve. With your mere early-stage Foundation Building Realm cultivation, are you even qualified to make a deal with Madam?" chided He Baiyan, his voice icy. ?


    He Baiyan''s aura began to surge, and the ck-robed cultivators nearby stepped forward, their gazes coldly fixed on Fang Chen.


    Seeing that, Pei Qingfeng slowly stepped in front of Fang Chen and looked at He Baiyan with calm resolve. "My martial uncle wouldn¡¯t speak without purpose. It¡¯s best if you refrain from interfering in matters between my uncle and the madam."


    He Baiyan''s voice was chilling. "Have you forgotten that you''re merely a Golden Core Realm cultivator?"


    Sensing the tension rising, Madam Qin lightly raised her hand and looked at Fang Chen. "Go ahead, speak."


    "This isn''t the ce to talk. Please,e to the inner sanctum for a brief conversation," Fang Chen said with a cupped fist and a smile.


    Pei Qingfeng¡¯s expression grew a bit strange.


    Madam Qin nodded lightly. "Let''s go then. I hope you won''t disappoint me."


    As Fang Chen prepared to lead Madam Qin to the inner sanctum, He Baiyan intended to follow, but Fang Chen suddenly stopped him.


    "You¡¯d better note along. This deal is of great importance, and I¡¯ll only discuss it with her."


    He Baiyan''s face darkened. "What did you say? Repeat that."


    "It¡¯s fine. I''m a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator; there''s no one here who can harm me in the slightest," Madam Qin reassured him, instructing He Baiyan to stay behind.


    She then left with Fang Chen for the inner sanctum.


    He Baiyan''s gaze remained cold, and he exchanged looks with Pei Qingfeng.


    Pei Qingfeng smiled. "There¡¯s no need for concern. My Martial Uncle is merely at the Foundation Building Realm; he couldn¡¯t possibly harm the madam."


    Outside the sanctum, Guan¡¯e and the others stared nkly at the two figures walking away. One was their Martial Uncle, and the other seemed to be... the Qin Family''s Madam?


    Elder Xu transmitted his voice, his tone strange. "Why is Martial Uncle heading to the inner sanctum with the madam?"


    Guan¡¯e and the others had no answer.


    Inside the inner sanctum, in the discussion hall.


    Madam Qin nced around and noticed that there was no one else around, so she cut to the chase. "Young friend, you mentioned the Three Sr Fruit earlier. Is this deal rted to it?"


    "Please wait a moment," Fang Chen replied and then fell silent, closing his eyes.


    Madam Qin grew increasingly puzzled.


    <em>Why is this mere Foundation Building Realm cultivator soposed and unyielding in my presence? Shouldn¡¯t a Foundation Building Realm cultivator be deferential before a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator?</em>


    Meanwhile, Fang Chen¡¯s divine soul left his body, returning to the outer courtyard. He quietly stood beside He Baiyan, observing him and the surrounding ck-robed cultivators.


    He Baiyan was standing silently with his hands sped behind his back. He was examining the statues of the three divine beasts, ignoring Pei Qingfeng.


    The Qi Refining cultivators outside were also not making any moves, though a Golden Core Realm cultivator did step out and burn a voice Transmission Talisman. He remained calm throughout, as if performing a trivial task.


    Witnessing that, everything became clear to Fang Chen. What he had said earlier hadn''t been just for Madam Qin to hear, but also for these people. If there were anyone among them ced by Qin Nie or the Spirit Blood Sect, they would surely take action as soon as they noticed the madam following him into the inner sanctum.


    After returning his divine soul to his body, Fang Chen nodded slightly. "Indeed, it is rted to the Three Sr Fruit."


    Madam Qin''s face lit up with interest. "Please, speak inly!"


    "I can tell you the whereabouts of the Three Sr Fruit, but first, I need to see if the reward you''re offering is tempting enough for me," said Fang Chen.


    "A reward?" The Madam Mei nodded lightly. "How much do you want?"


    "Ask her for two hundred mid-grade spirit stones," Mirror of the Universe suggested excitedly. "We¡¯ll make a hundred stone profit!"


    Fang Chen said, "One hundred mid-grade spirit stones."


    Madam Qin frowned slightly. "This is no small amount. If I give you one hundred mid-grade spirit stones, will you be able to give me a Three Sr Fruit?"


    Fang Chen shook his head gently. "I can''t give it to you directly, but I can tell you its whereabouts. Whether you can obtain it depends on your own abilities."


    "How can I trust you? You tell me the location of the Three Sr Fruit first. Once I acquire it, I¡¯ll give you one hundred mid-grade spirit stones," Madam Qin countered in a serious tone.


    Fang Chen smiled. "The Qin Family is vast and powerful, with many experts. If you were to renege on our deal, what could the Grand Thousand Dao Sect do about it? Moreover, even if you obtain the Three Sr Fruit, it won¡¯t be enough to resolve the issue entirely. If you can¡¯t address the root of the problem, simr situations will arise again in the future."


    "What do you mean by that?"


    Madam Qin''s gaze deepend as she stared at Fang Chen. Suddenly, her aura surged and enveloped him in an instant.


    Despite that, Fang Chen remained calm and showed no resistance. He casually picked up the teacup from the table and took a sip.

 Chapter 578: Teaming Up

    "If you wish to listen to the details, Madam, I''d suggest you calm down and listen carefully. If you only want to resolve the matter at hand, simply give me one hundred mid-grade spirit stones. I wouldn¡¯t start my day without profit, so the information I provide is naturally worth the price of a hundred mid-grade spirit stones. I wouldn¡¯t set a random price."


    Fang Chen put down the teacup and said calmly.


    The oppressive aura faded, and the beautiful madam fixed her gaze on Fang Chen. "Speak. I¡¯ll listen."


    "The cause of this incident is that your son stole the Three Sr Fruit from his own ancestor and gave it to the youngdy Langya Yu, correct?" Fang Chen said.


    "This matter is known by many," the beautiful madam said indifferently. "If what you have to say is this, then there¡¯s no need to say more."


    "The Three Sr Fruit can resolve the Nine Tribtions of a cultivator even in the Dao Union stage. Such a sacred medicine should be heavily protected. How could an ordinary cultivator steal it? Even if this cultivator is the son of the madam, it¡¯s still unlikely, right?"


    Fang Chen smiled.


    "In this matter, your son must have had an aplice, but this aplice¡¯s intentions may not have been to help your son. On the contrary, they might have wanted to harm him."


    The beautiful madam''s eyes flickered. She slowly nodded. "After this incident happened, we indeed noticed something unusual. My foolish son is only at the early Foundation Building Realm and has no ability to steal the Three Sr Fruit. "However, we have no evidence to acquit my son, and all the me has already been ced on my son. The only way to free him from punishment and prevent him from being demoted to a branch family is to recover the Three Sr Fruit."


    She paused for a moment, her eyes flickering as she looked up and down at Fang Chen. "This matter has nothing to do with you. All I need is for you to find me a Three Sr Fruit."


    Fang Chen shook his head slowly. "Even if you find one, I¡¯m afraid you won¡¯t be able to keep it."


    The beautiful madam frowned slightly. "What do you mean by that?"


    "Someone wants your son dead. How could they allow you to find another Three Sr Fruit to resolve the issue?" Fang Chen smiled faintly. "Madam, who do you think stands to gain the most after your son¡¯s misfortune?"


    "Gain? Naturally, it would be Qin Nie," the beautiful madam responded instinctively. However, after a brief moment, she shook her head slightly. "But this has nothing to do with him. He is mature and understands that doing this would cause the two n to go to war, leading to serious consequences. If he wanted to harm my son, there¡¯s no need to go to such lengths."


    Fang Chen nodded lightly.


    The direction of suspicion toward Qin Nie was indeed misguided, and even the victim''s mother hadn¡¯t doubted him. From the Immortal Qin n¡¯s perspective, Qin Nie had no motive.


    "But what if Qin Nie¡¯s goal isn¡¯t simply to harm your son? What if his real aim is to incite a war between the two ns? Your son might just be a convenient casualty in hisrger n," Fang Chen said calmly.


    "Do you realize what you¡¯re saying?" The beautiful madam¡¯s face grew grim, her voiceced with coldness. "Qin Nie wants to provoke a war between the two ns."


    <em>The prefect? Could it be that Qiran''s father has already been bribed and is turning a blind eye to this matter?</em>


    Fang Chen continued, "This matter holds great benefits for Qin Nie. He could potentially use it as a stepping stone to sessfully advance to the Golden Core Realm, bing a legitimate candidate for the next head of the Qin Family, and eventually taking control of the n. As for you and your son, I fear the oue won¡¯t be favorable."


    "Impossible, you¡¯re spouting nonsense." The beautiful madam suddenly stood up, her gaze now tinged with a hint of killing intent. "What exactly are you after?"


    Fang Chen replied calmly, "Qin Nie is a cultivator from the Spirit Blood Sect. He¡¯s stirring up chaos, aiming to throw Azure Dao Manor into turmoil. He aims to push it into suffering so he can refine Spirit Blood Pills and make a significant contribution to the Spirit Blood Sect. You and your son are merely insignificant pawns in his grand scheme.


    "Therefore, if you wish to resolve this matter, the key is not the Three Sr Fruit but Qin Nie himself. Otherwise, even if you obtain the Three Sr Fruit, if the Spirit Blood Sect gets involved, I¡¯m afraid you won¡¯t be able to keep it."


    She felt as if she had been struck by lightning, her eyes gradually filling with shock. It took her a long while to sit back down. She didn¡¯t speak, seemingly lost in thought, recalling various events.


    After about a quarter of an hour, she softly murmured to herself, "When Qin Nie first started cultivating, his talent wasn¡¯t particrly high, whereas Feng¡¯er¡¯s talent was above his. But as time passed, Qin Nie¡¯s talent seemed to improve significantly. The n began to praise him, and even Feng¡¯er¡¯s father couldn¡¯t stop speaking highly of him.


    "After that, Feng¡¯er threw the towel. He became indifferent to cultivation. Instead, he started wandering around, making friends and exploring.¡­"


    The beautiful madam paused, looking at Fang Chen. "I¡¯ve heard about some of the Spirit Blood Sect¡¯s methods. It¡¯s said that the Spirit Blood Pill can boost one¡¯s cultivation without any bottlenecks. If Qin Nie has been relying on the Spirit Blood Pill to advance so quickly over the years, it would make sense. But how do you know all of this?"


    "I have some enmity with the Spirit Blood Sect. While tracking down leads, I stumbled upon Qin Nie¡¯s involvement," replied Fang Chen with a faint smile.


    The beautiful madam was unsure whether to trust the Foundation Building Realm cultivator standing before her. Her face showed deep contemtion. After a long pause, she hesitated, saying, "I don¡¯t want to be enemies with the Spirit Blood Sect."


    Fang Chen smiled, "That won¡¯t be a problem. I¡¯ll expose Qin Nie and the Spirit Blood Sect cultivators behind him, and you¡¯ll be able to resolve the current crisis facing the Immortal Qin n."


    The woman¡¯s expression turned odd. "But you¡¯re just at the Foundation Building Realm¡­."


    She had heard of the Spirit Blood Sect and knew well how terrifying their methods could be¡ªthey were at least on the level of a immortal court.


    <em>How could a mere Foundation Establishment cultivator possibly handle them? </em>


    Wait!


    Suddenly, a thought struck the beautiful madam, and her eyes lit up with realization. The cultivator before her must have someone powerful backing him. That would exin how he knew such confidential information.


    "We can work together. As for the hundred mid-grade spirit stones, I¡¯ll find a way to gather them for you," she said.


    She had no other choice. Only by joining forces with this man could she hope to save her son.


    "Before we proceed, Madam, are you aware that there¡¯s a spy for Qin Nie among your ranks?"


    The beautiful madam was shocked. "A spy for Qin Nie?"


    Fang Chen then described the appearance and characteristics of the individual, causing the woman¡¯s face to darken.


    "He¡¯s been with me for so many years¡ªhow could he be a spy for Qin Nie?" she muttered in disbelief.


    "If you don¡¯t believe me, then the Three Sr Fruit may never be yours," Fang Chen said, shaking his head.


    "I believe you," the woman responded, her tone resolute. "I¡¯ll find an excuse to bring you with me back to the Qin Family. They will receive word that you¡¯re helping me search for the Three Sr Fruit, while in reality, I¡¯ll send someone else to find it. This way, you¡¯ll have a chance to get close to Qin Nie. What do you think?"


    Fang Chen nodded. "That sounds like an excellent n."


    Seeing how readily Fang Chen agreed, thest trace of doubt in the woman¡¯s heart vanished. If he had hesitated or refused, she would have questioned the truth of everything he had said. But since he was willing to return to the Qin Family with her, it was highly likely that the information he had about the Three Sr Fruit was genuine.


    Regardless of anything else, her son might finally be saved!

 Chapter 579: Qin Manor

    <h4>Chapter 579: Qin Manor</h4>


    Fang Chen and Madam Qin returned outside. As soon as they arrived, He Baiyan cast a cold, scrutinizing gaze at Fang Chen, clearly displeased with his private conversation with the madam.


    ¡°Daoist Fang will be apanying us back to the Qin Family,¡± Madam Qin said to He Baiyan.


    ¡°Madam, why are we bringing him back?¡± He Baiyan asked in surprise.


    Pei Qingfeng also looked puzzled.


    ¡°Daoist Fang ims to know the whereabouts of another Three Sr Fruit. He will retrieve it for us if we provide him with a hundred mid-grade spirit stones,¡± the beautiful madam exined with a smile. ¡°The little daoist''s calctions were correct. There truly is a chance to save Feng¡¯er here in the Grand Thousand Dao Sect.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s only at the Foundation Building Realm... Does he really know the whereabouts of a saint grade herb such as the Three Sr Fruit?¡± He Baiyan asked incredulously.


    A ck-d cultivator scrutinized Fang Chen quietly. A <i>Foundation Building Realm cultivator? Knows the whereabout of a Three Sr Fruit?</i>


    He appeared pensive, but was not particrly worried.


    ¡°Madam, I think he¡¯s trying to swindle you,¡± He Baiyan whispered in front of Fang Chen and Pei Qingfeng.


    ¡°At this point, I won¡¯t miss any chance, no matter how small,¡± Madam Qin replied, shaking her head. ¡°The decision is made, he wille with us.¡±


    ¡°Martial Uncle, are you really going to the Qin Family?¡± Pei Qingfeng asked, his expression odd.


    Fang Chen nodded with a smile, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll be back soon. There¡¯s a shortage of spirit stones in the sect, and with a hundred mid-grade spirit stones, we should have enough tost us for a while.¡±


    Pei Qingfeng felt a surge of respect in his heart.


    He Baiyan grew more convinced that Fang Chen was a fraud, while the ck-d cultivator¡¯s eyes remained indifferent, with a hint of cold mockery flickering in his gaze.


    Soon, everyone prepared to depart. Fang Chen boarded an immortal boat with Madam Qin and set off into the sky.


    Guan¡¯e and the others quickly approached Pei Qingfeng.


    ¡°Sect Master, why did Martial Uncle Ancestor leave with the Qin Family¡¯s madam?¡± Elder Xu asked, his expression puzzled.


    Pei Qingfeng sighed softly. ¡°He went to earn spirit stones for our sect.¡±


    The three of them exchanged looks, feeling a mix of emotions.


    ***


    Aboard the immortal boat, Fang Chen was assigned to a chamber not far from Madam Qin''s. Over the next few days, his divine soul wandered through the boat, eventually confirming that the only one who had revealed their tails was the ck-d cultivator.


    Although no other suspicious activity was detected, he couldn¡¯t rule out all possibilities.


    After about ten days, the immortal boat slowly approached a city.


    He Baiyan arrived in front of Fang Chen''s door and knocked.


    When Fang Chen opened, He Baiyan said coldly, ¡°We¡¯ve arrived at the Qin Manor. You¡¯d better not deceive thedy, or I will show you what it means to wish for death but to be unable to have it.¡±


    ¡°Excuse me, Daoist He,¡± Fang Chen replied with a smile.


    He Baiyan was slightly taken aback but stepped aside, allowing Fang Chen to pass by him and walk toward Madam Qin.


    Fang Chen then chatted with her as they disembarked from the immortal boat.


    He Baiyan''s expression darkened even further as he silently followed behind.


    As soon as everyone disembarked from the immortal boat, it began shrinking and was recalled back to the madam¡¯s sleeve.


    At the same time, a group of people approached from afar. The leader of this group was another striking woman. Even though she was only at the Golden Core Realm, she was apanied by many ck-d cultivators, including several at the Nascent Soul Realm like He Baiyan. Compared to the madam, this new arrival seemed a bit more delicate and carried a hint of vulnerability.


    She quickly moved forward and came to stand before Madam Qin, her face full of concern.


    ¡°Sister Chu Lan, was there any chance to improve the situation at the Grand Thousand Dao Sect?¡± she asked anxiously.


    ¡°Wu Wan, let me introduce you. This is Daoist Fang from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect. He ims to know the location of a Three Sr Fruit. If I can find this Three Sr Fruit, there might be hope for Feng¡¯er¡¯s situation and it might also calm the anger of the Ancestor.¡±


    Wu Wan looked at Fang Chen with surprise, taking in his appearance closely. She then asked hurriedly, ¡°Do you really know where the Three Sr Fruit is? Where is it exactly? I¡¯ll send someone to retrieve it immediately.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t rush, Wu Wan. I have a transaction with Daoist Fang. He won¡¯t reveal the location of the Three Sr Fruit unless I provide him with a hundred mid-grade spirit stones,¡± Chu Lan said softly. ¡°Since you¡¯re here today, would you be able to lend me fifty mid-grade spirit stones?¡±


    Wu Wan hesitated, showing a hint of difort. ¡°I... recently handed all my spirit stones to Nie¡¯er.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. I¡¯ll ask my husband. I¡¯m sure he¡¯ll provide the hundred mid-grade spirit stones for Feng¡¯er¡¯s sake,¡± replied Chu Lan.


    Wu Wan¡¯s smiled bitterly. ¡°Husband has been furious about this matter recently. It would be difficult to approach him now....¡±


    Chu Lan sighed softly. ¡°What else can I do? Feng¡¯er has indeed made mistakes, but he is my flesh and blood. How can I not try to save him?¡±


    She then continued, ¡°I will take Daoist Fang to get settled first.¡±


    ¡°Go ahead, Sister. I¡¯ll think of a way to help you as well,¡± said Wu Wan as she nodded quickly.


    Once Chu Lan and Fang Chen left, Wu Wan¡¯s previously vulnerable demeanor vanished and she said indifferently, ¡°Can a cultivator from the Grand Qian Dao Sect really know the whereabouts of the Three Sr Fruit?¡±


    The Nascent Soul Realm cultivator beside her pondered for a moment before replying, ¡°The Grand Qian Dao Sect ims to be the orthodox sect of the Three Thousand Dao Sect, so they might indeed have a few tricks up their sleeve.¡±


    Wu Wan shook her head lightly. ¡°I suspect Chu Lan has been deceived. If the Grand Qian Dao Sect really knew the location of the Three Sr Fruit, they would have taken it for themselves long ago, rather than just asking for a hundred mid-grade spirit stones.¡±


    She then smiled slightly. ¡°Let¡¯s go and visit Nie¡¯er. He¡¯s been preupied with this mattertely. Everything is Qin Feng''s fault. He dared to steal the Three Sr Fruits from the ancestor to please that woman from the Langya n, causing a disastrous cmity."


    Fang Chen contemted as he watched Wu Wan and the others leave. From their brief conversation, it was unclear whether this woman was also involved with the Spirit Blood Sect. However, she clearly did not harbor the same friendliness she disyed outwardly. She seemed to have concealed her hostility towards Chu Lan and her son.


    On the other side, He Baiyan saw Fang Chen standing with his eyes closed and felt increasingly displeased that a mere Foundation Building Realm cultivator dared to y tricks. He couldn''t help but remind Chu Lan a few times.


    Chu Lan, however, remained patient and did not respond to the remarks. When Fang Chen opened his eyes, she said, "Daoist Fang, you can stay at my ce. I will gather one hundred mid-grade spirit stones today, and I hope you will retrieve the Three Sr Fruit within the agreed timeframe."


    "No problem," Fang Chen replied with a smile and a nod.


    The group arrived at Chu Lan¡¯s residence. It was arge courtyard with several pavilions. There was a flowing spiritual spring in the center of the courtyard, so the spiritual energy in the surroundings was very rich. If the spiritual spring were to be ced outside, it could establish a sect on its own, but here it seemed to be just a decorative feature.


    ¡°Madam, you¡¯ve returned. Any good news from the visit to the Grand Thousand Dao Sect?¡±


    A young dao cultivator approached slowly with a confident smile until he saw Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen noticed the young dao cultivator as well, and both of them discreetly pretended not to recognize each other.

 Chapter 580: Daoist Li, Apologies

    <h4>Chapter 580: Daoist Li, Apologies</h4>


    Chu Lan smiled slightly as she introduced the young Dao cultivator to Fang Chen. "Daoist Fang, this is Daoist Li. His cultivation is on par with yours, but he is well-versed in Divination Technique. He was the one who deduced that the Grand Thousand Dao Sect might hold an opportunity for a breakthrough, which is why I brought people there."


    "Daoist Li, nice to meet you," Fang Chen said, cupping his hands courteously.


    Daoist Li bowed in return. "Daoist Fang, nice to meet you too."


    He Baiyan coldly watched the two of them and judged them as mere Foundation Building Realm cultivators trying to take advantage of the situation andbeling them as deceivers.


    Chu Lan instructed He Baiyan to arrange amodations for Fang Chen and then hurried to a certain pavilion.


    He Baiyan casually called over a maid, gave her some instructions, and coldly nced at Fang Chen and Daoist Li before leaving.


    The maid pointed out a pavilion to Fang Chen and spoke respectfully. "Young Master Fang, Sir He mentioned that you will be staying in that pavilion for the next few days. Coincidentally, Daoist Li will also be staying there, but on a different floor."


    Fang Chen nodded slightly. After the maid left, he smiled faintly and said, "Daoist Li is proficient in the Art of Change? Such an inheritance is quite rare, even in the Azure Dao Manor."


    <i>[Why are you here?]</i>


    Daoist Li modestly smiled and replied, "It''s just a family inheritance. I only have a superficial understanding."


    <i>[Lord Fang, you really managed to survive. It looks like my Divination of the Stars is indeed powerful.]</i>


    "Daoist Li, you tter yourself. If not for your help, Madam Chu would not havee to the Grand Thousand Dao Sect and would not have met me," Fang Chen said with a lightugh.


    <i>[Were you really the one who sent Chu Lan to the Grand Thousand Dao Sect? Do you know that the Immortal Qin n is about to go to war with the Langya n?]</i>


    Daoist Li scrutinized Fang Chen for a moment before nodding. "It seems my predictions were indeed correct regarding Daoist Fang. What means do you have to assist Madam Chu and Young Master Qin Feng?"


    <i>[I predicted that if Chu Lan went to the Grand Thousand Dao Sect, it might help Young Master Qin Feng. I didn¡¯t expect she would meet you there. As for the impending battle between the Immortal Qin n and the Langya n, it seems difficult to avoid. Do you have any solutions, Daoist Fang?]</i>


    Fang Chen smiled lightly. "I know the whereabouts of the Three Sr Fruit. As long as I can find one for Madam Chu, Young Master Qin Feng''s situation can be resolved."


    <i>[The Spirit Blood Sect is behind all of this. Have you met Qin Nie? He is a cultivator from the Spirit Blood Sect.]</i>


    Daoist Li¡¯s face revealed a trace of shock as he went silent for a while.


    In the shadows, He Baiyan, hearing the uninformative conversation, snorted coldly and turned to leave.


    Fang Chen¡¯s expression shifted, and he walked toward the pavilion.


    Daoist Li silently followed.


    Once inside, Fang Chen set up a prohibitive formation and used his divine soul to check the surroundings, ensuring that He Baiyan wasn¡¯t watching from the shadows. Only then did he turn to Daoist Li and smile. "Daoist Li, it¡¯s truly a pleasure to see you here."


    "Indeed, I never expected to meet you here," said Daoist Li with a face full of amazement.


    Li Daoyi''s face turned grim as he asked in a low voice, "Is it true that Qin Nie is a cultivator of the Spirit Blood Sect?"


    Fang Chen nodded slightly and recounted what he knew about the situation.


    After hearing Fang Chen''s exnation, Li Daoyi couldn''t help but take a deep breath. He muttered, "This guy is really good at pretending. Even I was deceived by him. I didn¡¯t expect his goal was to incite a war between the Immortal Qin n and the Langya n."


    He then looked at Fang Chen with hopeful eyes. "Lord, you have a way to resolve this, don¡¯t you? I¡¯ve just started my position as an attendant in the Qin Manor. I¡¯d prefer not to continue being tossed around."


    "As long as we can retrieve a Three Sr Fruit, we can disrupt Qin Nie''s ns." Fang Chen paused. He looked at Li Daoyi curiously. "But you haven¡¯t exined why you¡¯re here. This ce is quite far from the me Empire."


    Daoist Li sighed. "It¡¯s a long story. After what happened in Grand Qian, I wanted to venture out and explore. With my skill in the Divination of the Stars, even if I couldn''t make a fortune, I wouldn¡¯t starve.


    "But on the way, I encountered a demoness who captured me and took me to the Central Continent Empire. A few years ago, I finally managed to escape her clutches. Through some calctions, I found this ce to be favorable for me, so I came here."


    He continued with a tone of relief, "And it turns out it was indeed a good move. Since arriving in the Azure Dao Manor, not only has the demoness not pursued me, but I also came across a benefactor in the Qin Manor. Now, I¡¯m an attendant to Madam Chu Lan."


    Then he turned the question back to Fang Chen, "Lord, how did you end up in the Grand Thousand Dao Sect? I¡¯ve heard that the background of Grand Thousand Dao Sect is quite good."


    Li Daoye suddenly had a realization, ¡°I see now. Lord, your master must be a senior from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect, right?¡±


    ¡°Something like that.¡± Fang Chen nodded. ¡°Your Divination of the Stars is quite impressive. Could you perhaps predict the whereabouts of Fairy Yu and Xia Ji?¡±


    ¡°To be honest, I did try to find their locations out of boredom recently,¡± Daoist Li admitted. ¡°I couldn¡¯t pinpoint Fairy Yu, but I did locate Xia Ji in the Central Continent, specifically in the extreme northern region. Once I advance to the Golden Core Realm, I might be able to determine his exact location.¡±


    Since Fairy Yu had consumed the Vast Origin Fruit, it was understandable that Li Daoye couldn¡¯t track her. Fang Chen was just trying his luck asking.


    Fang Chen nodded thoughtfully. ¡°Xia Ji is in the extreme northern region....¡±


    <i>Once I¡¯ve sorted out my current tasks, I¡¯ll go search for Xia Ji.</i>


    With that in mind, Fang Chen at Li Daoye apprisingly and smiled. ¡°It must have been quite a challenge to reach the early stage of Foundation Building Realm..¡±


    Daoist Li nodded. ¡°Indeed, it took considerable effort. If not for the Stars of Divination, I wouldn¡¯t have advanced to Foundation Building Realm so soon.¡±


    Turning a little anxious, he asked, ¡°Lord, how confident are you about dealing with the Spirit Blood Sect?¡±


    ¡°Whether or not Madam Chu can retrieve the Three Sr Fruit will determine if the conflict between the Immortal Qin n and Langya n is avoidable. How many times have you seen Qin Nie? Which direction does he reside in the Qin Manor?¡±


    Li Daoye pondered for a moment before giving Fang Chen a general direction.


    Fang Chen then closed his eyes, seemingly in deep thought. Li Daoye assumed that he was contemting something and did not disturb him.


    At that moment, Fang Chen¡¯s divine soul was traversing within the Qin Manor.


    The Qin Family, renowned as the most powerful cultivation family in the Immortal Qin n, had a significant number of Golden Core Realm and Nascent Soul Realm cultivators, though there were fewer at the Enlightenment Realm, Soul Splitting Realm and Fusion Realm.


    Finally, Fang Chen arrived at an individual courtyard that was several times richer in spiritual energy than Chu Lan¡¯s one.


    In the courtyard, a young man in white was seated beside a spiritual spring, gazing into it thoughtfully. Behind him stood a cultivator d in ck, who was actually one of Chu Lan¡¯s attendants.


    That cultivator spoke in a low voice, detailing Chu Lan¡¯s recent activities, including mentions of Fang Chen.


    ¡°Lord Qin Nie, should I take action to eliminate this person?¡± the ck-d cultivator asked, his eyes shing with a hint of murderous intent.

 Chapter 581: This World Needs More Than Just a Sword

    <h4>Chapter 581: This World Needs More Than Just a Sword</h4>


    "Stop with the constant talk of killing. In this world, a sword alone isn¡¯t enough. If it were, why would the matter be entrusted to me instead of you?" the young man in white said with a lightugh.


    The ck-d cultivator¡¯s expression darkened instantly. After a moment of silence, he said quietly, "What are your thoughts, Young Master Qin? If he really manages to find a Three Sr Fruit, it¡¯s likely that the arrangements you made earlier will be for naught."


    "Let me ask you this. Has Chu Lan concealed anything from you regarding this matter?" the young man in white asked thoughtfully.


    The ck-d cultivator pondered for a moment and then shook his head gently. "She hasn¡¯t concealed anything."


    "Then that¡¯s settled. The Three Sr Fruit is very important. She should have kept it a secret and only revealed it once it was found," the young man in white said with a faint smile. "Why do you think she didn¡¯t even hide it from you? Doesn¡¯t she fear that the information might leak and causeplications? It¡¯s not only our Qin n¡¯s ancestors who need the Three Sr Fruit. Who in the world doesn¡¯t?"


    The ck-d cultivator seemed to have caught a clue at what his young master was hinting at, but he wasn''t certain. "So, what does the young master mean...?"


    "After today, it¡¯s likely that everyone in the Qin Manor will know that the First Lady has a lead on the Three Sr Fruit. As a result, Qin Feng¡¯s punishment may be postponed," the young man in white said with a smile. "It¡¯s quitemendable of the First Lady to go through such lengths for Qin Feng."


    The ck-d cultivator¡¯s expression was one of surprise. "So, you mean... this is all just an act by the First Lady to dy Qin Feng¡¯s punishment?"


    "I¡¯ve been to the Grand Thousand Dao Sect. There¡¯s nothing left there; how could one possibly find the whereabouts of the Three Sr Fruit? It just doesn¡¯t make sense.


    "The First Lady probably used the name of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect to make this matter seem more credible. As for the Foundation Building Realm cultivator she brought back, there¡¯s no need to worry. Just keep an eye on him for now. In half a month, the battle between the Immortal Qin n and Lang Ya n will begin, and no one can stop it."


    A profound look appeared in the young man''s eyes.


    "No wonder you¡¯re the young master. Only you coulde up with such a scheme, effortlessly making the two major factions dance in the palm of your hand," the ck-d cultivator said, his eyes showing a hint of jealousy.


    Though, the cultivator in ck''s tone was quite ttering.


    "You can leave now. If there¡¯s nothing else, you don¡¯t need toe see me again," Qin Nie said, waving his hand.


    "Understood, young master."


    The ck-d cultivator cupped his fist and turned to leave.


    Seeing that Qin Nie was convinced that Chu Lan was merely staging an act, Fang Chen decided to leave. Since Qin Nie was only at the grandpletion stage of the Foundation Building Realm, Fang Chen could kill him whenever he wished. However, he intended to use Qin Nie to draw out more of the Spirit Blood Sect¡¯s minions, as killing just one wouldn¡¯t be enough to satisfy his vengeance.


    Just as Fang Chen¡¯s soul returned to his body, he heard a maid¡¯s voice outside the door.


    "Young Master Fang, are you there? The First Lady requests your presence."


    "Brother Li, remember, we¡¯re only meeting for the first time today. Don¡¯t let anything slip," said Fang Chen.


    He patted Li Daoye¡¯s shoulder and then stepped out of the room.


    He followed the maid to Chu Lan''s residence.


    Chu Lan, maintaining herposure, signaled for the maid to leave, and then looked at Fang Chen with a serious expression.


    "I¡¯ve done everything you asked of me. Will they really believe that I''m just putting on a show for Feng''er by bringing you in?"


    "Under normal circumstances, they should believe it. Even if they don¡¯t, they won¡¯t take me seriously," Fang Chen replied with a faint smile.


    Chu Lan was silent for a moment before suddenly asking, "Why do it this way? You could havee here secretly without revealing yourself, and Qin Nie wouldn¡¯t have known you were here. If you guessed wrong, the Spirit Blood Sect would definitelye after you, which would be quite dangerous."


    After a pause, Chu Lan¡¯s eyes shed with a hint of surprise. "Are you using yourself as bait to lure out more Spirit Blood Sect members? What exactly is your grudge with the Spirit Blood Sect?"


    She was somewhat shocked. Any cultivator who encounters the Spirit Blood Sect would avoid them, yet the man in front of her seemed to be actively seeking them out.


    "My grudge with the Spirit Blood Sect isplicated. It¡¯s best if you don¡¯t inquire further. Just know that in this matter, you and I have the same goals and interests," Fang Chen said softly.


    Chu Lan nodded slightly and ceased her inquiries. She was about to instruct the maid to see Fang Chen out when she heard the maid outside exim in surprise, "Young Master Qin Nie!"


    Chu Lan''s expression shifted slightly. "Qin Nie has arrived."


    She looked at Fang Chen, who remained unperturbed and calm. This subtly increased her confidence in the situation.


    Momentster, Qin Nie, led by the maid, walked in. With a faint smile on his face, he bowed respectfully to Chu Lan. "Greetings, First Lady."


    "Nie''er, there¡¯s no need for such formality," Chu Lan said, showing a tired expression.


    Qin Nie smiled. "I heard that you went to the Great Thousand Dao Gate and encountered a cultivator who imed to know the whereabouts of the Three Sr Fruit, one who asks for a hundred mid-grade spirit stones."


    ncing at Fang Chen, Qin Nie took out exactly one hundred mid-grade spirit stones from his storage ring and handed them to Chu Lan.


    "Feng¡¯er has caused quite amotion this time. Even I cannot speak well for him in front of the ancestors. If there¡¯s any chance to rectify Feng¡¯er¡¯s mistake, a hundred mid-grade spirit stones is a small price to pay. Please ept them."


    Chu Lan seemed hesitant to ept them. "This... If your mother knew, she might me me."


    "My mother is a reasonable person. She wouldn¡¯t me you for this," Qin Nie replied amiably.


    "Many thanks!" Chu Lan thanked.


    She took the spirit stones and handed them to Fang Chen. "Fellow Daoist Fang, can you now reveal the whereabouts of the Three Sr Fruit?"


    Fang Chen took the mid-grade spirit stones and stored them in his storage ring. He then sped his hands and smiled. "First Lady, this isn¡¯t the right time yet. Please allow me some more time."


    Chu Lan frowned slightly. "How long will it take?"


    "At the earliest, three to five days; at thetest, seven to eight days. Please rest assured, I will handle this matter thoroughly," Fang Chen said.


    Seeing this, Qin Nie''s eyes flickered with a faint smile. He sped his hands and said, "I will take my leave for now."


    Chu Lan nodded slightly and called for the maid to see Qin Nie off.


    After Qin Nie left, the two of them fell into silence for a while. Chu Lan sighed softly and said, "He was indeed testing both of us just now."


    Only at this moment did she truly believe that Qin Nie was involved in the matter.


    "First Lady, I¡¯ll be back shortly," Fang Chen said with a smile as he headed toward the door.


    Chu Lan instinctively reached out to stop him but hesitated, realizing that he had no reason to be a fraud. In the end, she let him leave.


    About half an hourter, Fang Chen returned to Chu Lan''s residence.


    "Fellow Daoist Fang, can you tell me now? Where exactly is the Three Sr Fruit you know of?" Chu Lan asked, her eyes fixed on Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen had a peculiar expression. After thinking for a moment, he said, "The Three Sr Fruit is actually in the Qin Manor."


    The Qin Manor?


    Chu Lan''s eyes shed with anger. "There was only one Three Sr Fruit at the Qin Manor, and Feng''er has already been given it to Langya Yu. You...."


    Her words were abruptly cut off as she looked at Fang Chen in disbelief. "Are you saying... that the Three Sr Fruit hasn''t yet reached Langya Yu? This is impossible. The Langya n has already acknowledged this, and Langya Yu did indeed recently undergo the first tribtion of the Golden Core Realm."


    "That¡¯s the fact. The Three Sr Fruit is not only at the Qin Manor, but it is also with Qin Nie," Fang Chen exined. "Langya Yu might not be as clean as one would hope. Have you inquired thoroughly with Young Master Qin Feng? Did he see Langya Yu actually consume the Three Sr Fruit?"

 Chapter 582: Qin Feng, Are You Worthy?

    <h4>Chapter 582: Qin Feng, Are You Worthy?</h4>


    Chu Lan had never imagined that there could be so many entanglements behind her son Qin Feng''s trouble. She remained silent for a moment and then gently shook her head. "Since that incident, Feng''er has not spoken a word to me. No matter who sees him, he remains silent. Even when the ancestor personally questioned him, he remained mute, like a living corpse."


    She nced at Fang Chen. "If you say that the Three Sr Fruit is with Qin Nie, I will have someone retrieve it from him. This matter can then be settled."


    "First Lady, it might be better if you leave this matter to me. When the time is right, I will retrieve the Three Sr Fruit," Fang Chen suggested.


    "Leave it to you? You are merely at the Foundation Building Realm, and Qin Nie''s cultivation is far superior to yours. How could you possibly retrieve the Three Sr Fruit from him?" Chu Lan shook her head. "I will have He Baiyan handle this matter."


    Fang Chen noticed that Chu Lan was now only focused on helping Qin Feng escape the Immortal Qin n''s punishment. She hadn''t considered whether her actions might alert others or the implications for the Spirit Blood Sect. She didn''t even seem to care about the Spirit Blood Sect.


    "I understand, First Lady, that you don''t want to be enemies with the Spirit Blood Sect. However, because of this matter, you have already be entangled with them. Whether you want it or not, the Spirit Blood Sect will not let you and Qin Feng go.


    ¡°If you end up alerting them, I can simply walk away. As for how the Immortal Qin n and the Langya n fare, it has nothing to do with me.


    "But Young Master Qin Feng may not be able to escape unscathed. If the Spirit Blood Sect bes enraged, you and Young Master Qin Feng will have to constantly guard against their hidden attacks in the future."


    Fang Chen paused.


    "If I handle this matter, even if the Spirit Blood Sect eventually finds out, they will only hold it against me, not against you and Young Master Qin Feng."


    Chu Lan looked conflicted. She remained silent for a full fifteen minutes before slowly speaking.


    "On the fifteenth day, the ancestor will hold a family council, during which he will publicly deal with Feng''er. You must act before then."


    Fang Chen nodded gently. "Rest assured, First Lady."


    "I will see you out."


    Chu Lan said no more. She silently escorted Fang Chen out of her residence. However, at the door, they encountered a young man with blood-red eyes.


    The young man seemed to have not closed his eyes for a long time, with bloodshot eyes staring intensely at Fang Chen, his gaze as if it could devour him!


    "Feng''er?!"


    Chu Lan was somewhat surprised. Her son had been hiding in his room for days; this was the first time he had emerged!


    "Mother...."


    Qin Feng''s voice was somewhat hoarse. Upon hearing him call her, Chu Lan''s eyes turned red, trying to control her inner excitement. She whispered, "Feng''er, don''t be afraid. Mother hase up with a way to spare you from punishment."


    "Mother, I was wrong in this matter. If I was wrong, I should be punished. Don''t worry about me anymore," said Qing Feng, his voice low and solemn.


    After speaking, he turned to Fang Chen with a gaze full of murderous intent. "Leave the Qin residence immediately, and I will not pursue the matter of you using my mother. Otherwise, even if I am a prisoner, I will make sure you are torn to pieces!"


    Chu Lan spoke softly. ¡°Feng''er, things are not as you imagine. Rest assured, I am confident in dealing with this. After all, I am a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator; how could I be deceived by a Foundation Building Realm cultivator?¡±


    Fang Chen, with his gray-white eyes, looked at Qin Feng and asked, ¡°Does Young Master Qin Feng really care about the First Lady?¡±


    Qing Feng''s bloodshot eyes widened slightly, his aura fluctuating. ¡°What does my matter have to do with you?¡±


    ¡°She is still unwilling to give up hope. Why do you behave as if the whole world owes you something and you have suffered a great injustice? Let me ask you this, Young Master Qin Feng: are you worthy of such treatment?¡±


    After Fang Chen finished speaking, he walked away, leaving Qin Feng standing there in a daze.


    Chu Lan, filled with worry, stepped forward and took Qin Feng¡¯s hand. ¡°Feng¡¯er, don¡¯t worry. I will definitely help you!¡±


    ¡°Mother... what he said seems to be right....¡± Qin Feng''s tears flowed continuously. ¡°I was so foolish. I made you suffer....¡±


    ¡°Stop crying," she consoled him.


    After a while, Qin Feng began to calm down again, his mental state returning to normal.


    Seeing that Qin Feng had calmed down a little, Chu Lun took the opportunity to ask him, "Did you see with your own eyes when Langya Yu swallowed the Three Sr Fruit?¡±


    ¡°Yu¡¯er said that the Three Sr Fruit must be swallowed in a safe ce. I did not see her eat it with my own eyes, but Yu¡¯er did survive the first tribtion of the Golden Core Realm. We cannot retrieve the Three Sr Fruit anymore,¡± Qin Feng answered in a low voice.


    <i>He didn¡¯t see it!</i>


    Chu Lan¡¯s mind whirled. She quickly probed further, ¡°At that time, you did not answer when people asked you questions. I still don¡¯t understand how you knew Langya Yu was in trouble with the tribtion, considering that you and she were in different ces.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    Qin Feng fell silent again, not speaking. It was only when he saw the tears in Chu Lan¡¯s eyes that he finally couldn¡¯t hold back and said in a low voice, ¡°It was Young Master Qin Nie who said so.... He happened to learn that Little Yu was trapped by the tribtion, but the Langya n did not take any action...¡±


    As he spoke, Qin Feng quickly looked at Chu Lan and said, ¡°Mother, this matter has nothing to do with Young Master Qin Nie. I was unwilling to mention it because I didn¡¯t want to implicate him.¡±


    Chu Lan smiled faintly, gently patting Qin Feng¡¯s head. ¡°Hmm, indeed it has nothing to do with Qin Nie. Now that the matter hase to this, there is no need to involve him further.¡±


    Although her son was somewhat foolish, his heart was still kind, and that was enough.


    However, Chu Lan¡¯s expression darkened, and a trace of killing intent flickered in her eyes. She would handle the dirty work herself.


    In the following days, news of a cultivator from the Great Thousand Dao Sect iming to know the whereabouts of the Three Sr Fruit spread throughout the Qin Manor. However, another rumor began to emerge, suggesting that this was all a scheme orchestrated by Chu Lan herself to dy Qin Feng¡¯s punishment.


    Yet another rumor circted, iming that Chu Lan, due to her excessive concern for Qin Feng, had been deceived, and now her residence housed two frauds, one surnamed Fang and the other surnamed Li.


    Two streets away from the Qin Manor was the Immortal Origin District where Fang Chen and Li Daoye were leisurely browsing and chatting.


    Behind them, someone with a tail was secretly watching Fang Chen.


    <i>Qin Nie was right; he is indeed a fraud. I wonder if Chu Lan is aware of this,</i> the stalker thought with cold disdain.


    For the past few days, Fang Chen hadn¡¯t done much; he had simply been eating and drinking at the Qin Mansion and asionally going out for a leisurely stroll, appearing quite carefree.


    Before long, Fang Chen and Li Daoye entered a bustling shop filled with people engaged in stone cutting. Among them were Qin Nie and a handsome young nobleman who stood beside him. Many of the Immortal Qin n members were gathered around.


    ¡°Brother Qifa, the quality of this stone is superb. Go on, have no fear, cut it; if you lose, it¡¯s on me,¡± Qin Nie said with a faint smile to the nobleman.


    ¡°Qin Nie, since you say so, I won¡¯t hold back,¡± Qifa responded with a greedy smile.


    ¡°Young Master Fang, is that the son of the Azure Dao Manor Lord?¡± Li Daoye asked with raised brows.


    Fang Chen nodded lightly.


    As expected, Qin Nie had likely used this person to connect with the Azure Dao Manor. Now that the Immortal Qin n and Langya n were preparing for battle, and with Qifa¡¯s arrival, it was clear his intentions were not ordinary.


    Fang Chen wanted to see if that person had any connections with the Spirit Blood Sect.

 Chapter 583: Climbing Out of Here

    Some sharp-eyed individuals immediately reported Fang Chen and Li Daoye''s arrival to Qin Nie.


    Qin Nie¡¯s face revealed a subtle smile. He nced at Fang Chen and Li Daoye before softly speaking to another young man in a dark blue robe, whose expression was cold and stern. ¡°Have you heard about the two Daoists who havee to our residence, one of whom is from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect and is said to hold a high rank within the sect?¡±


    The young man in the dark blue robe didn''t have a chance to respond. Qi Fa, slowly chipping away at the Immortal Origin Stone in his palm to reveal the treasure inside, chuckled and said, ¡°Grand Thousand Dao Sect? Isn¡¯t that the minor sect that ims to have inherited the orthodox teachings of the Three Thousand Dao Sects? Do such minor sect practitioners really have the qualifications to step into your Immortal Qin Manor?¡±


    A Qin n member who was on good terms with Qin Nie answered Qi Fa¡¯s question.


    Upon learning that the other party imed to know the whereabouts of the Three Sr Fruit, Qi Fa couldn¡¯t help butugh. ¡°In the Azure Dao Manor, only your Immortal Qin n''s ancestor has found a Three Sr Tree. Even my father doesn¡¯t have ess to the Three Sr Fruit. How could a mere Grand Thousand Dao Sect practitioner know its whereabouts?¡±


    ¡°Qin Nie, where is the Grand Thousand Dao Sect practitioner right now? I would like to meet him,¡± the young man in the dark blue robe said with a faint, cold smile.


    Qi Fa smirked, his eyes pinned on the Stone he was working on revealing. ¡°Hua Qianchi, why do you want to meet the Grand Thousand Dao Sect practitioner? Are you nning to beat him up? I heard from my father that your sects were actually inherited from the Three Thousand Dao Sects in the past, including Qin Nie¡¯s family."


    Hua Qianchi calmly said, ¡°Master Qi, these are just rumors. Whether the Three Thousand Dao Sect ever truly existed is questionable, and with countless sects in the world, how could they all originate from the same lineage?


    "The Great Thousand Dao Sect spreading such rumors is despicable. However, our elders are toozy toe all the way here. Now that a disciple of the Great Thousand Dao Sect dares to show up, I¡¯ll deal with him ordingly.¡±¡°Don¡¯t go too far. Mydy is counting on him to help Qin Feng reduce his sentence.¡± Qin Nie smiled and looked toward Fang Chen. ¡°Speak of the devil.¡±


    Hua Qianchi and Qi Fa both turned to look at Fang Chen.


    Qi Fa saw that Fang Chen was merely a Foundation Building Realm cultivator and didn¡¯t take him seriously, focusing instead on handling the Immortal Origin Stone in his hands.


    However, Hua Qianchi¡¯s gaze was like a sharp de, cutting through the crowd andnding squarely on Fang Chen.


    ¡°<em>Lord Fang, trouble has arrived</em>,¡± Li Daoye transmitted calmly.


    Fang Chen smiled. ¡°<em>This is a good thing."</em>


    The more the trouble, the more he would be able to uncover regarding the other party.


    Now, he was in the dark, and Qin Nie was in the light. Unlike the previous scheming in Grand Qian, where he had to rely on the three Nascent Soul cultivators to buy time, Qin Nie was only at the Foundation Building Realm.


    Fang Chen hadplete control over the board.


    Hua Qianchi slowly made his way through the crowd toward Fang Chen. Before he could reach them, another group of people had already approached Fang Chen. ¡°Are you the Foundation Building Realm cultivator from the Great Thousand Dao Sect?¡±


    The group wasposed of both men and women.


    The one in the lead was a woman, and she stared at Fang Chen with barely concealed anger.


    Hua Qianchi stopped and watched quietly as the situation unfolded.


    ¡°Lord Fang, this is the second daughter of Lady Chu, Qin Xuan. She has a rather difficult temperament and can be quite troublesome. When I first served under Lady Chu, this youngdy frequently mocked and ridiculed me. She truly has the airs of a bitch!¡± Li Daoye said with a peculiar expression, transmitting the message to Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen frowned slightly. The appearance of this group was not something he had anticipated. He had originally nned to create an opportunity to make contact with Qin Nie.


    Fang Chen nodded lightly. ¡°Yes, youngdy. Do you have any advice?¡±


    Qin Xuan''s eyes were cold. ¡°Advice? I don¡¯t dare to ask for that. You and the person named Li seem to think of our Immortal Qin Manor as a ce to take advantage of. I heard that you took a hundred medium-grade spirit stones from my mother, iming you would reveal the whereabouts of the Three Sr Fruit.


    Yet, there has been no news for a long time! If you don¡¯t give me an exnation today, you¡¯ll have to return the spirit stones and crawl out of here."


    Qin Nie and the others watching this scene couldn¡¯t help but show faint, amused smiles.


    Fang Chen shook his head lightly. ¡°If it¡¯s about this matter, you should ask Lady Chu. I am not in a position to exin."


    Qin Xuan was unable to contain her anger. ¡°I have already asked my mother, but she won¡¯t say anything. She was deceived by you, and now you want to use that as an excuse to shirk from responsibility? If it weren¡¯t for my elder brother, my mother¡ªa Nascent Soul Realm cultivator¡ªwould never have been fooled by you! You¡¯ve be a joke in the Immortal Qin Manor!¡±


    If they were not in the Immortal Origin District, she would have likely taken action to deal with this supposed swindler.


    Qin Xuan''s entourage chimed in, ¡°If you have any sense, you should leave the Immortal Qin Manor immediately. We don¡¯t keep swindlers and useless people like you."


    Themotion finally attracted the attention of nearby cultivators, who began pointing and whispering about Fang Chen and Li Daoye. Li Daoye, seeing the continuous insults and the presence of Spirit Blood Sect cultivators, felt his anger rising but knew better than to act out in this situation.


    ¡°Brother Li, let¡¯s go,¡± Fang Chen said calmly, showing no sign of anger as he prepared to leave with Li Daoye.


    Qin Xuan attempted to block their way, but before she could, someone spoke up. ¡°Friends from the Great Thousand Dao Sect, please wait.¡±


    Qin Xuan and her entourage were momentarily stunned, their gazes shifting to Hua Qianchi with a hint of surprise.


    ¡°Senior Brother Hua from the Nine Yang Dao Sect?¡±


    ¡°Since he¡¯s here, does that mean Qin Nie is also¡­¡±


    They indeed saw Qin Nie and his entourage, their expressions turning curious. Despite Qin Nie''s rtively humble beginnings, his mother had been a mere maid by Lady Chu¡¯s side. Yet, Qin Nie was now positioning himself to potentially rece Qin Feng and be a key figure in the Immortal Qin n.


    He also had an impressivework, being acquainted with Qi Fa, the son of the Prefect of the Azure Dao Manor, and Hua Qianchi, the top young cultivator of the Nine Yang Dao Sect.


    Fang Chen turned to Hua Qianchi, revealing his gray-white eyes. ¡°Who might you be?¡±


    The people watching were surprised. ¡°Is this person blind?¡±


    Hua Qianchi¡¯s gaze fell upon Fang Chen¡¯s gray-white eyes, and a hint of disdain flickered in his eyes. ¡°I am Hua Qianchi from the Nine Yang Dao Sect. I am pleased to meet a friend from the Great Thousand Dao Sect.¡±


    ¡°Fang Chen from the Great Thousand Dao Sect. May I ask what advice you have for me, Fellow Daoist Hua?¡± Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    ¡°Nothing much. As long as you return the medium-grade spirit stones you cheated andply with Young Lady Qin Xuan¡¯s request to leave, I can let what you did slide. I hope you will maintain your integrity and not tarnish the reputation of my sect,¡± Hua Qianchi said cidly.


    Qin Xuan and her entourage looked relieved, with Qin Xuan quickly bowing to Hua Qianchi. ¡°Thank you, Senior Brother Hua, for speaking out on our behalf.¡±


    ¡°No need for thanks. Since you are all family of Qin Nie, we are practically kin,¡± Hua Qianchi replied with a gentle smile.

 Chapter 584: I Will Not Lose

    ¡°Cheat?¡± Fang Chen smiled. ¡°Friend Hua, what do you mean by that? The transaction between Lady Chu Lan and me was conducted openly and honestly. Since Lady Chu Lan hasn¡¯t said anything, on what grounds are you using me of being a fraud?¡±


    ¡°My mother is simply concerned and confused! You are taking advantage of her moment of befuddlement!¡± Qin Xuan fumed.


    Fang Chen looked at Qin Xuan. ¡°Miss, one should not make assumptions. Before using people, please provide evidence to back up your ims. If you going to say I am deceiving Lady Chu Lan, without evidence, you are merely ndering me.¡±


    Evidence? They didn¡¯t have any, but they were certain that the two in front of them were indeed frauds!


    Qin Xuan was rendered speechless by Fang Chen¡¯s words, while Hua Qianchi lightly apuded.


    ¡°It seems the Great Thousand Dao Sect is not practicing cultivation, but rather mastering the art of rhetoric,¡± Hua Qianchi remarked with a hint of amusement.


    At the same time, a figure stood with their hands sped behind their back, quietly observing the scene from a short distance away. The figure was He Baiyan. When he saw Fang Chen and Li Daoye being troubled by Qin Xuan, he made no move to intervene, even though Chu Lan had instructed him to keep an eye on the two and ensure they didn¡¯t encounter any mishaps.


    ¡°Apparently, the Nine Yang Dao Sect is not only deficient in their cultivation but also in their manners. No wonder their words are so aggressive,¡± Fang Chen mused aloud.


    The crowd looked at each other with peculiar expressions.¡°A cultivator from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect dares to mock the Nine Yang Dao Sect¡¯s Hua Qianchi?¡±


    ¡°I heard that the Grand Thousand Dao Sect has only one Golden Core Realm cultivator and its inheritance is in decline. If the Nine Yang Dao Sect gets angry, they could easily destroy the Grand Thousand Dao Sect with just a casual deployment of an Immortal.¡±


    "He''s still too young. It seems he might bring disaster upon the Grand Thousand Dao Sect¡­."


    "Disaster? Not necessarily. Although these sects publicly deny it, the Grand Thousand Dao Sect might indeed be the legitimate sessor of the Three Thousand Dao Sect. Some old ancestors from these sects might not want to see the Grand Thousand Dao Sect''s inheritancee to an end."


    Hearing the murmurs of the crowd, Hua Qianchi''s gaze grew colder. He snorted, ¡°Would you dare to spar with me? Your Grand Thousand Dao Sect prides itself on its orthodox lineage, and I would like to see what is so special about that.¡±


    "Here? I don''t think it''s appropriate," Fang Chen replied with a smile, shaking his head. "I''m a guest at the Immortal Qin n. Fighting on the host''s territory would be disrespectful."


    "You¡¯re clearly afraid," Qin Xuan said coldly.


    "Whether I¡¯m afraid or not makes no difference," replied Fang Chen.


    He turned to Li Daoye. "Fellow Cultivator Li, let¡¯s have our stroll elsewhere."


    Li Daoye nodded. "Alright."


    Looking at Fang Chen leaving and not taking the bait, Hua Qianchi¡¯s eyes shed with coldness. He was contemting how to formally take action and teach the other party a lesson. ?


    Having fished out something good from his Immortal Origin Stone and earned a bit, Qi Fa felt rather good about himself. He smiled and said, "Have you forgotten where you are? This is the Immortal Origin District. Instead of quarreling here, why not have a bet on them? It would be more enjoyable to set some stakes."


    "Bet on the Immortal Origin Stone?"


    Li Daoye was slightly taken aback. Wasn''t this akin to seeking death? He had heard that Fang Chen had been quite sessful when opening Immortal Origin Stones in the past. Word spread around that he was even an Immortal Origin Stone Master.


    "Young Master Qi Fa makes a point. Since this is the Immortal Origin District, rather than arguing, it would be better to ce a bet," Qin N¨¬e said with a smile.


    He then turned to Fang Chen. "Since Friend Fang is here at the Immortal Origin District, you must have some understanding of the Immortal Origin Stone. What do you think of Young Master Qi Fa''s suggestion?"


    Fang Chen¡¯s expression turned thoughtful.


    Looking at his pensive state, people assumed he was hesitating.


    Hua Qianchi said indifferently, "Yes, let''s have a bet. If you lose, you''ll have to hand over the spirit stones you cheated to us, crawl out of here, and admit that the Grand Thousand Dao Sect is inferior to the Nine Yang Dao Sect."


    Qin Xuan and the others fell silent, their eyes flickering.


    In the distance, He Baiyan''s lips curled up slightly, his eyes showing a trace of glee.


    "You say the Grand Thousand Dao Sect is inferior to the Nine Yang Dao Sect?" Fang Chen''s eyes shifted, and his grayish-white pupils slowly turned toward Hua Qianchi. "Do you know what kind of consequences such words carry?"


    Hua Qianchi smiled faintly. "Consequences? What consequences could there be? Just say whether you dare to bet."


    Fang Chen smiled. "And if you lose?"


    "I will not lose," Hua Qianchi said proudly.


    Fang Chen shook his head. "It seems the Nine Yang Dao Sect does not only neglect training their heart and mouth but their brains as well."


    Hua Qianchi¡¯s expression darkened instantly. He coldly said, ¡°Let¡¯s hear your bet.¡±


    ¡°My bet is the same as yours. If you lose, you¡¯ll give me a hundred mid-grade spirit stones, crawl out of here, and shout three times that the Nine Yang Dao Sect goes against the teaching of the heavens and that you¡¯re not worthy of being called a cultivator,¡± Fang Chen said with a smile.


    The onlookers sucked in a cold breath. Was the Grand Thousand Dao Sect really going to go up against the Nine Yang Dao Sect?


    Although they didn¡¯t believe Hua Qianchi would lose to someone from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect, proposing such a bet meant putting himself in direct opposition to the Nine Yang Dao Sect, which would thoroughly offend them.


    Hua Qianchi¡¯s already grim face grew even colder. He nodded slowly. ¡°Fine. We¡¯ll do it your way. With Young Master Qi Fa here to witness, his status as the son of the Azure Dao Prefect should be sufficient?¡±


    ¡°Indeed, as the Prefect¡¯s son, his status is enough to serve as a witness,¡± Fang Chen confirmed with a nod.


    ¡°Haha, then I won¡¯t hold back.¡±


    Qi Fa¡¯s lips curled into a slight smile. Regardless of who lost, he would have a spectacle to enjoy.


    Seeing Fang Chen agree to the bet with Hua Qianchi, Qin Xuan and the others disyed expressions of glee, clearly looking forward to the oue.


    ¡°Scammer¡­. Do you not know that Brother Hua from the Nine Yang Dao Sect has inherited the legacy of an Immortal Origin Stone Master, and he himself is one?¡± Qin Xuan mocked. ¡°Just wait and see how you crawl out of here.¡±


    ¡°Miss Qin Xuan, I can¡¯t call myself a true Immortal Origin Stone Master. My master says I¡¯m still not quite there yet. However, dealing with a few minor sect chatans should be quite easy,¡± Hua Qianchi said with a faint smile.


    Though his words seemed modest, they carried an air of extreme confidence.


    Turning to Fang Chen, Hua Qianchi continued, ¡°To save time, let¡¯s each select an Immortal Origin Stone here, valued at no more than five hundred low-grade spirit stones. The one who reveals the more valuable item will win. What do you think?¡±


    Fang Chen nodded. ¡°Agreed.¡±


    Without further ado, Hua Qianchi began selecting an Immortal Origin Stone. Fang Chen and Li Daoye started choosing theirs as well. To amodate their gamble, the other customers in the shop set aside their Immortal Origin Stone and waited to continue after the duel.


    Qin Ye nced at Fang Chen and asked softly, ¡°Brother Hua, are you confident?¡±


    Hua Qianchi showed a smile. ¡°In the n, when ites to Immortal Origin Stones, I am only second to my master."


    Qin Ye¡¯s lips curled into a slight smile as he nodded. Hua Qianchi¡¯s words were not mere boasting; the Immortal Qin n and the Nine Yang Dao Sect had a deeply established cooperation when it came to Immortal Origin Stones. He was well aware of this.

 Chapter 585: Everything is Countable

    Looking at Hua Qianchi and seeing how confident he was, Li Daoye couldn''t help but grow somewhat anxious. ¡°Lord Fang, should we be worried about losing? Do you want me to use my Divination of the Stars to check?¡±


    ¡°Can the Divination of the Stars actually predict these things?¡± Fang Chen asked with curiosity.


    ¡°Of course! It can predict both heaven and earth, anything at all, depending on my cultivation level. If my cultivation is sufficient, I could even predict when a celestial maiden will bathe and when her period wille,¡± Li Daoye said with a hint of pride.


    ¡°The celestial maidens wouldn¡¯t ask you to make such predictions,¡± Fang Chen said with a wry smile.


    Then, Fang Chen closed his eyes, extending his spirit sense to observe the Immortal Origin Stones priced below five hundred low-grade spirit stones.


    Compared to the past, Fang Chen¡¯s spirit power was now much stronger than it was in the Grand Qian Empire, making it easier to assess an Immortal Origin Stone.


    ¡°This is an Immortal Origin Stone technique!?¡±


    ¡°Indeed, the Nine Yang Dao Sect is truly exceptional. Even their Immortal Origin Stone technique surpasses many contemporary sects,¡± marveled Hua Qianchi, his voice was filled with surprise, admiration, and jealousy.


    Li Daoye hurriedly looked over and saw Hua Qianchi holding an Immortal Origin Stone surrounded by a faint white aura. The aura fluctuated between being dense and dissipating.Li Daoye looked skeptical. ¡°This is the Immortal Origin Stone Technique?¡±


    He couldn''t discern much from it, and the white aura appeared to be just ordinary spirit energy, as if it were intentionally created.


    After observing for a while, he saw Hua Qianchi suddenly p the Immortal Origin Stone with his palm, causing the white aura to merge into the Immortal Origin Stone. The next moment, the Immortal Origin Stone began to emit a faint glow.


    The faint light of the Immortal Origin Stone changed from white to blue, bing slightly more intense.


    Hua Qianchi''s eyes flickered. ¡°Hm?¡±


    Slightly surprised, he examined the Immortal Origin Stone in his hand. This Immortal Origin Stone was norger than his palm, and its price of four hundred low-grade spirit stones was due to its high quality. Hua Qianchi had chosen this Immortal Origin Stone for its high quality, but he hadn''t expected it to be even better than he had anticipated.


    Typically, people judged the quality of Immortal Origin Stones based on experience and appearance, which can be misleading and lead to mistakes. The Immortal Origin Stone Technique, however, delved directly into the essence of the Immortal Origin Stone, assessing its quality. If the quality exceeded the price, it would highly likely to be a good choice.


    However, Immortal Origin Stones didn''t depend only on quality; whether an Immortal Origin Stone yielded a valuable item was also a matter of luck. A master could find Immortal Origin Stones that appear impressive but ultimately reveal nothing of worth once cut open.


    Hua Qianchi had ample experience in this area. Recognizing that the Immortal Origin Stone was of good quality, he did not immediately make a decision but continued to examine other Immortal Origin Stones.


    By the time half an hour had passed, Hua Qianchi¡¯splexion had turned somewhat pale. Using his technique repeatedly had clearly depleted his spirit energy. In the end, he selected the very first Stone he had picked, the one emitting a faint blue hue.


    Meanwhile, Fang Chen remained motionless, appearing somewhat dazed to the onlookers, as if he was unsure of which Immortal Origin Stone to choose.


    The members of the n around Qin Xuan smirked. ¡°Qin Xuan, this fraud is about to embarrass himself. I doubt he will have the face to stay in the Immortal Qin Manor afterward.¡±


    Qin Xuan felt that this was still not enough to vent her anger and had already decided that once the other party left the Immortal Qin Manor, she would find someone to teach them a lesson.


    Standing outside the crowd, He Baiyan watched the scene indifferently, a slight smile on his lips. He ignited a Transmission Talisman.


    "First Lady, it seems that Daoist Fang is about to lose an Immortal Origin Stone bet with Hua Qianchi from the Nine Yang Dao Sect. Daoist Fang has stated that if he loses, he will hand over one hundred mid-grade spirit stones and leave the Immortal Origin District on his knees."


    After sending the message, He Baiyan''s smile grew deeper.


    At the Immortal Qin Manor, Chu Lan stood silently in front of a middle-aged man, while Wu Wan continued to persuade him softly.


    "Dear, this matter really has nothing to do with Chu Lan. It''s all Feng''er¡¯s impulsiveness. Now that Chu Lan has learned the whereabouts of the Three Sr Fruit from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect''s cultivator, as long as she can find this fruit and hand it over to the ancestor, the ancestor will surely not punish Feng¡¯er."


    "Impulsive? If she hadn''t indulged Feng''er so much, would Feng''er have dared to make a move against the ancestor?"


    The middle-aged man pointed at Chu Lan and said harshly, "Tell me, did you participate in this matter? If you tell me now, I can still plead with the ancestor. If, on the day of the council, the ancestor finds out that you were involved, both you and Feng''er will have your cultivation abolished and be expelled from the Immortal Qin n!"


    Chu Lan showed a bitter smile. "Do you think I would help Feng''er steal the ancestor''s Three Sr Fruit, dear?"


    The middle-aged man''s expression softened slightly. However, his tone remained cold. "Given your character, I don''t believe you would do such a thing, but I can''t understand how Feng''er managed to enter the Spirit Fruit Garden."


    "Except for the Immortal Qin n''s direct descendants who are in the Nascent Soul Realm or above, no one else can enter. Even Feng''er couldn''t get in!"


    "I don''t want to delve further into this matter. As long as we find another Three Sr Fruit, the ancestor will surely calm down," Chu Lan said.


    The middle-aged man¡¯s eyes revealed a trace of mockery. "Find another Three Sr Fruit? Ha, even the ancestor doesn''t have a Three Sr Fruit. How can a cultivator from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect that you found know the whereabouts of the Three Sr Fruit?


    "You, a Nascent Soul cultivator, have been yed like a fiddle by a Foundation Building Realm cultivator and have be aughingstock of the Immortal Qin n. Do you know what the second and third branches have been saying about you these days? They say that all your years of cultivation have gone to waste!


    "If you and your son could be like Wan''er and Nie''er, perhaps I might live a few more years!"


    "Sister Chu Lan is only acting out of concern for her son. Please do not me her any further," Wu Wan said, her eyes reddening.


    At this moment, Chu Lan and the middle-aged man both received a transmission.


    Chu Lan¡¯s expression changed abruptly.


    Having received the same message, the middle-aged man sneered repeatedly as he looked at Chu Lan. "Did the Grand Thousand Dao Sect cultivator you found dare to bet with Hua Qianchi from the Nine Yang Dao Sect on Immortal Origin Stones? And the stake was the one hundred mid-grade spirit stones you gave him? I see that after today, people outside will treat you as a joke!"


    ¡°I¡¯ll go to the Immortal Source Pavilion,¡± Chu Lan said softly.


    ¡°Then let¡¯s go together. Since the Grand Thousand Dao Sect is causing unrest in our Immortal Qin n, it¡¯s about time the Immortal Qin n shows its stance,¡± the middle-aged man replied coldly.


    With that, he headed toward the door.


    Wu Wan, seeing this, looked worried and whispered to Chu Lan, ¡°Chu Lan, your husband¡¯s killing intent is strong right now. I¡¯m afraid the person you invited might be in danger!¡±


    Chu Lan''s face turned a bit pale. If her husband really did kill Fang Chen, wouldn¡¯t that mean Qin Feng would be beyond saving?!


    Thinking of this, Chu Lan quickly chased after the middle-aged man. Wu Wan watched her retreating figure, a faint smile appearing on her face.


    At the Immortal Origin District, Hua Qianchi smirked at Fang Chen. ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Haven¡¯t you chosen an Immortal Origin Stone yet? If you don¡¯t know how to assess it, you might as well ask the fellow Daoists around you.¡±


    Fang Chen thought for a moment before casually picking out an Immortal Origin Stone.


    The crowd looked at the price tag with strange expressions.


    Thirty low-grade spirit stones?!


    The shopkeeper approached Fang Chen. ncing at the Immortal Origin Stone in Fang Chen''s hand, the shopkeeper raised his brow in bewilderment.


    ¡°Customer, have you made up your mind? The betting agreement states that the Immortal Origin Stone should be priced below five hundred low-grade spirit stones. As long as it doesn¡¯t exceed five hundred, it¡¯s fine. The quality of this Immortal Origin Stone¡­.¡±

 Chapter 586: It’s Just a Joke

    "Shopkeeper Huang, are you trying to interfere in the bet between me and him?" Hua Qianchi said lightly.


    Shopkeeper Huang was slightly taken aback. After a pause, heughed awkwardly. "I wouldn¡¯t dare, I wouldn¡¯t dare. It was just a slip of the tongue."


    Hua Qianchi¡¯s face showed a slight smile as he nced at the Immortal Origin Stone in Fang Chen¡¯s hand. "Daoist Fang, do you know why this Immortal Origin Stone is priced at thirty low-grade spirit stones?"


    "Why?" Fang Chen asked.


    "Because its quality is too low. Any cultivator who¡¯s yed with Immortal Origin Stones for a few months could tell," Hua Qianchi chuckled. "It seems that Daoist Fang knows nothing about Immortal Origin Stones. How about I give you another chance to pick a different one?"


    The expressions of the surrounding crowd were varied. Some were filled with mockery, while others showed pity. It was clear to them that this person knew nothing about Immortal Origin Stones.


    Fang Chen nced at the Immortal Origin Stone in Hua Qianchi¡¯s hand; it waspletely empty. In contrast, the one in his own hand still had something inside, at least ensuring he wouldn¡¯t lose.


    After some thought, Fang Chen shook his head. "I¡¯ll stick with this one, no need to change."


    "Are you sure?" Hua Qianchi asked with a smile.Fang Chen countered with a grin. "Or are you afraid to bet?"


    Hua Qianchi couldn¡¯t help but shake his head. He turned to Qi Fa, sping his hands in salute. "Young Master Qi Fa, may I trouble you to oversee this bet?"


    "Of course, of course. Which of you will open theirs first?" Qi Fa replied with a faint smile.


    Just then, amotion erupted outside the door, and a group of people walked in. The middle-aged man at the front moved with the strength and confidence of a dragon and tiger. As soon as he appeared, the cultivators present felt an invisible pressure enveloping them.


    Qin Nie immediately stepped forward respectfully. "Greetings, Father!"


    Qin Xuan and the others quickly followed suit, stepping forward to pay their respects.


    Chu Lan, noticing Qin Xuan''s presence, felt her face darken even further. Spotting Fang Chen in the crowd, she sent him a voice transmission filled with a hint of anger, "Daoist Fang, why must you cause trouble at this time!?"


    "Lady Chu, there is no need to worry," Fang Chen replied calmly through voice transmission, attempting to reassure her.


    Chu Lan''s expression grew even more grim. <em>No need to worry?</em>


    She promptly noticed He Baiyan approaching. She shot him a cold nce, causing him to freeze in his tracks, panic shing across his face.


    The middle-aged man swept his gaze across the room before finally settling on Qi Fa, forcing a smile. "Young Master Qi Fa."


    Qi Fa chuckled and stepped forward with a curious glint in his eye. "So it¡¯s the head of the Immortal Qin n. Are you interested in Immortal Origin Stones as well?"


    The middle-aged man shook his head with a smile. "I happened to be passing by with my wife and heard there was a stone gambling event inside, so I decided to take a look."


    Qi Fa smirked, his gaze lingering on Chu Lan. "Head of the Immortal Qin n, your timing couldn¡¯t have been better. I hear that the person betting against Hua Qianchi was invited back by First Lady Chu from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect?"  ?


    The middle-aged man¡¯s face immediately darkened. He slowly turned his gaze toward Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen, however, remainedposed, cupping his hands and bowing slightly. "Greetings, esteemed head of the Immortal Qin n"


    The middle-aged man nodded indifferently, his expression cold. "Carry on with your bet; pay no attention to us."


    Seeing the situation, Qi Faughed heartily and casually pointed at Fang Chen. "You go first. Cut open your Immortal Origin Stone."


    Qin Xuan quietly moved to stand beside Chu Lan and whispered, "Mother, soon we¡¯ll be able to expose this fraudster¡¯s true face. You¡¯ll get your hundred mid-grade spirit stones back in no time, thanks to Senior Brother Hua stepping in to help. If it weren¡¯t for him..."


    Chu Lan nced at her daughter and transmitted, "<em>Didn¡¯t I warn you not to get involved in this matter? I know what I¡¯m doing. Why can¡¯t you just listen to me?</em>"


    Qin Xuan felt aggrieved. "<em>Mother, you don¡¯t know how people have been talking about youtely¡­.</em>"


    Chu Lan sighed inwardly and said nothing more.


    Fang Chen¡¯s method of cutting the Immortal Origin Stone was straightforward and borderline crude, reinforcing the belief that he was a novice in this field.


    Soon, the Immortal Origin Stone in Fang Chen¡¯s hand was fully cut open. Qi Fa stepped forward, took a look, and couldn¡¯t help butugh. "He cut out shards of spirit stones, just enough to make a single one."


    The crowd gazed at the fingernail-sized low-grade spirit stone shards and burst intoughter. The price of the Immortal Origin Stone had already determined its oue, so they weren¡¯t surprised; in fact, they felt it was exactly as expected.


    The middle-aged man¡¯s face grew even darker, and he shot a fierce re at Chu Lan, who looked somewhat pale.


    Qin Xuan didn¡¯t notice this, but she was nheless drowning in satisfaction that the fraudster was doomed to lose.


    Li Daoye drew in a sharp breath, casting a peculiar look at Fang Chen.


    Looking at Fang Chen¡¯s calm and unflustered face, Li Daoye felt increasingly uncertain.


    He instinctively shifted his attention to the Immortal Origin Stone in Hua Qianchi¡¯s hand, growing more anxious. <em>That stone priced at four hundred spirit stones in his hand¡­. surely it couldn''t be empty, right?</em>


    "Even if he gets something small, it should definitely be worth more than a single low-grade spirit stone..." Hua Qianchi muttered as he walked over to Fang Chen, scrutinizing the stone for a moment before suddenly smiling. "You¡¯re lucky, at least you didn¡¯t lose everything."


    He then carefully began unwrapping the Immortal Origin Stone in his hand,yer byyer, being cautious not to damage anything within.


    The crowd watched with growing curiosity, eagerly awaiting the full reveal of the Immortal Origin Stone.


    Layer byyer, Hua Qianchi peeled away the stone. As time passed, the Immortal Origin Stone in his hands shrank from the size of a palm to the size of a quail egg, but still, nothing was revealed. A few people began to show odd expressions.


    Qin Nie remained calm, confident that Hua Qianchi wouldn¡¯t fail to uncover something worth at least a low-grade spirit stone. However, Hua Qianchi¡¯s eyes betrayed a flicker of panic that he quickly suppressed, trying to maintain hisposure as he continued to delicately work on the stone.


    After another moment, Hua Qianchi looked down at his now empty palm, lost in thought. The shop fell into a stunned silence. Every gaze in the room was filled with disbelief.


    <em>There was nothing!</em>


    <em>It¡¯spletely empty!</em>


    The Immortal Origin Stone in Hua Qianchi¡¯s hand had revealed absolutely nothing, despite being worth a full four hundred low-grade spirit stones!


    "Could it be that we are seeing wrong?" someone murmured, breaking the silence.


    ¡°Surely that can¡¯t be right. It¡¯s not possible for the two of us to see wrong, right?¡± someone whispered in reply.


    ¡°It really is empty¡­¡± another voice added, as the murmurs grew louder.


    Qin Xuan and the others looked around in shock, exchanging nces.


    Chu Lan¡¯s pale face now had a tinge of color, and she cast an oddly curious look at Fang Chen.


    The head of the Immortal Qin n, who had intended to act after the wager ended, frowned slightly. He nced at Fang Chen and then at Hua Qianchi, remaining silent for the moment.


    ¡°Uh... Qin Nie, did Hua Qianchi really not uncover anything?¡± Qi Fa asked, turning to Qin Nie.


    Qin Nie¡¯s expression remained unchanged, and he said nothing.


    Li Daoye suddenlyughed. ¡°It seems Daoist Fang has won this round. Although he only uncovered a low-grade spirit stone, it¡¯s still better than nothing.¡±


    ¡°How could this happen¡­¡± Hua Qianchi muttered, his head hanging low.


    His face was pale, and his eyes showed confusion and panic.


    Fang Chen¡¯s voice rang out. ¡°Daoist Hua, it¡¯s time to fulfill your end of the wager.¡±


    Hua Qianchi stiffened slightly, as if struck by lightning. He slowly turned his head to look at Fang Chen, remaining silent.


    Seeing this, Qin Nie suddenly burst into a chuckle and said to Fang Chen, ¡°Daoist Fang, we were just having a bit of fun. Don¡¯t take it too seriously.¡±

 Chapter 587: Bound

    <h4>Chapter 587: Bound </h4>


    Reminded by Qin Nie, Hua Qianchi immediately caught on to that lifeline and nodded. "Right, it was just a joke. Daoist Fang, there''s no need to take it so seriously."


    Everyone looked at Hua Qianchi with raised brows.


    However, Hua Qianchi was too focused to consider much. This bet involved the dignity of the Nine Yang Dao Sect; he would rather lose face and be called dishonest than let the Nine Yang Dao Sect¡¯s reputation be utterly destroyed!


    "You¡¯re being a bit shameless, aren¡¯t you? How can the agreed-upon bet turn into a joke when it¡¯s time to fulfill it?" Li Daoye sneered. He looked at Qi Fa. "As the son of the prefect, surely you will speak a fair word."


    Qi Fa pondered and nodded. "If you had signed a contract, I could say something fair, but since it was only a verbal agreement... Hua Qianchi not wanting to admit it leaves you powerless."


    At this point, Qi Fa looked at Hua Qianchi with a strange smile. "Hua Qianchi, have you considered this carefully? Doing so might affect your reputation in the Azure Dao Manor."


    "Qi Fa, what reputation do I have? I¡¯m just a nameless practitioner in the cultivation world," Hua Qianchi smiled as he peered at Fang Chen and Li Daoye, "But what I said earlier wasn''t entirely a joke. I will give you one hundred mid-grade spirit stones."


    This statement carried a hidden meaning, suggesting that they should be content with the offer and not bring up the other terms of the bet.


    "Daoist Fang, it seems this person is determined to go back on his word," Li Daoye said, looking at Fang Chen with a sigh.


    Chu Lan''s eyes flickered slightly, but she was stopped from speaking by the sharp gaze of the head of the Immortal Qin n.


    The head of the Immortal Qin n nced at Qin Nie, Qin Xuan, and the others and said, "You young ones waste your time on Immortal Origin Stones instead of focusing on your cultivation. ying around and losing your purpose... How will you shoulder the responsibilities of the Immortal Qin n in the future? Come with me!"


    With that, he turned and walked away. The others looked at each other and had no choice but to follow him.


    Seeing that Qin Nie and Qi Fa had left, Hua Qianchi didn''t want to stay and embarrass himself further. He casually spoke to Fang Chen and Li Daoye, ¡°I will gather a hundred mid-grade spirit stones in a month. You cane to the Nine Yang Dao Sect to retrieve them when the timees.¡±


    He had to retrieve the spirit stones at the Nine Yang Dao Sect?


    The people around exchanged looks. It seemed that Hua Qianchi was only offering a false promise and didn''t have the intention to fulfill even that end of the bet.


    As Hua Qianchi turned to leave, he was surprised to see Fang Chen standing at the door, with his gray-white eyes locked onto him.


    Hua Qianchi''s eyes held a trace of mockery. "Is there something else?"


    "Daoist Hua, the bet has not been fulfilled."


    "What bet? Didn¡¯t I say it was just a joke? Did you really take it seriously?" Hua Qianchi said with a half-smile. "You happened to stumble upon a lucky chance and think you¡¯re capable."


    "Are you saying that meeting you is that lucky chance?" Li Daoye asked, astonished.


    Hua Qianchi''s expression darkened. "I was referring to the Immortal Origin Stone."


    "So, you truly do not intend to honor the bet?" Fang Chen asked.


    "Are you trying to make a move against me? That''s just what I want. Let me see what kind of methods the Grand Thousand Dao Sect has, which dares to im itself to be on the orthodox path," mocked Hua Qianchi,ughing heartily.


    Slowly, his spiritual energy started to surge.


    In the next moment, golden ropes began to materialize in the void. These ropes were clearly condensed from metal-type energy, with a deep and majestic aura, showcasing their profound foundation!


    The crowd''s expressions grew tense, unsure of what kind of technique Hua Qianchi was employing. However, they were certain it was anything but weak.


    What they didn''t notice was that Hua Qianchi''s eyes were filled with shock. In the next moment, these golden ropes bound himpletely. His neck, shoulders, waist, arms, and legs... every possible part was tied up.


    Hua Qianchi''s spiritual barrier was utterly powerless against the golden ropes. It was as fragile as tofu. Now bound, Hua Qianchi fell to his knees before Fang Chen.


    The ropes had been tied in a manner that impeded him from standing.


    The people watching were left standing in astonishment. Hua Qianchi was reputed to be the top young figure of the Nine Yang Dao Sect. His cultivation was even said to surpass Qin Nie''s, and it was rumored he would advance to the Golden Core Realm within ten years.


    How could he be subdued without even having a chance to retaliate?


    "What kind of technique is this!" roared Hua Qianchi in a mix of rage and astonishment.


    He struggled with all his might, but the ropes remained unyielding.


    His face shortly turned beet red as he realized he was kneeling in front of a Grand Thousand Dao Sect cultivator, a situation even more humiliating than death itself.


    "A disciple from the esteemed Nine Yang Dao Sect doesn''t even know how to use the Five Elements Technique properly?" Fang Chen said with a faint smile. "If I remember correctly, isn¡¯t this a basic technique that cultivators learn upon entry to the path of cultivation?"


    "This is definitely not the Five Elements Control Technique!" Hua Qianchi shouted angrily.


    He couldn''t believe what Fang Chen was saying. The Five Elements Control Technique could only do basic maniption of the Five Elements power, while these golden ropes clearly used metal energy as their foundation!


    Li Daoye chuckled and said, "It seems you were right earlier. You called Fang Daoist a blind cat, but you are a dead rat."


    Hua Qianchi felt countless eyes on him, filled with either schadenfreude, ridicule, or pity.


    Provoked by Li Daoye¡¯s words, he let out a thunderous roar and charged at Fang Chen, leaping towards him with a fierce intent!


    The roar reached the ears of the Immortal Qin n''s patriarch and others, who had yet to leave the Immortal Origin District. They stopped and turned around, looking toward themotion.


    <i>Boom!</i>


    The store¡¯s door was instantly smashed, and a figure was hurled outside before crashing on the street. Due to the inertia, the figure slid across the ground, scattering the stalls on either side of the street.


    ck-d cultivators rushed over, about to scold the intruder, but seeing their own patriarch present, they hesitated, unsure of how to proceed.


    In the Immortal Qin n, the maintenance of order among cultivators was naturally overseen by the Immortal Qin n, and these ck-d cultivators were experts trained by the Immortal Qin n.


    "Isn''t that Senior Brother Hua? How did this happen!" Qin Xuan eximed in shock.


    The Immortal Qin n members beside her all wore peculiar expressions, ncing instinctively toward Qin Nie.


    Qin Nie frowned, shifting his gaze from Hua Qianchi to the two figures behind him.


    "Qin Nie, it seems that the technique of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect is quite formidable; He defeated Hua Qianchi," Qi Fa said, examining the golden ropes on Hua Qianchi with a gloating smile.


    "Do you dare to fight me fair and square?! Argh!"


    Seeing his embarrassing and awkward situation exposed to the Immortal Qin n members, Hua Qianchi¡¯s face turned bright red, his anger boiling over as his expression became frenzied.


    Suddenly, a dusty foot descended from the sky andnded on his face, forcibly silencing his enraged shouts.


    "Weren''t we just fighting fair and square? You couldn¡¯t even withstand one of my moves." Fang Chen looked down at Hua Qianchi. "Now, will you honor the bet?"


    <i>He couldn''t even handle one move?!</i>


    Qin Xuan and the others were shocked. Hua Qianchi was a leading figure among the younger generation. Even Qin Nie would struggle in a fight against him.


    Although the Nine Yang Dao Sectcked an ancestor in the Dao Union Realm, it was still a prestigious and well-established sect, with a heritage as profound as that of the Immortal Qin n. How could a prodigy from such a sect lose to a cultivator from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect!?

 Chapter 589: Calculating Both Good and Bad Fortune

    <h4>Chapter 589: Calcting Both Good and Bad Fortune</h4>


    Fang Chen listened for a while longer and saw that Qin Nie and Qi Fa had started discussing other matters before he returned to his senses. Although Qin Nie revealed little information this time, it was enough to discern his general scheme.


    Many powerful figures in the Azure Dao Manor likely believed that the Immortal Qin n and the Langya n would go to war, but it would probably be a short conflict,sting only a few days.


    ¡°Lord Fang, have some tea,¡± Li Daoye said as he poured a cup of tea for Fang Chen.


    They were currently in a teahouse, about a hundred paces away from Qin Nie and the others.


    Looking at Fang Chen who had finished the cup of tea, Li Daoyi asked with curiosity, ¡°Lord Fang, do you think that Hua Qianchi might be a practitioner of the Spirit Blood Sect?¡±


    Fang Chen smiled. ¡°Why don¡¯t you use the Divination of the Stars Technique to divinate it?¡±


    Li Daoye grew embarrassed. ¡°That would be too consuming. Calcting vague and abstract matters is manageable, but for such precise information, it would take at least fifty years off my lifespan.¡±


    Li Daoye paused. ¡°Lord Fang, do you think there are any other practitioners of the Spirit Blood Sect in the Qin n besides Qin Nie? Could Qi Fa also be a practitioner of the Spirit Blood Sect?¡±


    Fang Chen did not answer immediately, only showing Li Daoye a calm look.


    Li Daoye¡¯s face showed a wry smile. ¡°Since I¡¯ve seen the methods of the Spirit Blood Sect, I¡¯ve started suspecting everyone of being from the Spirit Blood Sect.¡±


    ¡°As long as one takes the Spirit Blood Pill, they can significantly increase their cultivation and even ignore bottlenecks," Fang Chen said softly. ¡°Such temptation is almost impossible for ordinary cultivators to resist, so your thoughts are correct. It¡¯s possible that Spirit Blood Sect practitioners are indeed widespread.¡±


    Li Daoye gasped. ¡°Is this really manageable? Do the major figures not care about this?¡±


    Fang Chen thought of the Killing Spiritual Division and smiled lightly. ¡°It¡¯s not that they don¡¯t care, but it¡¯s difficult to manage. Firstly, one must be able to distinguish who is a practitioner of the Spirit Blood Sect. Their cultivation methods are varied and cannot be identified through their aura alone, which is a headache even for those major figures.¡±


    Li Daoye seemed thoughtful. ¡°That makes sense...."


    At that moment, a shout came from outside.


    ¡°Who dares to humiliate a disciple of the Nine Yang Dao Sect in such a way? Come out!¡±


    Over a dozen figures stood in the air. The leader wore a dark-colored Daoist robe. Although his aura was concealed, even those at the Qi Refining Realm and Foundation Building Realms could feel a strong pressure.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that Protector Zhao from the Nine Yang Dao Sect?¡±


    ¡°Protector Zhao has a fiery temper. The Grand Thousand Dao Sect cultivator is in trouble now.¡±


    ¡°I heard that the ancestor of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect is only at the early-stage Golden Core Realm, while Protector Zhao advanced to thete-stage Golden Core Realm a few years ago. He is likely to be a figure at the elder level in the future.¡±


    Seated in the teahouse, Qin Nie looked at the neers with a faint smile and said to Qin Xuan and the others, ¡°The Nine Yang Dao Sect has over a hundred protectors. Protector Zhao¡¯s strength isn¡¯t considered top-tier among them, but he alone could easily annihte the Grand Thousand Dao Sect.¡±


    Qin Xuan and the others all revealed smiles on their faces.


    ¡°Protector... Zhao....¡±


    Hua Qianchi finally opened his eyes, his expression slightly agitated. He had been pretending to be unconscious to wait for the Nine Yang Dao Sect experts to arrive.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid, I¡¯m here now. I heard that the person who made a move was a cultivator from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect? Hmph, it seems the Grand Thousand Dao Sect is itching for a fight with us from the Nine Yang Dao Sect.¡±


    Protector Zhao sneered. He stepped forward and pulled on the metal ropes binding Hua Qianchi with all his might.


    <i>Hmm?</i>


    Protector Zhao was surprised to find that he couldn''t budge the metal ropes at all.


    Protector Zhao sneered again. ¡°I don¡¯t believe I can''t remove them!¡±


    He immediately took out a flying sword to sh at the metal ropes. The flying sword in his hand was imbued with a strong aura, possessing seventy-two Soul Imprints.


    As the sword struck, mes erupted. With a crack, the flying sword broke apart, its fragments piercing through the spiritual barrier around Hua Qianchi and leaving a bloody cut on his face.


    The Immortal Origin District fell into an eerie silence.


    Qin Nie¡¯s expression darkened, his gaze growing grim.


    <i>What exactly is this golden rope?! Was it an treasure or a spell? If it were a spell, it wouldn''t be able to withstand even Protector Zhao''s attacks. If it¡¯s a treasure, and considering the opponent is only at the Foundation Building Realm, how could they possibly control such a high grade treasure?</i>


    Despite Protector Zhao¡¯s various attempts and methods, fifteen minutes had passed yet he still could not break apart the golden ropes around Hua Qianchi.


    Hua Qianchi finally couldn¡¯t help but remind him, ¡°Protector Zhao, please find the cultivator from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect first.¡±


    ¡°Right!¡±


    Protector Zhao immediately nodded, his cold gaze sweeping over the crowd below. ¡°Grand Thousand Dao Sect¡¯s rats,e out now. If you don¡¯t show yourselves, I¡¯ll take my men to your Grand Thousand Dao Sect for a visit when I have the chance.¡±


    As soon as his words fell, countless golden ropes suddenly appeared in the air. In an instant, Protector Zhao and his apanying disciples were all bound and suspended beside Hua Qianchi.


    Protector Zhao was furious and panicked, immediately channeling his spiritual energy to try and break free, but he found that the more he struggled, the tighter the golden ropes constricted!


    If this continued, they might be torn apart by the ropes right then and there!


    ¡°Even the Nine Yang Dao Sect''s protector has been bound?¡±


    Various cultivators watching the scene had peculiar expressions. Many showed gloating looks. Some of them, wearing Daoist robes, were clearly from Dao sects.


    In the tea house.


    ¡°I say... is this guy really from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect? What kind of technique is this?¡±


    Qi Fa looked at Qin Nie with surprise. ¡°Since your Immortal Qin n alsoes from a Dao sect, you should recognize it, right?¡±


    Qin Nie bore a serious expression. He slowly shook his head.


    A member of the Immortal Qin n whispered, ¡°Could it be the Binding Immortal Rope? I¡¯ve heard that some top-tier sects have this inheritance.¡±


    ¡°So he is actually this strong...¡± Qin Xuan murmured to herself.


    Protector Zhao, who was in thete stage of the Golden Core Realm, had been bound effortlessly. This technique was at least equivalent to the grandpletion stage of the Golden Core Realm.


    Could it be that the other party has been concealing their cultivation level from the beginning? Was his cultivation at the Foundation Building Realm just a disguise?


    Some, like Qin Xuan, spected simrly and voiced their guesses. Qin Nie, deep in thought, lightly nodded. ¡°It does seem like he has concealed his cultivation level. I¡¯ve heard that this person holds a high rank in the Grand Thousand Dao Sect, even higher than Pei Qingfeng.¡±


    ¡°Who is Pei Qingfeng?¡± Qi Fa asked casually.


    ¡°Pei Qingfeng is the ancestor of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect, at the initial stage of the Golden Core Realm,¡± Qin Nie replied.


    His gaze shifted back to Protector Zhao and his group, and Fang Chen¡¯s figure surfaced in his mind.


    <i>This person is quite unusual.</i>


    A Transmission Talisman quietly ignited in his sleeve.


    ***


    Hua Qianchi watched Protector Zhao, who was bound just like him, and remained silent for a long time.


    Protector Zhao continued to curse until the golden ropesshed him harshly on the mouth hundreds of times, after which he dizzily closed his mouth.


    Li Daoye, looking through the window at this scene, showed a worried expression, ¡°Lord Fang, you don¡¯t really intend to go against the Nine Yang Dao Sect, do you?¡±


    ¡°The time isn¡¯t ripe yet. To find out their true trump cards, we need to thoroughly provoke them,¡± Fang Chen replied with a faint smile.


    Li Daoye sighed inwardly, fearing that if their trump cards were revealed, it might crush them....


    ¡°No, I need to calcte the fortune and misfortune!¡±


    Li Daoye immediately began to use his Divination of the Stars technique.

 Chapter 590: Please Come Back. Lets Have A Proper Chat

    <h4>Chapter 590: Please Come Back. Let''s Have A Proper Chat</h4>


    In the outer courtyard of the Nine Yang Dao Sect, a mysterious yellow bell suddenly chimed.


    The guardians who had been going about their business quickly set aside their duties and rushed to an open pavilion.


    An aged Daoist priest was already standing there when they arrived. Upon seeing this person, the guardians greeted him respectfully, sping their fists and bowing. ¡°Greetings, Elder Fang!¡±


    The old Daoist priest nodded slightly, but his gaze remained fixed on the Heaven Profound Mirror in his hand.


    The guardians looked on, puzzled, and exchanged nces.


    After a few moments, the old Daoist priest smiled and said. ¡°Come and have a look.¡±


    The guardians gathered around to observe.


    Looking at what was depicted in the mirror, they were stunned. Protector Zhao and Hua Qianchi, among others, were shown bound and suspended in mid-air.


    Realization soon dawned on the guardians, and their faces darkened with anger. Someone hissed in a low voice, ¡°Who is so bold as to attack our Nine Yang Dao Sect¡¯s cultivators?¡±


    Elder Fang sighed lightly. ¡°I¡¯ve heard it was cultivators from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect.¡±


    He continued, ¡°What do you all think about this? If cultivators from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect can humiliate our Nine Yang Dao Sect, we will be aughingstock among the sects if this gets out.¡±


    The guardians exchanged nces. They said in unison, ¡°Please give us your orders, Elder Fang!¡±


    ¡°Very well. You all go and retrieve these disgraceful people, and also bring that person from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect here for a chat.¡± Elder Fang sighed lightly. ¡°I won¡¯t take action myself. If facing the Grand Thousand Dao Sect requires a Nascent Soul Realm expert, it won¡¯t be a matter of bing aughingstock. We¡¯ll be the butt of all jokes.¡±


    After speaking, he turned and walked away, his steps a bit unsteady.


    ¡°Everyone, let¡¯s set out immediately,¡± one of the guardians said with a dark expression.


    Before long, sword lights shot up into the sky from the Nine Yang Dao Sect, disappearing into the horizon.


    ***


    In the tea house.


    Fang Chen watched as Li Daoyao divinated. He smiled. ¡°So, have you figured it out?¡±


    A wisp of white vapor slowly dissipated from Li Daoyao¡¯s seven orifices. He looked clearly fatigued but still appeared rxed. ¡°Fortune favors the righteous.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good to hear."


    At that moment, Hua Qianchi¡¯s voice suddenly rang out. He scanned the surroundings and spoke sharply. ¡°You rat! Is it not enough that you¡¯ve humiliated me today? Now you¡¯ve also dishonored Protector Zhao. Do you know what consequences await you? If you release us now, there might still be a chance to resolve this. Otherwise, the Grand Thousand Dao Sect should prepare for its destruction!¡±


    Fang Chen smiled and calmly sipped his tea, ignoring Hua Qianchi.


    Hua Qianchi¡¯s anger hit the roof. Seeing the crowd below pointing and whispering, his face gradually turned a dark shade. Protector Zhao was no better off; while Hua Qianchi was at the peak of Foundation Building Realm, Protector Zhao, in thete-stage Golden Core Realm, had suffered such a humiliating fate.


    They had been a major disgrace to their sect. All they could do was hope that the experts from their sect arrived quickly to salvage their reputation. Until then, every moment was a torment for them.


    After some time, someone suddenly pointed to the horizon and said, ¡°There are peopleing, lots of people.¡±


    Everyone looked up and nodded in agreement. ¡°Indeed, there are a lot of them.¡±


    They saw nearly a hundred sword lights approaching from a distance. Each sword light carried an extraordinary aura, with the lowest being at the early-stage of the Golden Core Realm.


    As the lights drew closer and the glow dissipated, the crowd saw nearly a hundred cultivators dressed in Daoist robes.


    Some people gasped in surprise. These cultivators were clearly of the same level as Protector Zhao, indicating they were all protectors of the Nine Yang Dao Sect!


    ¡°All the Nine Yang Dao Sect¡¯s protectors... have they alle?¡±


    Hua Qianchi and Protector Zhao looked excited. They hadn¡¯t expected the sect to value this matter so highly, sending all their protectors over.


    With nearly a hundred protectors present, even the most cunning methods of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect would be useless against them!


    Hua Qianchi even began to imagine the sight of their opponent kneeling and begging for mercy.


    A thin, tall protector shot Protector Zhao a cold nce. ¡°Protector Zhao, you¡¯ve really made a mess of things. You have disgraced the Nine Yang Dao Sect. Elder Fang is very angry, and the situation is serious.¡±


    His aura was distinguished among all the protectors, almost reaching the threshold of the Nascent Soul Realm.


    Protector Zhao¡¯s face was wreathed in embarrassment. ¡°I didn¡¯t know the Grand Thousand Dao Sect¡¯s member would have such unusual methods...¡±


    Hua Qianchi looked at the tall protector and said in a low voice, ¡°Protector Bai Li, can you please lower us down first?¡±


    ¡°Junior Brother Hua, once this matter is over, you should stay in seclusion in the sect until you reach the Golden Core Realm. Even if you''re not yet a protector, carrying the title of the top young talent of the Nine Yang Dao Sect might have made you arrogant. You dared to act recklessly without understanding the opponent¡¯s background. Do you think you deserve this title?¡± Elder Bai Li said coldly.


    He didn¡¯t untie the golden ropes binding them.


    The other protectors, seeing this, didn¡¯t dare do so either.


    ¡°Senior Brother... Senior Brother Bai, I realize my mistake,¡± Hua Qianchi said, lowering his head, his eyes filled with humiliation.


    Looking at Hua Qianchi''s sorry disy, Elder Bai Li sneered and surveyed the surroundings.


    ¡°Friends from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect,e out. I¡¯ve sent for an elder to invite you to our sect as guests.¡±


    ***


    Meanwhile, on a tall tower, Chu Lan stood alongside a ck-d cultivator. He stood in a distant corner, lowering his head.


    ¡°First Lady, our Immortal Qin n¡¯s rules are such that I can overlook minor disturbances. However, if these Nine Yang Dao Sect protectors really intend to fight here, if you want me to refrain from intervening, it will be difficult to exin to the ancestors.¡±


    The ck-d cultivator looked at the scene in the Immortal Origin District and spoke softly.


    ¡°Just don¡¯t act. Consider it as repaying a past favor,¡± Chu Lan replied.


    ¡°Favor?¡± The ck-d cultivator was slightly taken aback, his expression strange. ¡°You¡¯re using that favor just for this matter? I¡¯m no longer the Nascent Soul Realm expert I once was. It¡¯s rare to see someone like you using a favor from someone in the Enlightenment Realm so lightly.¡±


    The ck-d cultivator squinted slightly. ¡°First Lady, will this help Young Master Qin Feng?¡±


    Chu Lan shook her head. ¡°Don¡¯t ask."


    There was a hint of subtle confusion in her eyes. Even she wasn¡¯t sure how this would benefit Qin Feng, but before Fang Chen left, he asked her to intervene and prevent the Immortal Qin n from getting involved in his matter with the Nine Yang Dao Sect. Whether it was out of personal interest or if it genuinely helped the situation, she decided to take the gamble.


    ¡°Alright, I won¡¯t ask. I¡¯ll buy you some time, and after that, I¡¯ll step in to stop it,¡± the ck-d cultivator said with a slight nod.


    ***


    In the tea house, Fang Chen¡¯s face showed a smile as he turned to the astonished Li Daoye. ¡°When the fight starts, remember to stay away to avoid getting caught in the crossfire.¡±


    Li Daoist looked nervous. ¡°Wait, isn¡¯t it supposed to be good fortune? Why are nearly a hundred Golden Core Realm experts showing up? Lord Fang, can you handle this? Don¡¯t end up exhausting your lifespan like before!¡±


    Fang Chen smiled and suddenly vanished. When he reappeared, he was behind one of the protectors and struck with a single palm. The protector, caughtpletely off guard, was sent flying a hundred feet away, crashing through a tea house.


    Fang Chen followed closely.


    The protectors, including Elder Bai Li, were enraged and rushed after him.


    From a distance, the ck-d cultivator observed with an odd expression. ¡°It seems Young Master Qin Nie is in that tea house?¡±


    Chu Lan remained silent for a moment before replying. ¡°You promised me you wouldn¡¯t intervene. Give me ten minutes.¡±


    She began to have a vague understanding of what Fang Chen was trying to aplish.

 Chapter 591: Aftermath

    <h4>Chapter 591: Aftermath </h4>


    Fang Chen''s attack came so suddenly that not only did Qin Nie and the others fail to react, but even the protectors of the Nine Yang Dao Sect were a step toote.


    The teahouse had copsed, and countless cultivators flew out from inside, fleeing the area to avoid being caught in the aftermath.


    By the time the protectors arrived, they saw several cultivators unconscious on the ground, having been affected by the residual energy of the battle.


    At that moment, Fang Chen had already fought his way out with a Golden Core Realm cultivator from the other side of the teahouse. Although it seemed like a battle, in reality, the Golden Core Realm cultivator waspletely on the defensive, unable to fight back. His spiritual energy barrier was shattered with a single palm strike from Fang Chen, and every attempt to cast a spell was interrupted by Fang Chen. The cultivator could only flee in a disheveled state.


    ¡°Quick, check if the Young Master is alright!¡± a ck-d cultivator shouted.


    He and his subordinates rushed into the teahouse and found Qin Nie, Qi Fa, Qin Xuan, and others unconscious, buried under some debris. They had been caught in the aftermath of the earlier conflict.


    The group quickly moved Qin Nie and the others out of the area. The leader of the ck-d cultivators had a grim expression, his gaze fixed on Fang Chen, who was surrounded by nearly a hundred protectors of the Nine Yang Dao Sect in midair.


    ¡°The Young Master is fine, just unconscious,¡± a ck-d cultivator reported in a low voice.


    The leader of the ck-d cultivators breathed a sigh of relief.


    Someone nearby observed the scene and pointed at Qin Nie and the others, their expression a mix of curiosity and confusion. ¡°Isn¡¯t that Young Master Qin Nie?¡±


    ¡°Looks like even the talented Immortal Qin n members can be caught in the aftermath....¡±


    ¡°Of course, those are the protectors of the Nine Yang Dao Sect. They are Golden Core Realm cultivators! Even if Qin Nie is strong, being affected by the residual energy is normal.¡±


    ¡°Do you think the person from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect is really at that level? They were said to be at the Foundation Building Realm, but now it seems that was false information.¡±


    The crowd whispered among themselves.


    At the moment, Qin Nie looked quite disheveled with his eyes tightly shut and a paleplexion. Qi Fa, Qin Xuan, and the others were in a simr state. They were clearly unlucky, caught right in the center of the battle, and affected by the strongest wave of residual energy.


    From a distance, a ck-d cultivator in the high tower nced over at Qin Nie and the others. Their breathing was steady, and they didn¡¯t appear to be seriously injured.


    The ck-d cultivator¡¯s expression was somewhat strange as he sighed with relief. ¡°First Lady, what exactly are you nning?¡±


    He had originally thought that Chu Lan might be using this opportunity to have Qin Nie identally killed, thus likely avoiding punishment for Qin Feng from the Immortal Qin n¡¯s ancestor. After all, among the younger generation of the Immortal Qin n, only Qin Nie and Qin Feng had exceptional talents.


    ¡°Wang Jiang, just know that everything I do will not endanger the Immortal Qin n,¡± Chu Lan said solemnly.


    Her gaze flickered as she scanned over Qin Nie and the others. Her eyes paused briefly on Qin Xuan but didn¡¯t linger for long.


    <i>Their storage rings were gone!</i>


    Chu Lan¡¯s lips curled into a slight smile.


    At the same time, Fang Chen, having moved the Protector Bai Li to several battlefields, had thrown the entire Immortal Origin District into chaos. Many, like Qin Nie, who were inadvertently caught in the aftermath, were scattered everywhere.


    Amidst the mayhem, opportunists took advantage of the confusion to steal the Immortal Origin Stones scattered around. They also didn''t forget to snatch the storage rings of those who had fainted.


    Chaos was spreading rapidly.


    ¡°I have to admit, you have some skills. As far as I know, the Nine Yang Dao Sect doesn''t have any body cultivation techniques.¡±


    The nearly a hundred protectors surrounded Fang Chen tightly, leaving him no escape route. Every possible path was blocked by their presence.


    ¡°So you¡¯re a body cultivator; no wonder your physical strength is terrifying,¡± Protector Bai Li remarked.


    Hearing this, the other protectors quickly realized what was happening. Body cultivation had its own set of over fifty different traditions within various sects. Like techniques involving eye arts, alchemy, artifact refining, and sword cultivation, body cultivation was considered rare. However, body cultivation traditions had long been lost, and neither the Nine Yang Dao Sect nor the vast Azure Dao Manor had seen such traditions for many years.


    ¡°Friend, since you acted so suddenly, I won¡¯t pursue the matter, provided youe with us to the Nine Yang Dao Sect to meet the Senior Elder. He is waiting for you.¡±


    The expressions of the suspended Hua Qianchi and Zhao protector turned furious. They were being humiliated like this, and if they didn¡¯t teach this person a lesson today, how would they maintain their standing in the cultivation world?


    The protectors sneered repeatedly, their eyes asionally shing with greed. ¡°Yes,e with us to the Nine Yang Dao Sect."


    It seemed that the Nine Yang Dao Sect would soon add another tradition to its lineage, further strengthening its foundation within Azure Dao Manor.


    Fang Chen smiled. ¡°Your Senior Elder wants to see me? Then why doesn¡¯t hee personally?¡±


    Protector Bai Li''s expression darkened. He coldly berated, "A dignified Nascent Soul Realm cultivator still needs toe personally to see you? Do you think you deserve that? Even if Pei Qingfeng were here today, he wouldn¡¯t dare speak such words; he would have to address me as his fellow cultivator!¡±


    Fang Chen smiled. ¡°Well, that¡¯s unfortunate. Martial Nephew Pei would have to call me his Martial Uncle. How about you give it a try?¡±


    <i>Huh?! Pei Qingfeng¡¯s Martial Uncle?</i>


    Everyone was slightly taken aback. While they understood that this person had to hold a significant position within the Grand Thousand Dao Sect, they didn¡¯t expect him to be a senior of Pei Qingfeng. ording to their knowledge, Pei Qingfeng was currently at the highest rank within the Nine Yang Dao Sect, with no one above him.


    Protector Bai Li frowned. "Why am I unaware that the Grand Thousand Dao Sect has such a prominent figure like you?"


    ¡°The Grand Thousand Dao Sect does not confine itself to one ce. There are many elders in seclusion, otherwise, how could we be known as the orthodox sect?¡±


    Originally, Protector Bai Li had some doubts about whether Fang Chen was truly from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect, but hearing this statement, those doubts were dispelled. Only someone from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect would speak in such a manner.


    ¡°Orthodox sect... Hah... Just aughingstock among the various sects. Which sect in the world doesn¡¯t have a more authentic and profound heritage than your Grand Thousand Dao Sect?¡± Protector Bai Li sneered. ¡°Even the Nine Yang Dao Sect has a Fusion Realm cultivator in charge, whereas your Grand Thousand Dao Sect? doesn¡¯t even have a single Nascent Soul Realm cultivator. You¡¯re nothing but ants.¡±


    ¡°Have you forgotten where your cultivation techniques and spellse from? They didn¡¯t just appear out of thin air, did they?¡± Fang Chen grinned. ¡°Now that the sects no longer venerate the Three Divine Beasts, it¡¯s as if they¡¯ve forgotten their founding ancestors, lost their orthodox heritage, and be no different from ordinary cultivators.¡±


    ¡°The so-called Three Divine Beasts are merely fabrications by those with ulterior motives. The Nine Yang Dao Sect represents the true orthodox lineage of Daoism; we venerate our sect''s founder¡ªa Profound Immortal.¡± A protector retorted angrily.


    ¡°Exactly! The Three Divine Beasts are evil creatures; how could a dignified Dao sect venerate such demonic beings!¡±


    ¡°Protector Bai Li, stop wasting time with him. Just capture him and don¡¯t make the sect elder wait too long.¡±


    Fang Chen¡¯s eyes shed with pity. Perhaps there are still powerful figures within the Dao sects who know about the existence of the Heavenly Abhorrence Technique. This group before him, however, surely knew nothing about what allowed the Dao sects to stand at the peak of the world back then.


    Protector Bai Li nodded slightly. ¡°Indeed, we shouldn¡¯t keep the elder waiting. You all hold the line, and I alone will take him down.¡±


    His hair began to move as if stirred by an unseen wind, and strands of firelight coalesced around him, growing more intense, akin to a zing sun!

 Chapter 592: Did You Not Eat?!

    <h4>Chapter 592: Did You Not Eat?!</h4>


    <i>Fire elemental energy, but it needs to be much more refined.</i> Fang Chen thought


    Most techniques in the world were derived from the five elements. If controlling the five elements was the basic technique, then others were advanced techniques, such as Fireball or Ice Arrow, though they are still considered lower-tier techniques. The higher the tier, the stronger the maniption and enhancement of the five elements.


    In an instant, Protector Bai Li transformed into a zing sun, enveloped in extremely intense fire elemental energy. This aura was stronger than the lightning element power of the Purple Lightning Talisman and was among the top destructive powers within the Golden Core Realm. A slight touch would likely incinerate an ordinary Golden Core Realm cultivator into ashes.


    The surrounding protectors were shocked, and their eyes showed a mix of surprise and envy.


    ¡°He actually mastered the Nine Sun Immortal Incineration?!¡±


    ¡°It is indeed the Nine Sun Immortal Incineration... It seems your senior brother is favored by the sect master.¡± Protector Zhao sneered. ¡°You probably haven¡¯t mastered this technique yourself?¡±


    Hua Qianchi¡¯s expression was very unsightly. He indeed had not mastered this technique; not only had he not mastered it, but he had even asked his master several times, only to be refused. His master had said that this technique was extremely difficult to cultivate and could easily backfire.


    But now, his senior brother had mastered it!


    Hua Qianchi gritted his teeth. ¡°If I had the learned Nine Sun Immortal Incineration earlier, I wouldn¡¯t have lost so badly. These golden ropes wouldn¡¯t have been able to bind me at all."


    ¡°Nine Sun Immortal Incineration.... I didn¡¯t expect that someone among the protectors has already mastered it,¡± another protector said.


    In the distance, Wang Jiang smiled lightly. ¡°This is the Nine Sun Immortal Incineration, the trump card of the Nine Yang Dao Sect. It¡¯s not passed down to anyone but the direct lineage. I believe the next sect master will be this person.¡±


    He nced at Chu Lan and added, ¡°The cultivator you brought is no match for the Nine Sun Immortal Incineration. It¡¯s still not toote for me to step in.¡±


    Chu Lan was silent for a moment before gently shaking her head.


    Seeing Chu Lan¡¯s refusal, Wang Jiang merely smiled and ceased furtherments.


    ***


    ¡°You have only this one chance. Although the sect elder wants to see you, I can¡¯t guarantee your survival,¡± Protector Bai Li said coldly.


    Fang Chen wore a calm smile. ¡°I¡¯ve already said it: if he wants to see me, he shoulde find me himself."


    At that moment, a strange blue light flickered in Fang Chen''s eyes, and the fire elemental energy in the surroundings vanished without a trace! It was as if an invisible barrier had enveloped the area within several miles, where all other elements were bnced, but the fire element waspletely absent!


    The light around Protector Bai Li, akin to a candle me in the wind, suddenly extinguished...!


    Fang Chen remarked with surprise. ¡°Hmm, it seems you haven¡¯t quite mastered this technique? Wait... did you even begin learning it properly?¡±


    The surrounding protectors were also taken aback, their expressions strange. They had heard that the Nine Sun Immortal Incineration was extremely difficult to master, and now it seemed true. Even a powerful figure like Protector Bai Li made a mistake, let alone them.


    Protector Bai Li¡¯s expression darkened as he stirred his inner energy, trying to use the Nine Sun Immortal Incineration again. Despite his efforts, he couldn''t even gather a strand of fire elemental energy, let alone perform the Nine Sun Immortal Incineration.


    From a distance, Wang Jiang¡¯s eyes shed with surprise as he nced at Chu Lan and then at Protector Bai Li, his expression growing thoughtful.<i> Is his mastery over the technique insufficient to fully manifest the </i>Nine Sun Immortal Incineration?


    ¡°No, it can''t be....¡±


    Protector Bai Li''s thoughts raced. He immediately used his control over the five elements to try and gather a trace of fire elemental energy. The result was the same as before; he couldn¡¯t gather any fire elemental energy at all!


    His gaze still fixed on Fang Chen, Protector Bai Li ordered the other protectors, ¡°See if you can channel the fire elemental energy."


    The other protectors were puzzled butplied. To their dismay, they also couldn¡¯t gather any fire elemental energy, just like Protector Bai Li.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?! My control over the five elements has failed? This shouldn¡¯t be possible; I¡¯ve practiced this technique for two hundred years....¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve practiced for three hundred years, and it¡¯s failed too.¡±


    ¡°Is this your doing?¡± Protector Bai Li asked, his face darkening and his eyes flickering with suspicion. ¡°Is it some sort of formation?¡±


    ¡°This has nothing to do with me. I think it¡¯s just that you all haven¡¯t put in enough effort in your cultivation, which led to a breakdown at a critical moment,¡± Fang Chen said. ¡°If you don¡¯t believe me, just look.¡±


    He snapped his fingers, and a small me appeared.


    Protector Bai Li was taken aback, his expression growing even more grim. The other protectors, realizing they had been tricked, tried in vain to channel the fire elemental energy but failed. They were furious, realizing they had been yed.


    The nearby cultivators were confused by the scene, whispering among themselves.


    At that moment, a protector frowned. "Why bother using the Nine Sun Immortal Incineration on him? If you''re toozy to take action, I can handle it for you."


    Protector Bai Li shot him a cold nce, noticing his anger. The other protector immediately gave a forced smile and fell silent.


    Protector Bai Li sneered. "He''s right. I don¡¯t need to use the Nine Sun Immortal Incineration against him."


    He revealed a long sword in his hand that had appeared without anyone noticing.


    "Then why were you showing off your technique just now?" Fang Chen asked, slightly surprised.


    The surrounding protectors¡¯ expressions became strange. Protector Bai Li seemed to have been showing off indeed....


    Protector Zhao showed a mocking smile. "Hah, even at this point, you can¡¯t resist showing off, trying to let everyone know you¡¯ve mastered the Nine Sun Immortal Incineration."


    Hua Qianchi¡¯ fists clenched tightly, his nails digging into his palms without him realizing.


    A sh of anger finally appeared in Protector Bai Li''s eyes. His surging spiritual energy intensified as he wielded his long sword, which gleamed with a cold light, and shot toward Fang Chen with incredible speed.


    This sword was a high-grade, yellow-rank weapon, engraved with a full one hundred and eight Soul Imprints. It was capable of cutting through mountains and seas, and even cultivators of the same level would not dare to be careless in the face of such a weapon, as there was only one possible oue for those who underestimated it.


    In an instant, the flying sword arrived before Fang Chen. The onlookers were eager to see how he would respond, only to be stunned when he simply raised his hand and firmly grasped the sword.


    A smile yed on Fang Chen''s lips. "Did you skip a meal? You have no strength at all."


    Protector Bai Li¡¯s eyes shed with shock. "This... How is this possible?"


    The people watching was equally astonished. Did they see it wrong, or did Fang Chen really catch a high-grade, yellow-rank flying sword with his bare hands? In the face of such a sword, even a mountain would be easily split in two, let alone a mere person!


    Hua Qianchi was also stunned. At this point, he had to admit that this cultivator from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect had extraordinarily bizarre methods. Otherwise, his senior wouldn¡¯t be repeatedly humiliated.


    "Could it be... that you really haven''t eaten anything?" Fang Chen asked in surprise. "What, the prestigious Nine Yang Dao Sect couldn''t even provide you with a full meal? If that''s the case, why note to my Grand Thousand Dao Sect for cultivation? At least you wouldn''t be starving to the point of weakness."


    The crowd¡¯s expressions were strange.


    Seeing Fang Chen mock them so openly, Protector Bai Li finally became truly enraged. He shouted in fury, "Begone!"


    The flying sword in Fang Chen''s hand began to struggle furiously, emitting a shower of sparks. But no matter how it thrashed, it remained firmly in Fang Chen''s grip, unable to break free.


    Fang Chen sighed. "You''re so weary fromck of nutrition. How pitiful...."


    Protector Bai Li''s face turned a sickly green, as though he had just eaten something repugnant. His expression was one of utter disgust.

 Chapter 593: Just Let Him Hang There

    <h4>Chapter 593: Just Let Him Hang There</h4>


    A protector had a grim expression. "Protector Bai Li, his cultivation is not as it appears on the surface. This person is likely also at the grandpletion stage of the Golden Core Realm. It''s not easy to deal with him. We should work together; otherwise...."


    He nced around at the many onlookers, indicating that their actions were drawing unwanted attention. "If we dy too long, the Nine Yang Dao Sect will lose more face. The Elder may already be watching us."


    Although Protector Bai Li did not respond verbally, he tacitly acknowledged the concern.


    In the next moment, nearly a hundred Golden Core Realm cultivators simultaneously tried to use their techniques. However, they found that any techniques rted to the Five Elements were unusable.


    Unbeknownst to them, all the Five Elements power had been isted by Fang Chen.


    Seeing that they couldn''t use their elemental techniques, the group of Golden Core Realm cultivators decided to use their flying swords.


    Fang Chen, within the formation of swords, skillfully maneuvered his body, using the Protector Bai Li''s sword as a weapon to wreak havoc. Within moments, several flying swords were severely damaged, their des shattered into pieces.


    Watching the chaotic scene above, Li Daoye couldn''t help but muse, "Has it really only been twenty years?


    His eyes reflected a mixture of admiration and contemtion. "In the grand scheme of things, twenty years might seem like a small fraction of a cultivator''s life, but for mortals, it could signify significant growth and change."


    For cultivators, twenty years was but a fleeting moment, brief and insubstantial. Many cultivators might not advance even a minor realm in that time. Were it not for the Divination of the Stars, he would still benguishing in the Qi Refining stage.


    "I can calcte the heavens and the earth, but I still can''t match Lord Fang. No wonder he''s a man who''d died once before." Li Daoyan sighed softly, then shifted his tone with a chuckle. "However, aside from Lord Fang, figures like Xia Ji are no match for me. The little nun likely hasn''t reached Foundation Establishment yet. So among these people, I''m second only to one!"


    Everyone thought they would witness an exciting battle, but it unexpectedly devolved into a melee. Truth be told, fighting with flying swords was more dangerous and prone to casualties than dueling with spells, yet it was visually less impressive.


    "What''s going on? Why aren''t the Nine Yang Dao Sect''s protectors using their techniques and instead fighting with flying swords?"


    "Did you notice? The power of the five elements has vanished. I just tried to use the Five Elements Control Technique, but it waspletely useless!"


    "Is that true?"


    People hurriedly tried to cultivate the power of the five elements, but it was evident that the surrounding power of the five elements seemed to have disappeared entirely. They could not use it at all.


    "What kind of method is this? A formation? I''ve heard that many formations can iste the power of the five elements."


    "It seems this person from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect came prepared and had already set up the arrangement before the Nine Yang Dao Sect''s protectors arrived."


    With a soft moan, Qin Xuan opened her eyes, her forehead wrinkling with a frown. "Uh... my head hurts."


    She looked around in confusion, not understanding what was happening around her. After a few breaths she suddenly remembered what had been happening before she was knocked out cold!


    She had been knocked out by a residual shockwave!


    The second to regain consciousness were Qin Nie and Qi Fa. The two exchanged nces, both looking somewhat displeased. The former was the Immortal Qin n''s heir, and thetter was the son of the city lord. For both of them to be knocked out by a shockwave in a battle was quite embarrassing.


    "Young Master, how do you feel?" asked a ck-d cultivator beside them, stepping forward anxiously.


    "No problem." Qin Nie shook his head, his expression darkening as he looked up at the sky.


    When he saw that Fang Chen was being besieged by nearly a hundred Golden Core protectors yet still holding his own, his expression grew even darker.


    Qi Fa stood up, his hands on his hips. ring at the fighting above with dissatisfaction, he spat, "Could this kid be doing this on purpose? Engaging in battle and still dragging us into it?!"


    At his reminder, Qin Xuan finally realized that Fang Chen was in the midst of a fierce battle with the Nine Yang Dao Sect''s protectors. After watching for a moment, she was suddenly astonished. How could the scammer Fang Chen¡¯s methods be so powerful!? Nearly a hundred Nine Yang Dao Sect protectors were still unable to subdue him?


    Fang Chen''s eyes flickered."Is it about time...?"


    In the next moment, a figure shot through the air and, with a casual wave of his hand,pletely separated the two sides.


    "Everyone, this is the Immortal Qin n. Such open fighting in broad daylight shows ack of respect for us."


    The neer was dressed in ck, resembling the attire of He Baiyan and others. Upon seeing the neer''s appearance, the Nine Yang Dao Sect''s protectors immediately recognized him as a high-ranking member of the Immortal Qin n.


    "It¡¯s Guardian Wang," Qin Nie said calmly.


    The ck-d cultivators around looked at Wang Jiang with a hint of reverence. Among the Immortal Qin n¡¯s protectors, there were few with a cultivation level in the Enlightenment Realm, and the one before them was one of those rare figures. At that level, even the Immortal Qin n could not afford to be careless.


    "Senior, how should we address the insult inflicted on the disciples of the Nine Yang Dao Sect?" Protector Bai Li asked Wang Jiang, maintaining an air of both respect and resolve.


    He was determined to regain some face for the Nine Yang Dao Sect, even if he had to settle it himself.


    Wang Jiang sneered, his eyes showing a faint, cold mockery. "This? It''s not worth caring about at all. If you truly want to address it, let Hua Qianchi fulfill his bet."


    "A bet had been made, how can a prominent disciple go back on his word? If your disciplesck even this basic integrity, why are you even out and about? Even if this incident didn¡¯t ur today, your Nine Yang Dao Sect would still attract scorn for other reasons."


    The crowd was slightly taken aback. "A bet?"


    Protector Bai Li¡¯s eyes showed confusion. "May I ask what kind of bet was made, Senior?"


    Hua Qianchi¡¯s face changed dramatically, and he wished he could immediately break free from the golden ropes and flee the scene.


    "He knows best," Wang Jiang said, pointing at Fang Chen.


    Protector Bai Li turned his gaze to Fang Chen, his expression serious. "Fellow Daoist, may I ask what kind of bet this is?"


    "It¡¯s nothing much," replied Fang Chen.


    He smiled and recounted the bet between him and Hua Qianchi. By the time he had mentioned only half of it, the expressions of the Protector Bai Li and others had already changed noticeably.


    After Fang Chen finished speaking, nearly a hundred Nine Yang Dao Sect protectors were eager to leave, feeling the surrounding gazes filled with mockery. Protector Bai Li¡¯s face turned ashen as he slowly turned to Hua Qianchi. ¡°Junior Brother Hua, is what he said true?¡±


    Hua Qianchi forced a weak smile. ¡°Senior Brother... It was just a joke, nothing serious. He¡¯s the one who took it seriously.¡±


    Despite trying to bullshit his way through, Hua Qianchi had already gone limp from fear.


    ¡°I understand,¡± Protector Bai Li said with a nod.


    In the next moment, he transformed into a streak of light and left the scene.


    The other protectors exchanged looks and began to depart, none of them paying any more attention to Hua Qianchi or Protector Zhao.


    Looking at them leaving, Hua Qianchi and Protector Zhao''s expressions shifted from one extreme to another.


    Face flushing with anger, Hua Qianchi cursed inwardly. <i>You truly deserve to die, Bai Lixiao!</i>


    ¡°Thank you, Senior, for speaking up for me,¡± Fang Chen said, cupping his fist in thanks as he looked at Wang Jiang.


    Wang Jiang sneered and turned to leave, ignoring Fang Chen¡¯s gratitude.


    Fang Chen smiled, nced at Hua Qianchi and Protector Zhao, then lightly waved his sleeve. The golden ropes binding Protector Zhao and the others instantly vanished.


    ¡°What is this...¡± Protector Zhao and the others were bewildered.


    ¡°You may leave now,¡± Fang Chen said.


    ¡°And him...¡± Protector Zhao asked, pointing at Hua Qianchi with a strange expression.


    ¡°Him? Just let him hang."


    With that, Fang Chen left with Li Daoyi.

 Chapter 594: Staying Alive

    <h4>Chapter 594: Staying Alive</h4>


    Hua Qianchi''s face was filled with fear. ¡°Get me out of here, Protector Zhao!¡±


    <i>Leave me hanging?</i>


    Seeing the attitude of Protector Bai Li and others, he knew that if he couldn''t leave today, he might be publicly humiliated for a long time toe! He could not endure such disgrace.


    ¡°s...¡± Protector Zhao sighed softly. ¡°You¡¯re truly foolish. Do you understand what mistake you¡¯ve made?¡±


    Hua Qianchi gritted his teeth. ¡°If I fulfilled the bet, I¡¯d have been the sinner of the Nine Yang Dao Sect.¡±


    Protector Zhao shook his head gently. ¡°What you did right was not fulfilling the bet. What you did wrong was making such a bet lightly without knowing the person''s background. Even with thebined efforts of Protector Bai Li and others, they still couldn¡¯t take him down.


    "Can¡¯t you see the pattern? His background is not simple; he¡¯s definitely not just a mere cultivator from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect.¡±


    He paused. ¡°I can¡¯t take you away today. I fear I might end up staying here with you if I do. Don¡¯t me me.¡±


    By the time Hua Qianchi realized it, Protector Zhao and his people had already left.


    ¡°You guys...!¡±


    Hua Qianchi spat out a mouthful of blood in anger, his face growing increasingly haggard.


    ¡°Senior Hua is so pitiful... This is too much...¡± Qin Xuan''s face turned pale as she looked at Qin Nie. ¡°Brother Nie, can we find a way to save Senior Hua?¡±


    ¡°Saving him is simple, but...¡± Qin Nie shook his head, ¡°the Nine Yang Dao Sect is already aware of this matter, and it should be up to them to decide what to do. If we act on our own, we might end up making things worse despite our good intentions.¡±


    ¡°Indeed, the Nine Yang Dao Sect has lost face this time. They need to restore it themselves; we shouldn''t interfere.¡± Qi Fa nodded. He then cursed softly, ¡°I was caught in the coteral for no reason! How bad could my luck be!¡±


    Qi Fa instinctively touched his fingers, but his face went pale when he realized something. He looked at Qin Nie with rm. ¡°My storage ring has been stolen!¡±


    The realization that his storage ring had been stolen caused a stir among Qin Xuan and the others. This was a serious problem. Qi Fa¡¯s status was significant, and if his storage ring was stolen within the boundaries of the Immortal Qin n, it could lead to the Azure Dao Manor Lord questioning them!


    The next moment, they all discovered their storage rings were also missing. Many people realized that their storage rings had vanished after the incident. Comints and curses filled the Immortal Origin District.


    ¡°Young Master Qi Fa, don¡¯t worry. I will help you find this little thief,¡± Qin Nie reassured him.


    He peered down at his own ring, promptly his expression to stiffen.


    <i>It''s gone! My storage ring is also missing?!</i>


    Qin Nie¡¯s expression turned grim. The ring contained something extremely valuable and important to him!


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Your storage ring is missing too? It must have been taken while we were unconscious due to the aftershocks! The thief probably hasn¡¯t left yet. Immediately order people to seal off the area and catch this thief. I want to make him pay!¡± Qi Fa roared angrily.


    Qin Nie was tongue-tied. Finally, he turned to the ck-d cultivators around him. ¡°When we were unconscious, was anyone near us?¡±


    ¡°We noticed something was wrong and immediately stood guard by the young masters. If there was indeed a thief, they should have been among the patrons in the tea house with the young masters at that time,¡± the ck-d cultivator said, frowning in analysis.


    ¡°Could it be that scammer? He¡¯s the one who caused us to be affected by the aftershocks,¡± Qin Xuan said angrily. ¡°I want to find him and get some answers!¡±


    Qin Nie stopped Qin Xuan. ¡°Wait.¡±


    Seeing her puzzled expression, he took a deep breath and said slowly, ¡°I¡¯ll handle this. After all, he was invited here by your mother. If you keep causing trouble, it might upset her.¡±


    ¡°Thank you for the reminder, Brother Nie."


    ¡°There are other suspects besides him....¡±


    ncing around, Qin Nie whispered a few words to the ck-d cultivators beside him, then hurried off to catch up with Fang Chen and the others.


    ***


    At the Qin residence.


    Chu Lan looked anxious. The maids and servants around her couldn¡¯t help but sigh inwardly. They knew that the troubles caused by Young Master Qin Feng were making the First Lady distressed during this time.


    ¡°First Lady, they have returned,¡± a servant reported.


    Chu Lan gave aposed nod. ¡°Please, let them in.¡±


    Standing behind her, He Baiyan hesitated to speak.¡°First Lady....¡±


    ¡°He Baiyan, you¡¯ve disappointed me,¡± Chu Lan said softly.


    He Baiyan¡¯s expression changed. Many words of exnation were on the tip of his tongue but remained unsaid, ultimately turning into a forced chuckle.


    ¡°Knowing that Young Master Fang was myst hope, you repeatedly went against him due to your own views on the matter,¡± Chu Lan growled. ¡°I asked you to follow them because I was worried about their safety. Why didn¡¯t you intervene before they made the bet? Why wait until the bet was almost over to inform me?¡±


    ¡°First Lady, I didn¡¯t want you to be deceived,¡± He Baiyan said with a forced chuckle.


    ¡°Do you think I¡¯m truly that foolish?¡±


    Chu Lan¡¯s tone was cold.


    ¡°That¡¯s not it... First Lady, you are worried about your son and thus confused,¡± He Baiyan stated, shaking his head.


    ¡°Leave now. Take this time to think carefully, ande back only when you¡¯ve made up your mind. If you don¡¯te back, it¡¯s fine. If I can¡¯t resolve Feng¡¯er¡¯s troubles at the council, I probably won¡¯t stay with the Immortal Qin n any longer,¡± Chu Lan said, waving her sleeve lightly.


    He Baiyan stiffened slightly. After a moment of silence, he sped his hands and bowed. ¡°Then I will take my leave.¡±


    As he left the hall, he happened to cross paths with Fang Chen and the others. He Baiyan nced at Fang Chen, his eyes filled with undisguised killing intent.


    ¡°Daoist Fang, it seems Daoist He wants to devour you,¡± Li Daoye said with a smile.


    ¡°Let him be,¡± Fang Chen said with a chuckle, shaking his head.


    Fang Chen entered the hall.


    Chu Lan forced a smile upon seeing the two. After some casual conversation, she found an excuse to send Li Daoye away.


    Once Li Daoye had left, Chu Lan¡¯s expression became serious. With a mix of anticipation and anxiety, she looked at Fang Chen and asked, ¡°Daoist Fang did you...¡±


    ¡°Fortunately, I have not failed my mission." Fang Chen took out a storage ring and handed it to Chu Lan. ¡°The Three Sr Fruit is inside.¡±


    Chu Lan¡¯s hands trembled slightly as she received the ring. She immediately checked its contents and indeed found the Three Sr Fruit. At that moment, her long-held grievances found an outlet, and her eyes reddened instantly, her voice tinged with a hint of tears. ¡°Thank you, Daoist Fang.¡±


    Fang Chen sighed softly in his heart, thinking that perhaps all mothers were the same.


    ¡°First Lady, it¡¯s best to wait until the council to present the Three Sr Fruit. It will be more effective then,¡± Fang Chen advised.


    Chu Lan was puzzled. ¡°Why? If I give the Three Sr Fruit to the ancestor now, wouldn¡¯t the issue be resolved?¡±


    Fang Chen smiled faintly. ¡°If we can¡¯t unearth key figures from the Spirit Blood Sect, this time it¡¯s the Three Sr Fruit, next time it might be the Four Sr Fruit, or even the Five Sr Fruit. Can you truly be at ease?¡±


    Chu Lan was silent for a few moments before nodding gently. ¡°I will follow your advice.¡±


    After a pause, her eyes showed a trace of concern. ¡°Qin Nie will likely be suspicious of you.¡±


    ¡°Yes, he will be suspicious, but he won¡¯t be able to determine anything. That¡¯s for the best. Given the circumstances, I don¡¯t believe he¡¯ll abandon his ns. As long as he suspects me, he will try various methods to probe me before the council. This will allow some of his associates to naturally reveal themselves.¡±


    Chu Lan smiled and nodded. ¡°Then I wish you sess."


    ¡°First Lady, Young Master Qin Nie has arrived!¡±


    The two exchanged a look, not surprised by the announcement.

 Chapter 595: The Radiant Sun Spirit Monarch

    <h4>Chapter 595: The Radiant Sun Spirit Monarch</h4>


    A maid led Qin Nie into the hall. He bowed respectfully to Chu Lan and then turned his gaze to Fang Chen. ¡°Fellow Daoist, earlier at the Immortal Origin District, you shed with the protectors of the Nine Yang Dao Sect, and the aftershocks affected us.¡±


    ¡°Is that so? I didn¡¯t really notice. Did Young Master Qin Nie sustain any injuries?¡± Fang Chen asked, feigning surprise as he examined Qin Nie.


    Qin Nie forced a smile and shook his head slightly. ¡°There were no serious injuries, but we were knocked unconscious by the aftershocks.¡±


    ¡°Daoist Fang, you should be more cautious next time,¡± Chu Lan said with a hint of reproach.


    Fang Chen nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll definitely be more cautious in the future.¡±


    ¡°I wonder if Daoist Fang has seen our storage rings?¡± Qin Nie asked casually. ¡°When we woke up, we discovered that our storage rings had disappeared."


    ¡°I didn¡¯t pay much attention to it. It¡¯s possible that someone took advantage of the chaos. Such incidents are quitemon. Young Master Qin Nie should be more careful in the future and avoid crowded ces,¡± Fang Chen said, shaking his head.


    Qin Nie sighed. ¡°To be honest, the items in Young Master Qi Fa¡¯s storage ring are quite valuable. If they cannot be recovered, the Azure Dao Manor Lord will likely pin the me on someone. There could be esctions.¡±


    ¡°Nie¡¯er, quickly have the family¡¯s cultivators investigate to see who would dare to take advantage of the situation and rob you,¡± Chu Lan advised.


    Qin Nie nced at Chu Lan and then at Fang Chen, deciding to be straightforward, ¡°When we lost consciousness, Daoist Fang was nearby. Young Master Qi suspects Daoist Fang of being involved.¡±


    Before Fang Chen could respond, Chu Lan stepped forward, her expression calm but stern. ¡°Nie¡¯er, are you doubting the integrity of the guest I invited?¡±


    Qin Nie sighed. ¡°First Lady, it¡¯s not me who doubts but Young Master Qi. I¡¯m left with no choice."


    ¡°And what does he want you to do?¡± Chu Lan asked.


    ¡°He wants to personally search Daoist Fang and inspect his storage ring,¡± Qin Nie said softly. ¡°This would confirm that Daoist Fang is not that kind of shameless thief and provide an exnation to Young Master Qi.¡±


    ¡°A search, you say? That can be arranged,¡± Chu Lan said, nodding as she slowly extended her arms. ¡°Search me first, then Daoist Fang.¡±


    Qin Nie was taken aback, and he grew conflicted. Finally, he said in a low voice, ¡°First Lady, this is a highly sensitive matter. Please, don¡¯t do this.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean? If you privately criticize my guest, I might choose to ignore it. But now, Nie¡¯er has personallye to use him of theft and demands a search. Isn¡¯t this just pping me in the face? Although I, Chu Lan, am not a direct member of the Immortal Qin n, I will never allow others to trample on me and insult me at will.


    "If you must conduct a search, then search me first, then Daoist Fang. It would be best to call my husband as well and conduct the search in his presence."


    Chu Lan''s stance was firm.


    Qin Nie was silent for a few moments before cupping his fist. ¡°I was being impolite. I¡¯ll take my leave now.¡±


    With that, Qin Nie left. Though he was reluctant, he had no other options.


    ncing at Fang Chen, Chu Lan¡¯s lips curved into a slight triumphant smile. For the first time, Fang Chen noticed a hint of yfulness in her demeanor, possibly due to the resolution of Qin Feng¡¯s issue, which had lifted the despondence in her heart.


    Chu Lan smiled. ¡°Daoist Fang, what do you n to do next?¡±


    ¡°Observe and wait for developments."


    ¡°Observe and wait?¡±


    Chu Lan nodded, not pressing further. She had no desire to get involved in these matters. With the Three Sr Fruit found, she was even less inclined to have any further dealings with the Spirit Blood Sect.


    ¡°Earlier, our agreement was for a hundred mid-grade spirit stones in exchange for the whereabouts of the Three Sr Fruit. Now that you¡¯ve risked so much to retrieve it for me, here are an additional hundred mid-quality spirit stones. Please ept them.¡±


    Chu Lan¡¯s delicate hand opened to reveal a neatly stacked pile of mid-grade spirit stones. Each one was perfectly uniform, about the size of a thumbnail.


    Seeing Fang Chen remain silent, Chu Lan assumed he found the amount insufficient and exined with a wry smile, ¡°I¡¯ve inquired and found that even for a single Three Sr Fruit, cultivators would be willing to pay up to a thousand mid-grade spirit stones. I know two hundred is a modest amount, but this is all I can offer. Please don¡¯t find itcking.¡±


    Fang Chen smiled and thought about how to use the spirit stones.


    Although the Realm of Three Thousand Dao was excellent, it required five hundred mid-grade spirit stones to allow him entry. Since mid-grade spirit stones are far more valuable than low-quality spirit stones, gathering five hundred of them was quite challenging.


    Fang Chen epted the spirit stones and casually asked, ¡°First Lady, if I want to purchase a Profound spiritual treasure, where should I go?¡±


    Chu Lan was relieved that Fang Chen epted the spirit stones. However, she revealed an expression of surprise when she heard his question.


    ¡°Daoist Fang, Profound rank treasures are incredibly precious and in high demand. If you wish to purchase one, you would need to go directly to the Artifact Master¡¯s residence. The only Artifact Master in the Immortal Qin n region capable of crafting Profound spiritual treasures is an elder from the Nine Yang Dao Sect....¡±


    Fang Chen was somewhat surprised. He asked a few more questions and discovered that whether in the Azure Dao Manor or other regions of the Central Continent, Profound spiritual treasures were not sold by ordinary merchants. They were typically avable only directly from Artifact Masters, and the purchase depended on connections.


    Artifact Masters who could craft Profound Rank weapons usually didn''t entertain strangers. Since Fang Chen had recently offended the Nine Yang Dao Sect, the possibility of buying a Profound Rank weapon from them was zero.


    ¡°Daoist Fang, my n, the Chu n, knows an Artifact Master named the Kun Hai Sage. He resides on the Red Mist Ind in the Immortal Demonic Sea. If you truly wish to purchase a Profound spiritual treasure, you might have some luck there.¡±


    Chu Lan handed a jade slip to Fang Chen. ¡°This jade token represents the Chu n. Although Kun Hai Sage may not necessarily agree to assist you, at least he won''t immediately drive you away.¡±


    Fang Chen epted the jade slip. ¡°Thank you, First Lady.¡±


    After a few more inquiries, he confirmed that there were only four Artifact Masters capable of crafting Profound spiritual treasures within Azure Dao Manor. Besides the one from the Nine Yang Dao Sect, the other three had poor rtions with the Immortal Qin n.


    Returning to his chambers, Fang Chen¡¯s soul left his body once again and arrived at Qin Nie''s courtyard. In addition to the Golden Core Realm disciple of the Spirit Blood Sect stationed by Qin Nie near Chu Lan, there were several more figures in the courtyard, including Foundation Building Realm, Golden Core Realm, and one Nascent Soul Realm cultivator.


    ¡°Everyone, please make sure to retrieve the storage rings within seven days,¡± Qin Nie said with a nk expression.


    The others exchanged nces. The Nascent Soul cultivator furrowed his brow and scrutinized Qin Nie.


    ¡°Qin Nie, did you really carry the Three Sr Fruit with you?¡± the Nascent Soul cultivator asked.


    Qin Nie nodded lightly.


    A hint of anger shed in the Nascent Soul cultivator''s eyes. ¡°This item is extremely important. Why didn¡¯t you entrust it to me for safekeeping?¡±


    ¡°It is safest with me,¡± Qin Nie said coldly. ¡°This is my test and cannot bepromised.¡±


    The Nascent Soul cultivator sneered. ¡°Cannot bepromised? Now even the storage rings are lost. If this affects the test, it might disappoint the Radiant Sun Spirit Monarch.¡±


    The Radiant Sun Spirit Monarch?


    Fang Chen''s eyes flickered. Immortal Void Rush once said that in the Spirit Blood Sect, Spirit Monarch was a title for cultivators in the Middle Three Realms.

 Chapter 596: Arrival of the Nine Yang Envoy

    Looking at the Nascent Soul Realm cultivator standing before him, Qin Nie''s eyes were cold yet confident. "Surpassing Dragon Battle General, my trial will not fail, and I will not disappoint the Radiant Sun Spirit Monarch. I only hope that you all will cooperate with me to find the thief who stole the storage rings."


    Hearing Qin Nie¡¯s confident tone, the others were surprised. They only knew part of the details of this mission because it was entirely under Qin Nie''s control, as assigned by the Radiant Sun Spirit Monarch.


    "By the way, Surpassing Dragon Battle General, do not think that passing this trial will allow me to rece you in the Immortal Qin n¡¯s position. The scope of my vision is far beyond this small ce," Qin Nie added.


    Surpassing Dragon Battle General, the Nascent Soul cultivator, fell silent for a moment before slowly nodding. "I will cooperate with you and try to find this thief."


    "Also, keep an eye on the person brought back by Chu Lan. He is the prime suspect," Qin Nie instructed.


    "I will monitor him," replied the ck-d Golden Core Realm cultivator stationed next to Chu Lan.


    "Be cautious. Don¡¯t let him notice you. His cultivation is not as simple as it appears; it is far superior to yours," Qin Nie added.


    Fang Chen stood by, quietly observing. The mention of the Radiant Sun Spirit Monarch was crucial information, indicating that this mission was arranged by a Spirit Monarch and executed by Qin Nie. As a cultivator in the grandpletion stage of the Foundation Building Realm, Qin Nie was tasked with such a scheme, which was likely closely rted to the Radiant Sun Spirit Monarch.


    <em>Is his confidence genuine, or is he just pretending to believe that the loss of the Three Sr Fruit won¡¯t affect this n?</em>Fang Chen scrutinized Qin Nie¡¯s face in an attempt to find any clues from his expression. After a long observation, Fang Chen couldn''t reach a conclusion. Qin Nie''s confidence seemed very natural. It didn''t seem like he was acting at all.


    "Qin Nie, if there¡¯s anything else that needs to be said, you should do so now. It¡¯s not good for me to stay here too long," Surpassing Dragon Battle General said.


    "After seven days, there will be a council meeting. Once the meeting is over, I want to see the person from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect in front of me," Qin Nie growled. "I¡¯m very interested in some of the techniques and skills he possesses."


    "Just a small matter," replied Surpassing Dragon Battle General.


    With that, he turned and left.


    The others also took their leave one after another. After they departed, Qin Nie did not see anyone else and instead returned to the quiet room to meditate and cultivate.


    Surpassing Dragon Battle General moved through the Immortal Qin Manor with apparent familiarity and soon arrived at a secluded courtyard.


    "Master, the injury to Young Master Nie is not severe; he was only affected by the residual energy," reported the Surpassing Dragon Battle General , standing respectfully before the head of the Immortal Qin n.


    "That¡¯s good to hear." the Immortal Qin n nodded. "Surpassing Dragon Battle General, after the council meeting, there will be a resolution regarding the matters between the Immortal Qin n and the Langya tribe. Regardless of the oue, I hope you can take Feng¡¯er andy low outside."


    "Master, if the Ancestor finds out about this, he may be furious, and your position might be affected."


    "I can''t worry about that now. Although I''m the head of the Immortal Qin n, I don''t even have the authority to deal with my own son. Being the head of the family is rather meaningless; I''m just a messenger for the old fellows in the family," the Immortal Qin n head said with a wry smile. "As for you, if you handle this matter, it might bring trouble upon yourself. You can consider it carefully. If you¡¯re unwilling, I won¡¯t me you; I¡¯ll find someone else to take care of it."


    "Since a few hundred years ago, I¡¯ve been the head¡¯s scribe. Thanks to your support, I am where I am today. I am deeply grateful and willing to take on this task," Surpassing Dragon Battle General responded.


    "Good," the Immortal Qin n head said with a pleased smile, patting Surpassing Dragon Battle General on the shoulder.


    After Surpassing Dragon Battle General left, the Immortal Qin n head stood silently in the courtyard, lost in thought.


    Fang Chen was somewhat surprised. He had thought the Immortal Qin n head was unwilling to intervene in Qin Feng¡¯s matters. However, it seemed that the head had already nned to secretly send Qin Feng away.


    Unfortunately, the Immortal Qin n head was unaware that Surpassing Dragon Battle General was a cultivator of the Spirit Blood Sect. Though not directly under Qin Nie, he was aligned with the same faction. If Surpassing Dragon Battle General were to escort Qin Feng, it would mean certain death for Qin Feng on the way.


    However...


    With the Three Sr Fruit in hand, all problems could be resolved, and the Spirit Blood Sect''s ns woulde to naught.


    As Fang Chen¡¯s divine soul returned to his body, he pondered silently. This time, Qin Nie had exposed several Spirit Blood Sect cultivators, including those of the Battle General level. It remained to be seen whether more Spirit Blood Sect members would reveal themselves after the council meeting.


    As the days passed, the atmosphere within the Immortal Qin Manor became increasingly tense, with everyone wearing a heavy expression, whether genuine or feigned.


    Fang Chen and Li Daoye were rxing in the courtyard, basking in the sun and enjoying fruit that a maid had brought them.


    Suddenly, Qin Xuan stormed over, angrily grabbing the fruit tray and throwing it to the ground! She furiously ordered the surrounding maids to step aside.


    "Young Lady Qin Xuan, what is the meaning of this!?" Li Daoye eximed. "Have these fruits offended you in some way? Throwing them on the ground is a waste!"


    Qin Xuan was momentarily taken aback. After a pause, she shouted furiously, "Get out of the way! this is none of your business!"


    Li Daoye quicklyplied, swiftly picking up the scattered fruit and moving to the side.


    The maid wore a troubled expression. "Young Lady, Young Master Fang and Young Master Li are thedy''s esteemed guests. You¡­."


    "Get lost!" Qin Xuan snapped, forcefully sweeping her sleeve, sending the maid tumbling aside with a gust of wind.


    "Young Lady Qin Xuan, why such a temper?" Fang Chen asked calmly.


    "How dare you ask me that! You deceived my mother about the whereabouts of the Three Sr Fruit, and now look at the situation! The council is tomorrow, and after the council, my brother will be dealt with by the old ancestor.


    "Where is the Three Sr Fruit? Where is it?! Don''t think just because you have a bit of skill, you can act recklessly in the Immortal Qin Manor! If I wanted, I could easily summon a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator to crush you!"


    Qin Xuan clenched her teeth, barely restraining herself from taking immediate action against Fang Chen. She knew she was outmatched and that her mother was protecting him, which left her feeling immensely frustrated.


    "If you''re so concerned about the First Lady, Young Lady Qin Xuan, why not go speak to her directly and see what she has to say, instead of taking it out on me?" Fang Chen said with a smile, shaking his head.


    "My mother has beenpletely deceived by you. She keeps repeating the same thing, telling me to wait! But the council is tomorrow. How can I wait?" Qin Xuan''s eyes suddenly welled up with tears. "My mother loves my brother the most. If anything happens to him, my mother will be devastated!"


    At that moment, a figure approached slowly. It was the pale and haggard Qin Feng. He looked like he hadn¡¯t seen sunlight in a long time, his face ashen and devoid of color.


    "Little Sister, don''t trouble Young Master Fang. I can see that mother seems to have rxed a bit these days. Whether Young Master Fang is deceiving her or not, it''s at least a positive sign," Qin Feng said softly, standing in front of Qin Xuan.


    "You''re also calling him Young Master Fang now? Does he deserve that title?" Qin Xuan retorted, her frustration evident.


    Qin Xuan took a deep breath, her gaze icy as she stared at Qin Feng. "Qin Feng, if you weren¡¯t my brother, I¡¯d beat you right now. You are the cause of all this mess. I¡¯ve already sent people to find Langya Yu. No matter the oue of the council, she won¡¯t make it through what happens."


    Qin Feng¡¯s expression changed slightly, his voice rising a few notches. "Don¡¯t trouble her. This is all my doing. She¡¯s not involved!"


    Qin Xuanughed lightly. "It¡¯s toote. My people have already captured her. Tomorrow, you¡¯ll see her at the council. If you¡¯re lucky, she might take the me for you. That would be the best oue."


    She nced at Fang Chen. "And you. After tomorrow, my mother wille to her senses, and I¡¯ll deal with you then."


    With that, Qin Xuan left, leaving Qin Feng standing there in a daze.


    Li Daoye took a big bite of an apple. ncing at Qin Xuan and then at Qin Feng, he couldn¡¯t help but shake his head. "Compared to you and your sister, these two are truly troublesome."


    At that moment, a young servant approached nervously. He cast furtive looks at Qin Feng. "Young Master Fang, someone wants to see you. It¡¯s a Daoist from the Nine Yang Dao Sect."

 Chapter 597: He’s From the Great Expansion Dao Gate

    ¡°Fellow Daoist Fang, be careful. I¡¯ve heard that Dao Sects have many strange techniques. Don¡¯t fall into their traps,¡± Li Daoye said with a warning look.


    Fang Chen smiled. ¡°It¡¯s fine. Will you apany me?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need for that.¡± Li Daoye shook his head lightly and nced at Qin Feng. ¡°I¡¯m concerned about Qin Feng. I¡¯ll stay behind to keep an eye on things.¡±


    Qin Feng seemed oblivious to their conversation, his gaze unfocused.


    With that, Fang Chen followed the young servant outside.


    The Nine Yang Dao Sect hadn¡¯t sent anyone in recent days, and Hua Qianchi remained at the Immortal Origin District. That indicated a significant shift in the Nine Yang Dao Sect''s attitude, likely due to concerns about their reputation worsening.


    In the reception hall, Bai Lixiao stood solemnly in front of the door, silent and unmoving. His expression changed slightly when he saw Fang Chen approaching.


    Fang Chen smiled, offering a bow. ¡°Ah, it¡¯s Protector Bai Li.¡±


    The fact that the Nine Yang Dao Sect sent a Golden Core cultivator indicated their intention to negotiate.¡°Fellow Daoist Fang, I heard that you are a disciple of Daoist Hong Qing?¡± Bai Lixiao said. ¡°I¡¯ve also heard that the Grand Thousand Dao Sect absorbed the Profound Ghost Dao Sect with your help not long ago?¡±


    ¡°Indeed, the Nine Yang Dao Sect, as the leading Dao Sect of the Immortal Qin n, knows things clearly even a little over a monthter,¡± Fang Chen praised.


    Bai Lixiao''s expression shifted slightly as he detected the underlying sarcasm in Fang Chen¡¯s words. His attempt to intimidate had not only failed but had been turned around to mock the Nine Yang Dao Sect for its poormunication.


    ¡°It¡¯s no wonder you mention the Three Thousand Dao Sect. Daoist Hong Qing was constantly proiming that he had obtained the true teachings of the Three Thousand Dao Sect and aimed to clear the name of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect, which led to his disappearance and unknown whereabouts.


    ¡°He even imed to have met an elder from the Three Thousand Dao Sect who was still alive. Isn¡¯t thatughable?¡±


    Bai Lixiao smiled.


    ¡°I advise you to be cautious with your words in the future. While the Nine Yang Dao Sect might not be overly concerned, some Dao Sects are quite sensitive about such matters. Bringing up the Three Thousand Dao Sect could bring trouble to the Grand Thousand Dao Sect.¡±


    Fang Chen¡¯s expression remained unchanged, but his mind was in turmoil. This remark revealed an extremely important piece of information. Daoist Hong Qing had likely encountered Elder Yun He!


    Bai Lixiao watched Fang Chen¡¯s expression closely, seemingly trying to discern something. However, Fang Chen merely smiled and shifted the topic. ¡°Protector Bai Li, what brings you here today?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m here to fulfill the promise made by Junior Brother Hua,¡± Bai Lixiao said, slowly taking out two hundred mid-grade spirit stones. ¡°I hope you will ept these spirit stones and consider this matter settled.¡±


    Fang Chen nodded and epted the spirit stones, cing them inside his ring. ¡°Certainly.¡±


    He now had a total of three hundred mid-grade spirit stones.


    ¡°Fellow Daoist Fang, Elder Fang has asked me to inquire if you would be interested in visiting the Nine Yang Dao Sect as a guest?¡± Bai Lixiao continued.


    Bai Lixiao''s true purpose for visiting became clear as he expressed his interest in discussing matters rted to Daoist Hong Qing with Fang Chen. ¡°Elder Fang wishes to get to know you. He hasn¡¯t met Daoist Hong Qing in a long time and hopes you have time for a chat, considering you¡¯re his disciple.¡±


    Fang Chen nodded. ¡°Alright, that¡¯s not a problem. After I deal with matters here, I will make a trip down to your Nine Yang Dao Sect.¡±


    Having received Fang Chen¡¯s agreement, Bai Lixiao departed and immediately sent a message to Elder Fang: <em>Fang Chen will note to the Nine Yang Dao Sect as a guest at this moment.</em>


    Upon leaving the Immortal Qin Manor, Bai Lixiao went to the Immortal Origin District and found Hua Qianchi, whose golden ropes had now vanished. Hua Qianchi, appearing disoriented and uncertain, looked up at Bai Lixiao with a mixture of shame and anger.


    "Junior Brother Hua, return to the sect," Bai Lixiao instructed calmly.


    Hua Qianchi''s eyes finally focused on Bai Lixiao, and his expression softened as he felt a mix of residual anger and resignation.


    "Senior Brother Bai Li, why was I subjected to such humiliation for days?" Hua Qianchi asked, his voice tinged with frustration.


    "It was Elder Fang''s intention. He hoped this experience would help you temper your temperament. As the leading young disciple of the Nine Yang Dao Sect, your talent and potential are highly regarded by the elders. They want to ensure you don¡¯t continue to act recklessly," Bai Lixiao exined with a hint of derision. "They do not wish to see their substantial resources wasted on someone who might perish carelessly."


    Hua Qianchi''s anger seemed to dissipate, whether through suppression or genuine understanding, and he fell silent for a few moments.


    "What about Fang Chen?"


    "The time is not yet right," Bai Lixiao replied vaguely.


    Without further exnation, he departed swiftly.


    ring in the direction of the Immortal Qin Manor, Hua Qianchi rose into the air and followed behind Bai Lixiao.


    When the cultivators in the Immortal Origin District saw what happened, they could guess that the Nine Yang Dao Sect finally apologized to the mysterious expert from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect and felt slightly impressed. After all, the Nine Yang Dao Sect was a powerful faction and could send many more experts to bring Hua Qianchi away.


    Fang Chen¡¯s divine soul followed the two and he eventually arrived at an immortal mountain shrouded in white mist.


    The mist wasn¡¯t actually made from water vapor, but it was formed due to the dense spiritual energy.


    Following them past the formation that protected their sect, Fang Chen arrived in a hall. A figure was currently lighting some incense with his back towards Hua Qianchi.


    Bai Lixiao cupped his fist. ¡°Elder Fang, Junior Brother Hua is back.¡±


    Hua Qianchi lowered his head and didn¡¯t utter a sound.


    Fang Chen nced at the statue the incense was directed to and saw that it was a middle-aged man. Without surprise, he was the ancestor of the Nine Yang Dao Sect. There wasn¡¯t a single Dao Sect that would offer incense to anything rted to the Three Divine Beasts.


    When Elder Fang was done, he turned around and smiled at Hua Qianchi. ¡°Do you know your mistakes?¡±


    ¡°I do,¡± Hua Qianchi replied in a low voice.


    ¡°That¡¯s good. Go ahead and continue to cultivate since you learned from your mistakes,¡± Elder Fang said before waving his hand to dismiss him.


    Hua Qianchi¡¯s surprise was palpable as he faced a surprisingly lenient reaction from Elder Fang. After receiving this unexpected light treatment, he bowed deeply. ¡°Disciple will take this lesson to heart and continue to cultivate diligently.¡±


    ¡°Why haven''t you thanked Elder Fang?¡± Bai Lixiao berated.


    "Thank you, Elder Fang!"


    Hua Qianchi quickly cupped his fist and bowed. He then left the Dao Pce with a look of uncertainty, noticing that Bai Lixiao remained behind. A trace of jealousy flickered in his eyes.


    "What do you think? Do you believe that Daoist Fang is a disciple of Daoist Hong Qing?" Elder Fang asked with a faint smile.


    "Probably not. When I mentioned Daoist Hong Qing, his expression showed no change at all. Even when I subtly brought up the disappearance of Daoist Hong Qing, he didn''t react," Bai Lixiao said, shaking his head slightly.


    "Heh, it seems I was right. Hees from the Great Expansion Dao Gate," Elder Fang said with conviction. "No wonder you had trouble with him; the Great Expansion Dao Gate is now under the Celestial Court, with an Immortal King inmand."


    The Great Expansion Dao Gate?


    Fang Chen revealed a strange look on his face. It seemed that the reputation of the Great Expansion Dao Gate had reached even the Azure Dao Manor.


    "But why would they think Ie from the Great Expansion Dao Gate?" Fang Chen wondered.


    "Elder Fang, you think he''s someone from the Great Expansion Dao Gate?" Bai Lixiao asked with some suspicion.


    Elder Fang nodded. "The Great Expansion Dao Gate has suppressed Daoist Hong Qing. It seems the Great Expansion Dao Gate could not extract any useful information from him, so they sent someone to impersonate his disciple in an attempt to find something rted to the Three Thousand Dao Sect from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect."

 Chapter 598: Council Meeting

    Elder Fang''s words left both Bai Lixiao and Fang Chen astonished.


    <em>The Great Expansion Dao Gate? The missing Daoist Hong Qing was actually being suppressed by the Great Expansion Dao Gate?</em>


    Fang Chen''s expression turned peculiar. Compared to the Great Expansion Dao Gate, the Grand Thousand Dao Sect was like an antpared to a giant elephant. The giant elephant would never intentionally crush an ant unless it obstructed its path.


    From the clues given, Fang Chen concluded that this was rted to the Three Thousand Dao Sect. The Great Expansion Dao Gate had to believe that Daoist Hong Qing or the Grand Thousand Dao Sect possessed something they desired.


    <em>Could it be rted to the Realm of Three Thousand Dao?</em> Fang Chen pondered.


    "Bai Lixiao, was Daoist Hong Qing truly suppressed by the Great Expansion Dao Gate? I remember that before he disappeared, he had a meeting with you. You two were quite close, weren¡¯t you?" Bai Lixiao asked with a strange expression.


    Elder Fang sighed softly. "Yes, my rtionship with Hong Qing was indeed good. Otherwise, he wouldn''t have told me about meeting a surviving elder of the Three Thousand Dao Sect. If someone from the Dao Sect could meet such a figure, they would likely gain immense immortal fortune."


    "What!?" Bai Lixiao''s face showed horror. "Elder Fang, those words... Are they not just ramblings?"


    "Well, not entirely true, nor entirely false. There are rumors of an elder from the Three Thousand Dao Sect who failed to be a teaching ancestor after turning into a Loose Immortal. Yet, his residual soul survived and roams the world, sometimes lucid, sometimes confused. asionally, when he encounters someone with a connection to the Dao Sect, he might pass down a few techniques."¡°However, some of the techniques have be obsolete in this era,¡± Elder Fang said with a faint smile. ¡°Hong Qing was fortunate to have met this elder and even imed to have been taught a divine art that, if mastered, would ensure advancement into the Middle Three Realms. Because of this, he has been determined to restore the Grand Thousand Dao Sect to its former glory and assert that their lineage is the true orthodox one.¡±


    ¡°The Three Thousand Dao Sect... did it really exist?¡± Bai Lixiao asked, looking somewhat lost.


    ¡°We¡¯ve only lived a few years. How can we know for sure about events so ancient?¡± Elder Fang replied with a smile. ¡°However, anyone who mentions the Three Thousand Dao Sect now is essentially opposing all Dao Sects, as it is rumored that our roots trace back to the Three Thousand Dao Sect.


    ¡°If someone ims that the Three Thousand Dao Sect is the true orthodox sect, what does that make us? Traitors?


    ¡°Hong Qing was quite foolish in this regard. If not for having been suppressed by the Great Expansion Dao Gate, he would have eventually brought disaster to the Grand Thousand Dao Sect.¡±


    ¡°Elder Fang, did the Great Expansion Dao Gate suppress Daoist Hong Qing because of the inheritance left by that elder? But how could they know about it...?¡± Bai Lixiao asked, puzzled.


    Elder Fang¡¯s face showed a profound smile as he gazed deeply at Bai Lixiao. ¡°Some things are better kept secret. Hong Qing was foolish for sharing this with me.¡±


    Bai Lixiao fell silent.


    ¡°Since that fellow is from the Great Expansion Dao Gate, the Nine Yang Dao Sect should refrain from getting involved in this matter. If ites to a confrontation, we¡¯ll need to rely on the Great Expansion Dao Gate.¡±


    "If it weren''t for the fact that the Great Expansion Dao Gate had offended the Void Immortal Sword Sect this time, with their disciples being questioned by various sword cultivators, they would have already hosted the Celestial Court Assembly to showcase the splendor of their Immortal King," Elder Fang said, waving his hand lightly to dismiss Bai Lixiao.


    Bai Lixiao nodded, turned, and left, his mind still somewhat puzzled about why Elder Fang and the higher-ups were willing to spend two hundred mid-grade spirit stones to redeem Hua Qianchi. This move was not merely to rescue him but also to show a stance to the Great Expansion Dao Gate and resolve any misunderstandings.


    Fang Chen mused. "Great Expansion Dao Gate... Ancestor Hong Qing... Immortal Yun He..."


    This matter involved Immortal Yun He. If Ancestor Hong Qing had received Senior Yun He¡¯s teachings, then he could be considered Fang Chen''s senior brother. For both personal and rational reasons, Fang Chen couldn''t ignore this.


    Fang Chen nced deeply at Elder Fang for a second before quietly departing with his soul.


    ***


    At the Immortal Qin Manor.


    Li Daoye, seeing Fang Chen return, immediately asked with curiosity, "What did the people from the Nine Yang Dao Sect say?"


    As he asked, he observed Fang Chen, trying to see if there were any signs of Nine Yang Dao Sect¡¯s karma left on him.


    "They didn''t say much. They gave me two hundred mid-grade spirit stones to resolve the dispute and took Hua Qianchi away," Fang Chen replied with a smile. ???


    Li Daoye looked surprised. "Did they back down? That¡¯s unexpected..."


    "They might be reasonable, acknowledging that Hua Qianchi was at fault.¡±


    Li Daoye nodded thoughtfully, then asked in a low voice, "What about that matter? The time ising tomorrow."


    "It should be fine.¡±


    Li Daoye sighed in relief. "That''s good to hear."


    He wanted to stay here longer, as Chu Lan had treated him very well. Not to mention that he was reluctant to face another round of upheaval.


    The next day, early in the morning, Chu Lan sent someone to invite Fang Chen over.


    Qin Feng and Qin Xuan were also present. Both had different expressions upon seeing Fang Chen.


    "Mother, today is the family council. It might be inappropriate for an outsider to be present," Qin Xuan said in a low voice.


    "Xuan''er, if your brother cane through this safely, then Daoist Fang will be considered the greatest contributor," Chu Lan said softly.


    Qin Xuan looked puzzled and uncertain. She had no idea what this so-called savior had been up to during this time. Strolling around? Making enemies with the Nine Yang Dao Sect? What else had he done?


    ncing at Fang Chen, Chu Lan said, "Let¡¯s go, Daoist Fang.¡±


    Fang Chen nodded lightly.


    The ancestral hall had been chosen as the location of the Immortal Qin n council. As they made their way there, many eyes were scanning Chu Lan and the others. The owners of these gazes were the powerful figures from various branches of the family. When they looked at Chu Lan, their eyes were filled with schadenfreude, and there was no sign of anxiety about the uing war between the Immortal Qin n and Langya n.


    ¡°First Lady, today is the Immortal Qin n Council. This person probably doesn''t have the qualifications to enter,¡± said a cultivator at the entrance of the ancestral hall, blocking Chu Lan and the others while scrutinizing Fang Chen.


    Suddenly, someone¡¯s voice rang out. ¡°This person is a distinguished guest of the First Lady. Why are you stopping him?¡±


    Everyone looked up to see Qin Nie, apanied by Wu Wan. The crowd immediately greeted them with respect and bowed. Their attitude toward Chu Lan and Wu Wan was markedly different from their earlier stance.


    ¡°Since he is a distinguished guest of the First Lady, please let him in,¡± the cultivator said, stepping aside.


    Chu Lan smiled at Wu Wan, nodded to Qin Nie, and then led Fang Chen and the others into the ancestral hall.


    Inside the ancestral hall, all the Nascent Soul Realm cultivators from various branches had already arrived, numbering about seventy or eighty people. Besides them, there were also many Golden Core Realm and Foundation Building Realm cultivators.


    Everyone stood together in the center of the ancestral hall, where dozens of grand master chairs had been prepared in advance, but their upants had not yet arrived.


    The head of the Immortal Qin n was standing in the foremost position. When he saw that Fang Chen was also present, a hint of displeasure shed in his eyes.


    The crowd briefly nced at Fang Chen before turning their attention to Qin Feng.


    Today, Qin Feng was the center of attention, as everything had started because of him.

 Chapter 599: Verdict

    Feeling the intense scrutiny from all sides, Qin Feng was under immense pressure. He knew the trouble he had caused was severe, so severe that even as the son of the head, his life could be in danger. The best oue would be having his cultivation abolished.


    Chu Lan stepped forward subtly, blocking half of the gazes directed at Qin Feng.


    ¡°Elder Brother, Feng¡¯er has made a big mess this time around. I hope that regardless of the ancestors'' decision, you won¡¯t show favoritism,¡± a burly middle-aged man said calmly from a short distance away.


    Everyone nodded in agreement. They were not targeting Qin Feng personally but were upholding the Immortal Qin n''s rules. Unless the ancestors personally decided to pardon Qin Feng, failing to impose proper punishment for such a major mistake would undermine the family''s rules, and future young members might follow his example.


    The speaker was the head of the Immortal Qin n''s second branch, whose cultivation was very high. Although not at the Enlightenment Realm, he had reached the peak of the Nascent Soul Realm, just one step away from the Middle Three Realms.


    The heads of the various branches had simr levels of cultivation.


    ¡°Rest assured, Qin Feng is my son, but he hasmitted a grave mistake. Whatever punishment the ancestors decide, I will not show favoritism,¡± the head said softly.


    The crowd nodded, though their true thoughts remained hidden.


    The people around began to assess Fang Chen, their eyes revealing a hint of contemtion. Initially, they thought he was merely trying to take advantage of Chu Lan, but after the recent incident at the Immortal Origin District, their perception changed. To endure for such a long time under nearly a hundred protectors of the Nine Yang Dao Sect wasn¡¯t something an ordinary Golden Core Realm cultivator could achieve.¡°His aura is definitely not that of the Nascent Soul Realm.¡±


    ¡°He can¡¯t be in the Foundation Building Realm; someone in the Foundation Building Realm doesn¡¯t have such means.¡±


    ¡°Even for a Golden Core Realm cultivator, possessing such outstanding abilities among peers is no simple feat.¡±


    Many people exchanged their thoughts through secretmunication.


    Before long, a group of elders emerged from the back of the ancestral hall.


    These elders, regardless of gender, were all at least at the Middle Three Realms. Among them were several at the Soul Splitting Realm and a few at the Fusion Realm. As soon as the group¡¯s leader appeared, they brought immense pressure on the people around, as though a massive stone was weighing down on their chest, making breathing difficult.


    These elders were all ancestors of the Immortal Qin n, of very high status. They only appeared when significant events urred within the family. Normally, they resided in their own cave dwellings, detached from mundane affairs, leaving daily matters to be managed by the Immortal Qin n head and others.


    The elders took their seats with great formality. The leader upied the host seat, with two Fusion Realm elders on either side, followed by the Soul Splitting Realm and Enlightenment Realm elders.


    <em>This should be the Fusion Realm ancestor of the Immortal Qin n. His cultivation aura is slightly weaker than Su Mo of the Immortal Dynasty Holy Land, and not as strong as Senior Li, the Dao Union Realm expert from the Greenwood Sect. </em>Fang Chen thought to himself as he observed the elder.


    ¡°We pay our respects to the ancestors!¡±


    The Immortal Qin n head led everyone in a bow, showing utmost respect.


    ¡°Hmm.¡± The central elder gave a slight nod, his gaze settling on Qin Feng. ¡°I¡¯m sure you all have some idea what we are discussing today.¡±


    Chu Lan, initially anxious to resolve Qin Feng¡¯s troubles as quickly as possible, found herself less impatient as the day of the meeting arrived. She wanted to see how the Immortal Qin n¡¯s ancestors would deal with her son. ?


    Qin Feng suddenly spoke up. ¡°Ancestor, Feng¡¯er has made a mistake. Regardless of how you choose to deal with it, I have noints.¡±


    ¡°Your matter will be dealt withter,¡± the Immortal Qin n¡¯s ancestor said casually.


    He waved his sleeve, and a Heaven Profound Mirror flew into the air, expanding as it caught the wind.


    The crowd instinctively looked at the Heaven Profound Mirror. After a few moments, an image appeared within it. It showed another grand hall, where dozens of elders were seated.


    The figure at the head of the table had a solemn expression, and his gaze through the Heaven Profound Mirror fell upon the Immortal Qin n ancestor.


    ¡°Brother Qin, have you reached a decision?¡± he asked slowly.


    The ancestor of the Langya n!


    The Immortal Qin n members quickly realized that the elder appearing before them was undoubtedly the ancestor of the Langya n.


    ¡°The importance of that Three Sr Fruit to me is something Brother Langya should understand. Although it was foolishly stolen by one of my disciples, it was ultimately consumed by a mere Golden Core Realm cultivator of your Langya tribe,¡± the Immortal Qin n ancestor said with a smile. ¡°We, the Immortal Qin n, need an exnation for this matter.¡±


    ¡°Brother Qin, rest assured that the Langya n will provide an exnation for this issue. We only hope that this matter will not lead to armed conflict between us,¡± the Langya ancestor said with a nod.


    Both the Immortal Qin n and Langya sides were tense. Whether the Immortal Qin n and Langya n would go to war depended on whether today¡¯s negotiations could reach a satisfactory resolution.


    ¡°I know you¡¯ve asked the Prefect to mediate, and the Prefect¡¯s son, Qi Fa, is also with our Immortal Qin n. However, I¡¯ve already exined this matter to the Prefect personally. It is between you and me. Therefore, regardless of the decision I make, the Prefect has decided not to intervene. Do you understand, Brother Langya?¡± the Immortal Qin n ancestor asked.


    The Langya ancestor remainedposed. ¡°Brother Qin, please stop beating around the bush and speak directly.¡±


    ¡°I demand the the Langya Ancient Scripture. Additionally, I want the Langya n to cede half of your territory to us. If you agree to these terms, we can resolve this matter without resorting to conflict,¡± the Immortal Qin n ancestor stated.


    The Langya n ancestor was shocked when he heard this. In fact, many people from the Qin n¡¯s side were confused and surprised as well.


    How could the Langya n possibly agree to such terms? The Langya Ancient Scripture was the very foundation of their existence! If they were to hand it over so easily, how would they maintain their position in the Azure Dao Manor in the future?


    Many people began to look thoughtful, fearing that a war between the Immortal Qin n and Langya n might be imminent. They had already started calcting their gains and losses in theing battle.


    The Langya n ancestor''s eyes shed with anger as he stared intently at the Immortal Qin n ancestor. "Brother Qin, are you saying that there is no room for negotiation? If I can somehow find another Three Sr Fruit for you, will that not be eptable?"


    "Can you find a Three Sr Fruit within three years?" the Immortal Qin n ancestor replied coldly. "If you cannot, then withdraw your words. Before the next cmity befalls, I will strike at your ancestral shrine."


    The Langya ancestor fell silent. Indeed, it was impossible to find a Three Sr Fruit within three years. They might have been able to do it in thirty years, but even then, it would be a stretch. With a hundred years, there might be a slim chance.


    However, the Immortal Qin n¡¯s stance was clear. They would not wait.


    "This matter¡­ cannot be entirely med on us," the Langya ancestor suddenly said. "It was your own disciple who acted on his own and caused this incident. I only became aware of it after the fact. Moreover, I did not consume the Three Sr Fruit, and I never intended to oppose you intentionally."


    His words drew the attention back to Qin Feng. The Immortal Qin n ancestor also looked at Qin Feng and said, "Therefore, today, not only do I require an exnation from you, but I also intend to clean house."

 Chapter 600: Shattered Soul, Severed Reincarnation Path!

    The crowd''s expressions shifted slightly as they realized the ancestor intended to deal with Qin Feng in front of the Langya n. He was sending a clear message: the Immortal Qin n was not taking this matter lightly.


    The Immortal Qin n head remained impassive, as if he hadpletely severed ties with Qin Feng and was indifferent to how the situation was handled.


    "Qin Feng, do you confess to the theft of the Three Sr Fruit?" the Immortal Qin n ancestor asked.


    "I confess," Qin Feng replied, his head hanging low.


    Qin Xuan was so anxious, but she hesitated to speak.


    "Who did you give the stolen item to?" the Immortal Qin n ancestor asked again.


    Qin Feng remained silent. Although everyone already knew the truth, he was unwilling to speak it out loud.


    "Feng''er, why don¡¯t you tell the ancestor that you were coerced into stealing the Three Sr Fruit?" Chu Lan said softly.


    Qin Feng shook his head repeatedly. "No one manipted me. It was my own greed and unforgivable selfishness."The crowd nodded. Qin Feng''s willingness to admit his fault could be seen as a sign of courage. However, the gravity of his mistake meant he faced certain death.


    "Husband..." Wu Wan uttered as she lightly tugged on the Immortal Qin n head¡¯s sleeve, her face anxious.


    She was hinting for him to speak up for Qin Feng.


    The Immortal Qin n head remained expressionless and did not respond, maintaining his indifferent demeanor.


    "Are you saying nothing, hoping we don¡¯t know?" a Fusion Realm ancestor shouted angrily. "For a lowly person from the Langya n, you dare to steal the ancestor¡¯s Three Sr Fruit? What is the blood flowing in your veins?!"


    The expressions of everyone present shifted as they realized the gravity of the situation.


    Chu Lan¡¯s face turned pale, as the words spoken were clearly hinting at something grave.


    At this moment, the usually impassive Immortal Qin n head finally spoke. "Esteemed ancestors, Feng''er is indeed of Qin blood. There is no doubt about that."


    The Fusion Realm ancestor did not dwell on the topic further. He coldly fixed his gaze on Qin Feng. "Did you give the Three Sr Fruit to Langya Yu of the Langya n?"


    Qin Feng slowly nodded. "Yes."


    "Ancestor, the matter is clear. Please make your decision," the Fusion Realm ancestor said, sping his hands in respect as he looked toward the Immortal Qin n ancestor.


    "This is indeed treason." the Immortal Qin n ancestor stated. "First, imprison Qin Feng. In three days, he will be publicly executed by a thousand cuts. His soul will be shattered, and his path to reincarnation severed."


    Many people gasped, their faces turning pale. Death by a thousand cuts, and even shattering his soul? Severing his reincarnation path?!


    This was a decision to ensure Qin Feng wouldpletely vanish from the world, denying him even the chance to be reborn as any creature. Such a harsh decision had not been seen in the Immortal Qin n for countless years¡­


    The Immortal Qin n head looked shocked.


    Chu Lan swayed, and Qin Xuan quickly supported her to prevent her from falling.


    The Langya ancestors watching through the Heaven Profound Mirror saw the Immortal Qin n ancestor¡¯s judgment and became increasingly somber. The Immortal Qin n was resolute in their decision to deal harshly even with their own kin. How could the Langya n ever resolve this grudge?


    Qin Feng forced a bitter smile. "Shattered soul¡­."


    He had not anticipated such a harsh sentence, bing the only person in the Immortal Qin n in centuries to face such severe punishment.


    Fang Chen nced at him, feeling that the Immortal Qin n ancestor¡¯s decision was justified. Only such ruthless measures could establish discipline.


    Qin Feng¡¯s actions were indefensible. Qin Feng did not know that the Spirit Blood Sect had been manipting the situation from the beginning and that he was merely a pawn, but he had indeed stolen the Three Sr Fruit intended for his ancestor and given it to a woman from another tribe.


    The Immortal Qin n head called out sternly, "Yue Long!"


    Yue Long stepped forward. "At yourmand!"


    At this moment, he was not a general of the Spirit Blood Sect but a respected elder of the Immortal Qin n.


    The Immortal Qin n head¡¯s voice was cold andmanding. "Take Qin Feng away, guard him closely, and execute him in three days. Shatter his soul!"


    Chu Lan looked at the Immortal Qin n head with a dazed expression. "Dear, are you really going to be so ruthless?"


    "Mother, I am the one at fault. I ept my punishment. Please do not me Father," Qin Feng said softly, trying to soothe his mother.


    The Immortal Qin n head did not meet Chu Lan''s gaze. His expression remained grim as he shouted at Yue Long, "Why haven¡¯t you taken him away yet?"


    "Qin Feng... Young master, pleasee with me," Yue Long said, looking at Qin Feng.


    Qin Xuan hurriedly spoke up. "Wait! Ancestor, I¡¯ve had Langya Yu captured. She is the real mastermind. If not for her honeyed words, he would not havemitted such a foolish act! If we kill her, it will surely appease the esteemed ancestors!"


    ¡°Langya Yu has been captured?¡±


    The crowd was taken aback. The Langya ancestor and their members were also surprised, but they remained silent, merely observing the situation. If sacrificing a Golden Core Realm disciple of the Langya n could resolve the conflict, the Langya n would be quite willing to take the loss.


    Qin Feng, who had been listless, suddenly became enraged and shouted at Qin Xuan. "Qin Xuan, this matter has nothing to do with Langya Yu! I am willing to bear the responsibility alone. Why do you involve an innocent person?"


    "Brother, can¡¯t you see you¡¯re doing all this for a woman? Is it worth it?" Qin Xuan¡¯s eyes were filled with tears. "Do you know how worried Mother has been for you? She is a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator, so her lifespan should be long, but have you noticed her hair turning gray?


    ¡°She¡¯s been deceived by wicked ways and subjected to private gossip. She bore all that pressure for you, and you just want to end it all with death? What about the people still living... don¡¯t they matter to you?"


    Qin Feng was stunned into silence.


    Many eyes turned to Fang Chen, realizing that the "wicked ways" Qin Xuan mentioned referred to him..


    <em>Thick-skinned, no sense of shame,</em> some thought.


    "Enough¡­." Chu Lan sighed softly. "Stop arguing. Let¡¯s put an end to this matter."


    She turned to the Immortal Qin n ancestor and cupped her hands in respect. "Ancestor, I have found another Three Sr Fruit for you. Please spare my son¡¯s life."


    The crowd erupted in surprise, exchanging incredulous nces, their eyes eventually settling on Chu Lan with expressions of shock.


    The Immortal Qin n ancestors looked at each other, equally stunned.


    The Langya n ancestor was visibly stunned. After exchanging nces with the others, he did not interrupt Chu Lan but continued to observe quietly. There might be a chance for things to turn around.


    Qin Xuan¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief. <em>Did I hear correctly? A Three Sr Fruit!?</em>


    Qin Feng was also in shock.


    The Immortal Qin n head was just as shocked, and he instinctively looked at Fang Chen, who was beside Chu Lan.


    Qin Nie remainedposed, but his fist tightened slowly within his sleeve.


    The Immortal Qin n ancestor turned his gaze to Chu Lan and asked, ¡°What are you saying?¡±


    ¡°I found a Three Sr Fruit through the guidance of Daoist Fang,¡± Chu Lan answered, taking out the fruit from her storage ring.


    Qin Nie recognized the fruit immediately as the one he had lost. At this moment, his face turned ashen.


    ¡°It really is a Three Sr Fruit¡­¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no mistaking its aura. I remember inspecting it closely when I visited the spirit herb garden¡­¡±


    ¡°Is this person not a fraudster¡­?¡±


    The crowd began whispering among themselves.


    Qin Xuan looked at Fang Chen in a daze, a sense of shame slowly filling her eyes.

 Chapter 601: The Counterattack

    The Immortal Qin n ancestor slowly approached Chu Lan, examining the Three Sr Fruit for a few moments before nodding. ¡°This is indeed a Three Sr Fruit. Since you were able to find it for Qin Feng in such a short time, I will spare him from death.¡±


    Chu Lan''s face lit up with joy.


    Qin Feng took a deep breath. Although he had already prepared himself for death, being spared was indeed a blessing.


    The Langya n ancestor disyed a faint smile. ¡°Congrattions, Brother Qin. Now that you have the Three Sr Fruit, we, the Langya n, are willing to make further concessions. I hope you can calm your anger.¡±


    The Immortal Qin n ancestor¡¯s gaze grew cold as he looked at the mirror. ¡°The Three Sr Fruit was obtained by the Immortal Qin n. It has nothing to do with your n. Now that I have the Three Sr Fruit, I no longer need to worry about the cmity and can take my time dealing with you.¡±


    The Immortal Qin n members were immediately startled; it seemed that the war was still on!


    Fang Chen furrowed his brows, feeling a hint of unease. Nevertheless, since things were not yet settled, he decided to observe further.


    The Langya n ancestor¡¯s smile faded, reced by a very somber expression. As a Dao Union realm cultivator, he had tried to persuade them, but they stubbornly refused to relent.


    ¡°Brother Qin, do you truly believe¡­ that we are no match for your n?¡± the Langya n ancestor asked coldly. ¡°If you continue to push us, I am prepared to fight this war to the end.¡±The Immortal Qin n ancestor smiled faintly. ¡°Are you a match for us? There are only about a hundred prominent ns in the Azure Dao Manor, and how many of them are aligned with your n?¡±


    The Langya n ancestor¡¯s expression changed slightly. ¡°Brother Qin, are you intending to drag the entire Azure Dao Manor into this?¡±


    He had expected the conflict to be between the Immortal Qin n and Langya n, but the meaning behind the Immortal Qin n ancestor¡¯s words was clear. That was to be a widespread conflict involving many ns!


    ¡°I am not dragging the Azure Dao Manor into this; it is your n that has gone too far,¡± the Immortal Qin n ancestor said calmly. ¡°This is yourst chance. Will your n surrender your scripture? Perhaps then we can still negotiate.¡±


    ¡°Brother Qin, if you insist on fighting, then let us fight,¡± replied the Langya n ancestor.


    He snorted coldly and then vanished from the mirror.


    The Immortal Qin n ancestor retracted the mirror and looked at the silent crowd. ¡°Prepare yourselves. Soon, we will be dealing with the experts of the Langya n.¡±


    Many Immortal Qin n cultivators showed fierce looks and expressions of excitement, while others wore worried faces, reluctant to see this conflict unfold.


    Fang Chen remained expressionless, as if it was none of his concern whether the Immortal Qin n and the Langya n were going to war.


    He had realized that the Spirit Blood Sect was merely taking advantage of the situation. From the beginning, the Immortal Qin n ancestor was the one who wanted this war, perhaps for the Langya n''s Dao traditions.


    However, one thing was clear. The Immortal Qin n ancestor believed this battle would not drag on for long; he was confident of the Immortal Qin n¡¯s victory. The loss of the Three Sr Fruit was just an excuse.


    Given the Spirit Blood Sect''s nature, they would never let such a conflict be short-lived. They would use every method to prolong the war to make the casualties as high as possible, which would only benefit them.


    The Immortal Qin n ancestor was unaware of this possibility and had not picked up on any of the clues. Of course, there was another potential reason¡ªhe might be a Spirit Blood Sect cultivator.


    Chu Lan was also surprised by the turn of events, but she said nothing. As long as Qin Feng was spared, she didn¡¯t care about the Spirit Blood Sect¡¯s involvement. She neither had the means to interfere nor the desire to provoke them.


    Suddenly, Qin Nie asked, ¡°Ancestor, could you verify if this Three Sr Fruit is the one we lost?¡±


    The crowd¡¯s expressions shifted, showing a touch of bewilderment. Qin Nie¡¯sment introduced a new twist to what seemed to be a conclusion.


    The Immortal Qin n ancestor nced at Qin Nie.


    Before the Immortal Qin n ancestor could speak, Qin Nie continued, ¡°This junior believes this matter is quite suspicious and must be thoroughly investigated. Otherwise, it might leave hidden dangers.¡±


    The crowd understood that Qin Nie was implying that Qin Feng had stolen the Three Sr Fruit but hadn¡¯t handed it to Langya Yu. It suggested that Qin Feng¡¯s goal had been solely to obtain the fruit, but when his life was put on the line, he was forced to hand over the fruit.


    The idea seemed highly usible to many. After all, how could Chu Lan, a mere Nascent Soul cultivator, have found a Three Sr Fruit? It was something even Dao Union Realm cultivators found difficult to acquire. Moreover, she had managed to do it just with some casual guidance from a Grand Thousand Dao Sect cultivator¡­?


    The Immortal Qin n head furrowed his brows. ¡°Nie¡¯er?¡±


    Chu Lan red at Qin Nie, her eyes filled with undisguised disdain.


    ¡°Father, this matter is of great importance, so I had to speak up,¡± Qin Nie said softly.


    Qin Xuan frowned. ¡°Brother Nie, your concerns are valid. Langya Yu has already been captured. Let¡¯s have her talk.¡±


    Qin Nie bowed respectfully. ¡°Ancestor, could we have Langya Yu confirm Brother Feng¡¯s story?¡±


    The Immortal Qin n ancestor scrutinized him for a moment before nodding faintly.


    After a brief period, a pale-faced woman was brought into the ancestral hall.


    Qin Feng immediately grew tense and instinctively started to approach her, but he was stopped by Chu Lan.


    ¡°Yu¡¯er... have they harmed you?¡± Qin Feng asked with a bitter smile.


    Fang Chen observed the woman, noting her tear-streaked face and decent appearance. It was no wonder Qin Feng was so infatuated with her.


    ¡°Brother Feng, I... I¡¯m a bit scared...¡± Langya Yu said, her eyes filled with terror.


    Qin Feng hurried to reassure her. ¡°Don¡¯t¡­ don¡¯t be afraid. The matter has been resolved. My n will not harm you...¡±


    ¡°You shameless woman, answer me. Did you eat the Three Sr Fruit that my brother stole?¡± Qin Xuan asked coldly, ring at Langya Yu.


    ¡°Brother Feng... I¡¯m really scared. My family has been reprimanded by the n elders because of this incident, and now I¡¯ve been captured... I... I¡¯m sorry,¡± Langya Yu stammered, clearly distressed.


    Langya Yu¡¯s tears flowed continuously as she fell to her knees before the Immortal Qin n ancestor. ¡°Esteemed elders, I did not eat the Three Sr Fruit. Brother Feng asked me to say this. He said that as ady of the Langya n, the Immortal Qin n wouldn¡¯t trouble me. He promised that if I waited for a while, this matter would eventually be resolved...¡±


    The crowd stared in shock, turning their gazes toward Qin Feng.


    Qin Feng, however, seemed to have been struck by lightning. He stared at Langya Yu in disbelief. It was as if a vital part of his mind had suddenly been severed, leaving him in a daze.


    ¡°What are you saying, you shameless woman?! You clearly admitted before that my brother gave you the Three Sr Fruit, which helped you ovee the Golden Core Realm tribtion!¡± Qin Xuan roared in fury.


    She had never expected that this woman would turn the tables, bing a weapon against Qin Feng.


    Qin Feng suddenly let out a bitterugh. ¡°Turns out... everything was a lie...¡±


    Instead of defending himself, he murmured, ¡°Back then, Qin Nie told me that you were in great distress due to the Golden Core tribtion and might die in the disaster... From that moment, the n began, didn¡¯t it? If not for Qin Nie¡¯s reminder, I would never have thought to steal the Three Sr Fruit from the Spirit Herb Garden to extend your life. <em>Ha...</em> howughable...¡±


    Qin Nie¡¯s expression remained unchanged. He snorted. ¡°Brother Feng, trying to drag me down at this point is truly unjust. No one in the Immortal Qin n will believe your words now.¡±


    Qin Nie appearedpletely indifferent, not the slightest bit angered by Qin Feng¡¯s usations.


    That made the Immortal Qin n members, who were already suspicious of the ims, even more uncertain about them.

 Chapter 602: Or Will You Kowtow Nine Times?

    Qin Nie nced at Langya Yu. ¡°I¡¯ve never met Young Lady Yu, so how would I know her current situation?¡±


    ¡°Say what you want. It¡¯s my fault, my foolishness,¡± Qin Feng said with a bitter smile. ¡°You, my dear brother, I truly hoped you were my brother. Too bad.¡­¡±


    ¡°Ancestor, aside from Qin Feng, this person might also be involved.¡± Qin Nie pointed at Fang Chen and then nced at Chu Lan. ¡°As for the First Lady¡­¡±


    The Immortal Qin n family head¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°Nie¡¯er, do not speak recklessly.¡±


    Qin Nie fell silent. He had said enough, leaving it for others to interpret.


    The crowd exchanged nces in silence.


    The Immortal Qin n ancestor looked at Qin Feng, then at Qin Nie, and finally cast a brief look at Fang Chen before lightly waving his sleeve.


    <em>Bang!</em>


    Langya Yu was instantly reduced to a mist of blood, vanishing from existence. Qin Feng watched this scene with a self-deprecating smile that gradually faded.¡°The family matters have been resolved. Do not spread this outside. The next issue is between the Immortal Qin n and Langya n. Understand what is important and what is not,¡± the Immortal Qin n ancestor said before turning and leaving.


    The other ancestors also stood up and followed him out.


    With the ancestors gone, the pressure in the ancestral hall eased immediately, but the atmosphere remained tense. The ancestors'' words indicated that they would no longer concern themselves with the petty details of this matter, directing everyone''s focus on the impending conflict between the Immortal Qin and Langya ns.


    The crowd also noticed the underlying issue: the ancestor seemed more inclined to wage war against the Langya n rather than to focus on the matter of the Three Sr Fruit. Perhaps, this whole situation was merely a pretext.


    ¡°Chu Lan, don¡¯t misunderstand Nie¡¯er. He¡¯s just considering the family¡¯s interests. I believe Feng¡¯er wouldn¡¯t do something so foolish. It must be that woman¡¯s scheme,¡± Wu Wan spoke up in defense of Qin Nie.


    A smile suddenly yed on Chu Lan¡¯s lips. ¡°Listen here, you bitch; take your bastard son and get out of here. I don¡¯t want to see the two of you again.¡±


    Wu Wan was taken aback.


    Qin Nie was surprised by Chu Lan¡¯s direct insult, as the confrontation was now fully out in the open.


    Qin Nie¡¯s tone turned cold. ¡°How dare you insult my mother¡­¡±


    Chu Lan wore a bright smile, but her eyes were icy. ¡°If you want to harm Feng¡¯er, not only will I insult your mother, but I¡¯ll also crush you with my own hands, you little bastard.¡±


    The crowd, disying their politeness, chose to stay out of the matter, preferring to watch the spectacle unfold. It was rare to witness such a scene, even in a hundred years.


    ¡°Enough!¡± the Immortal Qin n family head shouted sternly. ¡°Isn¡¯t it humiliating enough already? All of you, get out!¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll leave first,¡± Chu Lan said, bowing gracefully.


    She didn¡¯t forget to take Fang Chen, Qin Xuan, and Qin Feng with her as they departed from the ancestral hall.


    The Immortal Qin n family head¡¯s expression shifted between dark and uncertain as he watched them leave. He turned to Wu Wan and Qin Nie. ¡°You two should leave as well.¡±


    ¡°Mother, let¡¯s go,¡± Qin Nie said, pulling Wu Wan away.


    ¡°Everyone, since the situation is already so tense today, let¡¯s proceed to discuss the next matter.¡±


    The head of the Immortal Qin n looked at everyone. ¡°In the struggle against the Langya n, I hope the Immortal Qin n''s casualties can be minimized. We cannot control how and when the fight will start, but the details need to be worked out below.¡±


    The heads of the various houses nodded in agreement and began offering their suggestions.


    Surpassing Dragon Battle General showed a subtle smile in his eyes. Despite the small disruptions, they were insignificant; the Spirit Blood Sect''s n had seeded.


    ***


    Chu Lan remained silent as she returned to the private residence. After entering, she looked at Qin Feng. ¡°Feng''er, can you finally see it clearly now?¡±


    ¡°Mother, I was wrong.¡± Qin Feng nodded. ¡°I won¡¯t do such foolish things in the future and make you worry.¡±


    ¡°Go. Kowtow nine times to thank Young Master Fang. He saved your life; otherwise, you wouldn¡¯t even have a chance at reincarnation,¡± Chu Lan said.


    ¡°Young Master Fang, please receive my bow.¡±


    Qin Feng immediately knelt down and performed nine prostrations.


    Fang Chen did not stop him; this was the proper way to show gratitude.


    Qin Xuan was beet red with shame. Her expression looked a little unnatural. ¡°Young Master Fang, I misunderstood you¡­.¡±


    ¡°<em>Heeh</em>, what is it? Do you also want to kowtow nine times?¡± Fang Chen joked.


    Qin Xuan was momentarily taken aback.


    Chu Lan smiled. ¡°Young Master Fang is joking with you.¡±


    Qin Xuan sighed in relief.


    ¡°Three will be enough,¡± Chu Lan continued.


    ¡°Really?! I¡­ I have to?¡±


    Qin Xuan seemed reluctant.


    Fang Chen smiled. ¡°Is it so difficult? Then just get it over with quickly.¡±


    Seeing that her mother wasn¡¯t joking, Qin Xuan knelt down and kowtowed three times to Fang Chen.


    After that, Chu Lan waved her hand, signaling the two to leave. "Please leave."


    Qin Xuan had many questions she wanted to ask. However, now that her mother had dismissed her, she had to swallow them back.


    At that moment, however, Qin Feng asked, "Mother, was that Three Sr Fruit the one I gave to Langya Yu?"


    Chu Lan did not answer but looked at Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen smiled lightly and said, "Yup. I retrieved it from Qin Nie. Are you at ease now?"


    Qin Feng''s expression shifted slightly. He slowly cupped his fist and turned to leave.


    Qin Xuan''s face showed astonishment as she suddenly realized and eximed, "You¡¯re the one who took our storage rings¡­!"


    She quickly shut her mouth. However, she added in a low voice, "Young Master Fang, there are some personal items in there. Could you..."


    "We''ll discuss itter," Fang Chen said.


    Satisfied, Qin Xuan nodded and left.


    After Qin Xuan left, Chu Lan''s expression turned grim. "Young Master Fang, now that the ancestor is unwilling to cease hostilities, how do you n to deal with the Spirit Blood Sect''s cultivators?"


    "First Lady, weren¡¯t you trying to avoid getting involved?" Fang Chen asked with a smile.


    Chu Lan smiled back. "I didn¡¯t want to get involved before, but since Qin Nie¡¯s scheming to harm my son, I have to take action. If it were just the Spirit Blood Sect using my son as a pawn, I might have been able to endure it, but as you just saw...."


    She paused. ¡°Qin Nie wants my son to be utterly crushed."


    "This matter... we need to observe the situation further," Fang Chen said thoughtfully. "If a war between the Immortal Qin n and Langya n is inevitable, Qin Nie might still look for opportunities to deal with you and your son."


    He paused. "And me. I have probably be a thorn in his side. He might be more eager to kill me than Qin Feng."


    Chu Lan¡¯s eyes showed a hint of contemtion.


    "First Lady, take a few days to rest. Try to find some peace of mind and don''t dwell on these matters. I must take my leave," Fang Chen said, cupping his fist and turning to leave.


    Once he returned to his quiet room, his soul immediately left his body and sped toward where the Immortal Qin n ancestor was.


    He wanted to investigate whether there was any connection between him and the Spirit Blood Sect.


    If there was, he couldn¡¯t intervene directly and would have to report it to the Killing Spiritual Division. This would also involve the risk of being discovered by the Spirit Blood Sect''s spies within the division. Though the risk was not high, it was not negligible either.


    In a secluded courtyard, Qin Nie stood with his head bowed before the Immortal Qin n ancestor.


    Seeing Qin Nie present, Fang Chen frowned. Was the ancestor actually the Spirit Blood Sect''s most significant pawn in the Immortal Qin n?

 Chapter 603: Avalanche

    <h4>Chapter 603: Avnche</h4>


    The Immortal Qin n ancestor stared at Qin Nie, staying silent for a long time. After a while, he finally opened his mouth.


    ¡°Why did you do this?¡±


    Qin Nie remained silent for a moment before responding, ¡°Ancestor, it was you who said Qin Feng should have his soul shattered and his reincarnation path severed.¡±


    ¡°Indeed, I did say that. But now, with the purpose achieved, our Immortal Qin n and the Langya n are about to go to war. Within six months, I will stand in the Langya ancestral hall,¡± the Immortal Qin n ancestor said calmly. ¡°Chu Lan found the Three Sr Fruit. Out of respect and reason, Qin Feng should be offered a chance at life.¡±


    ¡°But that Three Sr Fruit... originally belonged to you,¡± Qin Nie said in a subdued voice.


    The Immortal Qin n ancestor took out the Three Sr Fruit and examined it for a while before smiling faintly, ¡°So what if it was mine? The fact that they managed to obtain this fruit from you means you weren¡¯t cautious enough. This scheme of yours has failed.¡±


    He paused. ¡°You advised me to test whether Qin Feng could be trusted with significant responsibilities. He has indeed disappointed me. Without this Three Sr Fruit, he would have been tortured and had his soul shattered. This serves as a warning to the younger generation within the n.¡±


    A smile yed on his lips as he looked at Qin Nie. ¡°Unfortunately, you underestimated Chu Lan, which is why she found a way to save Qin Feng. Losing in this way is inconsequential. You should focus on your cultivation and the matters of the Azure Dao Manor.


    ¡°Now that the current Prefect lordcks any practical abilities, once we conquer the Langya n and consolidate our power, the position of Prefect lord will naturally fall to me, and you will still be the head of the next generation of the n.¡±


    He casually tossed the Three Sr Fruit to Qin Nie and waved his hand. ¡°Go back and prepare well. This battlefield will be your stage. I will give you a strategic position and a portion of the n¡¯s elite tomand.¡±


    ¡°I will take my leave now,¡± Qin Nie said, taking the Three Sr Fruit and cupping his hands before leaving.


    Fang Chen¡¯s eyes narrowed. <i>It seems the Immortal Qin n ancestor believes he can soon conquer the Langya n. His real aim is not the Spirit Blood Pill, but the position of the Prefect in the Azure Dao Manor.</i>


    That indicated that the Immortal Qin n ancestor was likely not a Spirit Blood Sect member. He was probably kept in the dark about the uing war, which would most likely be beyond his control.


    Another critical point was that the Immortal Qin n ancestor didn¡¯t actually need the Three Sr Fruit, as he had given it to Qin Nie.


    However, Qin Nie was only at the peak of the Foundation Building Realm.


    It would be considered a waste if even a Golden Core Realm cultivator used the fruit to pass the first tribtion.


    Considering how highly they regarded Qin Nie, there must be a deeper reason behind it.


    Qin Nie soon returned to his own residence, where the Surpassing Dragon Battle General had been waiting for a long time.


    ¡°Lord Qin Nie, your mind was unsettled during the ancestral hall meeting,¡± the Surpassing Dragon Battle General said with profound meaning.


    Qin Nie nodded slightly. ¡°Indeed, I should not have clung to Qin Feng. At this point, Qin Feng is just an insignificant ant, not worth my attention.¡±


    ¡°I am relieved you understand this,¡± the Surpassing Dragon Battle General replied with a nod.


    ¡°But I still want to crush that ant, as well as that Chu Lan and the one named Fang,¡± Qin Nie added, his voice filled with frustration and resolve. A smile appeared on his lips. ¡°Is there a problem with that?¡±


    The Surpassing Dragon Battle General was momentarily taken aback, but after a few seconds of silence, he responded with a smile, ¡°There¡¯s no problem at all. You, Lord Qin Nie, have alreadypleted the assessment. I¡¯m sure the Radiant Sun Spirit Lord will be quite pleased when he hears the news.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not trulypleted yet. The old man thinks that the Immortal Qin n has an absolute advantage. As long as this Three Sr Fruit reaches the ancestor of the Baichuan n, the Baichuan n will fully align with us and sweep away the Langya n like a gust of autumn wind,¡± Qin Nie fiddled with the Three Sr Fruit, his eyes flickering with a hint of cold derision. ¡°He says I lost? Ridiculous. The one who truly lost is him.¡±


    ¡°What should I do?¡± the Surpassing Dragon Battle General asked softly.


    ¡°Take this Three Sr Fruit and deliver it to Langya Batian. He will know what to do next,¡± Qin Nie instructed, handing the fruit to the Surpassing Dragon Battle General. ¡°Before heading to the Langya n, deal with that person from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect for me.¡±


    ¡°Lord, should we wait until after everything is finished before taking action, to avoidplications?¡± the Surpassing Dragon Battle General asked, frowning.


    He felt that Qin Nie was being somewhat irrational at the moment.


    ¡°Complications? You, a full-fledged Nascent Soul Realm cultivator, are worried aboutplications when dealing with an alleged Golden Core Realm cultivator? Don¡¯t worry. I haven¡¯t asked you to act within the Immortal Qin Manor. You have three days. If you can¡¯t find an opportunity within three days, head to the Langya n. I¡¯ll let him live for a while longer,¡± Qin Nie said with a coldugh.


    The Surpassing Dragon Battle General fell into thought for a few moments before nodding. ¡°Understood.¡±


    He took the Three Sr Fruit and turned to leave.


    ¡°Wait a moment,¡± Qin Nie suddenly called out.


    ¡°Is there something else, Lord?¡± the Surpassing Dragon Battle General asked, looking back at Qin Nie.


    ¡°Capture him alive, no need to kill him. I want to have a word with him,¡± Qin Nie said.


    The Surpassing Dragon Battle General understood that Qin Nie wanted to vent his anger by torturing the target. He nodded slightly and then quickly left.


    ¡°The Baichuan n?¡± Fang Chen pondered.


    <i>It seemed that this n would y a crucial role in the uing war. The fact that the Immortal Qin n ancestor handed the Three Sr Fruit to Qin Nie, expecting him to deliver it to the Baichuan n''s ancestor, was puzzling. Why not choose a Nascent Soul cultivator for such an important task? </i>


    Fang Chen hadn''t figured that out yet.


    However, it was clear that the Langya Batian mentioned was likely a Spirit Blood Sect cultivator. The Three Sr Fruit would eventually be transferred from the Langya n to the Baichuan n, causing the Baichuan n to switch sides and join the Langya n¡¯s camp.


    Fang Chen sighed lightly. ¡°To resolve this war now, it would require external force; otherwise, any scheme is futile.¡±


    It was like an avnche. There might have been ways to stop it before it started, but once it begins, everything in its way is bound to be overwhelmed and buried. Qin Nie¡¯s role merely served as the trigger.


    Fang Chen considered the idea of persuading the Immortal Qin n ancestor to end the senseless conflict or revealing Qin Nie¡¯s true intentions. Though it might be a viable path, the chances of sess were slim.


    Returning to his physical body, Fang Chen opened the door of his meditation room and saw Li Daoye looking anxious, like a cat on a hot tin roof.


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡± Fang Chen asked casually.


    ¡°Lord, weren¡¯t you at the ancestral hall? I heard that the battle between the Immortal Qin n and the Langya n is about to begin. Was the situation not prevented?¡± Li Daoye asked in a low voice.


    ¡°It couldn¡¯t be stopped. The one most eager for this war is not the Spirit Blood Sect, but the Immortal Qin n ancestor. He believes he can suppress the Langya n within six months,¡± Fang Chen said, shaking his head slightly.


    Hearing that, Li Daoye immediately turned around, seemingly anxious to leave.


    ¡°Where are you going?¡± Fang Chen asked.


    ¡°To pack and escape!¡± Li Daoye replied.


    ¡°Qin Nie is targeting Chu Lan, Qin Feng, and me. I think you might be safer staying with the n. Once you leave the Immortal Qin Manor, you might end up in the underworld in no time,¡± Fang Chen warned.


    Li Daoye halted, a bitter smile on his face as he turned back to Fang Chen. ¡°Lord Fang, please show me a clear path.¡±

 Chapter 604: Goddess Shen Ji

    <h4>Chapter 604: Goddess Shen Ji</h4>


    Fang Chen patted Li Daoye on the shoulder. ¡°For now, the best course of action is to stay temporarily in the Immortal Qin Manor. Qin Nie won¡¯t dare to openly act against us here, especially since the Immortal Qin n¡¯s ancestor wouldn¡¯t want to see any internal strife while preparing for war.


    ¡°There are still unstable factors within the Immortal Qin n. If you don¡¯t believe it, try using your Divination of the Stars.¡±


    Li Daoye agreed to test it. After a moment, he rxed and nodded. ¡°Indeed, it¡¯s safest for me to remain in the Immortal Qin Manor.¡±


    ¡°Then go back to your cultivation,¡± Fang Chen said with a smile.


    Feeling a little better, Li Daoye turned and returned to his meditation room.


    Fang Chen considered the situation and went back to his meditation room to send a message through Killing Spiritual Division¡¯smunication token.


    <i>Azure Dao Manor, the Immortal Qin n¡¯s ancestor intends to go to war with the Langya n. The Spirit Blood Sect¡¯s Qin Nie is involved, backed by the Radiant Sun Spirit Lord. Is there anyone who canmunicate with the Immortal Qin n¡¯s ancestor? A gentle persuasion would be appreciated.</i>


    After a short while, a reply came


    <i>I am one day¡¯s journey away from the Immortal Qin n. I will try, but I cannot guarantee that the Immortal Qin n¡¯s ancestor will listen to me.</i>


    <i>Thank you, friend.</i>


    <i>It is my duty as a member of the Killing Spiritual Division. No need to thank me.</i>


    Aside from this reply, there were no further messages, suggesting that this might be the only Killing Spiritual Division member within thousands of miles. However, the fact that the responder could speak to the Immortal Qin n¡¯s ancestor was reassuring.


    The next day, early in the morning, Chu Lan sent a maid to invite Fang Chen over.


    ¡°Fang Daoist, there is something... I¡¯ve been thinking about all night and can¡¯t quite understand,¡± Chu Lan said, rubbing her temples.


    Her eyes were filled with confusion.


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°Yesterday, Qin Nie clearly stated that the Three Sr Fruit was indeed the one from the Immortal Qin n''s medicinal garden. With the ancestor¡¯s means, he would certainly recognize it. Why did he kill Langya Yu without further investigating the matter? Did he not suspect the real reason behind the theft of the Three Sr Fruit?¡± Chu Lan asked softly.


    ¡°Do you truly wish to know, First Lady?¡± Fang Chen replied thoughtfully.


    ¡°I knew that you were aware of this matter, Daoist Fang. Please enlighten me,¡± Chu Lan said with a serious expression.


    Fang Chen smiled softly and exined, ¡°The real person who wants to go to war with the Langya n is the ancestor of the Immortal Qin n. The Spirit Blood Sect became aware of this and took advantage of it, with Qin Nie carrying out this n while also testing whether Qin Feng could shoulder significant responsibilities.


    ¡°If Qin Feng had not been deceived at that time and had ced the family¡¯s interests first, he might have gained favor and been nurtured by your family¡¯s ancestor. Unfortunately, he failed the test. The Immortal Qin n¡¯s ancestor thus used him to set an example to the Immortal Qin n¡¯s younger generation.


    ¡°From the beginning, he knew that the Three Sr Fruit came from the Immortal Qin n¡¯s spirit herb garden. However, because you managed to find a glimmer of hope for Qin Feng from a dire situation, the Immortal Qin n¡¯s ancestor chose not to kill him.¡±


    ¡°Indeed... this aligns with my suspicions...¡± Chu Lan murmured to herself. Her face hardened into a cold smile. ¡°These old, immortal beings can even use their own family as pawns. Qin Feng¡¯s father is no exception! The Immortal Qin n has long lost its sense of kinship. Cultivation, cultivation... all they care about is cultivation. They have lost their humanity!¡±


    Fang Chen was about to exin a few things about the Immortal Qin n¡¯s patriarch when he saw Chu Lan standing right in front of him, looking at him with deep, affectionate eyes.


    ¡°Daoist Fang, if it weren¡¯t for your help, Feng¡¯er would certainly be dead. I am at the Nascent Soul Realm and have a dual cultivation method I have never used before. It might be able to help you advance a small level,¡± she said, her cheeks flushed with a faint pink.


    Chu Lan''s embarrassment was palpable.


    However, regardless of whether it was out of gratitude or because of the special feelings that had arisen in her heart toward the one who had extended a helping hand when she was most desperate, it was a powerful emotion that she could not easily restrain.


    Seeing that Fang Chen did not respond immediately, Chu Lan moved closer to him and whispered, ¡°Daoist Fang, although you cannot see, you can touch my face. I am not ugly...¡±


    Fang Chen opened his gray-white eyes. ¡°You are certainly not ugly, First Lady; otherwise, how could you be the matriarch of the Immortal Qin n?¡±


    For some reason, Chu Lan saw a hint of seriousness in his eyes. She was momentarily stunned. Soon, a self-deprecating smile appeared on her face, realizing Fang Chen was politely refusing her.


    ¡°The patriarch of the Immortal Qin n once nned that if Qin Feng were sentenced to death, he would have his trusted subordinate, Yue Long, help him escape from the Immortal Qin n,¡± Fang Chen said softly.


    Chu Lan¡¯s eyes widened with disbelief. She scrutinized Fang Chen carefully and asked in a low voice, ¡°Daoist Fang, is this true? How do you know...?¡±


    ¡°I have my own sources. If I didn¡¯t have some information, how would I dare to oppose the Spirit Blood Sect?¡± Fang Chen smiled. ¡°This matter is indeed true. The patriarch of the Immortal Qin n would rather give up his position than let Qin Feng die. As a father, he has done well in this regard.¡±


    Chu Lan took a while to ept the truth, her face showing a wry smile. ¡°Thank you, Daoist Fang, for telling me this truth. Otherwise, I would regret it for many years...¡±


    ¡°However,¡± Fang Chen continued, ¡°The man by the Immortal Qin n patriarch¡¯s side, Yue Long, is also a person of Qin Nie¡¯s, or rather... He¡¯s a person of the Spirit Blood Sect.¡±


    Chu Lan was shocked. ¡°Yue Long has been my husband¡¯spanion since childhood. How could he be a member of the Spirit Blood Sect!¡±


    ¡°I suspect that Qin Nie¡¯s affiliation with the Spirit Blood Sect might be rted to him,¡± Fang Chen said.


    Chu Lan was struck by a wave of shock and horror, realizing that such a high-ranking member of the Immortal Qin n could be connected to the Spirit Blood Sect.


    ¡°First Lady, you should make early preparations. Once Qin Nie has the chance, he will use the Spirit Blood Sect to deal with you,¡± Fang Chen advised before leaving for his quiet room, leaving Chu Lan alone to ponder the situation.


    Before long, Fang Chen¡¯s spiritual sense returned to the secluded courtyard of the Immortal Qin n¡¯s ancestor, waiting quietly.


    By evening, a young girl walked slowly into the courtyard, and the Immortal Qin n ancestor greeted her with a beaming smile.


    At that moment, the Immortal Qin n ancestor appeared like an ordinary old man, devoid of any signs of the Dao Union Realm¡¯s aura. The young girl, on the other hand, looked quite peculiar. Her trousers were rolled up to her knees, and she was barefoot. However, her feet werepletely dust-free.


    ¡°Goddess Shen Ji, what brings you to visit this old man? Did you happen to be passing by the Azure Dao Manor?¡± The Immortal Qin n ancestor asked with a hint of surprise.


    Fang Chen stared at the young girl in shock. The visitor was none other than the mysterious woman who had once taught him the Primordial Immortal Eyes. She was the one whom he had suspected of destroying the Profound Void Temple.


    Judging by the fact that she arrived after he sent the message, it seemed highly likely she was a member of the Spiritual Killing Division.


    ¡°Old Qin, I¡¯ve heard that your Immortal Qin n is about to go to war with the Langya n?¡± The young girl spoke calmly.


    ¡°You have heard of this matter, Goddess Shen Ji?¡± The Immortal Qin n ancestor was somewhat surprised but then nodded lightly. ¡°The Langya n is ambitious and deceitful. They orchestrated the theft of my Three Sr Fruit. This grudge must be avenged, so the battle is inevitable.¡±


    ¡°There is a scheme by the Spirit Blood Sect behind this. The battle should not proceed,¡± the young girl said calmly.


    ¡°Spirit Blood Sect?¡± The Immortal Qin n ancestor was taken aback. His expression grew serious. ¡°How do you know about this, Goddess Shen Ji?¡±

 Chapter 605: Ninth Generation King

    <h4>Chapter 605: Ninth Generation King</h4>


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry about that. Just tell me if you will stop the war,¡± the young girl said calmly.


    The Immortal Qin n ancestor looked conflicted. He quietly replied, ¡°The war has already begun. It¡¯s not possible to call it off even if I want to. Please forgive me, Goddess Shen Ji.¡±


    Fang Chen could clearly sense that the Immortal Qin n ancestor was wary of the mysterious woman, but he was still unwilling to stop the war, indicating a deep-seated obsession.


    ¡°Old Qin, you need to prepare yourself. This battle won¡¯t end in a year or two. If it truly starts, it mayst eighty or ny years.¡± The young girl shook her head. ¡°By then, how much will be left of the Azure Dao Manor? How many cultivators from your Immortal Immortal Qin n will remain? It will only result in both sides suffering heavy losses.¡±


    ¡°Goddess Shen Ji, I have spent many years in the Azure Dao Manor. I don¡¯t spend all my time in seclusion but often discuss and debate with friends from various factions,¡± the Immortal Qin n ancestor said with a hint of confidence. ¡°I have a clear understanding of this war. Even if the Spirit Blood Sect tries to scheme from behind the scenes, it will only have a minor impact on the war.


    ¡°The Spirit Blood Sect is everywhere; avoiding them at every turn is not a path to survival. If the Immortal Qin n wants to make progress, this battle is unavoidable.¡±


    The young girl¡¯s brows furrowed slightly. ¡°Is there no room for negotiation?¡±


    The Immortal Qin n ancestor smiled. ¡°You haven¡¯t visited my n for so long. How about I have my disciples show you around?¡±


    ¡°There is no need for that. Farewell.¡±


    The young girl remained expressionless. She sped her hands in a brief bow and turned to leave.


    As the young girl departed, the Immortal Qin n ancestor¡¯s expression grew extremely somber, as if deep in thought. After a few moments, he took out a Heaven Profound Mirror and infused it with several low-grade spirit stones.


    Fang Chen initially intended to follow the young girl to see where she might go, but upon witnessing the scene, he decided to stay put.


    Soon, a figure appeared within the Heaven Profound Mirror, obscured by a mist that made the image unclear.


    ¡°Brother Qin, haven¡¯t you already made your decision? Why contact me now?¡±


    The figure in the mirror spoke with a hint of impatience.


    Elder Qin sped his hands in a bow, his expression grave. ¡°Your Excellency Prefect, I¡¯ve been informed that there are Spirit Blood Sect cultivators behind this affair.¡±


    ¡°Spirit Blood Sect?¡±


    The figure stayed silent for a while, seemingly contemting the significance of the words.


    Fang Chen furrowed his brows. He had assumed that the Azure Dao Manor¡¯s master, or the Prefect, was merely bribed to ignore the situation. However, it seemed there was more to the story.


    After a pause, the figure finally responded, ¡°Are you sure? Is the informant reliable?¡±


    ¡°It is Goddess Shen Ji of the Divine Dao Sect.¡±


    ¡°No matter. The Spirit Blood Sect¡¯s operatives are nothing more than hidden pests. Let them gain a little advantage if they can. Once the war starts, they won¡¯t have the ability to control the situation. You quickly conquer the Langya n and secure your benefits, while I will secure mine.¡±


    Qin Lao appeared concerned. ¡°But... Goddess Shen Ji advised me to halt the war, and I refused. Will this not lead to dissatisfaction from the Divine Dao Sect?¡±


    The figure in the mirror didn¡¯t seem to care. ¡°The Divine Dao Sect¡¯s displeasure is of no consequence. The war¡¯s oue is what matters. Ensure your victory, and all will be well.¡±


    Elder Qin¡¯s face grew even more somber. He seemed to be deep in thought, grappling with the implications of the conversation.


    Fang Chen watched quietly, piecing together theplexity of the situation. The interactions suggested that the Spirit Blood Sect¡¯s influence was significant, but their ability to directly impact the war was limited. Meanwhile, the Divine Dao Sect¡¯s interest in the conflict was also evident, adding anotheryer of intrigue to the unfolding events.


    "Just a mere Goddess Shen Ji. She can''t represent the entire Divine Dao Sect. If it were an elder, that would be another matter, but why should you fear her? Even if the Divine Dao Sect is powerful, they still have to bow to the Central Continent Empire. The Ninth Generation King, who¡¯s behind me, does not fear the Divine Dao Sect."


    When the Immortal Qin n ancestor heard the words "Ninth Generation King," he immediately felt a sense of relief, as if he had been given a dose of reassurance. After chatting a bit more, he put away the Heaven Profound Mirror and turned to retreat for secluded cultivation.


    "Divine Dao Sect... Ninth Generation King..."


    A trace of contemtion shed in Fang Chen''s eyes. This situation was far moreplex than it seemed. The Ninth Generation King mentioned by the Azure Dao Manor Prefect was likely on the same level as Heavenly King Zhen, a cultivator of the Ascension Realm, a powerful Immortal King!


    Perhaps this murky situation had some connection with the Ninth Generation King. What might he be trying to gain from the Langya n? Could it be that he found it inconvenient to take action directly, thus prompting the Azure Dao Manor Prefect and the Immortal Qin n ancestor to coborate and find an excuse to crush the Langya n?


    If that were the case, the Spirit Blood Sect might not even be aware of the true details behind this matter.


    "They don''t need to know. They only want the Spirit Blood Pill; they may not be interested in the deeper details behind this."


    A hint of faint derision shed in Fang Chen''s eyes as he pursued the young girl with his divine soul. However, he could not find her; she had vanished without a trace.


    Returning to his physical form, Fang Chen opened his eyes to see the young woman standing before him.


    "How is your practice of the Primordial Immortal Eyeing along?" the young woman asked calmly as she saw Fang Chen open his eyes.


    ¡°I might have reached the beginner level now.¡±


    A flicker of golden lines appeared in Fang Chen¡¯s eyes. At this moment, the contours and features of the young woman before him seemed to constantly shimmer. Curiously, the lines that should have been clear now appeared chaotic and could not form a true outline of the young woman.


    ¡°Indeed, it¡¯s at the beginner level. It seems your talent is not weak. How long have you been with the Killing Spiritual Division?¡± the young woman asked calmly.


    A trace of confusion surfaced on Fang Chen¡¯s face. ¡°Killing Spiritual Division?¡±


    The young woman frowned. ¡°Didn¡¯t you call me here to persuade the Immortal Qin n ancestor? You were also present when I was trying to persuade him just now.¡±


    A wry smile appeared on Fang Chen¡¯s lips. <i>Another old monster.... </i>


    His divine soul had only been detected by three individuals. The first was Supreme Immortal Pudu, the second was the ancestor of the Greenwood Sect, and the one before him was the third.


    The Void Immortal Sword Sect seemed to hold Supreme Immortal Pudu in disdain, indirectly suggesting that he could not be a Profound Immortal. Thus, Supreme Immortal Pudu¡¯s ability to detect his divine soul might not be rted to cultivation level but could involve other factors.


    The ancestor of the Greenwood Sect, on the other hand, could detect his divine soul due to being a Profound Immortal, a straightforward matter of cultivation superiority.


    As for the young woman in front of him, Fang Chen was uncertain of the exact reason for her detection of his divine soul. However, it was highly likely she, like Supreme Immortal Pudu, possessed some special means to find his divine soul.


    ¡°Senior, I am the Eternity Heavenly Sage from the Killing Spiritual Division. May I ask for your esteemed name?¡±


    Fang Chen¡¯s expression turned serious as he rose and performed a respectful bow.


    ¡°You are ratherzy, using a name like that,¡± the young woman replied, ¡°My title is Shen Ji.¡±


    Fang Chen raised his eyebrows. ¡°Shen Ji?¡±


    Immortal Qin n ancestor had referred to her as Shen Ji. <i>Is she actually using her real name?</i>


    ¡°Yes, I am using my true name,¡± the young woman said, as if she guessed Fang Chen¡¯s thoughts, and nodded calmly. ¡°Since the Immortal Qin n ancestor refused to heed my advice, this battle is bound to happen. He must have some confidence and reasons for it. You stayed there a bit longer, did you gather any information?¡±


    Fang Chen thought for a moment and then recounted the conversation between the Immortal Qin n ancestor and the Azure Dao Manor Prefect.


    ¡°I believe this matter may involve the Ninth Generation King,¡± Fang Chen added.


    Shen Ji frowned in contemtion for a while, and then a look of realization appeared on her face. She nodded slightly. ¡°You guessed correctly. The Ninth Generation King is indeed involved in this matter. However, it¡¯s not directly rted to him. It should be a decision made by certain individuals within the Ninth Generation King Manor.


    ¡°They are interested in the inheritance of the Langya n, possibly because they need it to perform a certain ancient technique. As far as I know, the ninth son of the Ninth Generation King is very fond of studying Daoist techniques. He once ordered his subordinates to search everywhere and even found some secrets rted to the Three Thousand Dao Sect.¡±

 Chapter 606: Divine Dao Sect

    <h4>Chapter 606: Divine Dao Sect</h4>


    Fang Chen''s eyes lit up. ¡°Regarding the Three Thousand Dao Sect?¡±


    Could this be rted to the Heavenly Abhorrence Technique? If the ninth son of the Nine World King was indeed the one behind this matter, it might involve a technique that requires the Daoist heritage of the Langya n to activate.


    ¡°This matter is beyond your current capability to intervene. I will assign another Killing Spiritual Division colleague to handle it and try to minimize the impact,¡± Goddess Shen Ji said, ¡°However, it will take at least six months for him to arrive. During this period, the Azure Dao Manor will be in turmoil, so it¡¯s best if you leave to avoid being affected.¡±


    Fang Chen sighed with relief. Having a Killing Spiritual Division colleague take over was reassuring, and they likely would be quitepetent.


    ¡°I must leave now. Farewell,¡± Shen Ji said, turning to depart.


    Fang Chen quickly cupped his hands and said, ¡°Senior Shen Ji, I would like to ask one more question.¡±


    He had learned from Immortal Void Rush that Fang Tingyuan was a member of the Killing Spiritual Division. Since Shen Ji was also a Killing Spiritual Division member, she was likely the ¡®demoness¡¯ from before.


    ¡°Do you wish to ask about Fang Tingyuan?¡±


    Fang Chen nodded. ¡°Indeed.¡±


    ¡°He is quite a mysterious person,¡± Shen Ji said, a trace of contemtion passing through her eyes. ¡°From what I know, Fang Tingyuan would not easily have his cultivation destroyed, nor would he easily die.¡±


    ¡°He must still be alive. But for some reason, he doesn¡¯t wish to reveal himself. Do you remember when you went mad at the Immortal Dynasty Holy Land? I suspect that he was the one who helped you resolve that issue. Unfortunately, I was not there at the time.¡±


    She sighed lightly and then changed the subject. ¡°You already know a few Spirit Blood Sect cultivators. Would you like me to help you eliminate them?¡±


    That time in the Immortal Dynasty Holy Land...


    Fang Chen was somewhat shocked. He had indeed learned from Fairy Yu that an elder had intervened to suppress the nine consciousnesses in the mottled bloodstains. Without this intervention, he could not imagine what might have happened to him by now.


    This elder... could it be the ancestor of the Fang family, Fang Tingyuan?


    But at least that person would be a Profound Immortal. Fang Tingyuan was only a Golden Core Realm cultivator four hundred years ago. Reaching the Profound Immortal Realm within four hundred years... such a cultivation speed was incredibly terrifying.


    ¡°Never mind, handle it as you see fit.¡±


    By the time Fang Chen came back to his senses, she had already disappeared without a trace.


    After a few moments of contemtion, Fang Chen took out Mirror of the Universe.


    ¡°Little Zhou, have you heard of the Divine Dao Sect? How many spirit stones would it take for you to answer me?¡±


    ¡°The Divine Dao Sect has little to do with fate, so you can ask any disciples for information without paying spirit stones,¡± Mirror of the Universe responded. ¡°The Divine Dao Sect is one of the five great sects in the Central Continent Empire, along with the Spirit Blood Sect, which you already know about. The Divine Dao Sect isprised of four major powers¡ªthe Green Elephant Sect, the Grand Dao Library, the Lingyun Sword Sect, and the Immortal Giant Sect.


    ¡°Four major powers?¡±


    Fang Chen was a bit surprised to learn about the Immortal Giant Sect. He had killed a disciple of the Immortal Giant Sect, which equates to having killed a member of the Divine Dao Sect.


    ¡°Indeed. In the past, we would have included the Jiang Family. Or rather, the Divine Dao Sect was originally founded by the Jiang Family,¡± Mirror of the Universe exined. ¡°However, the Jiang Family fell from grace and was long removed from the sect.¡±


    <i>No wonder Shen Ji recognized Jiang Tianai and has connections with the Immortal Giant Sect....</i>


    ¡°What is Shen Ji¡¯s position in the Divine Dao Sect?¡±


    ¡°The most outstanding disciples of the four sects undergo various trials. Ultimately, one is selected to receive the true teachings of the Divine Dao Sect and may eventually take on the role of their ancestor. Shen Ji is precisely that person.


    ¡°However, this is only a possibility. It¡¯s not guaranteed that a generation¡¯s chosen will reach that stage. In fact, very few achieve it, as cultivation is inherently unpredictable and often fraught with unexpected events.¡±


    Just then, someone¡¯s voice came from outside the quiet room. ¡°Young Master Fang, He Baiyan requests an audience.¡±


    Hearing the name He Baiyan, Fang Chen¡¯s mind stirred. He put away the Mirror of the Universe and followed the maid to the reception hall.


    He Baiyan seemed to have been waiting for some time. As soon as he saw Fang Chen, he stepped forward and sped his hands. ¡°Daoist Fang, I had been hasty in judging your character. Please forgive me for my misjudgment.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean, Daoist He?¡± Fang Chen asked in surprise.


    He Baiyan looked embarrassed. ¡°Back then, I, like others, thought you were a fraud. Only now do I realize you truly had the means to save Young Master Qin Feng from his deadlock.¡±


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s about that. There¡¯s no need for you to worry, Daoist He. I don¡¯t mind,¡± Fang Chen replied with a faint smile.


    ¡°But I feel truly ashamed. So today, I¡¯ve prepared a banquet to make amends. I hope you can honor me with your presence,¡± He Baiyan said with a rueful smile.


    Fang Chen had initially nned to refuse, but then he had a sudden change of heart. He nodded lightly. ¡°There¡¯s no need to make amends, Daoist He. You were only concerned for her. However, since you¡¯ve set up a banquet, it would be disrespectful not to attend.¡±


    Seeing Fang Chen agree to attend, He Baiyan¡¯s face brightened with a smile. The two began to chat casually as they headed outside.


    Just then, Li Daoye saw them and curiously approached.


    Upon seeing Li Daoye, He Baiyan smiled and invited, ¡°Daoist Li, I¡¯m hosting a banquet as a form of apology to Daoist Fang. Please join us. I¡¯ve wronged you recently as well, and I hope you can forgive me.¡±


    ¡°Are there good food and drinks? In that case, I¡¯m definitelying! Let¡¯s go, let¡¯s go!¡±


    Li Daoyeughed and agreed immediately. He was always keen on free food and drinks!


    Fang Chen nced at him, hoping he would still be this cheerfulter.


    He Baiyan¡¯s banquet was set up in a particrly elegant and secluded courtyard, located some distance from the Qin residence. Servants and maids moved back and forth, carrying trays of various delicacies.


    Li Daoye¡¯s eyes lit up at the sight. Just the aroma made his stomach growl in anticipation.


    ¡°This is the Qingfeng Courtyard, established by a cultivator of the Middle Three Realms. It gathers rare delicacies from various regions, and we often hold banquets here to entertain distinguished guests.¡±


    He Baiyan exined while leading the two into a private room, which was actually an independent bamboo grove.


    ¡°Just the three of us?¡±


    Li Daoye was a bit surprised, having expected He Baiyan to invite some of the Immortal Qin Manor¡¯s cultivators to join the feast.


    <i>Is he embarrassed about this banquet?</i> <i>He¡¯s apologizing after all....</i>


    Li Daoye quickly pieced it together.


    ¡°Please take a seat. A notable guest will be joining us shortly; he is the most trusted aide to the family head.¡±


    After seating himself, He Baiyan had the maid serve tea to Fang Chen and Li Daoyi.


    ¡°<i>Lord Fang, I think this person is trying to win you over,</i>¡±<i> </i>Li Daoye sent a secret transmission.


    Fang Chen smiled but did not respond. After a while, a figure slowly walked into the room. It was Yue Long, the Surpassing Dragon Battle General.


    Upon seeing Fang Chen, Yue Long¡¯s face immediately broke into a smile. Simrly, Fang Chen also smiled when he saw him.

 Chapter 607: He Knows Everything!

    Yue Long smiled. ¡°I¡¯m notte, am I?¡±


    He Baiyan immediately stood up. ¡°Brother Yue, you¡¯re just on time. Please, have a seat.¡±


    Yue Long smoothly took the main seat, his gaze sweeping over Li Daoye before finally resting on Fang Chen. With a light smile, he said, ¡°Young Friend Fang, thanks to you, Master Feng managed to survive.¡±


    At that moment, He Baiyan suddenly stood up. With a smile, he said, ¡°Gentlemen, please stay seated; I¡¯ll be back shortly.¡±


    With that, He Baiyan left.


    ¡°Is Daoist He going to relieve himself? Does a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator need to do that?¡± Li Daoye asked in surprise.


    ¡°Daoist He likely has some personal matters to attend to,¡± Yue Long replied casually. ¡°What follows has nothing to do with him; what use would he have staying here?¡±


    ¡°But that¡¯s not right, is it? Wasn¡¯t Daoist He hosting this banquet to apologize to Fang Chen? If he doesn¡¯t stay¡­who¡¯s going to pay for this meal?¡± Li Daoye said with a puzzled expression.


    ¡°Meal? What meal? The two of you aren¡¯t here to dine. I ask for your understanding and request that you apany me,¡± Yue Long said calmly. ¡°Qin Nie, the young lord, wants to see you both.¡±As soon as Li Daoye heard the name Qin Nie, he panicked.


    <em>So this was all just a setup! Could it be that Lord Fang¡¯s identity has beenpromised?</em><em>Or is it that Qin Nie harbors resentment? Does he feel that Lord Fang is the one who saved Qin Feng from death?</em>


    Whatever the reason, Li Daoye knew that if the other party wanted to meet them, it certainly wouldn¡¯t be anything simple.


    "Young Friend Fang, I know you have some tricks up your sleeve, but in the presence of a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator, it would be wise to keep them to yourself. I don¡¯t wish to see blood spilled here,¡± Yue Long said, his tone calm as he looked at Fang Chen.


    A powerful aura emanated from him, enveloping Fang Chen and Li Daoye.


    Li Daoye¡¯s chest turned stifled, and he instinctively looked at Fang Chen.


    "Daoist Yue, could it be that Young Lord Qin Nie bears a grudge against me and ns to act against me? But if Lady Chu Lan finds out, I fear even Young Lord Qin Nie would have trouble exining himself," Fang Chen replied calmly.


    Yue Long chuckled lightly. ¡°Lady Chu Lan? She can barely protect herself now; how could she possibly shield you two... ants. You can only me yourselves for stepping into this mess.¡±


    With that, Yue Long stood up and gestured for them to follow. ¡°Please, gentlemen.¡±


    Fifteen minutester.


    Yue Long led them to a secluded courtyard where Qin Nie was already waiting, standing quietly beneath a tree. Apart from him, there were over a dozen other figures hidden nearby, their auras varying in strength. ?


    Qin Nie smiled and approached the two. "Daoist Fang, we meet again.¡±


    ¡°You forget that Daoist Fang is blind; he can¡¯t see you.¡± Li Daoye frowned. ¡°Go ahead, tell us what you want. If this is about Qin Feng, you should find him. We have nothing to do with it.¡±


    ncing at Li Daoyie, Qin Nie''s smile widened. ¡°Yue Long, cut out his tongue.¡±


    Li Daoye felt a chill run down his spine and quickly looked at Fang Chen. "Lord Fang, if you have any tricks up your sleeve, now''s the time to use them."


    "Tricks? Haha..." Qin Nie chuckled softly, mockery in his eyes. "What tricks could he possibly have?"


    "Young Master Qin, is He Baiyan one of your people?" Fang Chen suddenly asked.


    "He Baiyan... to say he''s one of my people... he doesn''t quite qualify. But since he feels there''s no future in staying by Lady Chu Lan''s side, nor does he receive her trust or favor, he thought to curry favor with me and pledge his loyalty," Qin Nie said with a hint of resignation. "A Nascent Soul Realm cultivator, willing to work for me... How could I refuse? Even if he''s of little use, having a dog isn''t bad."


    A cold glint shed in Yue Long''s eyes. Comparing a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator to a dog¡­. Was this some kind of hint?


    "Don''t misunderstand, I''m talking about He Baiyan, not you," Qin Nie said, looking at Yue Long.


    He then turned to Fang Chen. "Daoist Fang, do you know why I invited you here today?"


    "I don''t imagine it''s for anything good.¡±


    Qin Nie nodded slightly. "Indeed, it''s not a pleasant matter. I have something I want to ask you¡­ how did you know the Three Sr Fruit was in my possession?"


    Fang Chen feigned confusion. "What are you talking about, Young Master Qin?"


    "No need to pretend. Back at Immortal Origin District, you deliberately knocked us out to steal my storage ring," Qin Nie said calmly. "That incident earned me a few days of beingughed at behind my back."


    A cold gleam appeared in Qin Nie''s eyes. "Tell me, how did you know the Three Sr Fruit was in my possession? Did Lady Chu Lan tell you, or did you hear it from someone else?"


    Fang Chen nced around the area, ignoring Qin Nie''s question. "Young Master Qin, are all your trusted subordinates here?"


    "I¡¯m the one asking the questions." Qin Nie''s eyes flickered as he gave Yue Long a look. "Yue Long, let him have a taste of suffering first. Perhaps then he¡¯ll know how to answer me properly."


    Yue Long smiled slightly and reached out toward Fang Chen. However, as he reached out his arm, a ck sleeve came into view. A pale hand grasped his arm, causing him to turn incredibly rigid as if a chilling force had invaded, rendering him immobile!


    <em>What is this...?</em>


    A flicker of surprise shed in the eyes of everyone present as they witnessed a ck paper figure materialize beside Yue Long. The hand that had grabbed his arm belonged to this ck paper figure.


    Qin Nie''s expression darkened. "Daoist techniques from the Profound Ghost Dao Sect!?"


    Just as he was about to say something, he noticed his subordinates around him suddenly lose their heads and copse lifelessly to the ground.


    Immediately afterward, a white paper figure approached Fang Chen and softly reported, "Lord, no one within a ten-mile radius has been left alive."


    Li Daoye''s face was filled with horror. <em>What kind of trick is this? Talking paper figures? This is way too eerie¡­!</em>


    Fang Chen smiled as he looked at Yue Long. "Yue Long, will you take out the Three Sr Fruit yourself, or should I assist you?"


    "How did you know the Three Sr Fruit was with him...?" Qin Nie eximed, instinctively taking a few steps back.


    The situation in front of him was extremely eerie!


    The other party had remained calm from the beginning, which he had found strange. But when the two paper figures appeared, he t truly sensed something afoot.


    The peak Nascent Soul Realm Yue Long had been renderedpletely immobile by the ck paper figure!


    ¡°Why do you keep asking these kinds of questions? I know who has the Three Sr Fruit, but what does that have to do with you?¡±


    A hint of fear slowly crept into Yue Long¡¯s eyes as he rasped, ¡°Who exactly are you? Do you know our true identities? This is just a misunderstanding, so why don¡¯t we¡­¡±


    ¡°Your true identities? Aren¡¯t you just Spirit Blood Sect cultivators? Or are you iming to be a Profound Immortal and him an Immortal King?¡± Fang Chen looked at Yue Long and then at Qin Nie, speaking calmly.


    Yue Long and Qin Nie were shocked, a chill racing down their spines.


    <em>He knows everything!</em>

 Chapter 608: You Can Only Trust Me

    Qin Nie and Yue Long''s faces were taut.


    How did the other party know they were Spirit Blood Sect cultivators?! Furthermore, did he just find out, or had he known all along? This detail was crucial!


    Qin Nie tried to calm himself, maintaining aposed and indifferent attitude. He couldn''t afford to show any fear. "Who exactly are you?"


    Li Daoyi turned his attention away from the white and ck paper figures and looked at Qin Nie with a sneer. "Why do you keep asking such foolish questions? Didn¡¯t Lady Chu invite Fellow Daoist Fang from the Great Thousand Dao Sect? Isn¡¯t that already obvious?"


    The situation had stabilized. Li Daoye knew Fang Chen had his trump cards. He wouldn¡¯t easily fall into the enemy¡¯s trap.


    Qin Nie¡¯s expression darkened slightly. "Foolish questions?"


    For him to be insulted by a mere Foundation Building Realm cultivator was an utter humiliation. He was valued by the Spirit Blood Sect precisely because of his keen insight and superior intellectpared to most cultivators!


    "No matter who you are... since you know we¡¯re Spirit Blood Sect cultivators, why don¡¯t we sit down and have a proper talk?" Qin Nie said slowly.


    "We¡¯ll do the talk with you kneeling," Fang Chen asserted casually.The ck paper figure figure pressed down on Yue Long, forcing his knees to bend until he knelt.


    Before Qin Nie could react, the white paper figure pressed down on his skull. An overwhelming force struck him, leaving him with no ability to resist. He felt a sharp pain in his knees as he was forced to kneel on the ground.


    <em>Humiliation! Anger!</em>


    Qin Nie''s face twisted in rage. He was the heir of the Immortal Qin n and highly valued by the upper echelons of the Spirit Blood Sect. He was destined to be an immortal with great prospects. How could someone like him kneel before others?


    He wanted to resist, and spiritual energy surged within him. However, to the white paper figure, Qin Nie was nothing more than a mere insect. No matter how hard he struggled, he couldn¡¯t lift his body.


    "From now on, I will ask, and you will answer. If you can infer more from what I ask, that would be ideal," Fang Chen said with a faint smile. "In the Immortal Qin n, besides you, are there any other Spirit Blood Sect scum?"


    "You¡¯re targeting our Spirit Blood Sect!? Are you from the Killing Spiritual Division¡­?"


    Yue Long¡¯s voice was a mix of shock and anger.


    Fang Chen shook his head lightly. "Wrong answer."


    The ck paper figure immediately reached into Yue Long¡¯s chest, ripping out his heart and swallowing it in one bite. It turned to Fang Chen and asked, "Lord, should we remove their karma to prevent anyone from tracing the clues?" ??


    Yue Long was still alive, though his eyes were nk. But upon hearing the mention of karma, he suddenly realized, "You¡­ you¡¯re from that immortal tomb¡­"


    With a light wave of Fang Chen''s sleeve, the nearby dead cultivators were stripped of ayer of human skin. These skins contained all the karma of their lives, from birth to death.


    The ck and white paper figures showed no hesitation and donned these skins as if they were clothing. With each human skin they wore, the texture of the paper clothing became more pronounced, as the skins merged into their paper garments.


    Li Daoye couldn''t help but gasp repeatedly, finding the scene unbelievably eerie. His mind raced, unable toprehend what kind of technique this could be.


    Qin Nie''s face turned ashen. "ck and white paper figures¡­ So the rumors were true¡­ Han Dragon Battle General died at your hands¡­."


    Fang Chen nodded lightly, not bothering to hide the truth. Many had witnessed the events rted to the immortal tomb, so it was natural for rumors to spread. That was why he rarely used the ck and white paper figures, to avoid drawing unwanted attention.


    "Your disciples died by my hand. They were the ones who told me toe to the Immortal Qin n to find you," Fang Chen said with a faint smile.


    "You actively seek out and kill Spirit Blood Sect cultivators¡­ You must be from the Killing Spiritual Division," Qin Nie spected, his eyes flickering with suspicion.


    Li Daoye was momentarily stunned, instinctively ncing at Fang Chen. "The Killing Spiritual Division?"


    "What is the Killing Spiritual Division?" Fang Chen frowned slightly. He shook his head softly. "You don¡¯t need to guess my origins. It¡¯s irrelevant to you. What you should focus on now is answering my questions. Will you cooperate or not?"


    As he spoke, Fang Chen began to perform the Skin Peeling Technique on Yue Long. Even though Yue Long was a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator, he was suppressed by the ck paper figure and had his heart removed, making it easy to strip away his karma.


    Yue Long let out a painful howl as his heavenly spirit cover was torn apart, and his entire skin was slowly peeled away.


    Watching this unfold, Qin Nie decisively said, "I will give you the list of Spirit Blood Sect cultivators. Will you let me live?"


    Fang Chen nodded. "That¡¯s only natural. Your disciples will be safe as long as you cooperate."


    Qin Nie frowned. "How can I trust you?"


    "You can only trust me."


    Golden patterns branched out from around Fang Chen¡¯s eyes, eventually extending to his pupils.


    Yue Long was experiencing untold amounts of pain, but he still managed to roar, "Qin Nie, you cannot trust him! If you dare to betray the Spirit Blood Sect, you won¡¯t be the only one who dies!"


    Fang Chen showed a faint smile. "Worry about yourself first. After being skinned, you won¡¯t even have a chance at reincarnation."


    There are many ways to sever the path of reincarnation, such as those used by the Immortal Qin n like the death by a thousand cuts. However, the Skinning Technique was more thorough. By targeting karma, not only did it cut off reincarnation, but it also erased all traces of the person¡¯s existence from this world.


    Even if a Spirit Blood Sect expert employed a mystical method to uncover the truth, they wouldn¡¯t be able to infer anything.


    "Qin Nie, would you like to experience the Skin Peeling Technique for yourself?" Fang Chen asked, looking at Qin Nie.


    Qin Nie thought for a moment and then spoke slowly. "I can give you the list. There are about a hundred Spirit Blood Sect cultivators hiding in the Immortal Qin n. I hope you keep your word and spare my life."


    By now, Yue Long''s skin had been peeled down to his shoulders, making his face look like a boiled shrimp, red and swollen. "Qin Nie, you deserve to die!"


    "Yue Long, unlike you, I haven¡¯t been in the Spirit Blood Sect long. I only joined to find a backer. If you want to die for them, you¡¯re free to do so, but don¡¯t drag me down with you," Qin Nie said coldly, casting a dismissive look at Yue Long.


    "A wise man adapts to the times," Fang Chenmended.


    Qin Nie quickly wrote down a list. The white paper figure took it from him and handed it to Fang Chen.


    As Fang Chen scanned the list, Qin Nie¡¯s heart sank; it was clear that Fang Chen could see everything. His "sharp eyes" were likely a result of some eye technique or mystical power.


    The ck and white paper figures, the eye techniques, the Skin Peeling Technique¡­ all these signs pointed to the possibility that Fang Chen¡¯s origins were far greater than his own. Now, Qin Nie only hoped to stay alive.


    "I¡¯m not sure about the authenticity of this list," Fang Chen suddenly said.


    Qin Nie felt a sharp pain at the top of his head. His skin was instantly peeled off, and his soul. Trapped within his skin, he could see his bloodied body.


    "You¡¯re not keeping your word!" Qin Nie screamed in madness.


    The white paper figure stepped forward, took the skin, and wore it as part of its attire, blending it seamlessly with its paper clothing.


    Li Daoye looked on in horror, his scalp tingling with fear.

 Chapter 609: A Sword to Sever the Nascent Soul

    As Yue Long¡¯s skin had still yet not beenpletely peeled off, he saw Qin Nie¡¯s death, prompting him to let out a strangeugh.


    "He¡¯s just a Foundation Building Realm cultivator. How could he know anything? The lists are fake, just a ploy to save his life!" Yue Long sneered.


    "The Radiant Sun Spirit Monarch had valued him greatly, and he¡¯s even in charge of this scheme. His status and position are even higher than yours. How could he not know anything?" Fang Chen said casually.


    The shock these words brought Yue Long momentarily numbed his pain, and he stared at Fang Chen nkly, confused.


    <em>Why does he know everything?!</em>


    Before Yue Long could ask, his skin waspletely peeled off.


    "Put it on," the ck paper figure offered, handing the skin to the white paper figure.


    The white paper figure shook its head lightly. "You wear it."


    "In that case, I¡¯ll take it," the ck paper figure replied.It immediately donned Yue Long¡¯s skin, making its clothing even more solid and refined.


    "Is this how you devour karma?" Fang Chen curiously asked.


    The ck and white paper figures nodded slightly, their voices bing a thread only Fang Chen could hear, "We refine the karma within the skin through this process."


    Fang Chen nodded lightly.


    "Lord Fang, may I ask what the names of these two are?" Li Daoye asked, mustering his courage.


    The ck and white paper figures nced at him before instantly vanishing from sight.


    Fang Chen faintly smiled. "It¡¯s just a technique of the Daoist Sect."


    Li Daoye was nervous. "But I clearly saw them speak.¡­"


    "That''s how you intimidate others. Take you, for example. You were frightened," Fang Chen said, turning to leave. "Let¡¯s go. It¡¯s time to return to settle our scores with He Baiyan."


    Li Daoye was immediately enraged and quickly followed Fang Chen. "Yes! Let¡¯s deal with that schemer!"


    At the Immortal Qin n, He Baiyan stood in front of Chu Lan, his demeanor submissive.


    "I heard you invited Fellow Daoist Fang and Fellow Daoist Li for a meal. Why have they not returned yet?" Chu Lan asked.


    He Baiyan stered a smile. "I invited Fellow Daoist Fang out to dinner to apologize for the misunderstanding and to seek his forgiveness for my earlier mistakes. However, midway through the meal, they were taken away by someone sent by Young Master Qin Nie."


    Upon hearing Qin Nie¡¯s name, Chu Lan¡¯s expression darkened. She scrutinized He Baiyan for several moments before speaking slowly. "Qin Nie is up to no good. And as for you¡­ when did you start siding with Qin Nie?"


    He Baiyan¡¯s smile grew more pronounced. "I just recently allied myself with him. Since I¡¯m no longer favored here, I had to find a new ally. Young Master Qin Nie seemed like a good choice."


    Qin Xuan¡¯s eyes zed with anger as she red at He Baiyan. "Uncle He, I didn¡¯t expect you to be this kind of person, joining forces with Qin Nie. He was the one who deliberately framed my brother!"


    Qin Feng stood silently, coldly observing.


    "Young Lady, Young Master, Young Master Qin Nie is a good person and would never frame Young Master Qin Feng. You shouldn¡¯t jump to conclusions and bring trouble upon yourselves," He Baiyan said. After a pause, he added, "I¡¯ve been by thedy¡¯s side for many years, yet she¡¯s angry with me over a stranger with an unknown background. What am I supposed to do?"


    "Enough. There¡¯s no need to discuss this further. Go fetch those two right now. I can overlook your affront," Chu Lan said softly.


    He Baiyan¡¯s eyes showed a hint of cold sarcasm. "Lady Chu, you¡¯re still so naive. Since Young Master Qin Nie wanted to take them away, anyone with a bit of sense would know they wouldn¡¯t being back."


    "Why wouldn¡¯t wee back? We were just going out for a meal, not going to our deaths. Your words are quite baseless."


    Everyone was startled as He Baiyan and Qin Xuan turned to see Fang Chen and Li Daoye standing before them, unharmed.


    Chu Lan let out a sigh of relief.


    Li Daoye continued, "Fellow Daoist He, isn¡¯t this a bit unfair? Didn¡¯t you invite us to dinner as an apology? Why did you sneak away? That meal cost me five hundred low-grade spirit stones. How do you intend to exin this?"


    <em>He¡¯s extorting him?</em>


    Everyone shared the same thought. What kind of meal could possibly cost five hundred low-grade spirit stones? Were they popping pills or something?


    He Baiyan didn¡¯t believe what he was seeing. Suddenly, he burst into a heartyugh and handed five hundred low-grade spirit stones to Li Daoye. "I was rude. I had some urgent matters, so please forgive me for the inconvenience."


    "Madam, since Qin Nie and hisckey Yue Long are both dead, there¡¯s no reason to let him live if he¡¯s together with them," Fang Chen said.


    Li Daoye was taken aback. "Fellow Daoist Fang!"


    Shouldn¡¯t such matters be kept secret? Why was it being openly discussed?


    Chu Lan shot to her feet, staring at Fang Chen in shock.


    Qin Xuan gasped, unable to believe her ears. "Qin Nie is dead?!"


    Qin Feng was stunned.


    He Baiyan was shocked beyond belief, unwilling to believe Fang Chen¡¯s words. However, the fact that Fang Chen and Li Daoye were here unharmed suggested that Qin Nie¡¯s death might be true. But¡­ How could Yue Long, a peak Nascent Soul cultivator, have died too?


    He Baiyan¡¯s thoughts raced, and he forced a strained smile. "Fellow Daoist Fang must be joking. I have urgent matters to attend to, so I¡¯ll take my leave. I¡¯ll invite you for a drink another time."


    As he tried to leave, Chu Lan suddenly said, "Fellow Daoist Fang, do you have a way to make him stay here?"


    He Baiyan¡¯s footsteps faltered slightly. "Lady Chu, even you¡­!"


    However, before He Baiyan could fully turn around, a sh of sword light appeared before his eyes. In the next instant, he knew nothing more.


    Everyone stared in stunned silence at He Baiyan¡¯s scattering ashes, unable toprehend what had just happened. A Nascent Soul Realm cultivator had just died like this?


    The sword light that had struck him seemed ordinary, yet it had such overwhelming power. What was even more shocking was that this sword strike hade from Fang Chen, a cultivator of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect.


    <em>It seems the third sword can reap a Nascent Soul,</em> Fang Chen thought.


    He felt his depleted spiritual energy rapidly recovering. If he were to exhaust his lifespan to perform the fourth sword strike of the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture, he might even injure an Enlightenment Realm cultivator.


    "Fellow Daoist Fang can now easily kill Nascent Soul Realm cultivators¡­ Could the ck and white paper figures really be some kind of technique?" Li Daoye marveled.


    Qin Xuan had initially thought that Fang Chen¡¯s ability to contend with nearly a hundred protectors from the Nine Yang Dao Sect was already impressive. But now, seeing the highly experienced mid-stage Nascent Soul He Baiyan die beneath Fang Chen¡¯s sword, she struggled to imagine the true extent of his strength.


    "Fellow Daoist Fang, I will handle the aftermath of Qin Nie¡¯s death. Thank you for informing me in advance; it would have been quite chaotic if I had learned of it suddenly," Chu Lan said, sping her hands in gratitude.


    Fang Chen politely bowed. "Don¡¯t mention it. If there¡¯s nothing else, I¡¯ll take my leave."


    With that, he gracefully departed.


    Chu Lan opened her mouth but ultimately did not try to make him stay behind.


    N<em>o wonder Lord Fang revealed this matter¡­ It seems he was certain that Lady Chu would handle the aftermath,</em> Li Daoye realized.


    Seeing Fang Chen about to leave, he quickly followed after him.

 Chapter 610: Greetings, Martial Uncle Fang.

    Soon, Qin Xuan realized an important point, her expression turning concerned. "Mother, if Qin Nie is really dead, the ancestors will likely investigate thoroughly¡­."


    "It¡¯s of no concern. Once you¡¯re dead, no matter how influential you were, no one will care anymore," Chu Lan said with a faint smile. "Go and invite Uncle Wang over."


    Qin Xuan nodded. "Yes."


    She quickly left.


    "Feng¡¯er, although Qin Nie is dead, the Immortal Qin n will no longer treat you as before. I need to arrange a way out for you and your sister. After you leave the Immortal Qin n, I can then proceed with some matters," Chu Lan said softly to Qin Feng.


    "Mother, no matter what it is you need to do, I¡¯ll stay by your side," Qin Feng said resolutely.


    "Your current cultivation level is insufficient. You wouldn¡¯t be of much help," Chu Lan replied with a smile and a shake of her head.


    Qin Feng forced a smile. He regretted wasting the past years and wished he had devoted himself to cultivation, which might have allowed him to contribute more.


    "Mother, what do you mean by arranging a way out?" Qin Feng asked softly."The Grand Thousand Dao Sect. I want you and Qin Xuan to go there together. I don¡¯t care how, but you must be disciples of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect. But you must not reveal your true identities. Act as if you are ordinary cultivators and focus on your cultivation in the Grand Thousand Dao Sect," Chu Lan instructed.


    "Grand Thousand Dao Sect?" Qin Feng was surprised. He hesitated. "Although Young Master Fang¡¯s methods are indeed extraordinary¡­ the Grand Thousand Dao Sect¡¯s orthodoxy has long since declined. Even if we were to join a Dao sect, there are many other options to choose from. Why¡­"


    "You are still too young to understand." Chu Lan sighed. "That sword strike from Daoist Fang was not an ordinary move; it was a sword technique."


    "A sword technique?!" Qin Feng swayed, his face filled with disbelief.


    <em>The esteemed Young Master Fang could be a sword cultivator?</em>


    Though the Immortal Qin n held a significant position in the Azure Dao Manor and even had a Dao Union Realm ancestor, he had never truly witnessed a sword cultivator in action and had only heard of them.


    Sword cultivators were incredibly rare within the Central Continent Empire¡¯s borders. They could only be found in sword sects. But the Immortal Court would never allow outsiders to enter.


    ***


    "Lord Fang, where are you nning to go? Are you going to find those people on the list?" Li Daoye curiously asked, following right behind Fang Chen.


    "I¡¯m returning to the Grand Thousand Dao Sect. The Azure Dao Manor will soon be in chaos, so you should stay with Lady Chu. She should be able to protect you," Fang Chen said.


    The list had already been sent out via the Killing Spiritual Division¡¯s token, and responses wereing in. Although it was unclear whether it was Goddess Shen Ji herself, Fang Chen no longer needed to involve himself further.


    They would handle everything perfectly anyway.


    All he had to do was to head back to try to condense his Golden Core.


    Li Daoye''s eyes lit up. "We¡¯re going back to the Grand Thousand Dao Sect? That sounds great; I¡¯ll join you too. I¡¯m also a disciple of a Dao sect. If I could join the Grand Thousand Dao Sect and be brothers with Lord Fang, wouldn¡¯t that be wonderful?"


    "You n to join the Grand Thousand Dao Sect?" Fang Chen scrutinized Li Daoye. "The Grand Thousand Dao Sect is deeply entangled in karmic connections and is the thorn in many Dao sects¡¯ side. It might not be the towering haven you imagine, and it could bring you more trouble than protection."


    "Honestly, Lord Fang, I¡¯ve calcted it, and any connection with you is a chance for me. Those five hundred low-grade spirit stones are proof of that," Li Daoye said earnestly. He pulled out a storage ring and tossed it to Fang Chen. "Right, this is He Baiyan¡¯s storage ring. I secured it right away."


    Fang Chen thought for a moment before throwing the ring back to Li Daoye. "Since you put it that way, let¡¯s consider it your fortune."


    Li Daoye''s eyes sparkled. "Thank you, Lord Fang!"


    Half a monthter, Fang Chen brought Li Daoye back to the Grand Thousand Dao Sect. Pei Qingfeng and others received the message and gathered in the main hall.


    Fang Chen pointed at Li Daoye. "Fellow cultivators, this is Li Daoye, who wishes to join the Grand Thousand Dao Sect. What are your thoughts?"


    Pei Qingfeng was surprised, and he sized up Li Daoye¡¯s cultivation level. He suggested, "How about I take him as a disciple?"


    The others simrly evaluated Li Daoye, wondering why their martial uncle would return from a visit to the Immortal Qin n with a Foundation Building Realm cultivator in tow.


    Fang Chen patted Li Daoye¡¯s shoulder. "It makes sense for Pei Qingfeng to ept you as a disciple. He is in the Golden Core Realm. He wouldn¡¯t try to bury your potential."


    Li Daoye, seizing the moment, immediately knelt and performed the ritual to acknowledge his new master.


    Pei Qingfeng¡¯s face showed a hint of a smile, and he immediately ordered someone to bring the ck book to register Li Daoye.


    "All right, now pay your respects to your martial uncle," Pei Qingfeng said with a light smile.


    Martial uncle?


    It didn¡¯t take long for Li Daoye to understand, his brows rising.


    Pei Qingfeng frowned slightly. "What are you waiting for, perform the ritual."


    "Greetings, Martial Uncle Fang.¡­"


    Li Daoye awkwardly performed the ritual, regretting his choice.


    He had unexpectedly fallen three generations below Fang Chen.¡­ He had originally wanted to be brothers with him.


    "Do your best to settle in. You can pick out a few Dao techniques to cultivate. I need to go into seclusion for a while," Fang Chen instructed.


    He signaled Pei Qingfeng with a look and left the hall.


    Pei Qingfeng hurriedly followed.


    "The Immortal Qin n and Langya n are about to go to war, which might affect the Grand Thousand Dao Sect. Keep an eye on things," Fang Chen said.


    "A war is really about to start?" Pei Qingfeng¡¯s eyebrows furrowed slightly, his expression solemn. He quickly nodded. "I will keep watch. If there¡¯s trouble I cannot handle.¡­"


    "I will have Little ck help."


    Pei Qingfeng realized the implications. "Martial Uncle, are you nning to travel far again?"


    "It depends," said Fang Chen, smiling.


    With that, he vanished into thin air.


    Fang Chen¡¯s retreat in the Grand Thousand Dao Sect was once a secluded courtyard where Ancestor Hong Qing stayed, featuring a private spirit spring and fertile fields, abundant in spiritual energy.


    During the years of Ancestor Hong Qing¡¯s disappearance, no disciple of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect, including Pei Qingfeng, dared to upy this ce.


    Entering the quiet room, Fang Chen took out the storage rings of Yue Long and Qin Nie and started to refine them.


    After half a day, he hadpletely refined the Soul Imprints on the storage rings and opened them to check inside.


    Yue Long¡¯s storage ring was orderly, containing several thousand low-grade spirit stones and one top-grade, yellow-rank spiritual treasure, along with a few technique scriptures and a Three Sr Fruit.


    Qin Nie¡¯s storage ring was somewhat unusual. Apart from some scattered low-grade spirit stones, which were unimportant, there were precisely three hundred mid-grade spirit stones! Moreover, there was a low-grade, profound rank spiritual treasure stored in the ring.


    Fang Chen was slightly astonished. "Qin Nie was only at the Foundation Building Realm and was favored by the Spirit Blood Sect. Yet, his possessions were much richer than those of a Nascent Soul Realm like the Surpassing Dragon Battle General?"


    Needless to say, these three hundred mid-grade spirit stones came just in time. Adding them, Fang Chen now had six hundred mid-grade spirit stones, enough for another venture into the Realm of Three Thousand Dao with some to spare.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 611: Re-entering the Three Thousand Dao Realm

    Fang Chen yed with the Three Sr Fruit for a while before tossing it back into his storage ring. This item was very precious. At the right time, it served as hard currency to a Dao Union Realm cultivator and was even more enticing than mid-grade spirit stones. Didn¡¯t Chu Lan mention that artifact masters had difficult temperaments? With the Three Sr Fruit, even the most difficult artifact master would be tempted.


    "Now, let¡¯s see if I can sessfully condense my Golden Core within the next ten years."


    Not long after Fang Chen consumed five hundred mid-grade spirit stones, he found himself back in the Realm of Three Thousand Dao. While performing the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture along with other techniques, he passed the spiritual treasures from the Surpassing Dragon Battle General and Qin Nie to Little Sword to devour and absorb.


    To Fang Chen, exhausting his spiritual energy was equivalent to cultivation. In fact, it was much faster than cultivation. Not only would it increase his proficiency in techniques, but it would also boost his cultivation level, which effectively saved him timepared to others.


    It took Little Sword a month to absorb the low-grade, profound-rank spiritual and the high-grade, yellow-rank spiritual treasures. With Little Sword assisting in performing the Eight Destion Supreme Sword Scripture, Fang Chen had to expend more spiritual energy, but his cultivation speed also elerated.


    A year passed in the blink of an eye. With his spiritual energy repeatedly depleting, recovering, and enhancing, Fang Chen¡¯s spiritual energy approached its limits.


    He roughly estimated that one year of cultivation in this manner might be equivalent to several decades or even a century of cultivation for others.


    Before long, Fang Chen noticed that his spiritual energy had stopped enhancing. It was then he realized that he had reached the peak of the grandpletion of the Foundation Building Realm and was on the verge of forming his Golden Core.


    Unlike the Foundation Building Realm, forming the Golden Core didn¡¯t require consuming any elixirs or pills. As long as the practiced cultivation method allowed for a breakthrough into the Golden Core Realm, then that was it.Fang Chen opened the drawer containing the Three Thousand Dao Art and picked up a jade slip. He examined it and saw the Golden Core chapter.


    The first step in the Golden Core chapter taught how to condense the Golden Core.


    "The Golden Core of the Three Thousand Dao Sect is divided into nine revolutions? Nine revolutions is the peak and one revolution is the most ordinary. ording to its description, even the most ordinary one revolution Golden Core Realm is stronger than the ordinary Golden Core Realm..." Fang Chen mused.


    Indeed, the Three Thousand Dao Art was a top cultivation technique, with every root foundation step far exceeding that of ordinary cultivators. With such a technique as the root foundation, if one''s cultivation advanced to higher realms, it would be difficult to find equals among peers.


    "My talent...at the very least should allow me to achieve above sixth revolutions. Perhaps there is a chance to break through to nine revolutions¡­" Fang Chen murmured to himself as he began his first attempt to form his Golden Core.


    He closed his eyes and started to mobilize the abundant spiritual energy in his meridians, guiding it through a profound path within his body.


    For a cultivator, forming the Golden Core was a process of spiritual energypression, aiming for a qualitative transformation through a quantitative one. The Golden Core formation technique was one method of spiritual energypression and these methods varied widely. Some would be simpler while others would be more difficult. The simpler the method, the lower the quality of the Golden Core.


    Given the choice to choose between the simpler and difficult methods, no one would opt for the simpler one. After all, this decision would be crucial to how far a cultivator could walk on the path of cultivation.


    The method inscribed in Three Thousand Dao Art was indeed among the most difficult. Fang Chen had to meticulously control his spiritual energy through an extremelyplex path. As the energy traveled, it began topress. When it finally converged in his Sea Core, a Golden Core formed.


    This process required stabilization for three months and he could not afford any external interference or even the slightest distraction during this period. Otherwise, the Golden Core would disintegrate and he would have to redo it again.


    Even if forming the Golden Core was sessful, a small w in the process could result in a third revolution and below Golden Core.


    In his first attempt, Fang Chen took five months just toplete the first step and form the Golden Core in his Sea Core. However, during the stabilization phase, the spiritual energy became extremely vtile, like a rebellious child constantly throwing tantrums.


    The process was mentally exhausting and even Fang Chen found it difficult to manage. A momentarypse in concentration led to the disintegration of the Golden Core, washing the six months of effort down the drain.


    Fang Chen sighed. "No wonder Golden Cores are so rare."


    With his superior divine soul and extraordinary Radiant Divine Eyes, his control over spiritual energy surpassed that of others in his realm by a significant margin. Despite these advantages, he still failed on his first attempt. It would be better to use simpler methods for other Golden Cores. For a ninth revolution Golden Core of the Three Thousand Dao Sect, it might take one or two hundred years. Or perhaps they might never seed at all.  ?


    After reviewing his mistakes, Fang Chen steeled his resolve and began his second attempt at forming the Golden Core.


    In his second attempt, Fang Chen once again spent five months progressing to the second step of forming the Golden Core. Having learned from his previous failure where he only managed to stabilize the Golden Core for ten days, this time he managed to hold out for one month before failing again. By this point in time, two years had passed since he entered the Realm of Three Thousand Dao.


    <em>Eight years left... It should be enough¡­.</em>


    Fang Chen closed his eyes and began his third attempt.


    The third attempt failed. So did the fourth, fifth, and countless more after that.


    Fang Chen could not remember the number of times he failed but now he only needed three months to reach the first step and in his second step, he could stabilize the Golden Core until only seven days remained before the required three months werepleted. However, the remaining seven days seemed like an insurmountable barrier.


    Each time he reached that point, the Golden Core would be extremely unstable before disintegrating.


    "What exactly am I doing wrong?" Fang Chen pondered, deep in thought.


    By now, more than nine years had passed. With just over six months remaining before he had to leave the Realm of Three Thousand Dao, Fang Chen was still stuck at the second step of the Golden Core stabilization phase.


    The remaining seven days felt like a roadblock to Fang Chen. He had no clue how t o ovee this hurdle. He knew that if there was a little breakthrough, he might be able to achieve the three-month stabilization phase in one go.


    "Little ck, Little White, both of you are experienced seniors in the Dao Sect. What do you think I''m doing wrong? Is my talent insufficient, thus making it this hard to form the Golden Core?" Fang Chen turned to them.


    When he noticed that he was repeatedly failing, he had asked the ck and white paper figures to observe. As outsiders, they might be able to see the things he couldn''t and hopefully be able to use their experience to help him solve the problem.


    The ck and white paper figures exchanged nces, their stiff faces showing a hint of an odd expression.


    The white paper figure spoke first. "Lord, your talent is definitely not the problem."


    The ck paper figure followed, "Lord, your foundation is also solid and your cultivation level is more than sufficient."


    The white paper figure continued, "Your application is also wless."


    The ck paper figure added, "And there''s no external interference."


    They looked at each other again and shook their heads simultaneously.


    "We can''t see any problems either. Maybe you should try again?"


    "You don¡¯t see any problems?" Fang Chen asked confusion.


    Suddenly, Mirror of the Universe¡¯s voice appeared, "Brother...."

 Chapter 612: Sword Core

    "Little Mirror, is there a problem with my cultivation technique?" Fang Chen immediately took out the Mirror of the Universe and asked seriously.


    "It''s not that the method is wrong... It''s just that the root foundation has a problem," the Mirror of the Universe hesitated to continue.


    "How many spirit stones will it cost?" Fang Chen quickly caught on.


    He still had several low grade spirit stones and a hundred mid grade spirit stones left. The Mirror of the Universe knew this and since it had spoken, the cost was probably within his means. Fang Chen had assumed that his root foundation was steady and sturdier than others all along. A problem in the root foundation was definitely not a trivial matter.


    "A hundred mid grade spirit stones will do," the Mirror of the Universe replied.


    "A hundred mid grade spirit stones? Is the problem so serious?" Fang Chen was confused.


    "Don''t take this lightly, brother. If you don''t resolve this problem, no matter what method you use, you won¡¯t be sessful in your golden core formation. Given your years of experience, once the problem is resolved, you''ll be able to form the golden core in one go," the Mirror of the Universe advised.


    Without further ado, Fang Chen handed over hisst hundred mid grade spirit stones to the mirror. This time, Little Sword remained obedient without a word of protest against the Mirror of the Universe. Perhaps this was because it had already consumed a profound rank low grade and a profound rank top grade spiritual treasure or perhaps it understood how crucial the golden core formation was to Fang Chen.


    After absorbing the hundred mid grade spirit stones, the Mirror of the Universe instructed Fang Chen to turn to page forty three."Condensing a Sword Core requires reversing the method of the golden core formation."


    This short statement left Fang Chen puzzled. Sword Core? He was after the golden core formation, so what was this Sword Core about?


    "Little Mirror, what is a Sword Core? How is it different from a Golden Core? And why should I be condensing and refining a Sword Core instead of a Golden Core?" Fang Chen asked with a furrowed brow.


    In his understanding, sword cultivators were powerful due to their techniques, but their cultivation methods should be the same as ordinary people. Just like how Jing Yuehan from the Void Immortal Sword Sect had formed a Golden Core and he had never heard of Fairy Yu mentioning that she had a Sword Core.


    "You may not be aware, but the path of sword cultivation is not limited to the lower realms. It''s also prevalent in the Immortal Realm. The Sword Core is a method that sword cultivators in the Immortal Realm follow. Even after ascending to the Immortal Realm, lower realm sword cultivators will always be weaker than those from the Immortal Realm due to foundational differences. When you initially formed your immortal sword vein, it was aligned with the path of Immortal Realm sword cultivators. Once you reach the Foundation Building Realm, you shouldn''t form a Golden Core but instead a Sword Core. Once the Sword Core is formed, your understanding of the Sword Dao will increase a hundredfold or more. You will grasp techniques that other sword cultivators struggle toprehend with ease and cultivate sword techniques that others cannot master," the Mirror of the Universe exined.


    Fang Chen was enlightened. He only needed to reverse the Golden Core formation method of the Three Thousand Dao Art to sessfully form a Sword Core?


    "Little Mirror, can anyone reverse the Golden Core formation method and form a Sword Core?"


    "They would need a foundation in sword cultivation, at least as strong as yours. Lower realm sword cultivators wouldn''t be able to do it as they''re stillcking in some aspects," the Mirror of the Universe replied.


    Fang Chen thought for a moment before asking, "If I use the Three Thousand Dao Art to condense a Sword Core, will it obstruct my Dao path in the future?"


    He knew that the Heavenly Abhorrence Technique was incredibly powerful and mysterious and did not want to forsake this path.


    "What obstacles could there be? Sword cultivation is just a path, not a specific cultivation method," the Mirror of the Universe exined."You¡¯ve been practicing the Three Thousand Dao Art from the beginning, so it won¡¯t interfere with your use of Dao Sect techniques. If anything, the Dao Sect path predates sword cultivation and has a deeper foundation. Using it as your primary path and sword cultivation as a supporting will only enhance your overall strength." ?


    With his concerns alleviated, Fang Chen began attempting the Reverse Cultivation Technique to form the Sword Core. The first step which he had previously mastered was now incredibly difficult when reversed. Not only was it easy to make mistakes, but the reversal of spiritual energy through his meridians caused him intense pain.


    Fortunately, his fourth rank sword body was equivalent to the Nascent Soul Realm so he could barely endure the pain caused by the reversal technique.


    Time passed slowly. After experiencing eight or nine failures, Fang Chen finally seeded inpleting the first step of the Reverse Cultivation Technique. The vast amount of spiritual energy within his Sea Core condensed into a translucent Sword Core. Now, he only needed to stabilize the Sword Core for three months to fully enter the Golden Core Realm.


    Just as he entered the second step, the ten year limit in the Realm of Three Thousand Dao had reached and Fang Chen was abruptly sent back to his meditation chamber.


    In the meditation chamber, the white paper figure stayed by his side silently while the ck paper figure slipped through the walls and appeared at the entrance of the courtyard.


    Li Daoye, who had been lurking around, was startled when the ck paper figure appeared. He immediately cupped his hands and bowed respectfully. "Master Hei, is the Lord here?"


    "The Lord is at a critical stage in his cultivation and is not seeing visitors at the moment," the ck paper figure responded coldly.


    Besides Fang Chen, it would not feel any emotions nor had patience towards any cultivators. To it, these cultivators were merely draped in ayer of human skin, a spiritual material to boost their cultivation levels.


    "I see. Then I¡¯lle backter," Li Daoye said thoughtfully before he left.


    After he had walked a distance, he nced back at the immortal cave where Fang Chen resided and muttered to himself, "These ck and white paper figures clearly have their own consciousness, yet they imed it¡¯s just Dao techniques. Did Lord Fang bind them as spirit servants with the Skin Peeling Technique?"


    He had just selected the Dao Art cultivation yesterday, particrly the Spiritual Attachment Technique. The core essence behind this technique was the refinement of spirit servant.


    "Never mind. If they¡¯ve been turned into spirit servants by Lord Fang, they¡¯re probably not good people to begin with," Li Daoye muttered as he walked off, unaware that the ck paper figure was still watching him.


    Two months passed in the blink of an eye. In the council hall, Pei Qingfeng sat in the main seat as he looked at the elders of each peak with a grim expression.


    "Ancestor, the Azure Dao Manor is inplete chaos now. Ordinary people are also involved in the war. In just two months, we¡¯ve already heard that over ten middle three realm beings have fallen and many Nascent Soul Realm and Golden Core Realm cultivators have perished..." Guan E said worriedly. "I¡¯m afraid that some Dao sects might take this opportunity to attack us. Should we activate the Mountain Locking Grand Formation to avoid this cmity?"


    "Elder Guan, this activation is not something to be done lightly. Not only would it consume a massive number of spirit stones, we would be locked in and unable to leave for a hundred years once it is activated," Elder Xu said with a frown. "We need to consider this matter carefully."


    "Yes, yes, we shouldn¡¯t activate the Mountain Locking Grand Formation lightly. That would be equivalent to imprisoning ourselves," Li Daoye quickly added.


    Pei Qingfeng nced at him, then sighed softly. He took out a letter and handed it to everyone.


    After everyone had read the letter, their expressions turned grim. It was a military order issued by the Qin family demanding the Grand Thousand Dao Sect to send one Golden Core Realm cultivator, five Foundation Building Realm cultivators and four hundred Qi Refining Realm cultivators to the battlefield.


    "Four hundred Qi Refining Realm cultivators!? The Grand Thousand Dao Sect has just over four hundred Inner Sect disciples in total!" Elder Xu hollered as his eyes reddened with anger.


    Pei Qingfeng sighed deeply and exined, "The letter stated that we have to reach the Parting Fiery Dao Sect within ten days. If not, we will be considered enemies and our entire sect will be exterminated."

 Chapter 613: Military Order Letter

    Elder Xu clenched his fists angrily as he paced the council hall. "The Qin family has gone mad, haven''t they? Are they trying to wipe out the Grand Thousand Dao Sect?"


    Guan¡¯e and the others had grim expressions. A few elderly Foundation Building Realm cultivators exchanged looks and sighed quietly. They stood up and said defeatingly, "We are willing to go."


    The mood in the room shifted as the others looked on with concern. These Foundation Building Realm cultivators, nearing the end of their lifespans, seemed prepared to sacrifice themselves to preserve the power of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect. In such a war, Foundation Building Realm and Qi Refining Realm cultivators were more endangered than mortals. At the very least, nine out of ten cultivators would die.


    Elder Xu''s eyes glistened with tears as he looked at Pei Qingfeng. "Ancestor, is there no other way? We can bear the loss of a few of us, but four hundred Qi Refining Realm cultivators¡­ That¡¯s the foundation of our sect! We''ve invested many spirit stones and spiritual materials in nurturing them, hoping some would advance to Foundation Building Realm andter to Golden Core. If they all die, the sect will be ruined!"


    Upon this sight, Li Daoye couldn''t help but curse the Spirit Blood Sect silently. Sadly, he had no solutions to offer.


    "Hasn''t Uncle Master visited the Qin family? Perhaps he has some connections..." Guan¡¯e suggested quietly.


    Pei Qingfeng shook his head gently. "Uncle Master is in seclusion. We have no means of contacting him."


    "Well¡­ I do know the Qin family''s First Lady, Chu Lan. Perhaps I can go and inquire about the situation?" Li Daoye offered.


    Everyone turned to look at Li Daoye with hopeful lights in their eyes."There''s no time," Pei Qingfeng said, shaking his head. "A round trip would take at least a month. The military order only gave us ten days. We must depart today."


    The room fell silent.


    "It might not be a dead end. If the war can end quickly, we might be able to save a significant portion of our people and avoid harming the foundation of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect," Pei Qingfeng reassured everyone.


    He selected five Foundation Building Realm cultivators, including Elder Xu, Elder Huang, and the three elderly people whose lifespans were nearly exhausted.


    Elder Huang looked fearful. He said in a trembling voice, "Ancestor, can I not go? My cultivation isn¡¯t up to par anyway...."


    Elder Xu''s expression darkened. He was just about to rebuke him when Li Daoye interjected.


    "Master, let me rece Elder Huang. After my recent advancement to Foundation Building Realm, I haven''t had much of a chance to fight, so this would be a good opportunity," Li Daoye offered with a bow.


    The crowd looked at Li Daoye with surprise. <em>This seemingly frivolous andzy individual is volunteering to take on the task?</em>


    "Are you sure?" Pei Qingfeng asked puzzledly.


    "Yes. I am skilled in divination and know how to avoid danger and seek opportunities. Under my leadership, the chances of survival for our Grand Thousand Dao Sect''s cultivators would greatly increase. Since Lord Fang is in seclusion, it¡¯s only right that I help in his stead," Li Daoye replied.


    Pei Qingfeng thought for a moment and then slowly nodded in agreement.


    "Very well. Then you will go in ce of Elder Huang. Prepare yourself and join us at once. The rest of us will set out immediately."


    An hourter, everyone was fully prepared and set out. Led by Pei Qingfeng, they rushed toward the Parting Fiery Dao Sect.


    Before leaving, Elder Huang was very grateful to Li Daoye for taking his ce on the battlefield. He gave Li Daoye a considerable amount of spirit stones, talismans, and even a mid-grade, yellow-rank spiritual treasure.


    With four hundred Qi Refining cultivators dispatched, the inner pce of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect became even more deste and silent, with very few people remaining.


    Several dayster, Elder Huang flew toward Fang Chen''s immortal cave but was stopped halfway by the ck paper figure.


    "What is the matter?" the ck paper figure asked coldly.


    Elder Huang immediately sped his hands respectfully. "Senior ck, the Qin family has dispatched several hundred of our sect''s cultivators to participate in the war. I believe this matter must be reported to Lord Fang."


    "The lord is in seclusion and cannot be disturbed. I will pass on the message once he finishes his training," the ck paper figure replied.


    "Cannot be disturbed?" Elder Huang was slightly taken aback but nodded. "In that case, I will trouble you, Senior ck. I will take my leave now."


    The ck paper figure watched Elder Huang leave and only turned away after he was out of sight.


    Back at his immortal cave, Elder Huang immediately reported to a green-robed middle-aged man with a sped fist. "Sir, Fang Chen is indeed in seclusion and cannot be disturbed. The ck and white paper figures are guarding him."


    "Are the two paper figures produced from the Spiritual Attachment Technique?"


    the green-robed middle-aged man asked.


    Elder Huang looked troubled. "I don¡¯t know for sure, but the Profound Ghost Dao Sect has simr methods. It should be rted to the Spiritual Attachment Technique."


    "The Innate Five Lightning Art, Spiritual Attachment Technique, Eight Trigrams Formation¡­ Heh, no doubt he is Hong Qing¡¯s disciple. I wonder what other Dao Sect techniques he possesses."


    The middle-aged man chuckled lightly. "As for the ck and white paper figures, if you say they can kill Golden Core Realm cultivators like ughtering chickens then they must be as powerful as Nascent Souls. They are not to be worried about."


    "Sir, should we strike now? It might be better if I observe for a while longer. Perhaps I can uncover more secrets," Elder Huang said softly.


    "No need. Hong Qing is currently at the Great Expansion Dao Gate and I don¡¯t have the means to locate him there. Now that his disciple has returned to the Grand Thousand Dao Sect, this is an opportunity for me. As long as this matter is handled well, I¡¯m confident that I will be promoted to Viscount."


    The middle-aged man smiled. "You¡¯ll also be making a contribution this time. You may not need to stay at the Grand Thousand Dao Sect any longer. If you are lucky enough, you might be directly transferred to the royal manor."


    Elder Huang was delighted. Even if he only became a small soldier at the royal manor, the prospects would be far better than staying at the Grand Thousand Dao Sect!


    "By the way, besides you, what about the other four Foundation Building Realm cultivators? Have you gathered any information about them?"


    "They should also be spies from the various Grand Dao sects, but I don¡¯t know their specific origins. However, Guan¡¯e... she might be clean," Elder Huang answered, his voice low.


    "If we strike, they will definitely send word back to the mastermind. So we need to handle this matter swiftly. We cannot offer them too much time."


    The middle-aged man¡¯s lips curved into a slight smile. "After this is over, we will both receive des and have a bright future. I believe there is something in that stone box that the Ninth Prince desires."


    Elder Huang looked excited. "Sir, when will we strike?"


    "Today!"


    Hearing that, Elder Huang was thrilled and excited.


    Before long, he and the middle-aged man charged forcefully into Fang Chen¡¯s immortal cave.


    As they burst inside, they saw the ck paper figure sitting on a stone bench. "You¡¯vee."


    It didn¡¯t seem surprised at their arrival, merely ncing at them casually.


    Elder Huang had witnessed the ck paper figure¡¯s methods before and felt some trepidation. However, he found sce in the fact that his superior was a Middle Three Realms expert who had reached the Enlightenment Realm fifty years ago. He reassured himself that nothing would go wrong.


    With this thought, Elder Huang grew calm.


    "Oh? You knew we wereing?"


    The middle-aged man calmly observed the ck paper figure before sitting down opposite him with a smile.


    The aura of the ck paper figure was different from ordinary cultivators. It was clearly just a spirit servant. He wondered how strong Fang Chen could be. However, he didn¡¯t expect much. Hong Qing, Fang Chen¡¯s master, had only been at the Nascent Soul Realm stage back then.


    As for this spirit servant, even if it had a bit of skill, it wouldn¡¯t over the Lower Four Realms.

 Chapter 614: Three Months

    The ck paper figure nced at Elder Huang and tly said, "That guy was way too sneaky. I could tell he¡¯s up to no good with a nce."


    Elder Huang grew embarrassed. He had been too conspicuous it seemed.


    "You must be a spirit servant left by Hong Qing, right? Are you truly willing to serve a junior?" The middle-aged man smiled faintly. "Why not join me? It¡¯s a path to a more promising future."


    "You?" The ck paper figure smiled stiffly. "May I ask who you are? How would joining hands with you lead to a great future?"


    The middle-aged man pointed to the sky. "You don¡¯t need to know too much. Just understand I have people behind me."


    The ck paper figure was surprised. "You have the Heavenly Dao behind you?"


    The middle-aged man frowned slightly and snorted coldly. "Cut the crap. Call out the other spirit servant and bring out your master for me. I have questions for him. I prefer to handle matters diplomatically before resorting to violence. I hope you won¡¯t disappoint me."


    "Why haven¡¯t you dealt with them yet? The lord is on the verge of forming his Golden Core. No mistakes can be allowed."


    The white paper figure, who had appeared behind the middle-aged man stealthily, looked at the ck paper figure with displeasure."I want to understand their origins. It will save trouble for the lord once he¡¯s out," the ck paper figure said.


    The middle-aged man¡¯s brows furrowed slightly. "Enough with the games."


    However, a hint of wariness shed in his eyes. He hadn¡¯t noticed the white paper figure¡¯s appearance at all. Its speed was indeed impressive.


    "Master, since Seniors ck and White wish to know your background, we might as well let them know," said Elder Huang in a low voice.


    The middle-aged man gazed at the ck and white paper figures. "I am working for the Ninth King."


    He believed this statement would be shocking enough for the two spirit servants.


    The Ninth King, an Immortal King expert, held a ce on the Emperor Ranking. Even a Profound Immortal would have to respect a figure like that, let alone a mere spirit servant.


    "The Ninth King? Never heard of him."


    The paper figures shook their heads slightly.


    The middle-aged grew furious. "How could you not have heard of the Ninth King?"


    How dare they show disrespect to the Ninth King! This was an offense punishable by exterminating their nine ns!


    At that moment, the middle-aged man¡¯s aura surged, resembling an ancient ferocious beast about to tear the two spirit servants apart.


    Elder Huang sighed lightly. "Seniors, there¡¯s no need to act this way. Master is a kindhearted person. There¡¯s no need to force him into taking action.¡­"


    <em>Pfft, pfft!</em>


    Suddenly, two bloody holes appeared on the middle-aged man¡¯s body. His heart and kidney had been dug out by the two paper figures. Each one of them held an organ.


    The middle-aged man¡¯s aura dispersed as quickly as it had appeared.


    Before the middle-aged man could react, the two paper figures dug out more of his organs.


    "Don¡¯t kill him yet. Capture him alive for the lord¡¯s questioning. They must be targeting the Three Thousand Dao Sect by infiltrating the Grand Thousand Dao Sect," the white paper figure said.


    The ck paper figure nodded slightly. With a wave of its sleeve, a ck paper chain rushed at the middle-aged man and wrapped around him tightly.


    The middle-aged man, bound by the ck chain, found his qi suppressed. He was unable to muster even a sliver of his power.


    At this moment, he felt like he had returned to being a mortal. Not only could he not use any techniques, but he did not even have the strength to struggle.


    Elder Huang stared nkly at the scene, his face leaching off blood. He quickly became paler than the white paper figure.


    "What about him?" the ck paper figure casually asked.


    Elder Huang¡¯s legs gave out and he fell to his knees. "Seniors, please spare me, please spare me!"


    "Kneel at the door," the white paper figuremanded.


    "Yes!"


    Elder Huang nodded vigorously as he scrambled to the door to kneel. He heard the white paper figure¡¯s voice from behind.


    "Not at the door. Kneel facing the wall."


    "Yes!"


    Elder Huang moved to the side and knelt in front of the wall.


    "I think his cultivation is quite low. He probably doesn¡¯t know much. It¡¯s better to kill him," said the ck paper figure.


    Elder Huang trembled. He quickly rejoined, "I know a lot of things. Please, seniors, show mercy. Let Lord Fang deal with me after his seclusion."


    "Keep him alive until the lord questions him," the white paper figure said, turning and entering Fang Chen¡¯s meditation room.


    Elder Huang sighed with relief and discreetly peered at the middle-aged man.


    The man he feared the most was now reduced to a helpless state. He was sprawled on the floor like a worm.


    "You¡­ You must release me! I am a guest elder of the Ninth King¡¯s manor. If you dare to treat me with such disrespect, be careful that the Ninth King brings his people to tten this ce," threatened the middle-aged man.


    His tone was shaky.


    The ck paper figure nced at Elder Huang. "Who is the Ninth King and what is his cultivation level?¡±


    "The Ninth King presides over the Western Continent Region and is an Immortal King expert," Elder Huang answered.


    The ck paper figure nodded thoughtfully. "An Immortal King? Ascension Realm? Hmm, no wonder you are so confident."


    Given that their former master was merely an Ascension Realm expert, an Immortal King expert was indeed considered top in the Central Continent Region.


    "Now that you know, release me at once! As long as I am allowed to leave safely, I can forgo this incident. Return my heart too¡­."


    The middle-aged man¡¯s face was pale as he begged. His eyes were fixed on the organs the ck paper figure was holding, particrly the heart. This was the one organ he desperately wanted back.


    "Senior ck, don¡¯t listen to his nonsense. He¡¯s merely at the Enlightenment Realm. The Ninth King wouldn¡¯t even be aware of such a minor character," Elder Huang interrupted.


    The middle-aged man blew his top. "Huang Genxiao, the audacity of you!"


    "Master, do you not understand the situation you¡¯re in?" Elder Huang said sternly. "If it weren¡¯t for you, how could I have ended up in this dire state? You wish to die here? By all means. Just don''t drag me down with you. I am just a Foundation Building Realm cultivator. Even if there are benefits, how much can I gain? Maybe I¡¯ll have adle of the soup. No, I¡¯d be lucky if I got to lick a leftover bowl!"


    "You!"


    The middle-aged man seethed with anger, his face growing paler by the second.


    "You don''t need to waste words. Just wait. The lord will soon finish forming his Golden Core. Whether you live or die, it will depend on his mood," the ck paper figure said before ignoring the two.


    In the meditation room, Fang Chen waspletely absorbed in focusing all his attention on the ¡®Sword Core¡¯ in his Sea Core.


    Unknowingly, he had already stabilized the Sword Core for two and a half months. In another half month, he would fully enter the Golden Core Realm phase.


    Days passed by.


    Two months and twenty days.


    Two months and twenty-three days.


    Two months and twenty-four days!


    The Sword Core showed no signs of disintegration and remained stable.


    Fang Chen breathed a deep sigh of relief.


    The Reverse Technique was indeed effective.


    Previously in the Realm of Three Thousand Dao, every time he reached this stage, it would inevitably disintegrate and lead to failure.


    Two months and twenty-five days!


    Two months and twenty-eight days!


    Three months!


    The stabilization phase had beenpleted!


    Suddenly, the surrounding Heaven and Earth spiritual energy went into a frenzy. It surged into the meditation room like a dragon drawing water, flooding into Fang Chen¡¯s ¡®Sword Core.¡¯

 Chapter 615: Core Formed

    "Huh, where has all the heaven and earth spiritual energy gone to?!"


    "It hasn''t disappeared. It''s gone over there!"


    "That¡¯s where Lord Fang is at!"


    Guan''e and the other elders stepped out of their immortal caves and looked toward Fang Chen''s location with astonishment.


    Although the inner sanctum of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect wasn''t a top immortal cave or blessednd, its spiritual energy was still quite substantial. Now, all the spiritual energy had been drained. No ordinary cultivators could possibly do something like this!


    <em>Is Lord Fang practicing some kind of technique? Or...has he broken through? </em>Guan''e pondered silently.


    ***


    The ck and white paper figures were delighted. "The Lord has sessfully formed the Golden Core."


    The white paper figure observed the continuous influx of heaven and earth spiritual energy into the meditation room and remarked, "The lord¡¯s Golden Core is extraordinary. It might even be above six revolutions."The ck paper figure''s expression was somber. "Our previous master had once spected that if his Golden Core was above six revolutions, he might have been able to ascend to the Immortal Realm, rather thannguishing in this realm."


    The middle-aged man and Elder Huang had been shocked by the sudden change in the spiritual energy of heaven and earth, but when they heard the ck paper figure¡¯s words, they were even more shocked.


    "Ascend to the Immortal Realm? What right does Hong Qing have to ascend to the Immortal Realm! Wait a minute! With their abilities, they can''t possibly be Hong Qing¡¯s spirit servants... Who are they actually serving?"


    The middle-aged man¡¯s face was filled with terror.


    He suddenly realized that many powerful Dao Sects were secretly watching the Grand Thousand Dao Sect. <em>Could it be that these two paper figures were sent by an Immortal Court-level Dao Sect!?</em>


    The middle-aged man''s face turned ashen. "This is bad... I should have thought things through before acting so impulsively...."


    If they were from the Celestial Court, their influence would be on par with the royal manor. Even the Ninth King would treat Immortal Kings from the Celestial Court as equals and wouldn''t dare to use the Central Continent Empire¡¯s power to intimidate them.


    The middle-aged man slowly spoke in a weak voice. "You two are¡ª"


    "Be quiet."


    The ck and white paper figures spoke in unison.


    The middle-aged man immediately shut up and dared not say more. He could only wait for the person in seclusion toe out and he had already thought of a way to save his life once that person emerged.


    He hoped that the other party wouldn''t want to make an enemy of the Ninth King¡¯s royal manor.


    Several days passed.


    Guan''e and the remaining dozens of inner disciples gathered near Fang Chen¡¯s immortal cave.


    For eight days, all the spiritual energy in the inner pce had been drawn into this ce, making it impossible for them to absorb any spiritual energy or practice their cultivation.


    "Elder Guan¡¯e, you are close to Lord Fang. Do you know what he is doing? Is he practicing some kind of technique?" one elder asked thoughtfully.


    Guan''e shook her head gently. "I don''t know what Lord Fang is doing, but he must certainly have achieved some significant understanding to cause such an anomaly." ?


    "We''ve been unable to absorb any spiritual energy for eight days. If it''s a technique, it''s way too domineering. If it''s a breakthrough of a realm, it shouldn¡¯t cause such an anomaly," someone whispered.


    "Just wait quietly. No matter what, it''s good for us. The ancestors have been away for many days and their situation is reportedly not very good." Guan''e sighed. "Once Lord Fang emerges from seclusion, his presence might improve the situation for the ancestors."


    Someone else also sighed softly. "Indeed¡­."


    Another day passed.


    The surrounding heaven and earth spiritual energy, which had been surging into Fang Chen''s location like a frenzy, gradually returned to normal.


    Everyone''s spirits lifted. This indicated that Lord Fang was about to emerge from seclusion!


    In the meditation room, Fang Chen shut his eyes tightly and quietly sensed the ''Sword Core'' in his Sea Core, which was the size of a dragon''s eye. It seemed no different from a regr Golden Core, but the spiritual energy it released carried a sharp, sword-like quality.


    The Sword Core was produced from thepression of spiritual energy. Even a small release of its spiritual energy wasparable to the spiritual energy from the grandpletion of the Foundation Building Realm.


    If fully exacerbated, the density of the spiritual energy would be beyond Fang Chen''s ability to precisely gauge. However, one thing was certain for sure. The spiritual energy within him would be vastly superior to that of an ordinary beginning Golden Core Realm by a factor of a hundred or more.


    After he stood up and left the meditation room, he saw the ck and white paper figures congratting and bowing in respect to him.


    "Congrattions Lord on sessfully forming the Golden Core Realm!"


    Fang Chen smiled. "You''re too kind."


    He then looked at the middle-aged man and the cornered Elder Huang in confusion.


    "Who are these two?"


    The ck paper figure nced at the middle-aged man and responded, "Lord, they im to be from the Ninth King¡¯s royal manor."


    "Oh? The Nine Generation King¡¯s Manor?"


    Fang Chen was surprised. "Since they are from the royal manor, they should be treated with respect. You should remove his chains."


    The middle-aged man had been about to speak when he saw Fang Chen''s attitude turn meek upon hearing about the Ninth King¡¯s royal manor.


    His thoughts shifted and his anger bubbled, palpable on his face.


    "You can¡¯t even properly manage your spirit servants. They attacked me directly upon seeing me, without even giving me a chance to speak."


    Fang Chen waved his hand. "Wait, don¡¯t remove the chains just yet."


    He looked at the middle-aged man and smiled at him. "Are you trying to teach me how to do things?"


    "M-me?" The middle-aged man was momentarily stunned as panic shed in his eyes. He quickly exined, "Please don¡¯t misunderstand. I was just¡ª"


    Fang Chen interrupted, "Alright, tell me why you are here."


    Seeing that Fang Chen had no intention of unshackling him, the middle-aged man suppressed his anger and answered, "I came here because¡ª"


    "Lord Fang, let me exin. He came here because he assumed that as a disciple of Ancestor Hong Qing, you must be aware of the secrets held by Ancestor Hong Qing. Since the ancestor is suspected to have obtained the true teachings of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect..." Elder Huang interjected.


    "You traitor!" The middle-aged man red at Elder Huang. "Just wait to be crushed into ashes and torn apart by the royal manor!"


    Elder Huang ignored himpletely as he continued to tter Fang Chen.


    "And you? What is your true identity?" Fang Chen asked with a knowing smile.


    "Actually, before I joined the Grand Thousand Dao Sect, I was involved in bureaucracy. I was tasked by this person to act as a spy to secretly monitor the Grand Thousand Dao Sect," Elder Huang answered. "Please don¡¯t misunderstand. I know for a fact you have nothing to do with Daoist Hong Qing Daoist. He can¡¯t nurture someone like you."


    The middle-aged man nced at the ck and white paper figures and whispered, "Indeed, Ie from the Ninth King¡¯s royal manor. The Ninth King has always been devoted to the Dao path since young and he longs to know everything about the Dao Sect. As his loyal servant, I only wish to help the Ninth King by finding more techniques and methods rted to the Dao Sect."


    "The stone box! He came here for that stone box! The stone box once belonged to the Ninth King¡¯s royal manor, but it could not be opened and was secretly sent back. He learned that Lord Fang could open this stone box so he came here personally to kill Lord Fang and seize the treasure!" Elder Huang interrupted hastily.


    The middle-aged man¡¯s face turned ashen with rage. He looked at Elder Huang with his eyes spitting fire and teeth clenched. If looks could kill, Elder Huang would¡¯ve died a hundred times over.


    Fang Chen nced at Elder Huang and pondered, "Are you saying...that they previously had possession over this stone box? They couldn¡¯t open it so they returned it?"

 Chapter 616: Drawing the Disaster Elsewhere

    Elder Huang¡¯s words helped Fang Chen understand the various sects¡¯ attitudes toward the Grand Thousand Dao Sect. The contempt, disdain, and observation in the dark all stemmed from the past events rted to the Three Thousand Dao Sect.


    Elder Huang nodded repeatedly. "Yes, yes, that stone box had indeed been circted among many sects. However, since they had failed to open it, they had no choice but to return it. They had been waiting for someone who could open it to appear. This way, they can swoop over and snatch their fruits ofbor!"


    Fang Chen sighed inwardly. Given that Pei Qingfeng was only at the early stage of the Golden Core Realm, there was no need for the factions to send out Middle Three Realms experts; a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator could easily navigate the Grand Thousand Dao Sect without being detected.


    Before his arrival, the Grand Thousand Dao Sect had to have been visited countless times by these factions. Perhaps Pei Qingfeng had long been aware but chose not to reveal it for the greater good.


    "Huang Genxiao, your life is about to end." The middle-aged man sneered repeatedly, looking at Elder Huang as if he were a dead man.


    "My lord, you are an Enlightenment Realm expert, and yet you are in such a state. I am merely a Foundation Building Realm cultivator. Whether I live or die is of no concern to me; what matters is the present," Elder Huang responded with a cold smile.


    Fang Chen delved into the various factions'' perspectives on the stone box. Through Elder Huang¡¯s answers and the reactions of the middle-aged man, he reached a rather reassuring conclusion.


    The various parties were interested in the stone box as it likely contained techniques or methods at the level of Dao Union, believing it might contain techniques or methods of that level. Thus, after the stone box had been ¡®borrowed¡¯ and circted among the factions, they all returned it to its original ce, waiting for someone to open it and then seize the opportunity.


    If they knew that the Stone Bead inside represented the Three Thousand Dao Realm, even Immortal Kings would personally intervene, let alone Profound Immortals. To be able to spend ten years inside with only one day passing outside with mere spirit stones was an unimaginable advantage. How horrifying was that? For the talented, the Three Thousand Dao Realm was a top-notch opportunity.


    In the hands ofckluster individuals, these benefits wouldn¡¯t be much.


    A cultivator¡¯s lifespan continues to tick inside the Three Thousand Dao Realm. Fang Chen had entered it twice, meaning he was twenty years older now. For those with insufficient talent, staying in the Three Thousand Dao Realm would only mean they¡¯d be racing to their death.


    "How many spies like you are left in the Grand Thousand Dao Sect?" Fang Chen asked with a faint smile.


    "Martial Uncle Fang, other than me who¡¯s working for the Ninth King, there are no other spies. However, I cannot guarantee the number of spies sent from elsewhere. The only certainty is that among the five Foundation Building Realm cultivators currently in the Grand Thousand Dao Sect, besides Guan¡¯e, are all spies."


    Elder Huang said, "Some spies are below the Foundation Building Realm and were merely in the Qi Refining Realm and they hide even deeper, seldom revealing their true selves."


    Fang Chen turned a little speechless. ncing at the middle-aged man and Elder Huang, he waved his sleeve, and a streak of green light entered their bodies.


    The next moment, Elder Huang¡¯s skin was directly peeled off. Seeing that, the white paper figure took the initiative to step forward and put on the skin.


    Fang Chen looked at the white paper figure, now looking exactly like Elder Huang. "Don¡¯t refine his skin yet."


    The middle-aged man, although at the Enlightenment Realm, could not resist Fang Chen¡¯s Skin Peeling Technique due to the suppression of the ck paper figure. After he was skinned, the ck paper figure wore his skin.


    Outside, including Guan¡¯e, the four Foundation Building cultivators who had noticed the end of the anomaly were nning to approach and see if Fang Chen had exited his closed-door meditation. Instead, they heard an angry shout and saw the middle-aged man, along with the familiar Elder Huang, break through the air,ughing maniacally as they disappeared from view.


    "What¡¯s happening?"


    They were stunned.


    The three elders, Guan¡¯e excluded, wore disturbed expressions.


    "This is bad; someone has broken into the Grand Thousand Dao Sect¡¯s inner sanctum!"


    Guan¡¯e realized what had happened and shouted, turning into a streak of lightning as she flew toward Fang Chen¡¯s cave dwelling. The other three Foundation Building Realm cultivators exchanged looks with unnatural expressions before following her.


    They arrived at the cave entrance just in time to see Fang Chen emerge with a grim face.


    Guan¡¯e quickly cupped her hands in respect. "Martial Uncle Fang, what happened just now? Why did Elder Huang and an unfamiliar cultivator leave together from your ce?"


    Fang Chen replied coldly, "Elder Huang broke into my closed-door meditation space and stole the stone box."


    "What!" Guan¡¯e panicked. "That¡¯s something Elder Hong Qing left behind; the contents inside...."


    "Everything was stolen. Why did Elder Huang collude with outsiders? Do you know anything about this?" Fang Chen sneered. "It seems he was the spy from the Profound Ghost Dao Sect."


    Guan¡¯e gritted her teeth in anger. "I didn¡¯t expect Elder Huang to be this kind of person."


    "This is really despicable."


    "Traitors!"


    "A real ingrate!"


    The other three Foundation Building Realm cultivators also burst into curses.


    Fang Chen¡¯s expression was dark. "The ones who acted were very strong. I couldn¡¯t even block a single move. They clearly came prepared, and it¡¯s likely that what Master left me can¡¯t be recovered."


    Guan¡¯e didn¡¯t know what words to use tofort him or whether she should mention the military order letter right now. She hesitated, looking conflicted.


    "Elder Guan, if you have something to say, please say it."


    Fang Chen seemed to have calmed down, his tone returning to a more peaceful state.


    "Martial Uncle, it¡¯s about the military order letter¡­" Guan¡¯e spoke softly about the situation, her face showing concern. "I¡¯ve heard that the situation on the battlefield is not good. I¡¯m afraid that ancestor might be in danger.¡­"


    Fang Chen¡¯s eyes flickered. "Where is the Parting Fiery Dao Sect? I¡¯ll go there personally."


    He had anticipated that the Grand Thousand Dao Sect would be dragged into the battle, but he hadn¡¯t expected it to happen so soon. After just a few months of fighting, the Qin Family had started mobilizing cultivators of the Foundation Building Realm and Golden Core Realm to the battlefield, indicating that the situation was extremely tense and that a war of attrition was about to begin.


    Fortunately, Li Daoye had followed along, and with his skill in divination and fortune-telling, he was responsible for ensuring good luck and avoiding misfortune. The situation for Pei Qingfeng and the others should be alright.


    After Guan¡¯e told him the directions to the Parting Fiery Dao Sect, Fang Chen had them disperse.


    The several Foundation Building Realm cultivators each returned to their own caves. Except for Guan¡¯e, the other three burned a transmission talisman at the same time.


    <em>The item has been obtained by the Ninth King¡¯s Mansion.</em>


    Fang Chen¡¯s divine spirit smiled and turned to leave.


    He did not n to deal with the three Foundation Building Realm cultivators. Regardless of where they came from, since their identities were exposed, they were far more valuable alive than dead.


    The ck and white paper figures came to Fang Chen with an enigmatic smile.


    "Lord, we shouldn¡¯t have exposed ourselves, right?"


    "They are only Foundation Building Realm cultivators. They wouldn¡¯t be able to tell anything," Fang Chen replied, smiling.


    The white paper figure¡¯s face showed a hint of anticipation. "Good. By the way, lord, how many revolutions has your Golden Core achieved?"


    The ck paper figure¡¯s eyes were also filled with curiosity.


    "Revolutions?"


    Fang Chen raised his brows. He didn¡¯t know if his sword core had any concept of revolutions at all.


    "Why don¡¯t you help me check? You have experience," Fang Chen said.


    He opened his mouth and a Golden Core emitting a bright white light appeared in front of the ck and white paper figures.


    The expressions of the ck and white paper figures changed slightly.


    "This¡­!"

 Chapter 617: White Core

    <h4>Chapter 617: White Core</h4>


    Fang Chen was a little surprised. ¡°Little White, Little ck, is there something wrong with my core?¡±


    The ck and white paper figures¡¯ reactions indicated they had noticed something.


    <i>Did they recognize the sword core?</i>


    The white paper figure¡¯s expression stiffened. ¡°Lord... this isn¡¯t right....¡±


    It circled around the Golden Core, looking increasingly perplexed.


    ¡°This Golden Core... seems to be a ¡®White Core¡¯....¡± said the ck paper figure, its gaze flickering.


    The ck paper figure seemed hesitant to say more.


    ¡°Please say it directly,¡± Fang Chen urged.


    The white paper figure sighed softly. ¡°A White Core is the most ordinary type of Golden Cores, and the easiest to refine. Typically, only thosecking in talent or nearing the end of their lifespan would choose to refine a White Core....¡±


    The ck paper figure continued, ¡°A cultivator who refines a White Core will have their path to cultivationrgely cut off. They might only reach the Nascent Soul Realm at most. Moreover, a White Core cultivator''s strength is merely one-third of a normal Golden Core cultivator''s. This type of core was referred to as a ¡®Pseudo-Golden Core¡¯ in the past....¡±


    After a pause, the ck paper figure shifted its tone. ¡°Of course, with your talents and qualifications, my lord, it is impossible to refine a White Core. Since the lord employs the Three Thousand Dao''s method, it should not result in a White Core. There must be another reason why this core resembles a White Core...¡±


    The white paper figure nodded in agreement. However, it was clear that both of them were worried.


    If this Golden Core truly was a White Core... what should they do?


    A White Core was the pr opposite of the Nine-Revolution Golden Core. This type of core would only be seen on the most casual of Golden Core cultivators.


    They knew there was no way this could be a White Core.


    Fang Chen¡¯s face showed a hint of a smile as he inquired Mirror of the Universe about the difference between the Sword Core and the Nine-Revolution Golden Core.


    ¡°The Nine Revolution Golden Core is reputed as the most powerful Golden Core in the lower realms. In reality, there are a few other cores withparable power. However, the Nine Revolution Golden Core certainly holds a high status even in the Immortal Realm, and it is roughly at the same level as the Sword Core,¡± replied Mirror of the Universe.


    Fang Chen felt relieved. Since the Sword Core''s power was not weaker than that of the Nine Revolution Golden Core, then his foundation was solid. That¡¯s all that mattered.


    ***


    A few dayster, Fang Chen arrived near the Parting Fiery Dao Sect.


    In the past few days, he had witnessed thirteen battles between cultivators. Among them, one was particrlyrge-scale, involving several Golden Core Realm cultivators, dozens of Foundation Building Realm cultivators, and hundreds of Qi Refining cultivators.


    The remaining twelve battles were smaller in scale, with only seven or eight cultivators fighting at a time. On one side were the cultivators of the Immortal Qin n, and on the other side were the cultivators of the Langya n.


    It was clear that this was the territory of the Immortal Qin n. The fact that the enemy had already breached their defenses indicated that the ns of the Qin Family ancestor had been thoroughly disrupted.


    Initially, it was thought that the war would only affect cultivators. However, as Fang Chen got closer to the Parting Fiery Dao Sect, he realized that even mortals and martial artists were being dragged into the conflict.


    Both the Immortal Qin and Langya ns were using their own local martial artists to rece the enemy''s local martial artists, aiming to achieve territorial expansion. By doing so, they hoped topletely sever the possibility of a counterattack.


    Calcting the time, the war had been ongoing for over three months. During this period, the Spirit Blood Sect cultivators lurking in the shadows had likely acquired many Blood Spirit Pills.


    Fang Chen nced at the ravagedndscape with a sigh. At times, the Spirit Blood Sect¡¯s methods could be seen as a form of open conspiracy. Even if the participants were aware of their schemes, they couldn''t do anything to stop it unless a powerful, irresistible external force intervened.


    "Who are you? Are you a spy from the Langya n?"


    Suddenly, dozens of cultivators flew in from the air, surrounding Fang Chen. The leader among them looked quite disheveled. He had several wounds still seeping with lingering spiritual energy, preventing him from healing quickly.


    Their eyes were clouded with nothing but killing intent, possibly due to the madness caused by the ongoing conflict.


    ¡°Fang Chen of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect. Are you cultivators from the Parting Fiery Dao Sect?¡± Fang Chen asked calmly.


    The group of cultivators'' expressions softened slightly. ¡°Grand Thousand Dao Sect?¡±


    The leader, whose voice was hoarse, responded, ¡°We are from the Purple Mist Association. We are not affiliated with the Dao Sects, but like the Grand Thousand Dao Sect, we are working to defend this territory.¡±


    This was Fang Chen¡¯s first time hearing of the Purple Mist Association. Seeing that they were aware of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect''s cooperation with the Parting Fiery Dao Sect, he inquired about the whereabouts of Pei Qingfeng and others.


    ¡°Senior Pei... He might have already perished unless the Langya n decided to leave some survivors,¡± the leader said with a strange expression, his eyes flickering.


    Fang Chen frowned slightly. ¡°What do you mean by that?¡±


    ¡°Just a few days ago, along with Senior Pei and several Golden Core Realm experts, we were coordinating with the Parting Fiery Dao Sect¡¯s young master to ambush a particrly important Golden Core Realm cultivator from the Langya n.


    ¡°The enemy was already aware of our ns and had prepared in advance. As a result, we lost one Golden Core Realm cultivator in that battle. When the young master led us in retreat, Senior Pei stayed behind to hold off the enemy. We are unsure of his fate.¡±


    The man paused, staring at Fang Chen curiously. ¡°Are you Senior Pei¡¯s disciple? His disciple surnamed Li is also in a difficult situation. The young master imed he was a spy. If you wish to see him, you should hurry to the Parting Fiery Dao Sect.¡±


    ¡°Daoist Li will be executed in a few days,¡± the leader added.


    ¡°We absolutely do not believe he is a spy. However, it was indeed strange that Daoist Li seemed to know that the young master¡¯s ambush would fail,¡± the leader remarked.


    ¡°How about the other cultivators from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect? Are they also at the Parting Fiery Dao Sect?¡± Fang Chen inquired.


    ¡°They have scattered. After all, military orders are strict,¡± the leader said with a hint of dissatisfaction. ¡°If you must head to the Parting Fiery Dao Sect, you should hurry. We have other tasks so we will take our leave.¡±


    Fang Chen nodded slightly and continued toward the Parting Fiery Dao Sect. Along the way, he encountered several checkpoints. These checkpoints were manned by Golden Core cultivators. The situation seemed quite severe.


    Several dayster, an immortal mountain appeared on the horizon. This was the property of the Parting Fiery Dao Sect, enveloped in a dense spiritual mist that nearly shrouded the entire mountain. The Parting Fiery Dao Sect was not weak in the Azure Dao Manor; they had an Enlightenment Realm ancestor stationed here. It was quite normal for them to possess such a blessednd.


    At the foot of the mountain, a few cultivators conducted routine questioning of Fang Chen. Upon learning that Fang Chen was from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect, they promptly summoned a Qi Refining cultivator. This Qi Refining cultivator was an inner disciple of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect and seemed to be one of Guan¡¯e¡¯s disciples.


    Upon seeing Fang Chen¡¯s face, he was immediately surprised and called out ¡°Ancestor.¡±


    The cultivators stationed looked at Fang Chen.


    ¡°An ancestor? It turns out he¡¯s not an ordinary person.¡±


    However, their eyes held no respect¡ªonly a hint of derision.


    Fang Chen observed the Qi Refining Realm cultivator kneeling in front of him. The cultivator''s left arm was severed and roughly bandaged. He also had several injuries that couldn¡¯t heal, with residual spiritual energy indicating that these wounds were from a fight with Foundation Building Realm cultivators.


    ¡°Why are you in such a state? Why haven¡¯t you treated your injuries?¡± Fang Chen asked lightly.


    This was not the front line; the injured should have received proper medical attention to prevent their condition from worsening.


    Liu Dong¡¯s eyes were red.


    Before he could speak, one of the disciples guarding the mountainzily responded, ¡°These minor injuries don¡¯t need treatment. The entire Parting Fiery Dao Sect is very busy right now. There are no Foundation Building Realm cultivators avable to help.¡±


    ¡°Ancestor, Martial Uncle is in trouble,¡± Liu Dong said in a low voice.

 Chapter 618: Take Him

    <h4>Chapter 618: Take Him </h4>


    ¡°Indeed, you wouldn¡¯t be here just for this matter, would you? Your sect, the Grand Thousand Dao Sect, is infested with traitors. Not only will that person named Li be sentenced to death, but I suspect all of you as well. Although the young master hasn¡¯t said anything yet, I guess that in a few days, all of you will be summoned for questioning.¡±


    The disciple guarding the mountain said triumphantly, ¡°Aren¡¯t you supposed to be a righteous Dao Sect? How can a righteous Dao Sect have traitors?¡±


    Liu Dong red at him angrily. ¡°Our ancestor¡¯s fate in that battle is still unknown. What right do you have to dere that Martial Uncle Li is a traitor?¡±


    ¡°Oh! Now that you have backing, you don¡¯t regard me anymore? Don¡¯t forget how you begged me to get you some healing pills. Have you forgotten how you were practically groveling?¡± The disciple raised his voice, mocking Liu Dong. ¡°You¡¯re just a small fry; whether your ancestor is dead or alive is uncertain. Maybe it¡¯s a ploy to divert suspicion, or perhaps he¡¯s been implicated by that guy surnamed Li.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re taking advantage of the situation! A mid-grade, yellow-rank White Dew Pill should cost forty low-grade spirit stones, but you¡¯re charging me two hundred! You¡¯re clearly robbing us!¡± Liu Dong barked in agitation. ¡°Elder Xu was injured in battle, and now you¡¯re not only withholding the allocated White Dew Pills but also gouging us!¡±


    ¡°Surnamed Liu, enough of this. There are some things you shouldn¡¯t say. Be careful, or you might not find even your ashes after you leave this ce,¡± the disciple warned with a threatening tone.


    The mountain-guarding disciple''s face darkened immediately. He nced sideways at Fang Chen and sneered. ¡°Don¡¯t think that having an ancestor from your sect will back you up. Didn¡¯t you see what happened to Pei Qingfeng? At this time, even Golden Core Realm cultivators are like ants. If you follow our orders from the Parting Fiery Dao Gate, you might still have a chance to survive. Otherwise, <i>heh</i>...¡±


    ¡°Continue. What will happen if we don¡¯t follow your sect¡¯s orders?¡± Fang Chen asked calmly.


    That disciple smirked. ¡°You know very well.¡±


    Fang Chen pped the disciple across the face, sending him spinning in ce for several circles before he regained his senses. The disciple, stunned,covered his bruised cheek. ¡°You...!¡±


    ¡°Go on. If we don¡¯t obey the Parting Fiery Sect, what will happen?¡± Fang Chen said indifferently.


    The disciple, having no other choice, let out a long howl. Momentster, dozens of cultivators appeared, led by a Foundation Building Realm cultivator.


    The leader of the Foundation Building Realm cultivators frowned, his gaze shifting between Fang Chen and Liu Dong. ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    When he noticed the mountain¡¯s watchman''s swollen face and bleeding mouth, his expression turned grim. A trace of killing intent emanated from him.


    ¡°Fourth Uncle, this person is from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect. He baselessly used our sect of wrongdoing. When I tried to argue with him, he struck me!¡± the disciple said in fury.


    ¡°Seize him,¡± the Foundation Building Realm leadermanded coldly.


    As soon as the leader¡¯s words fell, Fang Chen pped him, sending him flying a hundred meters away.


    The surrounding dozen or so Qi Refining Realm cultivators exchanged looks, their faces gradually showing shock and anger.


    They did not act, as it was clear that the opponent¡¯s strength was above Foundation Building.


    ¡°Fourth Uncle!¡±


    The mountain¡¯s watchman cried out in rm. Before he could make a move, his vision went dark, and he too was sent crashing to the ground beside the Foundation Building Realm leader, both appearing lifeless. However, their chests still rose and fell.


    ¡°You... Are you here to attack our sect?¡± one of the Qi Refining disciples mustered his courage and asked.


    Ignoring him, Fang Chen turned to Liu Dong. ¡°Where is Elder Xu now? How many people are here? Lead the way.¡±


    ¡°A-Ancestor, follow me.¡± Liu Dong finally snapped out of his daze, feeling a surge of relief but also some anxiety.


    However, he gritted his teeth, deciding not to care any longer. It had been too frustrating recently, and he couldn¡¯t tolerate it any longer!


    Seeing that the two of them had already ascended the mountain gate, the Qi Refining Realm disciples hesitated before making any move to stop them. It was only after the two had disappeared from sight that one of them shouted angrily, ¡°Why aren¡¯t you stopping them!¡±


    After saying that, he rushed over to check on the mountain watchman and the Foundation Building Realm leader, trying to rouse them.


    After a few breaths, the two regained consciousness, their expressions bewildered.


    ¡°Why am I in my bedroom?¡±


    The Foundation Building Realm leader was dazed for a moment. However, he quickly snapped out of it. He saw arge face leaning down close to him and pped the person in a fit of rage.


    It wasn¡¯t until the person, with a wronged expression, came forward to recount what had happened that the leader realized he had been knocked out when he ordered the capture of Fang Chen.


    ¡°It¡¯s a Golden Core! It must be a Golden Core; only a Golden Core could defeat me so easily!¡±


    The Foundation Building Realm leader rubbed his face and clenched his teeth. His eyes were filled with anger and shame. The fact that he was briefly knocked unconscious by his opponent was a tremendous humiliation.


    Realizing that Fang Chen and Liu Dong had already scaled the mountain, he scowled and looked toward the mountain top. ¡°They¡¯ve gone up the mountain? They truly aren¡¯t afraid of death. Send a few people to notify the sect leader. As for the rest of you,e with me to stop this intruder!¡±


    Most of the Qi Refining Realm disciples immediately dispersed, leaving only the leader¡¯s trusted subordinates behind. The Foundation Building Realm leader, furious and pale, couldn¡¯t believe so many would flee at the mention of sending a message.


    ¡°Cowards! Even on our own turf, you show such fear. What future can you expect?¡± he scolded angrily.


    He quickly led his dazed nephew and the remaining Qi Refining Realm disciples to pursue Fang Chen.


    ***


    The air was filled with a faint, unpleasant stench. Here, there were hundreds of makeshift wooden shelters. They resembled more like barns for livestock rather than proper houses, with gaps in the wooden boards allowing one to catch glimpses of the inside.


    Each shelter was almost entirely upied, with upants showing varying degrees of dazed expressions and pallor, all bearing numerous injuries. The foul odor emanated from the wounds that had not healed for a long time.


    ¡°Ancestor, if we survive the front lines, we¡¯ll have the chance to return here to recover for seven days. After those seven days, we¡¯ll be expected to continue following the Parting Fiery Dao Sect¡¯s orders and fight against the Langya n¡¯s cultivators.¡±


    Liu Dong whispered, ¡°Originally, the seven-day period was enough for us to heal, especially with the supply of healing pills from the Qin n. But those pills have beenpletely hoarded. We can only get them at exorbitant prices, and only those with connections can buy them at lower prices.¡±


    ¡°Since the war between the Immortal Qin n and Langya n began, the prices of pills have skyrocketed.¡±


    ¡°The mid-grade, yellow-rank healing pill, White Dew Pill, used cost only forty spirit stones. You can¡¯t even buy it at double the price right now.


    ¡°These were pills distributed by the Qin n, yet these scoundrels of the Parting Fiery Dao Sect are selling them to us at five times the price. They didn¡¯t spend a single spirit stone and are living in luxury!¡±


    As he spoke, Liu Dong led Fang Chen to a wooden shelter. Just as they arrived, the shelter¡¯s door was smashed open, and a figure rolled out,nding right at Fang Chen''s feet.


    ¡°Daoist, please don¡¯t misunderstand. I didn¡¯t know you were outside,¡± said a burly cultivator from inside the shelter, smiling at Fang Chen.


    Fang Chen looked down and saw Elder Xu¡¯s face, pale and dazed.


    <i>How has he been tortured to such a degree in just a few months?</i>

 Chapter 619: Am I Late?

    ¡°Elder Xu!¡±


    Liu Dong immediately crouched down and helped Elder Xu up. Upon discovering the severity of Elder Xu¡¯s injuries and the presence of fresh wounds, he trembled with anger. He furiously red at the burly cultivator.


    ¡°Oh? You¡¯re from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect too?¡±


    The burly cultivator chuckled and kept scrutinizing Fang Chen. Noticing Fang Chen was uninjured, he seemed puzzled.


    ¡°Who are you? Howe you¡¯re mingling with the Grand Thousand Dao Sect? They¡¯re traitors, colluding with the Langya n and engaged in nefarious activities.¡±


    At the same time, other cultivators from the Grand Thousand Dao Sect in nearby shelters rushed over, looking like defeated soldiers, thoroughly disheveled.


    The burly cultivator didn¡¯t mind. He paid no attention to the crowd of Grand Thousand Dao Sect cultivators. Seeing themotion, other nearby cultivators stood up and approached, their eyes full of ill intent.


    Fang Chen realized that the Parting Fiery Dao Gate had no intention of aiding the Qin n. They just wanted to leech from the situation. In military campaigns, officers always saw battles as opportunities to gain merit and personal advantage.


    If it were otherwise, the management here wouldn¡¯t be so neglectful. They would have addressed the situation and provided healing to their injured cultivators. Instead, they were focused on extracting more value from the cultivators, rather than allowing them to create value on the battlefield.For instance, Elder Xu and Liu Dong¡¯s injuries could have been easily healed by any Golden Core Realm cultivator.


    ¡°I-Is it the ancestor¡­¡± asked one of the Grand Thousand Dao Sect cultivators in uncertainty.


    His eyes were nk and somewhat dazed. These Grand Thousand Dao Sect disciples, who had only seen Fang Chen once or twice, were mentally and physically exhausted from their ordeal. Their thoughts were clouded, and they couldn¡¯t confirm who was standing before them.


    ¡°It¡¯s the ancestor!¡± answered Liu Dong through clenched teeth. ¡°We don¡¯t need to stay here and allow ourselves to be mistreated anymore. Prepare yourselves to fight! We are leaving this ce with the ancestor.¡±


    Elder Xu¡¯s previously dazed gaze suddenly focused. ¡°Senior Martial Uncle?¡±


    Upon confirming it was indeed Fang Chen, his face reflected a mix of shame, anger, and grievance.


    ¡°Alright, you don¡¯t need to say anything. I¡¯ve heard about your situation,¡± Fang Chen said, nodding.


    He waved his sleeve, and streams of spiritual energy fell on them, expelling the residual spiritual energy in their wounds. Now that this parasitic spiritual energy had been dispelled, their wounds would heal.


    Seeing Fang Chen easily cure the injuries of Liu Dong and others, the cultivators who had been preparing to encircle them hesitated. They decided to observe first.


    The burly cultivator was momentarily stunned, and a flicker of fear appeared in his eye. He subtly took a few steps and looked around, trying to assess if he¡¯d be getting any backup.


    Fang Chen pointed at the burly cultivator. ¡°Elder Xu, who is he?¡±


    Elder Xu slowly stood up and red at the burly man with clenched teeth and a murderous gleam in his eyes. ¡°He¡¯s a cultivator from the Yunchuan Sect.¡±  ?


    ¡°Yo-you better not overstep. This is the Parting Fiery Dao Sect, not the Grand Thousand Dao Sect.¡±


    Despite the burly cultivator''s earlier bravado, he was now speaking with a sliver of fear. ¡°No matter who you are to them, remember that this ce is under the jurisdiction of the Parting Fiery Dao Sect. It¡¯s not a ce for you to cause trouble. Even your Golden Core Realm cultivator, Pei Qingfeng, fell because of this.¡±


    Seeing Fang Chen remain silent, the burly cultivator grew increasingly nervous and continued in a more subdued tone, ¡°I merely questioned Elder Xu about his association with the traitors. I might have been a bit rough, but I wouldn¡¯t be able to drag things out of him otherwise; it¡¯s only human nature.¡±


    At this moment, the Foundation Building Realm cultivator who had been knocked unconscious by Fang Chen earlier arrived. He stood at a distance, ring at Fang Chen and shouting, ¡°Thief, cease your arrogance in our sect! I have reported to the elders, and they wille to suppress you soon!¡±


    Having found support, the burly cultivator grew reassured and boldly pointed at Fang Chen. ¡°Daoist Miao, you¡¯ve arrived just in time. The Grand Thousand Dao Sect cultivators n to cooperate with this person to break out of here. They¡¯re all traitors!¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re nning to escape our sect? Hahaha, you¡¯re walking a dead end!¡±


    Deacon Miao sneered in rage. ¡°In these times, betraying our sect means betraying the Qin Family. Even without the Qin Family intervening, you will face a gruesome end for offending our ancestor!¡±


    Fang Chen ignored him. ¡°Elder Xu, aside from those dispatched elsewhere, are all the sect disciples still here?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s still Junior Brother Li,¡± Elder Xu said quietly. ¡°The rest are all here.¡±


    Elder Xu¡¯s eyes suddenly reddened, and his voice choked with emotion, ¡°Ancestor, he¡­.¡±


    ¡°Even if he is missing, there¡¯s no need to mourn for him just yet. He may not have died,¡± Fang Chen said, shaking his head.


    He turned to Elder Miao and asked, ¡°Why haven¡¯t the elders you mentioned arrived yet?¡±


    ¡°Have I arrivedte?¡±


    Before Elder Miao could speak, an old Daoist with an immortal demeanor descended from the sky, standing on a green bamboo flute.


    Fang Chen frowned slightly. ¡°Since your magical tool is a flute, why do you tread on it like a flying sword? Wouldn¡¯t you need to clean it when you y?¡±


    The old Daoist, about tond before everyone, seemed momentarily thrown off by Fang Chen¡¯sment and almost lost his bnce.


    ¡°Elder Huo, that¡¯s him,¡± Elder Miao said as he stood forward respectfully.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Elder Huo nodded slightly, ying with the bamboo flute in his hand.


    After a few moments, he looked at Fang Chen and asked, ¡°Are you a Golden Core Realm cultivator? To my knowledge, the Grand Thousand Dao Sect only has one Golden Core Realm cultivator. Did you join them halfway?¡±


    ¡°You could say that,¡± Fang Chen replied, nodding. ¡°Can you call the shots in the Parting Fiery Dao Sect? Why haven¡¯t you called out your Nascent Soul Realm and Enlightenment Realm ancestors?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s preposterous. What kind of figures are those two ancestors? Their cultivation time is extremely precious. Why would they leave their seclusion for someone like you?¡± Elder Huo scoffed. ¡°The sect master has heard that someone is causing trouble in the Parting Fiery Dao Sect and sent me to deal with it. Do you wish to kneel and apologize yourself, or shall I take action?¡±


    Elder Xu and the others wore expressions of mockery. They knew that as long as the ck and white paper figure made an appearance, Elder Huo would end up dying in humiliation.


    Seeing Fang Chen remain silent, Elder Huo couldn¡¯t help but chuckle again, bringing the bamboo flute to his lips.


    At that moment, Fang Chen''s figure vanished from his original position and appeared directly in front of Elder Huo before delivering a light p. With a soft ¡°puff,¡± the bamboo flute pierced through Elder Huo¡¯s throat and emerged from the back of his head.


    Elder Huo¡¯s face was filled with shock. ¡°You...¡±


    Fang Chen remained expressionless. With a swift motion, he pped Elder Huo¡¯s shoulder, shattering his upper body to bits and pieces. Elder Huo¡¯s lower half slumped down.


    Fang Chen turned to Elder Miao. ¡°Calling just the elders out isn¡¯t enough for me. Get your Nascent Soul and Enlightenment Realm ancestors toe out.¡±


    A chill raced down Elder Miao''s spine, his skin pimpling with goosebumps. He stood still for a while, dumbfounded and tongue-tied.

 Chapter 620: A Satisfactory Explanation?

    ¡°Impossible¡­. Elder Huo is a Golden Core Realm cultivator. How could he die so easily¡­.¡±


    ¡°Golden Core Realm cultivators vary in strength. I heard Elder Huo was only at the early Golden Core Realm. This Grand Thousand Dao Sect ancestor might be at the mid-stage Golden Core Realm.¡±


    ¡°Even if he¡¯s strong, what¡¯s the use? Challenging the Parting Fiery Dao Sect is one thing, but if the Nascent Soul Realm ancestor or even the Enlightment Realm ancestor steps in, it¡¯s a whole different story.¡±


    The thousands of cultivators around whispered among themselves or used Transmission Talismans, their eyes constantly shifting toward Fang Chen with shock and mockery. They had seen Golden Core Realm cultivators often and even witnessed some fall. What was once considered an unreachable existence now seemed less impressive.


    The burly-faced cultivator gasped and shrank to the back of the crowd, his eyes filled with horror.


    <em>What¡¯s going on? The Grand Thousand Dao Sect actually has another Golden Core Realm ancestor besides Pei Qingfeng? One who¡¯s even so ruthless?</em>


    This was the Parting Fiery Dao Sect. Furthermore, it had even aligned itself with the Qin Family to resist the Langya n. Its status and influence had increased significantly. Any action could be tied to the Qin Family as a reason.


    Regardless of a cultivator¡¯s origin, anyone who dared to resist would bebeled a traitor and subject to punishment from the Qin Family. In this environment, publicly injuring a Golden Core from the Parting Fiery Dao Sect was tantamount to dering war against both the Qin Family and the Parting Fiery Dao Sect!


    ¡°Elder Fang, it turns out that your cultivation is so high! It is not any weaker than Ancestor Pei¡¯s!¡±The Grand Thousand Dao Sect¡¯s Qi Refining disciples were astonished.


    Elder Xu gasped. He had always thought that Fang Chen was strong because he relied on the ck and white paper figures. However, it now seemed that his own cultivation was extremely high as well.


    <em>A Golden Core cultivator died just like that¡­.</em>


    ¡°Haha¡ª¡±


    Elder Huo made a strange, wheezing noise. He was trying to speak, but he couldn¡¯tplete a single sentence because the flute was piercing through his throat. It had even injured his brain.


    Fang Chen nced at him before turning his attention to Elder Miao. ¡°What are you waiting for? He can¡¯tst much longer in this condition. Even if he¡¯s a Golden Core Realm cultivator, if he doesn¡¯t receive treatment, he¡¯ll die within half a day.¡±


    Elder Miao¡¯s face turned pale. ¡°Y-yes¡­¡±


    He immediately took out a Transmission Talisman and ignited it.


    He cautiously said, ¡°I can only send messages to some colleagues and a few elders. As for the ancestors¡­ I don¡¯t have the right to contact them¡­.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. Your ancestors areing.¡±


    Fang Chen smiled lightly and slowly looked toward the depths of the Immortal Mountain. Activating his Primordial Immortal Eyes, he could see a presence stronger than a Golden Core Cultivator approaching.


    Elder Mao was visibly surprised. ¡°The ancestor ising out?¡±


    He quickly toned down his expression, afraid of provoking the person in front of him.


    <em>A gentleman does not stand under a crumbling wall!</em>


    Not only was the presence suspected to be of the Nascent Soul Realm, but there were also many other presences of simr strength to Elder Huo¡¯sing in their direction.


    About five or six breathster, seven Golden Core Realm cultivators appeared one after another. Their auras varied, with some matching Elder Huo while others surpassed it.


    When these Golden Core Realm cultivators saw Elder Huo¡¯s state, they merely cast cold, appraising looks at Fang Chen. They didn¡¯t approach, seemingly waiting for something. ?


    With the arrival of these Golden Core Realm cultivators, tension in the air gged considerably. Elder Miao also eased up a little.


    Elder Huo¡¯s pale face began to recover a bit. He anxiously looked at his colleagues, signaling them to take action and save him.


    Elder Xu and the others felt a subconscious tremor in their hearts but found reassurance in Fang Chen¡¯s formidable abilities. After all, if the ck and white paper figure were involved, would this group of Golden Core Realm cultivators be enough to pose a threat?


    The tense atmosphere waspletely shattered when a young man arrived. The surrounding Golden Core Realm elders and Elder Miao showed slight excitement, cupping their hands in respect. ¡°We pay our respects to Ancestor!¡±


    <em>Is this the Nascent Soul or the Enlightenment Realm ancestor?</em>


    The cultivators around were visibly awed, their expressions shifting as they spected about the young man''s identity.


    The burly-faced cultivator let out a sigh of relief; with the ancestor of the Parting Fiery Dao Sect appearing, the matter seemed to have reached its conclusion.


    The young man nodded lightly, seemingly indifferent as he gazed at Fang Chen. After a moment, he noticed that Fang Chen¡¯s aura waspletely inscrutable, making it impossible to discern his cultivation level. His gaze then shifted to Elder Huo. Seeing his pitiful condition, he let out a softugh.


    ¡°You have been at the Parting Fiery Dao Sect for too long and have growncent. You think there are no real experts in the world. Now, do you finally believe there are always higher mountains?¡±


    The people around grew puzzled, and they exchanged nces with one another.


    The young man looked at Fang Chen again and said with a faint smile, ¡°What is your rtionship with the Grand Thousand Dao Sect? Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re their disciple. Although the sect did have a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator who has long been missing, I have met Hong Qing a few times, and you are not him.¡±


    The people around were horrified.


    ¡°Nascent Soul!¡±


    Judging from the words of the Parting Fiery Dao Sect ancestor, it was clear that he believed the Grand Thousand Dao Sect¡¯s representative was also a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator!


    That was the pinnacle that ordinary cultivators could only look up to. For them, the distance between the Middle Three Realms and the Upper Three Realms was too distant toprehend.


    Elder Xu was stunned. ¡°Martial Uncle Fang is a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator?¡±


    If that were the case, would he still be a disciple of Elder Hong Qing?


    ¡°You wished to see me?¡±


    Seeing Fang Chen silent, the young man continued, ¡°I rarelye out of seclusion, and you remain silent. Is there a reason for this? Or are you afraid? Yes, you should be afraid. After all, you¡¯vee to my sect and injured our Golden Core Realm cultivator. Surely, you should give some exnation.¡±


    Fang Chen looked at the young man with his gray-white eyes and replied with a faint smile, ¡°Yes, your sect does owe the Grand Thousand Dao Sect an exnation. You had our disciples fight bravely for you, yet you ignored their injuries and even hoarded the pills the Qin Family provided. If you don¡¯t provide a clear exnation, today will mark the end of the Parting Fiery Dao Sect.¡±


    The young man was momentarily stunned. A strange smile soon appeared on his face.


    Just as he was about to speak, Fang Chen interrupted him. ¡°Before you speak, think carefully. Once the words are out, there¡¯s no turning back.¡±


    The young man¡¯s expression shifted slightly. The casual demeanor he previously had vanished, reced by a serious look. Fang Chen seemed to have a lot of confidence, showing no fear of him.


    The Golden Core Realm cultivators of the Parting Fiery Dao Sect red with anger, their spiritual energy surging, ready to act at any moment. Even if the Nascent Soul Realm cultivator was formidable, they believed that with theirbined strength, they could leave some injuries on a Nascent Soul Realm cultivator.


    ¡°Fine, since you are standing up for them, I will give you face.¡± The young man nodded and nced at one of the Golden Core Realm cultivators. ¡°Sect Leader Zhang, deliver the White Dew Pills they deserve.¡±


    The Golden Core Realm cultivators were slightly surprised, their expressions bing somewhat unpleasant. However, they dared not disobey the Nascent Soul Realm cultivator¡¯s order.


    Sect Leader Zhang¡¯s face darkened. He whispered to Elder Miao, seemingly inquiring about how many White Dew Pill should be given to Elder Xu and the others. After receiving the information, he produced two bottles of White Dew Pill and handed them to Fang Chen.


    ¡°Here is the White Dew Pill you requested. Is this satisfactory? If so, we should discuss what you will offer in return,¡± the young man said with a smile.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!